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School Facts

Institutional Accrediting Agency
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission

Address
10000 E. University Drive
Prescott Valley AZ 86314

Calendar Type
Term begins every Monday

Credit-earning Options
Credits from an accredited institution, military training and experience, and AP, CLEP, and DSST tests may be awarded in transfer. Determination of transfer credits will be verified with a transcript review.

Delivery Format
NCUs courses are delivered online in a One-to-One (one student paired with one faculty member) faculty mentored approach.

Technical Requirements
Intel P4 (2 Ghz+) processor, minimum 1 GB RAM (2GB+ recommended); minimum 40 GB free hard disk space (60 GB+ recommended); CD-ROM drive, thumb drive and external hard drive; minimum of 56 Kbps or faster modem Broadband at 144+ Kbps, DLS or Cable.

Geographic Restrictions
None.

Loans Offered
Financial aid may be available to those who qualify.

DBA - Advanced Accounting

Accounting is the language of business and this specialization area sharpens student’s communication skills in the field. Students understand how to scrutinize accounting data and how it is applicable to a successful business. Students will acquire a practical application of a broad accounting perspective and technical accounting knowledge, enabling the exploration of relationships among business activities, economic outcomes, and business performance. Students learn how these accounting concepts speak to the overall financial condition of a firm. Graduates of this specialization could hold positions such as chief accountant, senior audit director, and vice president of accounting.

DBA - Criminal Justice

The DBA Criminal Justice Specialization uniquely prepares the student for executive roles within law enforcement and private security. Students will analyze and problem-solve current issues in criminal justice. Graduates in this field will apply their skills as decision-makers within police and allied agencies.

PhD in Business - Organizational Leadership

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership is designed for business professionals, private managers, or public administrators who are looking to strengthen their knowledge of business and management practices.

NCU’s PhD students in this specialization will have the opportunity to examine what drives overall success in a company, an institution, or an agency. Northcentral’s rigorous curriculum is designed to explore topics in technology management, conflict resolution, organizational negotiations, cultural diversity, and community relations.

Prior to completing the program, our students will have the chance to analyze a field-specific topic of interest through the completion of a major research assignment. Our graduates go on to be organizational consultants or to pursue senior leadership roles in many areas such as business administration, human resources, non-profit administration, and related fields including diversity management, labor relations, psychology, and sociology.  

Education Specialist - Educational Leadership

The Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership at Northcentral University will provide you with a strong knowledgebase in K-12 management and leadership. Throughout this program, you will learn to lead others as you address management and leadership issues in education, such as school law, safety and diversity.

As an EdS in Educational Leadership graduate, you will have a deep understanding of leadership and supervision within organizations, and will be prepared to pursue positions as a specialist in K-12 educational leadership in today’s diverse educational environment. The EdS program also prepares you for further doctoral study in Educational Leadership, should you desire to further advance your education.

PhD in Education - Educational Leadership

NCU's online Ph.D. in Education program is suitable for learners who want to combine a strong base of theoretical knowledge with an individualized focus to conduct research in and about PK-12, postsecondary and adult learning environments. Ph.D.s in Education are found in many different roles in academia, industry and not-for-profit organizations, including educational consultant, academic researcher, policy maker, educational theorist, and faculty member or administrator in a higher education setting. The School of Education at NCU is committed to preparing Educational Leaders and scholars through a comprehensive program of study in Educational Leadership (EL) addressing the ever-changing conditions and emerging issues within the context of education. Dedicated to the University's mission of providing excellence in teaching, research, and service, the program promotes a broad array of values, knowledge, and skills essential to renew and improve education in the 21st century.

PhD in Business - Public Administration

This Public Administration specialization focuses on research that correlates to ongoing civil service issues and concerns, organizational theory and behavior, administrative leadership, collaborative government and public agency budgeting, government and intergovernmental relations, public personnel policy management, political systems, organizational theory, technological communications, urban planning and social justice. Additionally, the curriculum emphasizes strategic planning including contemporary program evaluation, complex public organizations, and environmental compliance, citizen empowerment and governmental partnership, employee training and performance and the examination of ongoing mechanisms needed to meet the challenges in government management at the local, state, federal and international levels. Possible potions held by graduates are Budget Director, Program Evaluation Director, Research Analyst and Economic Development Director.

PhD in Business - Management of Engineering and Technology

The Management of Engineering and Technology specialization focuses on integrating practical technical experience with management theory and research. This specialization focuses on the synergism between technology and business practices to improve organizational outcomes. Students will better understand how different business practices and technology align. Research projects provide in-depth analysis of principles of productivity, quality management, productivity using technology, and environmental systems management.

PhD in Business - Management Information Systems

The Management Information Systems specialization combines and applies the components of both computer systems and management disciplines. The focus is using Local Area Network (LAN) / Wide Area Network (WAN)  / Database systems to enhance the management process and business outcomes, applying contemporary research and current theories in the MIS field. The Management Information Systems Specialization will help prepare students who would like to expand their knowledge base in this every changing field. Graduates could hold positions such as chief information officer, vice president of MIS, MIS professor, or chief security officer.

PhD in Business - Management

The objectives of the Ph.D. in Management specialization are to ground the students in the various research methods and an overview of theories in the field. Some of the course contents are business organization and management, organizational behavior and international business. Much more important is to lead the student from theories to practical application of the materials learned in the courses. The eventual outcomes are students who are prepared to enter the market place as professors, corporate directors, government officials marketing executives, and consultants.

PhD in Business - Industrial/Organization Psychology

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration with a specialization in Industrial Organizational Psychology explores the application of industrial and organizational psychology and management theory to the understanding of people in work environment. In this interdisciplinary specialization, students complete courses in the School of Business and Technology Management and the School of Behavioral and Health Sciences in order to develop competencies in theory, research, and applications of psychology related to human behavior in organizations. Students conduct advanced research related to the application of organizational and psychological theory to human resource management.

The program is a research-based program that is designed to give students the opportunity to build their skill and knowledge base. The program emphasizes qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Students have the chance to learn to evaluate, interpret, and integrate knowledge into the business decision-making process.

