25 Best Online Doctoral Programs in Higher Education [2024 Guide]

If you want to build an exciting career in the stimulating environment of colleges and universities, you may consider online doctoral programs in higher education.

Doctoral Programs in Higher Education

You may find yourself in mid-career, thinking about the next step to propel you forward in your professional life. Or you may be completing your undergraduate degree and considering your next academic move.

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With an EdD in Higher Education, you may advance your expertise and qualify for top positions in postsecondary administration.

Universities Offering Doctorate in Higher Education 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.

1. Andrews University

Andrews University offers several options for higher education administration graduate degrees. Students can choose from the Master of Arts, Educational Specialist, Doctor of Education (EdD), or PhD in the field. Both the EdD and PhD doctoral programs are designed for professionals hoping to take on policy-making or senior administration roles.

Andrews University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Appalachian State University

Students can choose from six concentrations in Appalachian State University’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program.

Those who select the Higher Education concentration will take 60 credits in courses on emerging issues, writing for professional educators, policy analysis in higher education, designing culturally responsible learning environments, and institutional effectiveness.

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

3. Colorado State University

Students in Colorado State University’s PhD in Higher Education program will gain real-world insight from scholar-practitioners and develop the skills and knowledge needed to become scholar-practitioners themselves.

The program prepares students for senior management positions in higher education administration, student services, enrollment management, academic support leadership, and housing and auxiliary services.

Colorado State  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

4. Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University – Chicago offers both Doctor of Education (EdD) and PhD programs in Higher Education. The EdD program prepares students for leadership roles within higher education while the PhD program prepares students to do research in the field or teach at the collegiate level. Both programs share many similar courses.

Concordia University Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Drexel University

The educational leadership and management doctoral program at Drexel University can be taken entirely online by part-time or full-time students.

There are no residency requirements and ten areas of concentration available, including one in Higher Education. Students in this concentration learn to effectively use innovative technology to serve their communities.

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

6. East Carolina University

East Carolina University’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program features a concentration in Higher Education.

In addition to the core courses required for the doctoral degree, students who choose this concentration will also take courses that include policy development and analysis, politics and power in education, and educational planning.

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

7. Fairleigh Dickinson University

The Doctor of Education in Higher Education program at Fairleigh Dickinson University has a diverse, comprehensive curriculum.

Popular courses cover topics like enrollment and retention, leadership, developing globally minded solutions to educational problems, applying data analytics, educational innovation, and creating a diverse and inclusive college culture. Financial aid is available to students who qualify.

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

8. Gwynedd Mercy University

The online accelerated executive Doctorate in Educational Leadership program at Gwynedd Mercy University is a 54 credit program that provides students with advanced skills and knowledge in many aspects of education.

These include education policy and regulation, faculty management and development, curriculum development, education research, and community outreach and relations.

Gwynedd Mercy University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

9. Indiana State University

Students in Indiana State University’s PhD in Educational Administration program can select the Leadership in Higher Education concentration to prepare for leadership roles within 2 year and 4 year colleges and universities.

The curriculum consists of coursework delivered in multiple formats and a 2 semester long, field-based internship to give students real-world experience.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Liberty University

Liberty University’s PhD in Higher Education Administration program takes about 3 years to finish, can be completed entirely online, and allows students to transfer half of the required credits from previously attended universities.

Required courses include policy analysis, college and university administration, teaching the college student, and assessment and accreditation.

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

11. Maryville University

Maryville University’s Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership program is a cohort-model program that allows students to complete all required coursework online.

This includes the residency, which can be completed face-to-face if students prefer. Students work on their coursework and dissertations simultaneously and can potentially graduate in 32 months.

The Maryville University of Saint Louis is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

12. Missouri Baptist University

Missouri Baptist University’s higher education leadership doctoral program utilizes the practitioner-scholar education model and offers competitive tuition.

All courses are built on the school’s foundational belief that education and faith are the world’s two greatest powers for change. The degree prepares students for jobs as deans, presidents, professors, and directors.

Missouri Baptist University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

13. Notre Dame of Maryland University

The PhD in Higher Education Leadership for Changing Populations program at Notre Dame of Maryland University helps prepare students to become leaders in schools and universities with culturally diverse populations.

Emphasis is placed on education policy and practice and effective organizational management. Tuition is affordable, and there’s no residency requirement.

Notre Dame of Maryland University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

14. Nova Southeastern University

Students enrolled in Nova Southeastern University’s higher education leadership doctoral program can earn their Doctor of Education without having to submit or defend a dissertation. All coursework can be completed online, but students must attend one mandatory summer institute as part of their curricula. Most students finish in 3 years.

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

15. Oregon State University

The Doctor of Education in Adult and Higher Education program at Oregon State University can be undertaken mostly online, but during the first two years of the program, students will be required to attend two face-to-face cohort meetings twice per term. These are held on the school’s downtown Portland campus.

Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

16. Regent University

Regent University’s PhD in Higher Education program assists students in gaining deeper understanding of the entire college administration field. Key courses in the curriculum focus on policy and professional practice and examine historical issues, contemporary issues, and finance in higher education, all presented from a Christian worldview.

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

17. Saint Cloud State University

The Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration program from Saint Cloud State University is 100% online and flexible. Students can choose between 8 week and 16 week course terms and can earn their degrees in 4 years. The curriculum is comprehensive and advanced, and the school doesn’t charge out-of-state tuition.

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

18. Saint Peter’s University

Students interested in higher education at Saint Peter’s University can enroll in the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program and select the Higher Education concentration.

The program requires 48 credits for completion. Notable courses include historical trends in higher education, grants, philanthropy and development, and qualitative research design.

Saint Peter’s University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

19. Texas Tech University

Students at Texas Tech University have two concentration options as part of the Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration program: Community College Administration or Higher Education College and University Administration.

Both concentrations can prepare students for careers in various higher education fields. On-campus orientation and on-campus summer sessions are required.

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

20. University of Florida

University of Florida’s higher education hybrid doctoral program can prepare students for senior administrative positions in both postsecondary-focused nonprofit organizations and higher education institutions.

It’s a cohort-model program that was one of the original Kellogg Foundation Community College Leadership programs in the nation. It’s designed specifically for working professionals.

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

21. University of Memphis

The higher education doctoral program at University of Memphis is specifically designed for professionals already working in higher education who are looking to move into mid- to senior-level management positions.

The program can be completed online and can also prepare students for board member jobs or jobs within higher education-related agencies.

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

22. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

University of Nebraska – Lincoln’s inter-departmental Doctor of Education in Educational Studies program allows students to choose from three concentrations.

Students who select the Educational Leadership and Higher Education concentration should receive the academic and professional development skills needed to become higher education leaders and administrators. There’s also a PhD option.

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

23. University of North Dakota

The Educational Practice and Leadership program at University of North Dakota features six unique concentrations, including the Higher Education concentration. The program requires 90 credit hours for completion and usually takes about 3 years to finish. Courses can be taken online, and graduate assistant funding is available to qualifying students.

The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

24. University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi’s Doctor of Education in Higher Education program has recently been redesigned to accommodate the needs of working professionals looking to move into more pertinent leadership roles. The program can be taken entirely online, and students don’t have to pass the GRE for admittance.

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

25. Wilmington University

Students in Wilmington University’s higher education leadership doctoral program will enjoy a flexible curriculum taught by highly qualified faculty.

They learn to become leaders who empower others, advocate for meaningful change and continuous improvement, and behave with integrity, fairness, inclusivity, and impeccable ethics. Law, policy, and governance are also taught.

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

Online Higher Education Doctoral Programs

Financial Aid Director meeting with staff

The EdD in Higher Education is a doctorate in education with higher education (postsecondary) as the chosen track or area of concentration. In this way, it differs from the type of EdD that you could earn for advancement in the field of K-12 education.

An EdD is known as the doctoral degree for practitioners working in the field of education. With an EdD in Higher Education, you may step into top administrative positions in colleges or universities, employee training positions in business and industry, or research and policy positions in education governance.

Some EdD programs in higher education focus exclusively on this area of concentration. Other programs feature higher education leadership as a specialization area within a more generalized EdD in educational and organizational leadership.

Some of the course topics an EdD program in higher education might cover include organizational management, law and ethics in higher education, and financial management in higher education.

These types of courses help provide the foundation for you to build a knowledge and skill base that may allow you to step into top managerial roles within the framework of higher education administration. In most cases, a doctoral degree consists of 60 credit hours beyond the masters degree.

Some institutions offer dual masters and doctorate degree programs. A dual program allows you to complete the 30 credit hours of a masters degree and the additional 60 hours of the doctoral program all in one continuous degree program.

Higher Education Careers & Salaries

online phd programs higher education

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 19.7 million students enrolled in US colleges and universities last semester. With such a large population of students, it’s understandable why colleges and universities need well-prepared administrators.

Postsecondary institutions must run efficiently to deliver top-notch instruction and handle the administrative tasks that serve the needs of their students.

Higher education administrators are responsible for facilitating students’ enrollment and progress through their degree programs toward completion and graduation. The administrative apparatus of any institution provides recordkeeping, evaluation, student services, and much more.

With an EdD in Higher Education, you may qualify to head up a department within a university administration or even become a college president. Top positions in higher education include president (chief executive officer), provost or academic dean, or dean of students.

Other administrative positions involve managing departments, such as financial aid or student affairs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , professionals with an EdD in Higher Education may qualify for the jobs listed below.

College President $155,230
Training and Development Manager $115,640
State College Academic Dean $102,790
Dean of Student Affairs $100,060
Administrative Services Manager $98,890
Financial Aid Director $97,500
Director of Admissions in Junior Colleges $90,480
Education Policy Analyst $75,260
Instructional Coordinator $66,970
Curriculum Specialist in Universities $62,950

Postsecondary administration is a growing area of employment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% growth rate for the next decade.

The typical career track for someone with an EdD in Higher Education involves working in the administration of public or private colleges, universities, junior colleges, community colleges, or postsecondary professional trade schools. But there are also opportunities for careers in business and industry.

You might use your EdD to become the managing director of an employee training program in a business or industry. Additionally, you might look for an opportunity to perform research and influence policy in an organization for postsecondary education governance.

Choosing an Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Doctorate in Higher Education student studying online

As you research the different accredited online colleges for education degrees offered by various universities for EdD in Higher Education, keeping an eye out for some specific factors may help you narrow down your choices.

Some of these factors may include:

  • University with regional accreditation
  • Professional accreditation for education degree programs
  • Intermittent on-campus residency requirements

If you’re interested in a specialized area of higher education, you may also want to consider these factors:

  • Reputation of the teaching faculty
  • Faculty members’ areas of research and publication
  • Opportunities for research collaboration with faculty members
  • Opportunities for specialization within the curriculum
  • Opportunities for practicum or internship experiences

It may also help to investigate these financial aspects associated with your choice of graduate school:

  • Cost of tuition and fees
  • In-state or out-of-state tuition
  • Opportunities for financial aid, grants, and scholarships

Pursuing your degree online may offer convenience and allow you to complete the degree while continuing to work and maintain any family responsibilities. You may want to consider these aspects of the online education environment:

  • Tech support availability for learning platforms
  • Scheduling and ease of navigation for online classes
  • Ability to communicate quickly and easily with faculty
  • Ease of online interaction with peers to discuss coursework and projects

With any doctorate degree program such as a higher education or online doctorate in special education , the degree program that is best for you is often the one that best fits your personal needs and goals.

Curriculum & Courses

Training and Development Manager guiding an employee

While you pursue the Doctor of Education in Higher Education, you’ll take numerous courses to prepare you for career advancement in this exciting field.

Similar to a masters program in higher education , here is an overview of courses that may appear in your program:

  • Leadership in Higher Education : You’ll learn theories and develop skills for leadership in higher education, including management, communication, and organizational strategies.
  • Law and Ethics in Higher Education : This course will investigate legal and ethical issues that impact students, faculty, staff, and administration in postsecondary educational institutions.
  • Assessment and Evaluation in Postsecondary Education : You’ll learn how to analyze data for the purpose of improving student outcomes in higher education.
  • Organizational Management: Explore varied approaches to structuring and managing a large organization, such as a college or university.
  • Strategic Planning in Higher Education : Study best practices in leadership for establishing shared visions and goals for long-range planning in higher education.
  • Postsecondary Education Governance : This course will explore leadership approaches to the management of external and internal governance frameworks in higher education.
  • Financial Management in Higher Education : You may learn strategies for fundraising, fiscal planning, fiscal responsibility, and integrity in postsecondary education.
  • Higher Education Academic Programs : This course will discuss current models for structuring and assessing degree programs in higher education.
  • Research Methods : You’ll learn principle elements of academic research and scholarly writing, building toward the dissertation or doctoral capstone.
  • Dissertation or Doctoral Capstone : Design and conduct independent research and report findings in a comprehensive dissertation document under the supervision of a dissertation advisor and committee. Many universities also offer the option of a capstone project in lieu of a dissertation.

As you search for the degree program that is right for you, you may keep in mind that some programs offer opportunities for specialization.

For example, you may want to specialize in leadership in higher education or in higher education administration. Your interests and career goals may affect your need for specialization.

Admissions Requirements

Doctorate in Higher Education student researching online

The EdD is a terminal degree for practitioners in the field of education. So, only the most qualified candidates are admitted to these degree programs. Here is a list of criteria that universities may be looking for:

  • Master’s degree in higher education or related field with minimum GPA
  • GRE or GMAT score, if required
  • Evidence of work experience in higher education
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample

Some universities may require minimum scores on the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). Many institutions, though, have eliminated these test requirements in recent years.

Some schools will often waive the requirement to submit test scores if you can show evidence of work experience in higher education.

Accreditation

Doctoral Programs in Higher Education

As you research online EdD in Higher Education degree programs, you may want to take note of their accreditation status. Your future advancement may depend, in part, on evidence of holding an EdD from an accredited university.

An institution that holds regional accreditation has been recognized from one of these organizations:

  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

You might also look for accreditation of the EdD degree program itself. The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) are two organizations that accredit degree programs in Education.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Doctoral Programs in Higher Education Financial Aid

You may be able to offset your investment in an EdD with increased future earnings. Additionally, you may be eligible to access funds through financial aid, grants, scholarships, or employer tuition programs.

To start the process, you may complete and submit your FAFSA form at the Federal Student Aid website. The William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program is also frequently accessed by graduate students.

Other forms of financial assistance may include financial aid from state or institution sources. In some cases, a work-study program may also provide financial assistance while you complete your degree.

Grants and scholarships are sometimes available for doctoral students who qualify. Foundations, community organizations, and alumni associations offer scholarships at various institutions as well.

If you’re already working in higher education, there’s a chance your employer may share the expense for you to get your EdD degree.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Higher Education Administration?

Education Policy Analysts in a meeting

With a PhD in Higher Education Administration, you may move into top positions in college or university administration. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you may become a college registrar, academic dean, college president, or dean of student affairs.

On the other hand, you may also go into research and teaching as a university professor in the field of higher education. There is a tremendous amount of overlap in regard to the careers pursued by professionals with PhD and EdD degrees.

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

Administrative Services Managers in a meeting

Your choice to pursue the EdD or the PhD in Higher Education may be dictated by your professional aspirations in the field. It depends on whether you seek career advancement in administration and leadership or in research and teaching.

