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Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

The Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) is a terminal graduate degree for devoted practitioners committed to promoting quality and equity in classrooms, school systems, and communities. Graduates of the three-year, multidisciplinary program are uniquely prepared for leadership positions in a variety of settings. Offered part-time and online.

EdDPrograms.org

Ed.D. Programs in Virginia

Finding an affordable Virginia doctoral program in education just got a lot easier. In our Ed.D. guide, you'll discover VA program listings (with costs & curricula), a breakdown of online options, info about Ed.D. funding, and much more. Don't miss the career section, which contains data on educational leadership jobs & salaries in Virginia and links to important conferences.

Earning a Doctor of Education Degree in Virginia

One word springs to mind for Virginia doctorates in education. Quality. In our school listings , you’ll see a lot of heavy-hitters. UVA, VCU, and W&M frequently battle it out in the rankings for Best Education Schools ; VCU, Radford, and W&M are also taking part in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) . Alongside well-respected public research universities, there are CAEP-accredited religious schools and liberal arts institutions.

Each of them has a unique take on the doctorate. There are programs in online & hybrid forms , programs with generous scholarships & tuition discounts , programs with Ed.D. capstone projects instead of dissertations, and programs that can help you achieve the Division Superintendent License . You can opt for a conventional Ed.D. in leadership or choose from a range of intriguing specialties.

Start with the links in our school listings and then have a quick skim through our advice areas. Once you have one or two programs in mind, you may want to consult the extensive career section. We’ve provided directions to administrative job & salary data , state-specific job boards, useful educational leadership associations (e.g. VASS), and career-building conferences & training programs (e.g. VFEL).

Online Doctor of Education Programs in Virginia

Online ed.d. providers in virginia.

• Liberty University (CAEP-accredited)
• Radford University (CAEP-accredited)
• Regent University (CAEP-accredited)
• University of Virginia (CAEP-accredited)
• Virginia Commonwealth University (CAEP-accredited)
• Virginia Tech (CAEP-accredited)

What to Know About Virginia Online Ed.D. Programs

Here’s the short & sweet on Virginia online doctoral programs in education—you can have your pick from six CAEP-accredited public schools and Christian private universities. It’s just a question of deciding how much you want to pay. Tuition rates are the same for in-state and out-of-state online Ed.D. students at UVA, Liberty, Radford, and Regent (Radford has a small out-of-state fee); VCU and Virginia Tech charge out-of-state residents more. We explore each option below.

But we also want to highlight the alternatives. A number of so-called “campus” Ed.D. programs in our school listings are technically hybrid. To take just one example—the College of William and Mary’s Executive Ed.D. in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership is primarily online, supplemented by four campus weekends per fall & spring semester and two-week summer residencies. If you live in the area and can afford the commute, you may find a degree that’s right up your alley.

Note: Our overview of online Doctor of Education programs contains a complete list of online Ed.D. degrees offered in every state and our list of the best online Ed.D. programs.

Online Ed.D. Programs at Public Virginia Universities

Most of the programs covered in this section are online versions of the university’s on-campus Ed.D., so they’ve been tried and tested. Better yet, they come with superb credentials. For instance, VCU’s 48-credit Online Ed.D. in Leadership is offered by its highly regarded College of Education (check out the COE’s stellar online education ranking) and informed by the CPED initiative .

We like the fact that it’s a cohort-based program with a close learning community, a group-based capstone that focuses on problems of practice, and a curriculum with annual summer residencies (think networking). It only takes three years to complete and credits aren’t too cumbersome. Plus in-state residents get a great tuition deal.

Another contender for the top public online doctorate in education is UVA. Its cohort-based, 72-credit Online Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction is backed by the Curry School’s U.S. News & World Report ranking and full of quality markers. We’re talking about factors like a field internship, practical portfolio, mentor supervision, and the chance to choose an area of emphasis. What’s more, you can study part-time or full-time.

The 72-credit number is a little misleading—up to 24 credits from a current master’s degree may be applied toward the Ed.D. (Check out UVA’s M.Ed./Ed.D. partnership with Melbourne University.). The extremely affordable per credit tuition rate is the same for in-state and out-of-state students.

Need some flexibility? Radford University’s 63-credit Online Doctor of Education is a part-time, 100% online program made up of seven-week courses—and it can be completed in three years. Better yet, graduates qualify for Virginia licensure as a superintendent. Radford is part of the CPED initiative and tuition rates are very reasonable, so this is an option that’s well-worth considering.

Or you could consider a more focused path. For instance, Virginia Tech’s Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction – Integrative STEM Education is available through synchronous web-based delivery, supplemented with summer residencies. It’s 90 semester hours, but that includes previous Master’s courses. Overall, per credit tuition rates for the virtual campus are better for in-state students than out-of-state ones. And VT claims there has been a 100% post-secondary education placement rate for graduates.

Online Ed.D. Programs at Private Virginia Universities

The remaining online Ed.D. options in Virginia come from private Christian universities: Liberty and Regent. These tend to be a) made for working professionals and b) similar in format & scope. They don’t have the clout of, say, UVA, but they are extremely flexible.

For instance, Liberty offers a raft of online Ed.D. programs, including a standard 54-credit Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership or Curriculum & Instruction specialties, a 60-credit Online Ed.D. in Christian Leadership , a 57-credit Online Ed.D. in Community Care and Counseling in two specialties, and even an Online J.D./Doctor of Education dual degree program.

A few things to note here. All of Liberty’s programs are 100% online, with eight-week courses and optional on-campus intensives for the traditional Ed.D. and Counseling options. All of them accept credit transfers (9-15 credit hours, depending on the program). All of them included an integrated dissertation. And all of them tend to be informed by a Christian worldview. Per credit tuition rates are reasonable and Liberty offers some outstanding discounts. See our funding section for complete details.

You’ll have even more choice at Regent—the university has so many Online Ed.D. Programs that we don’t have room to list them all. They’re 66 or 66+ credits. Like Liberty, Regent offers convenience, with eight-week course sessions. And the program includes an opportunity for Ed.S. graduates to be admitted with advanced standing.

Unlike Liberty, Regent’s online doctorates are not 100% online—they include in-person summer residencies. They’re also more expensive, though Regent allows you to take the Ed.S. first at the lower tuition rate and then apply those credits to the Ed.D. In addition, military and veterans receive a hefty discount; see our funding section for full details.

No Dissertation Ed.D. Programs in Virginia

Doctoral research projects & capstones.

Members of the CPED initiative prioritize collaborative work and practical application, so you won’t be surprised to hear that VCU’s Ed.D. in Leadership (on-campus or online) has an “applied group dissertation” (a.k.a. capstone). During the last three semesters of the program, you’ll be able to work with fellow Ed.D. students on a research-based problem of practice. You’ll interpret data, develop findings & recommendations, write a client document (Executive Summary), and present your findings.

UVA’s Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction (on-campus or online), Ed.D. in Higher Education , and Ed.D. in Administration & Supervision also contain a research-based capstone, which looks very much like a dissertation in practice. In other words, you’ll be able to tackle a problem of importance to practitioners. In order to graduate, UVA will also expect you to develop solutions, make recommendations, and communicate your findings to the appropriate audiences.

Doctoral Education Funding in Virginia

Internal scholarships, fellowships & awards.

A number of Virginia universities & colleges have stepped up to the plate to offer institutional aid to doctoral students (i.e. internal fellowships, scholarships, tuition breaks, etc.). Big schools such as UVA often have more funding than small schools, but be sure to check out the discounts available at Liberty and Regent. You’ll probably need to supplement these sources with external aid (e.g. federal & private loans, tuition reimbursement etc.). The Office of Financial Aid can provide advice.

College of William and Mary

W&M offers an Executive Ed.D., so it’s unlikely that any of the School of Education’s Educational Policy, Planning & Leadership Awards will apply. However, you may want to ask the program coordinator/director about the Martha L. Muguira Fellowship for Hispanic or Latino women. The School also has a general section on Financial Aid, Scholarships, Assistantships .

Liberty University

Liberty University Online (LUO) has a section on Scholarship Opportunities (internal & external), with detailed info about LUO Scholarships & Discounts . There have been lots of awards in recent years—check to make sure all offers are still current. When it comes to discounts:

• Military receive a 50% discount or more on graduate tuition.
• First Responders receive a 25% tuition discount.
• Canadians taking Liberty University Online courses receive a 15% discount.
• Students who are affiliated with eligible companies or organizations receive a 15% tuition discount.
• Word of Life employees receive a 50% discount on tuition for undergraduate and graduate programs.

In the realm of scholarships and awards:

• Two pastors (one senior; one youth) from Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia (SBCV) and West Virginia Convention of Southern Baptists (WVCSB) are eligible for a 100% tuition award.
• Modest Virginia Army National Guard (VaARNG) Scholarships are awarded to current National Guard soldiers.

LUO also offers a payment plan .

Regent University

Regent has a rundown of Institutional Aid , with info on:

• School of Education Financial Aid and the Selig Fellowship for Ed.S. and doctoral students who are willing to reside in Virginia Beach.
• Regent-Wide Endowed Scholarships —Christian leaders in the regions of eastern and southeast Asia should apply for the Hulford Scholarship.
• Church Matching Grant Program
• Corporate Partner Tuition Discounts for employees of certain companies and organizations (e.g. City of Virginia Beach).

