California Baptist University
Reach the highest level of leadership education with a PhD in Leadership Studies from CBU. This program is designed for individuals who want to make learning and leading their lifelong purpose. Graduates will attain the theoretical, scientific and practical knowledge for effective, ethical and transformational leadership.
Beginning with the end in mind¹
One of doctoral students’ greatest fears is failure to complete their dissertation.
CBU understands that concern and designed the PhD in Leadership Studies so that you
can complete your coursework and dissertation in the summer following your third year.
You are assigned a faculty mentor on day-one of the program and immediately begin
the process of writing your research question. With faculty support throughout the
program, CBU provides the road map for you to develop and successfully defend your
dissertation – on time.
Creating a community of scholars
As a Christian university, CBU values community in life and in higher education.
You are admitted as part of an interdisciplinary cohort and begin developing your
academic community as you participate in a 5-day residence experience during the first
semester of the program and in each subsequent summer. Taking place in late June at
the California Baptist University campus, the summer residence provides you the opportunity
to engage in seminar-based learning opportunities with your cohort, program faculty
and other leadership professionals.
Emphasizing a distinctly Christian worldview
CBU recognizes the need for leaders equipped with biblically-based ethical principles
and practices which emphasize character, courage and wisdom as integral elements within
effective leadership.
Focus your learning into your passion
With twelve elective units built into the program, you can choose specific graduate-level
courses from within CBU’s campus-based or online course catalog which are relevant
to your profession or passion.
¹Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" by Steven Covey.
This course evaluates the sociological and cultural aspects associated organizational life and one’s own personal and professional development.
Students will evaluate common reasoning fallacies and biases that make for flawed decisions and develop more robust and creative decision making strategies and processes that meet the needs of the situation.
This course evaluates various ethical frameworks and worldviews with an emphasis on the Christian worldview in order to promote ethical and virtuous leaders.
SLO 1: Candidates will demonstrate expertise in leadership and organizational strategies
and practices.
SLO 2: Candidates will demonstrate expertise in research.
SLO 3: Candidates will demonstrate expertise in transformational servant leadership.
SLO 4: Candidates will demonstrate ability to manage complex institutional environments.
SLO 5: Candidates will demonstrate the ability to facilitate strategic change.
SLO 6: Candidates will demonstrate the ability to make and implement creative and
wise decisions.
1. How long will the program take?
Students complete 58 semester units. The program is designed for students to complete
the course and dissertation requirements in three years or ten continuous semesters
of study. Students have the option for additional time to complete their dissertation
if necessary.
2. What will this degree do for me?
The doctorate in leadership studies is an excellent choice for those with relevant
work experience seeking senior leadership positions in a variety of professional and
academic communities.
3. Is there a minimum GPA to stay in the program?
Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA to remain in the program.
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadline | Fall |
| Extended | August 1 |
I am a native from Minnesota. I grew up on the Mississippi river and had what could easily be called a Tom Sawyer-like childhood. One day my wife observed how much I enjoyed working with ideas and students, so she suggested a career in teaching. It was like a light bulb went off. I have been working in education for over 20 years and have learned that developing leaders and teachers has an exponential effect on improving the quality of people's lives.
I discovered my passion for teaching while serving as an instructor in the US Army. After graduating from UCR with a PhD in political science, I have shared my passion for political science with college students for over two decades.
I worked in the information technology field before I entered the teaching profession as a response to the Lord's calling. I felt called to share my 25+ years of experience and insight to help students succeed. If you demonstrate leadership, dedication and kindness amongst others, students are more likely to imitate your behavior.
I am a native from Minnesota. I grew up on the Mississippi river and had what could easily be called a Tom Sawyer-like childhood. One day my wife observed how much I enjoyed working with ideas and students, so she suggested a career in teaching. It was like a light bulb went off. I have been working in education for over 20 years and have learned that developing leaders and teachers has an exponential effect on improving the quality of people's lives.
I discovered my passion for teaching while serving as an instructor in the US Army. After graduating from UCR with a PhD in political science, I have shared my passion for political science with college students for over two decades.
I worked in the information technology field before I entered the teaching profession as a response to the Lord's calling. I felt called to share my 25+ years of experience and insight to help students succeed. If you demonstrate leadership, dedication and kindness amongst others, students are more likely to imitate your behavior.
8432 Magnolia Avenue
Riverside, CA 92504
For questions about the PhD in Leadership Studies program,
contact John Shoup at jshoup@calbaptist.edu.
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