An EdD in Higher Education is generally seen as the degree for a practitioner in the field. For professionals in postsecondary administration, leadership, and student affairs, the EdD is the terminal degree focusing on professional practice.

The PhD in Higher Education is known as the degree that focuses on research and preparation for teaching at the undergraduate and post-graduate levels.

While a PhD still often requires the completion of a dissertation, many EdD degrees now have the option of completing a capstone project in lieu of writing a dissertation. Your capstone requirement will depend on the program and university you ultimately choose.

How Much Does an Online Doctorate in Higher Education Cost?

Doctorate in Higher Education student working on his laptop

Tuition costs vary from one institution to another. A search of online EdD in Higher Education programs reveals a wide range of cost, from $420 to $1,785 per credit hour.

When calculating costs of various programs, you may want to include the extra expenses of books and fees. Some online degree programs waive the fees that are associated with face-to-face programs on campus, which can help lower the overall cost.

You may also consider the costs of the on-campus residency requirements that are included in many online EdD programs.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Higher Education Doctorate?

Higher Education Doctorate student studying in a cafe

On average, you may complete a Doctor of Education in Higher Education degree in 3 to 5 years. Your individual schedule, though, may dictate how long it takes for you to complete the degree program.

Some schools offer self-directed degree programs while others require that you move through the program with a cohort of 15 to 20 other students. Additionally, you’ll be working individually when you get to the dissertation or doctoral capstone phase, and some research may require longer timeframes.

Is a Higher Education Doctoral Program Worth It?

Education Policy Analysts meeting in an office

Yes, a Doctor of Education in Higher Education is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education, training, and library jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common higher education careers in this field include college president, registrar, provost or academic dean, director of student affairs, and director of employee training.

This degree may open many more doors of knowledge and opportunity for you over other degree programs such as a masters in education administration online . Aside from the opportunities to secure a job promotion, make a career change, or move up the administrative ladder, you may also experience profound intellectual growth as you pursue your EdD.

Getting Your Higher Education Doctorate Online

Higher Education Doctorate student studying at home

Deciding to work on your EdD is not a decision to be made in haste. You may decide to research numerous online degree programs, comparing factors that are most important for you.

Regional accreditation may be an important criterion to consider at the outset of your search. You may also want to explore and compare degree program costs if you’re working within a projected budget.

Still another factor you may consider is whether various degree programs offer specializations that will help you advance in the career that interests you. When you find the accredited EdD program that best meets your needs, you may be on your way to an exciting, educational journey!

online phd programs higher education

Doctor of Education : Doctor of Education

Johns Hopkins’ newly redesigned, global online Doctor of Education is at the forefront of education doctoral programs with the most innovative, challenging, and student-centered program of its kind.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the program continues to lead with the “EdD 2.0” offering, which is ideal for the busy education practitioner within any professional context. Our program recognizes that learning is both lifelong and occurs outside of formal schooling.

The vision of the Johns Hopkins EdD program is to prepare education-practitioners across the country and around the world to think critically about problems within their education environment and develop the insights and capacity to lead positive, sustained change.

Questions? Please reach out and we’ll be in touch soon.

Upcoming admissions events.

Have questions about our degree programs, the application, or financial aid and costs? Join us for an inside look at a graduate experience defined by innovation and driven by evidence-based research. Learn more about your area of interest or career path, meet some of our faculty, and connect to the Johns Hopkins School of Education community. Check out our admissions events and register for a virtual information session today.

Fall 2024 Semester Classes Begin

Core Faculty

Yolanda abel, edd.

Associate Professor

Affiliation

Advanced Studies in Education

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education

Camille Bryant, PhD

Joshua travis brown, phd.

Assistant Professor

Marcia Davis, PhD

Associate Professor (Research) Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of Schools Director of Research, Baltimore Education Research Consortium

Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership

Learning & Instruction, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Christine Eith, PhD

Keri m. guilbault, edd.

Associate Professor Faculty Lead, Gifted Education Programs

Counseling & Educational Studies

Gifted Education, Learning & Instruction

Ranjini Mahinda JohnBull, PhD

Learning & Instruction, Mind, Brain, & Teaching

Olivia Marcucci, PhD

Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Social Context of Education

James Diamond, PhD

Educational Technology, Learning & Instruction

Wendy Osefo, PhD

E. juliana pare-blagoev, edd, eric rice, phd.

Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Laura Flores Shaw, EdD

Assistant Professor Faculty Lead, Doctor of Education

Learning & Instruction

Henry M. Smith, EdD

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics

Program Overview

Exceptional education-practitioners will engage with an internationally renowned faculty to cultivate and practice curiosity, critical discourse, and perspective taking in a unique and rigorous course of study using the lenses of social justice, systems thinking, appropriate research methods, and empirical inquiry.

Coursework includes the latest research on the social determinants of education; mind, brain, and teaching; entrepreneurship; data and measurement; and technology. The redesigned program allows our doctoral students to customize their program by expanding their choice of electives so that they may focus more deeply on their professional interests that align with their problem of practice. Our online EdD prepares education practitioners to be transformational leaders within their professional settings.

The vision of the Johns Hopkins EdD program is to impact complex educational problems across the globe by preparing education practitioners to think critically and systemically about problems within their professional settings and develop deep understanding and insights to lead positive, sustained change within those settings.Our graduates create new areas of research, promote distribution and utilization of research findings in professional practice, and contribute to wider public discourse and policy.

Areas of Interest

The EdD program includes areas of interest. Applicants can indicate one or more areas of interest they think are related to a problem of practice and would like to explore. Current areas of interest are:

Creativity, Advanced Learning, and Twice Exceptionality

Digital age learning and educational technology, entrepreneurial leadership in education, mind, brain, and teaching, urban leadership.

Courses in this area of interest are designed to prepare candidates for leadership roles in advanced academics and gifted education with an emphasis on research and application of current best practices in the field. Based on the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) and Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Advanced Standards in Gifted Education Teacher Training, candidates will develop specialization in leading and evaluating programs and services for students who are creative, advanced, gifted, and twice exceptional. This area of interest is appropriate for candidates who: (a) want to deepen their expertise and prepare for leadership roles in their school, district, or state; (b) work in related nonprofit organizations, independent schools, or plan to develop their own educational enrichment programs; and (c) aspire to move into teacher preparation and research roles.

Available Courses:

  • Twice Exceptional Learners
  • Creativity in Education
  • Seminar I in Gifted and Talented Education
  • Leadership of Gifted Education and Talent Development Programs
  • Seminar II in Gifted Education and Talent Development Programs
  • Research in Gifted Education, Creativity, and Twice Exceptionalities

The Digital Age Learning and Educational Technology area of interest in the EdD program provides students opportunities to take courses in educational communication and technology. Select courses are available from the School of Education’s Digital Age Learning and Educational Technology (DALET) master’s degree program. This program prepares aspiring and practicing professionals and entrepreneurs in the field of educational communication and technology to design, develop, implement, and evaluate digital technology-supported tools and environments for learning across the lifespan in a variety of formal and informal settings, including pre-K–12, higher education, industry, government, and museums.

  • Computational Thinking for K-12 Educators
  • Explorations in Blended and Hybrid Learning
  • Foundations of Online Teaching and Learning
  • Fundamentals of Design Thinking
  • Gaming and Simulations for Learning
  • Instructional Design for Online Learning
  • Maker Education: Cultivating Curiosity, Creativity, and Problem Solving in Theory and Practice
  • Technology for Learner Variability
  • Technology Integration for the 21st Century Learner
  • Technology and the Science of Learning

Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education offers a unique opportunity for school and other educational organization leaders in both public and private educational environments. Students develop their knowledge, skills, and dispositions as they engage in leading efforts to build new venture opportunities in varied educational organizations. Through multidisciplinary lenses, educational leaders promote innovation in the paradigms, strategies, values and culture in school systems, social entrepreneurial ventures, and education companies. Each of the courses offers an opportunity to explore leadership theoretical frameworks, identify a Problem of Practice, and create a plan of action, through analysis and synthesis of presentations, readings, and discussion of the current state of multiple educational environments and the visions and challenges for the future.

  • Entrepreneurship in Education
  • Talent Management and Organizational Finance for Entrepreneurial Leaders
  • Data Driven Decision Making
  • Partnerships and Educational Organizations

Mind, Brain, and Teaching is designed for educators interested in exploring research from cognitive theories and neurosciences and its potential to inform the education field. Courses promote integration of diverse disciplines that investigate human learning and development. This area of interest builds upon basic and applied research from the fields of cognitive science, psychology and brain sciences, neurology, neuroscience, and education. It provides educators with knowledge of how emerging research in the learning sciences can inform teaching and learning. Students gain the knowledge and skills to interpret basic and applied research and apply relevant findings to educational practices and policies. This area of interest is designed to support the development of knowledge, insights, and competencies among students with two different levels of prior knowledge in the learning sciences: those who have had limited formal exposure to the learning sciences, and those who have a master’s degree or master’s certificate in the learning sciences.

  • Fundamentals of Cognitive Development
  • Neurobiology of Learning Differences
  • Cognitive Processes of Literacy and Numeracy
  • Special Topics in Brain Sciences

Cities are usually characterized by diverse populations with rich communities made up of many different races, classes, languages, and nationalities, and this dynamism is a chief strength of urban areas. However, urban schools typically serve populations characterized by high concentrations of poverty and therefore face difficult choices about how to allocate scarce resources. Urban Leadership is designed for educational professionals interested in exploring this dual nature of urban schools through a deep understanding of a Problem of Practice based in their unique context of professional practice. This area of interest prepares educational leaders to work in urban environments through a focus on topics such as building a strength-based understanding of the complexities of urban communities, engaging the latest research on urban educational programs, developing strategies for program improvement, and building partnerships with families, communities, and other organizations.

  • Approaches to Urban Education
  • Individuals in Urban Context
  • Organizations and Institutions
  • Partnerships and Community Organizing

Graduates from our EdD program work in diverse areas, including executive roles in educational organizations and start-ups, leadership in K-12 school districts and systems, consultancy in specialized education fields, and more.

  • Administrator
  • Superintendent
  • Instructional Designer
  • Chief Learning Officer

100% Online

Continue your full-time career and apply what you learn in real time as you earn your degree 100% online.

Legal Disclosure

State-specific information for online students.

Students should be aware of additional state-specific information for online programs . Johns Hopkins University is a member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate , which is the knowledge forum on the EdD. It has a membership of over 100 schools of education in the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand working collaboratively to improve professional preparation in education at the highest level.

Northeastern University Graduate Programs

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
  • Admissions statement: Please provide a personal statement that describes a significant issue or topic within an educational or learning context that you are interested in investigating. Why are these topics important to address? How have your previous work, life, or research experiences prepared you for investigating this topic or issue in the Northeastern doctoral program? (~1500 words)
  • 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

Joseph McNabb, PhD

Cherese Childers-McKee, 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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Education (Online), EdD

School of education.

To address the dramatically changing landscape of education in the 21st century, which includes new research on the science of learning, advances in technology, and the emergence of a for-profit education sector, the Johns Hopkins School of Education offers an innovative online Doctor of Education degree program. This EdD program is designed to prepare an exceptional corps of educational practitioner-scholars, both nationally and internationally, who can set a high standard for transformational leadership in education, apply evidence-based practices to improve educational outcomes, and meet the vast challenges associated with improving learning outcomes in both public and private educational environments.

Please note there are different program requirements for different cohorts. Those requirements can be found under the tabs labeled: Program Requirements 2023 & Forward, Program Requirements 2022 Cohort, Program Requirements 2021 Cohort, and Program Requirements 2013-2020 Cohorts.

For more information about the EdD program, please visit the  website . If you have any questions about the EdD program, please contact  [email protected] .

Admission Requirements

At minimum, applicants to the EdD program should hold a master’s degree from an accredited college or university. Previous degrees must document high academic achievement (a minimum GPA of 3.0) in an area of study closely associated with the objectives of the program. If the earned degree or credit is from an educational institution abroad, the candidate’s academic record must be evaluated by a credential evaluation agency before consideration for admission. Applicants must submit the online admission application form, application fee, official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, a curriculum vitae (résumé), a Problem of Practice Statement, online (asynchronous) interview, and two letters of recommendation signed by each recommender. These letters should include the following:

  • A professor with whom the applicant worked in their master's program who can speak to the applicant's competency to conduct rigorous, applied scholarly work, and
  • A colleague/supervisor from the applicant’s professional context/industry who can attest to the applicant's qualifications to pursue a doctorate, and the applicant’s impact on the recommender’s  professional practice.

International students must fulfill the general requirements for admission and complete additional requirements—see International Students Admission . 

Note: This program is not eligible for student visa sponsorship .

Students who enter the program will be required to successfully complete a series of pre-orientation modules prior to enrollment in the program. All students are expected to show competence in the content areas of these modules.

Please note that for the online EdD program, an offer of admission is for the specific cohort to which an application is submitted. Students may accept or decline the admission offer only; deferring to a future cohort is not an option.

Program Requirements Cohort 2023 and Forward

Program structure and requirements.

Program requirements include a minimum of 90 graduate credits. Students must enter the program with a master’s degree with 36 graduate-level credits, which will be transferred into the EdD program. If a student does not have the required 36 master’s credits, the student will be admitted on a conditional basis and must complete the additional graduate-level credits at a regionally accredited college or university (or its equivalent) by the final semester before expected degree conferral. Students with  post-master’s graduate credit  in related education content completed prior to admission to the EdD program may petition to transfer in an additional six (6) credits of equivalent coursework with appropriate documentation and with the approval of the EdD program director. Thus, students must complete between 48 and 54 credits at the doctoral level at JHU. The program includes the following required coursework components*:

For a full listing of academic standards and policies, please visit the website .   

Course List
Code Title Credits
Foundations of Education 15 credit hours
Understanding Social Problems3
Critical Theory3
Disciplinary Approaches to Education3
Multiple Perspectives on Learning and Teaching3
Multicultural Education3
Applied Research & Evaluation 12 credit hours
Socially Responsible Research3
Research Methods and Systematic Inquiry I3
Evaluation of Education Policies and Programs3
Research Methods and Systematic Inquiry II3
Areas of Interest/Electives 15 credit hours
Mind, Brain, and Teaching
Mind, Brain Science and Learning3
Fundamentals of Cognitive Development3
Neurobiology of Learning Differences3
Cognitive Processes of Literacy & Numeracy3
Special Topics in Brain Sciences3
Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education
Entrepreneurship in Education3
Partnerships and Educational Organizations3
Data-Driven Decision Making3
Talent Management & Organizational Finance for Entrepreneurial Leaders3
Leadership in Educational Organizations3
Urban Leadership
Leadership in Educational Organizations3
Approaches to Urban Education3
Individuals in Urban Contexts3
Organizations and Institutions3
Partnerships and Community Organizing3
Digital Age Learning and Educational Technology
Technology Integration for the 21st Century Learner3
Electives
Leadership for School and Educational Organization Redesign3
Power, Politics, and Policy in Education3
Research on Effective Professional Development3
Technologies and Creative Learning3
Doctoral Dossier Research12 credit hours
Doctoral Dossier Research I3
Doctoral Dossier Research II4
Doctoral Dossier Research III4
ED.883.XXX Doctoral Dossier Research IV 4

In addition to successfully completing all coursework requirements,  students admitted in 2023 and thereafter  must also complete a Doctoral Dossier consisting of three faculty-mentored research projects.

