education administration phd

College of Professional Studies

Northeastern University’s online Doctor of Education program provides experienced adult learners, working professionals, and scholar-practitioners from diverse backgrounds and perspectives with the practical knowledge and experience they need to transform the learning landscape. Students gain innovative approaches to create authentic change in their communities. The program was selected as the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate's Program of the Year for 2022-2023.

The Doctor of Education program is designed to be completed in three to four years of study—following a fast-paced quarter system in lieu of a traditional semester format. Students choose from five concentrations to create a curriculum that matches personal and professional interests. The program's dissertation in practice process will begin at the onset of your coursework as you identify your problem of practice and develop an action plan—incorporating cycles of data collection and analysis, collaboration, change work, and reflection—culminating in the dissemination of your action research findings. Our students come from diverse disciplines and professions, seeking more than just a degree. You'll gain a practical education that translates to your everyday working environment.

While all EdD courses can be completed online (except for hybrid courses in Seattle and Charlotte), annual in-person two-day residencies are held on campus. Residencies focus on networking and tools for career success and allow you to connect with faculty and fellow scholars to share knowledge and experience. You'll attend residencies* in your first and second years of the program at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.

The Northeastern Doctor of Education degree is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and was selected as Program of the Year by the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Program for 2022-2023.

*Please note: International students enrolling in the online EdD program will be provided with an option to complete the residency through online participation in interactive sessions with fellow scholars offered during the residency period.

More Details

Unique features.

• You will choose one of five concentrations—higher education administration, innovative teaching and learning, transformative school leadership, workplace learning, and integrative studies—to focus your studies and further customize your curriculum.
• You'll begin dissertation in practice work at the onset of your program. You'll select a compelling educational/organizational challenge and will be assigned a faculty advisor to support your research throughout the program.
• All coursework is online—providing flexibility for working professionals. Your residencies will be fulfilled in person*, at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.
• You'll learn alongside faculty practitioners—engaging with respected leaders who contribute to the field as authors, journal editors, school board members, bloggers, and podcasters.

*In-person participation in the residency is also available for international students.

Concentrations

• Higher Education Administration: The higher education administration concentration provides an opportunity for experienced higher education professionals to expand their previous understanding of practices within all sectors of postsecondary education—and also advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their understanding of the roles of colleges and universities in our society. Sectors examined include community colleges, four-year colleges, for-profit institutions, and research universities.
• Innovative Teaching and Learning: The innovative teaching and learning concentration focuses on transforming education through innovation, justice, and policy, by providing engaging opportunities for current and aspiring teaching and learning specialists working in various education spaces. The concentration focuses on teaching and learning both inside and outside the bounds of P-20 schools and focuses on developing and leading innovative curricula as well as professional development.
• Transformative School Leadership: The transformative school leadership concentration provides innovative opportunities for experienced education professionals who are current and aspiring leaders of early childhood centers, public or private schools, or school districts. The concentration prepares students to lead and transform educational spaces and be equipped to shape the needs of education in K-12, higher education, organizational contexts, and beyond.
• Workplace Learning: The workplace learning concentration helps professionals gain a deeper understanding of, recognize, and influence real-life social inequalities faced by marginalized populations in the workplace. Courses allow students to advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their knowledge of workplace learning, organizational dynamics, learning strategy, and ethics.
• Integrative Studies: The integrative studies concentration provides an opportunity for students to design a program of study that fits their own professional goals and includes the required foundation and research courses, concentration courses from any EdD concentration, and electives from the Doctor of Education or Doctor of Law and Policy programs.

Program Objectives

Northeastern's Doctor of Education program is designed for experienced professionals interested in deepening their understanding of education, organizational development, and leadership. Throughout the program, students examine various approaches to critical, practice-based issues, learn research methods, and conduct a doctoral research study that investigates a compelling educational or organizational challenge.

2022-2023 Doctor of Education Program of the Year

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate selected Northeastern's EdD program as the 2022-2023 Program of the Year, noting the “redesigned Dissertation in Practice Curriculum and the adoption of action research as its guiding methodology …” The committee praised “the program’s efforts to move beyond the typical five-chapter dissertation and engage scholarly practitioners in the acquisition of skills to realize meaningful change in their local contexts, emphasizing social justice.”

Testimonials

– sara ewell, phd, assistant dean, graduate school of education, – frawn morgan, current student, doctor of education, – aaron b., program graduate, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• Academic transcripts: Official undergraduate and graduate degree documentation
• Describe the problem of practice
• Explain why you want to investigate it
• Provide a strong rationale for the significance of the problem
• Minimum work experience: Three years in a related field
• Professional resumé: Must summarize work and education history, include an outline of your educational/academic skills with examples such as research and teaching experience, affiliations, publications, certifications, presentations, and other professional skills.
• Faculty recommendation: Must be from a faculty member in your previous graduate program who can attest to your readiness for doctoral work. If you are no longer acquainted with a faculty member, please choose a professional who can speak of your academic capabilities to engage in doctoral-level research and writing. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Two professional recommendations: Must be from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities, a supervisor, mentor, or colleague. It is preferred that one letter of recommendation come from your current employer and/or supervisor. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Proof of English language proficiency: ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

The core of the mission of the program is to allow educators to remain in the places they work, focus on a problem of practice, and through experiential learning and site-specific research opportunities in the program, make an immediate impact in their professional environments. The program explicitly integrates research and practice for professionals so they develop the requisite skills for conceiving, designing, conducting, and producing original site-based research in order to effect ethical change related to real-life problems of practice.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Joseph McNabb, PhD

Cherese Childers-McKee, PhD

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Education & Learning alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Boston Public Schools
• Chicago Public Schools
• NYC Department of Education
• Lockheed Martin
• Veterans Affairs
• Johns Hopkins
• Columbia University

What They Do

• Media Consultant
• College President
• Chief Information Officer
• Instructional Designer
• Diversity Officer
• Founder-CEO
• VP of Student Services
• Community Services Director

What They're Skilled At

• Experiential Learning
• Team Building
• International Education
• Change Agency
• Entrepreneurship
• Urban Education
• Strategic Management
• Student Engagement

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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Best Educational Administration Programs

Ranked in 2023, part of Best Education Schools

These graduate programs are geared toward educators

These graduate programs are geared toward educators who may become principals, superintendents or higher education professionals. The following are the top schools for programs in education administration and supervision. Read the methodology »

For full rankings, GRE scores and student debt data, sign up for the U.S. News Education School Compass .

Here are the Best Educational Administration Programs

Vanderbilt university (peabody), michigan state university, teachers college, columbia university, university of texas--austin, harvard university, university of wisconsin--madison, stanford university, university of michigan--ann arbor, university of virginia.

SEE THE FULL RANKINGS

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Nashville , TN

• # 1 in Educational Administration and Supervision
• # 6 in Best Education Schools

$2,215 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$2,215 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

809 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University (Peabody) has an application deadline... Read More »

Education school

Tuition and fees (doctorate).

$2,215 per credit (full-time)

$2,215 per credit (part-time)

ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

Average gre verbal (doctorate).

East Lansing , MI

• # 2 in Educational Administration and Supervision  (tie)
• # 21 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$875 per credit (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,687 per credit (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

666 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at Michigan State University has an application deadline of Dec. 1. The application fee for... Read More »

$875 per credit (in-state, full-time)

$1,687 per credit (out-of-state, full-time)

New York , NY

• # 1 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$1,913 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,913 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

3,192 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The education school at Teachers College, Columbia University has a rolling application deadline. The application fee... Read More »

$1,913 per credit (full-time)

$1,913 per credit (part-time)

Austin , TX

• # 4 in Educational Administration and Supervision
• # 16 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$9,274 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$18,032 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

610 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at University of Texas--Austin has an application deadline of Dec. 1. The application fee for... Read More »

$9,274 per year (in-state, full-time)

$18,032 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Cambridge , MA

• # 5 in Educational Administration and Supervision
• # 9 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

N/A TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

707 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee for the education program at Harvard University is $85. The Graduate School of Education at Harvard... Read More »

Madison , WI

• # 6 in Educational Administration and Supervision
• # 3 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$10,728 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$24,054 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

765 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The School of Education at University of Wisconsin--Madison has an application deadline of Nov. 30. The application fee... Read More »

$10,728 per year (in-state, full-time)

$24,054 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Stanford , CA

• # 7 in Educational Administration and Supervision  (tie)
• # 7 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$56,487 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

343 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee for the education program at Stanford University is $125. Its tuition is full-time: $56,487 per... Read More »

$56,487 per year (full-time)

Ann Arbor , MI

$26,392 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$53,178 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

404 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The School of Education at University of Michigan--Ann Arbor has a rolling application deadline. The application fee... Read More »

$26,392 per year (in-state, full-time)

$53,178 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Charlottesville , VA

• # 9 in Educational Administration and Supervision

$28,380 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$599 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

445 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The School of Education and Human Development at University of Virginia has an application deadline of Jan. 2. The... Read More »

$28,380 per year (full-time)

$599 per credit (part-time)

Ohio State University

Columbus , OH

• # 10 in Educational Administration and Supervision  (tie)
• # 25 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$12,092 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$38,693 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

571 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education and Human Ecology at Ohio State University has an application deadline of Dec. 1. The... Read More »

$12,092 per year (in-state, full-time)

$38,693 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Pennsylvania State University--University Park

University Park , PA

• # 49 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$24,466 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$41,602 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

430 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at Pennsylvania State University--University Park has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$24,466 per year (in-state, full-time)

$41,602 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

University of Washington

Seattle , WA

• # 11 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$17,390 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$32,074 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

692 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at University of Washington has an application deadline of Jan. 8. The application fee for the... Read More »

$17,390 per year (in-state, full-time)

$32,074 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

See all 42 Ranked Schools

Get the U.S. News Grad Schools School Compass and start finding the grad schools school that's right for you. You'll have access to expanded data including GMAT scores, financial aid information, graduate salary and employment statistics and more!

More Schools in this List (Alphabetical)

Arizona State University (Fulton)

Phoenix , AZ

• in Educational Administration and Supervision
• # 18 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$12,014 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$24,498 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

847 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University (Fulton) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$12,014 per year (in-state, full-time)

$24,498 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Boston College (Lynch)

Chestnut Hill , MA

$1,600 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,600 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

492 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Lynch School of Education and Human Development at Boston College (Lynch) has an application deadline of Jan. 4... Read More »

$1,600 per credit (full-time)

$1,600 per credit (part-time)

Florida State University

Tallahassee , FL

$404 per credit (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,111 per credit (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

726 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at Florida State University has an application deadline of July 1. The application fee for the... Read More »

$404 per credit (in-state, full-time)

$1,111 per credit (out-of-state, full-time)

Fordham University

• # 153 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$1,560 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,560 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

198 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Graduate School of Education at Fordham University has an application deadline of June 30. The application fee for... Read More »

$1,560 per credit (full-time)

$1,560 per credit (part-time)

Indiana University--Bloomington

Bloomington , IN

• # 36 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$450 per credit (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,515 per credit (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

370 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The education school at Indiana University--Bloomington has an application deadline of Jan. 15. The application fee for... Read More »

$450 per credit (in-state, full-time)

$1,515 per credit (out-of-state, full-time)

New York University (Steinhardt)

$51,186 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$2,020 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

1,752 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University (Steinhardt) has an... Read More »

$51,186 per year (full-time)

$2,020 per credit (part-time)

North Carolina State University--Raleigh

Raleigh , NC

• # 31 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$9,095 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$28,301 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

400 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at North Carolina State University--Raleigh has an application deadline of June 25. The... Read More »

$9,095 per year (in-state, full-time)

$28,301 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

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Educational Administration

One of the premiere programs in the United States, Educational Administration at Ohio State is a leadership program training the country’s future school district superintendents, school principals and teacher leaders. Get extensive research and in-the-field experience giving you a distinct advantage as a leader in education.

Degrees and Programs

The PhD in Education Administration positions candidates to get a global view of educational administration that includes the organizational behavior, politics and economics of education. A major focus of the PhD program is on research that will advance education to help candidates become leaders and contribute to the creation of new knowledge in the field.   EdD in Education Administration positions candidates to identify problems of practice, research them and provide informed and meaningful learning experiences grounded in educational practice. This program is optimal for those interested in becoming organizational leaders such as superintendents, university program directors, deans and provosts.

Some coursework required for the Master’s Degree can be applied to our EdD or PhD in Educational Administration, providing an opportunity to work on two degrees in tandem.

Student Opportunities

While several faculty take PhD students to engage in and extend their research interests, the Novice Fawcett Research Scholars are students selected to study educational leadership with the Novice Fawcett Chair. The chair and scholars are funded by an endowment made possible through the generosity of the friends and family of Novice G. Fawcett, the eighth president of The Ohio State University.

Provides doctoral students of color with a system of support for entrance into the professorate and enhancing the various universities' ability to recruit and support scholars of color collectives.

Brings emerging educational administration and policy scholars and noted researchers together for two days of presentations, generative discussion, and professional growth.

Provides an opportunity for emerging scholars to interact with leading politics and policy of education scholars.

Alumni Features

Program Stories

From teaching language learners to motivating students online, college resources and videos provide support

Before Philip T.K. Daniel was awarded Ohio State’s Distinguished Service Award, opposition and preconceived notions drove the professor to push for education change.

Research scientists at Ohio State found that strong relationships have more impact on student test scores than school funding alone. Read Professor Roger Goddard's findings and tips on how to increase social capital in schools.

New research shows that teachers' sense of support and capabilities to educate their students has big impact.

Member organizations

• The  University Council for Educational Administration  
• The  Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate  
• The Ohio Council of Professors of Educational Administration  **
• Education Law Association  
• National Education Finance Academy  
• International Positive Psychology Association  

• OU Homepage
• The University of Oklahoma

Online Ed.D. in Education Administration | OU Online

Online Doctor of Education in Education Administration

Become a changemaker for education., make informed decisions in complex settings.

