phd in education texas

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The doctor of education, admission to candidacy.

The Doctor of Education (EdD) is a professional degree that emphasizes preparation for the highest levels of educational practice. It provides academic training and educational service experiences for individuals who will have leading roles in educational practice and who will help define the scope and functions of education in society. Programs are oriented toward the application of theory and research to issues of education and human development and to the development of skilled practitioners to fill a variety of roles in institutions that educate children, youth, and adults.

Students in educational leadership and policy complete a treatise; those pursuing the EdD in other fields complete a dissertation. Most policies affecting the EdD are similar to those described for the  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) , such as the requirement for a minimum of 30 semester hours of advanced coursework, including dissertation or treatise hours. Additional policies on admission to the program and to candidacy are given below.

In addition to the requirements for admission to the Graduate School, each department may require evidence of successful performance in an educational setting and evidence of interpersonal problem-solving skills and other skills useful for predicting success in professional educational roles. The applicant must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited United States institution or the equivalent.

In addition to the requirements listed for the PhD degree, the curriculum must have a clear and predominantly applied focus. The student’s program normally entails an internship in an operational setting that is distinct from previous or concurrent work experience.

In addition to the requirements listed for the PhD degree in regard to the Dissertation Committee, at least one member of the committee must be from outside the major program or from the field of practice represented by the dissertation.

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• College of Education
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Doctoral Programs

Ph.d. in teaching, learning, and culture.

The Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Culture will prepare professionals who will conduct research that will enhance the national debate about aims in education, standards and equity, especially for the U.S./Mexico border region and the State of Texas.

The program seeks to develop knowledge in important areas relevant to urban education, the southwest border region, Texas and beyond. Graduates will be knowledgeable about implications of shifting demographics and cross-cultural teaching and learning. They also will be prepared to:

• Conduct research using appropriate methodologies to study curriculum and instruction;
• Design innovative instructional strategies to promote the cognitive and social development of all learners;
• Expand on the existing pedagogical knowledge base about learners from linguistically and culturally diverse backgrounds;
• Utilize effective and innovative educational research and evaluation designs and processes;
• Provide significant contributions to the research literature on educational reform.

Doctor Of Education (ED.D.)

The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree program in Educational Leadership and Administration offers students opportunities to develop the added knowledge, skills and experiences necessary for leadership roles in educational settings. Typically, graduates of the doctoral program prepare for positions in three general career areas:

• central office and school site leadership,
• leadership in higher education and other educational settings, and
• leadership in educational policy and evaluation.

Unique program features include emphasis on educational leadership issues along the U.S.-Mexico border with opportunities for research in this cultural and linguistically diverse region, and a cohort program that provides a sense of community and mutual support during students’ doctoral experiences.

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The University of Texas at El Paso College of Education Education Building, Room 414 500 W University El Paso, Texas 79902

E: [email protected] P: (915) 747-5572 F: (915) 747-5755

Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

Ph.d. in educational leadership (pk-12 or higher education focus)  .

The Ph.D. in Educational Studies: Educational Leadership is a research intensive 66-hour degree designed to equip graduates to engage in high-quality original scholarship. Degree recipients will have the knowledge and skills to assume positions as tenure-track college faculty, tasked with engaging in research and with teaching graduate education courses, as experts with policy organizations responsible for producing or overseeing education-related research, and as high-level leaders in K-12 or higher education-related organizations with oversight and/or responsibility for research-oriented functions.

Within the degree, students may opt to focus some course selections around a concentration in PK-12 leadership or leadership in higher education contexts. Students may also opt to work with an advisor to craft a program with a PK-20 perspective.

For admission into the program, an applicant must hold a master’s degree in educational leadership or a related field; those applicants seeking professional certification as Principal or Superintendent in conjunction with the degree must meet eligibility requirements in the state of Texas, and may be required to take additional coursework in order to meet both programmatic and State of Texas certification requirements.

Each applicant must present:

• Official transcript(s) exhibiting a strong academic record (e-transcripts may be sent to [email protected] )
• Current resume reflecting all professional experience
• Copy of valid educator certificate and official service record
• Applicants seeking certification as a superintendent must hold the principal certificate or a valid waiver of the certificate from T.E.A. at time of application
• Three letters of recommendation, at least two of which are from persons known in a professional or supervisory relationship
• Personal Statement - In 500-750 words, explain why you wish to seek the doctorate and/or superintendent certificate. Explain how you see the degree and/or certification as fitting with personal and professional goals, and what you view as your strengths and challenges as you embark on this new journey
• Equity Statement - In 500-750 words, discuss the role you think efforts related to diversity, equity, and inclusion do or should play within PK-12 school contexts, what the district leader's role is/should be in those efforts, and what informs your perspective on these issues.
• Live or video interview
• Online Criminal Background Check required for PK-12 emphasis applicants

As of March 15, 2017, the Texas Education Agency Board requires the implementation of an Accountability System for Educator Preparation Programs (ASEP) technology fee, as required by 19 TAC 229.9(7). This fee is required for each candidate seeking certification; the candidate must pay a one-time admission fee of $35. The fee will appear on your TCU student account.

Program requirements can be found in the TCU Graduate Catalog .

December 1 - Priority deadline February 1 - Final deadline

College of Education

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Doctoral Programs

Curriculum and Instruction PhD

  The Doctor of Philosophy program in Curriculum and Instruction is a research-intensive degree intended for individuals who plan careers as scholars, researchers and educators in higher education or who will hold other research-oriented leadership positions.

Dev Disabilities & Autism

  Graduates provide effective leadership in autism programming and policy development and conduct intervention-based research that will bridge existing research-to-practice gaps and improve outcomes for students with autism spectrum disorders and their families.

Educational Leadership EdD

  The Doctor of Education degree is designed for students who plan careers as school or district-level leaders.

Educational Leadership PhD

  The Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership is a research-oriented program.

Gifted and Talented

  This concentration prepares students for careers including the professoriate, gifted and talented district program coordinator, curriculum specialist and state education agency director.

Human Dev. & Family Sci

  Focuses on individual growth and development across the lifespan as well as interpersonal interactions within the family context

Human Perf & Mvmt Science

  The Human Performance and Movement Science (HPMS) program prepares PhD graduates to conduct research and education within human performance and disease prevention through movement science. The HPMS program will provide opportunity to address health disparities in minoritized populations through physical activity and lifestyle change.

