Andrews University

Programme overview

The Leadership offerings span a short graduate certificate through master's, practice doctoral and research doctoral options, plus a post-doctoral certificate. Programs are competency-designed, combine theory with practice, offer online delivery of all courses, and use Leadership and Learning Groups for peer support. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for fall, spring and summer.

What you'll study

Study emphases differ by credential:

• Graduate Certificate in Leadership — specialized leadership knowledge without completing a full master’s degree.
• MA in Leadership — development of personal mission and applied leadership skills to enhance current work, start projects, retool into management, or lead in community settings.
• MA in Leadership in Social Innovation — prepares students for socially impactful careers with collective-impact and mission-driven organizations, including Benefit Corporations (B Corps) that focus on people, planet and profit.
• Doctor of Leadership (DLeaD) — an innovative, flexible practice doctorate for mid-career leaders; culminates in a final doctoral project applying program principles to a practical change initiative.
• PhD in Leadership — a flexible research doctorate for mid-career academic leaders; culminates in a research-focused dissertation to develop both leadership and research capabilities.
• Post-Doctoral Certificate — advanced training for those who already hold a doctorate, with options in research, teaching, administration and practicums depending on senior faculty availability.

Program lengths and credit requirements as stated: Certificate — 12 credits (typically 1–2 years); MA — 36 credits (typically 2–3 years); DLeaD — 54 credits (typically 3–5 years); PhD — 60 credits (typically 5–7 years); Post-doctoral Certificate — 12–15 credits (typically 1–4 years).

Entry requirements

Requirements vary by credential:

• Graduate Certificate & MA — bachelor’s degree (or non-U.S. equivalent) from an accredited institution; minimum undergraduate GPA 2.60 (lower GPAs may be considered for strong profiles); two recommendations; a resume outlining employment, research or projects; and a statement of purpose outlining philosophical perspective and goals. English proficiency testing (TOEFL, IELTS or PTE Academic) is required for applicants whose language of education is not English.
• DLeaD & PhD — in addition to the MA-level materials: a master’s degree (or non-U.S. equivalent) from an accredited institution with minimum graduate GPA 3.30 (lower GPAs may be considered); three recommendations; a minimum of five years of professional work experience in a leadership setting is expected; and a writing sample (for example, a published article, organizational document or research paper).

Career prospects

Graduates enter or advance in leadership roles across sectors. The MA pathways support managerial and community leadership, or roles in mission-driven and social-innovation organizations (including B Corps). The DLeaD is aimed at mid-career practitioners implementing change projects, while the PhD prepares leaders for academic and research-oriented careers. The post-doctoral certificate supports further specialization for those pursuing research, teaching or administrative roles where senior faculty mentorship is available.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

For information on tuition, scholarships and other funding opportunities, applicants are directed to Andrews University Student Financial Services. Prospective students may also contact Graduate Studies or the Leadership program offices for financial-aid guidance and application help.