Program Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy in Ethical Leadership with a Criminal Justice Specialization prepares leaders for criminal justice institutions and communities. The program emphasizes service to underrepresented communities, policy development, and equality in law enforcement and application. Graduates are equipped for positions in administration, faculty, law enforcement, legal, and corrections.
Program Outline
Doctor of Philosophy in Ethical Leadership (Ph.D.): Criminal Justice Specialization
Degree Overview:
This program provides a foundation for integrated theory and practice in criminal justice, focusing on history, current issues, and leadership approaches. It aims to develop leaders prepared to lead a more just and egalitarian criminal justice system.
Objectives:
- Advance leadership skills and attitudes within criminal justice settings.
- Emphasize service to underrepresented communities.
- Engage in policy revision, development, and evaluation.
- Promote equality in law enforcement and application.
- Enhance corrections management.
Description:
This program leverages the Ph.D. in Ethical Leadership to develop leaders for criminal justice institutions, organizations, and communities. Graduates are prepared for administration, faculty, law enforcement, legal, and corrections positions.
Outline:
Core Leadership Courses (21 Credits):
- DEL 801 Interpersonal Leadership
- DEL 802 Moral Imagination & Decision-Making
- DEL 805 Leadership in Action
- ELI 801 Theory and Practice of Leadership
- ELI 805 Strategic Leadership & Globalization
- ELI 809 Innovation & Leadership
- ELI 807 Ethics & Governance
Specialization Courses (15 Credits):
- CJA 810 Theories of Crime
- CJA 815 Globalization & Crime
- CJA 817 Criminal Law & Society
- CJA 818 Counsel Victims/Offenders
- CJA 820 Restorative Justice
- ELI 999 Special Topics
Research Courses (12 Credits):
- DEL 804 Assessment & Evaluation
- RES 819 Research Methods
- RES 820 Quantitative Research
- RES 821 Qualitative Research
Doctoral Dissertation Courses (12 Credits):
- DIS 900 Doctoral Research Proposal
- DIS 901 Doctoral Research I
- DIS 902 Doctoral Research II
- DIS 903 Doctoral Research III
- DIS 904 Doctoral Continuation (if needed)
Assessment:
Graduation Requirements:
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a combination of face-to-face instruction and online learning.
Faculty:
The program features faculty with expertise in ethical leadership and criminal justice.
Careers:
Career Landscape:
Graduates are prepared for positions such as:
- Executives, managers, directors, and supervisors in law enforcement agencies
- Directors and managers for non-profit organizations, management consultants, planners, and policy advisors
- Corporate Instructional Leader
- Corporate Training Director
Other:
Program Highlights:
- Maximum Accessibility: 8-week courses with intensive residency for professional networking.
- Economic Benefit: Affordable tuition compared to competitors.
- Pace of the Program: Full-time working professionals can complete the program in 3 years.
- Rolling Admissions: Applications reviewed continuously for start date convenience.
- Ease of Application: Personalized admissions advisor, no standardized test requirement.
- Transfer Credits Accepted: Up to 18 credits transferable, accelerating completion.
Start Terms:
The program offers six start terms throughout the year.
Entry Requirements:
The Ph.D. in Ethical Leadership with a Specialization in Criminal Justice program requires applicants to meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualifications:
- A completed and signed university Application for Admission
- Official accredited college and/or university baccalaureate and master’s transcripts demonstrating a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- A personal statement describing the applicant's professional goals and why the degree is important for achieving those goals.
- A professional resume outlining relevant work experience and achievements.
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic and professional abilities.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
The Ph.D. program at St. Thomas University is primarily delivered in English. applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following means:
- Native English speakers: No additional documentation required.
- Non-native English speakers:
- Completion of a bachelor's degree or master's degree from an accredited institution where the language of instruction was English. OR
- A score of 80 or higher on the TOEFL iBT (internet-based test). OR
- A score of 7.0 or higher on the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). OR
- A score of 550 or higher on the paper-based TOEFL (minimum score of 55 in the written section).
Additional Considerations:
- The program welcomes applications from students with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Applicants may be invited for an interview as part of the admissions process.
Note:
Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis, and applicants are encouraged to contact the Office of Graduate Admissions for specific deadlines and requirements.
