Doctoral Programs at Marywood University

If you're looking to advance your career and make a lasting impact in your field, earning a doctoral degree could be the key. At Marywood University, our doctoral programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and leadership abilities needed to excel in today’s complex professional environments. Whether you’re aiming to lead in organizational settings or specialize in mental health, Marywood’s Ph.D. in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies (SLAS) and Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) programs offer rigorous academic training and hands-on experience to help you reach the highest level of expertise in your profession.

Ph.D. in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies

In today’s world, effective leadership requires more than just managing day-to-day operations. It calls for strategic thinking, adaptability, and the ability to inspire and drive change in complex organizations. Marywood’s Ph.D. in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies prepares students to become visionary leaders capable of navigating the challenges of modern organizations, whether in business, government, or nonprofit sectors.

This program is designed for professionals who want to deepen their understanding of leadership dynamics and improve their ability to lead teams, manage resources, and implement strategic initiatives. With an interdisciplinary approach that integrates theory and practice, students explore topics like organizational behavior, strategic decision-making, ethical leadership, and public policy.

A key component of the SLAS Ph.D. program is its emphasis on research. Students engage in meaningful research projects that address real-world issues and contribute to the development of leadership theory and practice. By the end of the program, graduates will have developed the skills to lead with confidence, think critically, and apply innovative solutions to the most pressing challenges facing their organizations.

Career prospects for graduates of the SLAS Ph.D. program are vast. Graduates can pursue roles such as executive leaders, policy analysts, management consultants, and higher education administrators. Whether you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder or influence public policy, this program equips you with the tools needed to lead with vision and integrity.

Pathway to Complete Your Doctorate in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies at Marywood University

If you have achieved all but your Dissertation (ABD), the Ph.D. Program in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies at Marywood University offers you a path to complete your doctoral program without retaking or repeating the courses that you have already taken either at Marywood University or any other accredited university, and regardless of when you have taken these courses. With all the time, money, and efforts you have dedicated to completing these courses, why not take just one last step with us and get your well-deserved doctoral degree? Marywood University offers a fully online program with 9 credits and 9 online dissertation credits (a total of 18 credits). This pathway is specifically designed for career professionals who are seeking to complete their doctoral studies and earn their Ph.D. without taking time off from their careers. In as little as two years of study, you can add a “Ph.D.” to your list of professional accomplishments. Support your personal growth and satisfaction, as well as your career accomplishments and professional aspirations—apply today to earn your well-deserved doctoral degree from an accredited, reputable university."

Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Making a Difference in Mental Health

Mental health professionals play a critical role in addressing the growing need for psychological care in today’s society. Marywood’s Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) program is designed for students who are passionate about providing evidence-based psychological services and making a direct impact on individuals and communities. The Psy.D. program emphasizes practical training and clinical skills, preparing students to become licensed psychologists capable of diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health issues.

At the heart of the Psy.D. program is a focus on hands-on experience. Students gain extensive clinical training through Marywood’s Psychological Services Center, where they work directly with clients under the supervision of licensed professionals. Following this, in both years 3 and 4 students participate in additional clinical training, either in the community or continuing in the PSC. This experience allows students to apply their classroom learning to real-world settings, developing the skills necessary to deliver effective therapy and assessments.

The Psy.D. program follows the scholar-practitioner model, meaning that students are trained both as clinicians and as informed consumers of research. While the emphasis is on clinical practice, students also engage in research that informs their therapeutic approach, ensuring they are equipped to provide the highest quality care to their clients.

Graduates of the Psy.D. program are well-prepared to pursue careers as licensed clinical psychologists in various settings, including private practice, hospitals, community mental health centers, and academic institutions. Whether you’re interested in working with individuals, families, or communities, Marywood’s Psy.D. program provides the foundation you need to make a meaningful difference in the field of mental health.

Why Choose Marywood for Your Doctoral Studies?

Both of Marywood’s doctoral programs offer a student-centered approach, emphasizing small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and a supportive learning environment. Our experienced faculty are not only leaders in their fields but also dedicated mentors who guide students through their academic journey and help them reach their professional goals.

At Marywood, doctoral students also benefit from a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment that encourages cross-departmental learning and engagement with broader professional networks. Whether you’re pursuing a leadership role in an organization or preparing for a career as a clinical psychologist, Marywood’s doctoral programs provide the tools and experiences needed to thrive in your chosen field.

Take the next step toward reaching your highest potential with Marywood University’s Ph.D. in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies or Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.). Learn more about how these programs can transform your career and help you make a lasting impact.