The OU Online Doctor of Education in Education Administration is a 100% online, 54-credit-hour program that takes 36 months to complete. Led by renowned educational leaders and scholars from OU’s Jeanine Rainbolt College of Education, the program emphasizes relationship-building in a cohort model through community groups, networking events, and collaborative projects. The program, accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), culminates with a problem of practice dissertation completed during coursework in the program's third year.

Choose from the following concentrations:

PK-12 Educational Leadership

Learn cutting-edge research and leadership skills to help advance your career in PK-12 school district-level education, including assistant, associate, and superintendent positions and human resources administration.

Higher Education Leadership

Apply current scholarship and research skills to advance your career in colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations. You’ll be prepared for positions in student affairs, student support services, institutional research, and higher-level positions like dean or provost.

Request Information

Admission deadline.

Rolling admissions (applications due 14 days before the intended start date).

Program Start Terms

Fall, Summer

Academic Calendar

Stay up to date with OU holiday closings, deadlines, and more.

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Benefits of the Education  Administration Doctoral Degree

Meet today’s growing demand.

As today’s educational landscape grows increasingly complex, there is a growing need for quality leaders who can meet these new challenges. Become equipped with the advanced knowledge and skills others lack and become an educational change agent in your organization.

Strong Career Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of postsecondary administrators is projected to grow 4 percent by 2032. An estimated 15,300 job openings are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of these openings will result in the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire.

Flexible Format

Learn in a flexible, online program designed for working professionals. You’ll engage in discussion with professors and fellow students with opportunities to work together and collaborate.

OU Online graduates find employment within six months after graduation

OU Online graduates report earning an annual salary of $75,000 or more

OU Online students say the skills they gained in their program made them more competitive in their career field

Pursue Your  Education  Administration Doctoral Degree

Take the next step in your career with a degree from the University of Oklahoma. Applications are reviewed year-round for fall, spring, and summer sessions. Choose your program, choose your start, and apply today.

Program Breakdown

OU Online’s Doctor of Education in Education Administration program is structured to prepare students for job advancement and leadership by cultivating a deeper understanding of challenges in today’s educational settings. Students will learn how to lead change in their careers and gain the tools necessary to make positive and lasting changes in the organizations and educational settings in which they interact.

The program hosts monthly coffee chats each Friday where students can network with faculty and industry leaders. After completing year two, students will have the option to attend an immersion experience on campus.

This program offers two concentrations – PK-12 Educational Leadership or Higher Education Leadership. Students can begin their curriculum in summer or fall terms. Courses will contain both asynchronous and synchronous components. Synchronous sessions are optional and will be recorded for playback.

PK-12 Educational Leadership Concentration

• Applied Quantitative
• Theoretical Paradigms in Education
• Visionary Leadership
• Qualitative Inquiry for Practitioners
• Program Evaluation
• Instructional Leadership in Educational Administration
• Dissertation Development & Advisory
• Educational & Community Relations
• Strategic & Financial Planning in Education
• Special Education Law
• Prospectus Development
• Advanced Inquiry
• Readings for Prospectus
• Policy Planning and Development

Higher Education Leadership Concentration

• Administration of Adult & Higher Ed
• Educational Technology Leadership
• Critical Literature in Adult & Higher Ed
• Diversity Issues in Higher Ed

How to Apply

Admissions to the online Doctor of Education in Education Administration are selective. To be considered, you must have a conferred master’s degree from an accredited institution.

To apply, students must:

• Complete the online application at  https://gograd.ou.edu/apply/
• Submit a current resume
• Provide official college transcripts from all institutions for both undergraduate and graduate degrees
• Background on the setting (e.g., school district, higher education institution, or non-profit organization)
• Description of the problem of the practice
• Importance of your problem of practice
• It is understood that the dissertation topic/interests may change, so you are not locked into this proposal if you are accepted into the program.  
• International students must demonstrate English proficiency.

The admissions committee operates under a rolling admissions process, and admissions may continue until two weeks before classes start. The program strives to respond to applicants within one week of submitting a completed application.

For more information about the admissions process, please complete the contact form below, and an admissions counselor will be in touch shortly.

If you would like to compare the estimated cost of your program with a typical financial aid package, use the  cost calculator  on our OU Online financial aid page. 

Graduate tuition waivers cannot be applied to OU Online programs. OU Online programs qualify for the OU Faculty/Staff Tuition Waiver & Fee Exemption, and we encourage you to check your eligibility.  

Tuition waiver and fee exemption package application

If you have questions regarding financial aid for your online program, please get in touch with the Online Aid office by emailing  [email protected]  or calling 405-325-2929.

Same Academic Excellence

Like every OU Online program, the Ed.D. in Education Administration is built on the foundation of world-class University of Oklahoma faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

An Investment in Your Future

Earning a Doctor of Education in Education Administration from OU Online gives you the advanced knowledge necessary to make informed and effective decisions in complex educational settings. You’ll learn to develop and implement strategic plans that drive positive change and innovation in educational organizations, gaining an expanded professional network as part of the global OU alumni community.

Tuition and fees for the program are $29,700 ($550 per credit hour). Books and additional materials are not included.

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Our tuition calculator can help you estimate your tuition and financial aid for your program of interest.

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Why OU Online?

We are a top-tier public institution offering high-quality, affordable, professional undergraduate and graduate programs committed to maintaining academic excellence online.

Our Online Programs

Every OU Online program is built on the foundation of world-class faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

Our OU Family

When you graduate from an OU Online program, you’ll join the network of 250,000 OU alumni and be forever part of the OU family. Become part of the tradition of excellence that OU has established in its 130-year history.

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Doctor of Education Leadership

Additional Information

• Download the Doctoral Viewbook
• Admissions & Aid

America needs transformative leaders in preK–12 education whose passion for education quality and equity is matched by a knowledge of learning and development, the organizational management skills to translate visionary ideas into practical success, and a firm grasp of the role of context and politics in shaping leadership. Graduates of the three-year, multidisciplinary Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) Program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education will be prepared to become those leaders.

The Ed.L.D Program — taught by faculty from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Harvard Business School, and the Harvard Kennedy School — will train you for system-level leadership positions in school systems, state and federal departments of education, and national nonprofit organizations. Ed.L.D. is a full-time, three-year program built on a cohort learning model. Cohorts consist of up to 25 students from diverse professional backgrounds (including district/charter management leaders, nonprofit directors, principals, teachers, and policy researchers) who progress through the program together.  

All Ed.L.D. students receive a full tuition funding package plus stipends, work opportunities, and a paid third-year residency at a partner organization. 

The Ed.L.D. Program prepares graduates to do work for the public good in the American public education sector, whether that be at the system or state level. Specifically, the program is designed to accelerate the progress graduates make toward achieving meaningful impact in influential roles and/or crossing boundaries in the following spaces in the public education sector: 

• PreK–12 district or CMO leadership roles : superintendent of schools, chief academic officer, and/or deputy superintendent
• Foundation/philanthropy roles:  director, president and CEO, senior fellow
• Education nonprofit roles : president or executive director of backbone or collective impact organizations which support preK–12 schools. Ed.L.D. graduates will lead education nonprofits that explicitly focus on improving outcomes and opportunities for children, families, and communities.
• State or federal education leadership roles : commissioner or deputy commissioner roles. Could also include public education advocacy or education policy advisers to senior government officials.
• Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation roles:  Founder, CEO, president

Curriculum Information

The Ed.L.D. curriculum is a balance of multidisciplinary coursework and practice-based learning. Core courses and electives are taught by recognized leaders from across Harvard’s graduate programs in fields like data-based education reform, organizational change and innovation, and effective leadership strategies for urban schools. You will develop and test your leadership skills through team projects and an immersive third-year residency.

All students in the cohort take the same classes in four foundational content areas: learning and teaching, leadership and organizational change, politics and policy, adult development, and leadership inside and out (including one-on-one executive coaching). Courses taken during the first-year focus on practice-based learning and serve as the framework of your first-year experience.

Sample HGSE Courses

• Leading Change
• How People Learn
• Ed.L.D. Proseminar
• Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Learning
• Race, Equity, and Leadership
• Practicing Leadership Inside and Out
• Sector Change
• The Workplace Lab for System-Level Leaders

View  all courses  in the Academic Catalog.

Each cohort member works with program advisers to choose an individualized sequence of electives from any of the Harvard graduate schools. You will work closely with the program faculty and staff during your second year to determine the best match with a partner organization for your third-year residency. Matches are driven by mutual interest between the resident and the partner organization, and each student's career and learning goals and geographic preferences.

• Second Year Practicing Leadership Inside and Out
• Driving Change 
• Education Sector Nonprofits
• Negotiation Workshop
• Coaching with Equity in Mind
• Ethnic Studies and Education
• Deeper Learning for All:  Designing a 21st Century School System
• Institutional Change in School Organizations, Systems, and Sectors

You will take part in a 10-month paid residency at one of our partner organizations. There, you will work on a strategic project which synthesizes your experience and learning into a written Capstone project. You will stay connected to your Ed.L.D. cohort and HGSE through technology and by returning to Harvard periodically for intensive workshops.

Paid Residency 

Our partner organizations include school systems and departments of education, as well as some of the nation's most influential and dynamic nonprofit, mission-based for-profit, and philanthropic organizations.

You will be intentionally pushed out of your comfort zones and asked to work systemically and make a significant contribution to the partner organization. In addition, the residency will provide you with the professional mentoring, practical experiences, and network of connections they need to position themselves as future leaders in the education sector. 

Strategic Project 

You will define (with supervisors from your partner organization) a strategic project on which to focus. You will have the opportunity to lead one or two major efforts on behalf of the organization, such as the creation or implementation of current initiatives. The project allows you to practice and improve leadership skills, add important value to the mission and strategy of the partner organization, work systemically, and hold high-level accountability.

During the residency period, you will produce a written Capstone. The Capstone is a descriptive, analytic, and reflective account of your third-year leadership contributions to a strategic project within an Ed.L.D. partner organization. It is a demonstration of your ability to engage others, develop strategy to successfully address and diagnose challenges, work toward a vision and goals, and learn from the results.

Sample Topics

• Accountability, Coherence, and Improvement: Leadership Reflection and Growth in the Los Angeles Unified School District
• Leadership Development for Entrepreneurial Education Leaders Working to Build Public & Private Sector Support
• Disrupting Teacher Preparation: Lessons in Collaboration and Innovation Across the Learning to Teach Community of Practice
• Pursuing Educational Equality for English Language Learners

Sample Summaries 

• Breaking Down Silos in a School District: Findings from an Ed.L.D. Project in Montgomery County
• Expanding Students' Access to Meaningful STEM Learning Opportunities Through Strategic Community Partnerships
• Developing a New Teacher Leadership and Compensation System in Iowa: A Consensus-Based Process
• Finding Great Teachers for Blended-Learning Schools

GSE Theses and Dissertations from Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH)

Program Faculty

Ed.L.D. students learn with renowned faculty from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard Business School, and Harvard Kennedy School. Faculty from the three schools share their individual expertise in the Ed.L.D. Program and work collaboratively to provide a challenging and coherent experience for students. Faculty who teach in the Ed.L.D. core curriculum and advise Ed.L.D. students include:

Faculty Director

Frank D. Barnes

Frank Barnes is faculty director of the Doctor of Education Leadership Program. He has over 30 years experience as an educator, researcher, and organizer. As a chief accountability officer, he led turnaround efforts for large public school districts, including Boston Public Schools and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

Kathryn Parker Boudett

Ebony N. Bridwell-Mitchell

Jennifer Perry Cheatham

Elizabeth City

Candice Crawford-Zakian

Marshall Ganz

Adria D. Goodson

Deborah helsing.

Monica C. Higgins

Deborah Jewell-Sherman

Lisa Laskow Lahey

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Irvin Leon Scott

Catherine Snow

Michael L. Tushman

Martin west.

How is the third third-year residency determined? Will I get to choose where I go and for whom I work?

You will work closely with Ed.L.D. Program faculty during your second year to determine the best partner organization match for your third-year residency. In ascertaining a match, faculty take a number of factors into account, including a students' career goals and geographic preferences. The program expects that the current list of partners will continue to grow based on organizational and student interest.

The Ed.L.D. Program has partnered with organizations that are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in American preK–12 education. The partners are school systems, nonprofit organizations, mission-based for-profit organizations, and government agencies, all pursuing a common goal of ensuring that every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. You will work directly with partner organizations in the third-year residency and have some exposure to partner representatives in the first two years of the program. Your work with our partner organizations will be encapsulated in a Capstone, which is descriptive, analytic, and reflective account of the your leadership and contributions to a strategic project. Summaries of Capstones by several members of the first cohort of Ed.L.D. graduates are available in the curriculum section.

Partner Organizations

Below is a sample list of current and/or previous Ed.L.D. partner organizations:

• Bellingham Public Schools
• Big Picture Learning
• Boston Public Schools
• Denver Public Schools
• Education First
• Harlem Children's Zone
• Jobs for the Future
• John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
• Madison Metropolitan School District
• New Haven Mayor’s Office 
• New Schools for Baton Rouge
• New Schools Venture Fund
• New York City Department of Education
• The Leadership Academy
• Phi Delta Kappa/Educators Rising
• Providence Public Schools
• Rhode Island Department of Education
• South Carolina Public Charter School District
• Virginia Department of Education

Student Directory

An opt-in listing of current Ed.L.D. students with information about their interests, research, personal web pages, and contact information:

Doctor of Education Leadership Student Directory

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Doctor of Education Leadership experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Combatting Chronic Absenteeism with Family Engagement 

As post-COVID absenteeism rates continue unabated, a look at how strong family-school engagement can help

She Sets the Pace

Alum works to dismantle what it means to be a runner and a scientist

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Doctorate in Higher Education Administration

Where higher ed careers reach new heights.

Designed for working professionals, our research-focused EdD in Higher Education Administration program prepares aspiring educational leaders for senior and executive positions within the field. This doctoral program emphasizes leadership development, critical thinking, and research skills that are essential for cultivating scholarly identities, inquiry-driven learners, critically reflective practitioners, and socially just practices.

Taught by a faculty of renowned experts, the curriculum is centered on the practical application of theory and research, with a focus on addressing current challenges and opportunities facing higher education institutions today.

