“I commend you on taking this first step in the noble pursuit of a PhD in Leadership Studies! Our program is designed to equip you with scholarly perspectives to study, research, teach, as well as practice exemplary leadership in varied organizations and complex systems. Upon completion, you then join program alumni as thought leaders and field influencers serving throughout our dynamic world.”
Jason Kiker, PhD Program Director, PhD in Leadership Studies
Program Distinctives
Supportive, Full-Time, Interdisciplinary Faculty
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Students are assigned several scholar-mentors on day one of the program, immediately beginning their dissertation research and rigorous coursework with assurance.
Cohort-Based, Learner-Tailored
The high-energy engagement and HyFlex modality allow students to collaborate with like-minded scholar-practitioners across the globe in a grace-filled, learning climate.
Advance Virtuous Leadership
Supported by competitive conference funding as well as opportunities that support alumni and postdoctoral scholars, students are equipped with biblically based principles to think deeply and lead scholarship that matters.
Program Details at a Glance
Program Length
58 units
3–4+ years, full time (part-time option available)
Program Cost*
Program Start Term
$47,731–$49,006+ Fall (September)
$757 per unit
$425 per semester program fee
Class Format
Hybrid classes meet one night each week. Students have the option to attend inperson, synchronously online, or, with faculty coordination, asynchronously online.
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Accreditation
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Think deeply. Transformationally develop. Research what matters.
Advance virtuous leadership.
School of Business Highlight
The Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business at California Baptist University strives to provide students with a strong foundation in business principles, practical skills and ethical values to succeed in the dynamic and competitive business environment. The School of Business emphasizes experiential learning opportunities to enhance students’ practical skills and real-world understanding. Students have access to internships, cooperative education programs and networking events that connect them with local businesses and professionals. The School of Business has dedicated and experienced faculty who blend academic expertise with real-world business experience. Faculty members are committed to providing quality education and mentorship to students.
The Jabs School of Business prepares business professionals with business and technical acumen, soft skills and ethical grounding to successfully live out their purpose in the modern marketplace.
Faculty Spotlight
John Shoup, PhD Professor of Leadership Studies, Jabs School of Business
Dr. John Shoup teaches leadership and educational history and policy at the doctoral level and has conducted research and workshops on leadership development and best practices. Dr. Shoup has served as the founder and director of a leadership institute, a university dean, a middle and high school principal and a social worker in various service settings. He is an author and frequent presenter on topics related to leadership and education. He is the co-founder and long-time serving co-director of the Philosophy, Religion and Worldview Member Community with the International Leadership Association and the co-editor of a book series on the humanities and leadership with Routledge Press. Dr. Shoup has a PhD in Education with an emphasis on Educational Administration and Policy Studies from the University of California, Riverside. He also has a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois.
Admissions Requirements
Application for admission with a $45 application fee.
Official transcript from an accredited college or university reflecting the completion of a master’s degree.
Minimum 3.0 GPA cumulative or last 60/90 unit GPA. Additional opportunities may be available for a student to overcome an unsatisfactory GPA.
Professional essay addressing the following:
• Why do you want to study leadership at the PhD level, and what are your reason(s) for choosing a PhD program over other doctoral degree types in leadership studies such as an EdD, DMin or DPLS? Be sure to choose the other most applicable professional doctorate or doctorates based on your background and interests, and explicitly contrast your fit with those programs and the PhD in Leadership Studies.
• Identify a general area of interest(s) for your dissertation research, knowing it can change as you progress through the program.
Prerequisites
*Must be completed with a “C” or better grade within the first two semesters of the program.
Note: Competitive applications should inquire about voluntary and/or paid RA positions.
How to Apply
Provide any supplemental documents required. 01 02 03 Application
Submit a graduate application at calbaptist.edu/gradapp.
Send official college or university transcripts.
Deadlines
Fall Priority Standard May 15 August 1
Ready to take the next step? Follow this QR code to start your application!
Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business Graduate Admissions