Learning Dis & Behv Disorders

  Broaden your understanding of behavior and its impact on learning, ecological assessment, issues and emerging trends, research and use of evidence-based practice, issues and practices in personnel development, and effective programs and program evaluation.

Learning Sciences

  Earn a Doctorate of Philosophy in Philosophy.

Research, Measurement & Stats.

  Gather, analyze, and judge empirical information to help inform research and policy, and will be prepared to emphasize research and data analysis in a range of settings, including universities, public and private schools, corporations and governmental roles.

Counselor Education

  The PhD program in counseling is designed to stimulate student inquiry and to develop advanced knowledge and counseling skills.

Higher Education EdD

  Acquire knowledge about research and theory as well as conduct and evaluate research applicable to higher education.

Higher Education PhD

Online Ed.D. in:

Curriculum & instruction, online ed.d. in curriculum and instruction.

The Online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) prepares leaders in P–12 public and private education to be accomplished in providing direction in curriculum, instruction and instructional assessment. The program requires a minimum of 64 semester credit hours beyond the master’s degree, all of which will be presented through a web-based delivery system in a cohort structure. Estimated completion time is four years.

Cohort Deadline: August 1, 2024

Students will be admitted to this program only as members of a cohort. Our next cohort is scheduled to start in Spring 2025. Applications will be accepted April 1, 2024 – August 1, 2024.

Applications for the Spring 2025 cohort are due August 1, 2024.

JOIN US FOR A LIVE WEBINAR TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ED.D. PROGRAM:

Wednesday, May 29th 4:00PM – 4:45pm CDT

Join us via Zoom: tx.ag/EDDinfo

Acceptance Criteria

• Minimum of five years of successful teaching experience
• Earned master’s degree
• Submitted GRE scores
• Submit information for at least three professional or academic references (no friends or colleagues) to the electronic reference system attesting to the applicant’s teaching expertise, interpersonal skills and leadership skills.
• Writing samples addressing various educational and instructional issues

Program Design

Major themes presented in CEHD’s mission statement and vision form the three intertwined goals of the Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction: Leadership, Discovery and Application of Knowledge. We offer a terminal professional degree for educational leaders in curriculum and instruction contexts serving teachers and administrators in K–12 public and private education. We place emphasis on developing educational leadership knowledge and skills in curriculum and instruction. The program aims to extend mid-career individuals’ prior experiences in teaching and learning environments to prepare them for new roles of leadership in one or more of the following domains of practice:

• Leadership roles in school change and improvement initiatives.
• School or district curriculum leadership.
• Professional development of colleagues.
• Parent and community involvement.
• Preservice teacher preparation and supervision within school contexts.
• Contributions to the teaching profession through service to professional organizations, school districts and state government steering committees.
• Successful experiences with external funding efforts.
• Organizational management.

Ed.D. Prospectus

Download the Ed.D. Prospectus

Graduate Student Handbook

Download the TLAC Graduate Student Handbook

Key Program Elements

• Online curriculum
• Supportive thematic group membership
• Measures of continuing success in the program
• Record of study

Program Details

Degrees Offered: Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction Program Delivery: Cohort-Model, Online Program Hours: 64

For a better understanding of your total cost of attendance (COA), please visit our cost and tuition rates webpage ( https://aggie.tamu.edu/billing-and-payments/cost-and-tuition-rates ). This webpage will provide you with an opportunity to review estimated COA information for undergraduate, graduate and professional students, as well as other resources such as the tuition calculator and billing and fee explanations.

Contact Advisors

Sydney Zentell

Academic Advisor IV

View Directory Profile

Program Coordinator

Radhika Viruru

Clinical Professor

Contact Faculty

George Slattery

Zohreh Eslami

Trina Davis

Associate Professor

Shaun Hutchins

Clinical Associate Professor

Sharon Matthews

Associate DH for Undergraduate Studies

Robin Rackley

Paul Hernandez

Karen Rambo-Hernandez

John Williams III

Assistant Professor

Frequently Asked Questions

I still have further questions—who can i contact to help me answer those.

Please feel free to contact our Graduate Advising Office with any questions you may have. Our office information can be found at https://tlac.tamu.edu/student-services/graduate-advising .

How soon can I apply?

Prospective students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible!

I live out of state. Do you accept out-of-state applicants?

Yes, we accept in-state and out-of-state applicants.

Is there any opportunity for financial assistance?

Yes, there are opportunities for financial assistance through the Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid at https://financialaid.tamu.edu .

What are the typical program costs?

You can base the cost of attendance on 64 graduate credit hours (for doctoral students).

Is the Online Ed.D Program at Texas A&M University for me?

Do you see yourself as an expert mid-career educator with significant teaching experience who is highly respected by your peers and who aspires to have a leadership role in P-16 public and private education? This program is intended to place an emphasis on acquiring knowledge and skills necessary to (a) lead school-based programs, (b) conduct content analyses of school curricula, (c) design protocols for conducting needs assessments associated with professional development programming, (d) conduct lesson analyses for enhanced instructional effectiveness that will promote increased student performance, and (e) design and implement program evaluations.

Is there a general program time line that I can review?

Yes, time line for completion of the Online Ed.D. can be found within the Prospectus.

How self-paced is the Ed.D. program?

The program is not a self-paced program. Due to the nature of the program and the cohort system on which it is based, the semester course load for each semester is pre-determined. You will be taking courses with other members of your cohort. A table of scheduled courses can be found in the Prospectus under “Tentative Schedule of Coursework.”

Do you offer any other admission times besides the spring semester for the Ed.D.?

We only offer spring admissions.

Do I have to take summer courses in the Ed.D. program?

Yes, as a student in the Online Ed.D. Program you will be required to participate in summer courses each summer throughout the program.

How many weeks does each course last for the Ed.D.?

Courses for this program follow the regular TAMU academic semester calendar. Students complete two courses each semester, with each course lasting a full semester.

How is the Online Ed.D. content delivered?

The content of the entire Online Ed.D. Program is delivered asynchronously through a web-based delivery system. All classes will be offered online through Texas A&M University. The program follows a cohort model, with all students in each cohort enrolled together in classes throughout the program.

How often will I be required to come to campus?/What are the residency requirements?

Three campus visits are required during the program. The first visit is a mandatory on-campus orientation the Friday before the first semester of classes. The second visit is after the second summer of courses to work with the student’s faculty chair on the Record of Study topic. The third visit is scheduled as the student prepares to defend the Record of Study. More information can be found in the program’s Prospectus.