Problems of Practice and Doctoral Dossier

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP)—an area of concern they have observed within their professional context—that becomes the focus of the student's Doctoral Dossier, which consists of three main projects described below.

As part of our commitment to social justice, the EdD program does not privilege one form of communication over another. Thus, all components of the Doctoral Dossier can be communicated in a modality of the student’s choosing: video, oral, scholarly writing, or public-facing writing. Additionally, students can choose the type of scholarship project they will work on during years two and three of the program. Our Doctoral Dossier is based upon  Boyer’s Four Domains of Scholarship  (1990) and includes:

          RESEARCH PROJECT 1 :

Scholarship of Integration:  To begin their Doctoral Dossier process, all students will spend their first two semesters reviewing the research literature and using systems thinking to refine their Problem of Practice. The culmination of this process will be the Scholarship of Integration project, which is a synthesis of the literature reviewed that identifies and describes the underlying causes of and factors contributing to their chosen POP. This project is foundational to understanding the identified problem and determining what students choose to research in years two and three.

Example projects include :  A podcast, video series, manuscripts for publication in a professional or scholarly journal, lengthy presentation targeting policymakers. Within all project modalities, the factors contributing to the POP are discussed through a synthesis of the research literature.

 RESEARCH PROJECT 2 :

Following completion of the Scholarship of Integration project, students will  choose one of the following two options  for Research Project 2 :

Scholarship of Application:   Demonstrate the application of the research to practice.  The purpose of this project is to a) consider how the research perpetuates and/or disrupts oppression, b) critique relevant systems, structures, and institutions, and c) determine avenues to effectively disseminate evidence to a wider audience and stakeholder group.

Example projects include :  historical analysis of a topic, curriculum creation, community organization, autoethnography, instructional pedagogy, and others.  

Scholarship of Teaching:   Development and improvement of pedagogical practices.  Students examine teaching processes and assessments to improve practice.

Example projects include : autoethnography of one’s teaching, innovative teaching materials, curricula, development of new courses, or development of a new pedagogical framework.  

 RESEARCH PROJECT 3 :

Following successful completion of Research Project 2, students will choose one of the following projects and orally present a proposal for their third project to a panel of faculty:

The  scholarship option NOT chosen for Project 2 , or

Scholarship of Discovery:  Search for new knowledge. Students conduct evidence-based research that leads to knowledge creation.   

Example projects include :  investigating the effectiveness of a curriculum created during year 2 (Scholarship of Teaching), interviewing people related to a Problem of Practice whose voices are missing from the research literature; examining the perspective of LGBTQ+ teachers living in the southern United States using Photovoice, etc. This project may be provided in any modality to better reach the student’s intended audience.               

RESEARCH PROJECT 4:

During the final year, students will complete Research Project 3, write an  Executive Summary  that ties their three projects together, and write a  final reflection  on their doctoral journey. The Doctoral Dossier will be presented and assessed during the final Doctoral Dossier course. Additionally, students may choose to present their Doctoral Dossier work at a school-wide student conference.

Students are expected to complete the program coursework and independent research concurrently. This program is cohort-based, thus if students require a leave of absence for any reason, they will return in the appropriate course sequence with the next cohort the following year.

The following table below provides an overview of the program requirements for cohorts admitted in 2023 and later:

SOE EDD Program
Cohort Course Requirements Comprehensive Exam Applied Research
2023 and later No

 *Courses and course sequences are subject to change.

Program Requirements 2022 Cohort

Program requirements include a minimum of 90 graduate credits. Students must enter the program with a master’s degree with a minimum of 36 graduate-level credits, which will be transferred into the EdD program. If a student does not have the required 36 master’s credits, the student will be admitted on a conditional basis and must complete the additional graduate-level credits at an accredited college or university by the final semester before expected degree conferral. Students with  post-master’s graduate credit  in related education content completed prior to admission to the EdD program may petition to transfer in an additional 6 credits of equivalent coursework with appropriate documentation and with the approval of the EdD program director. Thus, students must complete between 48 and 54 credits at the doctoral level at JHU. The program includes the following required coursework components (subject to change):

Course List
Code Title Credits
Foundations of Education 12 credit hours
Multicultural Education3
Multiple Perspectives on Learning and Teaching3
Contemporary Approaches to Educational Problems3
Disciplinary Approaches to Education3
Applied Research & Evaluation9 credit hours
Research Methods and Systematic Inquiry I3
Research Methods and Systematic Inquiry II3
Evaluation of Education Policies and Programs3
Specialization12 credit hours
Mind, Brain, and Teaching
Fundamentals of Cognitive Development3
Neurobiology of Learning Differences3
Cognitive Processes of Literacy & Numeracy3
Special Topics in Brain Sciences3
Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education
Entrepreneurship in Education3
Partnerships and Educational Organizations3
Data-Driven Decision Making3
Talent Management & Organizational Finance for Entrepreneurial Leaders3
Urban Leadership
Approaches to Urban Education3
Individuals in Urban Contexts3
Organizations and Institutions3
Partnerships and Community Organizing3
Instructional Design for Online Teaching and Learning
Instructional Theory in Online Teaching and Learning3
Trends and Issues in Instructional Design, Message Design, and Online Learning3
Research on Online and Blended Teaching and Learning3
Evaluation of Digital Age Learning Environments3
Electives 12 credit hours
Leadership for School and Educational Organization Redesign3
Mind, Brain Science and Learning3
Power, Politics, and Policy in Education3
Leadership in Educational Organizations3
Research on Effective Professional Development3
Technologies and Creative Learning3
Dissertation Research9 credit hours
Dissertation Research 1 - 9

Students who extend their program of study may be required to enroll in additional doctoral research credits.

Additionally, students admitted in 2022 must also pass an oral comprehensive examination, demonstrating attainment of competencies, and complete a Dossier Style Dissertation research project. 

Problems of Practice and Dossier Style Dissertation 

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP)—an area of concern they have observed within their professional context. This POP becomes the focus of the student's Dossier Style Dissertation, which is embedded within the EdD program coursework. The Dossier Style Dissertation includes two pathways: 1) Applied Project or 2) Empirical Project Deeper Dive.

Applied Project:

Year 1 :  During the first year in the program, students synthesize research literature to understand factors relevant to the POP from a broader systems perspective.

Year 2 : Students conduct an empirical study examining their POP within their professional context. Students then defend their proposal for an applied project based on their findings as well as a brief literature review that supports their rationale and justification for their proposed applied project.

Year 3 : Students create and defend their final applied project to their Doctoral Committee.

Empirical Project Deep Dive:

Year 1 : During the first year in the program, students synthesize research literature to understand factors relevant to the POP from a broader systems perspective.

Year 2 : Students design a more robust empirical study to more deeply examine their POP within their professional context. Students orally present their proposed design to their Doctoral Committee.

Year 3 : Students analyze and write up their data and orally defend their findings to their Doctoral Committee.

Although somewhat different from a traditional dissertation in its completion and focus, students are nevertheless expected to demonstrate mastery of the relevant literature, to obtain extant and/or collect additional data, and to interpret the results in light of previous studies.

All students will also demonstrate mastery of first- and second-year competencies through an oral comprehensive assessment. 

Typically, we expect students to complete three years of coursework and independent research concurrently. Some students may need more than three years to complete their research, in which case they will be required to enroll in at least one credit hour per semester after completion of the required 90 credit hours.

The following table below provides an overview of the program requirements for the 2022 cohort:

SOE EDD Program
Cohort Course Requirements Comprehensive Exam Applied Research
2022
1) Applied Project OR 2) Empirical Project Deep Dive

Program Requirements 2021 Cohort

 Additionally, students admitted in 2021 must also pass an oral comprehensive examination, demonstrating attainment of competencies, and complete either a Dossier Style Dissertation or Applied Dissertation research project. For information regarding the Applied Dissertation, please see the 2013-2020 Cohorts tab.  

The following table below provides an overview of the program requirements for the 2021 cohort:

SOE EDD Program
Cohort Course Requirements Comprehensive Exam Applied Research
2021 Yes (Summer of Year 2)
3) Applied Project, OR 4) Empirical Project Deep Dive
OR

Program Requirements 2013-2020 Cohorts

 Additionally, students admitted in cohorts 2013-2021 must also pass an oral comprehensive examination, demonstrating attainment of competencies, and complete an Applied Dissertation or Dossier Style Dissertation research project. For information regarding the Dossier Style Dissertation requirements, please see the 2021 Cohort tab.  Information regarding the Applied Dissertation is provided below.

Problems of Practice and Applied Dissertation 

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP)—an area of concern they have observed within their professional context. This POP becomes the focus of the student's Applied Dissertation research. The Applied Dissertation is embedded within the EdD program coursework, which provides students with a unique opportunity to examine an issue important to the organization in which they are employed.

During the first year in the program, students examine their articulated POP to identify underlying causes and associated factors. During the second year of the program, students develop a potential solution, such as an intervention or policy change, and a plan to study the implementation of this intervention as well as proximal outcomes. Students will demonstrate mastery of first- and second-year competencies through written and oral comprehensive assessments, which will serve as indicators of readiness for conducting their applied research. Students will then evaluate the effectiveness of this solution as their Applied Dissertation (Year 3).

Although somewhat different from a traditional dissertation in its completion and focus, students are nevertheless expected to demonstrate mastery of the relevant literature, to obtain extant and/or collect additional data, and to interpret the results in light of previous studies. The dissertation will be presented at a final oral defense before the student’s Dissertation Advisory Committee.

Typically, students will complete three years of coursework and independent research concurrently. It is possible that some students may need more than three years to complete their research, in which case they will be required to enroll in at least one credit hour per semester after completion of the required 90 credit hours.

The following table below provides an overview of the program requirements for the 2013-2020 cohorts:

SOE EDD Program
Cohort Course Requirements Comprehensive Exam Applied Research
2013-2020 Yes (Summer of Year 2)

Learning Outcomes

Program goals.

Upon successful completion of the EdD, we expect that graduates will:

  • Participate as a self-reflexive, social justice-oriented learner within diverse educational or learning communities.
  • Analyze and critique educational practice and research from a social justice and systems perspective.
  • Apply relevant methodologies to address critical challenges in education.
  • Demonstrate a curiosity for, and a systematic approach to, at least one major topic of study within education resulting in an emerging expertise.
  • Integrate research and practice-based knowledge to develop research-informed decisions and opinions about educational experiences, processes, policies, and institutions.
  • Communicate effectively to diverse audiences about educational research, experiences, processes, policies, and institutions.
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Higher Education Leadership Ph.D. (Hybrid)

Build the advanced knowledge and skills to pursue a career in higher education leadership by earning your degree with CSU Online.

Online Ph.D. in higher education from CSU

Develop the competencies you need to successfully and ethically lead higher education institutions with a Ph.D. in higher education leadership. Send a clear message to your current employer that you are committed to the mission of your institution, and gain skills that can be applied immediately to the challenges you face as a professional through a program that:

  • Instills and reinforces a commitment to crucial engagement of diversity and equity by addressing issues of privilege and oppression.
  • Develops research knowledge and skills that enable students to become scholar-practitioners and expand their knowledge about higher education organizations, practice, and outcomes.
  • Cultivates the key competencies needed to be a successful and ethical higher education leader and change agent.

Prepare to advance as an administrative leader

With a specific focus on universities and colleges, this program provides the practical knowledge needed to advance your administrative career in higher education. Your studies will prepare you to take on leadership roles in:

  • Enrollment management
  • Student services
  • Higher education administration
  • Academic support leadership
  • Housing and auxiliary services

Join a program that fosters success

CSU’s Ph.D. in educational leadership sets itself apart with a 95% retention rate of its students, much higher than the national average of 50%. Here are a few reasons why:

  • The program’s online format allows you to obtain a doctorate while remaining employed full time.
  • With a cohort structure, the same group of students begins, proceeds through, and completes the program together. This fosters support and allows you to network with others across the country who hold similar positions in higher education institutions.
  • Faculty members provide frequent and meaningful opportunities for one-on-one interactions through video conferencing, online discussions, email, and text.

John Carmichael, a graduate of the program, had this to say:

“You hear stories of people who get lost in Ph.D. programs and a decade goes by and they’re still working on their dissertation or taking another course. That has not been at all the experience for me, or I think any of the other people in this program.”

Gain real-world insight from scholar-practitioners

Learn from active scholars who incorporate their experience as administrators and teachers into coursework. The faculty in this online Ph.D. in higher education are skilled educators with industry expertise and extensive careers in higher education, including former vice presidents and college presidents.

Health and Human Science Matters Podcast

Find out how CSU’s research is making an impact by tuning into the Health and Human Science Matters Podcast , a collection of lively, engaging conversations with members of the college community.

The higher education leadership program equips student affairs administrators and other administrative personnel employed full time at four-year colleges and research universities to advance their careers in administrative leadership positions. You will become a more accomplished leader with the practical knowledge to lead with a commitment to diversity, access, institutional mission, quality, and educational outcomes.

Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue high-level leadership positions in these areas of higher education:

  • Student Services
  • Higher Education Administration
  • Enrollment Management
  • Housing and Auxiliary Services
  • Academic Support Leadership

The higher education leadership Ph.D. is a distance-delivered program with some unique characteristics. Much of your student work is accomplished online during two weekly sessions of 2.5 hours total using video conferencing. These online interactions, plus face-to-face meetings on the CSU Fort Collins campus once per year, help create a cohesive cohort of students.

The next on-campus meeting dates for the HEL program will be:

July 17-21, 2023

The student-student relationship adds a personal dimension to the small group activities that are an integral part of the program. The student-faculty relationship is enhanced by the small cohort size (10-12 students), the fact that faculty are experienced educators, and the predominate use of papers rather than exams for learning and grading.

The program is very selective and looks for a diverse group of students. Applicants must have experience working in higher education, but that experience can come from a college or university anywhere in the country — or even the world. If you have worked as a student services administrator, or if you are interested in moving toward higher administration in any area of a college or university, this may be the program for you.

Susana Muñoz

Susana Muñoz

Currently program co-chair for the Higher Education Leadership Ph.D. program at Colorado State University, Dr. Susana Muñoz is an assistant professor of higher education in the School of Education at CSU. Before accepting a faculty role at CSU, Dr. Muñoz served as a faculty member at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in the administrative leadership department. Her scholarly interests center on the experiences of underserved populations in higher education. Specifically, she focuses her research on issues of access, equity, and college persistence for undocumented Latina/o students, while employing perspectives such as Latino critical race theory, Chicana feminist epistemology, and college persistence theory to identify and deconstruct issues of power and inequities as experienced by these populations.

Sharon Anderson

Sharon Anderson

Currently a professor in CSU's School of Education, Dr. Sharon Anderson previously served as director of graduate programs from 2006-2009. She holds a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from the University of Denver, and has been a licensed psychologist in the state of Colorado since 1995. Dr. Anderson has been with Colorado State University since 1994 where her research interests include counseling, career development, counseling for justice, and higher education leadership.

