Pursuing a doctoral degree can be time consuming, especially when you have a job, a family, or both. Yet, when we launched our two new doctoral programs earlier this year, both cohorts were full. Students from Pennsylvania to Virginia came to campus in May and in June to start a new academic journey with Cabrini University.
When asked why they chose Cabrini, students shared the appeal of a mixed delivery method—blending in-person and online classes. This intentional design allows for students to find a better balance between the rigors of a graduate program and other time demands. They also expound on the programs’ integration of ethical leadership and decision-making throughout the curriculum, which is pertinent to their career goals and core beliefs.
The doctoral programs in Organizational Development and Educational Leadership are part of Cabrini’s 2020 Roadmap, a strategic growth plan set in motion by President Donald B. Taylor, PhD. The programs build on our established master’s degrees in business and education and echo our institutional goals of access and excellence.
For a minimum of three years, more than 40 doctoral students will work in close-knit groups toward a PhD, EdD, or DBA degree, honing their skills with visiting scholars and expert Cabrini faculty. Already, the cohort model of learning is beginning to build camaraderie and a professional network so important to our students’ careers.
“I am really impressed by the caliber of the students and faculty in this doctoral program,” Anton Shufutinsky said. Shufutinsky is in the Organizational Development PhD program and works full time at Merck & Co. “My classmates are from diverse backgrounds and industries, and that diversity adds a dynamic element to our discussions that is truly unique.”
Cabrini faculty and administrators are as excited as the students. “We were delighted by the strong interest in the two new doctoral programs, “ said Jeffrey Gingerich, PhD, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Faculty and staff are working hard to ensure that the students continue to have a quality experience throughout their time with us.”
The PhD/DBA in Organizational Development runs on a two-year cycle and will be accepting applications for a Spring 2018 cohort in early 2017. The EdD in Educational Leadership plans to start a new cohort every year and is accepting applications for next year’s group.