Texas A&M University has a residency requirement for EdD students which requires students to be enrolled “full-time” for at least two semesters. Students in this program who are full-time employees during the program can be exempted from this requirement. (Additional information will be needed, such as a petition and verification of employment.) If not employed full-time during the program, students will need to register for additional hours at the end of the program to meet the residency requirement.

How long does it take to complete the Online Ed.D. Program?

The prospectus of the Online Ed.D. Program lays out a minimum four-year completion time line. Students are required to enroll in the spring, summer, and fall semesters for each academic year until the program is completed. The time of completion will vary due to the Record of Study required at the end of the program. Some students are able to complete this in two semesters, wheras other student might take longer.

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Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

No GRE or GMAT required for unconditional admission for most students.

Build your network on-campus with in-person classes at a top university recognized as one of the top 5 most ethnically diverse undergraduate student bodies in the United States (U.S. News & World Report, 2023)

UTA has expanded graduate tuition support to cover 100% of tuition and mandatory fees for Ph.D. students who are employed half-time as a graduate teaching assistant, graduate research assistant, or as a teaching or research associate. Opportunities are competitive and availability is limited.

UTA is associate member of the University Council for Educational Administration, a consortium of higher education institutions committed to advancing the preparation and practice of educational leaders.

Challenge the Status Quo

Our doctoral degree program challenges the conventional wisdom that K-12 and postsecondary education are different worlds by bringing together scholars and students from all levels of education to work and study together. Working from the premise that all people can learn at high levels, the program explores the systemic barriers that prevent so many individuals from achieving their fullest potential.

About the Program

• Program Benefits
• Completion Time

Transfer Credits

• Cost & Paying for School

Additional Information

Doctoral students in this program receive a broad foundation in the study of educational leadership and policy development through a wide range of course offerings focused on both K-12 leadership and higher education.

Program Advantages & Learning Outcomes

• Expanded career options and higher salary potential.
• Explore evidence-based approaches to education and learn to develop logical and research reasoning skills.
• Improve expertise in chosen dissertation, in consultation with dissertation chair and faculty members.

Career Opportunities 

Our Ph.D. helps give you the expertise needed to become a leader in education. Professional employment opportunities after graduation may include: 

• Administration professional in institutions of higher education.
• Administrator or superintendent in PK-12 education.
• Professor of educational leadership.
• Educational consultant or research. 
• Policy-making roles.  

Completion Time 

At UTA, our Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies a flexible, on-campus program designed for both full-time students and working adults interested in a part-time program. Our average doctoral candidate completes this program in approximately 4 years. However, the exact length of the program may vary by student.

Among the benefits: 

• Students are admitted in fall semesters into a cohort system. This means you will be admitted with a group of about 10-15 students and complete most of your coursework with this same group of students. You are allowed to choose some electives, so those courses may vary from the traditional cohort system.
• The program requires 66 credit hours in total. Students typically take two courses per term (6 credits) for the first two years (with the first summer included).
• The required courses are offered on Monday and Thursday evenings. Electives are offered on Wednesday evenings if students choose to take more than six credits per term. If students do take electives at the same time as their required coursework, they will then be able to begin their dissertation work early. The student, in collaboration with their dissertation chair, sets their pace on completing the dissertation.

Cost & Paying for School

The estimated cost for tuition and mandatory fees is $3,628 as of Spring 2024 for  an in-state, Texas resident enrolling in 6 credit hours (two courses) of graduate coursework through the College of Education. 

Please note that the cost can vary by student in relation to that student's individual circumstances. Additional fees may apply.

For the best approximation of your school costs for tuition and fees, visit the UTA Tuition Estimator .

Funding Opportunities 

UTA offers competitive funding options.

Funding for Graduate Assistants 

Learn More . 

Funding for UTA Employees

UTA employees may be eligible to use the Employee Tuition Affordability Program to help pay for school. Details are online . 

View the Official Catalog to view the admissions requirements, dissertation information, degree plan details, and more. 

Watch the Information Session

Apply for our fall cohort.

Candidates in the Ph.D. program will be part of a cohort throughout their required coursework, leading to the dissertation. Research has demonstrated that cohort models can be very effective in fostering deep learning and increasing the likelihood of students moving towards program completion. Because most of the students in the program work full-time, they are required to take only six graduate credit hours per semester. However, students who wish to complete the program as a full-time student can opt to take additional elective courses. 

View Dissertation Topics

View the previous dissertation topics selected by our doctoral students: https://rc.library.uta.edu/uta-ir/handle/10106/11294 .

How to Apply

Our PDF application provides all the information you need to apply to our Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. Submit all application materials and any questions about the program to [email protected] . Open the link below to get started.

The 2024 deadline has passed.

Ready to apply? The Ph.D. application packet for the 2024 deadline has passed. 

*This program accepts applicants for the Fall cohort only.

Tap Into Your Potential

Ph.D. student Courtney Matthews talks about her experience getting her degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.

Course of Study

1. research methods core (15 hours).

2. Core Content Courses (15 hours)

3. Elective Courses (18 Hours)

4. Dissertation (18 hours minimum) selected from:

5. Final Dissertation Defense

Important Information

View doctoral applications, forms and handbooks for this program.

• Doctoral Handbook 2022-23
• Doctoral Handbook 2021-22 (DOCX)
• Elective Approval Form (pdf)
• ELPS Dissertation Committee Form (pdf)

Program Director

Dr. yi leaf zhang.

Research Interests: College access, student transition & success, STEM education

Email: [email protected]

Phone #: 817-272-9221

Office: Trimble Hall 103 D

Bio: Dr. Yi Leaf Zhang is a Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Texas at Arlington. Zhang has developed a strong interest in studying college access and success, especially in the community college context. Her research focuses on community colleges as a gateway to STEM education, transfer students’ educational pathways, and international education in four-year and two-year institutions. Zhang is currently an editorial board member of the Community College Journal of Research and Practice (CCJRP) and an associate editor of the Journal of International Students (JIS).

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Get information about College of Education programs, admissions requirements, and more.

ELPS Ph.D. alumni have gone on to serve as:

- Administrators in institutions of higher education

- Administrators and superintendents in K-12 education

- Professors of educational leadership

Education Advising

Hammond Hall 132 Box 19227, 701 Planetarium Place Advising Emails Undergraduate Students: [email protected] Graduate In-Person Programs: [email protected] Graduate Online Programs: [email protected]

817-272-2956

General College Contacts

5th Floor, Hammond Hall, 701 Planetarium Place Box 19227, Arlington, TX 76019-0227 Email Addresses General Email: [email protected] Office of Educational Certification: [email protected] Office of Educational Field Experiences: [email protected] Phone

817-272-2591

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Higher Education

• College of Education
• Graduate Program

Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education (Ph.D.)

