phd in higher education administration

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

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

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

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

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

Transfer courses accepted Up to 8 with faculty approval

Culminating experience Dissertation 

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

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

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

Our Faculty

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

Affiliated Faculty

Ross Aikins Adjunct Associate Professor Ph.D., UCLA

Peter Eckel Senior Fellow Ph.D., University of Maryland

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

Laura W. Perna Vice Provost for Faculty Ph.D., University of Michigan

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

Sharon M. Ravitch Professor of Practice Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

Alan R. Ruby Senior Fellow Associateship, London Institute of Education

Valarie E. Swain-Cade McCoullum Provost’s Distinguished Senior Fellow Ed.D., Temple University

Ann E. Tiao Advisor to the Dean for Special Projects Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

Julie E. Wollman Professor of Practice Ph.D., New York University

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

Demetri Morgan

Our graduates, alumni careers.

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

Admissions & Financial Aid

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

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

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

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

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

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

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

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Where Higher Ed Careers Reach New Heights

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

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

Request Information    

How to Apply    

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

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

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

The GW Advantage

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

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

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

 Program at a Glance

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

Department:

Educational Leadership

Course Delivery:

Main Campus

Program Entry:

Avg. cohort size:.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education Administration >

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

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

Summer 2024

May 31, 2024-June 1, 2024

June 21-22, 2024

July 19-20, 2024

August 9-10, 2024

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

Spring 2025

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

Summer 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Apply Now

• Guide to Applying
• Admission Requirements
• Application Deadlines

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

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

• Prerequisite: Master's Degree
• Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
• Statement of Purpose
• Writing Sample : Candidates are required to submit a writing sample that best showcases their skills in academic writing and their potential for success in doctoral studies. The work submitted must be solely authored by the candidate. This is not an exhaustive list; however, suitable examples include technical writing reports, academic research papers, class papers, and excerpts from previously published works. The writing sample should demonstrate the candidate's ability to engage with complex ideas and communicate them effectively. There are no specific requirements regarding the length, topic, or focus area of the writing sample.
• 2 Letters of Recommendation (preferably one from a faculty member and the other from a professional supervisor): The letters must have been written within the calendar year and have been tailored for the Higher Education Administration Program.

*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants .

View more details about requirements    

Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2025. We encourage you to apply as early as possible.

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

 Tuition & Financial Aid

• Tuition Overview

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

Learn more about scholarships, grants & financial aid      

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

The tuition rate* for the on-campus EdD in HEA program is $1,905 per credit hour .

This program requires 53 credits .

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

*Summer 2024, Fall 2024 and Spring 2025

View the current fee chart      

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

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

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

 Career Outlook

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

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

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

Meet a few of our recent alumni:

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

Students interested in pursuing this degree find positions within:

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

Higher Education Administration (EdD) Faculty

Professorial Lecturer

Assistant Professor, Higher Education Administration

Associate Professor, Higher Education Administration

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

 HEA In the News

Transforming Colleges and Universities for the Future

June 17, 2024

Alumna Dr. Anitza San Miguel Honored by Florida Congressman as Distinguished Leader

April 3, 2024

Alumna, Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Named to Arab International Women's Forum Board of Directors

March 11, 2024

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Higher Education Administration, Ph.D.

• Learning Outcomes
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Saint Louis University's Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration emphasizes the interplay of theory and practice in higher education.

Curriculum Overview

Through coursework and intensive study, SLU's 46-credit hour Ph.D. in higher education administration program prepares future leaders, administrators and teachers for the college and university sectors. Courses focus on analyzing issues related to college students and higher education administration, application of discipline-based literature to higher education practice, application of best practice and research competency. Courses are grounded in a social justice and inclusion framework. 

Social Justice Framework

Our programs are grounded in our social justice framework. Social justice has been a “significant lens” for Jesuits since 1965 and is also vital for higher education and student affairs professionals, educators and community stakeholders. While the definitions of social justice are numerous, David Hollenbach, S.J., wrote that “social justice concerns institutionalized patterns of mutual action and interdependence that are necessary to bring about the realization of distributive justice.” 

In an education setting, distributive justice is the claim that everyone should have access to the public good of education. Toward that end, we strive to find ways to address experiences of systemic injustice, displacing oppressive structures with those that provide for all.

As educators, we understand our particular obligation is to prepare leaders for higher education who will dismantle systems of oppression and help shape colleges and universities that create vital educational spaces for all, with an intentional focus on those who have been targets of bias and injustice. With these goals in mind, our program is informed by the Jesuit, Catholic perspective on social justice and is guided by the Universal Apostolic Preferences adopted by the Society of Jesus in 2019 for the decade ahead.

The Jesuits encourage specific approaches to bring about reconciliation and justice. Our program’s framework is specifically guided by two approaches: “Walking with the Excluded” and “Journeying with Youth” (The Society of Jesus, 2019).

