Northcentral University

Families today experience many emotional challenges throughout their lifecycles, and it can take a broad understanding from a caring counselor to help them overcome. The General Family Therapy specialization allows you to select courses from a wide range of electives to fit your state’s requirements, as well as to suit your personal and professional ambitions. In this specialization, you will be required to complete your content courses, including the research projects and clinical experience in areas related to marriage and family therapy.

Medical challenges can often overwhelm a family emotionally and the guidance of a trained professional can make the difference. The Medical Family Therapy specialization is designed to prepare you to work with individuals, couples and family who are facing chronic and acute medical difficulties. Medical Family Therapy incorporates a family therapy, systems perspective in helping clients to understand and manage their medical difficulties. In this specialization you will be required to complete two focused content courses, a research course focused on issues related to medical family therapy, and at least 100 hours of clinical experience in an approved medical setting with a qualified local clinical supervisor.

Northcentral University’s Trauma Informed Systemic Therapy specialization is designed for students pursuing their Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. It is ideal for students interested in helping people cope with the effects of traumatic events. Courses in this specialization align with the International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP) and cover topics such as the nature and impact of psychological trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder and the human capacity for healing. Students will also learn about the historical and theoretical foundations of trauma, crisis-related issues in marriage and family therapy and system-based theories and models in the context of family violence.

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.

The MBA in Entrepreneurship specialization takes students beyond the classroom, helping them build and test their entrepreneurial ideas in real-world settings. The entrepreneurship courses integrate all business disciplines, including marketing, finance, operations, and strategy. The courses are designed to help students develop skills in building businesses, investing in businesses, raising capital, and evaluating business opportunities. Students in this specialization will focus on analysis, decision-making and business planning of a real new venture product or service.  Graduates of this specialization can expect to have a solid business plan that is ready to be presented to investors, banks, or private entities.

The General Business specialization allows students to select courses from a broad range of electives to fit their personal and professional goals. The specialization includes courses such as Corporate Finance, Supervisory Practices, International Economics, Organization and Management. These courses will hone student skills for the 21st century job market including the domestic market to the international market. The potential jobs in this field are corporate chief financial officer (CFO), human services management, consultant, and entrepreneur.

This program provides valuable knowledge and skills training for those specifically interested in the business side of health care. The focus is to develop essential managerial knowledge and skills in financial management, legal and ethical issues of health care, and to examine and develop health care policies. At the end of the Health Services specialization program, 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 in the health  services industry are in demand in hospitals, health maintenance organizations, health insurance companies, government and public health agencies, and social service agencies.

This graduate-level Human Resources Specialization focuses on the interrelationships between the organization’s most important resources – its employees, its leadership, and the business organization in general.  This specialization will provide the Human Resources Manager the tools necessary to properly create, develop, mediate, and maintain these interrelationships that are so important to the overall success of the organization. Students will examine many different dynamics of Human Resource Management, including labor relations, compensation and rewards, leadership, and managing human resources on a global level. Human Resources Managers who complete this specialization will be highly prepared to work as a Generalist or in specialty areas such as employee development, labor relations, compensation and rewards, recruitment and hiring, global human resources management, or risk management.

Northcentral University’s Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Strategic Marketing transcends traditional marketing by focusing upon emerging trends in the 21st century in marketing management and research. As skilled marketers drive a business’ success, students will focus on thought leadership-driven strategic marketing, encompassing contemporary and emergent marketing management methods, global product management, precision pricing, advanced promotional methods, and proven distribution techniques. At the conclusion, students will be well prepared for the marketing workforce of tomorrow.

The MEd in E-Learning at Northcentral University is designed to help you explore how educational activities can be designed to incorporate technology with the goal of engaging the traditional and virtual student, enhancing teaching and learning experiences, and addressing the changing needs in the e-learning instructional environment.

You will experience a unique blend of research, exploration, and application using a variety of e-learning approaches and practices. As an E-Learning graduate, you will have the skills and knowledge to engage in e-learning planning, organization, implementation, sustainability, and continuous improvement of the learning environment.

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.

K-12 schools align what they teach to standards and guidelines and provide data to support student achievement and assure funding. The MEd in Instructional Leadership at Northcentral University is designed to help you analyze the instructional capacity of schools, improve student achievement, and develop teacher leadership skills to provide assessment and improvement strategies in various K-12 educational settings.  

You will use reflective decision making to assist with the development and implementation of practical solutions to contemporary education issues. As an Instructional Leadership graduate, you will be prepared to help K-12 institution evaluate, assess, and report out on the success of the school.

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.

Northcentral University’s Master of Education with a specialization in Social Emotional Learning will help you develop the skills and the personal and professional growth required for effective practice in the field of social emotional learning. The 10-course program prepares you to become an SEL leader after three to five years of direct experience. In this specialization, you will learn to demonstrate expertise in social, emotional, and academic education of students as a holistic approach, conduct a needs assessment, plan and implement curriculum, and assess student learning, serve as a resource to the school, students and their families, and the community, and more. In general, this program focuses on applying principles of learning and behavior to enhance the development, abilities, and choices of children and adults; preparing students to provide social, emotional, and academic education services at home and at school, clinics, and hospital settings to students, families, and schools; and training students to address the behavioral needs of individuals, especially those with developmental disabilities. There are five core competencies covered in this specialization: self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision making, relationship skills, and social awareness. These competencies are applied across three settings: classrooms (curriculum and instruction), schools (school-wide practices and policies), and homes and communities (family and community partnership).