PhD in Business - International Business

Today’s global business environment is interconnected and interdependent, in many different ways, through technology, and international trade, via trade agreements, and so on.  While globalization, or as some may argue regionalization, brings many benefits, it also brings many global challenges, such as the recent global financial crisis.  These global challenges suggest that Marketing, for example, should be culturally responsive, that Multi-National Corporations (MNC) should think globally, but act locally, and while standardization principles are critical to organizational success, localization is a must to do business in a specific foreign country.  Further, today’s global leadership must be aware of the challenges of doing business in foreign countries, due to their individual and different political, economic, socio-cultural, legal, and environmental systems.  Additionally, researchers argue that the global dynamic stage for the 21st century is witnessing an economic and power shift from the developed countries to the emerging and developing economy nations.  To minimize these challenges, MNCs must have an in-depth understanding of Emotional Intelligence (EQ), and Cultural Intelligence (CI).  Further, they must avoid ethnocentrism and a self-reference criteria approach to doing business.  

Therefore, this specialization prepares students with a unique perspective to these issues; by focusing theory and research of business practices on multinational and international organizations in meeting these global challenges.  Further, this specialization provides students with comprehensive education and research techniques in cross-disciplinary subjects such as the international business environments, the global market environment, the cultural environment of global business, international strategic management, international business law and its environment, total quality management in international business, and so on, and through the application of rigorous and quality advanced qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and problem-solving techniques.  To this end, this specialization helps to prepare students for careers in international leadership and management, international marketing, international consulting and international trade; as well as prepares students for international teaching positions in post-secondary institutions of higher education at home or in a foreign country.

Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration - Homeland Security - Leadership & Policy

This specialization prepares senior leaders of public administration, law enforcement, public safety, and emergency medical care and disaster preparedness agencies for executive leadership positions in the field of homeland security. This specialization focuses on rigorous research exploring advanced concepts and methods, and applying theory and emerging concepts through innovative approaches to complex problems. Students may choose from a variety of courses in terrorism, strategy, intelligence, emergency management, and critical infrastructure security issues. Graduates are prepared to assume teaching positions and senior executive positions in government from local to federal levels with an emphasis on applying emerging concepts and theories in an ever-changing security environment. 

Education Specialist - Early Childhood Education

The Education Specialist degree in Early Childhood Education at Northcentral University allows you to explore a broad spectrum of topics as you increase your understanding of research and theory related to the study of education in early childhood. You will advance your skills in scientific inquiry and leadership through applied research and program evaluation. You will also have the opportunity to study such topics as growth and development, childhood literature, program administration, curriculum and assessment, and stakeholder partnerships.

As an EdS graduate in Early Childhood Education, you will be prepared to pursue various positions in education, such as early childhood consultant, childhood development specialist, or as a policy and development professional. The EdS degree program can also prepare you for doctoral studies in Early Childhood Education should you desire to pursue further education.

PhD in Business - Health Care Administration

Advance your career in the dynamic and volatile field of health care administration. This health care administration specialization includes advanced research and course work in the areas of strategic planning, comparative health care system analysis, and total quality management in health care. Students who choose this specialization are often current or future health care professionals who want to develop theoretical and research-based health care industry management knowledge.  Graduates often seek high-level management positions in both public and private health care settings.

PhD in Business - Financial Management

This doctoral degree concentrates on developing advanced skills needed to work with educational, governmental and financial organizations.  The student will acquire skills from a broad collection of financial topics and research methods that can fit both within for-profit and not-for-profit environments.  The finance skills include financial statement analysis, understanding advanced financial business decision models, understanding investment selection techniques, and understanding how financial institutions generate earnings and manage risks.  The methodologies studied will come from both quantitative and qualitative areas.  The student that successfully completes the degree is in a position to work in an educational environment at a university level as an instructor/professor or take a variety of research or practitioner oriented positions.  For example, positions could be Economist, Financial Research Specialist, Statistician, Financial Analyst, Budget Analyst, Loan Officer, Financial Manager, Financial Planner, and Investment Banker.

PhD in Business - Computer and Information Security

Work at the highest levels in academics, industry, government, and as a consultant! Enroll in NCU’s PhD in Computer and Information Security Specialization and gain the skills and knowledge needed to serve as a researcher and business leader for security initiatives. Acquire the expertise needed to serve as a computer and information security professor, department chair, and university leader.

This specialization responds to the demand in business and industry for computer security professionals who are trained in cyber-terrorism, computer forensics and computer security. The specialization focuses on developing best practices for forensic investigations and evidence handling, federal and state privacy, intellectual property, search and seizure process, and cyber-crime laws. Students study current techniques in data preservation, identification, and extraction and perform forensic analysis of systems using popular examination toolkits.

PhD in Business - Applied Computer Science

Work at the highest levels in academics, industry, government, and as a consultant! Enroll in NCU’s PhD in Applied Computer Science Specialization and gain the skills and knowledge needed to serve as a researcher and business leader for computer science initiatives. Acquire the expertise needed to serve as a tenure-track computer science professor, department chair, dean, and university leader. This specialization provides preparation for professional careers emphasizing research and development leadership and technology. To maintain a competitive edge, business and research institutions look for leaders who possess advanced knowledge of contemporary computer science methods.

PhD in Business - Advanced Accounting

This specialization provides students with application of a broad accounting perspective and research based accounting knowledge, enabling the exploration of relationships among business activities, economic outcomes, business performance and forensic analysis. Accounting is the language of business and this specialization area sharpens student’s communication skills in the field. Students understand how to scrutinize accounting data and how it is applicable to a successful business. Students will be able to meet the demand for advanced analysis of management and organization of business transactions and statements related to the assets, liabilities, and operating results of business enterprises and nonprofit organizations. Other graduates may find positions in higher education instruction. Students this specialization could hold positions such as accounting professor, researcher, chief accountant, senior audit director, and vice president of accounting to name a few positions.

PhD in Business - Criminal Justice

The PhD Criminal Justice Specialization takes a multi-discipline approach to examining current topics within law enforcement and security practices. Students are challenged to identify issues for problem-solving and offer recommendations. Students in this specialization act as administrators, top-tiered managers, and college professors.