Ryan P. Barone

Ryan P. Barone

Ryan P. Barone, Ph.D., is the Assistant Vice President for Student Success at Colorado State University reporting dually to Academic and Student Affairs, where he is also an affiliated faculty member in the Student Affairs in Higher Education and Higher Education Leadership graduate programs. Dr. Barone received his B.S. from SUNY Fredonia, his M.S. from Colorado State University, and his Ph.D. from the University of Denver in Higher Education with a specialization in Diversity and Higher Learning. He has published or co-published book chapters, peer-reviewed journal articles, and presented sessions and delivered keynote addresses at regional and national conferences on topics related to social justice, equity in community colleges, interpersonal violence prevention, and closing achievement gaps.

Kari Dockendorff

Kari Dockendorff

They/Them/Theirs

Dr. Kari Dockendorff earned their Ph.D. in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of Utah, where they also completed a Graduate Certificate in Gender Studies. Kari’s research focuses on trans* students in higher education by specifically studying interactions with staff and the institutional environment which all students must navigate. Their research is also concerned with how gender and sexuality are measured and exploring new strategies for disrupting binary measures of gender.

Susan C. Faircloth

Susan C. Faircloth

She/Her/Hers

Dr. Susan C. Faircloth (an enrolled member of the Coharie Tribe of North Carolina) is a professor and Director of the School of Education at CSU. She serves as a senior associate editor of the American Journal of Education, a member of the editorial board of the Journal of American Indian Education, and Chair of the technical review panel for the National Indian Education Study conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics, the Office of Indian Education, and the Educational Testing Service. Additionally, she serves on the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Minority Fellowship Selection Committee. Faircloth is a former Fulbright Senior Scholar to New Zealand, Ford Foundation Postdoctoral scholar with the Civil Rights Project/Proyecto Derechos Civiles at the University of California Los Angeles, research Fellow with the American Indian/Alaska Native Head Start Research Center at the University of Colorado Denver, and a recent William C. Friday Fellow for Human Relations.

Alex C. Lange

Alex C. Lange

Dr. Alex C. Lange is a coordinator and assistant professor of higher education in the School of Education at CSU. Dr. Lange aims to help higher education professionals and researchers live up to their institutions' missions of quality, inclusiveness, and transformation for all members of campus communities. They study students minoritized by race, gender, sexuality, and ability, as well as the social forces that marginalize them during college. Their largest, ongoing project is a national, longitudinal study of transgender college students' journeys through undergraduate education. This work examines how transgender students enter into, develop within, and exit from higher education. Some of Dr. Lange's recent projects and collaborations include how LGBTQ+ students thrive in college, considerations for critical approaches to college student development, and the in/visibility of race and racism in LGBTQ higher education scholarship.

“When I think about how I will use this degree, it will be about creating humanizing experiences and liberatory spaces where students can show up as their full, authentic selves and thrive in higher education. What really spoke to me about the program here at CSU was the faculty and their commitment to equity and justice. They really center our humanity in this experience.”

“The more I got involved on campus and in the community, the more I realized that my real passion was for education. I think this program has empowered me to re-envision how I think about my own possibilities. I’m learning theories and immediately putting them into practice. That has really enriched my learning experience and challenged my thinking in a variety of ways.”

"There’s value in seeing that I can get my Ph.D. while I still have a full-time job. One reason I chose this CSU program is that it provides synchronous learning, and everybody would be online together. We’ve been a cohort together since the very beginning, and there’s a lot of power in that.”

Higher Education Leadership Ph.D. Student Panel - Fall 2022

In this panel, hosted by HEL student Eduardo Díaz, current HEL Ph.D. students discuss the intricacies of the program, why they chose it, how students engage with faculty in and outside of class, program structure, and more.

As a student in CSU’s distance Ph.D. in higher education leadership, you will receive a doctoral degree from a regionally accredited, renowned research institution while taking courses at times and locations that fit your busy life. Additionally, you can expect:

  • A Leading Program in Distance Delivery: The success of our Ph.D. distance delivery method, designed for mid-level higher education professionals wishing to maintain full-time employment, can be seen in our 95% retention rate, compared to the 50% national average.
  • Instruction from Expert Faculty: Learn from active scholars who incorporate their experience as administrators and teachers into coursework. Our faculty are skilled educators with industry expertise and extensive careers in higher education, including former vice presidents and college presidents. Gain practical day-to-day knowledge of what it takes to lead higher education institutions successfully and ethically.
  • A Cohort Model: The same group of students goes through the program together, offering a cohesive support structure and built-in professional network.
  • A Quality Learning Experience: Due to the highly competitive nature of this program, we only accept a small percentage of students each semester. To achieve our goal of ensuring a superior learning experience with a diverse group of students, we limit cohort size to 10-12 students.
  • Individualized Faculty-Student Engagement: In addition to the in-person class sessions, our program provides opportunities for frequent and meaningful one-on-one interactions with faculty through a variety of mediums, including: video conferencing, online discussions, email, text, and more.
  • A Focus on Universities and Colleges: Advance your career in a higher education administrative leadership position through our university- and college-focused curriculum. Our program prepares leaders in areas such as enrollment management, student services, higher education administration, academic support leadership, housing and auxiliary services, and more.

Learn more about CSU's rankings and accolades.

Requirements

  • A minimum of 30 credits of higher education administrative curriculum
  • A minimum of 30 credits of research
  • Comprehensive exams, both written and oral
  • Juried publication submission or presentation
  • Dissertation

With an emphasis on applied knowledge and a specific focus on universities and colleges, you learn from renowned faculty and experienced higher education administration professionals.

Coursework:

  • Provides a comprehensive doctoral curriculum that develops the competencies needed to successfully and ethically lead higher education institutions
  • Develops research knowledge and skills to enable practitioners and administrators to become scholars/practitioners who expand the knowledge base related to higher education organizations, practice, and outcomes
  • Instills and/or reinforces a commitment to the crucial engagement of diversity
  • Explores ways to strengthen a commitment to access, learning, institutional mission, quality, and educational outcomes
  • Orientation to the program and doctoral studies on campus in Fort Collins, CO in the summer semester.
  • EDHE 771 – Higher Education Administration (3 cr.)
  • EDRM 702 – Foundations of Educational Research (3 cr.)
  • EDUC 709 – Leadership Development (3 cr.)
  • EDUC 710 – Higher Education Finance (3 cr.)
  • EDHE 773 – Student Development in a Collegiate Context (3 cr.)
  • EDCL 701 – Higher Education Law (3 cr.)
  • EDRM 704 – Qualitative Research (3 cr.)
  • EDRM 705 – Qualitative Data Analysis (3 cr.)
  • EDUC 675 – Analyzing Education Literature (3 cr.)
  • EDUC 725 – Professionalism in Education and Leadership (3 cr.) - on campus in Fort Collins, CO

Additional research course, if required: EDRM 606 – Principles: Quantitative Data Analysis (3 cr.).

  • EDOD 769 – Theory and Practice of Change (3 cr.)
  • EDUC 715 – Critical Theory, Educational Equity and Praxis (3 cr.)
  • EDRM 700 – Quantitative Research Methods (3 cr.)
  • EDRM 707 – Quantitative Research Methods/Analysis (3 cr.)
  • EDUC 714 – Education Policy Analysis (3 cr.) - on campus in Fort Collins, CO
  • EDCL 750 – Simulated Presidential Cabinet I (3 cr.) - on campus in Fort Collins, CO
  • EDRM 792B – Seminar - Proposal Development (1-3 cr.)
  • EDHE 799 – Dissertation (3 cr.)

You may work on your dissertation in the Fall and Spring as required. Work can continue in Summer and Fall if you are not finished.

Application Deadlines

Students may be admitted for the summer semester. Fall and spring admission is not available.

Summer semester December 1

Start your application online and upload materials directly into the online system. You can save your progress and return any time.

1 Review Admission Requirements

The higher education leadership (Ph.D.) degree requires applicants to have the following:

  • Master's degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution or a CSU-recognized international institution is required
  • A minimum of two years of post-master’s professional work experience related to higher education, prior to applying to the program, is required for admission
  • A minimum 3.00 GPA from master's level coursework is required
  • GRE scores are not required

Meeting the minimum requirements does not ensure admission. Admission will be primarily guided by the evaluation of each applicant's fit with the program mission and within the context of developing each incoming cohort's teaching and learning community, based on application materials (i.e., personal statement, professional experiences, recommendation letters, academic transcripts, and interviews with finalists.)

2 Prepare Application Materials

Prepare the following materials and upload them when you apply online:

Statement of purpose: Write a two- to three-page statement of purpose regarding your personal and professional interests and goals in higher education. Your statement should address the following questions:

  • What personal and professional factors or experiences have led you to seek a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership at Colorado State University?
  • How will this Ph.D. program advance your professional aspirations and personal goals? What do you hope to get out of your program experience?
  • How have your experiences influenced your views of equity and justice in higher education?
  • What are your research interests? How are they connected to principles of equity and justice? How might your interests be compatible with our Higher Education Leadership and School of Education faculty?

Your statement should be double-spaced, with 1-inch margins, and written in 11- or 12-point Times New Roman font. If your statement goes beyond the three-page limit, the admissions committee will only read the first three pages.

Resume or vita: Please include:

  • Record of collegiate work, including names of institutions, periods of attendance, and degrees earned.
  • Record of all professional employment including dates of service (including military).
  • List of publications, exhibitions, awards, or other recognitions.
  • List of service activities, including professional, community, and charitable activities.

Three letters of recommendation : Recommenders should be able to speak to your current leadership ability and your ability to complete doctoral work, research and writing, and potential as a research scholar and/or scholar-practitioner. You will provide information about your recommenders in the online application. CSU will contact them with instructions and a link to a secure form they will submit on your behalf.

3 Complete Online Application

Complete the online graduate application and pay the nonrefundable application processing fee (payable online). As soon as you have completed the required information, please submit your application. Your application will not be reviewed until it is complete and all required materials have been received.

  • Select "Education and Human Resource Studies / Higher Education Leadership (Ph.D). - Distance" when choosing the program of study.

4 Request Transcripts

Request one official transcript of all collegiate work completed from all institutions attended. Transcripts from Colorado State University are not required. Transcripts must be received directly from the originating institution to be considered official.

Please Note: Students may be unconditionally admitted and registered in their first semester of courses with an unofficial transcript. Official transcripts must be submitted, prior to or during your first semester, before you can register for your second semester of graduate work. Failure to meet this condition will result in your dismissal from the Graduate School.

Electronic (preferred): Digital Transcripts must be submitted by the originating institution using a secure service such as parchment, eScrip-Safe, the National Student Clearinghouse, or e-Quals. Transcripts received via emails are considered unofficial. Use institution code 4075 for Colorado State University or [email protected] if the secure service requires an email address.

Mail (if necessary) Graduate Admissions Colorado State University – Office of Admissions 1062 Campus Delivery Fort Collins, CO 80523-1062

5 Interviews and Writing Sample

  • The admission committee may request an interview. Interviews are by invitation only and will be conducted using video conference technology.
  • Faculty will select applicants to advance to the interview state around mid-January.
  • If invited to interview, applicants will be required to submit a research or scholarly paper. They will have two weeks to write and electronically submit the paper. This requirement is intended to provide the faculty with critical information on the applicants' ability to frame, research/engage in inquiry, analyze, and offer a persuasive and cohesive written account on a current higher education issue of each applicant's choosing.

Check Your Application Status

Selection Timeline Application review begins after the December 1 deadline. Admit decisions will be made by mid-May. Summer courses will begin in mid-July.

For International Applicants

Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants from countries or United States territories where there are official languages other than (or in addition to) English. This includes the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico.

Learn more about English language proficiency requirements .

We love learning about your goals and answering any questions you have.

online phd programs higher education

Program Details

  • Master's degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution

Application Dates

Request information.

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Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education Programs of 2024 Badge

Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education Programs of 2024

Written by Intelligent.com Higher Education Team

Updated: February 24, 2024

Postsecondary administrators help colleges and universities operate smoothly while ensuring that students succeed in their studies. With an online doctorate in higher education, you can pursue a rewarding career in postsecondary education and help students, teachers, and other administrators experience long-term success.

Compare School Options

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Why This Matters

37% of postsecondary administrator jobs require a doctoral degree, 7,700 more postsecondary administrators needed by 2032, potential to earn over $190,000, our research.

This list features some of the best online doctorate in higher education degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary education.

We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology .

Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online doctorate in higher education degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.

  • 51 hours to write this article
  • 78 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 84 education programs we compared

The Top 50 Online Doctorate in Higher Education Programs

Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education Programs Badge

intelligent score 98.66

#2 Best Colleges #4 The Edvocate #14 Online College Plan

School Information

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Graduation Rate: 47%

Admission Rate: 76%

Urbanicity: Suburban

School Size: Medium

Delivery Format Online

Required Credits to Graduate 55

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,505

accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-541-6682

intelligent score 96.49

#1 The Best Schools #6 Best Colleges #7 The Edvocate #8 Online College Plan #11 Learn

Berrien Springs, MI

Graduation Rate: 55%

Admission Rate: 49%

Urbanicity: Town

School Size: Small

Required Credits to Graduate 60-61

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,471

accreditation Higher Learning Commission

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 269-471-7771

intelligent score 95.53

#1 Learn #4 The Best Schools #6 Online College Plan #6 The Edvocate #8 Best Colleges

Saint Louis, MO

Graduation Rate: 57%

Admission Rate: 95%

Required Credits to Graduate 48

Estimated Cost per Credit $922

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 888-266-0574

intelligent score 95.12

#3 The Best Schools #4 Learn #5 Best Colleges

Gwynedd Valley, PA

Graduation Rate: 59%

Admission Rate: 88%

Required Credits to Graduate 54

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,076

accreditation Middle States Commission on Higher Education

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 844-707-9064

intelligent score 94.36

#4 Best Colleges #8 Learn

River Forest, IL

Graduation Rate: 50%

Admission Rate: 79%

Required Credits to Graduate 61-67

Estimated Cost per Credit $753

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 708-340-7664

intelligent score 94.17

#1 Online College Plan #1 The Edvocate #7 Learn #8 The Best Schools

Gainesville, FL

Graduation Rate: 88%

Admission Rate: 31%

Urbanicity: City

School Size: Large

Required Credits to Graduate 90

Estimated Cost per Credit Resident: $518 Non-Resident: $656

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 352-392-0726

intelligent score 93.92

#5 Learn #6 The Best Schools #7 Online College Plan #8 The Edvocate #11 Successful Student

Virginia Beach, VA

Graduation Rate: 30%

Admission Rate: 50%

Required Credits to Graduate 67

Estimated Cost per Credit $800

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 757-352-4127

intelligent score 92.29

#2 Online College Plan #2 The Best Schools #3 The Edvocate

Fort Collins, CO

Graduation Rate: 72%

Admission Rate: 84%

Required Credits to Graduate 60

Estimated Cost per Credit $945

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 970-491-5288

intelligent score 92.14

#5 The Edvocate #6 Learn #9 Online College Plan #9 The Best Schools #14 Successful Student