• Delivery : Online
• Hours to Completion: 60
• Maximum Transfer Hours: 30

Texas Tech's Higher Education program is committed to preparing students for roles in teaching, research and engagement in higher education contexts. Students and alumni have utilized the skills, knowledge and application acquired through their doctoral program to positively impact higher education institutions across the globe. The Higher Education faculty are committed to investing in our students' success while they are enrolled as well as after they graduate.

The Ph.D. in Higher Education has been approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and is taught fully online. Please contact Pam Smith at [email protected] for application requirements. Qualified applicants should have a master's degree in a related field, research foundation coursework, and experience in higher education organizations.

Request More Information

How does this degree advance my career? Graduates of the Ph.D. in Higher Education program will lead the identification, analysis, evaluation and application of critical research that addresses higher education issues related to multiple and diverse populations and a variety of sociocultural contexts domestically and internationally. The program develops skills for those seeking career advancement in both administrative and faculty tracks. 

For those students interested in Research Assistantships, please contact Dr. Jon McNaughtan at [email protected] . Research Assistants are offered a generous financial package that will cover tuition and most fees. To be selected as a Research Assistant, a student must be willing to live in Lubbock and work 20 hours a week with a faculty mentor.

How is the program delivered? The Ph.D. program is delivered through hybrid, intensive, and online coursework.

Course of Study / Course Sequence The Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education – Higher Education Research is a 66-hour degree program. Full-time and part-time students should plan on completing the degree in three to four years.

The doctoral curriculum is comprised of five elements: (I) Foundations Core, (II) Statistics and Research Core, (III) Higher Education Core, (IV) Research Electives; (V) Higher Education Electives, (VI) Capstone and Qualifying Exam, and (VII) Doctoral Dissertation.

We will still offer on campus assistantships for selected students and they should submit their applications by the deadline of January 15th if they wish to be considered for all institutional financial aid opportunities.

Trademark Outcomes The trademark outcome of the Ph.D. in Higher Education are graduates with exceptional skills in inquiry. Graduates will demonstrate the research skills and the creative modes of thinking that enable them to act as scholarly reformers who advance the field.

The distinctive student learning outcomes expected of our Ph.D. graduates are:

• Compare and contrast the social, cultural, and economic roles of higher education in U.S. and international contexts.
• Analyze policies to understand impacts on higher education and its various constituents.
• Utilize the findings of critical inquiries to propose alternative policies, practices, and strategies for higher education.
• Lead research utilizing various methodologies and types of data appropriate for higher education subject matter.
• Lead higher education change management strategies.

Transfer Policy Transfer credit from another university will be evaluated and awarded in accordance with the guidelines established by the Graduate School. In no case can transfer credit reduce the minimum residency requirement. The majority of students are given a thirty-hour block transfer for the completion of a master's degree. However, students and their faculty advisors should assess whether transfer or course replacement credit may be awarded for any of the Ph.D. curricular requirements. Courses with a letter grade other than A or B cannot be counted for transfer credit (including Pass/Fail).

Tuition and Fees Information on Tuition and Fees can be found by visiting the Student Business Services webpage.

• Ph.D. Handbook (2022-2023)
• Ph.D. Handbook (2023-2024)
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Graduate School

UH Doctoral Degree Programs

The university of houston offers a wide array of programs leading to the doctoral degree. whichever program you choose, you’ll work closely with renowned scholars, conduct ground-breaking research and prepare for a dynamic future., doctor of education.

• Health Science Education
• K-12 Leadership
• Literacy Education
• Mathematics Education
• Social Studies/Social Education
• Special Populations

Doctor of Musical Arts

• Collaborative Piano
• Composition
• Music Education
• Performance 

Doctor of Philosophy

• Atmospheric Sciences
• Biochemistry
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• Accountancy
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• Higher Education Leadership & Policy Studies
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• Materials Science & Engineering
• Mathematics
• Measurement, Qualitative Analysis, & Learning Sciences
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• Petroleum Engineering
• Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes & Policy
• Pharmaceutics 
• Pharmacology
• Physiological Optics
• Political Science
• Clinical Psychology
• Developmental, Cognitive, and Behavioral Neuroscience
• Industrial-Organizational Psychology
• Social Psychology
• School Psychology
• Social Work

Professional Doctorate Programs

• Optometry (OD)
• Pharmacy (PharmD)

Doctorate in Educational Administration, emphasis in:

Higher education administration, learn about our educational administration: higher education administration program.

Attending any one of the informational webinars is strongly recommended to strengthen your application and materials to the Ph.D. program. During the webinar, you will have opportunities to interact with program faculty who will answer any questions you may have.

Upcoming sessions

• Tuesday, August 13 — 4:00 p.m. (CST) Hosted by Dr. Christine Stanley
• Monday, September 9 — 12:00 p.m. (CST) Hosted by Dr. Vincente Lechuga

To attend the session:

Join Zoom Meeting

https://tamu.zoom.us/j/94750100813?pwd=ZDFKMEwrUFhXTzY0ZjNZZXd0c3BnUT09

Meeting ID: 947 5010 0813 Passcode: saahe

Program Overview

Our 67-hour doctoral program prepares students for leadership roles in higher education administration, teaching, and research through an emphasis in integrating theory and practice. The degree has several required courses as well as electives that are chosen based on the student’s support field in a related discipline, and must be approved by the committee chair.

About the Field

Higher education is a broad-based area of knowledge and study that examines the management and coordination of programs, policies, and processes pertaining to colleges and universities.

These programs, policies, and processes include issues associated with:

• Assessment and curriculum
• Enrollment and equity
• Governance and law
• Organizational behavior
• Policy and resource management
• Students and teaching

Career Paths in Higher Education

Career paths in higher education come in a wide variety, and are dependent on academic qualifications, as well as job responsibilities required within and across academia. For example, the career path to become a president (an institution’s chief executive officer or CEO) at a university like Texas A&M, designated as a R1: Doctoral Research University, is different for a baccalaureate college or a master’s college and university.