Athletic administration and coaching are both growing professional disciplines. The Master of Education in Sport and Athletic  Management is designed to enhance your leadership skills, strengthen your teaching and administrative abilities and help you apply ethics and values in the direction of an athletic program.

Throughout this program, you will explore practical and successful administrative strategies, and examine all facets of administering an athletic program, such as leadership, legal aspects, financial analysis, marketing, Sport and Athletic  governance, events and facilities management, and ethics. Courses will have a contemporary focus and address current problems and opportunities related to the context area. The curriculum is taught by experienced professionals who have had many years of successful athletic administration experience at the high school level, and emphasizes application through the incorporation and the Applied Experiential Learning model, and a One-to-One approach to faculty-student interaction and teaching.

NCU’s Master of Health Administration (MHA) degree program provides leadership and management skills for those seeking entry or mid-level leadership positions in a variety of healthcare settings. It is aligned with the standards of the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) and will utilize the National Center for Health Care Leadership (NCHL) competency model. It is most ideally suited for those who want to focus their management career within the healthcare industry. Students will explore crucial topics such as data-driven decision making, health policy development and implementation, leadership skills and quality management within healthcare organizations. They’ll also learn about fiscal decision making, financial management and the role of technology. Additionally, this innovative program uses Interprofessional education (IPE) as a foundation for each course. IPE competencies are designed to facilitate teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration.

NCU’s Master of Health Administration program has received candidate status from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME), the national organization that grants accreditation to graduate degree healthcare management programs, P.O. Box 911, Spring House, PA 19477, 301-298-1820, www.cahme.org. Candidate status is an indication that a program in healthcare management has voluntarily committed to participate in a plan of self-improvement and is actively progressing toward the status of accreditation.  Candidate status is not accredited status and does not guarantee eventual accredited status.

Northcentral University’s MHRM with a specialization in General Human Resources Management will help you develop the skills and the personal and professional growth required for practice in the field of HR. This graduate-level specialization focuses on the interrelationships between human resource capital, leadership, and the business organization. You will explore all aspects of human resource management, and address the increasing human resource issues in the global economy. The 10-course program prepares you to become an effective HR manager. In this specialization, you will learn to analyze potential legal implications of common workplace situations; understand and evaluate current trends and issues in employment laws, regulations, and HR policies; and apply this knowledge in a way that effectively manages risk in the employment relationship. In this specialization, you will also explore the foundations for global talent development and management. Roles and practices of HR in the context of global corporations and organizations will be discussed in consideration of cultural issues.

Northcentral University’s Master of Human Resource Management with a specialization in Management of Virtual Organizations focuses on the acquisition of knowledge and skills, and modification of existing skills, to effectively support and manage remote teams and organizations. As remote work has become immensely more common, so has the demand for skills in managing remote teams. In this specialization, students will focus on a wide range of topics relevant to a manager overseeing virtual organizations. From theory to tactics, experienced professionals and entry-level candidates will build expertise in such diverse areas as virtual leadership, building trust in virtual teams, and legal and other implications that may arise in virtual organizations.

This specialization focuses on acquiring the administrative knowledge and skills in such diverse areas as budgeting, government relations, personnel policies, politics, and urban planning. Practicing public administrators, as well as those seeking entry into public administration and related fields, will benefit from the foundational aspects of enabling legislation and business practices. Students focus on a wide range of skills needed by the public administrator overseeing local, state, and federal government agencies and units. This specialization examines budget preparation, government relations, personnel policies, politics, and urban planning. 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 with incremental deliverables implemented along a timeline. Positions that the student could hold are: Business Analyst; Policy Analyst Budget Analyst; Budget Director; Evaluation Consultant; Program Evaluation Director; Economic Research Analyst; and Economic Development Director.

Financial management is important for the efficient operation of any organization, but it can be a particularly complex task within government agencies, public organizations and within the nonprofit sector.  Students interested in preparing for a career in this field can gain the right skills and experience through our Financial Management specialization.

This specialization examines the relevant financial analysis of financial and non-financial organizations. Students will assess financial statements, explore foreign exchange issues and learn about risk and investment management. By the end of the program, students will demonstrate their knowledge with a final research project that includes identifying a workplace problem and an area for intervention along with creating a recommended plan of action.

NCU’s Master of Public Administration with a specialization in Global Business Management covers the essential elements required to understand and manage global organizations. Individuals interested in global management positions and/or teaching in post-secondary institutions of higher education would benefit from this program. The specialization focuses on topics such as global leadership issues and characteristics, trends and strategies in global business strategic management, and the challenges of positioning global brands and pricing approaches. Courses are focused on understanding management within a global organization and challenges global business leaders face, as well as strategies to manage them and position the business in the global market. Some specific areas include, but are not limited to, emerging economies, product differences across culture/modification of product for foreign markets, change barriers in global organizations and implementing changes, and pricing strategies and marketing across multi-national markets. In this program, students will also learn to manage programs in public organizations, assess the effectiveness of public service programs and policies within government agencies, interpret administrative laws and regulations for program implementation in public organizations, and apply public administration knowledge in addressing challenges in public organizations.

Public administrators working within the field of homeland security must have a strong understanding of security, public policy and procedure. Those looking to forge a career related in this rewarding but challenging industry can acquire the insight and knowledge they need with our Homeland Security specialization.

This specialization is designed to prepare professionals working within law enforcement, public safety and similar areas to take executive leadership positions related to homeland security. Students will cover a spectrum of critical topics including everything from management and budgetary rules to crisis management and terrorism. Additionally, students will complete a final project that demonstrates the competencies learned throughout their degree program.