Memphis, TN

Admission Rate: 85%

Estimated Cost per Credit $606

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 901-678-2000

intelligent score 90.98

#7 Best Colleges #12 Online College Plan

Terre Haute, IN

Graduation Rate: 44%

Admission Rate: 92%

Required Credits to Graduate 72

Estimated Cost per Credit Resident: $438 Non-Resident: $861

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 812-237-3005

intelligent score 90.4

Jersey City, NJ

Estimated Cost per Credit $795

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 888-772-9933

intelligent score 88.31

Lincoln, NE

Graduation Rate: 66%

Admission Rate: 78%

Delivery Format Online, Hybrid

Required Credits to Graduate 63

Estimated Cost per Credit Resident: $357 Non-Resident: $750

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 402-472-3726

intelligent score 87.46

Graduation Rate: 52%

Admission Rate: 65%

Required Credits to Graduate 42

Estimated Cost per Credit $769

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 314-434-1115

intelligent score 87.33

Tuscaloosa, AL

Graduation Rate: 68%

Admission Rate: 80%

Required Credits to Graduate 66

Estimated Cost per Credit $740

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-467-0227

intelligent score 86.4

Dahlonega, GA

Graduation Rate: 37%

Admission Rate: 81%

Estimated Cost per Credit $303

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 706-864-1543

intelligent score 86.02

Lynchburg, VA

Graduation Rate: 34%

Estimated Cost per Credit $595 - $650

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-424-9595

intelligent score 83.65

Hattiesburg, MS

Admission Rate: 96%

Estimated Cost per Credit $519

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 601-266-5518

intelligent score 83.39

University, MS

Graduation Rate: 63%

Estimated Cost per Credit $514

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 662-915-7211

intelligent score 81.47

Lubbock, TX

Graduation Rate: 62%

Admission Rate: 70%

Estimated Cost per Credit Resident: $313 Non-Resident: $733

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 806-742-2011

intelligent score 80.63

Graduation Rate: 61%

Admission Rate: 87%

Required Credits to Graduate 91

Estimated Cost per Credit Resident: $438 Non-Resident: $656

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 765-285-8488

intelligent score 80.25

Grand Forks, ND

Estimated Cost per Credit $547

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 701-777-3000

intelligent score 80.05

Graduation Rate: 64%

Estimated Cost per Credit $625

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 520-621-3471

intelligent score 79.99

Carrollton, GA

Estimated Cost per Credit $241

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 678-839-5000

intelligent score 79.29

Baltimore, MD

Admission Rate: 62%

Required Credits to Graduate 45

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 877-383-6704

intelligent score 78.62

Columbus, GA

Graduation Rate: 42%

Estimated Cost per Credit $450

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 706-507-8800

intelligent score 77.49

Philadelphia, PA

Admission Rate: 77%

Required Credits to Graduate 60.5-61.5

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,396

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-237-3935

intelligent score 77.32

New Castle, DE

Graduation Rate: 45%

Admission Rate: 100%

Required Credits to Graduate 51

Estimated Cost per Credit $696

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 215-662-5606

intelligent score 76.7

Graduation Rate: 74%

Estimated Cost per Credit $304

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 828-262-2130

intelligent score 76.43

Graduation Rate: 76%

Admission Rate: 73%

Estimated Cost per Credit $990

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 309-676-7611

Discover More Options

What you should know about this degree.

When researching your degree options, you may be considering the differences between a master’s degree and a doctorate degree. It’s important to keep in mind that while both degrees can prepare you for a successful career in this field, a doctorate degree is more research-based and helps you develop particularly strong analytical skills.

Regardless of the program you choose to enroll yourself in, it’s vital that you choose a school that’s accredited by an approved organization. You can check a school’s accreditation status by visiting the Departent of Education’s accreditation database .

After you obtain your doctorate, there are several professions that you’ll be qualified to enter. That includes college president, provost, academic dean, and professor.

While further licensing and certification isn’t typically required in these professions, you will most likely need to pass a criminal background check prior to working in a school setting.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching online doctorate in higher education programs:

  • How long does it take to complete this online degree? The timeline for obtaining a doctorate in higher education online depends on your schedule and level of commitment to completing the program quickly. While some are able to finish and obtain their degree in about two years, most students take between six and eight years to complete doctorate programs.
  • Am I eligible for this program? While every school has different prerequisites, most doctorate programs in higher learning require students to have a degree in a similar field of study, such as education.

As you research programs that interest you, make sure to keep track of important application information, including special essays you may need to submit and application deadlines. If you need assistance paying for your degree, also be sure to keep track of deadlines for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities.

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Home / Online Doctorate Degree Programs / Online Doctor of Education (EdD) — Higher Education Leadership

Online Doctor of Education (EdD) — Higher Education Leadership Program Online Doctor of Education (EdD) — Higher Education Leadership Program Online Doctor of Education (EdD) — Higher Education Leadership Program

Take your next brave step.

Receive information about the benefits of our online programs, the courses you'll take, and what you need to apply.

Great leaders don’t accept the status quo. They accept a challenge.

How do you improve delivery and efficacy in higher learning? How can you better prepare students for the workforce? How can you adapt educational settings to emerging technology and modern faculty-administration dynamics? Answering today’s big questions in higher education takes reflective, future-focused leadership. Maryville University’s online Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership program can provide you with the leadership abilities and perspective to meet the challenges of today — and tomorrow .

Explore higher education-focused leadership theory and develop the expertise to apply it in real-world situations. Build a contemporary understanding of administrative relationships and the student experience. Gain actionable insight into higher-ed governance, policy and financing to help you effect institutional change. Pursue your online Doctor of Education at Maryville and learn to impact higher education on a sweeping scale in ways that matter most.

View our program guide for more information.

Take Your Next Brave Step

Receive information about the benefits of our programs, the courses you'll take, and what you need to apply.

online phd programs higher education

Access coursework  100% online  with no campus visits required.

online phd programs higher education

Attend residency  on campus or virtually .

online phd programs higher education

Complete your  courses and dissertation simultaneously .

online phd programs higher education

Receive  personal mentorship  from scholar-practitioner faculty.

online phd programs higher education

Benefit from the added support of our  cohort learning model .

online phd programs higher education

Graduate in as few as  32 months .

Why choose Maryville for your online EdD program?

Our online EdD program offers unique benefits.

Our dissertation is different

Most doctoral programs conclude with a dissertation, but we believe your dissertation should be more than just a paper. It should inform your research, drive your leadership focus and keep your writing and thinking sharp throughout the doctoral program. Our approach allows you to apply valuable knowledge as you learn it.

Our focus is different

The online EdD program is more than a doctorate in education — it’s an innovative program that will provide you with a doctorate in higher education leadership You’ll focus squarely on impacting higher education at the institutional level, helping institutions grow in the face of a fluctuating economy, changing technology, increased competition and an influx of degrees in the job market.

We’re cohort based

This means you benefit from smaller class sizes, collaboration and individual attention and mentorship from faculty members. You also get to continue coursework with the same cohort so you can develop your skills together.

We provide greater support

As you work on your assignments and dissertation, you’ll have complete access to the Maryville library and librarians. Additionally, your courses will include integrated writing tools, such as pre-submission proofreading with detailed feedback.

What can you do with an online Doctor of Education?

Our online Doctor of Education program is a leadership-focused degree that promotes strategic high-level decision making. Our online EdD graduates can teach, but the degree is most applicable outside of the classroom. Positions at the top levels of higher education can empower you to have a greater influence. They can also be financially rewarding. Earning your online doctorate in education is a great way to advance your career and increase your earning potential while shaping the future of higher education.

Career opportunities with an EdD in Higher Education Leadership

Professionals with a  Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership  possess the skills and knowledge to identify problems and opportunities in higher education and make improvements in the field.

Completing your online EdD in Higher Education Leadership at Maryville can qualify you for leadership roles such as:

  • Academic dean
  • Admissions director
  • Chief academic officer
  • College/university administrator
  • College/university president
  • Dean of students
  • Department chair
  • Education researcher and consultant

In settings such as:

  • Colleges and universities
  • Government agencies
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Private businesses

Learn more on  our careers page .

What is the typical Doctor of Education salary?

With your  online EdD in Higher Education Leadership , you can build a foundation to pursue careers with median salaries of leadership positions such as:

College/University President

College/University Administrator

Department Chair

Dean of Students

Admissions Director

Chief Academic Affairs Officer

Why earn an EdD instead of a PhD in Higher Education?

The value and utility of doctoral degree programs in higher education vary significantly. It is crucial to ensure that the skills acquired from your online education degree align with your aspirations. Let’s explore why pursuing an online Doctor of Education could be the best option for you.

Time icon

Time —  Our online Doctor of Education program is a 32-month, 48-credit program. Compared with a PhD in Higher Education, this credential could save you one to three years in completion time.

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Practice-Based Research  — In a PhD program, your primary goal is to master and extend the body of knowledge on a subject. However, your research isn’t necessarily applicable in a leadership role. With our Doctorate in Educational leadership online program , you can apply existing research methods to the critical issues affecting your institution and inform decision making directly.

Online student icon

Leadership —  An online Doctor of Education is all about leadership. PhD programs are typically designed for educational leaders in specific academic disciplines. With an online EdD degree , you have the potential to become a provost or president of a university.

Faculty insights

We asked  Jason Castles , director and assistant professor of higher education leadership, for his thoughts on the online Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership program. Here are his responses:

What are some of the trending areas of focus in the online Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership program?

We strive to stay current on trends and the future of higher education. Some recent areas of focus include the impact of the pandemic in higher ed (budgeting, enrollment, and mental health); diversity, equity and inclusion work; and demographic shifts (who is attending and how many students are attending). Additional trends impacting higher ed include data analytics; financial sustainability and affordability; changes to tenure systems; and the growing reliance on adjunct faculty members.

What advice would you give to someone studying higher education leadership?

  • Have a plan/create a schedule, as time management is crucial.
  • Consider the “cost” of attending, weighing factors such as being a full-time student, working full time and commitments to family and friends.
  • Try not to get “stuck” in one area and strive to broaden your perspective.
  • Have an open mind.
  • Enjoy the process — both classes and your dissertation.

What are the most important skills employers are looking for?

Employers value flexibility, data analysis skills and the ability to develop outcome assessment plans. They also look for candidates with cultural competence, empathy and active listening skills (especially during the pandemic).

Why should students choose to take this program at Maryville?

We offer a high level of student support and engagement from faculty and staff, providing students with constructive feedback and tools to learn to be successful in higher ed. We also offer a financially efficient 32-month, 48-credit program with a solid, rigorous curriculum.

Online EdD in Higher Education Leadership curriculum

The best higher education doctoral programs prepare you to address the critical issues that will shape the future of higher ed. That’s why we focus on topics such as quantitative and qualitative data analysis, future-focused governance and finance, contemporary student experiences, new and innovative technologies, and just about anything else you may face in an educational leadership role. We also let you explore your individual interests through professional practice courses based on current trends in higher education.

Our  online Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership  program is designed for completion with 48 credit hours and in as little as 32 months of year-round study. Find out more about our program on  our curriculum page .

Lead inside and outside of the classroom.  Our curriculum can help you develop the competencies to be a top educator in the classroom or apply your knowledge and skills toward outstanding research. Learn to solve the complicated challenges of classroom dynamics in courses such as Leadership in Higher Education and Leading in a Complex Environment, and hone your research skills with Research Residency I and II and Understanding Data and Analysis.

Experience a dynamic, future-focused education doctorate. Maryville University has been an innovator in education for nearly 150 years. When you earn your Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership with us, we can help you take that pioneering spirit with you. Through courses such as Strategic Change and Innovation, you can develop a progressive and change-oriented mindset, so wherever you go in your education career, you will go with confidence.

Discover that leadership starts with compassion. As an educator, your students are a primary focus. That’s why our curriculum includes courses such as The College Student Experience and Reflective Leadership Practice and Inquiry to help you understand your students and design your higher education strategies around their needs, concerns and abilities.

Online Doctor of Education admission requirements

  • A master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for master’s transcripts
  • At least three years of professional experience in higher education (exceptions considered for demonstrated professional leadership experience transferable to higher ed)
  • Both bachelor’s and master’s transcripts
  • Personal essay: 500–600 words

Learn more on  our admissions page .

Frequently asked questions

What can i do with an online doctor of education in higher education leadership degree.

Our online EdD in Higher Education Leadership prepares students for careers in educational leadership, growing their knowledge of advanced theories and practical skills so they can manage organizations, solve problems and promote positive change in higher education. Graduates of our online EdD program may advance to administrative roles, overseeing higher education institutions, programs or departments. They may work behind the scenes to assess, improve and create new curricula and instructional methods, train other educators or conduct research to advance higher education.

What is the typical salary for online EdD program graduates?

The median annual salary for professionals holding an EdD in Higher Education Leadership can vary significantly depending on factors such as industry, location, years of experience, specialization, and job role.

What does the future hold for the higher education industry?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the employment of postsecondary education administrators to grow 4% from 2022 to 2032. 7 The need to replace professionals who change roles, switch careers or retire will drive most of this growth.

How long is the online EdD program?

Our online EdD program is a 32-month, 48-credit program. Compared with a PhD in Higher Education, this credential could save you one to three years in completion time.

What are the benefits of earning an online EdD degree?

Earning your online EdD can put you on a path for career advancement, higher earnings and administrator-level leadership positions. An EdD is practice based, meaning it allows you to research your areas of interest and also leverage the results of your research to influence the decision-making process of an institution or organization. Pursuing an EdD means you will focus on identifying problems and developing strategies to help solve those problems. An EdD program prepares you with skills in conducting qualitative research, collecting data, conducting interviews, making observations and participating in focus groups. If time to completion is important to you, consider that EdD students generally finish their programs faster than PhD students. On average, a PhD takes five to six years to complete, with some studies showing that students regularly take as many as eight years. On the other hand, earning an EdD generally takes between three and four years. Students can complete ours in as little as 32 months.

Apply to the online Doctor of Education degree program at Maryville University

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  1 Top Executives. (2023). Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved February 9, 2024. arrow_upward Return to footnote reference

  2 Postsecondary Education Administrators. (2023). Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved February 9, 2024. arrow_upward Return to footnote reference

  3 Postsecondary Education Administrators. (2023). U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics . Retrieved February 9, 2024. arrow_upward Return to footnote referenceReturn to footnote reference

  4 Postsecondary Education Administrators. (2023). U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics . Retrieved February 9, 2024. arrow_upward Return to footnote referenceReturn to footnote reference

  5 Postsecondary Education Administrators. (2023). U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics . Retrieved February 9, 2024. arrow_upward Return to footnote referenceReturn to footnote reference

  6 Postsecondary Education Administrators. (2023). U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics . Retrieved February 9, 2024. arrow_upward Return to footnote referenceReturn to footnote reference

  7 Postsecondary Education Administrators. (2023). U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics . Retrieved February 9, 2024. arrow_upward Return to footnote referenceReturn to footnote reference

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  • Doctor Education Leadership Innovation

Online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership and Innovation

Admissions requirements.

  • Ways to Save on Tuition
  • Career Outcomes

Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation Overview

It’s time to take your education career even further. Become a change agent ready to make a difference in your workplace. Earn an EdD degree online in leadership and innovation.

  • Prepare for leadership roles within all areas of education, including postsecondary, government, corporate, and nonprofit institutions.
  • Take doctoral courses 100% online and complete a research project you can apply to your workplace, community, or area of expertise.
  • Get the credit you deserve. Save up to $12,600 (or 33%) on tuition and graduate in 2 years by transferring up to 30 credits from your master’s.
  • Find resources and support every step of the way, including a Faculty Advisor and Consultant, access to a comprehensive online library, writing support, and more.
  • Gain leadership, diversity and inclusion, and research skills to create innovative and transformative learning environments.