While it is possible to prepare for a career in higher education administration with a bachelor’s degree, most colleges and universities require an advanced degree. Higher education administrators typically hold a masters or doctorate degree with areas of specialization including:

• Student Affairs
• Research methodology

A graduate degree in higher education can prepare you for a career in a postsecondary or professional setting, such as:

• Academic administration
• Administrative leadership
• College teaching
• Educational development
• Faculty in higher education (tenure and non-tenure track appointment)
• Training and development

Vision and Mission

Our program has a specific focus on infusing an equity minded agenda that is reflected in the courses we teach, the research we conduct, and the service we provide at the local, state, and national levels. Specifically, we offer areas of emphasis including higher education administration, student affairs administration and a certificate in college teaching for aspiring postsecondary instructors. We excel at graduating scholar practitioners.

We strive to prepare students to be equity-minded leaders in higher education in Texas and beyond.

We prepare future faculty members, administrators, and scholar-practitioners with interests in working at community colleges, four-year institutions, and state, and national organizations.

Core Values

• Mentoring and Teaching: Challenging and supporting students through quality mentoring and teaching
• Knowledge Development: Developing critical consumers and producers of knowledge.
• Service: As a land grant institution, we embrace service to our diverse communities

Why choose Texas A&M?

We welcome prospective students who want to engage with a community of scholars devoted to advancing research, policies, and practice focused on pressing issues in higher education. We have faculty members, administrators, and graduate students committed to being leaders at the local, state, regional, and national levels.

Our program offers opportunities to:

• Work alongside faculty as research collaborators.
• Make a meaningful opportunity to contribute to national discourses in higher education and student affairs.
• Engage in a learning community.
• Serve or lead at the national level.
• Apply academic learning and teaching in professional practice.
• Individualize and tailor your educational experience based on personal goals.

Other program and university highlights:

• Faculty committed to student success
• Faculty with a breadth and depth of knowledge and experiences beyond teaching
• Graduate Fellowship from the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies
• Graduate student support and involvement (e.g., GRAB/SAAHE professional organization, Black graduate student association, Hispanic graduate student association, Graduate student senate?)
• Extensive academic support available through Texas A&M University (e.g. Writing Center, World Class Research Library)

Admissions Deadline: December 1

To be admitted to a graduate program, you must apply to the EAHR department and Texas A&M University.

Program Details

Degree: Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Educational Administration Emphasis:  Higher Education Administration Degrees Offered: Doctor of Philosophy Credit Hours: 67 hours (minimum of 96 hours without a Masters degree)

This doctoral program is designed for aspiring faculty, experienced staff members and organizational/institutional leaders at various stages in their careers. With compelling and diverse coursework, our program offers exceptional academic preparation for scholar-practitioners that reflects the guiding principles of Texas A&M and our department.

Our graduates are senior higher education administrators, faculty members, vice presidents, and Deans. Our faculty are leading scholars in several research areas, including:

• Student retention and financial aid,
• The preparation and retention of underrepresented groups such as males interested in attending a postsecondary institution,
• Faculty work-life issues,
• Diversity issues in higher education,
• College teaching, and
• Qualitative research.

For a better understanding of your total cost of attendance (COA), please visit our cost and tuition rates webpage ( https://aggie.tamu.edu/billing-and-payments/cost-and-tuition-rates ). This webpage will provide you with an opportunity to review estimated COA information for undergraduate, graduate and professional students, as well as other resources such as the tuition calculator and billing and fee explanations.

Degree Plan

As a student in our Ph.D. program, you will be enrolling in a variety of courses. Courses such as Educational Foundations of Higher Education and Policy Issues in Higher Education, for example, work in tandem to help you understand how colleges and universities function in the broader society. Other courses, including Administration of Higher Education provide an understanding of how universities function and prepare graduates for leadership roles.

• You will have a number of opportunities to enroll in elective courses of your choosing within the program and department.
• You will be required to take courses outside our department and to develop a secondary field of concentration.
• Your concentration courses do not have to be from the same field but fit together to prepare you for your professional career and dissertation research
• You will work with your faculty advisor to tailor a program of study, including your area of concentration, that will assist you in choosing courses that help develop and shape your research interest(s) and position you to succeed in higher education now and in the future.

Ph.D. Curriculum

Download Degree Plan Elective Concentration Possibilities

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Higher education program faq, can i focus on an area of specialization.

We encourage students to choose an area of specialization to further enhance their learning experience in our program.

Do I need a master's degree?

Our students come from a variety of undergraduate and graduate disciplines, and can tailor their graduate program to their particular career goals. Students from inside and outside of higher education make for rich classroom discussions. If a student is admitted to this program without a master’s degree, they will need additional coursework beyond the traditional 73 credit hours.

How can I strengthen my application?

All prospective Ph.D. students are highly encouraged to meet with a program faculty member prior to applying to the program, to ask questions and ensure that it will help meet your goals. These meetings can also serve as opportunities for prospective students to find out what type of candidates the program is looking for.

Prospective students are encouraged to apply early, especially if they are wanting to be considered for awards, such as fellowships and assistantships.

Are GRE scores required?

GRE scores are not required for admission to the Ph.D. program.

How soon can I apply?

Applications for the Ph.D. program are accepted August 1-December 1 , for the following Fall semester.

It is recommended applicants submit all application materials in advance of the deadline to ensure a complete application when reviews begin.

How do I apply?

Completed application.

• A completed Texas A&M University GraduateCAS application.
• The name on your application  must  match your name as it appears in your passport.
• Application fee : A non-refundable $89 application fee for domestic applicants and $114 application fee for international applicants. The application fee may be paid by check, money order or approved credit card. Applicants who wish to pay by credit card may do so as part of the online application. If you are unable to pay the fee online, you may call the Graduate Admissions Office at 979-845-1060.
• Official transcripts and records : Submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.

Note: You do not need to submit an official transcript from Texas A&M University .  Learn more about submitting official transcripts .

How to Apply:

• Doctoral Application Information 

What types of funding are available to Ph.D. students?

Full-time PhD students are eligible to apply for Graduate Assistantships. These assistantships pay for nine hours of tuition, as well as a monthly stipend. These assistantships range from assisting with courses, teaching undergraduate courses, or assisting with research.

Full-time students are also eligible to be nominated by faculty for a fellowship. These fellowships are competitive, so prospective students are encouraged to have their admission applications submitted early. They are also encouraged to meet with faculty members in the program to discuss their interest in the program, as well as being considered for an award.

Students who are not full-time can contact the  Student Financial Aid  office for other funding opportunities available to graduate students.

What do I need to include in my Statement of Purpose?