Military & veterans can have a look at the section on Military Admissions & Aid . Active duty, reservists, veterans, and others receive a 25% discount on doctoral programs; spouses & dependents receive a 15% discount.

Shenandoah University

Shenandoah has created a section on Financial Aid for Incoming Graduate and Doctoral Students , with details on loans, the Cost of Attendance, Graduate Scholarships & Tuition Discounts , and Graduate Assistantships . In recent years, all Shenandoah University graduate education students received a substantial per credit tuition discount .

University of Virginia

On its Ed.D. program pages (e.g. Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction ), the Curry School of Education and Human Development notes that departmental funding is available on a competitive basis to full-time on-the-ground Ed.D. students (i.e. assistantships and tuition remission/tuition adjustment). See the section on Financial Aid for Doctoral Students for more details.

Be sure to apply for any relevant Curry Scholarships, Fellowships & Awards (especially departmental ones)—there are plenty of opportunities for doctoral students. The Curry School also offers UVA Employee Funding . However, students enrolled in doctoral programs are not eligible for the PreK-12 educator tuition rate.

Virginia Commonwealth University

The School of Education (SOE) has a comprehensive section devoted to Financial Aid & Scholarships , which includes details on graduate assistantships for doctoral students and student employment for graduate students. Check with the program coordinator to see if Ed.D students are eligible for SOE graduate & doctoral scholarships . VCU employees can also examine the terms of the VCU Employee Tuition Benefit .

Virginia State University

VSU has some general advice on Financial Assistance for Graduates and the College of Graduate Studies has details on Graduate Assistantships , but we didn’t find a lot beyond those pages. When in doubt, talk to the program coordinator about award possibilities.

Virginia Tech

Start with the School of Education’s helpful section on Scholarships and Awards , which lists graduate program-specific scholarships in education. You can also use this section to find info on:

• College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences Graduate Scholarships
• Graduate School Fellowships and Scholarships
• The Diversity Scholars Program
• Types of Aid for Graduate Students —According to the program pages, Ed.D. students are eligible for funding through assistantships.
• In-State Tuition Waivers

In particular, elementary education professionals should take a look at the Carol A. Brown Memorial Scholarship for current students of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. You can also check with the Bursar’s Office or program coordinator to see if Ed.D. students are eligible for the Reduced Tuition for K-12 Teachers in VA benefit.

Note: If a university name is missing from the list, we didn’t find specific examples of Ed.D. funding beyond private & federal loans and external aid.

Licensure & Endorsement Requirements in Virginia

Administrative licensure & endorsement.

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) handles licensure & endorsements for all public school educators in the Commonwealth.

• Administration & Supervision PreK-12 Endorsement: This is the typical credential for building-level leaders. In Section 620 of the Administrative Code, you’ll find a full list of endorsement requirements for both Level I and Level II.
• Division Superintendent License: This is the typical credential for superintendents. In Section 630 of the Administrative Code, you’ll find a full list of licensure requirements.

We’ve also provided short summaries below. You’ll notice that some Virginia superintendents earn an Ed.D. or Ph.D. in educational administration or leadership in order to fulfill the education requirement for licensure. Radford offers one such program.

Note: VDOE’s section on Licensure has reciprocity instructions for out-of-state candidates.

Administration & Supervision PreK-12 Level I Endorsement

The Level I endorsement is required to serve as a building-level administrator or central office supervisor in Virginia. To earn it, you must:

• Hold a master’s degree from a regionally-accredited college or university.
• Complete a state-approved program in administration and supervision from a regionally-accredited college or university (e.g. M.Ed., Ed.S., graduate certificate, etc.).
• Complete a deliberately structured and supervised internship (minimum of 320 clock hours) that provides exposure to multiple sites (elementary, middle, high, central office, agency) with diverse student populations; this is often incorporated into the state-approved education program.
• Pass the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) ; individuals who are interested in serving as central office instructional personnel are not required to take this test.
• Have three years of successful, full-time experience in a public school or accredited non-public school in an instructional personnel position that requires licensure in Virginia.
• Be recommended by a Virginia school division superintendent.

Note: The VDOE outlines alternate education routes to this endorsement in Section 620 .

Administration & Supervision PreK-12 Level II Endorsement

Level II (Principal of Distinction) is an optional endorsement for experienced building-level administrators. To earn it, you must:

• Hold a Level I endorsement (unrestricted).
• Have successfully served as a building-level administrator for at least five years in a public school or accredited non-public school.
• Complete a formal induction program (or alternative activity) as a principal or assistant principal.
• Meet various performance criteria and submit a portfolio of evidence as proof.

Division Superintendent License

There are four pathways to the Division Superintendent License. In the first route, you must:

• Earn a doctorate degree in educational administration or educational leadership from a regionally accredited college or university.
• Have completed five years of educational experience in a public or an accredited non-public school; two of those years should be successful, full-time teaching experience at the preK-12 level and two should be in administration and supervision at the preK-12 level.

However, the three alternate routes don’t require a doctorate. Master’s graduates with an existing Administration & Supervision PreK-12 Level I Endorsement, experience in senior leadership positions, and/or valid out-of-state superintendent licensure should look at Section 630 carefully.

Educational Leadership Jobs in Virginia

Educational leadership career outlook.

The government’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tracks employment & salary data for elementary & secondary school education administrators and postsecondary education administrators in every state. If you’d like a glimpse into the future, the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) issues Long and Short-Term Virginia Occupational Projections with the same search terms as the BLS (e.g. Education Administrators, Postsecondary).

Generally speaking, Virginia—like its neighbor, North Carolina—employs a substantial number of elementary & secondary school education administrators . Thanks to its strategic location, the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metropolitan area has some of highest employment levels of this category in the country. We also want to mention that the VDOE issues statistics & reports on public schools in Virginia, including School Quality Profiles and the Superintendent’s Annual Report . This will give you a microscopic view of your potential workplace.

Employment levels for Virginia postsecondary education administrators are also solid—the VEC is predicting this occupation to grow quite a bit in a ten-year period. Intriguingly, the Harrisonburg VA metropolitan area often has a dense concentration of jobs, possibly thanks to James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University, and Bridgewater College. You can view the entire higher education landscape by visiting the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and its section on Research & Statistics .

Educational Leadership Salaries

You’ll find annual mean wages for education administrators listed in BLS’s section on State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates for Virginia . Compared to the rest of the nation, salaries for Virginia elementary & secondary school education administrators are healthy. You can find exact numbers in the VDOE’s section on Education Workforce Data & Reports, which provides links to Teacher Salary Reports. These annual reports include principal and assistant principal salaries, which are listed by public school.

It’s a similar wage story for Virginia postsecondary education administrators : good, if not outstanding. The real hotspot is the Charlottesville VA metropolitan area—this is often one of the highest paying areas for this occupation in the country. It’s also home to the University of Virginia, which may have something to do with this phenomenon.

Educational Leadership Job Boards

Regular job sites (e.g. LinkedIn, HigherEdJobs, SchoolSpring, Indeed, etc.) will advertise openings for educational leadership positions in Virginia. Here are a few more state-specific job sites that may prove more helpful.

• TeachVirginia lists Employment Opportunities for Virginia administrators, including principals, directors, deans, superintendents, and more.
• VAESP posts Job Opportunities for Virginia principals.
• VASSP posts Job Openings for middle & high school principals, superintendents, directors, and more.
• VASBO’s Career Center contains opportunities for Virginia school business officials.
• The Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS) maintains a Career Center with job listings.
• In its Careers section, the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) lists job openings in community colleges.

Educational Leadership Organizations in Virginia

Educational leadership associations.

• Virginia Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (VACRAO) : VACRAO supports registrars, admission officers, and records administrators in Virginia colleges, universities, and other institutions of higher education.
• Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals (VAESP) : VAESP is a professional organization serving elementary & middle school principals and other education leaders.
• Virginia Association of School Business Officials (VASBO) : VASBO is a statewide membership organization in Virginia for school business officials.
• Virginia Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (VASCD) : VASCD is a membership organization dedicated to advancing excellence in Virginia’s schools. It’s a state affiliate of the ASCD. Members include teachers, superintendents, university professors, building leaders, teacher education students, and central office leaders.
• Virginia Association of Student Financial Aid Administrations (VASFAA) : VASFAA is an organization composed of financial aid professionals from all sectors of postsecondary education in Virginia.
• Virginia Association of School Personnel Administrators (VASPA) : VASPA serves as the statewide hub for Virginia’s K-12 Human Resources professionals.
• Virginia Association of School Superintendents (VASS) : VASS is a non-profit professional organization dedicated to the mission of providing leadership and advocacy for public education in Virginia.
• Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals (VASSP) : VASSP is the seventh largest school administrators’ organization in the NASSP state affiliation network.
• Virginia Education Association (VEA) : VEA is the largest organization of professional educators in Virginia. It has 50,000+ members who are involved in public schools. It’s a state affiliate of the NEA.
• Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) : VSBA is a voluntary, non-partisan organization of Virginia school boards. It often works closely with superintendents.
• Virginia School Counselor Association (VSCA) : VSCA promotes excellence in the profession of school counseling. It provides member support through professional development, advocacy, leadership, accountability, and collaboration.

