• PhD in Administration and Leadership Studies students in the classroomDesigned for working professionals
  • Focused on training mid-career professionals
    in the non-profit and public sectors
  • Part-time and full-time schedule with
    courses that run fall, spring, and summer
  • Seven-year program: three years of coursework
    and four years to completion of dissertation
  • Learn from quality faculty skilled in social
    and behavioral science research and evaluation
  • Cohort-based with cohorts seated in multiple
    locations, including Indiana and Millersville
  • Develop a professional network while you learn
  • Scholarships and research assistantships
    available

Become a Leader-Scholar in the Nonprofit and Public Sectors

The PhD in Administration and Leadership Studies is a cohort-based program that admits between 15 and 20 students at a time in even years at our main campus in Indiana, and in odd years at the Dixon University Center in Harrisburg. Because we recognize that you may be a working professional, classes are offered evenings and /or weekends.

This unique doctorate program is taught by an interdisciplinary faculty from the Sociology and Economics departments. Our unique and specialized program allows you to hone your ability to make meaningful contributions to the civic, economic, social, and cultural well-being of the commonwealth, the nation, and the world.

Accepting Applications

We are currently accepting applications for the 2021 cohort. Classes start fall 2021 at the IUP Harrisburg location.

Applications are encouraged before April 1; however, those received after will be reviewed until all available seats in the cohort are filled.

Please contact als-phd@iup.edu for additional information.

Mathilda Spencer

Inspired By Professor's Approach

“I had the opportunity to be the graduate assistant to Dr. Harvey Holtz, a professor who is a great role model. He offered me autonomy and showed through his actions how to inspire learning and expand the student's ability to think about and discuss the real world.”

Mathilda Spencer, Class of 2015, Administration and Leadership Studies, PhD

The PhD in Administration and Leadership Studies will prepare you to:

  • Develop your conceptual and applied knowledge about leadership in the nonprofit and public sectors, as well as analytic and research skills needed for planning, decision-making, and evaluation.
  • Collaborate in a cohort-style curriculum, which encourages peer networking and lead to greater sharing of information and support. This is especially helpful if you are balancing graduate studies with work and family.

Tuition rates for the ALS program

Mission Statement

The mission of the Administration and Leadership Studies PhD program is to develop leader-scholars who excel in conceptual and applied knowledge about leadership in the nonprofit and public sectors, as well as analytic and research skills needed for planning, decision-making, and evaluation. Graduates apply their education in careers as leaders, faculty members, and/or researchers, thereby contributing to the civic, economic, social, and cultural well-being of the commonwealth, the nation, and the world.

Learn more about Administration and Leadership Studies