The Summer of 2022 saw University of Phoenix’s College of Doctoral Studies release the 14^th edition of its Phoenix Scholar™ academic research journal. This edition featured research from the University’s Career Optimism Index® study, which the Career Institute® oversees, and compiles the study findings of the research conducted by faculty, students and alumni  from the University’s College of Doctoral Studies, Center for Educational and Instructional Technology Research (CEITR), Center for Leadership Studies and Organizational Research (CLSOR) and Center for Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Research (CWDIR).

Why University of Phoenix Created Phoenix Scholar

University of Phoenix created Phoenix Scholar™ journal to acknowledge the commitment of its faculty, students and alumni to lead research through evidence-based practice.

As the academic research publication of the College of Doctoral Studies, the Phoenix Scholar serves as the scholarly platform for communicating both the University’s research results and outcomes as well as its relationship with the broader scope of learning and scholarship.

University of Phoenix is well-established as a leader in online education and uses its research to suggest solutions for issues relating to workplace diversity, instructional technology and leadership. These solutions aim to help students, alumni and faculty work toward and expand their career aspirations while improving communities.

The Career Optimism Index Study and the Career Institute

University of Phoenix’s Career Optimism Index® study, which informs Phoenix Scholar, examines dynamics in American workforces by uncovering the insights of both workers and employers into workplace culture, relationships, challenges and opportunities.

University of Phoenix’s Career Institute® has committed to running this study every year to stay abreast of workforce trends. This way, the Institute can suggest solutions to support and advance both the University’s graduates and other individuals in their careers and can create equity in the workplace.

The Institute addresses broad, persistent and systemic barriers to career advancement through its partnerships and research-informed solutions, each of which aims to help U.S. citizens overcome barriers in their careers.

University of Phoenix’s researchers examine high volumes of data to come up with practical actions and solutions to workplace challenges. They detail these in whitepapers, making their recommendations accessible for practitioners and other industry professionals. Recent whitepapers include:

• Who is Responsible for Employee Well-Being? The Role of Employers and Resourcing for the Mental Health of Their Employees
• Supporting the Mental and Emotional Health of Nurses Within the Hospital Setting
• Belonging: A New Era in Diversity Management Strategy.

This kind of research is essential to combat common workplace issues: 52 percent of U.S. workers believe they are easy to replace in the workplace, and 41 percent worry they may lose their job. Meanwhile, many employers don’t seem to understand employee needs for career advocates or how limited skill development opportunities can be.

Although 68 percent of workers would stay in their jobs if they had more upskilling opportunities, employers often find obstacles to investing in learning and development.

The College of Doctoral Studies

The College of Doctoral Studies, which publishes the Phoenix Scholar™ journal, examines the business and organizational needs of modern workplaces, addresses key social issues and develops solutions to fast-track community building and industry growth.

The College of Doctoral Studies’ research delves into career perceptions, especially those involving:

• Women
• Minority groups
• Gender wage gaps
• Happiness
• Stress management
• Post-COVID “new normal”
• Education status
• Upskilling and career management
• Multigenerational workforce implications

The College’s research program places students in the middle of a thriving ecosystem of specialists, resources and tools that they can leverage to become effective leaders in their workplaces, industries and communities. Through the program, students and researchers collaborate with organizations to conduct research that can be applied to workforces immediately.

Individuals who are looking to stand out in their fields and benefit their communities can earn a doctorate degree through University of Phoenix. The University offers a variety of doctorate degree programs with up to eight start dates, allowing students to begin their studies around their busy schedules and other commitments.

Learn more about University of Phoenix’s online doctorate degree programs.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is committed to helping adult and nontraditional learners advance their educational goals and to helping students navigate the career options and degree programs that best suit their interests. The University offers degree programs that align with numerous in-demand career paths including cybersecurity, nursing and business. They also provide online classes, flexible start dates and numerous scholarship opportunities to make it possible for anyone to earn a degree. On top of this, University of Phoenix’s Career Services for Life® commitment for both active students and graduates provides the resources needed to be prepared when entering the workforce for no additional charge. These services span from resume and interview support and career guidance to education and networking opportunities. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.