Educational Leadership Professional Groups

• Virginia Foundation for Educational Leadership (VFEL) : VFEL is a non-profit organization that was created to link all education levels—preschool, elementary, middle, high school, and higher education—through a seamless system of leadership learning.
• Women Education Leaders in Virginia (WELV) : WELV is a non-profit organization that supports women members in all areas of education in Virginia. It’s affiliated with the Curry School at UVA.

Note: Remember that state and national educator organizations often have funds and scholarships available for continuing education (e.g. Ed.D.). Check the website and ask about opportunities.

Educational Leadership Events in Virginia

Educational leadership conferences.

• VAESP Annual Conference : Held in June, this three-day event for elementary & middle school educational leaders includes breakout session, keynotes, awards, and more.
• VASBO Conferences : VASBO hosts three networking & professional development events: a Fall Conference in November, a Winter Conference in January, and a Spring Conference in May.
• VASCD Annual Conference : This event in December attracts educators and educational leaders who are interested in issues surrounding learning, curriculum development, and school improvement.
• VASPA Conferences : VASPA hosts two professional development conferences for HR professionals and K-12 educational leaders each year: a Fall Conference in November and a Spring Conference in late April/early May. Its Educator Career Fairs are held concurrently.
• VASS Annual Fall Conference : VASS’s annual event for superintendents and district leaders typically occurs in late October.
• VASS-VASBO Annual Winter Conference : VASS also co-hosts a three-day event with Virginia school business officials in January.
• VASSP-VDOE-VFEL Annual Summer Conference : This four-day event for middle & high school principals and district leaders occurs in late June.
• VSBA Annual Convention : VSBA’s flagship event in November brings together 1000+ school board members, superintendents, and school division staff from across Virginia.
• VSBA Capital Conference : Each year in January, board members and superintendents meet at the Capitol when the General Assembly is in session to be briefed on education issues before the General Assembly and to learn effective lobbying techniques.
• VSBA School Law Conference : This annual event in early June provides an update on basic principles of school law and emerging issues. It attracts school board members, superintendents, and school board attorneys.
• WELV Annual Conference : WELV’s flagship event for women education leaders usually takes place over two days in March.

Educational Leadership Training

• VASS Professional Development : In addition to conferences, VASS organizes a range of workshops for superintendents and district leaders. Superintendents can also take advantage of the VASS Executive Coaching Service , the VASS/VA Tech Aspiring Superintendents Program , the VASS Communication Counselors on Call Service , the VASS Educational Services Review Program , and more.
• VASSP-VFEL Professional Program Series : Working with VDOE and VFEL, VASSP provides customized training programs for individual schools and school divisions.
• VFEL Professional Development Services : VFEL’s programs are intended to help school leaders strengthen their knowledge and abilities. Services include Mentoring & Coaching , the NISL Executive Development Program , Diagnostic Reviews & Consultations , short Law Updates Sessions , and more.
• VSBA Orientation for New Board Members, Superintendents and Vice-Chairs : This day-long conference is designed to give new board members and superintendents an overview of the basics of boardsmanship.
• VSBA Superintendent Evaluation Workshop : This workshop provides small group support to superintendents and board members who are responsible for updating their evaluation model.

School Listings

8 Schools Found

Department of Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership

Williamsburg, Virginia

EdD in Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership - International School Leadership

Offered Online

• Curriculum Info
• How To Apply

EdD in Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership - Gifted Education

Edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - higher education administration, edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - k-12 administration.

School of Education

Lynchburg, Virginia

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership

Jd/doctor of education dual degree, online doctor of education in community care and counseling - marriage and family counseling, online doctor of education in community care and counseling - pastoral care & counseling, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - elementary education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - middle grades education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - secondary education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - special education, online doctor of education in school administration and supervision, online edd in christian leadership - ministry leadership, radford university.

College of Graduate Studies and Research

Radford, Virginia

Online Doctor of Education

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Online Doctor of Education in Adult Education

Online doctor of education in advanced educational leadership, online doctor of education in christian education leadership, online doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, online doctor of education in educational psychology, online doctor of education in educational technology & online learning, online doctor of education in exceptional education executive leadership, online doctor of education in higher education, online doctor of education in higher education leadership and management, online doctor of education in k-12 school leadership, online doctor of education in special education.

School of Education and Human Development

Winchester, Virginia

EdD in Administrative Leadership

Edd in administrative leadership - initial administrative licensure, edd in administrative leadership - leadership in education.

Curry School of Education

Charlottesville, Virginia

EdD in Administration and Supervision

Edd in curriculum and instruction, edd in higher education.

Richmond, Virginia

Doctor of Education in Leadership

Doctor of education in leadership - general leadership, doctor of education in leadership - higher education leadership, online doctor of education in leadership, online doctor of education in leadership - general leadership, online doctor of education in leadership - higher education leadership.

Blacksburg, Virginia

EdD in Curriculum and Instruction - Elementary Education

Edd in curriculum and instruction - elementary education - pk-6, edd in curriculum and instruction - elementary education - reading and literacy, edd in curriculum and instruction - elementary education - teacher education, edd in curriculum and instruction - instructional design and technology, edd in curriculum and instruction - integrative stem education, edd in educational leadership and policy studies.

Radford University

College of Graduate Studies

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Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

• Certificates
• Endorsements

Dr. Maxwell Yurkofsky   Program Coordinator Office: A044 Phone: 540-831-5190 Email:  myurkofsky@radford.edu

Become an Academic Leader.

Radford University's Doctor of Education degree (Ed.D.) is designed to prepare educators to lead responsively and equitably in complex times. Whether you aspire to be a superintendent, administrator, or other organizational leader, we invite you to join us for the next step in your career. Student learning is framed around questions of equity, ethics, and social justice to bring about solutions to complex problems of practice in education and community organizations.

This 63 credit hour program includes courses in Practitioner Inquiry, Educational Leadership, Social Justice, Field Experiences, and Elective choices and is designed to be completed in three years as a part-time student.

Radford University is a member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate. We are committed to the Guiding Principles that frame the Professional doctorate in education:

• Our program is fully online and practitioner-focused providing convenience and flexibility for working professionals and can be completed in three years taking courses part-time.
• Prepares leaders who can construct and apply knowledge to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals, families, organizations, and communities.
• We use the latest in collaborative online technologies and modes of learning to give you the benefits of a traditional face-to-face program.
• Our program offers seven-week courses allowing you to focus on one course at a time and still complete two courses each semester.
• Our students complete a dissertation in practice that utilizes improvement science to address problems of practice.
• Our program meets the Virginia licensure requirements for the superintendency.
• Is grounded in and develops a professional knowledge base that integrates both practical and research knowledge, that links theory with systemic and systematic inquiry.

See Program Requirements provided in the University Graduate Catalog .

Note for applicants:

We begin a new cohort in January of each year. Applications are accepted from March 1 until November 1 for each cohort. 

Application Requirements

• A master's degree, in any field, from an accredited program; 
• An official transcript from each college or university from which you have earned a degree or post-baccalaureate credits.  An unofficial transcript is sufficient from all institutions where transfer credit was earned and may be uploaded directly to the application;
• Three letters of reference addressing your potential as a doctoral student; one must be from a current or most recent employer and one must be from a professor or instructor familiar with applicant’s academic work;
• your purpose for pursuing a doctoral degree,
• an issue or problem in your school or district that you believe can be addressed by applied research skills and scholarly inquiry,
• scholars and educational leaders who have influenced your thinking and practice, and
• your understanding of how doctoral education can help you lead educational change and bring necessary knowledge to bear on the needs of schools and communities. 
• An admission interview with the program coordinator will be requested of qualified candidates.

Seven-Week Courses

Students can focus on one course at a time and still complete two courses per semester. 

online program

The Ed. D. program is convenient and flexible for working professionals. Our latest collaboration software allows for "face-to-face" engagement with faculty and cohort members.

Practitioner-Focused

Ed. D. program courses, field experience and research are directly connected to solving complex problems of practice in schools.

Meet the Faculty

Dr. Maxwell Yurkofsky 

Assistant Professor Doctoral Program Program Coordinator Office: A044 Phone: 540-831-5190 Email:  myurkofsky@radford.edu

Dr. Sarah Capello Assistant Professor Doctoral Program Office: Peters Hall A025 Phone: 540-831-6850 Email:   scapello@radford.edu

Dr. Dan King Assistant Professor Doctoral Program Office: Peters Hall A028 Phone: 540-831-5244 Email:  [email protected]

Online Doctor of Education (EdD) Programs Empowering Leaders in Education through Advanced Research and Practice

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Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Become a Leader of Distinction in Education with One of Our Online Doctoral Programs in Education

Reach the pinnacle of your profession and impact the field of education with Liberty University’s online Doctor of Education (EdD) degree. In our online EdD programs, you’ll study education administration, curriculum development, learning theory, and the latest research to gain the advanced knowledge you need to positively influence the world of education. Check out our available online EdD programs .

