Apr 19, 2024  
2018-2019 
    
2018-2019 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Educational Leadership PhD


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Delivery: This program is offered in an interactive online format. 

Program Description


The doctoral programs in Educational Leadership prepare participants for professional careers in education as superintendents or elementary and secondary-school administrators. These programs also prepare leaders for service in many types of agencies and organizations. Both the Doctor of Education (EdD) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs require a minimum of 90 credits and the submission of a research based article to a peer-reviewed publication documented by the decision letter from the editor of the peer review journal. However, the PhD degree is more research-oriented and requires more courses in advanced research methodologies. Those specifically served by this degree are the following:

  • Teachers with master’s degrees interested in transitioning into educational administration and securing an additional degree while completing their NAD administration certification and endorsement.
  • Principals of K–8, K–10, K–12, and 9–12 schools
  • Supervisors of instruction
  • Superintendents of schools
  • Those interested in teaching Educational Administration at the higher education level

Candidates must complete LEAD 630 - Introduction to Leadership  as an introduction to the philosophy of leadership and review of the standards that will guide their educational plan. The curriculum consists of a minimum of 90 semester credits beyond the baccalaureate degree and requires the completion of a portfolio and a dissertation. Many courses are offered as variable credits; therefore, candidates should consider their credit needs when planning their course work and registering for courses. The portfolio serves as a component of the doctoral comprehensive examination. Both doctorates require the successful completion of a dissertation. Beginning the semester after registering for LEAD 880 - Dissertation Proposal Development , candidates must register for at least 1 dissertation credit during each semester until their dissertation is successfully defended.

This program is offered online. The online courses follow fixed enrollment with semester start and end dates.  Participants interact with each other and with instructor throughout all courses.  The online program requires summer on-campus attendance in the first year.  Students are also encouraged to come to campus for graduation.

Option 1: Total Credits - 60


To be eligible for the 60-credit Educational Leadership PhD program, you must already have an MA in Educational Leadership or an equivalendt degree from an accredited university.  To give you an idea of what would qualify as an equivalent degree, see the Educational Leadership MA  .

Option 2: Total Credits - 90


This option is for students that do not have a masters degree in Educational Leadership. 

Program Electives


As needed, in consultation with your advisor.

Advanced Standing


Advanced Standing

Advanced standing for doctoral degrees from the Department of Leadership may be granted when those accepted into a program have post-masters and/or doctoral education and leadership experiences that allow them to fulfill a portion of the required coursework and/or competency/standard/outcome requirements. Previous doctoral degree(s), post-masters’ academic work, especially research courses, documented competencies, and leadership skills and knowledge advantage these applicants in fulfilling program objectives that may be used to reduce the MA+60 credit requirements. Credit reductions are granted on a case-by-case basis.

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