Wiley University Launches First-Ever Executive Ph.D. in Business Administration

Wiley University in Marshall, Texas, has received approval to offer its first doctoral degree, an executive Ph.D. in business administration. According to the university, the 24-month online/hybrid program targets working professionals and offers concentrations in entrepreneurship, faith-based administration, or data science, artificial intelligence, and business innovation.

The program aims to prepare entrepreneurs, executive leaders, scholars, educators, and administrators to solve complex organizational challenges. University officials stated the degree is designed to help students conduct original research and create impact within industry, education, faith-based organizations, and community-centered institutions.

How is the executive Ph.D. structured?

The doctorate utilizes a hybrid format that combines online learning with in-person intensive residences. Students must complete the program within a 24-month timeframe.

Candidates can specialize in one of three distinct concentrations. These include entrepreneurship, faith-based administration, or a track focused on business innovation, data science, and artificial intelligence.

Did You Know? Wiley University was founded 153 years ago in the piney woods of East Texas for the formerly enslaved.

Why does this degree mark a milestone for the university?

President Herman J. Felton, Jr. described the approval as the fulfillment of a long-term vision in a letter to the campus community. Felton wrote that while the school’s founders originally dreamed of literacy, that dream now “confers doctorates.”

The move expands the institution’s academic offerings to the highest degree level. It shifts the university’s capability from undergraduate and master’s level instruction to doctoral research.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that integrating AI and data science into an executive Ph.D. allows an institution to bridge the gap between traditional business administration and the technical demands of modern industry. This alignment may increase the competitiveness of graduates in high-tech corporate environments.

What happens next for applicants?

Applications are currently open for the program’s inaugural cohort. The first group of students is scheduled to begin in the Spring 2027 term.

Wiley College 2022 graduates earn degrees without debt thanks to donation

The introduction of this program could lead to an increase in original research produced by the university. It may also expand the institution’s influence across faith-based and community-centered organizational leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

What concentrations are available in the Ph.D. program?
Students can choose from entrepreneurship, faith-based administration, or data science, artificial intelligence, and business innovation.

How long does it take to complete the degree?
The program is offered in a 24-month format.

Who is the target audience for this doctorate?
The degree is designed for working professionals, including executive leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, administrators, and scholars.

How do you think the addition of AI and data science concentrations will impact executive leadership in community-centered institutions?