DBA - Management of Engineering and Technology

The Management of Engineering and Technology specialization focuses on integrating practical technical experience with management theory and practice. Focusing on technical expertise in a management environment, the curriculum provides understanding of the synergism between technology and business practices to improve organizational outcomes through awareness of principles of productivity, quality management, and environmental systems management. As technology continues to shape how business is conducted, students will be better aligned with technical experience and management theory and practices. Students will complete a final written research project demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation of a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action.. Graduates could hold positions such as vice president of manufacturing, vice president of engineering, director of engineering, and chief engineering officer.

DBA - Organizational Leadership

Northcentral University's Doctor of Business Administration program in Organizational Leadership is a research-based degree program created for business leaders that concentrates on business management issues.

NCU’s DBA in Organizational Leadership is designed for current and potential business leaders and managers. Students have the opportunity to develop research skills, learn management practices, and gain an understanding of qualitative and quantitative business analysis tools. The organizational leadership specialization emphasis organizational development, capacity building, leadership skills, and strategic planning.

This specialization serves to enhance the understanding and practice of organizational leadership using an interdisciplinary approach between business and education theory and research. This interdisciplinary specialization has broad appeal among practicing professionals (middle and upper management, and military personnel) with a background in business administration, human resources, non-profit administration, and related fields, whose professional goal may be organizational consulting or a generalist leadership position in corporate, government, not-for-profit, educational or community organizations.

Ultimately, students will complete a final written research project demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation on a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action.

DBA - Management

The goal of the DBA-Management specialization is to provide the student with an understanding of modern theory and practice in business administration. Students explore theory and historical frameworks to business in today's global environment through multiple management processes, based on the curriculum selected. The student learns about business organization, management, marketing management entrepreneurship, business and management consulting and much more. After the course graduates are prepared for senior management positions in a corporate environment, higher education, government and public entities, and business consulting.

DBA - Industrial/Organizational Psychology

This specialization explores the practical application of industrial and organizational psychology to the understanding of people in the world of work. In this interdisciplinary specialization, Learners in the DBA program also complete courses in the School of Psychology in order to develop competencies in theory, research, and applications of psychology related to human behavior in organizations. Learners conduct basic and applied research related to the applications of organizational and psychological theory to human resource management. Learners will complete a final written research project (through business), demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation on a work place problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action.

DBA - Management Information Systems

The Management Information Systems specialization combines and applies the best components of both computer systems and management disciplines. The specialization focuses on management of Local Area Network (LAN) / Wide Area Network (WAN) /Database computer information systems to enhance the management decision making process and enterprise business outcomes.  The Management Information Systems specialization prepares students for careers in network and systems management. Students complete a final written research project, demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation on a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action. Graduates could hold positions as consultants, professors of MIS, vice president of MIS and chief information officer.

DBA - International Business

Globalization, or as some would argue regionalization, has transformed not only the world economies but also the power dynamics from developed countries to emerging economies.  The 20th century saw economic and political power in the developed countries.  However, the 21st century is witnessing a change of economic and political power from not only the developed countries but also the emerging economies such as Brazil, India, China and Russia (BRIC).  Further, globalization has introduced many benefits through technology to nearly all the countries in the world.  For example, China, a centrally planned government today has a free market system; a new and successful economic model the world has never witnessed before.  However, the benefits have been matched with many challenges for these same countries; such as child labor practices, corruption, and so on.  Today, it is imperative that global leadership have an in-depth understanding of Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Cultural Intelligence (CI), and avoid ethnocentrism, as well as a self-reference criteria.  Further, global leaders, international marketers, and anyone doing business in a foreign country will meet the challenges of understanding the differences in political, economic, legal, socio-cultural, and environmental systems.  

Therefore, this specialization prepares students with a unique perspective to these issues; by focusing on the essential elements required to understand and manage multinational and international organizations.  Further, this specialization provides students with a comprehensive education and training in interdisciplinary subjects of management, law, government, diplomacy, international studies, economics, finance, and marketing; such as the international business environments, the global market environment, the cultural environment of global business, international strategic management, international business law and its environment, total quality management in international business, and so on, and through the application of rigorous and quality advanced qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and problem-solving techniques.  Students will complete a final written research project, demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation on a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action.  To this end, this specialization helps to prepare students for careers in international leadership and management, international marketing, international consulting and international trade; as well as prepares students for international teaching positions in post-secondary institutions of higher education at home or in a foreign country.

DBA - Computer and Information Security

Work as the Chief Information Security Officer for a Fortune 500 firm, non-profit, small-to-medium sized firm, and government agency! Enroll in NCU’s DBA in Computer and Information Security Specialization and improve your ability to lead, manage, and direct diverse and challenging security projects throughout the global marketplace. Acquire the skills and knowledge needed to serve at the Board of Director level for highly competitive firms. Additionally, use your degree and experience in academia as a professor, manager, or director within schools and colleges of business. The specialization focuses on best practices involved in forensic investigations and evidence handling, federal and state privacy, intellectual property, search and seizure process, and cyber-crime laws. Students study current techniques in data preservation, identification, and extraction and perform forensic analysis of systems using popular examination toolkits.

DBA - Homeland Security Leadership & Policy

This doctoral specialization is focuses on developing senior leaders of public administration, law enforcement, public safety, and emergency medical care and disaster preparedness agencies for executive leadership positions in the field of homeland security. Students are provided with a rigorous educational opportunity to research and explore advanced concepts and methods, and apply theory and emerging concepts to real world issues through innovative approaches to complex problems. Students will choose from a number of courses that cover terrorism, strategy, intelligence, emergency management, and critical infrastructure security issues. Students will complete a final written research project demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation on a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action. Graduates are prepared to assume senior executive positions in government from local to federal levels with an emphasis on the practical application of concepts.

EdD - Curriculum and Teaching

The Doctor of Education degree in Curriculum and Teaching at Northcentral University is a unique program designed for those with a passion for research and application of best practices through superior instructional approaches and curriculum design. In this specialization, you will be equipped with research skills, best practices in the field, and tools to implement curriculum in a wide variety of settings. You will learn to analyze instructional strategies, integrate curriculum models and theory, infuse technology, assess curricular trends, and apply differentiated instructional modalities to ensure high academic and professional achievement in and out of the classroom.

