PhD in Global Leadership and Change FAQs
Do I need a master's degree to apply to the PhD in Leadership and Change program?
Yes, all applicants must have a master's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. We do not require that applicants have a master's degree in a specific field; we take a holistic approach to application review. If you are currently pursuing your master's degree, you can still apply for the program as long as your degree is posted before the doctoral program begins.
What is the required GPA?
We ask that candidates to our PhD in Leadership and Change program have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA from both their master's and baccalaureate programs; however, we review all applications holistically for individuals who show potential for success in our program. If you are concerned about your GPA, you are welcome to include a brief "GPA Statement of Explanation" with your application.
Do I have to take the GRE?
No GRE or standardized tests are required.
When does the program start?
The PhD in Global Leadership and Change program begins with a Community-Building Workshop and Orientation in August. Classes start mid-September, which will be face-to-face at our West Los Angeles Graduate Campus.
What does rolling admission mean?
We begin reviewing applications once the full completed application is received. It typically takes 4-5 weeks to receive an admissions decision.
If an application is received after the deadline, it will be reviewed on a space-available basis. If the program is full, the applicant will be considered for the following year.
Is there an interview process?
Please refer to our Admission Requirements webpage.
How long does the PhD program take to complete?
The first three years of this doctoral program are dedicated to completing coursework. Following coursework, all students are required to complete their comprehensive exam and dissertation in order to graduate.
For our doctoral programs, students generally complete the programs in 3.5- 4 years, but students have up to 8 years to complete their entire program.
I am an international applicant. What additional admission requirements do I need to submit?
Please visit our Admissions Requirements page for a full list.
How much does the program cost?
Please visit our Financial Aid page for current information on program costs, financial aid, scholarships, and grants.
Our financial aid award packages can consist of Colleagues grants, federal direct loans, and departmental scholarship. To be eligible for the most amount of aid, we encourage all applicants to submit their FAFSA applications.
When are the policy trips?
The international policy experience and national policy trips are course requirements. The international policy trip takes place during the first summer of the program. Students will have the opportunity to explore an international location.
The national policy trip takes place in the second summer of the program in Washington D.C. Actual dates vary by year.
Where is the program offered?
The PhD in Leadership and Change program is primarily online with required meetings at the West Los Angeles Graduate Campus.
When are classes held?
This program is online with face-to-face meetings two weekends per term at the West Los Angeles Graduate Campus.
What is the difference between a PhD and EdD?
The PhD is research-focused while the EdD is oriented toward educational practice and the application of theory and research. Both degrees require dissertations.
What kind of job opportunities will be available to me once I graduate from this program?
Graduates of the program are likely to hold senior-level positions in NGOs, think tanks, higher education, health care, military leadership, federal and state government, and other organizations.
How can I learn more about this doctoral program?
You are welcome to attend one of our formal in-person or online information sessions. To see the upcoming schedule and to RSVP for a meeting, please visit our page on information sessions.
If you are unable to attend an information session, you are welcome to connect with the Admissions and Recruitment Team at gsep-recruitment@pepperdine.edu to schedule a personal consultation.