Centenary University to launch world’s first Ph.D. in happiness studies this fall
New doctoral program builds on the success of the University’s Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, which has enrolled hundreds of students from around the world
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Centenary University President Dale Caldwell, Ed.D., has announced the launch of the world’s first Ph.D. in Happiness Studies, set to begin in a fully virtual format for the fall 2025 semester.
The 66-credit doctoral program builds on the success of the University’s Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, which enrolled its first class in fall 2022. Since then, hundreds of students from across the United States and around the world have registered, with the first cohort graduating in May 2024.
Grounded in science and research, the Ph.D. program takes an interdisciplinary approach to happiness, incorporating aspects of psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, finance, business, literature, coaching, religion, music, and more. The curriculum explores the role of happiness in individuals, the workplace, and society. Applicants are expected to have a Master of Arts in Happiness Studies or a related field, though Centenary will offer prerequisite coursework for those who need it.
Tal Ben-Shahar, Ph.D., a best-selling author and internationally recognized expert, directs Centenary’s happiness studies programs. He previously taught some of Harvard University’s most popular courses and has also taught at Columbia University.
“Centenary University is at the center of this revolution,” said Ben-Shahar. “Organizations recognize the high economic and human costs associated with mental health difficulties, and the numerous benefits flourishing employees provide. Graduates of Centenary’s Master of Arts in Happiness Studies and the Ph.D. program will be the leaders who will bring this into the workplace and our society.”
The master’s program graduated 87 students in spring 2024, representing 13 countries including the United States, Brazil, Canada, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines, South Africa, the United Kingdom, China, and Vietnam.
“The master’s program has been far more successful than many people expected,” said Robert Battistini, Ph.D., interim academic vice president at Centenary. “In the beginning, there were a lot of skeptics. Yet, at Centenary we’re seeing a real hunger for deeply informed mindfulness.”
The new Ph.D. aligns with President Caldwell’s strategic vision of advancing human flourishing through education. In addition to the existing programs, the University plans to introduce a Bachelor of Arts in Happiness Studies and a short, affordable course on foundational principles in the field.
“Centenary University is the center of this growing worldwide movement, and it’s getting bigger every day,” Caldwell said. “We have become a role model for other institutions, and now our graduates will be the ambassadors who go out to spread this important intellectual, emotional, and psychological movement around the world.”