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Leading Faculty & Professional Peers Engage in learning communities that draw upon real-world experiences shared by classmates with a broad range of diverse perspectives and professional backgrounds. Faculty are hands-on and highly regarded as scholars or scholar-practitioners and experts in the field.

Convenient Schedule In order to accommodate busy professionals who work both locally and nationally, the program offers flexible weekend classes that meet one time per month on Friday and Saturday.

Hands-On Professional Development The program provides a high-quality, fast-paced scholarly experience in which students can integrate theory and research seamlessly with practice. Unique to GW's program, you will have the opportunity to focus your dissertation on a problem of practice you've encountered within your higher education career.

The GW Advantage

The Higher Education Administration doctoral program leverages our location in Washington, D.C. - the epicenter of policy, practice, and research - to foster a community of scholar-practitioners, professional and research opportunities, and a commitment to diverse educational experiences. 

Our location also provides students with the distinct advantage of being a neighbor to national organizations, including The Department of Education, American Council on Education, ACPA and NASPA, American Educational Research Association, and a variation of colleges, creating valuable networking and career opportunities.

Jump to Section:   Curriculum   |  Admissions   |  Fees & Aid   |  Careers   |  Faculty   |  News   |   Events   |  Request Info

 Program at a Glance

Doctor of Education (EdD) in the Field of Higher Education Administration

Department:

Course delivery:.

Main Campus

Program Entry:

Avg. cohort size:.

The mission of the Higher Education Administration (HEA) program is to prepare exceptional leaders for administrative, academic, and research positions in two- and four-year higher education institutions, national and international associations, government agencies, and other post-secondary educational settings.

Our doctoral program seeks to cultivate scholarly identities, inquiry-driven learners, critically reflective practitioners, and socially just practices. 

Scholarly Identities : Scholarly identity is the product of your training, areas of expertise, methodological inclination, interests, publications, research agenda, reputation and anything else that may be important in your field. Thus, your scholarly identity is multifaceted and (ideally) signals to anyone who researches your work (googles you), what you have done, what you are doing and what you can potentially do in the future.

Inquiry-Driven Learner : An inquiry-based learning approach lets students share their own ideas and questions about a topic. This helps foster more curiosity about the material and teaches skills students can use to continue exploring topics they are interested in. Rather than simply memorizing facts, students make their own connections about what they are learning that leads to asking questions, making discoveries, and testing those discoveries in the search for new understanding.

Critically Reflective Practitioner : someone who, at regular intervals, looks back at the work they do, and the work process, and considers how they can improve. They ‘reflect’ on the work they have done.

Social Justice Practices : Social justice in education refers to a commitment to challenging social, cultural, and economic inequalities imposed on individuals arising from any differential distribution of power, resources, and privilege. According to NASPA, The social justice competency is defined as “both a process and a goal which includes the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to create learning environments that foster equitable participation of all groups while seeking to address and acknowledge issues of oppression, privilege, and power." We undergird this competency within our course frameworks, and our dispositions.

Cohorts will meet in-person on the Foggy Bottom Campus ( specific location to be shared in advance ), on the following dates.

Session Times : 8:10 am-12:00 noon; 1:10 pm-5:00 pm

Summer 2024

May 31, 2024-June 1, 2024

June 21-22, 2024

July 19-20, 2024

August 9-10, 2024

• September 6-7, 2024
• October 4- 5, 2024
• November 1-2, 2024
• December 6-7, 2024

Spring 2025

• January 24-25, 2025
• February 21-22, 2025
• March 21-22, 2025
• April 11-12, 2025

Summer 2025

• May 30, 2025-May 31, 2025
• June 20-21, 2025
• July 11-12, 2025
• August 1-2, 2025

As the highest level of academic achievement, our doctorate in higher education administration is designed to produce scholars and experts in the field. Program outcomes include:

Critical Thinking and Analysis : Students will learn to critically evaluate existing research, identify gaps in knowledge, and develop research questions that address those gaps.

Advanced Research Skills : Students will understand research methodologies specific to their field. They will be able to design and conduct original research and analyze and interpret complex data.

Original Contribution to Knowledge : Doctoral candidates are expected to make an original and significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge in their field through the completion of a doctoral dissertation.

Independent Scholarship : Doctoral candidates are expected to demonstrate the ability to work independently and autonomously. They will become capable of conducting research with minimal supervision, managing their time and resources effectively, and making informed decisions about their research direction.

Scholarly Expertise : Program graduates should acquire an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of existing theories, concepts, and research within their area of study, developing into subject matter experts.

Effective Communication : Candidates will increase their communication skills to effectively convey complex ideas and research findings through scholarly articles, conference presentations, and engaging in intellectual discourse within the academic community.

Teaching and Mentoring : Through hands-on experiential learning opportunities, students will acquire pedagogical, supervisory, and mentorship skills, as well as learn to deliver lectures.

Leadership and Professional Development : Students acquire the ability to lead research teams, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to the advancement of their field beyond their own research.

Ethical Conduct : As doctoral candidates are expected to adhere to high ethical standards in their research and professional conduct, participants gain a deep understanding of how to demonstrate integrity, respect for intellectual property, and awareness of ethical considerations related to human subjects or other ethical concerns specific to their field.

• Guide to Applying
• Admission Requirements
• Application Deadlines

GSEHD’s Office of Admissions invites you to apply for a spot in our program. Please review the following admission and financial information. Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD > To learn more about the program, admission process, and upcoming events, please connect with the GSEHD Admissions Team at [email protected] or 202-994-9283.

To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the online application form as well as the following required supporting documents. There is no application fee.

• Prerequisite: Master's Degree
• Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
• Statement of Purpose
• Candidates are required to submit a writing sample of their choice. The writing sample should reflect the candidate's potential for academic writing suitable for doctoral studies. There are no required page lengths, topics, or focus areas.
• 2 Letters of Recommendation (academic and/or professional)

*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants .

View more details about requirements     

Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2024. We encourage you to apply as early as possible.

For more information or to inquire about the next admissions cycle, contact the GSEHD Admissions Team at [email protected] or 202-994-9283.

 Tuition & Financial Aid

• Tuition Overview

We know embarking upon graduate school is a big decision - due in part to the costs of attending. At GW, we understand the time and thought behind making graduate school work for you. Please take a moment to learn more about the options and opportunities available to help fund your graduate education.

Learn more about scholarships, grants & financial aid    

Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location.

The tuition rate* for the on-campus EdD in HEA program is $1,870 per credit hour .

This program requires 53 credits .

Please note: Additional fees may apply for international students, late fees, etc. Current tuition rates may be updated during the year.

*Summer 2023, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024

View the current fee chart    

Scholarships are available to eligible admitted students. Review eligibility requirements and learn more about funding your education >

What I have learned continues to allow me to support and educate our future leaders, citizens, and movement builders during their college years. Furthermore, my applied knowledge and education has given me the confidence to lead complex organizations and advise colleagues at the most senior levels including university presidents, chancellors, and governing boards.

DAVID SURRATT Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, University of Oklahoma

 Career Outlook

The ever-evolving field of higher education requires exceptional leaders for administrative, academic, and research positions on college campuses, national associations, and government agencies. Our graduates are transforming the conversation and quality of experience at higher education institutions and organizations nation-wide. 60% of program graduates serve in roles of provost, board of trustees member, or tenure leadership.

The career paths you can take in this field are as vast and diverse as the world of higher education itself. For example, 

• Academic Leadership: president, provost, dean, department chair, or other leadership position
• Student Affairs: director or dean of student life, admissions, financial aid, diversity, equity and inclusion, or other areas related to student success and support
• Institutional Research: senior researcher; use data analysis to inform institutional decision-making and improve outcomes for students
• Policy and Advocacy: director of government relations or senior officer in governmental sectors; shape higher education policy and advocate for issues affecting higher education institutions and students
• Consulting: providing expertise and guidance to higher education institutions on a range of issues, from strategic planning to organizational development
• Scholar/Scholar-Practitioner: professor/associate professors

Meet a few of our recent alumni:

• Debra Bright - Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs, The George Washington University
• Chris E. Dome - President, Neumann University
• Tanya Millner-Harlee - Provost and Vice President for Learning, Anne Arundel Community College
• Thomas Harnisch - Vice President for Government Relations, State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO)
• Tracae McClure - Statistician, U.S. Department of Education
• Wayne Webster - (Incoming) President, Albion College
• Brett Weigle - Retired Colonel; Professor, Theater and Campaign Planning, War College
• Kristen Wong - Associate Director of Diversity, Equity, and Student Success, American Association of Colleges and Universities (AACU)

Students interested in pursuing this degree find positions within:

• Philanthropic Organizations & Foundations
• Colleges & Universities
• Think Tanks
• The Department of Education
• Government and Non-Governmental Entities

Higher Education Administration (EdD) Faculty

Assistant Professor, Higher Education Administration

Associate Professor, Higher Education Administration

Assistant Professor, Higher Education Administration; Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives

 HEA In the News

A Passion for Higher Education and Empowering Future Jewish Leaders with Robert Snyder

February 12, 2024

Alumnus Steve Arnold Awarded Ivy Tech Bloomington President's Award

November 14, 2023

GSEHD Alumna, Dr. Melvina Noel, Publishes Book

August 11, 2023

Upcoming Events

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Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development

• How to Apply
• Faculty / Contact
• Financial Aid

The Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development encompasses five specialties: Evaluation, Human Resource Development, P-12 Educational Administration, Postsecondary Educational Administration, and Sport Administration. Each prepares graduates to understand and perform basic and applied research in their specialty area. To learn more, just click on the area of specialization.

• Human Resources and Organizational Development
• P-12 Administration
• Post-Secondary Education
• Sport Administration

Alumni Profiles

I chose to study at U of L because of the faculty, many of whom are renowned researchers in human resource development. I was constantly impressed with the level of dedication and time that faculty invest in their students; not only to guide them towards to degree completion, but to prepare them for careers afterwards. I came into this program looking to learn more about human resource development and continue working as a practitioner, but fell in love with research and teaching, and now am a faculty member myself. My experiences in the doctoral program were positive and truly rewarding and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in human resource development. Dr. E. Kobena Osam, Assistant Professor, Northern Kentucky University Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development (Human Resource Development), 2018

I thoroughly enjoyed my doctoral journey at the University of Louisville. From start to finish, there was a consistent message of unlocking new truths through innovative research practices. I am especially thankful for the collaborative spirit and the critical feedback given by my dissertation committee. I am proud to be a U of L alumnus and draw regularly upon the skills that were honed in my doctoral studies to inform my work as an educational leader. Dr. Robb Smith, Superintendent, Bellevue Independent School District Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development (P-12 Administration), 2019

The ELEOD doctoral experience was transformative. I was taught how to look deeply at data relevant to my interests and given the opportunity for challenging ideas and debate. The experience has guided me as a professional and contributed significantly to who I am today. Dr. Cara DiMattina-Ryan, Chief Strategy Officer, Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area, Austin, Texas Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development (Higher Education Administration), 2018

My experience in U of L’s Educational Leadership and Organizational Development Ph.D. program was outstanding, particularly working with the faculty members in the Sport Administration track. They took a very hands-on approach to teaching me what it takes to be an effective faculty member. Not only did I learn to be an effective researcher, writer, and teacher, but I also experienced first-hand what great mentorship is. To this day, I still remain close to the faculty at Louisville, collaborating with them on research, connecting with them at academic conferences, and even guest speaking to current doctoral students in the program. Great people make great academic programs and Louisville has some of the best in our field. Dr. Nels Popp, Assistant Professor of Sport Administration, Co-Director, Center of Research and Intercollegiate Athletics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development (Sports Administration), 2007

My time in the Educational Leadership and Organizational Development Ph.D. program at the University of Louisville prepared me to be a strong leader in higher education. Specifically, the lessons I gained through the program’s coursework were practical, enhanced my knowledge and skillsets exponentially, and provided me with necessary application tools to be a successful practitioner. What I am most appreciative of is the support of the faculty in the ELOD program, my dissertation committee, and the many transformative conversations I engaged in with faculty and other students throughout my journey. The ELOD program is certainly a community of excellence of which I am proud to have been a part. Dr. Nadine Petty, Executive Director of the Center for Diversity & Enrichment, University of Iowa Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development (Higher Education Administration), 2017

I am really grateful for my time at Louisville. I learned so much about different methodologies, practices, and critical thinking. The program forces you to analyze what information is important and how to discern a scope of study, which in my case, has applied to both research and work settings. There are so many faculty at U of L that are content experts in different areas, so for anyone interested in those, finding a U of L faculty member that can oversee your research and help support your personal and professional goals is key. As a graduate, I’m happy to talk with anyone thinking of joining the Louisville family to discuss how it might work for you. Dr. Amanda Bowers, Director of Institutional Effectiveness & Assessment, Motlow State Community College Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development (Higher Education Administration), 2018

I am so glad that I chose to pursue my doctoral education at the University of Louisville. I really believe that the training and rigor I received stacks up against any other program in the country. The rigor throughout the classwork and dissertation process gave me the skills to be a productive researcher, but it was the expertise and commitment of the faculty that set me up to use those skills to make an impact in my field. As challenged as I felt in the program I felt even more supported and that is why I continue to work with so many of the colleagues, mentors, and friends I gained while at U of L. I can’t recommend the program strongly enough. It has been a big part of my success and I am confident it always will be. Dr. Matt Berry, Scholarship and Policy Director, Evolve502, Louisville, Kentucky Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development (Higher Education Administration), 2014

The Educational Leadership and Organizational Development doctoral program at the University of Louisville served an instrumental role in helping me develop the foundational skills to succeed as a faculty member at a research-intensive institution. I continue to draw upon the theoretical and practical knowledge I gained during my doctoral studies at U of L to help organizational leaders find better ways for achieving their respective goals, while also advancing scholarly knowledge through my research. Dr. Per Svensson, Assistant Professor, Louisiana State University Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development (Sports Administration), 2015

Adam Stieglitz is the Director of Operations and co-founder of the Andean Alliance for Sustainable Development. He received his bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Miami and a master’s degree in Public Administration from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in Monterey, California. His research interests include exploring effective ways of bridging academia with community development in order to promote social change. Adam is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Organization Development with an emphasis in Evaluation at the University of Louisville. Dr. Adam Stieglitz Ph.D., Educational Leadership & Organizational Development 2022

• Department of Educational Leadership, Evaluation and Organizational Development
• UofL Course Catalog
• Doctoral Student Handbook
• Comp Exam Declaration Form
• ELOD Comprehensive Examination Guidelines & Rubric
• Degree Requirements (Graduate Catalog)
• Program Sheet, 60 hours [PDF]

Planning of Program

The advisor and members of the Program Committee help the individual design a program of study. Normally this should be done almost immediately after admission. The student has no "official contract" until the program is signed by the three members of Program Committee.