Nonprofits are unique organizations that have their own set of regulations and special challenges. Those interested in launching a career in this rewarding and dynamic field can gain the knowledge and skills they need with our Nonprofit Management specialization.

This specialization looks at the fundamental principles of nonprofit management including revenue generation, legal issues and the recruitment and management of volunteers. Other areas of focus include the roles and responsibilities of the management team, maximizing fundraising opportunities and maintaining healthy budgets. Additional topics include marketing and promotion, diversity and ethics.

Northcentral University’s Master of Science in Educational Psychology program will provide students the information, skills and experience they need to make an impact in the classroom. Students will learn how to enhance education and training outcomes across diverse learning environments through the application of educational psychology principles and research. As a student, you’ll explore the foundations of educational psychology along with critical subjects such as child and adolescent development, the psychology of learning, gifted education and diversity-related topics.  You’ll also cover key topics in research, such as research design and how to utilize statistics. Additionally, you’ll learn about professional ethics and the law as it relates to the field. This program is ideally suited for those that currently work in education or those that seek a future in education or workforce training development.

Northcentral University’s Master of Science in Forensic Psychology with a specialization in General Forensic Psychology helps prepare you to apply psychological principles in forensic settings, and equips you to work within the justice system with law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and departments of victim services. The program is not designed to lead toward licensure or certification, but will provide students with a broad overview of the field, and knowledge and understanding of human behavior as it is presented by individuals who are involved in the legal system, preparing you for a career in a diverse range of forensic psychology-oriented professions. Throughout the program you will learn to analyze theories and principles in psychology, explain usage of diagnostic and assessment tools, and examine diversity issues, evaluate ethical behavior, and synthesize research within forensic settings.

The Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (I/O) at Northcentral University helps prepare you for a career in industry, government and consulting organizations. Throughout the program, you will have an opportunity to synthesize theories and principles applicable to the field of I/O psychology such as personnel psychology, organizational behavior, and research design and statistics analysis. Our unique one-to-one learning model provides you with individualized mentoring by our experienced doctoral professors. At the end of the program, an optional internship provides an opportunity to apply classroom studies to real-world situations. The curriculum for our Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology was developed in accordance with and meets the Guidelines for Education and Training in I/O Psychology as outlined by the American Psychological Association’s Division 14 Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP).

Northcentral University’s Master of Science in Information Technology Network Risk Management and Control specialization focuses on developing the skills and knowledge you need to ensure network integrity, functionality, and security by using assessment tools and procedures to evaluate network health and effectiveness of control structures. Specialization courses will cover topics such as network risk management, network modeling and design, and contingency planning and disaster recovery. The specialization aligns with the knowledge areas required for a Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification.

Northcentral University’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Management and Organizational Leadership program will help students prepare for management roles within hospitals and other healthcare delivery organizations. This is a practice-based program designed to align with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials and the nurse leader competencies from the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE). Students will explore the principles of health care administration, data-driven decision making, healthcare law, and resource and financial management. The program also covers best practices for recruitment, retention and staffing strategies. Additionally, students will complete an evidenced-based research project designed to offer hands-on experience.

To enroll, students must have, and maintain throughout the program, a current, active and unencumbered license as a registered nurse (RN).

The criminal justice system is a vast, billion-dollar industry with many growing opportunities for those with higher degrees and leadership skills. In this MBA specialization you will focus on developing the advanced competencies and analytical capabilities needed to seek management and leadership positions in correctional institutions, law enforcement and the court system. At the end of your program, you will complete a final written research project, demonstrating your ability to conduct an investigation on a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention,

Managing people can be challenging for many organizations and those who are well-trained to handle that dynamic can find themselves in high demand. In the Human Resources Management specialization you will focus on the interrelationships between human resource capital, leadership and the business organization. You will explore all aspects of human resource management, and address the increasing human resource issues in the global economy. Your final specialization project is designed to assess your competencies gained through the challenges of the previous specialization courses.

The Master of Science in Sport Psychology (MSPSYSP) degree program helps you develop the skills and personal and professional growth needed for sport psychology by critically analyzing a broad range of theories and practical knowledge. With an integrated learning experience, you will have the opportunity to engage in fieldwork and supervision. In this program, you will complete a total of 36 credit hours over 12 courses in as few as 21 months. This degree may appeal to individuals who would like to work with athletes and other high-performance people on the psychological aspects of their performance. This program may also appeal to those who are already working in a mental health/counseling environment and are looking to broaden their clientele and engage in non-clinical work. Other current professionals working in the athletic field, including coaches, physical therapists, strength and conditioning coaches, and athletic administrators may be able to enhance their marketability and advance their careers by having this secondary degree and expertise in sport psychology. Additionally, individuals working in other high-performance fields such as law enforcement, military, and executive coaching may benefit from this type of educational training. Northcentral University’s Master of Science in Sport Psychology includes coursework that has been identified as appropriate by the Certification Council of the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.

Northcentral University’s Master of Science in Technology Management (MSTM) with a specialization in Data Science Management is designed to prepare students for data science leadership positions. You will explore key topics in the areas of technical management and leadership, data science, quantitative research design for technology professionals, analysis and interpretation of data, and data visualization techniques. You will be exposed to activities that highlight services to optimize operations and justify fiscal resources required to meet the strategic and operational technology needs of the enterprise. Finally, you will conduct activities to incorporate strategic, operational, and project planning and management into the implementation of IT solutions. In as few as 15 months, you will complete 30 credit hours with courses that deep dive into critical topics for pursuing leadership within this dynamic industry. Upon completion of this program, you will able to demonstrate applied knowledge of technical management and leadership; manage IT systems and services to optimize operations; justify the fiscal resources require to meet strategic and technological needs of an enterprise; and interpret technical concepts in the optimal style and format; and incorporate strategic.

