Shaquille O’Neal Fires Back at Doubters of His PhD

O’Neal actually holds 3 degrees. A bachelor’s, an MBA, and a doctorate. He wants people to understand that education is crucial, even when you have reached NBA success and built a $500 million net worth.

As a father of six and a mentor to many younger fans, he uses his time in the classroom as a living example. He reminds the next generation that education should never be ignored. 

Right after graduating in 2012, he reminded reporters about his hard work and the late nights studying. 

The Real Story Behind Shaquille O’Neal’s Hard-Earned Doctorate

O’Neal earned a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Learning and Leadership with a specialization in Human Resource Development. He received this from Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida, on May 5, 2012.

Shaq spent four and a half years, from 2007 to 2012, completing the program while still playing his final seasons in the NBA. He finished 54 credit hours, completed 16 courses, did 6 hours of research, and maintained a 3.813 cumulative GPA.

When graduation day arrived at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, he celebrated alongside more than 1,100 other students. His program required a capstone project. His research focused on the duality of humor and seriousness in leadership styles. 

Shaq left Louisiana State University early for the NBA draft in 1992 but returned in 2000 to finish his bachelor’s degree. He then completed his MBA online from the University of Phoenix in 2005. Many reports show he is currently pursuing a master’s in liberal arts.

The motivation behind this entire journey was his mother, Lucille O’Neal. She herself earned an honorary doctorate in 2016 and always wanted Shaq to complete his educational duties. 

O’Neal has shown that true respect in the classroom is earned, never bought with fame. Do you think it’s important for professional athletes to complete college degrees?