Additionally, you’ll conduct your own research in order to provide practical solutions to challenges in the field of education with a capstone project. Liberty’s online doctorate in education is a model of high academic standards and leadership in education. With a degree like this, you can become better equipped to become an effective educational administrator, university faculty member, senior-level educational leader, or educational policymaker.

• By pursuing your doctorate at Liberty, you can better prepare for careers or career advancement in various school and administrative settings within the field of education.
• As you continue your studies with Liberty’s School of Education, you can be confident that you are receiving a quality education based on the principles of God’s Word.
• You can learn to be a positive influence in the lives of young people in your school and community and make an impact for Christ!

What is the Difference Between an EdD and a PhD in Education?

The biggest difference between an EdD and a PhD in education is the scope of the degree itself. While a PhD is primarily concerned with producing original research in the form of a dissertation, our EdD is designed so that you can complete exemplary research in the education field. As more of a practitioner’s degree, the EdD blends praxis and scholarship so that you can be better prepared to impact the field of education wherever you go. If you are more interested in producing original research to further the field of education, you may be interested in our  PhD in Education .

What Will You Study in a Doctorate in Education ?

The core content of our online EdD programs is designed to enhance your understanding of essential educational concepts while giving you practical classroom management tools. The online doctorate in education can help advance your skills in quantitative and qualitative methods of research, advanced learning theory, research skills, and provide many other essential competencies for advanced educators like yourself.

While completing a Liberty University doctoral program, you can choose specialized tracks to further equip you for an administrative role. We offer tracks in leadership, higher education, and curriculum and instruction, so you can pick the degree that gives you the right tools to achieve teaching excellence.

Degree Information

• This program falls under the  School of Education .
• View the  Graduate Education Course Guides  (login required).
• View the  Doctoral Advising Guide .

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• 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 Careers for Liberty’s EdD Doctoral Programs

• Curriculum specialist
• Elementary educator
• Gifted-student instructor
• Instructional supervisor
• Middle school educator
• School administrator
• Secondary school educator
• Special education instructor
• University professor

Degree Options for Our Online EdD Programs

We know that you have specific goals. With a wide offering of EdD programs, you can be confident in partnering with Liberty as you continue your educational journey.

Administration and Supervision – Educational Leadership

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Administration and Supervision – Educational Leadership  degree is designed to provide studies and training in the management of education organizations to help prepare you for licensed school administration.

Liberty maintains strict compliance with all licensure requirements for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Not a Virginia resident? We want to help find the best program for you! To view educational requirements and whether a specific program aligns with the licensure requirements for your state, please review our licensure/certification requirements webpage .

View the  Degree Completion Plan .

Curriculum and Instruction

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction  degree can help you build on your foundational knowledge and further master all aspects of education. This education doctorate gives you the flexibility and freedom to mix and match elective courses so you can create a personalized degree program that fits your passions and interests.

Curriculum and Instruction – Educational Psychology

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Educational Psychology  degree covers theories of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across the lifespan – enabling you to meet your students right where they are and provide the support they need to thrive. Through this program, you can become equipped to improve teaching and learning processes in your school using a fundamental understanding of how people learn and retain information.

Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education  degree is designed to equip you for a variety of teaching roles – including general education and community classroom settings. You will study various theories, models, and strategies as a practical guide to solve problems. In addition, you will explore research and instructional approaches for managing student behaviors effectively with an emphasis on individualized, classroom, and school-wide behavior support.

Curriculum and Instruction – Instructional Design and Technology

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Instructional Design and Technology  degree is designed to equip you for the modern classroom. By incorporating new technology and methods of instruction into the classroom, you can engage students in new and exciting ways. Your experience can also be valuable in settings outside of the classroom including corporate training, curriculum design, and as a leader in the educational technology field.

Curriculum and Instruction – Middle Grades Education

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Middle Grades Education  degree is designed to strengthen your teaching ability through individualized and collaborative professional development opportunities. You will study curriculum development, usage, and evaluation. Additionally, you will apply considerations of preadolescent physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development to various school processes and teacher interaction with middle school students and families.

Curriculum and Instruction – Online Teaching and Learning

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Online Teaching and Learning  degree covers a variety of advanced educational topics, specifically those that can prepare you for roles in online programs. In this degree, you will study trends in learning technologies and curriculum and instruction. You will also study curriculum theory, applied research methods, and much more!

Curriculum and Instruction – Secondary Education

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Secondary Education  degree addresses curriculum function, development, and evaluation. Our program is designed to provide you with a detailed overview of technology usage in the classroom as it relates to student learning, the effectiveness of administrative processes, and service to students and parents. You will also study various theories, models, and strategies as a practical guide to solving problems.

Curriculum and Instruction – Special Education

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Special Education  degree is designed to help you analyze processes for assessing students with special needs. Additionally, you will develop ways of effectively using various technology for communication and collaboration as you improve classroom instruction. You can learn to use different theories, models, and strategies as a practical guide to solving problems.

Educational Leadership

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership  degree is designed to train you on best practices in education and technology to help you enhance student learning, become a competent administrator, and best serve your students and their parents. This program focuses on translating classroom theory into real-world application and is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to effectively lead and manage in an educational environment.

Higher Education Administration – Assessment and Evaluation

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration – Assessment and Evaluation  degree covers research-based approaches to analyzing student learning, curricula, academic programs, student services, and institutional structures. In this program, you’ll explore how to help colleges and universities maintain high standards of quality and accreditation so that their students receive the best education possible.

Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership  degree can help you strengthen your leadership skills and advance your career in postsecondary education administration. You will analyze the major challenges facing today’s educational leaders and explore methods for helping colleges and universities thrive.

Higher Education Administration – Organizational Leadership

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration – Organizational Leadership  degree is designed to provide training in university administration and advanced business topics. You can develop essential skills in business management and use your business knowledge to help your college or education-related organization thrive.

Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs  degree can help you learn how to support college students’ personal, professional, and academic development. That way, you can help them develop essential skills for navigating challenges in school – and in life.

Instructional Design and Technology

Liberty University’s online Doctor of Education in  Instructional Design and Technology  investigates the intersection of education, technology, and creativity. You can gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become a leader in designing and implementing effective educational strategies using cutting-edge technology.

Special Education

Liberty University’s online  Doctor of Education in Special Education  degree can help you learn how to manage and construct educational programs geared for those students with additional educational needs. You can have a profound impact on the lives of your students with the concepts you can master in this program.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

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.

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Liberty’s Online Doctoral Programs in Education

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 must submit a copy of their current initial state teaching or school counseling license to  [email protected] .
• 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
• Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for EdS and EdD courses
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course)
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you get a doctorate in education.

Through Liberty University’s online EdD programs, you will have the opportunity to engage with knowledgeable education professionals who want to mentor and help you to become an advanced educator, administrator, and researcher. Our doctorate in education offers a robust, theoretical framework that can advance your teaching methods and theories to a higher order of application, allowing you to evaluate and address teaching challenges in K-12 institutions and at the university level.

Is a Doctorate in Education worth it?

Yes – we think so! You can be better prepared to pursue a career as a leader in education

• Throughout the program, you can network with your peers and professors while developing your writing and research for the final capstone project phase.
• Completing an online EdD gives you a terminal educational credential that shows employers you have reached the pinnacle of your field’s achievement.

What can Liberty’s doctoral programs do for you?

Liberty University’s doctoral programs can offer you advanced academic training and practical skills that align with your professional aspirations and personal values. These programs are designed to enhance your expertise in a specific field, such as education, business, or divinity, enabling you to contribute to academic knowledge, apply practical solutions in real-world settings, and ascend to higher positions in your career.

You can benefit from flexible learning options, including online courses that allow you to balance your studies with personal and professional responsibilities. Liberty’s commitment to integrating ethical and faith-based principles into its curriculum can also provide you with a unique perspective that is valued in many professional settings. Additionally, you’ll have opportunities to engage with experienced faculty and like-minded peers, expanding your professional network and gaining support that can be crucial for both academic and career advancement.

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Doctorate in Education Degrees in Virginia

The Doctorate of Education or Ed.D is attained through rigorous training in advanced research and learning theories that allow graduates to achieve organizational skills, policy creation and as an agent of change in leadership. Scholarly practitioners contribute to educational strategies and publish research studies that shape the future of education.

An Ed.D in Virginia is a highly respected and valued degree that shows you are a dedicated intellectual with a passion for teaching on all levels of education. EducationDegree.com can help you decide which EdD is best for your career trajectory. Use our comprehensive resources to contact schools about their doctorate in education programs and make the right choice.

Earning Your Ed.D in Virginia

Your area of expertise is the focus of your curriculum in a well-designed program. You may choose another direction or fortify your existing teaching certification. Depending on your certification or area of mastery, you may choose from many specialties in education such as:

• General Education
• International Education
• Administration, Organization and Policy
• Educational Leadership

You may design your curriculum through carefully planned courses that identify your interests and focus. Your program can include a dissertation or educational project. Core courses in your curriculum may include subjects such as:

• Quantitative Analysis of Policy
• Human Growth and Development in Education
• Educational Research and Leadership

Outlook for Graduates in Virginia

Doctoral prepared teachers who work in elementary and secondary schools may experience a higher level of autonomy for their classrooms and receive an increase in salary. Administrative bound teachers who desire a position as principal in a public school can expect an average salary of $91,034 as reported by the Virginia Department of Education .

