The World’s First Ph.D. Program in Happiness Studies

Could happiness be the future of higher education? At Centenary University in Hackettstown, New Jersey, the answer is a resounding yes.

On July 7, 2025, Centenary announced the launch of the world’s first Ph.D. in Happiness Studies: a fully virtual program designed to explore the science and significance of happiness across all areas of life. This exciting new program builds on the university’s groundbreaking Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, which has already welcomed hundreds of students from around the world.

So why happiness? And why now?

The idea behind this new program is simple: Happiness matters. It matters for our personal well-being, for the health of our workplaces, and for the strength of our communities. And now, it’s being treated with the academic depth and seriousness it deserves.

Led by internationally renowned expert Tal Ben-Shahar, Ph.D. (who previously taught two of the most popular courses in Harvard University history), the Ph.D. in Happiness Studies takes an interdisciplinary approach. It blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, business, coaching, the arts, and more to explore how happiness can shape our world.

In Dr. Ben-Shahar’s words, this program is part of a “revolution.” As more organizations recognize the importance of mental health, purpose, and well-being, they’re seeking leaders who understand how to create environments where people can truly thrive. Centenary’s Ph.D. graduates will be at the forefront of that shift, helping to introduce evidence-based practices that prioritize flourishing over burnout.

And they’re not stopping there.

University President Dale Caldwell, Ed.D., envisions a full pipeline of happiness-focused education, including a bachelor’s program and accessible short courses for lifelong learners. Centenary is becoming a global hub for happiness education, empowering people everywhere to better understand, pursue, and share what it means to live a good life.

We love seeing happiness make headlines—and make history. This new program shows that our collective well-being is worth understanding, supporting, and investing in. And its future is just beginning.

Happiness Posts is published by Darin M. Klemchuk founder of Klemchuk PLLC, an intellectual property law firm located in Dallas, Texas and co-founder of Engage Workspace for Lawyers, a coworking space for lawyers. He also publishes the Ideate (law) and Elevate (law firm culture) blogs. You can find more information about his law practice at his firm bio and also at his BioSite.