ICLM

ICLM EPDL Programme

Executive Professional Doctorate Degree in Leadership

The Executive Professional Doctorate in Leadership (EPDL) is an earned professional doctorate credential, distinct from both the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and honorary doctorate awards. It is conferred upon accomplished leaders who have demonstrated exceptional competence, strategic influence, and professional distinction within their fields. Representing the highest level of professional and practice-based achievement, the EPDL integrates advanced leadership theory with applied expertise and measurable impact in organizational and societal contexts.

Designed for seasoned executives and professionals, the EPDL emphasizes practical relevance and real-world outcomes rather than traditional academic coursework. Assessment is based on demonstrated professional mastery through insightful case studies, portfolio evaluation, professional publications, and presentations—each reflecting the candidate’s applied scholarship, leadership experience, and strategic contributions to their discipline or industry.

Recipients who successfully meet all assessment requirements are formally entitled to use the title “Dr.” as recognition for their professional distinction. The Executive Professional Doctorate in Leadership is conferred by Appleton Private University, United Kingdom, as professionally administered in partnership with the Institute of Corporate Leadership and Mentorship (ICLM), in alignment with global standards of academic excellence, professional integrity, and leadership advancement.

OBJECTIVES:

  • Recognize and validate leadership expertise through academic benchmarking.
  • Encourage reflective and critical thinking on professional practice.
  • Provide a structured path for synthesizing, articulating, and presenting accumulated knowledge and impact.
  • Foster professional growth and credibility through formal recognition.

SPECIALIZED PROFESSIONAL OPTIONS

The following are specialized professional options that you can choose from: 

  • Doctor of Public Administration & Leadership (DPAL)
  • Doctor of Educational Leadership & Management (DELM)
  • Doctor of Business Leadership & Entrepreneurship (DBLE)
  • Doctor of Strategic Leadership & Communication (DSLC)
  • Doctor of Public Finance & Accounting (DPFA)
  • Doctor of Christian Leadership & Theology (DCLTh) 

CRITERIA FOR SELECTION & MODE OF OPERATION: 

The programme is designed for mature, high-impact professionals with significant leadership experience. The selection process emphasizes professional/practical maturity, and a commitment to service and excellence who are obliged to meet the underlisted conditions: 

  • Submit a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) that will serve as the basis for a Portfolio Assessment Report, detailing your academic and professional experiences, works, contributions to humanity, and other relevant information.
  • Must be 40 years and above in age
  • Holds a First Degree + Professional Certification + 15 years Career experience OR a Masters’ Degree OR PhD in any discipline
  • A formal Declaration of Interest, outlining your motivation and alignment with the purpose of the programme.
  • You must identify your preferred EPD specialization, selecting from the available degree options specified above.

Duration: Short-term (Six to nine months), no coursework required.

Requirements:

  • Submission of an Executive Dossier that may take the form of Case Study, Professional Publication of any work in your preferred area of interest, or evidence of impact to demonstrate advanced professional competence, strategic thinking, and impact through research-informed leadership practice.
  • Make a professional presentation of the Executive Dossier before a Body of Academic Assessors.