As a university professor, you may be employed in a wide variety of academic disciplines at four year colleges and universities. Professors deliver education through lectures, class assignments and the design of curriculum and programs. Directors of student services that are in charge of student admissions, counseling and career services can experience an excellent position as an Ed.D graduate.

Community colleges are also in need of excellent educators in Virginia. A majority of students are educated in local colleges and require the attention and resources needed to create a high level of educational resources. Jill Biden teaches in Northern Virginia Community College and discusses her dedication to her doctorate studies, her teaching philosophy and the needs of her students in an article presented by Newsweek .

Graduates may also enter the nontraditional private sector of education. Corporations offer lucrative and extraordinary opportunities for talented teachers with advance degrees. Companies such as Zantech IT Services, Innotion Enterprises and Veterans Enterprise Technology Solutions provide rewarding positions for educators who organize teaching programs, design curriculum and evaluate strategies for educating employees and clients.

The Benefits of Achieving an Ed.D

An Ed.D is an excellent endeavor that defines your commitment to academic success and a dedication to teaching on a societal level. A doctoral prepared teacher is prepared to venture passed the classroom and become a visionary on a larger scale. As a sophisticated teacher and intellectual, your doctorate can create opportunities, self-confidence and the resources to change the field of education on a global or societal level.

Take some time to review our listings of schools that offer doctorate in education programs for students in Virginia. Remember, it’s best to contact multiple schools to compare the learning outcomes and benefits they offer for students and graduates.

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About the Mathematics Education Doctoral Program

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The School of Education at Virginia Tech offers a doctoral program in Curriculum and Instruction with emphasis in Mathematics Education . Our program at Virginia Tech unites faculty and students from the College of Science's Mathematics Department and the School of Education . Our research focuses on understanding how students learn mathematics, which informs curriculum design, teaching practices, and assessment instruments. We seek to establish equitable learning environments that take advantage of current research and technology.

The Mathematics Education Doctoral Program is primarily designed to prepare researchers and higher education faculty. The possible career paths could be but not limited to faculty positions in post-secondary education and for leadership positions in secondary education.

WHAT YOU'LL STUDY

The Mathematics Education Doctoral Program focuses on original research, preparing students for research and teaching in a context that is rigorous, collegial, and cooperative. 

Students enrolled in the doctoral program must pass four exams and submit a dissertation as part of the degree requirements.

• Qualifying Exam
• Preliminary Exam
• Final Examination

Plan of Study

Doctoral candidates will work closely with their advisor to craft a Plan of Study. The Plan of Study for Mathematics Education doctoral students must include the following minimum requirements:

• Concentration: 24+ hours
• Research Methods: 18+ hours
• Foundations: 12+ hours
• Content: 6+ hours
• Research & Dissertation 30+ credit hours

Concentration (24+ credit hours):

Mathematics Courses

MATH 5624: Research on Mathematical Knowing & Learning

Math 5634: research in undergraduate mathematics education.

Education Courses

• EDCI 5734: Graduate Seminar: Critical Analysis of Mathematics Education Research
• EDCI 5714: Graduate Seminar: Advanced Topics in Mathematics Education

Additional Curriculum & Instruction courses (EDCI courses) will be decided on in consultation with your advisor. Past favorites have been:

• EDCI 5784: Graduate Seminar: Exploring Teacher Education Curriculum

EDCI 5804: STEM Education Foundations

Edci 5814: stem education pedagogy, edci 5824: stem education trends & issues.

Research (18+ credit hours)

EDRE 6605: Quantitative Research Methods in Education I

Edre 6606: quantitative research methods in education ii, edre 6504: qualitative methods in educational research i, edre 6524: qualitative methods in educational research ii.

Additional courses in Educational Research (EDRE courses) will be decided upon in consultation with your advisor. Past favorites have been:

EDRE 5404: Foundations of Educational Research and Evaluation

Edre 5674: introduction to mixed methods, edre 6634/stat 6634: advanced statistics for education, edre 6654: multivariate statistics for applications to educational problems.

• EDRE 6694: Hierarchical Linear Modeling        

Foundations (12+ credit hours)

EDEP 5114: Learning and Cognition

Edep 6224: constructivism and education.

Additional courses in Foundations will be decided upon in consultation with your advisor. Past favorites have been:

EDCI 5104: Schooling in American Society

Edci 6024: analysis of educational concepts, edep 6114: cognitive processes, edep 6444: motivation and cognition.

• There are others; check online in the EDIT (Instructional Design & Technology), EDEP (Educational Psychology), and EDCI (Curriculum & Instruction) sections of the graduate catalog.

Mathematical Content Courses (6+ credit hours) Courses in Mathematics (MATH) or Statistics (STAT) will be decided upon in consultation with your advisor. Past favorites have been:

MATH 4625: Mathematics for Secondary Teachers I

Math 4626: mathematics for secondary teachers ii, math 4644: secondary school mathematics with technology, dissertation.

The Ph.D. degree in Mathematics Education is not awarded solely on the basis of coursework completion. To graduate, each student must also conduct an original research study culminating in the presentation and defense of a dissertation. The dissertation demonstrates the student’s ability to investigate a practical issue in mathematics education agreed upon by one’s dissertation chair and advisory committee. 

The majority of students write their dissertations in the traditional five-chapter format (i.e., as a research paper with an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion).  Other options such as a journal article dissertation are available.  Students work with the dissertation chairs and committees to determine the best format for their  dissertation.

Course Descriptions

A study of the people and forces that impact on American education, analyzing the social setting of schooling and the relationships among school, curriculum, clients, personnel, and culture.

Credit Hour(s): 3

Lecture Hour(s): 3

Level: Graduate

EDCI 5714: Advanced Topics in Mathematics Education

Close examination of a discipline, topic, or group of questions in mathematics education. Examples include construction of number, teaching and learning of probability and statistics, understanding quantitative literacy. Explore current research, different conceptions and construction of knowledge on topic. Data collection and analysis on topic. May be repeated three times with different content for a maximum of twelve credits. Pre: Graduate standing.

EDCI 5734: Critical Analysis of Mathematics Education Research

Classical, seminal, and current works in the field of mathematics education. Mathematics education research. Theoretical frameworks, methodologies, claims and implications. Pre: Graduate Standing.

Provides an introduction to the nature of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, and their corresponding STEM education disciplines; the inherent connections, confluences, and differences among the STEM and STEM education disciplines; the frameworks, standards, and infrastructures that govern the teaching of these subjects in K-16 STEM education; and other social, political, theoretical, and philosophical ideas and influences that underlie K-16 STEM education. Graduate standing required.

Provides an ordered investigation into the instructional practices and signature pedagogies of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines as a means for developing purposefully integrative approaches for teaching/learning the content of these disciplines. Through study of the epistemologies, philosophies, strengths, and limitations associated with STEM signature pedagogies, students come to know a set of blended pedagogical practices that serve to enhance individual practices within their chosen fields. Graduate standing required.

An exploration of contemporary K-16 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education trends and issues, including both integrative and within-discipline STEM education trends/issues. Topics addressed include STEM literacy, integrative approaches to STEM education, the changing role of design and inquiry in STEM education, STEM education-related legislation, change theory, state and federal funding, and extracurricular STEM education initiatives. Graduate standing required.

Systematic introduction to the study of contemporary philosophy of education, indicating ways in which philosophy is used to analyze educational aims, content, methods, and values.

EDCI 7994: Research & Dissertation

Credit Hour(s): 1 TO 19

Lecture Hour(s):

Research and evaluation in education with emphasis on development of skill requisite for utilizing research and evaluation studies in practical situations. Applies these skills in exercises related to various research and evaluation models.

Introduction to Mixed Methods research and evaluation in applied social and behavioral sciences, including education, human development, sociology, and medicine. Mixed methods are used to collect and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data.

This course provides an introduction to qualitative research methods. It considers mainstream qualitative research traditions, including case study, phenomenology, ethnography, grounded theory, and participatory research. Students will conduct observations, interviews and basic data analysis.

This course provides an advanced examination of qualitative inquiry in educational and human science research. It considers theoretical assumptions of major qualitative research traditions and provides students advanced skills in data analysis and representation.

This two-course sequence is designed to provide an overview of basic research design, measurement and statistical concepts in social and behavioral research. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the process of social and educational research in field settings, hands on experience of designing and conducting research and analysis of data.

Multiple regression procedures for analyzing data as applied in educational settings, including curvilinear regressions, dummy variables, multicollinearity, and introduction to path analysis.

Multivariate statistical procedures presented in an applied research setting. Oriented toward the logical extension of univariate tests of significance and estimation procedures to multivariate problems. Emphasis on using existing computer software packages.

EDRE 6694: Hierarchical Linear Modeling

Provides a conceptual framework of hierarchical linear modeling (HLM), some important statistical theory behind the HLM, and hands-on training for applying HLM technique through analyzing example data sets and projects. The course includes the formulation of statistical models for typical applications such as two-level organizational study, two-level growth model, and three-level growth model within contexts and prepares students to be able to use multilevel analysis to address research questions in their fields and write coherent summaries and interpretations of the results.