The approach “Walking with the Excluded” guides our program’s framework. Our students are personally and professionally challenged to address both higher education and society’s systemic inequities through an understanding of reconciliation and justice.

The approach “Journeying with Youth” encourages the Jesuit community, including our work in the University and the School of Education, to be open to formation by those who are new to our community or those who are younger, including students, faculty and staff. 

As scholars and educators, we aim to co-create a learning environment where students are holistically prepared to:

• Identify and analyze processes that dehumanize any persons and assist all in collectively and proactively dismantling oppression.
• Reflect on the socialization that shapes each student and faculty member.
• Give voice to particular groups’ experiences.
• Contextualize the history and context that each person brings to our work by incorporating sociopolitical perspectives into dialogue.
• Reflect upon and ask critical questions regarding the systems, structures and impact of higher education.

SLU's Ph.D. in higher education administration program is intended for students interested in higher education research and/or administration.

Admission Requirements

• Master's degree from a  regionally accredited  institution
• Transcript(s)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Professional goal statement

Requirements for International Students

All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply to international students along with the following:

• Demonstrate English Language Proficiency
• A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the time at Saint Louis University
• A letter from the sponsor's bank verifying that the funds are available and will be so for the duration of study at the University
• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.

Please note that application deadlines for this program differ for international students.

Review Process

A committee reviews each application holistically.

Application Deadlines

Domestic students should apply for the fall semester by June 15, for the spring semester by Nov. 1, and for the summer semester by April 1. International students should apply by May 1 for the fall semester, Oct.1 for the spring semester, and Feb. 1 for the summer semester.   

Additional charges may apply. Other resources are listed below:

Net Price Calculator

Information on Tuition and Fees

Miscellaneous Fees

Information on Summer Tuition

Scholarships and Financial Aid

For priority consideration for graduate assistantship, apply by Feb. 1.

For more information, visit the Office of Student Financial Services .

• Graduates will be prepared to address systemic injustices in higher education and society.
• Graduates will demonstrate critical reflection as they use discipline-based literature to inform ethical decisions in higher education leadership.
• Graduates will contribute to new knowledge through the creation of original research related to higher education administration practices.

Introductory Research Courses

Students must complete master’s level graduate research coursework as prerequisites for advanced research courses. Students are required to successfully complete the following three research courses. Up to six credits may be waived based on students' prior coursework.  

Advanced Research Courses

Students must successfully complete nine credits of advanced research courses (six of these credits must include  EDR 6400 and EDR 6100). Additionally, students must choose a three-credit advanced research course elective from either the qualitative or quantitative focus (see lists below).

Non-Course Requirements

• Students must pass a comprehensive written examination.
• Students must pass an oral examination/proposal defense.
• Students must pass a public presentation and defense of their dissertation.

Continuation Standards

Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 in all graduate/professional courses.

Roadmaps are recommended semester-by-semester plans of study for programs and assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.  

Courses and milestones designated as critical (marked with !) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation. Transfer credit may change the roadmap.

This roadmap should not be used in the place of regular academic advising appointments. All students are encouraged to meet with their advisor/mentor each semester. Requirements, course availability and sequencing are subject to change.

Apply for Admission

For additional admission questions, please contact: Saint Louis University School of Education 314-977-3292 [email protected]

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Higher Education Administration (HIED) PhD Program

This nationally recognized Ph.D. program emphasizes informed, ethical decision making in the administration of higher education. It is intended to launch its graduates into new areas and/or higher levels of leadership in colleges and universities.

Students take core coursework in higher education foundations, administration, governance and organization, law, and postsecondary students in the United States. 

The sequence of five research courses culminates in a dissertation of original contribution to the knowledge of higher education. Based on a cohort model, students’ professional and life experiences actively contribute to and enhance the learning experience in the classroom. The program is designed to be completed in three years for those pursuing full-time study. Required core and research courses are scheduled in the evening, allowing for greater flexibility for those maintaining full-time employment while in the program.

Most full-time students are employed in a variety of graduate assistantships that both support and supplement the program, and that typically provide a full tuition scholarship. The Global Understanding Requirement, a unique feature of the program, broadens and diversifies students’ conceptions of higher education and how it is influenced by culture and custom internationally.

The program is committed to educational leadership grounded in the following values: 

• A zeal for involvement and advocacy in the higher education profession;
• A holistic perspective of higher education that reflects an understanding of the interests and concerns of the internal campus environment (its faculty, staff, students, and administrators), external constituents (consumers, governmental agents, the public), and the global community;
• Expertise in a discipline-based academic specialty, in addition to a command of a core of professional studies in higher education; appreciation for both quantitative and qualitative tools of inquiry, emphasizing an understanding of their application to an array of problems, challenges, issues, and practices in higher education.

Students are expected to integrate and synthesize content across domains.  Learning outcomes are achieved through engagement in course work, independent research, employment, co-curricular and professional experiences, and interaction with faculty, peers, and university leaders.