Northcentral University’s Master of Science in Technology Management with a specialization in Information Technology Management is designed to prepare you for leadership positions. As part of this specialization, you will explore key topics of cybersecurity, risk management, systems analysis, systems architecture, and IT asset management. You will be exposed to activities that highlight services to optimize operations and justify fiscal resources required to meet the strategic and operational technology needs of the enterprise. Finally, you will conduct activities to incorporate strategic, operational and project planning, and management into the implementation of IT solutions. The courses are built around real-world scenarios, for students to develop an understanding and use of technology as a manager within the field. Additionally, NCU courses are designed and taught by our 100% doctoral faculty with real-world experience, who guide and mentor students through courses.

Childhood and the teenage years are often fraught with drama and, for many, heartache. The Child and Adolescent Therapy DMFT specialization is designed to prepare you to work in therapy settings with children and adolescents, and view those interactions from a family therapy and/or family systems perspective. With these goals in mind, you will be required to focus your course projects, internship work and dissertation research on issues related to working with children and adolescents. Through your online coursework and offline practicum within your community, you will be challenged to develop competencies and sensitivities to the particulars of working with children and teens who are facing challenges beyond their capacities.

When helping with the challenges facing today’s families, one never knows what emotional issues a family might experience. The General Family Therapy DMFT specialization allows you to select courses from a broad range of electives to fit your personal interests and professional ambitions. In this specialization you are required to focus your course projects, internship work and dissertation research on issues related to marriage and family therapy, dependent upon your career intentions. Offering increased flexibility, this specialization permits you to select four courses (12 credit hours) from the Marriage and Family Therapy curriculum at the 8000 level. Additionally, courses from NCU’s School of Psychology may be considered as well (with approval on a case-by-case basis) for fulfillment of this requirement.

Northcentral University’s Doctorate of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) with a specialization in Systemic Organizational Leadership develops your critical thinking and research skills while providing you with the knowledge, practical application, and values that will shape you into a competent, ethical, and culturally sensitive marriage and family therapist. The specialization prepares you to assume a leadership role. This is a non-clinical specialization—students will complete their practicum and internship in organizational settings and activities, rather than clinical work. Additionally, you will cultivate competence in working with diverse populations, appraise ethical conduct in professional contexts, and prepare applied projects that are designed to make a measurable difference. Students in this specialization will also focus their course assignments and doctoral project on issues related to systemic leadership.

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.

For those who are currently involved in business, or are aspiring to be become a productive member of an organization, the DBA-General Business Specialization has skill building courses such as advanced corporate finance, supervisory techniques, and business knowledge in the global environment. The training strengthens business leaders’ knowledge in business practices which leads to promotions in their organizations, or transition to other organizations. Because of their knowledge and skills, prospective employees have opportunities of employment in areas such as senior management, chief operations officer, director, and senior manager.

For those who desire a more practical, skill-based specialization, the DBA in Health Services may be for you.  This specialization prepares health service industry managers in the areas of strategic planning in health care and managed systems, comparative health care system analysis, and total quality management in health care. 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 in the DBA program can demonstrate real-world application of knowledge and skills in both public and private health care management settings.

This Human Resources Specialization focuses on the interrelationships between the organization’s most important resources – its employees, its leadership, and the business organization in general.  This specialization will provide the Human Resources Manager the tools necessary to properly create, develop, mediate, and maintain these interrelationships that are so important to the overall success of the organization. Students will focus on HRM Information Systems, compensation and staffing strategies, training and professional development, cultural diversity, innovation, labor relations, and legal issues in HRM. This specialization will provide the student all of the tools necessary to specialize in any one of these areas of Human Resources Management. Students will complete a research project to demonstrate their ability to appropriately and successfully conduct an investigation into a workplace problem, identify areas for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action, which will provide the students with an excellent, high quality product proving their level of qualification for high-level Human Resource Management jobs within any industry.

The specialization focuses on management, leadership and team building in the project/program environment. Students in this specialization will examine strategies relating to managing multiple projects as well as the concepts of earned value project management. Students will also 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.  This specialization explores principles, concepts, tools, and techniques to improve project performance and organizational effectiveness. Students examine all aspects of managing and overseeing business projects, including cost estimates, budget management, cost control, risk assessment, bid negotiation and contracts, and performance reporting critical to the success of any enterprise.  Graduates in this discipline can expect to lead project teams, multiple projects or a project management office. Courses in this specialization count as Professional Development Units for PMI® certification.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ) program can help criminal justice professionals gain the advanced knowledge they need to become leaders in their field. This program was designed to help students develop a pragmatic approach to solving the problems facing the industry today. Upon graduation students will have a deep understanding of criminal justice theory, criminology theory, civil and criminal liability and gain the leadership skills they need to distinguish themselves in the workplace. This program offers specializations in Homeland Security, Law Enforcement and White Collar Crime.  It is ideally suited for those that hold a master’s degree and are currently working in the criminal justice field. Students will enhance their understanding of critical topics in criminal justice and gain the additional skills they need to contribute in leadership roles. This includes the ability to research, budget, organize and manage operations related to public safety.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Criminal Justice with a specialization in Organizational Leadership serves to enhance the understanding and practice of organizational leadership using an interdisciplinary approach between business and education theory and research. Students will explore theoretical research as it relates to strategic planning in all phases of organizational leadership, including building organizational capacity and sustainability. This specialization has broad appeal among practicing professionals with a background in business administration, human resources, nonprofit administration, and related fields, whose professional goal may be organizational consulting or a general leadership position in corporate, government, not-for-profit, educational, or community organizations.