Psychological theories and models which serve as a basis for educational models and practice. Emphasis on conceptions of learning and cognitive process. Pre: Graduate standing.

Investigates complex human learning from the perspective of cognitive/information processing theories. Emphasizes methods of investigation in cognitive science as well as strategies for using a cognitive orientation in educational settings.

Philosophical, theoretical, and empirical foundations of the broad field of constructivism, including the limits of epistemology and ontology, the determination of truth and reality, and applications to education and everyday life. Emphasis on radical constructivism, social constructivism, symbolic interactionism, social constructionism, and cognitive constructivism, and their applications to education.

Explores current research in the field of motivation as it relates to educational settings. Students will learn how motivation constructs relate to student behavior and cognition, how to select appropriate strategies to motivate students, and how to design measures to assess student motivation.

Methods for conducting scientific research on how K-12 students learn mathematics. Students will develop skills for designing and conducting such research across various domains of mathematical learning, such as whole numbers, fractions, algebra, and calculus. Pre: Graduate Standing.

Research on undergraduate mathematics education. Student understanding of particular concepts from undergraduate math courses, from calculus to abstract algebra. Student engagement in mathematical practices, such as proving and defining, that transcend particular course concepts. Pre: Graduate Standing.

Course activities will emphasize the curricular themes of problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections, and representation. 4625: Topics in discrete mathematics and algebra from a secondary teaching perspective. Pre: 3034. (3H,3C)

Course activities will emphasize the curricular themes of problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections, and representation. 4626: Topics in trigonometry, geometry, measurement, statistics, and probability from a secondary teaching perspective. Pre: 3034. (3H,3C)

Use and impact of technology in secondary mathematics curriculum. Various technologies including graphing calculators, calculator based laboratory and probes (CBLs), computer algebra systems, spreadsheets, dynamic geometry software and the Internet will be used to explore secondary mathematical concepts from an advanced viewpoint. Pre: 3034. (3H,3C)

Math education faculty and students regularly engage in research and scholarship, including engagement with the following organizations:

• Eisenhower National Clearinghouse for Math and Science Education
• The Office for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education (UIUC)
• Journal for Research in Mathematics Education
• Journal of Mathematics Teacher Education
• Mathematical Thinking and Learning
• Teaching Children Mathematics
• Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School
• School Science and Mathematics
• The Journal of Mathematical Behavior
• The Mathematics Educator
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
• Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics
• Mathematical Association of America
• School Science and Mathematics Association
• American Educational Research Association
• SIG/Research in Mathematics Education
• The International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education (PME-NA)
• Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators
• National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics

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Science Education: Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Graduates of the Ph.D. in education with a concentration in science education program are prepared for careers in university settings or research organizations.

At a Glance

Program results.

Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Education

–Science Education

Career Objective

Graduates will be well prepared for employment in fields and programs where the emphasis is on the production of scholarship, rather than application to practice.

Best Suited To

Applicants possessing a relevant master’s degree (e.g., mathematics, a science, mathematics education, or science education), including a minimum of 12 graduate credits in mathematics or science, with at least two years of mathematics or science teaching experience.

Program Type

Estimated length, application deadline, about this program.

This program of study is designed to prepare graduates for college or university positions in science education or for positions within research organizations with specific areas of curricular expertise. The program includes coursework, a research apprenticeship, and practical experiences to prepare graduates to:

• produce original research that contributes to the knowledge base in science education or to teacher education in general
• educate teachers in the area of science and evidence-based practice
• provide effective leadership in the field of science education.

The primary purpose of the Ph.D. program is to prepare highly qualified scholar-researchers who will be able to take a variety of positions in higher education settings (both public and private). Graduates will be well prepared for employment as research scholars, policy analysts, and faculty members in higher education programs where the emphasis is on the production of scholarship, rather than application to practice.

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Program Overview

Admission requirements.

Admission requirements that apply specifically to this program are listed below:

• Applicants must possess a relevant master’s degree (e.g., mathematics, a science, mathematics education, or science education), including a minimum of 12 graduate credits in mathematics or science.
• Applicants must have at least two years of mathematics or science teaching experience.
• Submit a goal statement (2 pages). A writing sample is not required.

Visit our  Graduate Admission  page for the full admission process.

Graduate Admission

Application for admission is made to the School of Education and Human Development Office of Admission & Enrollment. For more information about the graduate admission process, please visit our Graduate Admission page.

To learn more about specific courses taken as part of the completion of this degree, visit the graduate record website. These webpages represent the official repository for academic program requirements. 

The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 72 credits, at least 54 of which must be coursework. This coursework requirement includes concentration area courses and research methodology courses, and up to 3 credits of research apprenticeship per semester, but does not include internship and dissertation credits. At least 36 course and apprenticeship credits must be completed after admission to the program. Students can apply up to 12 credits of dissertation work towards the total of 72.

Research Methodology Coursework:  Ph.D. students will take Research Foundations, an introductory course in educational research common to all EHD doctoral students. Additionally, students are required to take a minimum of three courses in quantitative methods (generally Stats I, II, and III) and two courses in qualitative research methodology (e.g., Qualitative Analysis I and II). Advisors may suggest additional methodology courses, depending on the focus of a student’s individual program and research.

Research Apprenticeship:  All Mathematics/Science/STEM Ph.D. students will participate in a research apprenticeship with their research mentors. This apprenticeship will occupy approximately 10 hours of each student’s week during the first and second years of study and may increase during the third and fourth years, depending on the student’s specific duties. During this apprenticeship, the student will assist with the mentor’s research and scholarship, which may include data collection, data analysis, library research, presentations, writing for publication, and other related activities.

Education of Teachers Internships/Apprenticeships:  Mathematics/Science/STEM Ed Ph.D. students are expected to participate in internships that enable them to understand the workings of university-level teacher preparation. These internships consist of, but are not limited to, the following: supervision of student teachers, serving as a graduate teaching assistant, serving as the instructor for a pre-service or master’s level course, assisting the Director of Teacher Education, working with the novice teachers network, designing and evaluating curriculum for P-12 programs, working with clinical instructors and cooperating teachers, supervising early field experiences, serving as a connection between the schools and university in developing early field experiences, etc.

Assessment:  Assessment of student progress through the Ph.D. program will be multifaceted and includes components conducted by faculty and by students themselves.

Student Annual Report:  Annually, each Ph.D. student will complete an annual report describing their growth and accomplishments.

Preliminary Exam:  In the second semester of the first year of study, all Ph.D. students will complete a preliminary exam, which is designed to determine the likelihood of the student’s continued success in Ph.D. studies. This exam consists of two parts. The first is a paper on a topic of significance in the field. The second is an oral exam in which students present the paper and a critique of a research article they have been given one week previously.

Pre-dissertation research manuscript:  All Ph.D. students, prior to their third year of study, will complete a pre-dissertation research project that results in a manuscript submitted for review in a peer-reviewed journal. There is no requirement that the paper be accepted for publication, but students are strongly encouraged to revise manuscripts if resubmission is likely to result in publication. Research mentors will work with students to shape these papers toward eventual publication; co-authored papers are acceptable.

Qualifying Examination:  All students will complete a written comprehensive examination to demonstrate understanding of the knowledge base and methodology in a concentration area of teacher education and demonstrate readiness to undertake doctoral dissertation research. The examination will be graded independently by at least two faculty members. With approval of the Teacher Education graduate program, a research manuscript accepted for publication may be used to satisfy part of the qualifying examination

Dissertation:  All Ph.D. students will complete a dissertation proposal and a dissertation following either the traditional model or the three-paper option described in the EHD Dissertation Manual.

Course Descriptions

Information on courses that are part of the Ph.D. in Education-Science Education curriculum can be found on the UVA graduate record website.

Departmental fellowships and assistantships are provided to a select number of applicants each year. A typical funding package includes funding for nine months in a combination of wages and stipends, tuition and all mandatory fees, and funds to cover student health insurance costs. The University also offers a limited number of competitive fellowships for which students enrolled in Ph.D. programs may apply.

Visit the  Fellowships, Scholarships, and Awards  page for additional funding opportunities.

Science Education News

With Fulbright Award, UVA Professor Will Bring Science Education Model to Zambia

Frackson Mumba, an expert in engineering design-integrated science education, will spend 10 months researching and teaching at Copperbelt University in Kitwe, Zambia.

Robert H. Tai

• Associate Professor
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Bavaro Hall 209 PO Box 400273 417 Emmet Street S Charlottesville, VA 22903

Frackson Mumba

• 434-243-3651

Bavaro Hall 321 PO Box 400273 417 Emmet Street S Charlottesville, VA 22903

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Become a Change Agent With Marymount's Doctorate in Education Online

Online Coursework

100% online with the flexibility to balance school and life — no travel required.

Lead Positive Change

Strengthen your leadership skills and create a lasting impact in your organization or community.

Student Spotlight: Jéri L. Ogden

"I've had the ability to switch careers while I was in the program. I don't think my flexibility would have been the same had I decided to attend a program that was not online."

