Yvonne Chen, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Global Initiatives
SU Global (Office of Global Initiatives); 540-773-1206; GDOL@su.edu and SUGlobal@su.edu

The Global Doctor of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership (GDOL) is a 60-credit executive doctoral program
designed for senior professionals with a minimum of five years of leadership experience. The program equips practitioners to lead
transformative change, manage organizational complexity, and drive strategic innovation in global contexts.

Structured for working executives, the GDOL is delivered in a hybrid format that combines asynchronous and synchronous online
coursework with periodic face-to-face seminars, dissertation workshops, and one-on-one faculty consultations. Instruction is offered in
Mandarin or bilingual Mandarin-English, depending on the course. Applicants must demonstrate professional proficiency or native
fluency in Mandarin.

The curriculum emphasizes advanced leadership theory, global organizational strategy, and applied research methodology. Students
conduct pilot studies and field-based inquiries that address real organizational problems and contribute new insights to professional
practice. The culminating practice-based dissertation is designed to generate actionable solutions with measurable
impact—distinguishing the GDOL from traditional, theory-centered Ph.D. programs.

The GDOL also places strong emphasis on peer learning and global networking. Through a cohort model, students collaborate across
industries and regions, building lasting professional relationships and engaging in high-level dialogue with fellow executives.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the GDOL program must provide the following documents along with the application form.
 Master’s Degree
A completed master’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution.
 Academic Credentials
Official transcripts and documentation of post-secondary education.
Note: For degrees earned from Chinese institutions, official degree verification issued by the appropriate educational authorities is
required. (Please contact the SU Global office for details.)
 Reflective Study Statement
A written statement addressing the following:
o A summary of your academic and professional accomplishments.
o Your motivation for pursuing the GDOL program and what you hope to gain.
o A general outline of your areas of interest and the topics you intend to explore through your doctoral study.
 Résumé
A current résumé detailing relevant leadership and professional experience.
 Professional Experience
A minimum of five years of full-time professional work experience demonstrating leadership and organizational impact.
 Interview
A successful admissions interview conducted by the SU Global Admissions Committee.
 Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation from recent supervisors or professional references who can speak to your qualifications and
leadership potential.

 Additional Materials
Any other documents as requested by the admissions office.