Global Executive Track: Engineering leadership and management science Ph.D.

The Wayne State University Global Executive Track: Engineering leadership and management science Ph.D. is a practitioner-oriented doctoral program designed for experienced managers, executives, technical leaders, and entrepreneurs. You will connect advanced academic research with the real-world challenges you encounter in your professional life while developing the skills to investigate complex problems, generate new knowledge, and create meaningful value for your organization and society. The Global Executive Track Ph.D. was originally offered as a Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering, the program has graduated more than 30 doctoral students since its launch in 2008. Beginning in Fall 2026, the degree title changed to Engineering Management and Leadership Science to better reflect the program’s emphasis on leadership, management, innovation, and applied research. While the degree title has changed, the Global Executive Track Ph.D. continues its longstanding mission of connecting academic rigor with the experience and challenges of working professionals. An industry advisory board helps keep the curriculum relevant to evolving industry needs. You'll learn alongside experienced professionals from engineering, business, technology, health care, and other fields, bringing diverse perspectives and real-world challenges into the classroom. You'll also learn from Wayne State faculty with expertise in engineering, business, global leadership, cultural anthropology, and related disciplines. Through interactive coursework, real-world cases, research, and collaboration, you'll develop the knowledge and skills to lead complex organizations, solve challenging problems, and create sustainable value.

Hold a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field and a master's degree in engineering, industrial engineering, operations research, engineering management, business administration, or a related discipline. Have significant professional experience, including leadership experience. Have demonstrated leadership in initiatives with complex, cross-organizational impact. Are committed to creative leadership, continuing intellectual development, and collaborative learning. Want to connect rigorous academic research with real-world organizational challenges. Are prepared to undertake the sustained study and research required to complete a doctoral degree.