Doctor Of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program is designed for experienced professionals aiming to deepen their expertise within an academic or research-oriented environment. This 60-unit Doctor of Philosophy Ph.D. program is open to the following fields of study: Business/Management, Leadership, Education, or Research.

The Doctor of Philosophy Ph.D. is intended for advanced practitioners who are likely in high-level academic or research positions, or who are consultants/professionals seeking to enhance their scholarly contributions. The objective is to foster their growth and future roles by enhancing their academic rigor, analytical skills, and critical thinking abilities. This doctorate is not for those looking to increase technical skills in their field, but for those aspiring to advance their scholarly practice and academic reputation.

There are two different tracks to obtain the Doctor of Philosophy Ph.D either via coursework and research or only research. The research only pathway is geared towards those who have completed research in the past either at a master’s level or above.

For those who do not have any experience conducting research, the coursework and research option is recommended.

PhD Curriculum – Coursework and Research Track

Core Courses

DBA, Ed.D, Strategic Leadership Curriculum	Core Courses	30
Approved Electives	Approved Electives	33
	Electives can be transferred in or taken from any of AMU’s master’s programs or doctoral programs if not already in your core curriculum.
	Total core units	36-39

Research Courses

Course ID	Course	Credits
DOC 901	Proposal	3
DOC 902	Literature Review	3
DOC 904	Research Methods	3
DOC 910	Results	3
DOC 911	Conclusion	3
DOC 950	Defense	6
	Total Research Project Units	21
	Total PhD Units	57-60

PhD Curriculum – Research Only Track

Courses

Course ID	Course	Credits
DOC 930	Doctoral Proposal	12
DOC 931	Literature Review	12
DOC 932	Research Methods	6
DOC 933	Results	6
DOC 934	Conclusion	6
	Dissemination Options
DOC 940	Presentation	6
OR DOC 941	Publication	6
	Final Assessment Options
DOC 950	Defense	12
OR DOC 951	Conference Presentation	12
	Total PhD Units	60

Doctor of Education(Ed.D)

Program Overview: The Doctor of Education program at American Management University is designed to develop visionary leaders in education who are prepared to create and implement innovative solutions to complex educational challenges. This program emphasizes research, theory, and practice in the field of education, preparing graduates to make impactful contributions in various educational settings, from K-12 systems to higher education and adult learning environments.

Curriculum Highlights:

Educational Leadership: Study the principles and practices of effective leadership in educational organizations, including strategic planning, organizational change, and leadership ethics.

Curriculum and Instruction: Delve into advanced curriculum design, assessment strategies, and instructional methodologies tailored to diverse learning environments and student needs.

Educational Policy: Analyze the impact of educational policies on school effectiveness and student outcomes, and learn to advocate for equitable policy changes.

Research and Dissertation:

Research Methodologies: Master a range of research methodologies appropriate for educational research, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods.

Dissertation: Undertake a significant research project that addresses a critical issue in education, aiming to produce actionable insights and solutions. This culminating project should combine rigorous research with practical applications to improve educational practices or policies.

Professional Development:

Professional Learning Communities: Participate in collaborative groups that foster ongoing professional development and networking with peers and experts in the field.

Conferences and Workshops: Engage in national and international educational conferences to stay current with the latest research and trends in education. AMU works with several organizations you may participate in to listen or present.

Program Outcomes: Graduates will be well-equipped to assume leadership roles in educational settings, influence educational policy, and contribute to the academic community through research and scholarship. They will possess the skills to address pressing educational challenges and lead innovations in teaching and learning.

Admission Requirements: Applicants must possess a master’s degree in education or a closely related field. Two years of experience and an unrelated master’s degree may be used to substitute the master’s degre in education requirement. Professional experience in educational settings is highly recommended, and a demonstrated commitment to educational improvement is essential.

A student who transfers in the maximum credits may complete their Doctor of Education program in 6 to 12 months.

Doctor Of Strategic Leadership

Program Overview: The Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) at American Management University is crafted for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in strategic leadership and organizational change. This advanced program focuses on developing leaders who can craft strategies that enhance organizational effectiveness and drive transformational change across various industries and sectors.

Curriculum Highlights:

Advanced Strategic Leadership: Explore the theories and practices of strategic leadership, including vision casting, strategic alignment, and execution.

Organizational Change and Development: Study the dynamics of organizational change, learning how to manage and lead through transitions effectively.

Innovation and Entrepreneurial Leadership: Delve into the processes of innovation and how strategic leadership can foster an entrepreneurial spirit within organizations.