In your Curriculum and Teaching EdS courses, you will work One-to-One with faculty while utilizing distance learning methodologies for an education experience that is flexible, relevant and personalized. As an EdD in Curriculum and Teaching graduate, you will be prepared to pursue careers in higher education or industry with your skills in curriculum application and development.

EdD - E-Learning

E-learning continues to evolve in the teaching and learning environment through all levels of education, as well as training centers for business and industry. In many ways, e-learning has become an everyday occurrence that encompasses a variety of formats, including completely online class offerings, hybrid classes, and web enhanced on-campus classroom environments.

The Doctor of Education in E-Learning at Northcentral University explores and provides you with hands-on application of the e-learning environment, including visioning, planning, and designing an e-learning environment; the legal aspects of e-learning; technology resources; teaching and learning in synchronous and asynchronous environments; and instructional design for e-learning.

EdD - English Second Language

The pedagogy of language acquisition is of extreme importance in both educational and corporate environments. English as a Second Language is becoming more popular as the number of students and workers whose native language is not English seek an education and/or employment in the United States, and the increasing development of our diverse global marketplace.  The Doctor of Education degree in English as a Second Language (ESL) at Northcentral University will provide you with a strong knowledgebase to build successful programs to support those who are learning English as a second language, assess skills of diverse students, and design bilingual instruction.

In your ESL EdD courses, you will explore curriculum design, the basics of second language curricular needs, and how to adapt the content curriculum for ESL student. You will also analyze effective teaching methods, and critically examine the theoretical foundations and recent research findings that inform second language classroom practices. As an EdD in ESL graduate, you will have the knowledge and the skill to put new methods and approaches into practice in many diverse settings, and serve as a role model and leader for others involved with ESL teaching and learning.

EdD - Leadership in Higher Education

The Doctor of Education in Leadership in Higher Education at Northcentral University digs deep into a variety of topics specific to higher education, such as how higher education is organized, how it is financed, legal issues, and the history of higher education, and will provide you with knowledge of educational leadership research, theory and practices applicable to higher education.

In your courses, you will conduct action or applied research to identify future directions of national and global higher education leadership. As an EdD in Leadership in Higher Education graduate, you will have the knowledge and skills that can prepare you to lead organizations in higher education.

EdD - Organizational Leadership

The Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership at Northcentral University is designed to equip you with the tools necessary to forge alliances, build confidence, and inspire a shared vision with members of a team.  This curriculum is grounded in applied research, and you will have the opportunity to explore organizational issues and resolutions in contemporary organizations.  

As an EdD in Organizational Leadership graduate, you will be prepared to pursue a variety of positions in higher education, K-12 education, corporate training and development organizations, not for profit organizations, or in government training and development.

EdD - Special Education

In the Doctor of Education in Special Education at Northcentral University, you will investigate specific court and legal cases, federal mandates, case studies, and application opportunities related to the six pillars of Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA). Student placement, service delivery requirements, discipline, appropriate educational decisions, family rights, and privacy issues will be addressed, and you will explore challenging legal issues facing current administrators of special education programs, especially preparation for due process hearings as well as manifestation determination meetings.

As an EdD in Special Education graduate, you will be prepared to utilize your knowledge and skills in pursuit of various careers, such as a school district administrator of special education programs or a university position preparing special education students at initial certification or advanced levels.

PhD in Education - Curriculum and Teaching

If you are interested in developing a strong knowledgebase of current practices, contemporary teaching issues and research while establishing your leadership skills, the PhD in Curriculum and Teaching at Northcentral University may be for you. This is a unique specialization designed for those with a passion for research and application of best teaching through superior instructional approaches and curriculum design in K-12, corporate and higher education settings.

In your Curriculum and Teaching PhD courses, you will expand your research skills, while exploring best practices in the field and tools to implement curriculum in a wide variety of settings. You will analyze instructional strategies, learn how to integrate curriculum models, theory and technology, assess curricular trends, and apply differentiated instructional modalities to ensure high academic and professional achievement inside and outside the classroom.

PhD in Education - E-Learning

E-learning is growing and continues to evolve, with everything from completely online class offerings, including massive open online courses (MOOCs), and hybrid classes, to web-enhanced on-campus classroom environments. The Doctor of Philosophy in Education in E-Learning at Northcentral University will develop your knowledgebase in curriculum development, design, and course delivery using technology and online learning management systems.

In your E-Learning PhD courses, you will research and practice hands-on application in visioning, planning, and designing an e-learning environment. You will also examine the legal aspects of e-learning; technology resources; teaching and learning in synchronous and asynchronous environments; and instructional design for e-learning as you work One-to-One with a member of our 100% doctoral faculty in each of your courses.

PhD in Education - Early Childhood Education

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education with a specialization in Early Childhood Education at Northcentral University is designed to help you develop an understanding of the breadth and depth of early childhood education research, curriculum and policy. This specialization is competency-based and emphasizes research a teaching across a broad spectrum of topics, including childhood development, literature, program administration, curriculum and assessment, and stakeholder partnerships.

As a PhD in Early Childhood Education graduate, you will be prepared to pursue leadership positions in schools, higher education organizations and research settings in various areas, including educational assessment, curricula development, education research, administration and instruction, education policy, teacher training, teaching, and advocacy addressing children from birth though age 8.

PhD in Education - Educational Leadership

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education degree in Educational Leadership at Northcentral University will help you gain knowledge and skills in K-12 education as you work to become an independent scholar and leader in the field of education.  In your Educational Leadership PhD courses, you will learn to address management and leadership issues in education, such as school law, safety and diversity. You will also develop your leadership skills in implementing training programs, and recognizing excellence in teaching, conducting research, and service.

In this specialization,  you will have the benefit of working One-to-One with our 100% doctoral faculty in each of your courses who will provide you with valuable feedback and support. As a PhD in Educational Leadership graduate, you will be prepared to lead others and conduct original research to advance the field of knowledge in educational leadership.

