St. Thomas University (FL)

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, methodological training and an independent research dissertation that explores complex ethical questions in leadership, organisations and public life. Students engage with classical and contemporary theories of moral reasoning, leadership ethics, social justice, and governance, with an emphasis on applying scholarship to real-world dilemmas.

• Core themes: Ethical theory and moral philosophy; leadership theory and practice; social justice and community engagement; organisational ethics; governance and accountability.
• Research methods: Qualitative methods (ethnography, case study, narrative inquiry), quantitative methods (applied statistics for social sciences), mixed-methods design, and advanced research design and ethics.
• Typical modules and seminars:
  • Foundations of Ethical Leadership
  • Philosophy of Ethics and Public Reasoning
  • Leadership, Power and Organisational Change
  • Research Design and Methods in Leadership Studies
  • Applied Ethics in Policy, Business and Non-Profit Contexts
  • Community-Engaged Scholarship and Social Justice
  • Doctoral Colloquium in Professional Development and Pedagogy
• Dissertation: Under the guidance of a supervisory committee, candidates produce a substantive original contribution to knowledge—typically an empirical or conceptual dissertation that addresses an ethical leadership challenge in a specific sector or context.
• Structure: The programme normally begins with a period of taught coursework and methods training, followed by comprehensive examinations and a sustained period of independent research leading to the dissertation. Opportunities exist for practicum placements, collaborative research with community partners, and conference presentations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant master’s degree (such as in leadership studies, philosophy/ethics, public administration, business, education, or a related social science) from an accredited institution. Selection is competitive and based on the strength of the academic record, research potential and fit with faculty expertise.

• Academic qualifications: A recognised master’s degree with evidence of strong academic performance.
• Research proposal: A clear statement of research interests and a preliminary proposal outlining research questions, theoretical framing and methodological approach.
• Supporting materials: Curriculum vitae, transcripts, and at least two academic or professional references.
• Additional requirements: An interview with potential supervisors is commonly required. Relevant professional experience in leadership, ethics, public service or related fields strengthens an application. Where English is not the applicant’s first language, proof of English-language proficiency is required.

Career prospects

Graduates from a PhD in Ethical Leadership pursue a range of careers that value deep expertise in ethics, research skills and leadership. The degree prepares candidates for roles in academia, research institutes and policy organisations, as well as senior positions in the public, private and non-profit sectors.

• University teaching and academic research in leadership, ethics, public policy or related fields.
• Senior leadership and executive roles in non-profit organisations, faith-based institutions and community development agencies.
• Ethics officer, compliance director or corporate social responsibility strategist in business and healthcare organisations.
• Policy analysis and advisory roles in government bodies, think tanks or international agencies.
• Consultancy and executive coaching focused on ethical decision-making, organisational integrity and leadership development.

Why study at St. Thomas University (FL)

St. Thomas University is a values-driven institution with a long-standing commitment to social justice and community engagement. The university’s location in the Miami metropolitan area provides a richly diverse social and cultural context for research into ethical leadership and public life.

• Faculty expertise: Supervisors bring interdisciplinary strengths across ethics, leadership studies, public policy and applied research, supporting both theoretical and practice-oriented projects.
• Community engagement: Strong ties to local organisations and a commitment to applied scholarship offer opportunities for practicum research and community-partnered projects.
• Small cohort mentoring: The doctoral programme emphasises close supervisory relationships, personalised professional development and opportunities to teach and present research.
• Professional networks: Students benefit from regional and national networks in ethics, higher education and civic leadership, helping to translate doctoral research into policy and practice.