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DHS in Leadership and Organizational Management
Doctor of Human Services
Transform your career and make a difference in your organization. An online Doctor of Human Services degree in Leadership and Organizational Management from Capella can help you build skills and knowledge that you can use in the field of human services.
Study advanced strategies for constructive collaboration with organizations, communities, and individuals. Learn how to provide solutions and channel your expertise for positive outcomes in a challenging world.
Note: This program is not designed to meet licensure requirements for counseling or social work professions.
Classes start January 5
Apply today with no application fee.
At a glance
- Online
- FlexPath available
- 9 Core courses
- 3 Specialization courses
- 5 Doctoral project courses
- 16 Max transfer credits
With Capella Tuition Cap, you won't pay more than $45,000* in tuition costs for your degree.
*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.
Explore leadership and organizational management courses
- This program requires a total of 68 quarter credits
- You’ll need to complete nine core courses, three specialization courses, and five doctoral project courses
Show all descriptions
HMSV8004
Advanced Human Services Leadership and Practice
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course develop an understanding of human service leadership and practice. Learners analyze the attributes that scholar-practitioners exhibit for effective service delivery, including data-driven decision-making skills and multidisciplinary collaboration strategies. Learners also apply the principles of ethics, diversity and inclusion within the field of human services.
4 quarter credits
HMSV8220
Scholarly and Professional Writing in Human Services
4 quarter credits
Learners develop their writing skills by examining the differences between scholarly writing and professional writing. Learners hone basic writing skills (grammar, spelling, mechanical errors) and apply APA formatting rules. Learners also examine ways to organize their thoughts and present them in narrative format for both scholarly and professional audiences as well as scholarly and professional documents. Learners develop skills in reviewing research from peer-reviewed journals as well as theoretical writings that may be applicable to their upcoming doctoral projects. Prerequisite(s): HMSV8004 or HMSV8002.
4 quarter credits
HMSV8008
Research Methods and Program Evaluation
4 quarter credits
Learners develop their research skills by demonstrating an understanding of quantitative and qualitative methodologies and when to apply each type. Learners differentiate between theoretical and action research and how to utilize action research to investigate concerns of either human services organizations or communities. Learners also examine how laws, regulations and ethical implications must be considered when conducting research. Prerequisite(s): HMSV8004 or HMSV8002.
4 quarter credits
HMSV8210
Advanced Program Development in the Human Service Sector
4 quarter credits
Learners synthesize their knowledge of evidence-based human services interventions to develop human services programs, including program evaluation plans. Learners apply leadership strategies as well as consider ethical issues and the needs of diverse demographics and cultural perspectives when considering program development. Additionally, learners apply knowledge of multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure the program meets clients¿ and communities¿ needs as well as advocate for program funding. Prerequisite(s): HMSV8008, HMSV8220
4 quarter credits
What you'll learn
The Doctoral Leadership and Organizational Management specialization focuses on increasing organizational effectiveness through strategic planning and evidence-based best practices and behaviors. Throughout the specialization, you’ll gain and apply skills in effective negotiation and mediation, conflict management, and creating effective collaboration across an organization. This specialization is not designed to meet licensure requirements for counseling or social work professions.
On successful completion of this program, you should be prepared to:
- Build effective human services organizations
- Lead ethically to improve organizations and communities
- Apply audience-appropriate writing strategies to clearly communicate with multiple stakeholders
Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and professional paths to explore.
How much does the Doctor of Human Services cost?
The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See FlexPath and GuidedPath cost information below.
A self-paced learning format that helps put you in control. Take courses at your own speed and move on to the next course whenever you’re ready.
- Enroll in one or two core courses at a time and complete as many as you can in 12 weeks
- 2 Capella quarter credits = 1 program point
- Set your own deadlines, no courseroom discussions
- Pay a flat tuition fee per 12-week billing session*
$3,000 per 12-week billing session, $175 resource kit, 34 total program points, 8 max transfer points
Fees
Resource kit fee
$175 per quarter
Includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits and other instructional materials
Resource kit fee
$175
per quarter
Includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits and other instructional materials
Application fee
$0 no application fee
Application fee
$0
no application fee
Total Tuition Cap
Capella Tuition Cap
$45,000 Total Tuition
- Pay no more than $45,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Applies to both GuidedPath and FlexPath learning formats
- Available to all students who start now through Jan. 6, 2025
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, supplies, and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residencies, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
Capella Tuition Cap
What is the Capella Tuition Cap?$45,000
Total Tuition
- Pay no more than $45,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Applies to both GuidedPath and FlexPath learning formats
- Available to all students who start now through Jan. 6, 2025
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, supplies, and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residencies, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details. Capella Tuition Cap is available to students who start now through Jan. 6, 2025.
Get the details
Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
GuidedPath
A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
- Based on the quarter system; 1-2 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter
$730 per credit, 68 coursework credits, 16 max transfer credits
Tuition breakdown
GuidedPath pricing
Program Phases
Fees
Resource kit fee
$175 Per quarter
Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials
Resource kit fee
$175
Per quarter
Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials
Application fee
$0 no application fee
Application fee
$0
no application fee
Total Tuition Cap
Capella Tuition Cap
$45,000 Total Tuition
- Pay no more than $45,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Available to all students who start now through Jan. 6, 2025
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
Capella Tuition Cap
What is the Capella Tuition Cap?$45,000
Total Tuition
- Pay no more than $45,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Available to all students who start now through Jan. 6, 2025
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
Tuition and program length are unique to you
Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:
- The program specialization you choose
- Scholarships and finances
- Prior coursework
- Transfer credits
- Employer and/or military benefits
- Academic performance
- School/work/life balance
- Unexpected life events
About cost scenarios
The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.
To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.
Cost scenarios
Estimated cost of completion |
|
|---|---|
| Coursework: 13 quarters |
$46,720.00 |
| Subtotal
|
$46,720.00 |
| Savings with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$-1,720.00 |
| Est. tuition subtotal with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$45,000.00 |
| Resource kit fee: $175 13 quarters |
$2,275.00 |
| Application fee: $0 no application fee |
$0 |
|
Est. Total with Capella Tuition Cap* 13 quarters |
$47,275.00 |
*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details. Capella Tuition Cap is available to students who start now through Jan. 6, 2025.
Get the details
Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees?
Your education is an investment in your future that's within reach. There are more ways to save than you might think.
Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our accreditations and recognitions.
What are the DHS admission requirements?
Applicants must provide the following information for admission to Capella programs and specializations:
- A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
- Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
FlexPath admission requirements
Applicants for our FlexPath self-paced learning option must also meet the following criteria:
- The recommended minimum GPA is 3.0, although those with lower GPAs may be considered if providing additional documentation for review.
Transition to FlexPath: Applicants whose GPA is below the FlexPath admission threshold may be considered once they successfully complete at least two GuidedPath courses (or eight credits, whichever is greater) with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
International Student Requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
What support does Capella offer online students?
Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.
Articles and resources
Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.
Financing Guide
We can help you understand education financing, review your options and explore ways to save on your degree.
Helping Professions Program Guide
Explore paths and programs that leverage your unique interests to help build a better world.
What’s it like to be a doctoral student?
What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.
What can you do with a DHS in Leadership and Organizational Management degree?
Your education can help you pursue your professional and personal goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to explore with a DHS in Leadership and Organizational Management.
Related job titles to explore*
- Program specialist
- Program supervisor
- National field director
- Clinical director
- Director of youth services
- Community development specialist
- Director of social services
- Director of outreach
- Program manager
- Director of advocacy
Employment settings to explore
- Public administration
- Healthcare and social assistance
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Management of companies and enterprises
*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.