Doctor of
Strategic Leadership
Graduate
Program Overview
Oral Roberts University's Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) is an immersive, on-campus program designed for mid-to-senior level professionals who are driven by purpose and eager to address real-world challenges through hands-on research. Upon graduation, DSL alumni will be empowered to reshape their future, lead transformative change, and nurture talent through effective coaching.
What sets ORU apart is its holistic approach to education—nurturing the spirit, mind, and body—preparing you to become a Spirit-empowered leader with a doctoral degree. You’ll be equipped to step confidently into your calling as a well-rounded leader who inspires individuals, teams, and organizations to fulfill their God-given potential.
The Doctor of Strategic Leadership is ORU's prestigious, award-winning doctoral program! With students from across the globe and esteemed faculty, you’ll experience meaningful transformation in both your professional career and personal life.
WHAT CONCENTRATIONS CAN I CHOOSE?
In the second year of the DSL program, students build on foundational core courses and prepare for their doctoral project by completing a 3-course concentration. This concentration qualifies you to sit for a credentialing exam in one of the following areas:
- Applied Research
- Leadership Coaching
- Change Management
- Strategic Foresight
Through the Doctor of Strategic Leadership program, you will gain a strong foundation in both theory and practical skills essential for driving organizational success.
Will a DSL advance my career?
This degree will enhance your professional journey, regardless of your industry:
- Communication & Media
- Educational Services
- Faith Communities
- Government & Public Services
- Healthcare Services
- Information Systems
- Management Services
- Military, Defense & Security
Which courses will I take?
- Spirit-Empowered Leadership
- Critical Inquiry & Research Methods
- Coaching & Talent Development
- Organizational Culture & Design
- Modeling Systems Change
- Global Entrepreneurship
- Collaborative Leadership
- Innovation & Change Management
- Decision and Data Analytics
How long will it take to complete my degree?
The DSL program is a 48-credit hour low-residency program designed to accommodate your work and family commitments while you pursue your degree. You’ll need to be on campus three times per year. By enrolling full-time, you can finish the degree in as little as 33 months. ORU students typically take one 3-credit course each 7-week term. With two courses per semester—Fall, Spring, and Summer—students earn 18 credits annually, allowing most to graduate in three years or less.
Are there scholarships available?
There are several scholarships available to on-campus students in the DSL Program. To learn more about financial aid and graduate scholarships in the Graduate School of the College of Arts & Cultures Studies, click here.