The program requires a minimum of 90 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate degree. Courses from previous graduate work may be counted toward the 90 hours. At least 45 of the 90 hours must be earned at UofL. These 45 hours will include the 18 hours fulfilling residency and the 12 hours required for dissertation credit.

Professional Specialization (42 hours). Each student will choose one of five specializations. The particular coursework in any student's program will vary according to specific specialization requirements, program Committee decisions, and individual background and interests.

Specialization

• P-12 Administration, view curriculum information
• Post-Secondary Administration, view curriculum information
• Sport Administration, view curriculum information
• Human Resource Development, view curriculum information
• Evaluation, view curriculum information

Knowledge Development and Utilization (27 hours). Each student will carry out a substantial, creative project of scholarly quality. In developing dissertation topics, students are required to select topics that enable them to demonstrate the ability to conduct inquiry into processes and problems of educational institutions or community organizations. This component includes:

• Development of research competencies (15 hours). These courses develop basic understanding of research design and methodology and demonstrate competence in the critical analysis of research. All student must take ELFH 601 Applied Statistics (3) and it is a prerequisite for most research and statistics courses. Other courses may include:
• ELFH 602 Survey Research & Attitude Measurement
• ELFH 606 Evaluation of Educational Processes
• ELFH 701 Intermediate Statistics
• ELFH 703 Multivariate Analysis
• ELFH 704 Qualitative Field Research Methods
• ELFH 705 Qualitative Data Analysis and Representation
• Dissertation research (ELFH 795 Dissertation Research-12 hours). The student completes an independent study with the dissertation chair.

Electives (21 hours). This component allows considerable flexibility in planning a program.

Meeting Course and Program Requirements and Residency. Students should meet with their advisor to plan the scheduling of courses for several semesters at a time. Students must be enrolled (= registered) at the University of Louisville for a minimum of 18 hours within a 12-month period to meet the residency requirement. These hours must be completed during or after formal admission to the doctoral program.

There are two time limits for completion of the doctoral program: (1) Within five years after admission into the doctoral program students must complete all coursework and pass the comprehensive exams; and (2) the student must complete all other requirements for the degree within four years after passing the comprehensive examination and being admitted to candidacy. A doctoral degree student must have been admitted to candidacy not later than the end of the ninth month prior to the awarding of the degree, that is:

• August graduation: November 30 of preceding year
• December graduation: March 31 of the same year
• May graduation: August 31 of preceding year

The PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development has five specialties as described under Specialties.

The LEAD Department PhD Admissions Committee evaluates an applicant’s potential to succeed in the doctoral program, including academic writing and analysis, theory and conceptual processing, and overall program readiness. This evaluation of an applicant is conducted through a holistic review of an applicant’s fully submitted application materials. These materials include the following:

• Graduate Application
• Résumé or Curriculum Vitae
• Letters of Recommendation: 2 required letters of recommendation (academic references preferred, but required for all applicants whose undergraduate work was completed within the last five years)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants for whom English is not their primary language
• Transcripts: all official transcripts from any courses or degree programs taken at previous postsecondary institutions (other than dual credit)
• Personal Statement
• Analysis Essay

In addition, an applicant may also submit or participate in any of the following additional opportunities that are optional but not required for admission:

• Personal interview at the discretion of the committee
• Any academic or published works/ creative artifacts you have been a part of or produced

Additional information on each required and optional application materials can be found in the following sections:

Application Deadline

The ELOD PhD program admits students once each year for an August start date. The priority admission deadline for fellowships and scholarships is October 1st. The final deadline for admission consideration is February 1st. Students typically are notified of final admission decisions by early April.

Required Application Materials

University of Louisville Graduate School 2211 S Brook St, Houchens Bldg, Rm 105 Louisville, Kentucky 40292 The United States of America Email Address: [email protected] Phone Number: (502) 852-6495

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae. It is expected that applicants have prior academic and professional experience in their field of interest. The PhD program is intended for experienced professionals, holding relevant academic degrees and who are qualified to undertake advanced study at the doctoral level. It is important that the academic and professional experience of applicants match the educational focus of the program curriculum and the educational and professional orientation of the program faculty.
• Letters of Recommendation. Using the Graduate School on-line application choose two individuals familiar with your background to provide a Letter of Recommendation . Academic references preferred but required for all applicants whose undergraduate work was completed within the last five years.
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination – minimum score: 6.5.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination – minimum scores: 550 on the paper-based TOEFL, 213 on the computer-based TOEFL or 80 or higher on the internet-based TOEFL.
• Duolingo English Test with Subscores – minimum score of 105 and exam must have been taken after January 1, 2020. Note: Students who have earned a degree from an accredited college or university in the U.S. are not required to complete the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
• Send official transcripts for all previous undergraduate and graduate coursework from any courses or degree programs taken at previous postsecondary institutions (other than dual credit) to the address indicated below.
• Do not provide UofL transcripts previously submitted to the College of Education and Human Development.
• If you have records at UofL, but outside the CEHD, attach a note so indicating and we will secure them.
• It is expected that applicants would have GPAs of at least 3.5 for prior undergraduate and graduate degrees. Applicants submitting foreign transcripts must submit such transcript to analysis by either of the following two agencies and have the agency submit their report to the address below for inclusion in the application packet: World Education Evaluation Service or Education Credentials Evaluators .
• The applicant must send the official transcript to the transcript evaluation agency. The agency will do an evaluation according to US guidelines and mail an official copy of the evaluation to UofL. We do not need the transcript if we have the official evaluation from ECE or WES. The agency also validates that the transcript is official and legitimate. In some cases, the applicant may only have one official copy of the transcript. In that situation, WES or ECE will mail the official transcript back to the student after the evaluation has been completed.
• If you have a graduate degree from the U.S., this requirement is waived.
• As you author your Personal Statement, consider how your background and life experiences – including educational, cultural, financial, geographical, and/or other opportunities or barriers – motivated your decision to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Louisville.
• In your statement, share your research interests and career goals, as well as how you see this doctoral program helping you achieve those future goals as well as why you have chosen to pursue doctoral study at this time.
• Tell us about what you have done, what is unique about you, what you have learned and achieved (including evidence of progress) to support and recognize your accomplishments to date and how that has prepared you for doctoral study in this program.

Your essay should intertwine several messages that: (a) provide a background to your chosen topic; (b) inform your reader why your chosen topic is important and what is known about the topic; (c) articulate at least two approaches you could address your topic using research articles; (d) recommend an avenue or perspective in which to take along with supported rationale; and, (e) provide a summary with concluding remarks that bring your essay to a logical conclusion.

• Your essay should demonstrate a level of analysis and be between 2,500 and 3,000 words (approximately 8- 10 double-spaced pages) not including a title page, references or citations, tables, figures, or graphs.
• Include any references to literature and empirical research sources that you use to help shape your analytic essay. As applicable, please use the latest American Psychological Association (APA) citation style for citations and references in your essay.
• Your analysis essay does not need to be on a topic related to your doctoral studies, but it can be. Ultimately, we are interested in learning more about how you present a topic, offer competing perspectives, and your analysis associated with that discussion.

Optional Application Materials

• Personal Interview . Using a holistic process, the LEAD PhD Admissions Committee will evaluate your application packet. They may, at their discretion, invite you for a brief interview with faculty in your chosen area of concentration to learn more about your interests. The interview is optional, but often can be helpful in finding fit within an academic program of study.
• Applicants who do not submit GRE scores will be given full consideration to the program.
• If you have taken the GRE, and wish to submit your scores as an option, have the Education Testing Service forward scores to UofL (UofL's code for sending GRE scores is 1838).
• If you are a former UofL student and believe you scores are already at the University Graduate School, attach a note indicating so with your Graduate Application.
• Scores, whether a new applicant or a former UofL student, should be no more than 5-years old
• Academic Published Works/ Creative Artifacts . If you have published any academic research or been a part of some form of creative artifact that adds to your application packet, please feel free to include those works as a .pdf within your packet as optional material. All academic published works/ creative artifacts can be included in your graduate application packet. For any questions, please contact the Graduate Student Success Office at [email protected] .

Originality Statement

By applying for admission to the LEAD doctoral program, a prospective student affirms that the contents of the application, including the research proposal, analysis essay, and accompanying documents, etc. are the product of their own intellectual efforts. It is perfectly acceptable to use outside resources and materials as a part of the application. However, throughout the application materials, where appropriate, we expect that an applicant acknowledges those sources of inspiration, whether they be from published works, collaborations, or AI-based programs, through appropriate citations and references using the latest APA-style guidelines.

By submitting application materials, applicants acknowledge they understand that plagiarism, fabrication, or any form of academic misconduct is unacceptable and undermines the values of intellectual rigor and integrity. At the University of Louisville, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of academic honesty and ethical conduct throughout our Ph.D. application process, and we expect students who join our academic community to value and uphold the same standards and rigor.

Any intentional misrepresentation or breach of academic integrity could have serious consequences, including the potential denial or revocation of admission, or dismissal from the program.

Department of Educational Leadership, Evaluation and Organizational Development College of Education and Human Development University of Louisville Louisville, KY 40292 502-852-6475

Those interested in general information about the ELEOD PhD program should contact Dr. Mary Brydon-Miller at [email protected] . For specific program track information, please contact the following faculty for detailed information:

Evaluation - Dr. Jason Immekus

P-12 Educational Leadership - Dr. Kyle Ingle

Sports Administration - Dr. Chris Greenwell

Human Resources and Organizational Development - Dr. Brad Shuck

Higher Education Administration - Dr. Jessica B Buckley

Opportunities for Graduates

Advanced positions in the fields of education, training and development. Positions as a university professor in the field of education and human resource education. Positions in the fields of educational research and policy.

Scholarships, Fellowships and Financial Aid

• UofL Student Financial Aid Office
• Graduate Assistantships
• CEHD Scholarships and Financial Aid

2024 Best Online PhD in Education Administration [Doctorate Guide]

If it’s time to take your education career to its next stage, you may be considering a PhD in Education Administration.

Whether you’re interested in advancing educational practices through research or providing leadership for an academic organization, this degree could help you develop your expertise and credentials.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

If you already have a busy job as an educator, online programs can make it possible to fit doctoral studies into your life. Through online courses, you can prepare for a career in educational leadership and innovation.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Education Administration Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Andrews University

Andrews University offers a PhD in Higher Education Administration. The program requires 61 credits and usually takes 5 years of full-time study to complete. A prospective student may apply on a rolling basis to begin in the fall, spring, or summer. This program is intended for those who already have a master’s degree.

Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Aurora University

Aurora University offers a Doctor of Education that can be earned online. Courses are 8 to 16 weeks long, and a student can usually graduate in 3 to 6 years. Course options include Organizational Theory and Change Management, Advanced School District Finance, Proseminar in Educational Research, and more.

Aurora University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Ball State University

Ball State University offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision that meets licensing requirements for school superintendence in the state of Indiana. The program is mostly online but does require monthly in-person sessions. To graduate, the student must complete a minimum of 90 credits, including a dissertation.

Ball State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Bradley University

Bradley University offers an online program for an EdD in Higher Education Administration. A student can potentially finish it in 7 semesters. Coursework includes Boards and Educational Governance, Ethical and Political Foundations of Educational Policy, Financial Affairs in Higher Education, and more. A student in the program must also participate in internships and doctoral research.

Bradley University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University

Capella University offers a PhD in Education, Leadership in Educational Administration that can be earned online. The program requires 92 credits of courses such as Leading Diverse Schools, Teacher Supervision and Evaluation, and The Funding of Educational Institutions. To graduate, the student must also pass a comprehensive exam and complete a dissertation.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Drexel University

Drexel University offers an Educational Leadership and Management Doctorate with a concentration in Educational Administration. The program is offered completely online, with no residency requirements. It is designed to be completed on a part-time basis by those who work full-time and can typically be finished in 3 to 5 years.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Fordham University

Fordham University’s Educational Leadership, Administration and Policy Doctorate program is a part-time program that is available both online and on campus. It is intended for the student who already has a master’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant work experience. The program requires practicum experiences and a dissertation.

Fordham University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana State University

Indiana State University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration with a specialization in School Administration. The program uses a blend of online and face-to-face instruction. The s tudent progress through the coursework with a cohort, taking two courses at a time for 5 semesters and then usually taking about 2 years to complete the dissertation.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration that can typically be earned in 3 years. Classes are 100% online, and each one is 8 weeks long. The degree requires a total of 60 credit hours and includes courses such as Assessment and Accreditation, Economic Impact in Higher Education, and Teaching the College Student.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Northeastern University

Northeastern University’s Doctor of Education is available mostly online with occasional 2 day residencies on campus. The student can enroll either full-time or part-time and typically finish in 3 to 4 years. Northeastern uses a quarterly academic calendar. Available concentrations include Higher Education Administration, Innovative Teaching and Learning, Transformative School Leadership, Workplace Learning, and Integrative Studies.

Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Pennsylvania Western University

Pennsylvania Western University offers a 100% online program for an EdD in Education Administration and Leadership. The student in the program may earn a Superintendent Letter of Eligibility as well, and those who already hold this credential may enter with advanced standing. Course options include Qualitative Research in Educational Leadership, District Leadership for Finances, and Technology and Facilities Development.