PhD in Education - English Second Language

Language acquisition is an essential component in today’s classrooms as students and workers who do not speak English are seeking expanded education and/or work opportunities in our diverse global marketplace. The PhD in English as a Second Language (ESL) at Northcentral University will provide you with a strong knowledgebase in assessing skills of diverse students, designing bilingual instruction for other involved with ESL teaching and learning, and conducting research to advance this field.

As a PhD in ESL graduate, you will be prepared to research, teach, and build successful programs to support those who are learning English as a second language.

PhD in Education - Leadership in Higher Education

The ability to influence educational change through policy and educational reform requires a broad knowledgebase of how higher education works. In the PhD in Education program with a specialization in Leadership in Higher Education at Northcentral University, you will explore a variety of topics specific to higher education, including how higher education is organized, how it is financed, legal issues, and the history of higher education.

You will have the opportunity to take an in depth look at community colleges, and will conduct research and analysis to identify future directions of national and global higher education. As a PhD in Leadership in Higher Education graduate, you will be prepared to pursue positions as an educator in higher education institutions with a research agenda, or researcher for organizations focusing on the direction of higher education.

PhD in Education - Organizational Leadership

The PhD in Education with a specialization in Organizational Leadership at Northcentral University examines theories of leadership roles in education, corporate, government, or community organizations. Throughout this program, you will concentrate on developing skills to forge alliances, build confidence and inspire a shared vision with members of a team.

The Organizational Leadership PhD curriculum is based on research, and you will explore issues and resolutions in contemporary organizations and the opportunity to contribute new knowledge in the field. As a PhD in Organizational Leadership graduate, you could pursue positions as a college or university professor, work exclusively in research, or work for an organization with an interest in leadership in an organizational setting.

PhD in Education - Special Education

The PhD in Education with a specialization in Special Education will provide you with the knowledge and skills to implement the six pillars of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA).  You will investigate specific court and legal cases, federal mandates, case studies, and application opportunities, with an emphasis on case law and research that addresses course-based concepts.

You will also advance your knowledge and skills in student placement, service delivery requirements, discipline, appropriate educational decisions, family rights, and privacy issues, and the skills to interact with special education administrators from a local district or university. As a PhD in Special Education graduate, you will be prepared to pursue positions as school district administrator of special education programs or university positions where you will prepare special education students at initial certification or advanced levels.

PhD in Education - Sports Management

If you are looking to increase your knowledge and leadership expertise in the fields of sports management and athletic administration, the PhD in Education with a specialization in Sports Management at Northcentral University may be for you. This specialization combines science-based academics, research methods, and real life experiences and practical application with an emphasis on the ever-changing financial, legal, political and marketing concerns within the collegiate athletic environment.

As a PhD in Sports Management graduate, you will have a deep understanding of compliance, Title IX, legal aspects, and advisement programs for the student athlete, and will be prepared to conduct research exploring working problems within the profession in order to discern solutions, and build an understanding of educational theories related to this field.

PhD in MFT - Child and Adolescent Therapy

As children and adolescents grow and interact with their environment, they impact their families and their families impact them. This creates a complex developmental process for everyone involved.  To be effective in working with children and adolescents, family therapists need to be able to effectively assess this process, as well as connect research and practice to deliver evidence-based, contextually sensitive, culturally informed, and developmentally appropriate services.  As such, the goal of the Child and Adolescent specialization in the PhD Marriage and Family Therapy degree program at Northcentral University is to equip doctoral-level therapists and researchers to be well prepared to respond to the needs of children and adolescents through therapy and programming, to engage in meaningful research projects, and to become leaders in the profession.

PhD in MFT - Couple Therapy

Divorce rates are hovering between 50 and 60 percent. Likewise, the incidence of couple violence is estimated to be a reality for 40 percent of couples, and up to 70 percent of couples experience infidelity of some kind.  Statistics like this highlight the importance of therapists receiving training in the area of couple relationships.  Over 80 percent of therapists report treating couple’s issues while less than 12 percent are in a profession that requires even one formal class in the treatment of these and similar issues.   The goal of the Couples Therapy specialization in the PhD Marriage & Family Therapy degree program at Northcentral University is to equip doctoral-level therapists and researchers to become skillful clinicians and frontrunners in this complex area of mental health treatment. In addition to the standard curriculum of the PhD program, this specialized includes eighteen (18) credit hours specifically focused on preparing our graduates to become experts in couple’s therapy.  

Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy - General Family Therapy

Families face so many problems, yet so often display amazing strengths. However, families often need the help of competent researchers and therapists who are current in this rapidly changing field, appreciate the broad knowledge base of the MFT profession, and are interested in making a difference. The General Family Therapy specialization is designed to accommodate individual student’s broad interests and career plans within a degree plan that prepares them for work in our global and multicultural world.  Students in this focus are expected to engage in collaborative research, advanced clinical training, and meaningful educational experiences to advance their careers as mental health professionals.  Students in this specialization track will be able to select content courses from across the existing MFT specializations.  The outcome of this preparation is for graduates to become well-trained scholar practitioners who can contribute to the field of family therapy as clinicians, supervisors, researchers and/or academics.

PhD in MFT - Medical Family Therapy

When a member of the family becomes ill, the focus of the family is reoriented to center on health issues. This usually means arrangement for and attendance at appointments and medical tests, rearranging work schedules, and a lot of concern and worry for all family members. Concern about health issues becomes the family priority and the future can appear uncertain and frightening.  Medical family therapy is the application of systems theory and taking a systems approach to conducting psychotherapy with patients and their families.  This unique approach addresses the systemic interactions among patients, their families, their doctors and other healthcare professionals.  At NCU, the Medical Family Therapy specialization is designed to prepare students to work effectively with individuals, couples and families that are facing chronic or acute medical difficulties.  Students in the Medical Family Therapy specialization are introduced to this growing field and are prepared to compete and succeed in careers as Medical Family Therapy clinicians and researchers.

