Leadership PhD programs prepare students to work in nearly any industry. Most often, students seeking a doctorate in leadership studies are interested in a career in academia, but it’s not the only option.
Because of its multidisciplinary nature, a leadership degree instills graduates with the listening, introspection and critical thinking skills required in a wide range of fields. Read on to learn more about how a PhD in Leadership will prepare you to drive innovation and foster positive change in your preferred profession and your community.
What are the Benefits of Studying Leadership?
Leadership PhD programs are designed to give candidates the skills, theoretical frameworks and hands-on practice necessary to positively impact organizations and communities. As an academic field, leadership studies draws upon theories and applications from psychology, political science, sociology and management to better understand the qualities and nature of leadership.
This multidisciplinary approach prepares students to be effective leaders in many industries, including government, research and analytics, training and development, consulting, academia and more.
What Career Can I Have With a PhD in Leadership Studies?
A doctorate degree in leadership studies instills graduates with the listening, introspection, emotional intelligence and critical thinking skills necessary for success in a wide range of fields. Students emerge from a leadership PhD program prepared to address problems, seize opportunities, drive innovation and foster positive change.
A PhD in Leadership Studies prepares graduates for a variety of careers, including:
- CEO
- Superintendent of a School District
- Chief of Police
- Leadership Consultant
- Chief of Staff
- Professor
- College President
- Dean of Students
- Foundation President
- Education Researcher
- Human Resources Management
Use the chart below to compare the skills, salary and work environment of potential careers for individuals with a PhD in Leadership Studies.
| University Professor | School Principal | CEO | |
| Mean Annual Salary (2021) | $79,640 | $98,420 | $179,520 |
| Key Skills | Critical thinking, resourcefulness, interpersonal skills, speaking and writing skills. | Communication, critical thinking, decision making, interpersonal, leadership and problem-solving skills. | Communication, decision making, leadership, time management and problem-solving skills. |
| Work Environment | Post-secondary educators may work in colleges, universities, professional schools and junior colleges. | Elementary and secondary school principles oversee all school operations, including daily school activities. | CEOs and other top executives work in nearly every industry for large and small organizations. Travel is common. |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Find Your Leadership Style in the Leadership PhD Program at USD SOLES
A doctorate in leadership is the perfect way to take your career to the next level — whether that’s by pursuing something new in academia or advancing to a leadership position within your industry or organization.
A PhD in leadership studies from USD SOLES will prepare you to become an ethical leader who drives meaningful change in your industry or community. The possibilities of what you can do with a PhD in leadership studies are nearly endless. After all, great leaders are needed everywhere.
If you’re ready to learn more about how you can become an effective leader and agent of change, our latest guide is for you. Download Inclusive Leadership for Social Change: A Guide to USD’s PhD in Leadership Studies today to learn more.
