Jersey City, N.J. – September 4, 2025 – Saint Peter’s University is proud to announce the launch of five new graduate-level academic programs designed to meet critical workforce needs and expand opportunities for lifelong learning. These new programs include the Master of Social Work (M.S.W.), Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Ed.D. in Educational Leadership – All But Dissertation (ABD) Completion Program, Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (K-12) and Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.).

“At Saint Peter’s, we are deeply committed to providing academic programs that are both mission-driven and responsive to the evolving needs of our communities,” said Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University. “These new graduate offerings reflect our dedication to preparing students for meaningful careers in high-demand fields.”

Master of Social Work (MSW)
The MSW program addresses the urgent need for qualified social workers across New Jersey and beyond. Grounded in social justice, the program offers concentrations in clinical practice and community leadership, preparing students to work in healthcare, education, nonprofit and governmental sectors. Students gain hands-on experience through practicum placements that strengthen their impact in diverse communities.

Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
In response to the growing need for mental health resources, this graduate program trains students to become licensed clinical mental health counselors. With a curriculum aligned with Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) standards, students gain expertise in assessment, diagnosis and therapeutic interventions across diverse populations and settings. The program emphasizes cultural competence, ethical practice and advocacy.

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership – All But Dissertation (ABD) Completion Program
This unique option is tailored for individuals who began a doctoral program but did not complete their dissertation. The ABD completion pathway at Saint Peter’s offers a streamlined route to earn the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, enabling students to finish what they started. With dedicated faculty mentorship and an emphasis on applied leadership, this program helps working educators and administrators achieve their academic and professional goals.

Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (K-12)
The new Ph.D. program prepares visionary leaders committed to shaping the future of K-12 education. With a rigorous focus on policy, equity, research and transformational leadership, graduates will be equipped to serve in school districts, research institutions, and policy organizations. The program fosters scholarship that drives meaningful change in the education system.

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
The new D.B.A. program is designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers in executive leadership, consulting or academia. Rooted in real-world application and evidence-based research, the program focuses on strategic decision-making, innovation and global business ethics. Students can tailor their studies by selecting from specialized concentrations in Artificial Intelligence & Ethics, Organizational Leadership and Business Analytics. The flexible format accommodates working professionals and emphasizes practical solutions to complex business challenges.

Saint Peter’s University continues to build on its tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. These new graduate programs reflect a bold step forward in supporting the professional aspirations of students while addressing urgent societal needs.

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For more than 150 years Saint Peter’s University, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, commitment to individual attention and grounding in the liberal arts, educates a diverse community of learners in undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and professional programs to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment. To learn more, please visit huangshizhaopin.com.

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Angeline Boyer
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