Pennsylvania Western University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Southern Nazarene University

Southern Nazarene University offers a Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership. The student may begin working on their dissertations from the beginning of the program, and they can usually graduate within 3 years. Each course is just 6 weeks long, and the program offers six start dates each year. The degree is available both online and on campus.

Southern Nazarene University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

St. Cloud State University

St. Cloud State University offers an online program for an EdD in Higher Education Administration. The program is designed to help ensure students can still receive plenty of interaction with a diverse community of classmates. Each course is 8 or 16 weeks long. Students can typically graduate in about 3.5 years.

St. Cloud State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University’s Doctor of Education program is available mostly online, with a student orientation and three summer sessions on campus. Students can choose between 2 areas of emphasis: either Community College Administration or Higher Education College and University Administration. New cohorts start every fall, and the program can typically be finished in 3 years.

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Trident University International

Trident University International offers a PhD in Educational Leadership that can be earned 100% online. There are scheduling plans for 3, 4, and 5 years, so students can choose their own pace.

Trident aims to ensure that students can receive individualized support and opportunities to connect with peers. Four concentrations are available: Educational Technology, Health Education, Higher Educational Leadership, and Teaching, Learning and Development.

Trident University International is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Hawaii – Manoa

The University of Hawaii – Manoa’s online PhD in Education Educational Administration track offers a rigorous program for aspiring educational leaders. Potential courses include Organizational Theory, Policy Analysis, and Leadership in Diverse Communities.

Class durations may vary but generally follow a standard 16 week semester format. The curriculum is designed to foster comprehensive learning and research.

The University of Hawaii is accredited by the Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign

The University of Illinois—Urbana Champaign offers an online program for a Doctor of Education—Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership. Concentrations are available in Diversity and Equity in Education, Global Studies in Education, Human Resource Development, Learning Design and Leadership, and more.

The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The University of Nebraska—Lincoln offers an EdD in Educational Administration. Students can choose a specialization in Community Colleges, Higher Education, or P-12 System-Level Educational Leadership. The latter of these can enable students to qualify for a Nebraska Superintendent Endorsement. Courses are available both online and on campus.

The University of Nebraska – Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi offers an online program for an EdD in Education (Educational Administration P-12). The program typically takes 3 years to complete and does not require a dissertation. The program requires 54 credit hours of courses such as Public School Finance, Administrative Approaches to Technology, and Education Facilities Development and Management.

The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Leadership (for Administrators). The program requires the completion of 79 quarter credits of online coursework and one in-person residency. Courses include Leadership and Management for Change in Education, Collaborative Communication for Administrators, School Organizational Dynamics, and more.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Education Administration Programs

Most candidates for a PhD in Education Administrate are passionate about education and have committed themselves to a career of teaching and leading others.

If this sounds like you, earning a PhD in Education Administration online could be the opportunity to go further with your education and profession. Education administration is relevant to school leaders at all levels. Whether your work focuses on early childhood, K-12, or college education, you can benefit from studies in school admin.

Your classes may address:

• Business practices
• Curriculum selection and evaluation
• Diversity and social justice
• Education law
• Neuroscience
• School technology
• Research and data
• Teacher supervision
• Trends in education

A concentration for your doctoral degree in education would let you hone in on a particular aspect of this field. For example, you might want to specialize in leadership for a certain age group, such as preschool learners or college students. You might also prefer to focus on a topic like curriculum planning or school technology.

PhD programs often require a dissertation. That’s a research and writing project where you delve deep into studies on a topic of your choice. Many students spend several years on their dissertations. Some education doctorates require a practicum or an internship. For that, you’d work in a real-world educational setting and try putting classroom lessons into practice.

There is a variety of online PhD in Education Administration programs available. Some may be 100% online, but many require some in-person residencies. They are typically limited in number so that even busy professionals can make them work. Residencies provide opportunities to interact with faculty members and fellow student in a new way.

This degree program is appropriate for:

• Early childhood directors
• School principals
• District superintendents
• Higher education administrators
• College presidents
• Curriculum coordinators
• Textbook publishers
• Social service directors
• Workplace development managers

Some PhD programs are designed to lead to licensure. After graduating, you might meet your state’s requirements for becoming a school principal or superintendent.

Other programs are non-licensure tracks. They’re typically designed for people who already hold the appropriate licenses or for those interested in roles that don’t require licensure.

Common Online Education Administration Doctorate Concentrations

You may want to choose a specialization area for your degree. As you do, it’s helpful to keep your career goals in mind so that your coursework will support your ambitions.

Here are some common education administration concentrations:

• Curriculum and Instruction . If you lead through curriculum planning—such as an instructional coordinator or a textbook editor—this program could enhance the work you do. The topics covered might include data collection, classroom technology, curriculum evaluation, and brain science.
• Early Childhood Administration . If your focus is on the education of young children, typically from birth through age 8, then you may appreciate the unique perspective provided by an early childhood program. In your classes, you might learn about literacy development, project-based teaching, and family relationships.
• Higher Education . Whether your area of expertise is a community college or a major university, this concentration track can help you become a stronger leader in that context. You may study college trends, legal issues, school organization, and management practices.
• K-12 Administration . This program could be useful for a career as a school principal or a superintendent. In addition to classes on teacher evaluation and curriculum selection, you may study finance, human resources, facility management, and education law.
• Leadership in Schools . This concentration, which may apply to K-12 and college administrators, will focus specifically on shaping you as an influential leader. The courses might cover change management, mentorships, and education advocacy.

Your school could also offer other concentration tracks or give you the opportunity to customize your own specialization.

Education Administration Careers & Salaries

If you plan to earn an online PhD in Education Leadership, you may have your sights set on becoming a principal. Nearly every K-12 school, whether public or private, has a principal. Some have assistant principal positions as well, which could help you work your way toward the head role.

Schools’ administrative teams include people other than just principals, though. For example, instructional coordinators or curriculum specialists may have a background in administration. Those with experience as a K-12 administrator may eventually qualify to become a school superintendent. A district’s superintendent has the role of a chief executive for the school system.

In addition to local superintendents, there may also be regional and state education superintendents in your area. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median annual salary for jobs in education and training is $57,220, but a doctorate could help you qualify to earn well above this average.

Requirements for these jobs may vary among different school systems and states. Administrators are needed for younger children’s education as well.

While being the director of a preschool or a daycare doesn’t usually require a PhD, this level of education might help you secure a leadership role at the national level. For example, some graduates may work for a childcare chain or an early childhood advocacy group. Others may head up a community organization that supports kids’ learning and wellbeing.

Colleges need people with administrative training as well. Positions include student affairs coordinator, registrar, provost, academic dean, and even university president. Having a school administration PhD could also lead to teaching classes in the education department.

Your background could also be relevant to jobs in the training sector. Some graduates go on to lead workshops or development initiatives for educators or business professionals. A doctoral degree in education could also be useful in curriculum development. Some professionals in this sector work as writers or editors.

Educational Administration PhD Curriculum & Courses

Schools require certain core classes in their education administration program. You may also be able to shape your studies through concentration tracks, elective courses, or the research area you choose.

Here are some course examples:

• Change Management : You’ll learn how to lead school organizations through times of transition, and you may also discuss the role that change plays in staying effective and relevant.
• Community Relationships : The studies in this class may equip you with tools and ideas for fostering strong relationships between your school leadership, students, parents, and the community at large.
• Curriculum Leadership : Curriculum can play a key role in students’ educational experiences, so this course focuses on selecting, adapting, or changing the resources used in your school.
• Diversity in Education : During this class, you’ll explore ways to respect the diversity in your schools and to offer educational experiences that reach learners of all backgrounds.
• Education Research : As a doctoral candidate, it’s necessary to understand the techniques and methodology for conducting research and evaluating data.
• Evaluation and Supervision : Administrators are often responsible for overseeing classroom teachers, so you may learn how to conduct evaluations, provide directions, and encourage professional development.
• Finance for Schools : You’ll discuss funding sources, district budgets, and how to make financial decisions that are beneficial for students, teachers, and a school’s long-term good.
• Leadership for Higher Education : If your goal is to work in a college setting, you may take one or more classes about higher education challenges, opportunities, policies, and innovations.
• Policies in Education : This class covers national laws and regulations that guide educational practice, and it could also address advocacy for changes.
• Program Planning and Evaluation : You may learn how to assess community needs, design programs to match, and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your initiatives.

This type of program may also include one or more practicum experiences.

How to Choose an Online Education Administration PhD Program

Getting a doctorate is quite the commitment, so you may want to make sure you choose a college that will be a good fit for you. It’s helpful to consider the many characteristics of a school before you make your final decision. Here are some common deciding factors:

• Accreditation . Selecting a school with regional accreditation is a top priority for most professionals. You may also be interested in a program that has programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
• Concentrations . You might be able to pick a degree program that focuses on school principalship, curriculum planning, higher education administration, or another aspect of this field.
• Degree type . While a PhD can be a prestigious degree choice, you could also consider getting a Doctor of Education (EdD), which is geared toward practitioners rather than academics.
• Funding . You may be able to qualify for a partial or full scholarship at some colleges.
• Licensure . Not all PhD programs lead to licensure, so you might need to choose carefully if you require an administrative license.
• Prerequisites . For admission, some programs require you to have professional experience in the education field or be a licensed teacher or principal.
• Program requirements . Depending on the program, you might write a dissertation, complete an internship, or do a capstone project. You might also have a combination of these requirements.
• Residencies . You might be required to visit the school’s campus a few times during your doctoral studies. When researching programs, you might want to pay attention to how often these sessions are required and how long you’ll need to stay each time.
• Time commitment . You can expect to spend at least 3 years in a PhD program, and it may take you closer to 5 years. If you think you’ll need extra time, you can look for a school that allows up to 8 or 9 years in the program.

Selecting a PhD program is an impactful decision, and careful consideration could help you make the right choice for you.

Education Administration Ph.D Admissions Requirements

PhD admissions can be quite selective, so it’s helpful to create an application packet that highlights your strengths. Each college sets its own rules for PhD admission, but common requirements include:

• Academic and professional references
• GRE score (not required by all programs)
• Resume that demonstrates relevant professional experience
• Transcripts from previous undergraduate and graduate studies
• Writing samples

Not all schools require you to have a master’s degree or a set amount of experience in the field of education.

Educational Administration Doctoral Programs Accreditation

As an education professional, you likely know the value of a reputable school. To ensure that you attend a quality institution, it’s beneficial to pick a college or university that holds regional accreditation.

There are seven regional accreditors in the US. You can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) online to verify that your school is accredited by a recognized agency. Regional accreditation increases the transferability of your studies and enhances the respectability of your degree. An accredited degree might be required for state licensure or for schools to consider you a serious job candidate.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

School administration jobs can pay well, but you first have to get the education that will help qualify you for those roles.

As you think about how you’re going to pay for a doctoral degree, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . As a graduate student, you may be eligible for state and federal loans. Grants aren’t as common at this level as they are for undergrads, but your state may issue some grants to high-need graduate students.

Some colleges are able to provide free PhD enrollment in exchange for teaching and research assistance. Online schools don’t always provide that opportunity, but some might. If you can’t get a free ride, you might still qualify for institutional scholarships or fellowships.

Your employer may contribute to your tuition costs also. School districts often have programs to help their teachers or administrators get more education.

Is Education Administration a Good Career?

Yes, education administration is a good career for many professionals. In this career path, you can know that you’re making a difference for students, teachers, and communities. In addition, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that this is a line of work with the potential to command an above-average salary.

For instance, the median annual pay for administrators in a college, university, and professional school is $98,180. The median wage for K-12 principals in local public schools is $98,870 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Among both college administrators and school principals, the top earners make well over six figures each year.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Educational Administration?

A PhD is often a research-focused degree. After completing your doctoral studies, you may choose to launch a career in academia. Some PhD graduates conduct research about school and learning practices or teach education classes at the college level.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, teachers in college education departments earn a median of $63,910 annually. This degree may also be useful for working in school settings. Examples include being a junior high principal, a school district superintendent, or an elementary curriculum coordinator.

Some education professionals work as a college registrar or a university provost. The highest-paid postsecondary school administrators make over $190,770 each year (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

How Much Money Can You Make with a PhD in Education Administration?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most K-12 school principals earn between $61,480 and $153,520 each year. Schools run by local municipalities usually pay more than private schools.

Most instructional coordinators make between $38,390 and $101,090. In general, government roles pay the highest salaries. For postsecondary education administrators, the annual pay is often between $59,150 and $190,770. Junior colleges typically pay less than other colleges and university.

School superintendents and college presidents are considered chief executives. The annual salary for top executives generally ranges from $60,300 and $208,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Education Administration Online?

If you select an educational administration doctorate that doesn’t require a dissertation, you might be able to finish in about 3 years. Your timeframe will also depend on how many credits you need to earn and whether you enroll part-time or full-time.

Programs that involve a dissertation often take 3 to 5 years to complete with full-time study, depending on how quickly you do your dissertation research and writing. Some colleges set a maximum length of time you can be enrolled, often 8 or 9 years.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD in Educational Leadership vs. Educational Administration?

There are a lot of similarities between degrees in educational leadership and educational administration. Even still, you may want to consider the differences as you decide which program to select.

Some schools offer a doctorate that combines both administration and leadership into one program.

What’s the Difference Between an EdD vs. PhD in Educational Administration?

While you’re probably pretty familiar with the idea of a PhD, you may not be as familiar with an EdD in Educational Administration. Knowing the differences can help you decide which degree path is better for you.

Whether you want to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Education Administration will likely depend on your professional goals.

Is a PhD in Education Administration Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Education Administration is worth it for many students. Education is vital to a community’s success. With a doctorate degree in education administration, you could potentially play an essential role in developing strong schools and effective classrooms.

There’s always a need for trained school administrators. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 8% job growth for school principals and postsecondary education administrators over the next ten years. For instructional coordinators, a 10% growth rate is expected.

Getting Your PhD in Education Administration Online

Education is important in every community. Strong schools are good for students, families, teachers, and beyond. As a leader in education, you could help make a positive difference for others and encourage schools to be their best.