Research and Dissertation:

Research Methodologies: Master a range of research methodologies that are pivotal in analyzing and addressing leadership challenges.

Strategic Leadership Project: Undertake a substantial research project that demonstrates your ability to apply advanced leadership theories and methods to real-world problems. The project should propose strategic solutions and include a detailed implementation plan.

Professional Development:

Executive Leadership Workshops: Participate in workshops designed to enhance your leadership skills, strategic thinking, and ethical decision-making.

Program Outcomes: Graduates will emerge as visionary leaders capable of impacting their organizations and communities positively. They will have the skills to lead strategic initiatives, drive organizational change, and promote innovation.

Admission Requirements: Candidates must possess a master’s degree in business, management, leadership, or a related field. Significant professional experience, particularly in leadership or management roles, is highly valued.

Program Duration: This program is designed to accommodate both full-time and part-time students, typically requiring 36 to 48 months to complete. The flexible structure allows professionals to balance their studies with their career commitments. A student who transfers in the maximium credits may complete their program in 12 to 18 months.

DSL Curriculum

Core Courses

Course ID	Course	Credits
LEAS801	Leadership in Theory and Practice	3
LEAS802	The Change Process	3
LEAS804	Strategic Leadership	3
LEAS805	Organizational Design and Strategy	3
LEAS808	Strategic Global Leadership	3
LEAS809	Leading Teams/Collaboration	3
LEAS810 or Approved Elective	Sustainability Leadership	3
LEAS811 or Approved Elective	Managing Human Capital	3
LEAS812 or Approved Elective	Ethical Leadership	3
LEAS813 or Approved Elective	Leadership in Historical Context	3

	Four graduate-level electives can be transferred in or taken from any of AMU’s master’s programs
	Total Core Quarter Units	30

Research Courses

Course ID	Course	Credits
DOC800 or DOC801	Qualitative Research or Quantitative Research	3
DOC803	Research Statistics	3
DOC901	Doctoral Proposal	3
DOC902	Literature Review	3
DOC903	Applied Research Methods	3
DOC905	Project I	6
DOC906	Project II	6
DOC 950	Doctoral Defense	0

	Total Research Units	27

	Total DSL Units	57

Doctor Of Professional Studies

Program Overview: The Doctor of Professional Studies (DPS) at American Management University is tailored for experienced professionals seeking to advance their expertise and influence within their organizational and professional environments. This 48-unit program is designed to enhance the professional growth and strategic leadership capabilities of advanced practitioners, such as high-level managers or consultants, who aim to elevate their professional practice and reputation rather than increase technical skills in their field.

Curriculum Highlights:

Advanced Professional Practice: Focuses on developing a deeper understanding and application of strategic leadership within various professional settings, determined by each candidate’s work environment, activity area, and interests.

Flexible Coursework: Candidates may choose up to eight electives, allowing for customization of the curriculum to fit specific professional needs and goals.

Transfer Credits: Up to 24 units can be transferred into the program, offering a pathway to completion in as little as 12 to 18 months for students who transfer the maximum credits.

Research and Capstone Project:

Research Proposal Development: Create a detailed proposal that tackles a significant challenge or opportunity within your professional sphere.

Capstone Project: Execute a substantial project that applies doctoral-level research to real-world issues, leading to practical outcomes that enhance both personal and organizational growth.

Professional Development:

Leadership and Change Management Workshops: Engage in high-impact workshops focused on strategic decision-making and effective change management.

Professional Networking: Leverage a network of industry leaders and peers across diverse fields to enhance collaborative opportunities and further career objectives.

Program Outcomes: Graduates are poised to assume roles that demand high-level problem-solving and decision-making capabilities. They will be leaders capable of influencing policy, advancing professional practices, and significantly improving their professional reputation and the effectiveness of their organizations.

Admission Requirements: Candidates should possess a master’s degree in a relevant field along with substantial professional experience. This program is ideal for those who are in a high management position or are established consultants.

Program Duration: The flexibility of the DPS program allows for part-time or full-time study, with the program duration ranging from 6 to 12 months for those transferring the maximum credits, to 30 to 42 months for other enrollees, depending on the pace and commitment of the student.

