Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies (LEST) program at N.C. A&T State University – America's largest HBCU – is an interdisciplinary doctoral program designed for people who desire to lead and conduct social and behavioral sciences research in the field of leadership. The emerging interdisciplinary field of leadership studies covers a wide range of academic disciplines such as psychology, sociology, history, political science and religious studies, to name a few. Our students come from diverse professional backgrounds such as business, engineering, law, industry, education, healthcare, the military and community-based organizations. 

The intellectual climate of the program is enhanced through (a) networking in the academy and (b) our partnerships and community networks. These bring real-time academic, economic, political and social justice issues to campus and provide intentional connections for students in community-based initiatives grounded in scholarship and engagement principles. LEST’s goal is to produce leader-scholars who are critical thinkers and models of engaging and successful leadership.

Potential Careers

• Secondary Educator
• Post-Secondary Educator
• Researcher
• Consultant

Admission Requirements

The following are needed to be eligible to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Leadership Studies:

• A master’s degree with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 from a college or university recognized by a regional or general accrediting agency.
• Interest in conducting research in leadership studies.
• Additionally, applicants must have at least 5-plus years of experience in a leadership, supervisory or administrative management capacity in their respective fields or organization (see the leadership profile document).
• A completed Graduate Record Exam (GRE) general test, or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT), or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) as applicable to the discipline area of the student. (Applicant scores must be within the last 5 years).
• An applicant with their highest degree from a non-English-speaking country is required to complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination and obtain a score of 600 or higher on the written examination or 250 or higher on the computer examination.
• Three (3) letters of recommendation from people who can speak to your likelihood of success in the doctoral program; at least one must be from a former professor or a supervisor (preferably someone who has supervised your work or academic performance, and a peer that is familiar with your intellectual abilities, leadership qualities, and organizational performance).
• Writing sample (two pages and double-spaced) "Statement of Purpose" explaining the reason for pursuing the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Leadership Studies and the professional work experience or research interest in leadership studies.
• Selected applicants are invited for individual interview by an Admission Committee as part of the admission requirements, prior to the recommendation for acceptance into the program.

Program Requirements

The LEST curriculum requirement includes a minimum of 54 hours beyond the master’s degree, with 44 hours of coursework and 12 hours for dissertation research. Additionally, students are expected to complete a 12-hour track in one of the following areas: (a) Higher Education and Community Colleges, (b) African American Leadership, (c) Transformative Leadership for Civic and Community Engagement, (d) Leadership for K-20 Diversity and Educational Justice or (e) Interdisciplinary Leadership Studies. LEST’s goal is to produce leader-scholars who are critical thinkers and facilitators of leadership committed to democratic engagement.

Explore the curriculum guide.