Doctor of Professional Studies [DPS] in Strategic Leadership
An advanced doctorate focused on leadership, strategy, and organizational transformation.
Program Overview
The Doctor of Professional Studies in Strategic Leadership is a practitioner-focused terminal degree designed for senior professionals seeking to translate theory into practice. Unlike a PhD, the DPS emphasizes applied research and real-world strategic impact.
Who This Program Is For
This program is ideal for:
– senior leaders and executives
– managers transitioning into strategic leadership roles
– professionals responsible for organizational change
– individuals focused on leadership development and strategy
Key Highlights
– Doctoral-level qualification in leadership
– Focus on strategy and organizational effectiveness
– Designed for working professionals
– Flexible learning format
– Applied research or capstone project
What You Will Develop
Students develop advanced competencies in:
– strategic leadership
– organizational transformation
– decision-making in complex environments
– leadership communication and influence
– change management and innovation
Program Structure
The program combines:
– advanced coursework in leadership and strategy
– research methodology
– development of an applied research project
The final stage involves completing a project focused on a strategic or leadership challenge within an organization.
DSL vs DBA and DPS (this is critical)
While the DBA focuses on business and management and the DPS offers a broader interdisciplinary approach, the DSL is specifically designed for professionals focused on leadership, strategy, and organizational transformation.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of this program may pursue roles such as:
– executive leadership
– organizational strategy roles
– leadership consulting
– senior management and advisory positions
Admission Requirements
Applicants typically:
– hold a master’s degree
– have relevant professional experience
The world needs top-level leaders to take charge of companies, non-profits, and government agencies. Stand out from the rest with a doctoral degree that is geared toward making you a success.
Doctor of Professional Studies [DPS] in Strategic Leadership Curriculum
Core Courses
| Course ID | Course | Credits |
| DPS 701 | Advanced Professional Studies & Strategic Leadership Theory | 4 |
| DPS 702 | Organizational Transformation and Change Architecture | 4 |
| DPS 703 | Global Strategy, Professional Practice, and Competitive Intelligence | 4 |
| DPS 704 | Executive Decision-Making, Complexity, and Professional Judgment | 4 |
| DPS 705 | Strategic Innovation and Disruptive Leadership in Professional Contexts | 4 |
| Total Core Leadership & Strategy Units | 20 |
Research & Analytics Courses
| Course ID | Course | Credits |
| DPS 706 | Advanced Applied Research Methods for Professional Studies | 4 |
| DPS 707 | Strategic Foresight, Data Analytics, and Evidence-Based Practice | 4 |
| DPS 708 | Applied Statistical Analysis for Professional Research | 4 |
| Total Research & Analytics Units | 12 |
Advanced Professional Competencies
| Course ID | Course | Credits |
| DPS 709 | Professional Ethics, Culture, and Corporate Governance | 4 |
| DPS 710 | Strategic Financial Leadership and Enterprise Value Creation | 4 |
| DPS 711 | Executive Communication, Influence, and Negotiation | 4 |
| DPS 712 | Entrepreneurship, Digital Transformation, and Professional Consulting | 4 |
| Total Advanced Professional Competencies Unit | 16 |
Culminating Doctoral Project
| Course ID | Course | Credits |
| DPS 713 | Applied Doctoral Project in Professional Studies | 12 |
| Total Culminating Doctoral Project Units | 12 |
Summary
| Number of Course | Credits | |
| Master’s [MPS] | 10 | 40 |
| Doctorate [DPS] | 13 | 60 |
Applied research project addressing a complex, real-world challenge within the student’s profession/industry. Focus on practical solution, innovation, and professional impact with defense. May include organizational intervention, strategic plan, or consulting deliverable.