Some education professionals accomplish those goals as education researchers, college professors, or school administrators. A PhD in Education Administration could help you develop your expertise and qualifications for a range of academic and leadership roles.

Much like with an online masters in education administration program, for a doctoral program that fits your needs, you might consider online learning. Earning a degree from online education degree programs at an accredited school is a reputable way to get your Ph.D and prepare for a rewarding career in education leadership.

Why not start exploring accredited colleges and universities today?

30 Best Online PhD in Education Administration Programs [2024 Guide]

If you want to advance your career and make a difference in the field of education, earning a PhD in Education Administration may be the next step in your professional journey.

A doctoral degree in education administration can help you gain the skills to lead educational institutions, conduct research, and develop education policy. Educational leaders maintain academic standards, develop community partnerships, and stay current with educational trends and curricula.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

The field of education continues to grow, and a PhD could help you expand your professional qualifications and opportunities.

PhD in Education Administration Programs Online

Education administrators can make an impact in education in numerous ways, including as school and district leaders, postsecondary teachers, and educational researchers.

Most educational administration doctoral programs offer a choice of specializations, including:

• Higher education
• School leadership
• Administrative licensure

While coursework can vary by concentration, here are some key topics and skills that this type of program will likely cover:

• Organizational leadership
• Human resources
• Communication
• Strategic planning
• Effective management
• Applied research
• Educational policy
• Data analysis
• Curriculum development
• School finance
• History and philosophy of education
• Evaluating curriculum, instruction, and assessments

Many administrative careers require collaborating with others and problem-solving, which in turn requires strong communication and critical thinking skills.

Graduates of educational administration doctoral programs often pursue careers at the highest levels of education. Graduates interested in education at the K-12 level tend to pursue careers as principals and superintendents.

At the postsecondary level, career opportunities exist for teachers, deans, presidents, and other administrative roles. Since many PhD students are currently teachers and working professionals, much like with online educational administration masters programs, many online educational administration doctoral programs offer much-needed scheduling flexibility.

As challenges and advancements in our education system continue, we’ll continue to need qualified leaders to help tackle these challenges at every level of education.

Common Online PhD in Education Administration Concentrations

As you look into educational administration doctoral programs, you may find the opportunity to choose a concentration for your program that most aligns with your career goals and interests.

While concentration offerings will vary by program, some common specializations in education administration PhD programs are listed below:

• School Leadership. This concentration focuses on leadership, school improvement, community, and management skills for successful school administrators and educators.
• PreK-12 Education. This concentration focuses on Pre-K through secondary-level administration skills, including curriculum development, policymaking, and data analysis.
• Higher Education. Designed for postsecondary administrators, this concentration includes financial management, college curriculum, and diversity in higher education.
• Administrative Licensure. This concentration is designed for students interested in licensure for administrative positions like school superintendents and principals.
• Curriculum and Instruction. This concentration is designed for students interested in educational theory, research, and applications for improving classroom education.

Regardless of concentration, most PhD programs require the completion of a dissertation, with some specializations requiring candidates to complete an internship.

Education Administration Careers and Salaries

Graduates with a doctoral degree in education administration can advance their careers in education in a number of ways.

Individuals interested in school administration and leadership can pursue opportunities as superintendents of school systems or principals at the elementary, middle, or high school level. When deciding on a PhD program and concentration, it is helpful to consider your ultimate career goals and what type of program can help you reach them.

Based on information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics , below are some careers and salaries for professionals in the field of educational administration.

Many graduates pursue opportunities in postsecondary education, working in colleges and universities as postsecondary education administrators.

Some graduates can also find careers as college or university presidents, including managing general operations, budgets, finances, and faculty. Individuals interested in education in a non-traditional setting might pursue careers as training and development managers, providing professional development in various settings.

Many jobs in this field are growing, with positions like K-12 principals expected to grow by 5% over the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Education Administration PhD Curriculum & Courses

While courses will vary between educational administration doctoral programs, listed below are some types of courses you may take:

• History and Philosophy of Higher Education: Students in this course study the origins, characteristics, features, and philosophy of American postsecondary education.
• Development Through the Lifespan: This course examines developmental milestones and psychoeducational strategies for student development.
• Leader Behavior in Educational Administration: Students in this course will examine theories of leadership and behavior in educational administration.
• College Curriculum: This course introduces the fundamental issues and practices of college curriculum development, including the intersection of theory and practice.
• School Improvement: This course reviews research, including teacher and principal effectiveness and school improvement models.
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment: You’ll examine how to improve student achievement by aligning curriculum, instruction, and assessments.
• Legal Aspects of Educational Administration: This course focuses on developing education law and its application to current school problems.
• Public School Finance: Students are introduced to the fundamentals of public school finance, including revenue, expenditure, and fiscal controls.
• Supervision of Instruction: This course introduces you to practices for instructional improvement, including classroom observation and group facilitation.
• Social Foundations of Leadership: Students will examine the history, philosophy, and sociology of education in relation to the role of leadership in education today.

While many programs will offer core educational administration courses, other courses will vary based on your chosen concentration.

How to Choose an Online PhD in Educational Administration Program

As you look into choosing a doctoral program in educational leadership, there are various factors to consider.

Some factors to consider when choosing a program include:

• Accreditation. Choosing a program from a regionally accredited school could be beneficial and affect your education and employment opportunities.
• Concentrations and curriculum. Concentrations offered in a PhD program vary by school, so it’s strategic to consider programs that align with your goals and interests.
• Location. Some online degree programs in education still have a few in-person requirements, and location may also affect your program’s cost.
• Cost and funding. The overall cost will vary by program, including tuition, financial aid opportunities, online learning fees, and tuition breaks based on your location.
• Program format and schedule. Course schedules, enrollment options, and program formats vary, so it’s helpful to consider which format will work for your long-term scheduling needs.
• Online student services. Another factor to consider is the quality and accessibility of services for online students, including tutoring services, career counseling, and online resources.

Some factors may be more important to you than others, so you might rank their importance to you before comparing the different schools you are considering.

Admissions Requirements

While admissions requirements will vary by school, listed below are some common criteria for pursuing enrollment in doctoral programs in education administration:

• Masters degree, usually in an education-related field
• Letters of recommendation from professional sources
• Official transcripts from any postsecondary schools you have attended
• Resume showing your work experience and professional accomplishments

In addition, most programs will require you to submit an online application, which is typically different from the application process for undergraduate programs.

Educational Administration Doctorate Programs Accreditation

As you look into educational administration doctoral programs, it’s beneficial to know whether a school’s programs meet the necessary education requirements.

Regionally accredited schools are verified as meeting these educational standards, and regional accreditation is the most widely accepted type of accreditation. Employers look more favorably on doctoral degrees earned from regionally accredited institutions. This could potentially affect your employment and even state licensure opportunities. In addition, other schools may only accept credits from other regionally accredited schools.

To learn more about school accreditation, you can visit the website of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) .

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Earning your PhD is a commitment in time and cost. To help with the overall cost of your program, you can look into various opportunities for financial aid.

If you are currently working as a teacher or another education professional, your school or district may offer incentives to help cover the cost of your program. Some colleges and universities may also offer scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships to help with the cost of tuition. Students can also look into grants and scholarships through private institutions.

To learn more about opportunities that may be available to help with the cost of your program, such as government student loans, you can visit the Federal Student Aid website.

Education Administration Professional Organizations

Becoming a member of a professional organization can provide numerous benefits, including networking and professional learning opportunities.

• American Association of University Administrators (AAUA) : This nonprofit organization is for leaders and administrators across all types of colleges and universities in the US.
• National Education Association (NEA) : NEA is an organization of people—including educators, parents, and students—working to achieve excellence in public education.
• The School Superintendents Association (AASA) : This community of school system leaders is devoted to equality in public education and supporting school leaders.

Joining a professional education organization can allow you to learn from and connect with other professionals in your field.

What Is an Educational Administration PhD Degree?

An educational administration PhD degree is designed to prepare professionals to assume leadership roles in a variety of educational settings.

In addition to leadership, PhD students can develop the skills to conduct educational research and teach at the postsecondary level. Students in educational administration doctoral programs can often choose a concentration to focus their studies on a specialty area. Common specializations include higher education administration, school leadership, and administration licensure.

Graduates aim to affect change and enhance the world of education through research, policy making, and enhancements to curriculum and instruction in the classroom.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Education Administration?

Graduates with a doctoral degree in education administration are often prepared for various leadership roles in education and the unique challenges many of these roles face.

Individuals who want to work in postsecondary education as administrators can work in various departments, including student admissions and registrar’s offices. Many graduates seek employment as elementary, middle, or high school principals. They may manage operations, hire staff, and help implement school improvement plans.

There are also a number of research and curriculum development opportunities. These professionals can work for school systems, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private businesses.

How Much Money Can You Make with a PhD in Educational Administration?

Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, below are the median annual salaries of some careers that many graduates pursue.

• Chief executives — $189,520
• Training and development managers — $120,000
• Elementary, middle, or high school principals — $101,320
• Postsecondary education administrators — $99,940
• Postsecondary education teachers — $66,930

Many of these careers pay higher than average salaries. The amount you can earn with a doctoral degree in education administration will vary based on several factors, from where you live to your prior work experience.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Education Administration Online?

The time needed to complete a doctoral program in educational leadership will vary based on several factors, including your schedule and the program requirements.

Most PhD programs take 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the credit hours required in the program and how long it takes to complete your dissertation. If your program does not require a dissertation, you may be able to complete it in 3 years of full-time study. If you are enrolled part-time, your program will typically take longer to complete.

What Jobs Can I Get with a Doctorate in Educational Administration Degree?

Jobs you may qualify for with a doctoral degree in education administration will vary depending on where you live, the current job market, your specialization, and your prior work experience.

Many graduates find employment as training and development managers, using their education and leadership skills to ensure employees have the training to do their jobs. Graduates interested in curriculum development may find employment as instructional coordinators, monitoring school curriculums and educational standards at various grade levels.

Others find opportunities in postsecondary education as college deans, presidents, provosts, teachers, researchers, and other administration roles within colleges and universities. K-12 schools are also in need of qualified principals and administrators.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD vs. EdD in Education Administration?

While Doctor of Education (EdD) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in education administration may have similar curriculum and lead to similar career opportunities, here are some of their key distinctions.

• EdD in Education Administration: This practice-oriented degree is geared toward educational leadership, policy making, and education trends. Related careers can include superintendents, principals, deans, and university presidents.
• PhD in Education Administration: This research-oriented degree is geared toward research, data collection, and instruction analysis. Related careers can include postsecondary teachers, researchers, and administrators.

In addition, PhD programs usually have a more specialized and specific focus for students to choose for their research.

What’s the Difference Between an Educational Leadership vs. Educational Administration Doctorate Programs?

While these terms are occasionally used interchangeably, here are some fundamental differences in each program and the roles they prepare graduates for.

• PhD in Educational Leadership: This degree has a focus on leadership skills at a more global level. Topics may include education policy, effective school practices, and strategic planning.
• PhD in Educational Administration: This degree has a focus on management at the school or district level. Topics may include finance, data analysis, communication, and school improvement.

When deciding which program is best for you, it’s helpful to consider your career goals and look into a program’s curriculum to ensure it aligns with your ultimate goals.

Is a PhD in Educational Administration Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Educational Administration is worth it for many students. Many education professionals can advance their careers and earning potential after completing a PhD.

With various concentrations to choose from, you are able to choose the path that most aligns with your career goals and the impact you want to make in education. The field of education continues to need individuals with a combination of educational knowledge and management, research, data analysis, and communication skills.

Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for postsecondary education administrators is projected to grow 7% over the next ten years.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Education Administration Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Andrews University offers online doctorate programs in higher education administration. Depending on professional goals, the program may be completed as a Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Education. The curriculum requires the completion of 61 credit hours. With full-time attendance, the program may be completed in 5 years.

Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Aurora University offers a Doctor of Education program online. Concentrations include Instructional Leadership, Educational Administration for Principal Endorsement, and Educational Administration for Superintendent Endorsement. Classes are typically 8 to 16 weeks long. With full-time attendance, the program may be completed in 3 years, whereas with part-time attendance, it typically takes 6 years.

Aurora University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Ball State University offers an online program for an Ed.D. in Educational Administration and Supervision. Potential courses include Educational Decision Making, Ethnographic Research in Education, and Fiscal Management of Educational Agencies. The program requires the completion of 90 credits and is designed to satisfy superintendent license requirements for the state of Indiana.

Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Bradley University offers a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration and Leadership program online. The program is designed to help pursue careers in settings like universities, public administration, nonprofit organizations, corporate education, and educational foundations. The completion of at least 48 credit hours is required.

Bradley University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration. The curriculum typically teaches topics like supervision, evaluation, finance, diversity and equity, and ethical leadership. The program is designed to teach the skills needed to enter careers such as principal, director of instructional technology, professor, program director, curriculum developer, and director of student services.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Carson-Newman University offers an EdD in Administration Leadership program online. This program is designed to provide the skills needed to successfully lead in diverse educational settings. Classes typically run 8 weeks long each. On average, the 57 required credit hours may be completed in 3 years when attending full-time.

Carson-Newman University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Drexel University offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management program online. Concentrations include Creativity and Innovation, Educational Administration, Education Policy, Higher Education Leadership, and Learning Technologies. The program emphasizes evidence-based theory, action research, and collaborative discourse.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Fordham University offers an online program for an Ed.D in Educational Leadership Administration and Policy. Two immersion experiences on the Fordham Westchester campus in West Harrison, New York, aim to provide the chance to meet faculty in person. The curriculum aims to teach concepts in organizational change, transforming school communities, policy and advocacy, and leading teachers.

Fordham University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Georgia Southern University offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership program online. Specializations include PK to Grade 12 Administration or Higher Education Administration and Teacher Leadership. Potential classes include Field-Based Educational Leadership, Grand Development and Administration, and Emerging Pedagogical Approaches in Educational Leadership.

Georgia Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Illinois State University offers a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration and Foundations. The program is intended to be the next step after completing a master’s degree in a related discipline. The program’s hybrid format and part-time learning options are designed with working professionals in mind. The completion of at least 75 credits is required.

