The University of Lynchburg has launched its first PhD program, The Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies.
The new, 100% online PhD program supports students who are driven not only to lead effectively, but to advance the study of leadership itself by producing research that can influence practice, policy, and outcomes across sectors. Students can choose from five concentration options including interdisciplinary, education, healthcare, nonprofit, and sports administration.
Applications are open and the first cohort will begin classes in Summer 2026.
Dr. Mac Duis will serve as program director for the new program. Duis also serves as program director for Lynchburg’s Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies and associate program director for the Doctor of Executive Leadership.
The PhD was developed from Duis’ vision to create a research-centered doctorate that extends Lynchburg’s leadership mission and supports the next generation of scholarship.
“Leaders aren’t born; they’re made — and at Lynchburg, we take that seriously,” said Duis.
With the launch of the PhD, the University of Lynchburg continues to build a robust leadership ecosystem that includes options in the Build-Your-Own MEd, Master or Arts in Nonprofit Leadership, EdD in Leadership Studies, Doctor of Executive Leadership, and the Doctor of Medical Science among others.
Lynchburg’s graduate-level leadership programs offer clear pathways for professionals who want to strengthen leadership performance and create new knowledge that shapes the future of their field.
To learn more about Lynchburg’s graduate offerings, visit our graduate programs webpage or contact the Office of Graduate Success at [email protected].