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.

In the Doctor of Education with a specialization in Early Childhood Education program, you will build on your existing knowledge and skills in early childhood education as you focus on leadership in practice. This focus will include curriculum, assessment, and program administration that aligns with research on the growth and development of young children. You will also investigate the roles of families, caregivers, schools, and communities as partners in early childhood education. This specialization supports your development as a leader focused on problems of practice in the field of early childhood education. You will complete a total of 16 courses for 48 credit hours in as few as 33 months. Upon completion of the program, you will be prepared to recommend policies advancing equity and social justice in educational organizations; select ethical and regulatory compliant actions supporting the mission and vision of organizations; develop leadership skills through the integration of theoretical constructs with professional practice; create strategic and tactical plans to improve organizations; and construct theory-informed decisions for addressing complex problems of practice.

The Doctor of Education degree in General Education at Northcentral University gives you the opportunity to work One-to-One with faculty in each of your courses who will provide you with valuable feedback and support as you further your understanding of education theory and best practices and how to apply these principles in your profession. You will develop a broad knowledgebase that fits your interests and goals, while also advancing your research and critical thinking skills. You must complete a minimum of 18 credits of specialization courses of your choice, including up to two courses from other fields.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Education (EdD) in Instructional Design program will help students gain the skills they need to develop and manage complex design projects. This includes hands-on experience working with subject matter experts and learning how to utilize popular authoring tools to create powerful learning experiences. Upon graduation students will understand how to design and develop learning environments for government, business, military, and K-12 and higher education applications or leading ID teams. This program was created by experienced professionals to help guide students on how to apply their knowledge to solve authentic problems. Students will cover a range of advanced topics, including research, contemporary instructional design, and the design and development of simulations and gaming solutions.

The Doctor of Education degree in International Education at Northcentral University will introduce you to theories of comparative education, cross-national comparative analysis, global educational transfer and borrowing, international development, and the relation between culture and education, and the tools needed to be an effective educator of global and comparative education.

You will learn how to develop strategies in conducting comparative research and cross-national policy analysis, as you comprehend, through reading and course assignments, the global dimensions of several crucial contemporary issues, including the hopes of global cooperation, and the complexity of educational accountability, authority, and professionalism. You will also be introduced to international organizations and consider current topics and debates in the fields of international education. Special emphasis is given to practices, strategies, and techniques that can be adapted to intercultural/multicultural contexts.

NCU’s Doctor of Education with a Specialization in Leadership in Higher Education digs deep into a variety of topics specific to higher education such as how higher education is organized, how it is financed, associated legal issues and the history of higher education. You will examine leadership across different functions, such as student services, strategic planning, and academic program and curriculum development, as well as different types of institutions, such as public, private, for profit, and nonprofit. You will also explore the leader’s role in other institutional operations related to legal and financial considerations. The program also provides knowledge in educational leadership research, theory, and practices applicable to higher education. Action or applied research is conducted to identify future directions of national and global higher education leadership. In our unique one-on-one mentoring approach, your doctoral professors will have you conduct action or applied research to identify future directions of national and global higher education leadership. Job titles this specialization can prepare you for include academic affairs vice president, academic dean, admissions director, college president, dean, financial aid director, institutional research director, provost, registrar, or students dean.

If you have a passion for combining data application and theoretical principles to guide the processes in primary, intermediate and secondary educational systems, NCU’s Doctor of Education (EdD) with a specialization in Learning Analytics K-12 can help prepare you to improve the K-12 academic experience and its results. This online doctoral program immerses students into the growing field of K-12 learner analytics. The program emphasizes identifying early and prominent foundations of student analytics and examining key theories, views from leading experts and useful best practices and applications in K-12 learning environments.

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.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Education with a Specialization in Social Emotional Learning will help you develop the skills and the personal and professional growth required for effective practice in the field of social emotional learning. The 16-course program prepares you to become an SEL leader after three to five years of direct experience. In this specialization, you will learn to demonstrate expertise in social emotional education content, conduct a needs assessment, plan and implement curriculum, assess student learning, coordinate school health and advocacy for social, emotional, and academic education as a holistic approach, serve as a resource to the school, students and their families, the community, and more. The Social Emotional Learning (SEL) specialization is focused on mid-career or advanced classroom teachers, school counselors or psychologists, and school/district administrators who desire a more intensive examination of the five core competencies identified by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL): self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness. From a practitioner’s perspective, you will examine how these competencies are applied across classrooms, schools, homes, and communities. While individuals outside of the K-12 school context would benefit from the specialization, the courses do use a K-12 lens.

The Doctor of Education degree with a specialization in Sport and Athletic  Management at Northcentral University will provide you with leadership expertise at the collegiate level in this growing field. You will have the opportunity to increase your knowledge through practical application and doctoral research on the influences that impact Sport and Athletic  and athletics.

The Sport and Athletic  Management EdD curriculum includes a combination of science-based academics, research methods and real life experiences with emphasis on the ever-changing financial, legal, political and marketing concerns within the collegiate athletic department. You will also further your knowledge in directing an athletic department at the collegiate level as you work One-to-One with experienced faculty in courses in compliance, Title IX, legal aspects, and advisement programs for the student athlete.

The Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) degree program at Northcentral University provides leadership and management skills for those seeking mid to senior executive-level positions in a variety of healthcare settings. This applied program prepares you to learn the highly specialized skills needed to drive change and solve problems within healthcare organizations. Students will learn how to create administrative strategies, make evidence-based decisions, understand the impact and importance of health policy, and navigate the legal and ethical issues that are unique to healthcare. Students will learn in an interprofessional environment designed to facilitate teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration. While the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) doesn’t offer accreditation for doctoral programs, this program was developed to align with their high standards. Additionally, it utilizes the National Center for Health Care Leadership (NCHL) competency model.

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.

Advance your career in the dynamic and volatile field of health services. The Health Services 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 services industry management knowledge.  Graduates often seek high-level management positions in both public and private health services settings.

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 Psychology 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.

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.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration with specialization in Strategic Marketing will help you develop the skills and the personal and professional growth required for effective practice in the field of business. This specialization delivers a next-generation approach to strategic marketing, transcending traditional marketing management, and research methodology. This specialization delivers benchmark training in the three pillars of global change leadership, marketing science, and innovation in marketing economics. Following the execution of strategic coursework, students will focus on real-world global product strategy, advancing digital marketing across the entire scope of the product life cycle. The specialization provides strategies for a sound, systematic, ethical, and legal approach to contemporary and emergent marketing practices. At the conclusion, students will be well prepared to lead the marketing workforce of tomorrow.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY) focuses on technology strategies that are applicable to leading positions in both the private and public sectors. This program takes an applied approach to cybersecurity theory and research. In this program you will get hands-on experience, explore advanced topics, learn the very latest concepts, and prepare for anticipated risks in the field of cybersecurity. Throughout this program you will learn to devise strategic thought leadership for challenges in cybersecurity architecture and operations, assess internal and external threats and vulnerabilities to reduce organizational cyber risk, and facilitate the protection of critical information resources from current and future loss. You will evaluate tools, data, and processes to enhance protection and foster resilience while advancing the theory and practical applications of cybersecurity. Finally, you will explore topics like governance, compliance, leading frameworks, models, and standards to reduce threats and vulnerabilities. Additionally, you will create a portfolio of valuable capabilities, addressing internal and external issues through the intelligent manipulation of data while completing your doctoral studies.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY) focuses on the methods and technology for preventing threats and protecting critical data and systems for organizations. The program combines four knowledge areas to complete research or synthesize cybersecurity solutions for enterprises subject to national exposures and global threats. The combined resolution of risk, compliance, audit, and privacy will enable graduates to create enhanced solutions while limiting the need for resources. Throughout this program students will learn to increase their advanced consulting and large enterprise expertise, as well as assess internal and external threats and vulnerabilities to reduce organizational cyber risk. You will also evaluate the tools, data, and processes to enhance protection and foster resilience, and build on earlier technology and management degrees to work with executives to remove obstacles and preempt future losses. The Global Strategy and Operations specialization adds specific global solutions through integrated strategy and leadership capabilities to establish global operations. The focus is on solving multi-time zone and multi-continent challenges, as well as a range of laws, languages, and cultures. Specific considerations include diverse technologies, challenging support structures, and cyber target domains. The complication of widely distributed infrastructure, diverse political influences, and complex supply chains form part of the predictive strategy and the creation of operational excellence.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY) with a specialization in Secure Cloud Computing builds on best practices, frameworks, and models to synthesize unique solutions that optimize organization outcomes. The specialization investigates current and anticipated needs and solutions in this fast-growing tech industry. This particular program is designed to prepare researchers, consultants, and technology strategists for leadership roles and executive positions in private and public sectors, where advanced or complex cloud computing is important. Other skills you will develop include devising strategic thought leadership for challenges in cybersecurity architecture and operations, assessing internal and external threats and vulnerabilities to reduce organizational cyber risk, and facilitating the protection of critical information resources from current and future loss. Throughout the program you will learn essential cybersecurity skills, including complex secure data communications, identity management, and access controls.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Education with a specialization in Curriculum and Teaching is designed to advance your knowledge and skills while giving you the opportunity to contribute to your field. The nature and purpose of the Curriculum and Teaching specialization within the PhD program is to provide teacher-learners the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies that will enhance their contributions to the theoretical knowledge of the field. You will have the opportunity to explore, examine, and evaluate contemporary teaching and instructional practices, including the evaluation of broader curriculum programs.

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.

The continual evolution of many facets of education may have you wondering which area to focus on—analytics or curriculum development, international education or e-learning—or whether you should choose just one area. If you envision a career in education that doesn’t fit neatly into one discipline, Northcentral University—a regionally accredited online university—has a program that can tailor your education to your needs. The PhD in Education with a general education specialization allows you to tailor a degree program to fit your career goals.

The PhD in Education in Instructional Leadership at Northcentral University will develop your knowledgebase in instructional leadership research, theory and practice with an emphasis on change through policy development and educational reform. In your Instructional Leadership PhD courses, you will conduct research and analysis as you examine supervision of instruction, curriculum, diversity, and the instructional capacity of K-12 schools.

As a PhD in Instructional Leadership graduate, you may choose to teach; work with organizations interested in education on a global scale; or pursue research in this field.