Illinois State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana State University offers a PhD in Educational Administration program. While classes meet primarily online, face-to-face classroom sessions may be required periodically. Courses aim to teach topics like statistics, research methods, educational law, governance, and contemporary issues in education. The curriculum spans 72 credit hours and admissions are typically offered for each fall term.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration program online. Concentrations include Assessment and Evaluation, Educational Leadership, and Student Affairs. Classes typically span 8 weeks each. On average, with full-time attendance, the program is completed in 3 years.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Northeastern University offers a program online for a Doctor of Education. Specializations include Higher Education Administration, Innovative Teaching, Transformative School Leadership, Workplace Learning, or Integrative Studies. Coursework is completed in an average of 3 to 4 years when attending full-time. The program admits twice yearly, for fall and winter terms.

Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Pennsylvania Western University offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Leadership program online. The program focuses on preparing for a career as a school district leader, such as a superintendent. Depending on past educational experiences, the program requires the completion of 39 to 57 total credit hours in order to graduate.

PennWest is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Sam Houston State University offers an Ed.D. in Developmental Education Administration program online, designed to help prepare educators to serve as leaders. Potential courses include Non-cognitive Student Development, Designing Learning Environments in Developmental Education, and Advanced Learning Theory. The completion of 60 credit hours is required.

Sam Houston State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Southern Nazarene University offers a Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership program. Classes are typically 6 weeks long each and meet asynchronously online or on-campus in the evenings. On average, the required coursework is completed in about 32 months when studying full-time. A choice of 6 start dates is commonly offered each year.

SNU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

St. Cloud State University offers an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration program online. Classes are typically 8 to 16 weeks long each. The program aims to teach the skills needed to pursue careers in administration, teaching, advising, athletics, enrollment management, residential life, and student life.

St. Cloud State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

St. Petersburg College offers an online program for a PhD in Higher Educational Administration in partnership with the University of South Florida. The curriculum consists of educational core, research methods, concentration requirements, electives, and dissertation courses. At least 59 credit hours must be completed.

St. Petersburg College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas A&M University–Commerce offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration program online. The program aims to teach skills needed for careers such as postsecondary teacher, K to 12 principal, education administrator, or instructional coordinator. On average, with full-time attendance, the 60 required credit hours are completed in about 4 years.

Texas A&M University-Commerce is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Tech University offers a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration. While classes meet primarily online, periodic on-campus sessions are required for orientation and summer sessions. Concentrations are available in Community College Administration or Higher Education College and University Administration. The curriculum consists of 60 credit hours.

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University at Buffalo offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration. Potential classes include Research Paradigms and Problems, Educational Policy Formation and Analysis, and Leading Curriculum and Instructional Improvement. At least 72 credit hours must be completed, and on average, the program takes 3 years of full-time study to finish.

The University at Buffalo is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Alabama offers an EdD in Higher Education Administration program online. Courses cover topics like leadership, academic and student affairs, administration, finance management, ethics, and teaching methods. The program requires the completion of 66 credits. New admissions are commonly granted for each fall term.

The University of Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Florida offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy. The program is intended for having already completed a master’s degree in a related field. The 90 credit curriculum aims to teach key aspects of leadership in education like human resource management, research, and governance. With part-time attendance, the program is typically finished in 4 years.

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Illinois–Urbana Champaign offers an online program for an Ed.D in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership. Concentrations include Diversity and Equity, Global Studies, Human Resource Development, International Education Administration, and Learning Design.The program requires the completion of 64 total credit hours.

The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Kansas offers a doctorate in education. Depending on professional goals, the program may be completed as a Doctor of Education or Doctor of Philosophy. Concentrations include K to 12 Education Administration, Higher Education Administration, and Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.

The University of Kansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Nebraska–Omaha offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration. The program is designed to prepare educators with existing administrative certification with additional skills to serve as practitioners and scholars in the field. The program requires the completion of 96 credits, and typically admits for fall, spring, and summer terms.

UNO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Southern Mississippi offers an online program for an EdD in Educational Administration for PK to grade 12 systems. A current teaching license and at least 3 years of teaching experience are usually required to be considered for admission. This program consists of 54 credit hours and typically spans 3 years of full-time study.

The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Sustainability program online. Classes tend to teach topics like systems thinking, ethical action, diversity and social justice, ecological thought, and transformative learning. The program requires the completion of 54 credits and typically takes about 3 years to complete.

UW-Stevens Point  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University offers an Ed.D in Educational Administration and Leadership program online but with 1 face-to-face residency on campus. Potential classes include Policy Development and Implementation, School Budgets and Allocating Resources, and School Organizational Dynamics. The program requires the completion of 79 credit hours.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

West Virginia University offers a hybrid program for a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration. The program aims to deepen key leadership skills like communication, research analysis, content development, and ethical decision-making. The completion of at least 87 credits while maintaining a 3.25 GPA or higher is required.

West Virginia University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Getting Your Doctorate in Education Administration Online

Earning your doctoral degree in education administration can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to advance your career in education.

Whether you are interested in improving education through research or seeking a career in administration at various levels, there are numerous ways to use your degree. Careers can be found at every level of public and private education institutions as well as in private businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

If you are looking to take your education career to the next level, you can look into online educational administration doctoral programs from accredited schools.

• Graduate School of Education
• Academic Programs
• UB Directory
• Department of Educational Leadership and Policy >
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• Doctoral Degrees >

Higher Education, PhD

VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE Thursday, Nov. 9 Event Details Register Now

Our doctoral program in higher education will prepare you for a variety of professional paths, including leadership positions in college and university administration, higher education faculty and policy research. Our program focuses on issues of concern to scholars and leaders in all types of higher education institutions. Given the variety of positions that you can pursue post-graduation, your advisor will work individually with you to craft a course of study and pursue experiences that will help you meet your individual goals.

On this page:

Why higher education at ub.

The features of our program include:

• application of theory and research methods to the study of higher education
• commitment to issues of equity, diversity, justice and inclusion, and the development of multculturally competent higher education professionals
• emphasis on interdisciplinary work that allows researchers to develop new insights for the scholarship of higher education
• flexible curriculum that allows you to concentrate on areas of special interest
• focus on the broad foundations and contexts, as well as the critical contemporary issues of higher education
• frequent and close collaboration with prominent faculty, knowledgeable professionals and community leaders
• strategic links with Western New York's 32 two- and four-year colleges and universities, numerous school districts and other educational settings that offer abundant research, practice and professional opportunities

Program Overview

Program coursework, required courses (15 credits).

ELP 667 Pro-Seminar ELP 670 Advanced Doctoral Seminar: Postsecondary Students ELP 679 Academic Affairs in the Contemporary University ELP 615 Critical Race Theory ELP 618 Sociology of Higher Education or ELP 517 Public Policy in Higher Education

Research Methods Courses (18-20 credits)

Two quantitative methods courses (e.g. CEP 522 and 523) Two qualitative methods courses (e.g. ELP 593 and 594) Research Design (CEP 581) One additional qualitative or quantitative methods course to inform dissertation

Cognate/Minor Area (9 credits)

You are required to develop a minor area in consultation with your faculty advisor.

Moving Toward Dissertation (9 credits)

ELP 601 Higher Education Doctoral Qualifying Exam ELP 699 Research Practicum (resulting in significant research product, such as journal article or paper/presentation at a national conference) ELP 599 Writing Dissertation Proposals or and additional course that scaffolds the research process, chosen in consultation with your academic advisor

Dissertation Research (minimum 9 credits)

ELP 702 Dissertation Research

You must continue to register for ELP 702 until your dissertation is complete. A minimum of 3 credits per semester is preferred. Consult with your advisor prior to registration.

Program Faculty Research Interests

Nathan Daun-Barnett

• College access intervention strategies
• University and community partnerships
• First generation college student success

Megan Holland

• Sociology of education
• Racial, class and gender inequality in high schools and higher education
• Postsecondary transition

Namsook Kim

• Inclusive education for student success
• International and immigrant student identity and experiences

Raechele Pope

• Multicultural competence in student affairs and higher education
• Creating equitable and racially just campus environments
• Social justice and intersectionality
• Combating racism and anti-blackness
• Student development and identity development

Margaret Sallee

• Work/life issues for faculty, staff, and students
• Gender and organizational culture
• Rethinking the student affairs profession
• Food insecurity

Stephen Santa-Ramirez

• Campus racial climate
• First-generation college students' sense of belonging
• Higher education policy and Undocu/DACAmented collegians 
• Latinx collegians’ educational experiences

Graduate Assistantships

Assistantships are available in a variety of areas that change from year to year. Compensation for positions ranges from hourly pay only to a stipend to tuition remission plus a stipend. Generally, assistantships require 20 hours of work per week. The application process for assistantships is separate from the program admission process. Assistantship opportunities are posted for the following academic year in mid-January, from offices on campus such as Campus Living, Career Services, Student Engagement, Intercultural and Diversity Center, among others. While assistantships are limited, new opportunities become available throughout summer and into the fall semester.

If you are accepted into the higher education (doctoral) or the higher education administration/student affairs administration (master’s) programs, check back here for updates on available positions and how to apply. Interviews for assistantships typically take place during the higher education program’s Open House and Assistantship Day (end of February/beginning of March). In addition to interviewing positions, you will have an opportunity to learn more about UB and the higher education program, network with current and accepted students, and meet program faculty. For those unable to come to campus for Assistantship Day, offices will conduct phone interviews, although we highly encourage you to attend in person, if possible.

Application Requirements

In an effort to make the application process more equitable, the GRE/MAT is no longer required for admissions consideration. If you still plan to take the GRE/MAT exam, you can send your scores through the testing agency, and they will automatically be added to your application; however, they are not required for admission consideration to this program.

You must have a bachelor's and master's degree.

Submit your completed online application, which includes:

• Application fee:  A $50 non-refundable application fee, submitted electronically through UB's ePayment system.
• Contact information for three individuals (2 academic, 1 professional)  who will each be asked to provide an electronic recommendation letter. If you have been out of school for a significant period of time, you should find recommenders who can best speak to your abilities to succeed in a PhD program.
• Unofficial transcripts  from all colleges attended. (UB transcripts are automatically submitted for current UB students and alumni.)
• Sample of academic writing:  A sample of your academic writing at least 10 pages long.
• Statement of research interests and professional goals:  This statement should address your academic and research background, your reasons for applying to this program, and your professional goals. Please be specific in explaining how the curriculum and faculty expertise of this program fit your educational and career objectives. Be sure to include the specific faculty you would like to work with and why. We consider three to four double-spaced pages as an appropriate length. Finding the right doctoral program requires that doctoral candidates specify and describe their research interests so they can evaluate whether there is a good fit between what they want to study and faculty research expertise. Start by reviewing our faculty directory and faculty web pages and once you are familiar with faculty research areas, read some of the faculty publications that you find most interesting. That will help you determine if there is a good fit between your scholarly interests and what our faculty members are currently researching. Everyone knows that grade point average, letters of reference and relevant higher education experience are important in the decision-making process; however, alignment with faculty research interests and the academic program can often be a determining factor in admission decisions.

Faculty Interview:  After applications are submitted and reviewed, you may be offered an interview with the faculty.

Former/Maiden Name:  Please provide us with your former/maiden name if you have one. When requesting transcripts, please ask the sending institution to indicate your current name and former/maiden name.

Admission Decision: The admission decision will be communicated to you as soon as review is complete. The decision is based on a number of factors and is the result of a thorough and deliberate process. All decisions are final and cannot be appealed.

In order to qualify for the in-state residency tuition rate, you are required to provide residency documentation indicating you have lived in New York State (NYS) 12 months prior to your semester start date.

If accepted, you will need to upload 3 documents to qualify for the in-state tuition rate. See Required Documents for Residency Application  for more information. 

• Official original proof of your degree
• A copy of your passport biographical page
• TOEFL minimum score is a 250 for a computer based test, 600 for a paper based test and 79 for the Internet based test
• IELTS Academic Test minimum score is 6.5 overall
• PTE minimum score is 55 overall
• DET minimum score is 120 overall
• Financial documentation  — International graduate applicants must document their ability to pay for all costs incurred while studying in the U.S.
• An official bank statement

All financial forms and supporting documentation with required signatures must be uploaded with your application, and must be dated within one year of your intended enrollment date.

Program Faculty

Nathan J. Daun-Barnett

Associate Professor Educational Leadership And Policy

468 Baldy Hall North Campus Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: 716-645-1096

Email: [email protected]

Megan M. Iantosca

477 Baldy Hall North Campus Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: 716-645-1095

Email: [email protected]

Raechele L. Pope

Professor Educational Leadership And Policy

Professor Dean's Office

482 Baldy Hall North Campus Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: 716-645-1098

Email: [email protected]

473 Baldy Hall North Campus Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: 716-645-1091

Email: [email protected]

Stephen Santa-Ramirez, PhD

Assistant Professor Educational Leadership And Policy

Email: [email protected]

Paris D. Wicker

475 Baldy Hall North Campus Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: 716-645-1214

Email: [email protected]

We have a collection of frequently asked questions that may help you. If your questions are still unanswered, we are glad to help! Contact our admission office .

Questions About the Admission Process?

Office of Graduate Admission

Graduate School of Education 366 Baldy Hall, North Campus 716-645-2110 [email protected]

Graduate Education

A message from associate dean jason abrevaya.

Associate Dean  Jason Abrevaya

Across 34 programs and areas of study, graduate students pursuing Ph.D. and M.A. degrees in the College of Liberal Arts enjoy high-quality instruction, cutting-edge research training, and professional socialization that set up a diverse array of career pathways. Working alongside expert faculty, our graduate students enjoy extensive opportunities to develop as scholars who can make significant contributions to the state of knowledge about a range of important and timely topics. The Graduate Education Office provides support to graduate students on their journeys, including but not limited to distributing fellowships funds and travel awards, managing policies governing academic and employment activities, organizing career services, acting as a liaison between students and the Graduate School, and supporting applications for external funding for research and study.