DPS Curriculum

Core Courses

DPS801 or Approved Elective	Professional Studies in Practice I	3
DPS802 or Approved Elective	Professional Studies in Practice II	3
DPS803 or Approved Elective	Professional Studies in Practice III	3
DPS804 or Approved Elective	Professional Studies in Practice IV	3
Approved Elective	Elective	3
Approved Elective	Elective	3
Approved Elective	Elective	3
Approved Elective	Elective	3

	Four graduate-level electives can be transferred in or taken from any of AMU’s master’s programs
	Total Core Quarter Units	24

Research Courses

Course ID	Course	Credits
DOC 800	Qualitative Research	3 OR
DOC 801	Quantitative Research	3
DOC901	Doctoral Proposal	3
DOC902	Literature Review	3
DOC903	Applied Research Methods	3
DOC905	Project I	6
DOC906	Project II	6
DOC 950	Doctoral Defense	0

	Total Research Project Units	24

	Total DPS Units	48

Doctor Of Business Administration

Program Overview: The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at American Management University is designed for business professionals who seek to advance their careers through a deep understanding of advanced business principles and the application of research to real-world business problems. This program focuses on the development of analytical and strategic skills, enabling graduates to generate solutions that significantly impact business practice and policy.

Curriculum Highlights:

Advanced Business Strategies: Explore sophisticated strategies in global business, corporate governance, and financial management.

Innovative Research Methods: Employ advanced qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research techniques to address complex business challenges.

Leadership and Ethical Decision-Making: Develop skills in leadership, ethical reasoning, and decision-making processes in complex and diverse environments.

Research and Dissertation:

Research Proposal Development: Craft a detailed research proposal that addresses a pivotal issue in contemporary business.

Applied Business Project: Execute a comprehensive research project that applies doctoral-level theory and research to a practical business problem. The dissertation should provide actionable insights and offer clear implications for business practice and strategy.

Professional Development:

Executive Leadership Workshops: Engage in high-level workshops that enhance executive presence, strategic thinking, and global business acumen.

Professional Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network through access to business leaders, academic experts, and alumni via global conferences and AMU events.

Program Outcomes: Graduates are prepared to hold top executive positions in corporate, public, or non-profit organizations, or to become consultants or academics who contribute to the advancement of business theory and practice.

Admission Requirements: Candidates must possess a master’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field. Significant professional experience, particularly in leadership roles, is highly valued and may substitute a business-related master’s degree, however, candidate must have a master’s degree in another subject to supplement their experience.

The program is 54 to 60 units in length and is expected to be completed in 36 to 48 months. Students who transfer in the maximum credits may complete the program in 6 to 12 months.

DBA Curriculum

Core Courses

Course ID	Course	Units
LEAS801	Leadership in Theory and Practice	3
LEAS805	Organizational Design and Strategy	3
LEAS804	Strategic Leadership	3
LEAS812	Ethical Leadership	3
DBA900	Corporate Financial Management and Accounting	3
DBA905	Supply Chain Management for Executives	3
DBA910	Data Analytics	3
DBA915	Executive Management in Practice	3
DBA920	Strategic Marketing	3
DBA925	Global Business Strategies	3

	Total Core Units	33

Research Courses

Course ID	Course	Units
DOC800 or DOC801	Qualitative Research or Quantitative Research	3
DOC803	Research Statistics	3
DOC901	Doctoral Proposal	3
DOC902	Literature Review	3
DOC903	Applied Research Methods	3
DOC905	Project I	6
DOC906	Project II	6
DOC 950	Doctoral Defense	0

	Total Research Units	27

	Total DBA Units	60

DBA, Ed.D, Strategic Leadership Curriculum	Core Courses	30-33
Approved Electives	Approved Electives	6
	Electives can be transferred in or taken from any of AMU’s master’s programs or doctoral programs if not already in your core curriculum.
	Total Core Units	36-39

Course ID	Course	Credits
DOC 901	Proposal	3
DOC 902	Literature Review	3
DOC 904	Research Methods	3
DOC 910	Results	3
DOC 911	Conclusion	3
	DOC 950	Defense
	Total Research Project Units	21
	Total PhD Units	57-60

American Management University (Fast-Track Program)

Doctor Of Philosophy

PhD Curriculum – Coursework and Research Track

Core Courses

Research Courses

PhD Curriculum – Research Only Track

Courses

Doctor of Education(Ed.D)

Curriculum Highlights:

Educational Leadership: Study the principles and practices of effective leadership in educational organizations, including strategic planning, organizational change, and leadership ethics.

Curriculum and Instruction: Delve into advanced curriculum design, assessment strategies, and instructional methodologies tailored to diverse learning environments and student needs.

Educational Policy: Analyze the impact of educational policies on school effectiveness and student outcomes, and learn to advocate for equitable policy changes.

Research and Dissertation:

Research Methodologies: Master a range of research methodologies appropriate for educational research, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods.

