Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Leadership and Policy

Doctoral students are encouraged to present their research at professional conferences, and many have done so in the past under the guidance of their faculty and sometimes in concert with their faculty. Many students cannot afford the conference registration, travel and/or accommodations required in presenting. Funds would help to defray these expenses that have become prohibitive for many. In addition, we have doctoral students who simply cannot afford to rent the commencement regalia, not to mention purchase the regalia. We have had students who have made the difficult decision not to attend their graduation ceremony because not only are they required to wear the regalia, most are also paying for their travel to get here (The program is 100% online; students come from as far as Saskatchewan and African countries!).

To prepare scholars to become future leaders in an international, cross-disciplinary, and diverse contexts. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Leadership and Policy program focuses on the mission of Niagara University in bringing social justice and empowerment of those most in need to the forefront of research and development and provides a course of study in which professionals from various disciplines become change agents.

Our guiding values are as follows:

1. Vincentian tradition of Niagara University - We are inspired to serve all members of society, especially those living in poverty and oppression, in local communities and in the larger world.

2. Constructivist practice - We consider the experiences, values, and multiple identities of the individuals we serve as the foundation from which to facilitate learning and development.

3. Evidence-based best practice - We implement practices and strategies drawn from the best available research and data generated within our own professional contexts.

4. Reflective practice - We promote self-assessment, peer-assessment, and critical examination of the efficacy of one's own practice as essential for the continuous improvement of all professionals.

5. Professional Commitment and Responsibility - We demonstrate dedication and accountability to our respective professions through professional, passionate, lawful and ethical behaviors.

6. Professional Relationships - We maintain high expectations for ourselves, our colleagues, and those we serve, while respecting diversities of background, experience, opinion and perspective; and working collaboratively to support one another.