Community College Leadership Online

  • Doctor of Philosophy
  • Darden College of Education & Professional Studies
  • Department of Educational Foundations & Leadership
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Why ODU for Community College Leadership?

Do you want to pursue a leadership role in the community college setting? Are you dedicated to the mission and philosophy of community colleges? This online doctoral program is for you!

This online community college leadership program's curriculum was developed with the input of current community college leaders.

You will learn about workforce development, student issues, and the community college role in higher education, and be prepared to serve in key leadership positions in community colleges around the nation.

When you graduate, you will earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Community College Leadership.

Want to learn more? Contact us!











  • Required Courses

    • 54 credit hours, including one internship/experiential learning course
    • Prior course work is assumed in statistics, student development, workforce development, and leadership theory. If this assumption is not met, then additional course work will be added to your program of study.

    First- and second-year students in this doctoral program must come to ODU's main campus in June for two weeks of intensive coursework and preparation for the dissertation process.

  • Online Learning Environment

    Attend class online on a regular schedule and access course materials online from any location. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

    This program also requires an internship/experiential learning course. First and second-year students in this doctoral program must come to ODU main campus in June for two weeks of intensive coursework and preparation for the dissertation process.

  • Careers in Community College Leadership

    The program is designed for those currently working in community colleges who want to increase knowledge and leadership opportunities in areas such as:

    • Curriculum
    • Finance
    • Leadership & administration
    • Policy development
    • Workforce development

  • Calculating Cost

    In-state Virginia Residents
    $599 per credit hour*
    Out-of-state Students
    $623 per credit hour

    Rates are effective Fall 2023 and subject to change.
    * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Meet Your Team

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

Ready to get started?

  • How to Apply

    Admission to this program is in addition to general admission to the university.

    GRE is not required. Learn more about how to apply to the Community College Leadership PhD program on the department's website.

  • Want to get started now?

    You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program. 

    Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.