PhD in MFT- Military Families

The number of families impacted by military service continues to increase.  Therapists need to be equipped to understand the unique challenges of military families as well as military culture. Issues related to emotional and physical trauma, repeated deployments, post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, and substance abuse impact service members and their families.  At present, Northcentral University is the only Marriage and Family Therapy training program that offers a specialization in working with families impacted by military service.   This specialization was designed to meet a growing need of service members who return from active duty and attempt to acculturate back into their daily lives, as well as those families that attempt to recover from the loss of their husband, wife, father, mother, son or daughter who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.  All branches of military service see the need for therapists trained to work with the unique needs of military families and are looking for qualified therapists to work with these families.  Northcentral University is at the forefront of training skilled clinicians and researchers to meet the needs of our military families.

PhD in Psychology - Gender Diversity Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology program in Gender Diversity Studies reflects Northcentral University’s goal to train students who can serve today’s diverse communities, and is an excellent option if you want to further examine the social, cultural and biological foundations of human sexuality, gender and sexual orientation. It is absolutely critical that mental health providers and educators exhibit sensitivity to the myriad of issues, challenges and changes in our current understanding of mental health, gender and healthy sexuality.  In this specialization, you will gain expertise in theory and research skills and develop ways to apply your learning about gender diversity in your own community.

Throughout your courses, you will benefit from working One-to-One with faculty who are experts in their field and who will provide you with valuable feedback and support. This specialization expands the breadth of knowledge for existing mental health caregivers, and prepares you to serve as researchers, educators, and consultants in this extremely important field.

PhD in Psychology - General Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology program in General Psychology at Northcentral University gives you the opportunity to develop a broad base of knowledge, strong research and critical thinking skills, and an appreciation for diversity as you work to apply principles of psychology and conduct research related to your area of interest. In our One-to-One Teaching Model, you will be partnered with one of our 100% doctoral faculty in each of your courses who will provide valuable feedback and support to help you understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and global issues. You will also further develop your scholarly communication skills in order to successfully convey your knowledge to the professional community and to society at large.  

You will develop a strong core of psychological knowledge, including expertise in the biological and social bases for behavior, the fascinating process of human development, the amazing history of psychology and its impact on today’s culture, and the role of ethics and diversity training in psychology. The General Psychology specialization also gives you the chance to take elective courses to further your own particular interests. You can even opt to do independent study and research with one of our expert instructors to delve deeper into a topic of your choice.

PhD in Psychology - Industrial Organizational Psychology

Northcentral University offers a robust Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology program in Industrial Organizational Psychology (IOP). You’ll work with expert faculty who will provide One-to-One feedback and support as you learn to apply psychological theories to critical issues in the fields of business and industry. As you work through the courses, you will become adept at small group theory and team processes, dynamics of leadership and management, and the structure and procedures of organizational development. The application of tests and measurements, and the interpretation of their results as applied to employee selection, performance appraisals, and training evaluations are additional skills that you can expect to learn in this specialization.

The IOP specialization in the PhD in Psychology program at Northcentral will prepare you to assume leadership positions in industry, government, consulting and education in various fields, such as research, coaching, human resource development, consumer behavior analysis, workplace planning, market strategy, personnel specialist,  and talent acquisition.

Doctor of Philosophy - Mental Health Policy and Practice

The Doctor of Philosophy in Mental Health Policy and Practice at Northcentral University will help you develop a deeper understanding of mental health through an evidence-based practice approach. This specialization offers a strong base in theory and research, promotes an awareness of ethics and a respect for diversity, and will help you advance your critical thinking and communication skills. Throughout your courses, you will appraise literature on the application of behavioral health and organizational management, develop a working knowledge of forensic casework, and gain an in-depth understanding of financial issues related to mental health policy and practice. As part of NCU’s distinctive One-to-One Teaching Model, faculty will provide you with personalized support and feedback as you work to apply your learning to your profession.

As a PhD graduate, you will be prepared to assume senior leadership positions in your community in the field of behavioral health service organization and delivery, state government, or private enterprise. You will also have the skills to supervise therapists and psychologists with varying backgrounds and training, and teach at the graduate level.

Education Specialist - Curriculum and Teaching

The Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Teaching at Northcentral University utilizes distance learning methodologies and One-to-One faculty mentoring to provide passionate educators and administrators like you with advanced skills in research and curriculum development and application. You will analyze instructional strategies, curriculum models, theories and trends as you apply differentiated instructional modalities to real world situations that will ensure high academic and professional achievement inside and outside the classroom. 

This specialization is designed to fuel your interest in research and advanced application of topics related to curriculum and teaching. As an EdS in Curriculum and Teaching graduate, you will be prepared to pursue careers in higher education or industry with expert skills in curriculum application and development and advanced knowledge and skills at all levels of education and industry. The EdS degree program can also prepare you for further doctoral study in Curriculum and Teaching.

Education Specialist - E-Learning

The use of technology and educational media continues to become more widespread in all levels of education, as well as training centers for business and industry. The Education Specialist degree in E-Learning will train you as a specialist who has the ability to integrate curriculum development, instructional design and course delivery using technology and online learning management systems.

E-Learning EdS courses integrate curriculum development, instructional design and course delivery using technology and online learning management systems. You will explore the legal aspects of e-learning; visioning, planning and designing an e-learning environment; and teaching and learning in synchronous and asynchronous environments.

Education Specialist - English Second Language

Language acquisition is of extreme importance in today’s diverse educational and corporate environments. The Education Specialist degree in English as a Second Language (ESL) will help you develop the ability to build successful programs to support those who are learning English as a second language, assess the skills of diverse students, and design bilingual instruction.

This specialization will provide you with a strong knowledgebase to put new methods and approaches into practice. As an EdS in ESL graduate, you will have the knowledge and skills to serve as a leader for others involved with ESL teaching and learning in many diverse settings. The EdS degree can also prepare you for doctoral studies in English as a Second Language should you desire to advance your education further.                                                                                                                                           

Education Specialist - Global Training and Development

Through a combination of theory, research and practical application, the Education Specialist degree in Global Training and Development at Northcentral University will prepare you to become a leader in the field of training and performance improvement. In Global Training and Development courses, you will critically analyze training needs and strategize how performance improvement and training materials should be designed. You will also examine theoretical and practical information in adult education and human resources, and research and review strategies for future effectiveness. 