As students, researchers, teaching assistants, assistant instructors, and research assistants, graduate students play a crucial role in the mission of the College of Liberal Arts, and the Graduate Education Office is here to serve them.

Support for Student External Fellowships and Grants

Liberal Arts Research Support Office Tuition Grants [new program; info forthcoming]

Internal Fellowship Opportunities

Graduate School Fellowship Opportunities

Professional Development Travel/Fieldwork Grants (Endowment supported) Graduate Student Group-Organized Conference Funding

Graduate Teaching

Center for Teaching and Learning Teaching Resources for Graduate Teaching Assistants Teaching Preparation Series Liberal Arts Instructional Technology Services (LAITS)

Career Services

Liberal Arts Career Services Texas Career Engagement

Student Services and Supports

• University Health Services •  Services for Students with Disabilities •  Title IX •  University Counseling and Mental Health Center • Center for Access and Restorative Engagement •  Texas One Stop •  UT Behavior Concerns •  UT Outpost Food Pantry and Career Closet •  UT Student Emergency Services •  UT Student Emergency Fund •  COLA Parental Accomodation Statement •  Liberal Arts Student Fund (info coming soon)

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Prospective Students

The College of Liberal Arts strives to matriculate outstanding doctoral students and provide them with the training, experience, and support necessary for successful completion of their respective degrees and placement in academic and other training-related jobs upon graduation.

The College awards graduate degrees through 25 departments, centers, institutes, and programs. As of Fall 2015, 1,301 graduate students are enrolled in the College, most of them pursuing PhDs. The College aims for a median time to degree across programs of 6.5 years to the PhD and two years to the MA. Information about specific degree requirements and estimated timelines to reach the milestones of each PhD program is available here . Average costs of attendance can be found here .

How to Apply

Application for graduate studies at the University of Texas at Austin is a two-step process that includes applying to the  Graduate School  and to individual Departments and other academic units .

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Educational Administration PhD

Graduate school of education, program description.

Our doctoral program in educational administration will prepare you with the theoretical and methodological skills for careers in university research, governmental and non-governmental policy analysis, educational and public agency leadership and community-centered non-profit work. our program is for researchers interested in connections between educational policy and leadership and increasing access to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts within public educational spaces. It also is for researchers who aim to find new ways to integrate theory into practice and utilize interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches to make a difference on critical problems affecting society today.

Renad Aref 366 Baldy Hall Buffalo, NY 14260 Email: [email protected] Phone: 716-645-2110

Instruction Method

• Hybrid   (some of the degree requirements can be fulfilled online)

Full/Part Time Options

Credits required, time-to-degree.

• 4 to 5+ Years

Application Fee

This program is officially registered with the New York State Education Department (SED).

Online programs/courses may require students to come to campus on occasion. Time-to-degree and number of credit hours may vary based on full/part time status, degree, track and/or certification option chosen. Time-to-degree is based on calendar year(s). Contact the department for details.

Lomonosov Moscow State University

Preparatory course (pre-university programme).

• Duration of study: March 2024 – July 2025.
• Holidays: July – August 2024.
• Start date: 1 March – 30 March 2024.
• Exams: June 2025.
• Tuition: $8900.
• The level of Russian: Beginner.
• Duration of study: September/October 2024 – July 2025.
• Start date: September – October.
• Tuition: $7000.
• The level of Russian: All levels.

• 1 BUSINESS SCHOOL
• 2 FACULTY OF BIOENGINEERING AND BIOINFORMATICS
• 3 FACULTY OF BIOLOGY
• 4 FACULTY OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
• 5 FACULTY OF CHEMISTRY
• 6 FACULTY OF COMPUTATIONAL MATHEMATICS AND CYBERNETICS
• 7 FACULTY OF EDUCATIONAL STUDIES
• 8 FACULTY OF ECONOMICS
• 9 FACULTY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES
• 10 FACULTY OF FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS
• 11 FACULTY OF FUNDAMENTAL MEDICINE
• 12 FACULTY OF FUNDAMENTAL PHYSICAL-CHEMICAL ENGENEERING
• 13 FACULTY OF GEOLOGY
• 14 FACULTY OF GEOGRAPHY
• 15 FACULTY OF HISTORY
• 16 FACULTY OF JOURNALISM
• 17 FACULTY OF LAW
• 18 FACULTY OF MATERIALS SCIENCE
• 19 FACULTY OF MECHANICS AND MATHEMATICS
• 20 FACULTY OF PHYSICS
• 21 FACULTY OF PHILOLOGY
• 22 FACULTY OF PHILOSOPHY
• 23 FACULTY OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
• 24 FACULTY OF SOCIOLOGY
• 25 FACULTY OF WORLD POLITICS
• 26 GRADUATE SCHOOL OF INNOVATIVE BUSINESS
• 27 GRADUATE SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT AND INNOVATION
• 28 GRADUATE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC ADMINIASTRATION
• 29 HIGHER SCHOOL OF MODERN SOCIAL SCIENCES
• 30 HIGHER SCHOOL OF POLICY IN CULTURE AND ADMINISTRATION IN HUMANITIES
• 31 HIGHER SCHOOL OF STATE AUDIT
• 32 HIGHER SCHOOL OF TRANSLATION/INTERPRETING
• 33 HIGHER SCHOOL OF TELEVISION STUDIES
• 34 INSTITUTE OF ASIAN AND AFRICAN STUDIES
• 35 MOSCOW SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS
• 36 SOIL SCIENCE FACULTY
• Admission procedure

Texas A&M, The Association Of Former Students Announce 2024 Distinguished Achievement Honorees

Texas A&M University and The Association of Former Students have selected 25 outstanding faculty and staff to be honored with the 2024 university-level Distinguished Achievement Awards. Since 1955, the Distinguished Achievement Awards have been granted to those who exhibit the highest standards of excellence at Texas A&M.

The award honors Texas A&M faculty and staff members in teaching, research, individual student engagement, graduate mentoring, administration, staff and extension/outreach/continuing education/professional development.

The selection process for this award is rigorous, with the recipients chosen by a campus-wide committee composed of faculty, staff, students and former students. The award is a testimony to the esteem and high regard in which colleagues hold the recipients.

In recognition of their achievements, each recipient will receive a monetary gift, an engraved watch and a commemorative certificate. Recipients will be honored on April 26 at the Faculty Affairs Spring Awards Ceremony in the Student Recreation Center, Room 2229.

The 2024 awardees are:

Administration.

• Robert Ahdieh, School of Law
• Thomas McKnight, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences

Extension, Outreach, Continuing Education, and Professional Development

• William Byrnes, School of Law

Graduate Mentoring

• David Claridge, J. Mike Walker ’66 Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering
• David Russell, Department of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences

Individual Student Engagement

• Jennifer Rhinesmith-Carranza, Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• Aakash Tyagi, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, College of Engineering
• Haitham Abu-Rub, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University at Qatar
• Rodolfo Nayga, Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• Eric Peterson, J. Mike Walker ’66 Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering
• Lin Shao, Department of Nuclear Engineering, College of Engineering
• Farida Sohrabji, Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine
• David Threadgill, Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• Jennifer Ford, Division of Student Affairs
• Gerald Smith, Division of Student Affairs
• Barry Boyd, Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• Emily Cantrell, Department of Teaching, Learning and Culture, School of Education and Human Development
• Daniel Conway, Department of Philosophy and Humanities, College of Arts and Sciences
• Michelle Diaz, James Benjamin Department of Accounting, Mays Business School
• Debra Ellis, Department of Construction Science, School of Architecture
• Michelle Kwok, Department of Teaching, Learning and Culture, School of Education and Human Development
• Catharina Laporte, Department of Anthropology, College of Arts and Sciences
• Verity McInnis, Department of History, College of Arts and Sciences
• Jayne Reuben, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry
• Christina Wiederwohl, Department of Oceanography, College of Arts and Sciences

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USask education student shares plans to improve Indigenous education administration

“Your education is your ceremony,” says College of Education graduate student Alexander Tawpisim.

Elisabeth Bauman Mar 27, 2024

Alexander Tawpisim (He/Him) is a member of the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation located north of Saskatoon. He received his University of Saskatchewan (USask) undergraduate degree from the College of Education in 2011. He has gone on to a career in teaching and has recently moved into school administration in his home community.

Tawpisim is a proud husband and father of two children. He is pursuing his Master of Education in Educational Administration (Indigenous Education Leadership Cohort) in the College of Education. Tawpisim received an award for academic excellence at this year’s Indigenous Student Achievement Awards (ISAA), which took place on March 6. Indigenous students from across the university were honoured at a ceremony to recognize their academic excellence, leadership, research endeavours, or community engagement. The ISAA is part of Indigenous Achievement Week (IAW) which celebrates the successes and contributions of Métis, First Nations and Inuit students, staff and faculty.

We asked Tawpisim a few questions about his time at USask and what motivates him.

Why did you choose the College of Education?

I made the decision to enter the college of education so I could make a difference in education to First Nations students. I wanted to be a bridge to their success. Indian Teacher Education Program (ITEP) provided me with the tools I needed to become successful in life. I wanted to be there and cheer on Indigenous students as I watch them become successful.

Is there someone in your life who inspired you to get where you are today? 

There is no one particular person who inspired me to be where I am. I had people in my life who believed in me when I needed it. It wasn’t always the same person and it wasn’t always at the same time. Creator put the people in my path when he knew I needed them.

What are your goals for the future? 

Well, I am in a pretty busy season so it’s hard to see the other side! I want to finish this IELC master’s program. From there I want to help education systems in First Nations communities. I also want to help improve traditional educational systems in urban centres. I would like to be a part of designing new education buildings and systems. I desire to work with communities and leaders in helping them implement their vision of education in their communities.

If you were to give a first-year undergraduate student advice about attending post-secondary school, what would you tell them?

Go to class and ask questions. Make connections to your own lived experience. See how colonization has shaped your life and the communities we live in. Your story is powerful and needs to be shared to encourage others. Your education will open doors for others. Your education is your ceremony. You will get what you need if you trust the process.

You are receiving the award for academic achievement; What does success in academics mean to you? What are you most proud of academically?

Elders teach that once you share something it is no longer yours. It is for everyone to grow. I am thankful for the many academics who have come before me and shared what they have learned. For me success in academics is taking the gifts others have shared and using them to come to your own realizations. It is about elevating consciousness for your people and your communities. Always cite those who have helped you in gaining understanding. It is your thank you card to those who have come before you.

It’s hard to determine what I am most proud of academically because that is a moving target. First, it was graduating high school. Then it was finishing my undergrad. Then it was being accepted into the IELC. Now it is this moment. Being honoured for academic achievement at the graduate level is something I could not have dreamed growing up. The next moment is still to come.

How has your family life affected the way you think about the educational needs of Indigenous communities?

My lived experience as an intergenerational survivor of residential schools has equipped me to be attuned to the needs of my own community. My experience in ITEP provided me with an understanding of the impacts of colonization and residential school had on my life. That understanding enabled me to forgive. I now try to help by promoting Trauma Informed Practices in what I do. We incorporate land-based learning in our school operations and focus highly on improving literacy. We need to provide the balance of honouring our traditional ways and equipping our youth with “the cunning of the white man” as our Treaty signers foresaw.

What do you find exciting in the Educational Leadership Cohort, and how is it affecting your life?

The thing I find most exciting about the cohort is the relationships we are building. We continually grow and empower each other by sharing our own experiences and supporting each other. We are learning so much about organization, leadership and governance, administrative roles, community development, and trauma-informed practices that we are actively improving our own communities by being able to apply the theory we learn to practice in our workplaces. This course has helped bridge for me the idea of doing a good job in your career to creating a system that will benefit your communities and people. I am sure it will affect my life in many more great ways in the years to come!

Is there anything else you’d like to share? 

I guess the thing I would like to share with anyone who is still reading is this: Take care of your mental health, set healthy boundaries with toxic loved ones, allow the good in (accept the compliments). You are not who you were in the past. You are the sum of all your decisions, so choose wisely. Bring two solutions for every problem you bring up, otherwise you’re just complaining! I love my son Karter! I love my daughter Keisha! I love my supporting wife, Kristen!

Together, we will work towards Truth and Reconciliation. We invite you to join by  supporting Indigenous achievement  at USask.

Teaching in a country at war

USask College of Education marks UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Edwards student recognized for resiliency during USask Indigenous Achievement Week

USask celebrates students and community in Indigenous Achievement Week

Graduate School names Ginny Wagg as director of administration for the D.C. area

26 Mar 2024

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The Graduate School has named Ginny Wagg as its new director of administration for its greater Washington, D.C., metro area operations.

Wagg will work closely with Graduate School Dean Aimée Surprenant and Interim Associate Dean Barbara Hoopes to guide the school’s transition from its Falls Church location to the new Innovation Campus Building 1 in Alexandria. She also will oversee management of the services, budget, and communications for the Graduate School in the region and provide support and counsel to the D.C. area associate dean.

“I am excited to take on this new role with the Graduate School and thrilled to be able to continue working with the graduate student community in the D.C. area. The future of graduate education in this region is bright, and I look forward to guiding the Graduate School’s presence here,” Wagg said.

Wagg previously was assistant director of MBA programs for Pamplin College of Business. She was one of the key leaders in the creation of the university’s Online MBA program that launched in 2021. She has extensive knowledge of and experience with Virginia Tech’s systems and processes at the graduate school and at the university level and is familiar with the needs of administrators, faculty, staff, and students in the D.C. area.

Prior to her leadership work with Virginia Tech, Wagg served as undergraduate recruitment manager at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Business. She began her career in higher education as associate director of admissions for Queens University in Charlotte, N.C. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Queens University and a master’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. 

"We are delighted to welcome Ginny to the graduate school team," said Surprenant. "She is stepping into this important role at a time when many exciting changes are coming to Virginia Tech in the greater Washington, D.C., area. I am confident that Ginny will help steer us through this important transition as we work toward building outstanding graduate programs in the region and beyond."

Cathy Grimes

540-231-8795

• Falls Church, Va.
• Graduate Education
• Graduate Students
• Innovation Campus

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