How Military Leadership Experience Relates to Successful Higher Education Leadership

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D)

Department

Higher Edu and Learning Technology

Date of Award

Fall 2025

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify how military leadership relates to successful higher education leadership. Leaders in higher education must be prepared to address the needs of their institutions and shareholders effectively. A thorough review of the literature revealed that experienced former military leaders are frequently overlooked as leadership candidates in higher education. This study explored how the leadership training and skills of military leaders are appropriate and relevant to leadership positions in higher education institutions. Three main research questions were examined during the study: (1) How do former military leaders describe the relationship of their previous military experiences to successful higher education leadership? (2) How do previous military training, knowledge, and experience allow former military leaders to relate to leadership roles in higher education? (3) How do previous leadership knowledge and experience in the military translate to comparable effective leadership approaches in higher education? The sample consisted of 10 military veterans from branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who were currently serving, or had previously served, in leadership roles at higher education institutions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant. 5 Thematic analysis revealed military leadership training improved participants’ perceived ability to serve as higher education leaders. Findings emphasize the value of past military leadership for higher education leadership roles

Advisor

David Tan

Subject Categories

Education

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