Review College Scorecard data for this program .

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

The HLC ( HLCommission.org ) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Calculate Your Time and Cost

Estimate how much your prior learning credits can reduce your tuition and time to graduation.

What Courses Will I Take?

The 100% online courses for the EdD degree build your skills in leadership and innovation, with diversity, equity, and inclusion principles integrated throughout. Topics include diversity, equity, and inclusion; transformative learning; ethics and accountability; and more. Your studies culminate in an applied research project, which you can complete at your workplace or in your community.

Sample Courses

  • Trends, Patterns, and Ethical Issues That Impact Education
  • Research in Responsive Curriculum Design and Development Learning and Professional Practice
  • Transformative Learning Environments
  • Creativity, Innovation, and Intrapreneurship in Education

Program Requirements

1 semester credit hour = 1.5 quarter credit hours

A master’s degree in a related field is required to enroll in a postgraduate program. You will need to provide an official transcript that shows completion of your master’s degree from an accredited institution, though an unofficial copy may be provided during the application process. Refer to the University Catalog or speak to an Advisor to learn more.

Upcoming Start Dates

We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life, and work schedules.

Develop with Faculty Expertise and Support

Our faculty are pioneers and leaders in online higher education and are dedicated to supporting you on your educational journey. You will be assigned a faculty member who will guide you. A Faculty Advisor will review your master’s degree and discuss your career goals to ensure alignment of your EdD cognate electives.

During your final four applied research courses, a Faculty Consultant will be there to assist you in choosing a research project that focuses on a practical application in your field of expertise. The Consultant will help you with completing the Institutional Review Board process, choosing a methodology, collecting and analyzing data, and defending your research project.

Ways to Save on Time and Tuition

Purdue Global works with students to find ways to reduce costs and make education more accessible. Contact us to learn about opportunities to save on your educational costs.

Earn credit for prior coursework completed at eligible institutions.

Learn about federal financial aid programs available for many of our degree programs.

Learn about federal and state grants and loan programs that may be available.

Employees of Purdue Global partner organizations may be eligible for special tuition reductions.

Graduate tuition savings for military include a 17–30% reduction per credit for current servicemembers and, 14% per credit for veterans for graduate programs.

Earn credit for your military training. We offer credit for ACE-evaluated training and CLEP and DANTES examinations.

View the total cost of attendance for your program.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for administrators in postsecondary education is expected to grow through 2032. Opportunities for training and development specialists and instructional coordinators are also expected to grow during this timeframe. The online doctorate in education at Purdue Global equips you with the skills and knowledge to lead education-related organizations in a fast-changing landscape.

Average Salary

In Your State

General labor market and salary data are provided by Lightcast and may not represent the outcomes experienced by Purdue Global graduates in these programs. Purdue Global graduates in these programs may earn salaries substantially different or less than the amounts listed above. Salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education, and opportunities for employment that are outside of Purdue Global's control.

Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

Get to Know Our Faculty

Purdue Global faculty members are real-world practitioners who bring knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and industry experience.

Faculty members who have advanced degrees

Faculty members who hold a doctorate

Faculty publications in 2022–2023

Professional development hours logged by faculty in 2022–2023

Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school- or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, July 2023. 2022–2023 academic year.

Join an Extensive Alumni Network

Upon graduation, you’ll become part of the Purdue Alumni Association, a vast and prestigious network of professionals. You’ll be able to make connections and access alumni benefits.

Download the Program Brochure

Download our brochure to learn more about the Online Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation and the benefits of earning your degree at Purdue Global. Prepare yourself for success with a doctoral degree in education.

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

* Estimated Graduation Date and Average Completion: Estimated graduation date is based on the assumption that you will enroll in time to begin classes on the next upcoming start date, will remain enrolled for each consecutive term, and will maintain satisfactory academic standing in each term to progress toward completion of your program. Completion time is based on a full-time schedule. Programs will take longer for part-time students to complete.

Credit for Prior Learning: Estimate based on maximum cognate open elective credits available in degree plan. The EdD program is a new offering and thus historic data on credit for prior learning are not available. Exact transfer amount may vary. All credits must be validated on official transcript(s) to be eligible for transfer. Purdue Global does not guarantee transferability of credit. See the University Catalog for the Prior Learning policy.

Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment.

Postsecondary Education Administrator Job Growth and Openings: Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Postsecondary Education Administrators, www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm . National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

Training and Development Specialists and Instructional Coordinators Job Openings: Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Training and Development Specialists, www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/training-and-development-specialists.htm ; Instructional Coordinators, www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/instructional-coordinators.htm . National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

TBS Staff Writers

Are you ready to discover your college program?

The demand for skilled educational administrators and researchers continues to rise in the U.S.

If you have a passion for keeping up with shifting demographics and meeting student and faculty needs, an online doctorate in higher education might be the right choice for you. This advanced degree builds leadership skills in a variety of roles such as student services, enrollment management, education administration, and academic support. Many higher education programs also prepare you for advanced academic research, which explores new strategies to meet changing educational needs.

An online Ph.D. in higher education is the highest degree attainable in the field. This level of specialization can also lead to increased job opportunities. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that careers for postsecondary education administrators will grow 10% through 2026, a rate faster than the national average.

Featured Online Doctorate in Higher Education Programs

The best online doctorate in higher education programs, andrews university.

  • Campus + Online
  • In-State $28,992
  • Out-of-state $28,992
  • Retention Rate 87%
  • Acceptance Rate 67%
  • Students Enrolled 3,390
  • Institution Type Private
  • Percent Online Enrollment 27%
  • Accreditation Yes

Colorado State University

  • In-State $9,426
  • Out-of-state $28,147
  • Retention Rate 84%
  • Acceptance Rate 81%
  • Students Enrolled 33,426
  • Institution Type Public
  • Percent Online Enrollment 26%

Gwynedd Mercy University

  • In-State $34,864
  • Out-of-state $34,864
  • Retention Rate 78%
  • Acceptance Rate 95%
  • Students Enrolled 2,990
  • Percent Online Enrollment 45%

Maryville University

  • In-State $26,070
  • Out-of-state $26,070
  • Retention Rate 83%
  • Acceptance Rate 83%
  • Students Enrolled 10,013
  • Percent Online Enrollment 76%

Missouri Baptist University

  • In-State $26,860
  • Out-of-state $26,860
  • Retention Rate 71%
  • Acceptance Rate 61%
  • Students Enrolled 5,309
  • Percent Online Enrollment 34%

Regent University

  • In-State $17,220
  • Out-of-state $17,220
  • Acceptance Rate 86%
  • Students Enrolled 10,365
  • Percent Online Enrollment 92%

Saint Peter's University

  • In-State $37,660
  • Out-of-state $37,660
  • Retention Rate 81%
  • Students Enrolled 3,233
  • Percent Online Enrollment 35%

University of Florida

  • In-State $4,477
  • Out-of-state $25,694
  • Retention Rate 97%
  • Acceptance Rate 37%
  • Students Enrolled 52,407
  • Percent Online Enrollment 46%

University of Memphis

  • In-State $8,208
  • Out-of-state $12,048
  • Acceptance Rate 85%
  • Students Enrolled 21,685
  • Percent Online Enrollment 44%

University of Mississippi

  • In-State $8,718
  • Out-of-state $24,990
  • Acceptance Rate 88%
  • Students Enrolled 21,617
  • Percent Online Enrollment 38%

Best Online Programs

Doctorate in higher education, online doctorate in higher education programs ranking guidelines.

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

What Else Can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Higher Education Program?

Coursework can vary significantly between online doctoral programs in higher education, with some focused on practical skills for educational administration and others on academic skills for research. In general, however, this degree offers a comprehensive perspective on the major practices in higher education and the strategies used for gauging their effectiveness.

Curriculum for an Online Doctorate in Higher Education

  • Foundations of Education Research: Part of most programs, this course introduces the major principles of education research, exploring the theoretical, practical, philosophical, and ethical dimensions of performing research. Given its broad nature, this course pertains to all types of higher education careers.
  • Higher Education Law: Exploring the application of legal theories and practices to higher education, this course is mandatory for candidates in administrative positions. Higher education law typically covers topics that include nondiscrimination in employment, privacy and openness, contractual obligations, tenure, academic freedom, and program discontinuance.
  • Adult Learners: Designed to address changing age demographics in higher education populations, this course focuses on the major theories and perspectives associated with adult learning. A common requirement for higher education administrators, the course also presents strategies for meeting the unique needs of these students.
  • Enrollment Management and Marketing: Addressing issues of strategic enrollment, this course aids candidates in college enrollment departments. Students explore fundamental topics such as branding, forecasting, differentiation, and alumni relations. Increasingly, enrollment and marketing management also involve social media and other digital public relations tools.
  • Higher Education Practicum: Regardless of focus or career goals, most candidates earning their Ph.D. in higher education online must complete a professional practicum, typically at their place of employment or another professional higher education setting. The practicum offers the chance for hands-on learning, allowing students to draw connections between coursework and their own professional practice.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Doctorate in Higher Education?

Earning a doctorate in higher education online requires commitment, and one factor in your choice of program may be its total completion time. In general, most programs require 50-60 credit hours, taking anywhere from 3-5 years to complete, but this can vary based on factors such as residency components. Most Ph.D. higher education online programs also require you to possess a master’s degree in a related field.

Some doctoral degrees use an accelerated format that features a more intensive course schedule but allows you to complete your education faster. These programs often include residency sessions that require you to spend a certain amount of time on campus for concentrated classroom learning. Some degrees may also use an independent, self-paced format that allows you to complete work on your own schedule, while others use a cohort format where you complete a set sequence of courses with the same group of students.

Accreditation for Online Doctorate in Higher Education Degrees

When researching online programs, determine the school’s accreditation status, which indicates academic reputability and quality. Accreditation indicates that a school received a positive assessment of their academic programs from a licensed accreditation agency, designating the institution’s ability to adequately serve students.

Colleges and universities in the U.S. receive either regional or national accreditation. Typically, professional and vocational programs hold national recognition, while academic programs receive regional accreditation. Any reputable online doctorate in higher education will hold regional accreditation. When examining doctoral programs, look for an accreditation status from agencies like the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA), or the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

While the U.S. Department of Education (ED) oversees both primary and secondary education in the U.S., it does not provide accreditation to postsecondary institutions, such as colleges and universities. Instead, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversees these institutions, counting over 3,000 schools and around 60 accreditation organizations among its members. The ED also conducts reviews of all accrediting agencies, ensuring that they meet certain government standards. Together, these two organizations maintain standards for higher education in the U.S. CHEA aims to eliminate degree mills — fraudulent education providers that offer counterfeit academic programs for profit. Both CHEA and the ED maintain listings of accredited schools and accrediting organizations, which can be useful when determining the reputability of a school or online program.

Employment Outlook for Doctorate in Higher Education Graduates

Doctorate in higher education careers, postsecondary education administrator median salary $90,760.

While many career paths exist for those with a doctorate level education, most graduates choose to pursue a career in administration or academics. In administration , common positions include enrollment management, student services, and — at the highest level — academic dean or provost. The academic path emphasizes teaching and research almost exclusively. However, academics occasionally move into higher-level administrative positions later on in their careers. Regardless of specialization, most careers in higher education require strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

Postsecondary Teacher Median Salary $75,430

College and university professors instruct students beyond the high school level while simultaneously performing advanced research and publishing their findings. Higher education specialists focus their research on improving education practices. Academics may also participate in administrative functions, particularly in their area of expertise.

Instructional Coordinator Median Salary $62,460

Instructional coordinators supervise, assess, and develop curricula and practices. They typically work alongside colleges and universities to examine the effectiveness of instruction and offer ideas for improvement. Coordinators may also work with state or national education agencies to determine large-scale strategies.

School and Career Counselor Median Salary $54,560

These specialists work with students to develop the skills needed for social and academic success in both school and life. Counselors may connect students to additional campus resources, such as mental health services. Career counselors, however, may connect students to job opportunities and internships.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Doctorate in Higher Education Salary

Several factors can influence salary prospects for postsecondary education administrators, including education level, professional experience, place of employment, and location. Most of the top-paying states for education administrators are found in the eastern U.S., including New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. California and Hawaii also boast higher salaries for education administrators. The following chart from the BLS compiles salary information for administrators. Higher education administrators in these states can expect to earn annual mean salaries well over $100,000, demonstrating the advantages of earning an advanced degree.

Top Five Paying U.S. States for Postsecondary Education Administrators
New Jersey$154,300
Delaware$146,430
Maryland$125,350
California$123,630
Hawaii$121,560

Higher Education Professional Organizations

Given the constantly changing nature of higher education, professionals in the field depend on trade organizations to share knowledge and improve their practices. Professional higher education groups offer their members an assortment of benefits, including conferences, academic journals, professional development opportunities, job connections, and a host of other networking opportunities. Many of these groups also offer opportunities for students that includes mentorships, research opportunities, and internships.

American Association of College Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO)

American association of university administrators (aaua), american association of colleges and universities (aac&u), paying for your online doctorate in higher education.

Depending on your income, professional background, and your program, you may have several options for funding your online Ph.D. in higher education. Education students can often take advantage of special opportunities unavailable to those in other fields, including tuition reimbursement specifically for educators. Depending on where you work (particularly if you’re already employed in higher education administration), your employer may pay for some or all of your degree for the purposes of professional development.

Plenty of options exist to help supplement the full cost of your tuition. Prospective students should begin by filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as it offers you access to grants, scholarships, low-interest loans, and other funding measures. Completing the FAFSA may unlock grant opportunities that require you to do nothing other than claim your funding. Even without grants, educators have access to a wide variety of scholarships that can help with tuition.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Higher Education Admin. Shaping the Future of Academia: Innovation and Leadership in University Administration

online phd programs higher education

Degree Options

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Become a University Leader with Liberty’s PhD in Higher Education Administration

Liberty University’s 100% online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Higher Education Administration degree program can help expand your knowledge, skills, and training in education through advanced course content and in-depth research. Our program focuses on developing leadership and research skills, so you can become equipped with the problem-solving abilities needed to lead students to success.

Our PhD in Higher Education online degree program can help provide you with the tools you need to effectively communicate through various mediums and solve complex issues. This program can also enable you to focus on leadership or student affairs in higher education through research and practical application — allowing you to enhance your skills and market your abilities.

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What is a PhD in Higher Education Administration?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Higher Education Administration is a terminal degree designed to prepare scholars and academics for career advancement. This program focuses on giving you the tools you need to pursue roles as a professor or administrator at colleges and universities. This degree program can teach you best practices for managing departments, implementing enrollment growth strategies, and complying with government standards as you prepare for success in higher education leadership. 

What Will You Study in Our PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree Program ?

Our online education classes seek to  enhance your knowledge of leadership styles  in the educational setting. Understanding how leadership styles promote excellence is crucial in guiding your organization toward its defined mission, as is gaining an advanced understanding of ways to foster student success. To this end, our higher education administration doctoral degree offers  practical studies  in topics such as educational law, administration, and collegiate teaching.

