The focus of this research was to investigate the characteristics that led to persistence in a doctoral cohort program of study. The significance of this study is to provide insights into the specific aspects of the individuals that made them successful in an intensive program. A phenomenological case study approach, utilizing a comprehensive interview format, was used to gain a profound understanding of the phenomenon. The case for this study was the three-year Instructional Management and Leadership (IML) research doctoral cohort program at Robert Morris University. Nine graduates from Cohort I, II, and III served as participants. The four characteristics that were revealed in this study were Commitment/Discipline, Putting the Doctorate First, Prefer to Work Independently and Research Alone, and Full-time Employment.