About the Program

Whether you want to make a difference in your organization or community, an online  Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation  will empower you as a change agent ready to initiate and inspire. 

Aligned with best practices and insights from influential thought leaders, the online Ed.D. at Marymount University equips you to drive positive change and greater outcomes in schools, communities, government, healthcare, and public and private organizations. 

• 100% Online  
• 48 credit hours 
• 8 consecutive semesters 
• New cohorts begin each fall and spring 
• Graduate in less than 3 years 
• No GRE/GMAT required

All applicants must have completed a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 2.75 GPA.  

To apply, you must complete a phone interview with an advisor and submit your online application with the following documents: 

• Official transcripts 
• Two professional references 
• Professional essay 
• Current resume with 3+ years of relevant experience 
• Virtual interview with a faculty member 

Marymount University’s fully online Ed.D. program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ).

As 1 of 135 Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate ( CPED ) universities, we provide quality and practical coursework that adheres to CPED’s best practices.

Our university is nationally recognized as a College of Distinction for Education, Business, Career Development, Military Support, and Equity & Inclusion

• Complete the form  for instant access to your program guide.  
• Connect with an advisor  via phone or email.  
• Apply to the program  and submit all required documents. 
• Study 100% online and graduate  in less than three years. 

Student Spotlight

"I was able to work with a co-worker, who is also in the Ed.D. program, on several assignments that were immediately put into practice."

Johnathan Harris ,

Ed.D. Graduate

"I plan to launch my leadership methodology called SPY2, a model for future leaders to use as they bring change within their organizations."

Pretty George ,

"I started The Learning Box International, a virtual after-school program for children. It was magical watching children learn and share experiences."

Somachi Kachikwu ,

Ed.D Student

Online Ed.D. Program Curriculum Snapshot

For a complete list of courses and course descriptions,  access your comprehensive digital program guide .

This course provides an overview of the theoretical framework for the practice of leadership in organizations leading to the application of theory and best practices in your educational leadership practice. We will also focus on specific leadership topics such as strategic leadership, systems thinking, team leadership, change management and developing others. We will move back and forth between theory and practice and include opportunities for self-reflection and skill development. (3 credits)

A focus on issues and practical applications of ethical principles of leadership, which includes a review of philosophical foundations as context for consideration of ethical issues and dilemmas. Towards this end, this course will evaluate the concept of justice in organizations, and the changing demographics of our society, especially related to race and culture, gender, age, disability and socio-economic status. Emphasis will be placed on effective organizational management of diversity for social justice outcomes. (3 credits)

The ability to transform and adapt as leaders to meet the demand of an ever-changing working environment is crucial. Continual growth and personal development are imperative for leaders to be successful in our complex global economy. This course facilitates the development of self, organization and community through enactment of adult learning theory as it relates to transformational leadership values. The scope of study includes analysis of transformational leadership theory and the development and implementation of leadership and change projects. (3 credits)

This writing intensive course covers the foundations of enacting leadership content gained thus far for the purpose of locating, developing, analyzing, synthesizing and constructing a sound literature review consistent with the research on the student’s chosen research topic. The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction to the practice of research and research design. This course provides students with opportunities to develop skills that are essential for conducting research and completing a research project with a particular focus on reviewing literature and composing a literature review paper. Students will demonstrate the ability to differentiate among alternative research viewpoints, differentiate constituent parts of the review, assess and comment on theories, thoughts, and ideas, concept proposals and relevant literature, and construct a cogent and compelling literature review. (3 credits)

Next Application Deadline:

• November 29, 2024 Spring 2025

Next Start Date:

• January 6, 2025 Spring 2025

A National Leader in Education

Influential. Historically Significant. Diverse. Located just six miles from the nation’s capital, Marymount University is positioned for you to make a lasting impact.

Designed for Change Agents

Generate, transform and apply leadership practices that lead to actionable change.

Dissertation in Practice (DIP)

Research and apply solutions to organizational challenges that are important to you.

Grounded in Ethics

Learn from thought leaders and courses grounded in ethics, social justice and equity.

Supportive & Diverse Network

Connect with well-educated faculty and a cohort of change agents across the nation.

Quality Coursework

Learn from 1 of 135 Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) universities.

Nationally Recognized

We are nationally distinguished as a College of Distinction in Education and Business.

School of Education Faculty

Dr. Paula Cristina Azevedo

Assistant Professor

Dr. Azevedo is experienced in teaching, advising, research and mindfulness.

Dr. Ruth Boyd

Visiting Professor

Dr. Boyd has 30+ years of teaching experience and has held multiple supervisory roles.

Dr. Jennifer Crystle

Dr. Crystle’s interests are global education policy, diversity, leadership and more.

Dr. Clara Hauth

Program Director and Associate Professor

Dr. Hauth is experienced in special education, graduate instruction, teacher training and more.

Dr. Jessica Marotta

Associate Professor

Dr. Marotta’s research interests are leadership, assessment and preservice teacher education.

Dr. Shannon Melideo

Dr. Melideo is experienced in mentorship, research, administration, education and more.

Applying our Online Ed.D. to your Career

An Ed.D. in Educational Leadership & Organizational Innovation can be applied to various industries. Here are some of the careers that our students pursued and are pursuing as they earned their Ed.D. degree.

• School Principal
• School Superintendent
• Business Owner
• Nonprofit Leader
• Leadership Coach
• Instructional Coach
• Training and Development Manager
• Special Education
• Policy Maker
• Educational Technology & Policy
• Curriculum Specialist

"I have never felt so included in a community of scholarship. All the faculty support you — from the very first course to the final dissertation."

Chris Valadez, Online Ed.D. Student

Discover Why Our Dissertation is Different

Faculty mentors who care and built-in program support are just the beginning. Unlike a traditional dissertation, Marymount Online Ed.D. students complete a dissertation in practice (DiP) that emphasizes applying research and theory to solve a problem of practice facing your organization or community. Click the button below to access your program brochure and learn how our dissertation and high-impact community transform leaders to make a lasting change.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Doctor of Education or Ed.D. is a terminal degree that connects academia with real-world situations. Ed.D. coursework prepares professionals  to lead change across diverse settings  by building a deeper understanding of teaching and learning.

An online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation equips professionals to achieve greater outcomes in schools, communities, government, healthcare, and public and private organizations.  Possible leadership roles could include :

• Chief Learning Officer
• Curriculum Director
• School Superintendent 

This part-time program is 100% online and requires 48 credit hours to graduate. It is possible to complete this degree in less than three years.

The online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation program costs $1,275 per credit hour, for a total tuition investment of $61,200.

Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. You are solely responsible to research and complete all required steps, forms and applications.

Funding can come from the federal government or private sources, such as banks or financial institutions. We encourage you to research other sources of funding such as  military and veteran benefits  or scholarships from organizations. Learn more about available financial aid options on our  Tuition and Financial Aid page .

Marymount’s online Ed.D. includes a dissertation designed to identify a relevant issue impacting your organization for the purpose of creating innovative solutions through research, theory and practice. Early in the program, you will be paired with a faculty advisor who will support and guide you through the Dissertation in Practice process.  Click Here  to learn more about the Marymount Ed.D. dissertation process.

A Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education are both terminal degrees that offer ample opportunities for leadership, learning and research.  The main difference between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.  is in professional pursuits after graduation. An Ed.D. has practical applications that may go outside of academia. A Ph.D. has a more scholarly concentration which, more often than not, culminates in research-based studies.

There is no GRE/GMAT required. To apply, you must complete an interview with a member of the Ed.D. faculty and submit the following:

• Transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.75 
• Two letters of recommendation 
• A personal essay

Connect With Us

Complete the form to access our comprehensive program guide with more details about our:

• World-class faculty
• Application process
• Unique student support

An admissions advisor will be in touch to answer your questions and help determine if Marymount is right for you.

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Ed.D. in Leadership

“from the first class, i realized that this program would work for people of any career. professionally, that lesson not only has given me confidence to approach my superiors and confidently challenge policy, but also has created opportunities for me in my workplace.” - james perkins, ed.d. ‘20.

The Ed.D. in Leadership is a 48-hour, 36-month program that is available online or face-to-face . The program is designed for mid-career working professionals and uses a cohort structure for accountability and community. Applicants should have a minimum of four years of professional experience and three years of leadership experience .

We center diversity, equity , inclusion, and belonging in collaborative, team-based projects to improve education and education-adjacent organizations. The curriculum includes action-oriented andragogy, the application of theory and research to practice, and focuses on addressing problems of practice in real-world contexts . The program concludes with a unique, year-long Capstone project , or dissertation-in-practice, in which a team of students work with a partner organization to address a problem of practice. 

The Department of Educational Leadership is a founding member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED).

Program Design and Delivery

Ed.D. courses are offered online or in a face-to-face/hybrid format. 

The Ed.D. is a three-year, cohort-based program beginning in the summer only .

Please note that all students must attend required summer in-person residencies (more info below). The Ed.D. program offers engaging and collaborative learning designed to accommodate the lives of our students, who are working professionals leading in a variety of organizations.  