Northcentral University’s PhD-Ed (Doctor of Philosophy in Education) with a specialization in International Education and Globalization focuses on educational phenomena, practices, institutions, and organizations within different societies and cultures. This specialization includes an exploration of international organizations, initiatives, ethics, and challenges faced by international and global practitioners. Throughout this program, students will learn to develop deep knowledge of educational systems, theories, and research in an area of expertise, as well as to interpret theories, research, and ideas for different audiences through multiple methods of communication. Other skills developed include integrating ethical principles and professional standards for a specific discipline within the field, conducting autonomous or collaborative research using high-level analytical skills, and contributing to the body of knowledge specific to a discipline within the field. Further, this specialization prepares individuals to apply the concepts of organizational training, development, and leadership to the design, management, and evaluation of programs, institutions, and organizations. For the PhD student, this includes an exploration of policy and related theories of leadership.

NCU’s online Doctor of Education (EdD) with a specialization in Learning Analytics in Higher Education can set you apart in this ever-expanding field as a skilled educational data analyst. This program will immerse you in the field, exposing you to the history of data analytics, instruction on the proper identification, utility, and application of relevant data in the educational world. In addition, you will receive an introduction to the components of datum, data mining, types of data analytics and other associated issues. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared to lead and oversee the collection and management of sensitive data.

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.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Education with Specialization in Social Emotional Learning will help you develop the skills and the personal and professional growth required for effective practice in the field of social emotional learning. The 16-course program prepares you to become an SEL leader after three to five years of direct experience. In this specialization, you will learn to demonstrate expertise in social emotional education content, conduct a needs assessment, plan and implement curriculum, assess student learning, coordinate school health and advocacy for social, emotional and academic education as a holistic approach, serve as a resource to the school, students and their families, the community, and more. The Social Emotional Learning (SEL) specialization is focused on mid-career or advanced classroom teachers, school counselors or psychologists, and school/district administrators who desire a more intensive examination of the five core competencies identified by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL): self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness. From a practitioner’s perspective, you will examine how these competencies are applied across classrooms, schools, homes, and communities. While individuals outside of the K-12 school context would benefit from the specialization, the courses do use a K-12 lens.

If you are looking to increase your knowledge and leadership expertise in the fields of Sport and Athletic  management and athletic administration, the PhD in Education with a specialization in Sport and Athletic  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 Sport and Athletic  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.

Learning organizations face a range of challenges, from budget issues and ethical concerns to learning how to adapt to the increasingly diverse student population. Addressing these issues requires strong leaders that have in-depth knowledge, specialized experience and vision. Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Leadership degree program can help students develop and refine the skills needed to lead an organization to success. This comprehensive program is a theoretical research degree designed to help students learn how to ethically address the complex problems faced in education today. This is an ideal program for those that wish to improve educational practices across private and public sectors, such as PK-12, higher education, military and corporate learning environments. Students will explore theories, models and practices related to various leadership styles to gain a broader understanding of how to be an effective leader. Additionally, the program covers topics such as evidence-based decision making, educational policy and the relationship between policy and overall school performance.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Instructional Design program will help students gain the advanced skills they need to thrive in the challenging and rewarding field of instructional design. Students will gain practical, hands-on experience working with subject matter experts, managing complex projects and carrying out research projects. Upon graduation students will have the skills they need to help shape learning environments and contribute to the overall body of knowledge in the field of instructional design. This program is centered on helping students develop advanced skills and knowledge related to the learning experience and instructional design. Students will learn how to evaluate design processes, explore the design and development of simulations, games and mobile learning along with the various methods of information delivery.

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.

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.

As the world’s population continues to age, the demand will continue for individuals trained in gerontology. The Gerontology specialization is designed to train you in working with older adults and their families. Coursework in this program prepares you for career opportunities in health facilities, mental health clinics, government agencies and community organizations.

Northcentral University offers a robust Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology program in Industrial Organizational Psychology (IOP) that is aligned with the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology’s (SIOP) guidelines for education and training. You’ll work with expert faculty who will provide personalized 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. Additionally you’ll learn about the application and interpretation of tests and measurements as applied to employee selection, as well as how to conduct performance appraisals and training evaluations.

The IOP specialization in the PhD in Psychology program at Northcentral University 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, personnel specialist, and talent acquisition.

Exposure to trauma and disaster can lead to emotional and behavioral issues for victims, survivors, relief workers and bystanders. The Trauma and Disaster Relief specialization prepares you to understand the needs of individuals who have witnessed natural disasters, accidents, abuse, physical injury, bullying, etc., and who are grappling with how to cope or to integrate memories or feelings related to that experience.

Northcentral University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity (PhD-CY) focuses on technology strategies that are applicable to leading positions in both the private and public sectors. This program takes an applied approach to cybersecurity theory and research. In this program you will get hands-on experience, explore advanced topics, learn the very latest concepts, and prepare for anticipated risks in the field of cybersecurity. Throughout this program you will learn to devise strategic thought leadership for challenges in cybersecurity architecture and operations, assess internal and external threats and vulnerabilities to reduce organizational cyber risk, and facilitate the protection of critical information resources from current and future loss. You will evaluate tools, data, and processes to enhance protection and foster resilience while advancing the theory and practical applications of cybersecurity. Finally, you will explore topics like governance, compliance, leading frameworks, models, and standards to reduce threats and vulnerabilities. Additionally, you will create a portfolio of valuable capabilities, addressing internal and external issues through the intelligent manipulation of data while completing your doctoral studies.

The importance of engineering and invention to the field of technology cannot be over-emphasized. That understanding informs the motivation behind creating NCU’s Engineering Management specialization, designed for leaders in all types of engineering and technology management fields. In this specialization you will learn a variety of tools vital to assessing the potential of innovative ideas, protecting an organization’s intellectual property and bringing new ideas to fruition. Upon graduation, you will be able to use the knowledge you have gained to lead engineering and information systems initiatives in any organization, whether for government, business or nonprofit.