As an EdS in Global Training and Development graduate, you will advance your systemic leadership and organizational capacity. The EdS program also prepares you for doctoral learning in Global Training and Development should you choose to advance your education even further.

Education Specialist - Instructional Leadership

Specialists in K-12 instruction leadership are needed to expand student achievement through the assessment and improvement of instructional strategies. The Education Specialist program in Instructional Leadership at Northcentral University will provide you with a strong background in the supervision of instruction, curriculum, diversity and analysis of the instructional capacity of K-12 schools.

You will explore current theories and practices that can help improve student achievement. You will also learn to assess and interpret data, and examine the culture of learning and instructional improvement and reform.

Education Specialist - International Education

The Education Specialist degree in International Education at Northcentral University will teach you the knowledge and skills needed to work effectively within the context of global economic, political, cultural and community influences in education. In this specialization, you will explore theories of comparative education, cross-national comparative analysis and strategies, global educational transfer and borrowing, international development, and the relation between culture and education.

Through assigned readings and course assignments, you will examine the global dimensions of several contemporary issues in international education, including the hopes of global cooperation, the complexity of educational accountability, authority and professionalism. You will also study international organizations, with special emphasis on practices, strategies and techniques that can be adapted to intercultural/multicultural contexts.

Education Specialist - Leadership in Higher Education

Leaders in higher education require a broad knowledgebase of the ins and outs of higher education. The Education Specialist degree in Leadership in Higher Education at Northcentral University digs deep into a variety of topics specific to higher education, and will familiarize you with how higher education is organized, how it is financed, legal issues, and the history of higher education. 

As an EdS in Leadership in Higher Education graduate, you will be prepared to share your knowledge and skill about higher education in colleges, universities, and community colleges. The EdS can also prepare you to pursue doctoral studies in Leadership in Higher Education should you choose to further your education.

Education Specialist - Organizational Leadership

If you aspire to hold a leadership role in education, corporate, government or community organizations, the Education Specialist with a specialization in Organizational Leadership at Northcentral University may be for you. As you work through the Organizational Leadership EdS courses, you will develop the knowledge and tools to forge alliances, build confidence, resolve conflict, promote ethics and inspire a shared vision. 

As a EdS in Organizational Leadership graduate, you will be prepared to pursue a variety of positions in higher education, K-12 education, corporate training and development organizations, not for profit organizations, or in government training and development. The EdS can also prepare you to pursue doctoral studies in Organizational Leadership.

Education Specialist - Special Education

The world needs educators and administrators of special education programs who can successfully implement the six pillars of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA). The Education Specialist degree in Special Education at Northcentral University will prepare you to face the challenging legal issues confronting current administrators of special education programs.

As you work through the Special Education EdS courses, you will explore essential topics related to special education, including student placement, service delivery requirements, discipline, appropriate educational decisions, family rights, and privacy issues. You will also learn how to prepare for due process hearings and manifestation determination meetings.

Education Specialist - Sports Management

The Education Specialist degree with a specialization in Sports Management at Northcentral University provides you with an opportunity to increase your leadership expertise in this growing field as you explore a combination of science-based academics, research methods, and real life experiences within the collegiate athletic department.

Throughout this specialization, you will examine the ever-changing financial, legal, political and marketing concerns of directing an athletic department at the collegiate level. You will also develop your understanding of Title IX, legal aspects, and advisement programs for the student athlete as you work One-to-One with experienced faculty members who have had many years of successful athletic administration experience at the collegiate level.

Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy

According to the 2012 Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment in the Marriage and Family Therapy field is expected to grow much faster than average (41 percent). Northcentral University’s Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Master’s program is designed to prepare graduates to meet this growing demand.  Most importantly, the NCU MFT program is structured to work with adults that may need more flexibility than is found in most on-campus programs.  Northcentral University is regionally accreditated, which should allow graduates to meet the MFT licensing requirements in most states. There is no physical residency requirement, which means students are able to complete all their course work online and to secure a clinical placement site in their local community to complete the face-to-face clinical training component of the program.  All courses are taught by faculty with a PhD who possess significant experience teaching in the field of MFT and working as MFTs.

MA in Psychology - General Psychology

The Master of Arts in Psychology program in General Psychology provides you with the opportunity to develop a broad base of knowledge, strong research and critical thinking skills, and an appreciation for diversity as you tailor your education to match your career interests and goals. Through a distinctive One-to-One Teaching Model, faculty will provide you with feedback and support that will help you understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and global issues, and do so in a way that reflects the highest level of professional ethics. You will also have the opportunity to develop up-to-date, scholarly communication skills to convey your knowledge to the professional community and to society at large.  

Throughout your courses, you will develop a strong core of psychological knowledge, which you will partner with elective courses that further your own particular interests. You will gain expertise in the biological and social bases for behavior, the fascinating process of human development, the amazing history of psychology and its impact on today’s culture, and the role of ethics and diversity training in psychology.

MA in Psychology - Industrial Organizational Psychology

The Master of Arts in Psychology degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology (IOP) at Northcentral University is an excellent option if you want to develop your skills in conducting basic and applied research and apply it to organizational and human resource management issues. You’ll benefit from working One-to-One with expert faculty who will provided valuable feedback and support while you lean to apply psychological theories to critical issues in today’s business and industry fields.

You will become adept at small group theory and team processes, dynamics of leadership and management, and the structure and procedures of organizational development.   The application of tests and measurements, and the interpretation of their results as applied to employee selection, performance appraisals, and training evaluations are additional skills you can expect to learn throughout this specialization.

MEd - Adult Learning and Workforce Education

Career development, human resource management, and adult learning are becoming increasingly important as more organizations recognize the value of well-developed training and education programs for their workforce. Organizations need professionals with knowledge and skills in development, implementation, and management, in order to improve individual and organizational performance.

The skills and knowledge learned in the MEd with a specialization in Adult Learning and Workforce Education program translate across a wide range of industries including higher education, workforce development agencies, human resource departments and organizations, and adult career centers. The courses provide you with an opportunity to learn the tools and competencies required to critically reflect on workplace issues, solve organizational problems, develop programs and training to increase overall performance, and anticipate and respond to change. As an Adult Learning and Workforce Education graduate, you will also be prepared to influence public policy and organizational decision-making as it relates to the workforce. 