Coursework includes key topic areas such as teaming skills, professional writing, organizational analysis, systems and culture change, leadership for equity, research methods for practitioners, policy, ethics, legal issues, and crisis leadership. 

In the first year, to build relationships and provide support for success in the program, regardless of the course modality, students must attend an in-person residency. Refer to the application checklist and online application for specific dates based on the year you apply. LC 28 (students starting the program in Summer 2025) has a residency June 6-7, 2025 in Richmond, VA. 

In the second year of the program, students complete a Formative Assessment to evaluate their progress relative to program student outcomes. The assessment requires additional time and work outside of classes to complete during summer two and the first month of the fall semester. Students also attend a required in-person residency July 25-26, 2026 in Richmond, VA..

In the third year of the program, students work under the supervision of a faculty chair in collaborative groups and with a community-based partner organization to develop a Capstone Project, or dissertation-in-practice, which includes an academic document and attendant presentations (prospectus hearing and final defense), as well as deliverables for the partner organization. There is no traditional individual dissertation option.

VCU BULLETIN INFO Ed.D. in leadership PROGRAM BASICS How to apply:   Graduate application Semester of entry: Summer Course Modality: Online or face-to-face/hybrid Applications open: Sep. 15 Application deadline:   Feb. 1 Faculty listing:   Educational Leadership Faculty areas of interest: Research areas ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS General admission requirements of the VCU Graduate School Master’s degree Three letters of recommendation addressing the student’s potential for graduate study in education Statement of intent Transcripts of all previous college work A personal interview (may be requested) Professional vitae/resume FOR MORE IN-DEPTH INFO Educational leadership degree/certificate programs Educational leadership program materials

Learning Community & Cohorts

In the Ed.D Program, each entering group of students is called a Learning Community (LC), differentiated by graduation year (e.g., LC 28 is the group starting in the summer of 2025 and graduating in May of 2028). Within each LC we have multiple cohorts in the following areas:

• General Leadership Online 
• Meets for 1.5 hours Wednesdays between 5 and 8 pm ET
• Higher Education Leadership Online 
• K12 Leadership Online 
• International Leadership Online 
• Meets for 1.5 hours Wednesdays between 9am and 12pm ET(UT -4)
• Combined Face-to-face 
• Meets Thursday evenings 5:30-8pm and five Saturdays a semester

In the supplemental questions area in the online application, students will rank order their preferences of cohort (1 = most preferred cohort; 4 = least preferred). Cohorts are determined after the admissions deadline, and we reserve the right to change initial cohort assignments to balance the needs of the students and the institution*. We take into account student preference, but a given cohort is not guaranteed. Each cohort completes the same Ed.D. courses with shifts in focus depending on the composition of students in a particular cohort. We are committed to reflective and responsive engagement with our learners.

*Be advised that a minimum number of students is required to administer a cohort.

Curriculum Requirements

The Ed.D. in leadership requires a minimum of 48 total graduate credit hours. Since this program is built on a cohort model, no external transfer credits are accepted. 

* Each course is 3 credit hours with the exception of EDLP 798 and 799, which can be taken for 3 or 6 credit hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

For each credit hour, the student should allocate three or more hours of work outside of the classroom (f2f or online) to have adequate time to read, write, and work collaboratively with peers and faculty. Thus, 6 credits requires approximately 18 hours per week of dedicated time outside of class per semester. This may vary by instructor, course, and semester. This is a reading and writing intensive program, with a focus on collaborative learning. 

Online cohorts meet synchronously online for 1-1.5 hours on Wednesdays between 5 and 8 pm E.T. Additional time outside of class is dedicated to asynchronous work (e.g., discussion boards), reading, writing, and teaming (i.e., meeting with course project teams).

Face-to-face cohorts meet on the Monroe Park Campus five full-day Saturdays a semester and weekly on Thursday evenings starting between 4 and 6 pm and lasting 2-2.5 hours. Plan for all F2F sessions to be on campus, though some courses use a more hybrid format by including both F2F classes and online synchronous meetings/ work. Additional time outside of class is dedicated to some asynchronous work (e.g., discussion boards), reading, writing, and teaming (i.e., meeting with course project teams).

A sample of Ed.D. Capstone projects available in the VCU Scholars Compass is found under Resources below.

Use this link to calculate tuition expenses . Select "Doctoral - Off Campus" for the online program and select "Doctoral - Monroe Park Campus" the face-to-face program. Select "Part-Time" and the appropriate residency information. Ed.D. students take two classes per semester for nine semesters.

We encourage students to work with their employer to gain tuition support and, if financial support is not possible, to negotiate for allocated school work time. Each year we have students gain promotions, awards, and secure new jobs due to the application of EdD coursework and skills. In other words, work with your employer to see the EdD as professional development and give you time and or/money to support your development. They will benefit from your degree.

Please be advised that since the EdD in Leadership is a part-time program, we are unable to offer scholarships. Most students gain employer support, use savings, and/or use student loans. There are also tuition payment plans available. We encourage you to work with Student Financial Services to explore your options.

Attendance is required. We offer accommodations only in unique and warranted circumstances.

We strive to place students in the best-fit cohort from the outset. Occasionally, we have a student quickly realize they are not in the best fit. In such cases, we may allow a student to shift cohorts with clear rationale and sufficient cohort numbers for the switch. After the first semester of the program, switches are rarely approved barring extreme circumstances.

We require students to have a minimum of three years of leadership experience . The applicant should describe / make evident how they meet this threshold in their statement of intent and resume/CV. For example, leadership in practice may or may not reflect an applicant’s job title. If you are close to the three year minimum, make sure your materials clearly reflect that you meet the three year minimum requirement.

• Application Checklist
• EdD in Leadership Student Handbook
• EdD Capstones in Scholar’s Compass (Link to scholars compass)
• Jonathan D. Becker, J.D., Ph.D.
• Kimberly M. Bridges, Ed.L.D.
• Beth E. Bukoski, Ph.D.
• Andrene J. Castro, Ph.D.
• Tomika L. Ferguson, Ph.D.
• Whitney S. Newcomb, Ph.D.
• Lacey E. Seaton, Ed.D.
• Charol Shakeshaft, Ph.D.
• Genevieve Siegel-Hawley, Ph.D.
• Jeffery L. Wilson, Ph.D.

Ready To Get Started?

• Jenna Lenhardt, Ph.D.
• Director, Strat Recrt & Outrch
• (804) 827-6847
• [email protected]
• Recruitment specialist
• (804) 827-2479
• Email: [email protected]

All prospective student inquiries please contact Dr. Lenhardt .

• (804) 828-1940
• [email protected]

Prospective and current students, please contact Dr. Bukoski with program questions.

VCU Education @VCUSOE - May 14

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The Doctor of Educational Ministry

The doctor of educational ministry empowers and equips christian leaders to strengthen and deepen their ministry. it is oriented toward professionals who hold a master’s degree in a discipline related to doctor of educational ministry studies rather than a master of divinity., vts doctoral programs begin with a question: what vision does god give us for transforming lives, communities, and cultures.

Because every baptized Christian carries out a distinct expression of that vision, the VTS doctoral programs offer varying program tracks oriented to varying ministries. Each track puts theological and biblical resources into conversation with developmental, organizational, and social scientific learning. Doctoral students focus on their specialized track while sharing knowledge across all tracks.

Like the Doctor of Ministry, there are three tracks* from which to choose:

*NEW Christian Formation track to be added in 2024.

Ministry Development

Christian Spirituality

Educational Leadership

The dedmin requires four years of pre-thesis coursework across four summer residencies. courses follow a hybrid learning model, combining online education with in-class time during summer residencies. the capstone of all doctoral programs is the thesis, a substantive work of action-reflection scholarship based upon rigorous examination of a ministry context and robust engagement with academic disciplines., residency dates:, june 19 – july 7, 2023, june 17 – july 5, 2024, residency preparation and rhythm.

The Summer Residency begins with a preparation period April-June. Students may enroll in up to 3 intensive courses during the Summer Residency. For each intensive course, students participate in 3 weeks of preparatory work online (3 intensive courses = 9 weeks of preparation work April-June). This time is mostly asynchronous (on your own time) and consists of reading, online discussion, and short assignments.

On-Campus Residency

Doctoral students come to campus each summer for course intensives.  A typical day consists of coursework, meals, and connection with colleagues and faculty.

Typical day (Monday-Friday):

• 7-8am: Breakfast and Morning Prayer
• 8-noon: Intensive course
• 12-1pm: Lunch and Noon prayer/Eucharist
• 1-2pm: Break
• 2-5pm: Case Studies, Thesis Proposals, worktime/freetime
• 5-6pm: Dinner
• Most after dinner activities are social in nature and optional

Between Residences

Between residencies, 1st and 2nd year students participate in reading courses (“Visions of Transformation I-IV”), a Contextual Study, and additional Case Studies. Doctor of Educational Ministry students also participate in two sessions of “Biblical and Theological Studies”. These courses are fully online and mostly asynchronous.

Doctoral Library Services

Students enrolled in a degree program at VTS have access to all of the resources of the Bishop Payne Library, whether on campus or at a distance.

Doctoral Program Rates/Fees

Doctoral Programs Brochure

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