Technology without qualified leadership to oversee its optimal use is just expensive hardware. That’s why NCU’s IT Project Management specialization was created: to prepare scholars like you with the skills needed to conceive and manage the conception, planning, implementation and deployment of a variety of information technology-related projects and systems. In this important focus, you will pair your technology coursework with in-depth courses in leadership, risk management and oversight of multiple projects. On graduation, you will be prepared to take on management roles in project management and information technology.

The Education Specialist with a specialization in Curriculum and Teaching is designed to provide teacher learners the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies that will enhance their instructional practice and leadership. You will have the opportunity to explore, examine, and evaluate contemporary teaching and instructional practices, including the evaluation of broader curriculum programs. Upon completion of the program, you’ll be prepared to be a strong leader for improvements within educational organizations. You will integrate theoretical constructs into your considerations of complex professional problems, developing strategies, tactics, and policies not only to improve practice and ensure regulatory compliance, but also with attention to issues of equity, inclusion, social justice, and ethical conduct. You will complete 11 courses for 33 credit hours in as few as 21 months.

The pedagogy of language acquisition is of great importance in not only today’s classrooms, but also the businesses and organizations with which we all interact. The Education Specialist with a specialization in English Language Learning (ELL) program will help you to build on your existing knowledge and skills to improve the teaching, assessment, and curriculum development for ELL programs. The final course offers you the opportunity to consider significant issues in ELL education. Please note that if you are seeking ELL/ESL certification, you should verify with appropriate state officials that this specialization meets applicable certification requirements. You will complete a total of 11 courses for 33 credit hours in as few as 17 months. Upon completion of the program, you will be prepared to develop skills to support educational practices across diverse instructional and organizational settings; communicate with diverse audiences about educational theories, research, and practices; analyze professional skills, dispositions, and technology options for learning and educating diverse groups; apply evidence-based solutions for addressing educational, organizational, and societal issues; and analyze current research, theories, and instructional practices in educational and organizational environments.

Northcentral University’s Education Specialist (EdS) with a specialization in Global Training and Development program will help you develop the skills and the personal and professional growth required for effective leadership in the field of global training and development. In this 11-course program specialization, you will build on your existing knowledge and skills in global training and development as you focus on leadership in practice. This focus will extend across global and multinational organizations and will include topics such as paradigms of human performance, alignment of training activities with strategic business goals, global performance culture, cross-cultural training, and consultancy in the global training marketplace. Throughout the program you will analyze current research, theories, and instructional practices in educational and organizational environments, apply evidence-based solutions for addressing educational, organizational, and societal issues, and communicate with diverse audiences about educational theories, research, and practices.

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.

NCU’s Education Specialist with a Specialization in Leadership in Higher Education digs deep into a variety of topics specific to higher education and will familiarize you with how higher education is organized and financed, about 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. This specialization prepares you to lead in a variety of higher education institutions. You will examine leadership across different functions, such as student services, strategic planning, and academic program and curriculum development, as well as different types of institutions, such as public, private, for profit, and nonprofit. You will also explore the leader’s role in other institutional operations related to legal and financial considerations. Job titles this specialization can prepare you for include academic affairs vice president, academic dean, admissions director, college president, dean, financial aid director, institutional research director, provost, registrar, or students dean.

Northcentral University’s EdD (Doctor of Education) with a specialization in School Safety, Security, and Emergency Management is designed to allow learners to focus on the three areas unique to the specialization title. Students who feel safe and secure at school are better able to learn by engaging with the curriculum, their teachers, and their peers. Throughout this program, students will learn to develop skills to support educational practices across diverse instructional and organizational settings, and to communicate with diverse audiences about educational theories, research, and practices . Other skills include analyzing professional skills, dispositions, and technology options for learning and educating diverse groups, applying evidence-based solutions for addressing educational, organizational, and societal issues, and analyzing current research,  theories, and instructional practices in educational and organizational environments. Further, a theoretical underpinning of these issues and the needed response will be examined. Learners will demonstrate their proficiency through a capstone project in the final specialization course.

Northcentral University’s education specialist with specialization in special education prepares you to face the challenging legal issues confronting special education programs. You will explore these broader roles related to implementing special education programs, data, monitoring student progress across programs, and the intersection of leadership, law, and finance. You will demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a capstone course at the end of your special education coursework. This specialization focuses on special education from a broader perspective than a single classroom, including your potential as a leader-practitioner and administrator. Throughout this program, you will develop skills to support educational practices across diverse instructional and organizational settings, communicate with diverse audiences about educational theories, research, and practices, and apply evidence-based solutions for addressing educational, organizational, and societal issues. This program will prepare you for a career as a school district administrator of special education programs. This specialization can also prepare you to pursue doctoral studies in special education at NCU.

Northcentral University’s Education Specialist with specialization in Trauma-Informed Educational Practices builds on the fundamental knowledge and skills related to teaching and learning. The focus of the EdS will extend across various educational settings and populations and further enhance your knowledge of the fundamentals of a trauma-informed approach to education, how trauma manifests in different populations and communities, specific trauma-informed strategies for the classroom, and strengthening resilience among both students and educators. Throughout this program you will develop skills to support educational practices across diverse instructional and organizational settings and communicate with diverse audiences about educational theories, research, and practices. You will also analyze professional skills, dispositions, and technology options for learning and educating diverse groups, as well as apply evidence-based solutions for addressing educational, organizational, and societal issues.