MEd - Early Childhood Education

Experienced educators construct an atmosphere that serves as a foundation for a child's health and well-being. If you have a desire to model, coach and guide young children through the first years of life when social, physical, cognitive, and emotional development occur, Northcentral University’s MEd in Early Childhood Education is a great choice for you.

You will learn to assess educational potential, create instructional programs, direct and coordinate learning activities, and manage early childhood classrooms. As an Early Childhood Education graduate, you will be prepared to pursue positions at public or private schools, daycare centers, kindergarten institutions or community colleges, such as curriculum developer, manager or administrator, early childhood consultant, and early childhood case manager.

Master of Education - Accelerated Educational Leadership

Education professionals who want to attain higher positions of leadership in education, such as higher education specialists and managers, need to have a strong knowledgebase of the ins-and-outs of higher education with an emphasis on applying their knowledge and skills to make a difference in the field.  Northcentral University’s accelerated MEd track for the Educational Leadership specialization gives students the opportunity to explore the history of higher education and traditional and contemporary models and theories, related legal and financial issues, and even curriculum development in a compressed amount of time. In order to complete this program in the one-year time frame, students should expect to devote at least 30 hours a week to their program and manage their time efficiently.

Master of Education - Accelerated Leadership in Higher Education

K-12 leaders must possess the knowledge to assess current education trends and address the ever-changing conditions of education today. Northcentral University’s Accelerated MEd track for the Leadership in Higher Education specialization gives students the opportunity to advance their understanding of the values and practices in historical and modern education in just one year. Students will explore educational reform, while evaluating the needs of diverse student populations in order to improve educational outcomes and advance as a teacher leader. In order to complete this program in a compressed amount of time, students should expect to devote at least 30 hours a week to their program and manage their time efficiently.

Note: This is not a certification-granting program and will not prepare students to become K-12 principals.

MEd - Educational Leadership

Education at all levels is changing for many reasons. Northcentral University’s MEd in Educational Leadership can help you acquire the knowledge and skills to assess current K-12 education trends and address these ever-changing conditions of education today.

You will explore educational reform from a current and historical perspective, and develop the skills that can help you guide and transform education as you evaluate the needs of diverse student populations and work to improve educational outcomes. As an Educational Leadership graduate, you will be positioned to pursue leadership roles in your current educational environment.

MEd - English Second Language

Children of immigrants are increasing in number throughout the United States, and the English language continues to be widely used as a second language around the world. How are you preparing yourself to meet these opportunities and challenges?

The MEd in English as a Second Language (ESL) will prepare you to integrate communication techniques to successfully instruct students in English proficiency and meet the needs of all of your second language learners. You will also develop the skills and knowledge to put these methods and approaches into practice within the setting of your classroom, school, district, and state.

MEd - General Education

The Master of Education degree in General Education at Northcentral University provides you with the opportunity to develop a broad base of knowledge, and research and critical thinking skills as you tailor your education to match your career interests and goals. You will work One-to-One with faculty who will provide you with valuable feedback and support in each of your classes as you further your understanding of education theory and best practices and how to apply these principles in your profession.

Throughout the program, you will develop a strong core of education and research knowledge, which you will partner with elective courses that further your own particular interests.

Master of Education - International Education

The Master of Education degree in International Education at Northcentral University is designed to help you develop the skills needed to be an effective educator in a global society. You will explore concepts and theories of education systems around the world, including the cultural and historical bases of these systems and the spread of educational trends across the globe. You will also examine educational systems comparatively and evaluate connections between diverse education systems, international education policy, and various theories of comparative education.

You will explore theories and definitions related to international development, and will be required to consider the challenges of reform and unique practices in international contexts, including global education organizations, international NGOs, and international formal systems of education. You will also have the opportunity to explore diverse topics ranging from International Baccalaureate Programs to methods of contextualizing international higher education, and will be encouraged to act as a change agent ready to expand the outlook of educational programs and examine education from a global perspective as you prepare for careers in international and community-based organizations.

MEd - Leadership in Higher Education

The Master of Education degree in Leadership and Higher Education at Northcentral University is an excellent choice if you are interested in pursuing a career as a higher education specialist or manager.  You will develop a strong knowledgebase of the ins-and-outs of higher education as you explore a variety of topics specific to higher education, such as how higher education is organized, how it is financed, legal issues, and the history of higher education. You will also have the option to take an in depth look at community colleges, an important part of higher education.

This specialization emphasizes application, and you will work One-to-One with experienced faculty in each of your courses to really focus on how you can apply what you learn to the real world as you continue to advance your knowledge and skills.

MEd - Organizational Leadership

Most institutions need strong organizational leaders. The Master of Education degree in Organizational Leadership at Northcentral University can help you develop skills to be an effective organizational leader in areas such as conflict resolution, organizational capacity, and executive leadership. Throughout this program, you will develop a strong knowledgebase in the practice of leadership in a variety of fields. You will examine the intrinsic role of mission, vision, purpose, and core values in the development of an organization, and the essential elements of effective leadership, dynamic cultures and an interactive community, and their influence in shaping organizational health and wellness.

As an Organizational Leadership graduate, you will be prepared to pursue leadership positions in education and corporate training environments.

MEd - Special Education

The Master of Education degree in Special Education at Northcentral University is designed to provide you with a current understanding of the characteristics and needs of individuals qualifying for services under the major areas of exceptionality of the law (IDEA/IDEIA). In this specialization, you will focus on research results, new assessment models, and current perspectives on today’s children, families, schools and communities. You will study a range of topics, including the history of the special education movement, the provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, inclusion, transition, classroom modifications, and instructional strategies. You will also study how various disabilities may affect individuals and their families, factors that place students at risk, cultural and linguistic diversity, and giftedness.

As a MEd in Special Education graduate, you will be prepared to pursue roles as lead teachers or department heads of special education within PK-12 educational settings, with the ability to assess and implement specifically designed curriculum for students with disabilities and gifted abilities.