Admissions committee members look mainly for fit between what the applicant wants from a graduate program, and what we offer.

In the personal statement, applicants are encouraged to clearly state and connect their background or current work, particularly their future career plans, to the degree they are seeking.

Because the doctorate is a research degree, applicants are invited to discuss potential research interests. These do not need to be well developed; however, if an applicant’s research interests relate to the work of a particular faculty member, mentioning it can be helpful.

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Darby roberts.

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Jerry M. Brown

Managing Counsel, Student Affairs & Special Projects in the Office of General Counsel

Cinthya Salazar

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Chaddrick James-Gallaway

Daniel Pugh

Professor of Practice

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Become a Thoughtful Leader in Education through Empowerment

The Concordia University Texas Doctorate of Education (EdD) program will help you advance your career and become a leader in education in traditional learning settings and corporate organizations, empowering students and staff to go forth and change their world.

The EdD at Concordia is a three-year online program with two weeklong summer residencies and locked-in, competitive tuition rates. 

Request Info   APPLY

2 residencies

Locked-In Tuition

60 Credit Hours

Become a leader in Education

Two Unique Specializations

Concordia offers two unique specializations that cater your education to your future aspirations. The Educational Leadership specialization focuses on leadership at the district/central office level, while the Curriculum & Instruction specialization focuses on leadership and curriculum development with a focus on strategy for teaching mastery.

Collaborative Cohort Model

Students in the Concordia EdD work through their program in a cohort model of 10-12 students. This model facilitates collaboration, support, and peer learning communities through a shared experience.

No GRE or Admissions Test Required

Concordia requires no GRE or admissions test for entry to the program. Our focus is on increasing access for all students to a high-quality advanced degree and we know that testing does not always accurately measure the skill and knowledge of prospective students.

Concordia University Texas empowers students of all backgrounds to lead lives of critical thought, compassionate action and courageous leadership. As a liberal arts university rooted in the Lutheran tradition and aligned with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, Concordia develops the mind, heart, soul, and body, preparing leaders for lives of service.

We are the premier university where the adventure of faith, learning, and life-changing experiences leads to meaningful work.

Educational Leadership

Advance your leadership knowledge in the K-16 environment with this unique concentration. Classes include Advanced School Law and Conflict Resolution and prepare students for the optional Texas Superintendent certification exam.

Curriculum & Instruction

Ideal for educators who want to pursue curriculum leadership, higher education, or educational policy. This concentration includes courses such as Curriculum Theory and Program Evaluation.

• School District Leadership and Administration
• Superintendent
• Higher Education Professor
• Chief Learning Officer (organizational)
• Leadership Opportunities in K-12 School Admin
• Educational Consultant
• Director of Curriculum
• Educational Policy Advocate
• HR Training & Development Specialist
• Non-profit Administration
• University Administrator/Instructor

Students also learn strategies for teaching mastery.

What I understand about being an administrator is what I learned from Concordia. There are still things that I’m learning and growing in, but Concordia taught me how to ask the right type of questions, how to re-examine what I’m doing, and how to improve my work.

EdD students spend the first two years of the program completing practical coursework and the final year working on a CRIP project or dissertation.

The program begins with the first residency session on the Concordia University Texas campus in Austin, Texas. Students complete a one-week orientation on campus that includes course activities (8 a.m.–5 p.m.) that are an integral part of their 8-week EDU 6310 Christian Ethics course.  

The second residency session occurs during the following summer, at which time students return to campus for a week to complete additional course activities in a hands-on manner for another 8-week core course (8 a.m.–5 p.m.). After taking and passing the qualifying exam at the end of the first year, students are formally entered into candidacy for the Doctor of Education and complete 24 credit hours of specialization courses.

The foundational coursework is completed online, aside from the two required weeklong residencies.

During the third year, students shift their focus to the required practicum (six credit hours) and their CRIP project or dissertation (nine credit hours). Students can complete the entire program in just over three years following this plan.

Students choose to complete either the CRIP project or a doctoral dissertation.

The CRIP is an alternative to the theoretical doctoral dissertation. This option allows students more flexibility to identify research, curriculum, or leadership initiative needs within their school districts or organizations and develop research-based solutions and evaluations. The creative aspect of this option provides a more accommodating modality for student research while upholding the expectations of a doctoral program.

The CRIP may appeal to students looking to become active problem-solvers within their districts, impress district leadership with research-based solutions, and become valued contributors within their current environments.

The theoretical dissertation is also an option. A dissertation focuses on evaluating or constructing theory based on research methods focused on this end. Dissertations use the standard five-chapter format allowing students to develop more generalizable conclusions and recommendations.

The dissertation may appeal to students looking to excel in careers within higher education or the educational research community.

Dissertation Handbook (PDF)

Students in both specializations have the choice of completing either a CRIP project or a dissertation throughout the third year of the EdD program.

Before students start their dissertation (3rd year of the program) a committee will be assigned to them. The committee chair is assigned during the Spring of year 2 and the other two committee members are assigned before they start dissertation coursework in the Fall of their 3rd year.  

Admission to the optional Texas Superintendent Certification program is completed toward the end of the first year of the EdD program for students pursuing the Educational Leadership (EDL) specialization.

Superintendent certification courses are part of the EDL specialization program and are subject to the regulations of the Texas Education Agency. At this time, the candidate seeking Texas Superintendent Certification must:

• Submit a written application for admission.
• Complete a faculty interview (rubric with faculty recommendation).
• Be admitted to EdD Candidacy (Qualifying Exam report).
• Provide service record showing at least three credible years of managerial experience in a public school district.
• Provide a certificate demonstrating a valid, unexpired mid-management/principal certification from Texas.   To be accepted and remain in the Texas Superintendent Certification program at Concordia University Texas, the candidate must:
• Meet all admission requirements to the Educational Leadership specialization, including a minimum GPA of 3.0 either cumulatively or in the last 60 credit hours from the most recently earned master's degree or higher
• Earn passing scores on both the interview and qualifying exam
• Accept the admissions offer within the required time frame
• Remain in good standing with the University
• Pass all the necessary coursework
• Pass a Superintendent Certification Practice Exam after completing specialization courses.
• Complete EDL 6335 Practicum I and EDL 6336 Practicum II at a TEA-approved district in Texas under the guidance of a state-certified mentor (Texas Superintendent Certification) with at least three years of experience.
• Pass the TExES Superintendent Exam after completing EDL 6335 Practicum I or EDL 6336 Practicum II. 