Dissertation: Undertake a significant research project that addresses a critical issue in education, aiming to produce actionable insights and solutions. This culminating project should combine rigorous research with practical applications to improve educational practices or policies.

Professional Development:

Professional Learning Communities: Participate in collaborative groups that foster ongoing professional development and networking with peers and experts in the field.

Conferences and Workshops: Engage in national and international educational conferences to stay current with the latest research and trends in education. AMU works with several organizations you may participate in to listen or present.

A student who transfers in the maximum credits may complete their Doctor of Education program in 6 to 12 months.

Doctor Of Strategic Leadership

Curriculum Highlights:

Advanced Strategic Leadership: Explore the theories and practices of strategic leadership, including vision casting, strategic alignment, and execution.

Organizational Change and Development: Study the dynamics of organizational change, learning how to manage and lead through transitions effectively.

Innovation and Entrepreneurial Leadership: Delve into the processes of innovation and how strategic leadership can foster an entrepreneurial spirit within organizations.

Research and Dissertation:

Research Methodologies: Master a range of research methodologies that are pivotal in analyzing and addressing leadership challenges.

Strategic Leadership Project: Undertake a substantial research project that demonstrates your ability to apply advanced leadership theories and methods to real-world problems. The project should propose strategic solutions and include a detailed implementation plan.

Professional Development:

Executive Leadership Workshops: Participate in workshops designed to enhance your leadership skills, strategic thinking, and ethical decision-making.

Program Outcomes: Graduates will emerge as visionary leaders capable of impacting their organizations and communities positively. They will have the skills to lead strategic initiatives, drive organizational change, and promote innovation.

Admission Requirements: Candidates must possess a master’s degree in business, management, leadership, or a related field. Significant professional experience, particularly in leadership or management roles, is highly valued.

DSL Curriculum

Core Courses

Research Courses

Doctor Of Professional Studies

Curriculum Highlights:

Advanced Professional Practice: Focuses on developing a deeper understanding and application of strategic leadership within various professional settings, determined by each candidate’s work environment, activity area, and interests.

Flexible Coursework: Candidates may choose up to eight electives, allowing for customization of the curriculum to fit specific professional needs and goals.

Transfer Credits: Up to 24 units can be transferred into the program, offering a pathway to completion in as little as 12 to 18 months for students who transfer the maximum credits.

Research and Capstone Project:

Research Proposal Development: Create a detailed proposal that tackles a significant challenge or opportunity within your professional sphere.

Capstone Project: Execute a substantial project that applies doctoral-level research to real-world issues, leading to practical outcomes that enhance both personal and organizational growth.

Professional Development:

Leadership and Change Management Workshops: Engage in high-impact workshops focused on strategic decision-making and effective change management.

Professional Networking: Leverage a network of industry leaders and peers across diverse fields to enhance collaborative opportunities and further career objectives.

Admission Requirements: Candidates should possess a master’s degree in a relevant field along with substantial professional experience. This program is ideal for those who are in a high management position or are established consultants.

Program Duration: The flexibility of the DPS program allows for part-time or full-time study, with the program duration ranging from 6 to 12 months for those transferring the maximum credits, to 30 to 42 months for other enrollees, depending on the pace and commitment of the student.

DPS Curriculum

Core Courses

Research Courses

Doctor Of Business Administration

Curriculum Highlights:

Advanced Business Strategies: Explore sophisticated strategies in global business, corporate governance, and financial management.

Innovative Research Methods: Employ advanced qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research techniques to address complex business challenges.

Leadership and Ethical Decision-Making: Develop skills in leadership, ethical reasoning, and decision-making processes in complex and diverse environments.

Research and Dissertation:

Research Proposal Development: Craft a detailed research proposal that addresses a pivotal issue in contemporary business.

Applied Business Project: Execute a comprehensive research project that applies doctoral-level theory and research to a practical business problem. The dissertation should provide actionable insights and offer clear implications for business practice and strategy.

Professional Development:

Executive Leadership Workshops: Engage in high-level workshops that enhance executive presence, strategic thinking, and global business acumen.

Professional Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network through access to business leaders, academic experts, and alumni via global conferences and AMU events.

Program Outcomes: Graduates are prepared to hold top executive positions in corporate, public, or non-profit organizations, or to become consultants or academics who contribute to the advancement of business theory and practice.

The program is 54 to 60 units in length and is expected to be completed in 36 to 48 months. Students who transfer in the maximum credits may complete the program in 6 to 12 months.

DBA Curriculum

Core Courses

Research Courses

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