Though our PhD in Higher Education Administration degree online offers different specializations, the  core courses  are the same for all specializations. Through your core PhD courses, you will study:

  • Assessment and accreditation
  • College and university administration
  • Economic aspects of higher education
  • Historical perspectives of higher education
  • Teaching the college student

In addition to the core courses, you’ll be able to pick from our various specialization options – so you can tailor your degree to match your unique interests and goals! Additionally, by completing a dissertation, you’ll be able to contribute to the base of knowledge in your field.

Featured Courses

  • EDUC 758 – Teaching the College Student
  • EDUC 759 – College and University Administration
  • EDUC 783 – Economic Impact in Higher Education
  • EDUC 784 – Assessment and Accreditation

PhD in Higher Education Online Degree Information

  • This program falls under the  School of Education .
  • View the  Graduate Education Course Guides   (login required).
  • The PhD in Higher Education Administration includes a dissertation.

Why Choose Liberty’s Online PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree?

Liberty’s PhD in Higher Education Administration online degree program is designed to provide you with the advanced training you need to seek promotions, explore new opportunities, or make a career change. This degree can help prepare you to work in a Christian college, community college, or state university system. With your experience and Liberty’s higher education administration doctorate degree, you can help students transition to college successfully.

At Liberty, we value your time. Our PhD programs are designed to work with your busy schedule and equip you with effective learning tools. Our PhD in Higher Education Administration is offered 100% online, so you won’t have to attend courses on campus. We are committed to helping you obtain your degree in a way that is most convenient for you.

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Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

  • What Sets Us Apart?
  • Private Nonprofit University
  • 600+ Online Degrees
  • No Standardized Testing for Admission
  • Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
  • Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Potential Career Options

  • College/university administrator
  • Curriculum specialist
  • Educational consultant
  • Program coordinator
  • Student affairs director

Degree Options for the PhD in Higher Education Administration

Check out the specializations we offer and find the perfect fit for you:

Assessment and Evaluation

Liberty University’s online  PhD in Higher Education Administration – Assessment and Evaluation  can help you understand the fundamentals of educational assessment and institutional research – so you can ensure that your school meets high standards of quality and follows best practices for helping students succeed.

View the  Degree Completion Plan .

Educational Leadership

Liberty University’s online  PhD in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership  can help equip you with the skills needed to pursue administrative positions at institutions of higher education. 

Student Affairs

Liberty University’s online  PhD in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs  can help prepare you to support collegiate student bodies.

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Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

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Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information for Our Online PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree Program

Admission requirements.

  • A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
  • Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
  • Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

  • Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
  • Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
  • Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
  • Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

  • Active Duty
  • Reserve/National Guard
  • Veterans/Retirees
  • Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions About the PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree

Is a phd in higher education administration worth it.

Doctoral programs in higher education can give you the specialized tools and knowledge you need to move from a teaching career to an administrative role in a college or university.

Should I get a PhD in Higher Education Administration?

Higher education PhD programs are designed to help you specialize in an academic role at a college or university. Because of this focus, this degree is especially suited for those who:

  • Are currently teaching at the college level.
  • Want to move into a higher education teaching role.
  • Already have a role in managing a higher education department. 

Earning your PhD in Higher Education Administration can open doors to new ways you can help your school thrive. You can teach at the collegiate level while helping your school create new, successful programs. 

The skills you gain in this degree can also translate to a corporate administrative role, a nonprofit leadership role, or a government role as you can offer insights and expertise in education that many industries rely on.

What can you do with a PhD in Higher Education?

With teaching experience and a PhD in Higher Education, you can be more qualified for many roles in education administration. 

  • With research experience from Liberty’s PhD in Higher Education, you can be well prepared for roles in colleges and universities such as department head, university board chair, or instructional coordination manager.
  • Many companies and organizations that develop instructional products, courses, training, and teaching materials also rely on the expertise gained from a PhD in Higher Education.
  • Administrators in many government roles at the local, state, and federal level need to lobby for, design, and implement education policies. These roles often require advanced degrees in higher education in order to develop and execute effective education regulations and laws.

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Higher Education Administration EdD

Earn your higher education edd online at southern miss, program-at-a-glance (graduate).

Credit Hours:

Total Hours: 54

Cost per Credit Hour:

Calculate Your Tuition

Completion Time:

3 years (9 semesters) *pending hours enrolled

University Accreditation:

Special Requirements:

No GRE required

Learn more about this program:

Thank you for your interest in online at southern miss.

Ready to take the next step?

This comprehensive Higher Education EdD program offers a wide range of subjects that will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field. From the two-year college setting to higher education leadership, legal issues, and social justice, you will gain a deep understanding of the intricacies of the higher education landscape. Our curriculum delves into advanced learning theory and research, allowing you to explore the cognitive processes involved in learning. You’ll also explore important aspects of human growth and learning processes, ensuring you’re well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of your students.

This program offers a capstone project rather than a dissertation, giving future deans, presidents, and directors the opportunity to tackle real-world issues.  Applicants are required to have earned a master’s degree in any field to be eligible for admission. However, it is highly recommended that applicants have at least three years of professional experience in higher education administration.

Looking for more education-related degrees? Check out our other fully-online options ! Want more info about this degree ? Our enrollment coaches are standing by to assist you. Click here for more info! This is your life, plus college!

Scholarship opportunities are available for online students! Our Online Student Scholarship gives first-time, fully online students an opportunity for $500 towards their first semester. To get started with our Online Student Scholarship or to view our list of available scholarships for which you may qualify, visit our Student Scholarship page  now!

what can you do with a higher education administration EdD degree?

A Higher Education Administration EdD Degree can help you develop the knowledge and skills to contribute to the effectiveness and continuous improvement of higher education institutions.

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EdD Higher Education - 54 hours

Course Credits
Introduction to Higher Education Studies and Research 3 hrs.
Social Justice in Higher Education 3 hrs.
History of Higher Education 3 hrs.
The Two-Year College 3 hrs.
Higher Education Finance 3 hrs.
Legal Issues in Higher Education 3 hrs.
Capstone I 3 hrs.
Capstone II 3 hrs.
Capstone III 3 hrs.
Capstone IV 3 hrs.
Organization and Administration of Higher Education 3 hrs.
Educational Research: Interpretation and Applications 3 hrs.
Survey Research 3 hrs.
Program Evaluation 3 hrs.

Advisor Approved Electives (12 hours)

Additional Note

Please note that the above information is meant to be a guide and is not official. For further information regarding courses for this degree, see the University Bulletin . Please be aware that not all course choices listed in the University Bulletin are available online. However, sufficient online options are available to complete this degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

The prospective student must complete the Graduate School admission application online and pay the application fee at http://apps.usm.edu/graduate-school/grad-school-apps/ .

This program does not lead to an educator license; it is tailored for individuals who are already working in higher education. Licensure requirements and approval are determined by each state’s licensing board. For general information about professional licensure, please review the Online Programs & Professional Licensure Page .

No. The Higher Education doctorate program requires a Capstone Project that addresses a real-world problem of practice.

The University of Southern Mississippi offers programs for higher education, education administration for preschool through 12th grade, special education, and even teaching. Visit our Education Degrees and Certifications page to see all your options to achieve your goals in education.

If you still have questions about tuition, transfer credits or anything else about the university, please visit our  FAQ page , or take a moment to fill out our form at the bottom of the screen, and we will reach out to you!

Admission Requirements

In addition to the requirements detailed in  Admission Requirements and Procedures , applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Please attach a statement that addresses the following components:

  • ​ Philosophy –  What is your philosophy of higher education practice?
  • Areas of Interest  – What problem(s) of practice are you interested in studying through your Capstone project? Note: This will not commit you to this topic(s), but it will give us an opportunity to evaluate your level of interest and understanding of particular issues in higher education. 
  • Professional Goals  – What positions interest you? Broadly, what are you hoping to achieve in your career?
  • Fit with EdD –  How will earning an EdD in Higher Education Administration contribute to your professional goals? How does the USM EdD program, in particular, fit your needs, interests, and goals? Please address the all of the above prompts in 2-3 pages using APA format.

2. CV/Résumé.

3. Three Letters of Recommendation.

This program admits new students each fall and spring term. The application priority deadline is April 15 for fall, and September 1 for spring. Members of underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

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Doctor of philosophy (ph.d.), you are here, a highly individualized doctoral program with nationally-recognized faculty researching the issues shaping higher education. .

Penn GSE's Higher Education Ph.D. program is pioneering research on the most pressing questions in higher education: college access and affordability; race, gender, and inclusion policies on campus; international education; and university governance. Our graduates are prepared to contribute to the field through positions in academia, government, or nonprofit institutions. 

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

The Ph.D. in Higher Education prepares students for an academic career in the field of higher education. Through coursework and a research assistantship with their advisor, students develop the skills they need to conduct quality primary research in higher education.

Fall: 3-4 courses; Spring: 3-4 courses

Transfer courses accepted Up to 8 with faculty approval

Culminating experience Dissertation 

The Higher Education Ph.D. program is highly individualized, and students work closely with their academic advisor to draw from courses from the division and from other areas on campus that relate to their area of inquiry. Students develop the skills they need to conduct quality primary research in higher education, including understanding research design; program evaluation; and the analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data.

The Ph.D. program in Higher Education is highly individualized. At least 12 course units of graduate work must be taken at the University of Pennsylvania. The program requires students to complete two methods courses, and Ph.D. students develop a planned program of study in consultation with their academic advisor.

For more information on courses and requirements, visit the  Higher Education Ph.D. program in the University Catalog .

Our Faculty

Higher Education faculty are leading the conversation about how to expand college access, equity, and affordability. These experts are routinely sought by university presidents, foundation leaders, journalists, and policymakers seeking to understand the changing landscape of higher education.  Please contact our program for information on selecting a faculty advisor. 

Penn GSE Faculty Ross Aikins

Affiliated Faculty

Peter Garland Executive Vice Chancellor, Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Ph.D., Penn State University

Anita Mastroieni Executive Director for Graduate Education and Initiatives Ed.D., University of Pennsylvania

Jason A. Presley Vice Dean, Finance and Administration, Penn GSE Ph.D., New York University

Frank Roth General Counsel & Secretary, Board of Trustees, Lehigh University

Sean Vereen President, Steppingstone Scholars, Inc. Ed.D., University of Pennsylvania

Demetri Morgan

"Everyone at Penn GSE is there for your success."

Demetri Morgan

Our graduates, alumni careers.

  • Assistant Professor, Loyola University of Chicago
  • Assistant Professor, Seattle University
  • Assistant Professor, The University of Michigan School of Education
  • Assistant Provost for Administration, Bryn Mawr College
  • Associate Dean, Harvard Graduate School of Education
  • Senior Program Officer, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
  • Senior Policy Advisor, United States Department of Education    

Admissions & Financial Aid

Please visit our Admissions and Financial Aid pages for specific information on the application requirements , as well as information on tuition, fees, financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

Graduate School of Education University of Pennsylvania 3700 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 898-6415 [email protected] [email protected]

Ross Aikins Adjunct Associate Professor, Program Manager (215) 898-8398 [email protected]

Noel Lipki Program Assistant (215) 746-2923 [email protected]

Please view information from our Admissions and Financial Aid Office for specific information on the cost of this program.

All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

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The Institute for Research on Higher Education (IRHE) is a university-wide research institute that conducts research relevant to policymakers and educational practitioners.

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The Alliance for Higher Education and Democracy (Penn AHEAD) is dedicated to fostering open, equitable, and democratic societies through higher education.

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    Georgia Southern University
   
  Jul 04, 2024  
2024-2025 Academic Catalog    
2024-2025 Academic Catalog
, |

The Higher Education Administration (HIED) program at Georgia Southern University prepares reflective educators for diverse learners who currently hold or wish to pursue a career in postsecondary education. Alumni work in colleges and universities, governmental agencies, and consulting firms concerned with higher education. Graduates have careers in fields including student affairs, admissions and enrollment management, financial aid, government and community relations, policy analysis, alumni relations, institutional and policy research, and athletics administration.

Degree Requirements: 36 Credit Hours

Admission requirements, regular admission.

  • Complete requirements for a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
  • Present a cumulative 2.75 (4.0 scale) grade point average or higher on all undergraduate and graduate work combined.
  • Submit a personal statement of purpose that identifies the applicant’s reasons for pursuing graduate study and how admission into the program relates to the applicant’s professional aspirations.
  • Submit a current professional resume or CV.
  • Submit a completed “Disclosure and Affirmation Form” that addresses misconduct disclosure, the Code of Ethics for Educators, and tort liability insurance.

Provisional Admission

Applicants may be approved for provisional admission based on the quality of the admission material presented. Provisional students must earn grades of “B” or higher in their first nine (9) credits of course work after admission and meet any other stipulations outlined by the department to be converted to regular status.

Program of Study

Professional education core requirements credit hours: 9.

  • EDUF 7130 - Learning Theories and Applications (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDUR 7130 - Educational Research (3 Credit Hours)
  • ITEC 7539 - Technology for Higher Education Leaders (3 Credit Hours)

Higher Education Administration Core Credit Hours: 18

  • EDLD 7430 - Students in American Higher Education (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 7431 - Higher Education Administration (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 7432 - History of American Higher Education (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8431 - Higher Education Law (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8535 - College Student Development (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8735 - Higher Education Practicum (3 Credit Hours)

Specialized Content Courses Credit Hours: 9

Select three of the following in consultation with advisor

  • COUN 7336 - Career Counseling (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 7331 - Student Affairs in Higher Education (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8432 - Higher Education Finance (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8433 - Higher Education Governance (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8434 - The Community College (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8435 - Higher Education Policy (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8436 - Grant Development/Administration (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8439 - Politics of Higher Education (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8536 - Assessment and Evaluation in Higher Education (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDLD 8537 - Globalization and Higher Education (3 Credit Hours)
  • EDUF 7235 - Multicultural Education (3 Credit Hours)
  • ITEC 7430 - Instructional Design (3 Credit Hours)
  • ITEC 8133 - Current Trends and Issues in Instructional Technology (3 Credit Hours)

Total Credit Hours: 36

Other program requirements.

  • Successful completion of a professional portfolio with practicum
  • Must successfully complete key assessments related to specific courses in the Program of Study.

Graduate students are advised by their program. Graduate students should reach out to their graduate program director for information regarding the structures in place to facilitate advisement. For more information visit Graduate Academic Advisement    .