EdD Handbook (PDF) Library 

Curriculum & Instruction Practicum Resources

EdD C&I Practicum Handbook (PDF)

C&I Practicum Proposal Form (PDF)

Educational Leadership Practicum Resources

EdD EDL Practicum Handbook (PDF)

EDL Practicum Proposal Form (PDF)

Admission Requirements

• Complete application
• Master's degree from an accredited university with a graduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Combined five years of credited teaching experience and/or administrative/leadership experience (mid-management or principal certification for those seeking Texas Superintendent Certification)
• Employer Support Form (PDF) or a letter from the applicant's employer indicating support for the candidate's pursuit of the EdD, willingness to allow the candidate to conduct fieldwork in the organization (if a school district), and flexibility in work schedule so candidate can attend class and conduct approved fieldwork
• Present supervisor
• Academic/Professor
• Co-worker/Professional peer
• Official transcripts from accredited master's degree-conferring institution
• Resume or CV that summarizes educational and professional career (applicant should be able to explain any gaps in service)
• Letter of intent that introduces the applicant to the EdD Review Committee and answers the question, "Given the mission of Concordia, what can this program do for me?" (two typed pages, double-spaced)
• Sample of scholarly writing (research from graduate school, published article, or paper that demonstrates the ability to conduct cited scholarly research)
• For Texas Superintendent Certification only — a copy of service record and Social Security number
• Evidence of English language fluency (if applicable)
• Although no formal testing is required for entry, scores from the recent (five years or less) Graduate Record Exam (GRE) will be accepted and may be used if space is limited
• Space in the program is limited, so the quality of items submitted will be taken into account. Various point values may be assigned to the above items in cases where there are more qualified applicants than program space. In all cases, Concordia will select students who present the most competitive applications and who we consider most likely to be successful, contributing members of the Concordia community who will graduate.

NOTE: Only fully complete admissions packets will be forwarded to the EdD Review Committee. Applications with incomplete materials will be held until all materials are received.

Application Process

The admissions process begins with submitting an application to the Office of Admissions. Decisions regarding acceptance are made at the completion of the application file. All applicants will be considered on an individual basis.

1. Online Application and Application Fee

Complete the online application and pay the $50 non-refundable application fee. On your application, please use your legal name and fill in any maiden names.

If you have a promo code, do not enter your credit card information.

2. Transcripts

Submit official transcripts from the college or university where you earned your master's degree.

The Office of Admissions requires that you have the official transcript from your degree-granting institution sent directly to the University (see official address below). Please request your transcript immediately, as it may take up to six weeks for transcripts to arrive in our office.

If any transcripts are from a foreign institution, an official WES Foreign Education Credential Service evaluation must be completed and sent to the Office of Admissions. For more information please visit the WES websites. Please note: This process could take several weeks.

You have three ways to get your transcripts to Concordia:

Student Delivered A student-delivered transcript will be accepted as an official transcript only if it is received in the original sealed envelope and stamped by the institution of records as "Issued to Student in a Sealed Envelope."

Electronically

National Transcript Center

Mailed Concordia University Texas Office of Admissions Processing 11400 Concordia University Drive Austin, TX 78726

3. Professional Work Experience

Submit a copy of your resume that shows at least five combined years of credited teaching experience and/or administrative/leadership experience (mid-management or principal certification for those seeking Texas Superintendent Certification). Leadership experience should be starred on your resume if it's not obvious.

Students seeking Texas Superintendent Certification must submit a copy of their service record and Social Security number.

4. Other Materials

EdD applicants must also submit the following:

• Employer Support Form (PDF) or a letter of support from your employer
• Three letters of reference
• Letter of intent
• Sample of scholarly writing
• Evidence of English-language fluency (if applicable)
• Optional GRE scores

5. Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the online federal application at studentaid.gov for the school year. The Concordia University Texas school code is 003557 .

For those eligible, financial aid is available in the form of unsubsidized loans.

6. Payment Options

The Concordia EdD features locked-in tuition, meaning that you will pay the same rate of tuition throughout the entire program.

Please send all admissions documents to the address below. Office of Admissions Processing Concordia University Texas 11400 Concordia University Drive Austin, TX 78726

FAX: 512-313-4639

[email protected]

The Concordia EdD program offers locked-in tuition, meaning that you will pay the same tuition rate throughout the duration of the program.

View Program Costs

Financial Aid Opportunities

Please visit our Financial Aid page to learn about payment options, deadlines, FAFSA and how to get help paying for your education.

If you have any questions, please contact your admissions counselor .

Financial Aid Info

Payment Types

Concordia accepts three methods of payment:

• Online through your MyInfo account
• Check or money order sent by mail to: Concordia University Texas, Attn: Student Accounts, 11400 Concordia University Dr., Austin, TX 78726
• Cash, check, credit or debit card at the Student Central office, which is located on campus at C-256 in Cedel Hall

Payment plans are available and can be set up through your MyInfo account.

Service Members Information

Concordia University Texas is grateful, proud and supportive of those who have or continue to serve through the military.

For those looking to start or continue their education, we have a variety of options to assist. CTX is a Yellow-Ribbon Institution and accepts most VA-funded students, including Montgomery and Post 9/11. Note that the Hazelwood Act is only valid for public institutions.

View Service Members Information

Frequently Asked Questions

An EdD will allow you to gain advanced knowledge and skills related to the field of education. Individuals who want to demonstrate their dedication to the field and their pursuit of understanding will benefit from earning an EdD. The passion to optimize student performance drives individuals to further their education to further their abilities.

Many school districts (primarily mid-size to larger) require their superintendents and executive team (e.g., regional superintendents, curriculum director, finance director, etc.) to possess a terminal degree and often seek those individuals who have completed their Superintendent Certification.

Additionally, an EdD will help you stand out in the marketplace, giving you access to opportunities for advancement and larger salaries that would otherwise be unavailable.

By further developing your instructional knowledge and leadership skills, you will be better prepared to empower your students, trainees, and coworkers to succeed.

Concordia's EdD program is designed for busy adults with full schedules. You'll complete most of the coursework online, and the CRIP/dissertation is built into the three-year timeline.

With the Concordia EdD, you can access new advancement opportunities, better pay, and higher leadership roles. Students will also gain skills to better assist students of all backgrounds, lead districts to better educational outcomes, and help learners reach their highest potential.

Educators with an EdD can become school district executives, faculty at the university level, training supervisors in businesses, school-level curriculum leaders, or chief learning officers in corporations.

I adore having the opportunity to assist students in developing research projects that not only help their immediate context, but that may also work to aid students across districts and regions. That is one commonality that I have seen with the CTX EdD students. They all want to make a difference.

Learn more about Darnell Horton's journey of grit and perseverance to earning a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree from Concordia.

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Developmental Disabilities and Autism Special Education Ph.D.

Want more info.

We're so glad you're interested in UNT! Let us know if you'd like more information and we'll get you everything you need.

Why Earn a Developmental Disabilities and Autism Special Education Ph.D.?

In addition to the required course work, all doctoral students will have opportunities to accomplish a number of professional competencies including submitting a grant application, submitting a manuscript for publication consideration, course instruction, and presenting at professional conventions.

The requirements are designed to increase the capacity of graduates to provide effective leadership in the area of autism programming and policy development and to conduct valid, empirical intervention-based research that will bridge existing research-to-practice gaps and improve outcomes for students with autism spectrum disorders and their families.

A master's degree in Special Education or a closely related field is required for application to the doctoral program. Candidates with master's degrees in other fields will be required to take up to five additional courses in Special Education, with advisor's approval.

• Synthesize empirical literature for research trends
• Critically evaluate existing research
• Design/conduct methodologically rigorous research
• Evaluate special education programs/personnel
• Apply knowledge for educational/social policy-making

Developmental Disabilities and Autism Special Education Ph.D. Highlights

What can you do with a developmental disabilities and autism special education ph.d..

This program prepares graduates to:

• Become involved in community-based programming
• Network with professionals in special education and other disciplines
• Participate in interdepartmental studies
• Assess and evaluate students with special needs
• Analyze the implications of school reform/refine the delivery of services to students with special needs
• Fill leadership personnel needs in special education
• Offer prevention and evidence-based interventions for at-risk populations and individuals with disabilities
• Provide services for culturally and linguistically diverse children with special needs in urban and rural areas

Developmental Disabilities and Autism Special Education Ph.D. Courses You Could Take

Learn More About UNT

Explore more options.

It’s easy to apply online. Join us and discover why we’re the choice of nearly 47,000 students.

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Education Policy and Planning Program

Department of Educational Leadership and Policy

The Educational Policy and Planning (EPP) Program, ranked 9th by  U.S. News & World Report ,   prepares the next generation of scholars, researchers, and analysts who will significantly and positively change public education. Our programs prepare students to be anti-racist education policy scholars and analysts, with a critical focus on issues of equity.

Our  master’s program (M.Ed.) , designed for working professionals by offering late afternoon and evening courses, trains students in education policy analysis. Students gain a theoretical foundation in policy implementation, politics, school law, poverty and educational policy, and critical policy analysis. Students gain a theoretical foundation in educational policy implementation and policy analysis, both traditional and critical approaches, as well as politics, law, and poverty in educational systems. Our program prepares students for careers as policy analysts, researchers in the public and private sectors, and for entry into a doctoral program in educational policy.

The  doctoral program (Ph.D.)  prepares future faculty members, policy analysts, and researchers to be thoughtful scholars with a critical focus on issues of equity. Students receive rigorous training in education politics, policy implementation, organizations, race and ethnicity, gender, poverty, social and cultural contexts of education, and the economics of education. This is a full-time program of graduate study; we do not have the capacity to accept part-time students.

Our cohort model provides built-in peer support as students move through the program, while also providing opportunities for inter-generational learning and research collaborations with faculty. In addition, students work closely with faculty mentors to develop a research focus, culminating in the dissertation.

Our faculty members are nationally recognized experts in high-stakes testing, market-based reforms, equity-minded reforms, issues of linguistic and cultural diversity, and school improvement.

Both programs employ a cohort model and start in the fall semester.

The GRE is not required for those applying for admission to the Education Policy and Planning program. Please note that some university-wide fellowship programs may consider GRE scores. Applicants who want to be eligible for all possible fellowships and scholarships should take the GRE.

• Masters Program of Study
• Doctoral Program of Study

Researches how early childhood stakeholders respond to and conceptualize policies affecting the the complex educational, cultural, and individual goals and aspirations of teachers, children, and their families.

Examines collaborative approaches involving community organizations and stakeholders that improve academic achievement and reduce opportunity gaps for students. Also studies chronic absenteeism, the role of high school athletics in school settings, a...

Focuses on urban school and district leadership, inclusive practices for students with disabilities, and school improvement with an emphasis on addressing inequities in classrooms, schools, and communities.

Accepting new students

Examines the effects of state and federal policies on college access and completion outcomes for low-income and underrepresented populations including immigrant and English Learner students.

Develops school leaders with the knowledge, skill, and disposition to foster collaborative instructional systems to produce high levels of adult engagement in their unique school environments to assure every student learns well and thrives, with a fo...

Examines principals and school-community engagement/community development and issues of educational equity and opportunity.

Focuses on the politics and implementation of educational policy with an emphasis on school reform

Focuses on identifying factors that hinder or promote the success of children and families from vulnerable and underserved populations.

I study student success for children experiencing poverty. I analyze how school leadership and state policy facilitate student success across the education pipeline.

Specializes in urban education from a sociological and multicultural perspective, with a focus on minority youth in schools, particularly at the K-12 level.

Examines issue of power and voice in education policy making and implementation processes, with a focus on public school district superintendents and school boards.

Uses lenses from organizational sociology to study how district leaders, principals, coaches, and teachers implement policy

Additional Resources

• Educational Leadership and Policy Wiki
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Graduate Student Profiles
• Alumni Profiles

Ph.D. Program Co-coordinator Sarah Woulfin

M.Ed. Program Co-coordinator Christopher Brown

Ph.D. and M.Ed. Co-coordinator Sofia Malik

Request Information

Undergraduate Study

Our undergraduate program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in human development and family sciences.

Gain hands-on experience through our comprehensive practicum programs, bridging classroom learning with real-world applications.

Degree Pathways

Explore various degree pathways unique to your academic interests and career goals.

Elevate your academic journey through the honors program, which offers advanced coursework and research opportunities.

The School of Human Ecology Advising Center is here to assist you with both virtual and in-person options.  

Visit the Advising center  

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Find supports to help you navigate challenges, access guidance and tutoring and find mentorship from peers.  

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Study Abroad

Enhance your academic experience through courses, research, service-learning and internships abroad to expand your expertise and strengthen your portfolio as you launch your career.  

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