Graduate students can also contact the Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies for more information about their program director. Phone: 912-478-COGS (2647) Email: [email protected]

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Oakland University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education

    Oakland University
   
  Jul 04, 2024  
2024-2025 Graduate Catalog    
2024-2025 Graduate Catalog
  • •  Applied and Computational Physics, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Applied Mathematical Sciences, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Biomedical Sciences: Health and Environmental Chemistry, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Biomedical Sciences: Medical Physics, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Computer Science and Informatics, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Education: Counseling, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Education: Early Childhood Education, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Education: Educational Leadership, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Electrical and Computer Engineering, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Human Movement Science, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Literacy, Culture, and Language, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Mechanical Engineering, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Music Education, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Nurse Anesthesia, Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • •  Nursing, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Nursing Practice, Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • •  Organizational Leadership, Doctor of Education
  • •  Physical Therapy, Doctor of Physical Therapy
  • •  Psychology, Doctor of Philosophy
  • •  Systems Engineering, Doctor of Philosophy

Education Specialist

  • •  Leadership, Education Specialist
  • •  Accounting, Master of Accounting
  • •  Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Acute Care, Master of Science in Nursing
  • •  Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Primary Care, Master of Science in Nursing
  • •  Applied Statistics, Master of Science
  • •  Artificial Intelligence, Master of Science
  • •  Biology, Master of Arts
  • •  Biology, Master of Science
  • •  Business Administration (executive), Master of Business Administration
  • •  Business Administration, Master of Business Administration
  • •  Business Analytics, Master of Science
  • •  Chemistry, Master of Science
  • •  Clinical and Diagnostic Science, Master of Science
  • •  Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Master of Arts
  • •  Clinical Nurse Leader, Master of Science in Nursing
  • •  Communication, Master of Arts
  • •  Computer Science, Master of Science
  • •  Conducting, Master of Music
  • •  Counseling, Master of Arts
  • •  Cyber Security, Master of Science
  • •  Early Childhood Education, Master of Education
  • •  Educational Leadership, Master of Education
  • •  Electrical and Computer Engineering, Master of Science
  • •  Elementary Education, Master of Arts in Teaching
  • •  Embedded Systems, Master of Science
  • •  Engineering Management, Master of Science
  • •  English, Master of Arts
  • •  Exercise Science, Master of Science
  • •  Family Nurse Practitioner Primary Care, Master of Science in Nursing
  • •  Finance, Master of Science
  • •  Forensic Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing
  • •  Higher Education Leadership, Master of Education
  • •  History, Master of Arts
  • •  Industrial and Systems Engineering, Master of Science
  • •  Industrial Applied Mathematics, Master of Science
  • •  Information Technology Management, Master of Science
  • •  Instrumental Performance, Master of Music
  • •  Interdisciplinary Healthcare Systems, Master of Science
  • •  Liberal Studies, Master of Arts
  • •  Linguistics, Master of Arts
  • •  Mathematics, Master of Arts
  • •  Mechanical Engineering, Master of Science
  • •  Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering, Master of Science
  • •  Music Education, Master of Music
  • •  Organizational Leadership, Master of Organizational Leadership
  • •  Piano Pedagogy, Master of Music
  • •  Physician Assistant Science, Master of Physician Assistance Science (Pending Accreditation)
  • •  Physics, Master of Science
  • •  Psychology, Master of Science
  • •  Public Administration, Master of Public Administration
  • •  Public Health, Master of Public Health
  • •  Reading and Language Arts, Master of Arts in Teaching
  • •  Safety Management, Master of Science
  • •  Secondary Education, Master of Arts in Teaching
  • •  Secondary Education with Special Education, Master of Arts in Teaching
  • •  Social Work: Advanced Standing Program, Master of Social Work
  • •  Social Work: Traditional Program, Master of Social Work
  • •  Software Engineering and Information Technology, Master of Science
  • •  Special Education, Master of Education
  • •  Systems Engineering, Master of Science
  • •  Teacher Leadership, Master of Education
  • •  Vocal Pedagogy, Master of Music
  • •  World Percussion Performance, Master of Music

Graduate Certificate

  • •  Applied Behavior Analysis: Basic, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Applied Behavior Analysis: Comprehensive, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Artificial Intelligence for Cyber Security and Trustworthy AI, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Augmented and Virtual Reality,Graduate Certificate
  • •  Autism for Multiple Disciplines, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Autism Spectrum Disorder-Advanced, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Autism Spectrum Disorder-Basic, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Automotive Electrification, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Automotive Mechatronics, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Autonomous Vehicle Systems, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Biomedical Sciences, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Business Analytics, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Business Essentials, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Business Leadership, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Clinical Exercise Science, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Communication for Organizations, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Conducting, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Corporate and Worksite Wellness, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Court Administration, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Criminal Justice Leadership, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Edge AI and IoT, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Embedded Artificial Intelligence, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Emotional Impairment: Advanced, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Emotional Impairment: Basic, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Environmental Health and Safety Management, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Environmental Protection, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Epidemiological Research, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Exercise Science, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Finance, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Fin-Tech, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Forensic Nursing, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Foundations of Computer Science, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Global and Population Health Services, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Health Care Administration, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Health Equity, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Human Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Human Factors and Ergonomics, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Human Resource Management, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Human-Robot Interactions, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Industrial Hygiene, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Information Security Management, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Instrumental Performance, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Lean Leadership, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Local Government Management, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Machine Learning, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Machine Vision and Robotics, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Marketing, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Mechatronics and Robotics Fundamentals, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Nonprofit Organization and Management, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Oncology Rehabilitation, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Orthopedics, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Pathology Sciences, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Piano Performance, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Play Therapy, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Productivity Improvement, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Robotic Systems, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Specific Learning Disability: Advanced, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Specific Learning Disability: Basic, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Statistical Methods, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages PreK-12(TESOL), Graduate Certificate
  • •  Teaching and Learning for Health Care Professionals, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Systems and Controls, Graduate Certificate
  • •  Systems Dynamics, Graduate Certificate

Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate

  • •  Accounting, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Acute Care, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Primary Care, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Business Economics, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Central Office Administration, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Entrepreneurship, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Family Nurse Practitioner Primary Care, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  General Management, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Higher Education, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  International Business, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Management Information Systems, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Production/Operations Management, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificate
  • •  Reading, Language Arts and Literature, Post-Master’s Graduate Certificates
  • •  School Administration, Post Master’s Graduate Certificate

Purdue Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business logo

ONLINE MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Request Information

Ready to learn more about our program?

No GMAT or GRE? Don’t Worry.

The GMAT or GRE is not required for admission, making it even easier to take your next giant leap.   Learn more about our admission requirements .

Take the Next Giant Leap in Your Career

Earn your MBA 100% online from the Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business at Purdue University, a leading STEM institution recognized for the persistent pursuit of innovation and excellence in business and technology.

Get ready to make your mark. Prepare for your next career success — online, on your terms.

Top 10 Most Innovative School

U.S. News & World Report named Purdue among the most innovative institutions in the nation for improvements in curriculum, faculty, students and technology. 1

#9 Best Online MBA in North America

In 2024, the Purdue Daniels school was ranked as one of the best online MBA programs in North America by CEO Magazine 2

Ranked and Respected

Earn a data- and technology-driven MBA from Purdue, a top 10 public university in the U.S. Purdue is also ranked #7 for Best Value, delivering both quality and affordability. 3

Prestigious Alumni Network

Purdue is ranked in the top 20 for most graduates working at leading Fortune 500 companies. 4 Join our international network of 600K+ alumni making an impact.

About the Purdue Online MBA

Develop the analytical, strategic and problem-solving expertise you need to lead teams and organizations. Learn how dynamic global environments are transforming modern business, and gain the management skills to tackle new challenges, drive change and inspire others. You'll experience an AACSB-accredited, quant-based curriculum that empowers you to ask the right questions while turning data into knowledge.

The Purdue Online MBA Offers:

  • Balance: While you can complete your courses online when it’s convenient for you, our program provides 1-on-1 support from staff and faculty who host virtual sessions and office hours.
  • Community: Learn from our esteemed faculty in a connected, collaborative online environment, where you still get the full, immersive Purdue student experience. Join Purdue’s worldwide network of students from 135+ countries.
  • Growth and Support:  Work closely with a certified Executive Coach from the Career Services Office who provides specialized support in achieving your career goals. You’ll also enjoy 1-on-1 guidance from a Student Success Coach who’s dedicated to your educational and career advancement.

Tuition and Fees

$60,000.00 tuition for Indiana residents, including fees 5

$62,102.40 tuition for non-Indiana residents, including fees 5

$1,000 nonrefundable deposit required 6

Tuition Reductions

Purdue offers tuition reductions and scholarships for the Daniels School Online MBA to select individuals, ensuring that career advancement and personal growth are even more within reach.

For more information, please contact us at [email protected] or 877-491-0224 .

Upcoming Start Dates

Fall Term 2024

Apply by: August 1

Spring Term 2025

Apply by: December 1

Summer Term 2025

Apply by: April 1

Fall Term 2025

Apply by: August 7

Purdue News, Information and Highlights

Stay up-to-date on all that’s happening at Purdue University.

In the News

  • Purdue Recognized as a Top Producer of Fulbright U.S. Scholars
  • Purdue’s Daniels School Is Shaping the Future of Business Education
  • Purdue Research: The Effect Airbnb Bans Have on Rental Markets
  • Former World Bank President to Join Purdue University and Its Daniels School of Business
  • Purdue University Receives $100 Million Commitment from Lilly Endowment
  • Excellence in Economics: Three Daniels School Faculty Among Exeter Prize Finalists
  • Purdue Offers Online MBAs in These 4 High-Demand, High-Paying Industries

Information and Events

  • Learn More About the Mitchell E. Daniels School of Business
  • Access the Purdue Business Journal
  • Check out Daniels School of Business Events

About the Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business

Part of a leading stem university.

Purdue’s Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business is part of one of the world’s preeminent engineering, science and technology universities. Our graduates are immediately prepared to contribute and possess the leadership skills to advance their careers, initiate progress and innovation in their fields, and build a better world.

Respected Internationally

The Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business' faculty , staff, students and alumni push the boundaries of knowledge and together solve the world’s most complex problems every day.

A “Brand That Matters”

For the second year in a row, Purdue was named as one of Fast Company’s “Brands That Matter,” a list honoring organizations for cultural relevance, social impact and clear, authentic communication. Purdue is proud to be the sole university and one of only 13 two-time honorees to join internationally recognized brands like Nike, Salesforce.org, Fender and other influential organizations who made the 2022 list. Come experience the Boilermaker brand of business !

What Our Students Say

Meredith Simmons

"My Online MBA classes have immediately paid off in my day-to-day. It's been awesome to see things I learn in my coursework get put to use at work."

Meredith Simmons Purdue University Online MBA Graduate, 2022

Amanda Farrer

"The Online MBA program offers group work in almost every course, which is where you get the opportunity to learn from your peers and learn about other roles or business industries that are out there."

Amanda Farrer Purdue University Online MBA Graduate, 2022

Christian Coakley

"What stood out to me about the program was the flexibility. I was working in a position where I was traveling a lot, and since the program is online, I could study from anywhere in the world."

Christian Coakley Purdue University Online MBA Student, 2023

Application Requirements

To be eligible for admission to this program, the following are recommended:

  • At least 24 months of work experience
  • The equivalent of a U.S. four-year bachelor’s degree
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0

Application review emphasizes your work experience, prior undergraduate academic record and professional training. To be considered for the Purdue Online MBA program, you may be asked to complete an interview with the program manager, and you will be required to submit all the items below:

  • Academic Statement of Purpose introducing yourself to the Admissions Committee ( view full details )
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Personal History Statement ( view full details )
  • Professional resume with education, work experience and training
  • Official transcripts for every higher education institution attended. Please note: All transcripts and/or academic documents uploaded by the applicant to the online application system are considered unofficial. Please order your transcripts to be sent directly from your institution to the Purdue University Graduate School at [email protected] .
  • Interview feedback

The Online MBA is a rigorous program that requires quantitative aptitude. The Daniels School's online programs admissions team will look for evidence of this in your application via previous coursework. If you feel that you do not have sufficient evidence in your previous coursework to demonstrate this aptitude, you may want to consider submitting a GMAT or GRE score to enhance your application. The GMAT or GRE is not required for admission to the online MBA.

Online Application

When completing your application for the Purdue master of business administration online program, select the following:

  • Graduate major: Management (MBA)
  • An area of interest
  • Degree objective: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Course delivery method: Distance (online or off-campus location)
  • Fall 2024 Term: August 19, 2024 (application deadline – August 1, 2024)
  • Spring 2025 Term: January 13, 2025 (application deadline – December 1, 2024)

Transcript Information

  • All applicants must upload to the online application transcript(s) and/or academic document(s) for every institution of higher education attended. If a transcript and diploma/degree certificate is not in English, an English translation (certified by the college or university that issued it) must be uploaded.
  • The uploaded transcript and/or academic document must be from the official version of the document. An official transcript bears the original signature of the registrar and/or the original seal of the issuing institution.
  • If personal identifying information such as a student identification number or Social Security number appear on the document, REMOVE THIS INFORMATION from your electronic version of your document or mark out the information in black ink before scanning your document.

All transcripts and/or academic documents uploaded by the applicant to the online application system are considered unofficial. Please order your transcripts to be sent directly from your institution to the Purdue University Graduate School at [email protected] . The Purdue University Graduate School reserves the right to require official transcripts and/or academic documents at any time during the admissions process.

Letters of Recommendation

  • Two online recommendations are required for your application to be received. No more than two recommendations are needed.
  • Recommendations will only be accepted through the online application (no paper recommendations will be accepted).
  • We strongly urge (but do not require) that one recommendation be from your direct supervisor.
  • Recommendations from friends, family members, acquaintances and other sources unable to evaluate professional or academic qualifications for MBA study are not acceptable.
  • We require that recommenders submit the recommendations online (instructions to do so are provided within the online application).

Please note that we will not receive your application until at least two registered recommenders have submitted recommendations through the online application.

Required Essays

Academic statement of purpose (2-pages max).

The Academic Statement of Purpose is an opportunity for you to introduce yourself to the Admissions Committee. In your statement, you should share information about your academic background and training, academic objectives and interests, and why you are a good match for the program to which you are applying.

View more information about the application statement .

Personal History Statement

Your Personal History Statement helps reviewers learn more about you and your potential as a graduate student. Your statement may include relevant information about your leadership roles, community services projects, participation in diverse teams, as well as any barriers you’ve had to overcome to attend graduate school.

View details about the personal history requirements .

Personalize Your Degree Plan

It's Your MBA on Your Terms

Design your own plan of study to fit your individual needs and goals. Graduate in as few as two years, or lighten your course load and take more time. For busy adults balancing work and school, it’s important to be able to slow down when you need to — or speed up when life allows.

You can also customize your MBA by choosing from a wide range of courses that best align to your career plans. Want to further hone your expertise? Add a specialization in one of ten high-demand areas, such as Business Analytics, Machine Learning and AI, and Digital Marketing & Analytics.

Two students conversing

Additional Daniels School Master’s Programs

Whether you are an experienced working professional or looking to launch your career, Daniels offers a variety of graduate business options designed to suit your background and goals:

  • Master of Business Programs
  • Online Programs
  • Specialized Master's Programs
  • Certificate and Professional Development Programs

As Few as 2 Years

Program Length

3 Times a Year

Start Dates

100% Online

Learning Format

Ready to Take Your Next Giant Leap?

Notes and conditions - please read.

1 Innovative Institutions: Source: U.S. News & World Report, on the internet at https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities/innovative

2 #9 Best Online MBA in North America: Source: https://ceo-mag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024-Global-MBA-Rankings-All-Categories-.pdf

3 Top 10 Public University: The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education, on the internet at https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-public-universities-united-states ; #7 for Value: The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education, on the internet at https://www.wsj.com/articles/college-rankings-list-2022-11632246093

4 Graduates at Fortune 500 Companies: Source: Forbes, on the internet at https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaeltnietzel/2021/09/04/the-universities-with-the-most-graduates-working-at-top-fortune-500-companies/

5 Tuition rate includes fees. Tuition and fees are subject to increase based on approval by the Purdue University Board of Trustees. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

6 Deposit is applied toward the first semester's tuition upon enrollment.

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