Administration and Leadership in Higher Education

• Understand the history, philosophy, sociology, and law pertaining to governance, administration, and leadership in higher education institutions and systems
• Articulate how higher education is differentiated by mission, sector, curriculum, size, and stakeholders
• Evaluate and apply organizational theories and models to create and lead effective organizations 
• Develop effective practices and policies to create socially-just higher education and institutions and systems

Postsecondary Students’ Learning and Development

• Understand the demographic profile and trends of college students in the U.S.
• Analyze and critique models and theories of student learning and development and understand the cultural factors that influence their creation and use 
• Articulate the effect of individual and group differences and similarities on students' learning and development
• Create environments, policies, programs, and services that promote deep learning and foster the success of all students
• Collaborate within and beyond the institution to foster student learning, growth, and development

Diversity, Equity, and Social Justice

• Articulate the experiences of historically underrepresented and marginalized groups in higher education in the United States
• Understand issues of diversity, equity, and social justice in higher education
• Evaluate and create socially just policies and practices in higher education
• Understand a non-U.S. higher education system in the context of its culture
• Understand how U.S. higher education is similar to and different from other higher education systems
• Understand the role of globalization in higher education

Inquiry: Assessment, Evaluation, and Research

• Articulate paradigmatic assumptions that underlie different approaches to research, evaluation, and assessment
• Understand and interpret results from programmatic and institutional data
• Develop expertise in at least one research methodology
• Apply best practices of assessment and evaluation in postsecondary education
• Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to address research questions
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of research and assessment studies
• Create and implement at least one assessment project and one research study

HESA Community: Prospective Student N omination

Watch the Higher Education Administration Webinar to learn more!

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the graduate degree, students in Higher Education Administration are expected to be able to:

• Administration and Leadership in Higher Education:  Evaluate theories and models of organizations and leadership to achieve institutional mission and goals. 
• Postsecondary Students’ Learning and Development:  Assess and critique models and theories of student learning and development, informed by cultural factors that influence their creation and use.  
• Diversity, Equity, and Social Justice:  Evaluate campus policy and practice to promote diversity, equity, and social justice. 
• Inquiry: Assessment, Evaluation, and Research:  Design and execute a research study to address an important concern in higher education. 

Accreditation and/or Program/Cluster Review

Bowling Green State University [BGSU] is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission .  BGSU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 01/01/1916. The most recent reaffirmation of accreditation was received in 2012 - 2013. Questions should be directed to the Office of Institutional Effectiveness .

Professional Licensure (If applicable)

Bowling Green State University programs leading to licensure, certification and/or endorsement, whether delivered online, face-to-face or in a blended format, satisfy the academic requirements for those credentials set forth by the State of Ohio.

Requirements for licensure, certification and/or endorsement eligibility vary greatly from one profession to another and from state to state. The Higher Education Administration program does not lead to professional licensure.

Gainful Employment (If applicable)

Under the Higher Education Act Title IV disclosure requirements, an institution must provide current and prospective students with information about each of its programs that prepares students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.

The Higher Education Administration program is not a recognized occupation that requires a Gainful Employment disclosure.

Updated: 01/05/2024 10:25AM

Course Catalog | Liberty University

Doctor of philosophy in higher education administration (ph.d.), program learning outcomes.

A graduate of the Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration (Ph.D.) program:

• Knows research competencies synthesized with Christian values, moral dimensions, and ethical implications .
• Implements leadership, teaching and learning competencies as a gift from God because teaching /learning is a calling from God
• Believes foundation competencies consistent with our mission to prepare competent professionals with a biblical worldview for Christian, public, and private schools
• 1a. Evaluate elements of the historical and philosophical influences pertaining to governance, administration, and leadership in institutions of higher education.
• 2a. Synthesize organizational theories and models to create and lead effective higher education organizations.
• 2b. Integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills necessary for advanced career positions in higher education.
• 2c. Evaluate, interpret and synthesize research in higher education.
• 2d. Construct original research that contributes meaningfully to the existing body of knowledge.
• 3a. Defend a biblical worldview throughout analysis of literature, readings and research in higher education.

Program Specific Admission Requirements

In addition to the general admission requirements, specific admission procedures for the Ph.D. are listed below. Submit the following items to the Office of Graduate Admissions prior to registering for any graduate courses. Where noted, forms are available online at: http://www.liberty.edu/apply .

• Academic Records.  Applicants must submit an official transcript indicating successful completion of a master’s degree program from an institution accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Transcripts should be sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions from all schools previously attended.
• Ph.D. applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or above on graduate degree required for entrance to the program.

Transfer of Credit

All graduate transfer credits are subject to the approval of the School of Education (SOE) Graduate Committee. Such courses must carry a grade of at least a B- and be comparable to Liberty University graduate courses. Transfer credit will only be considered from institutions or schools accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. With approval, up to 30 hours may be transferred into the Ph.D. program. It is the responsibility of each applicant to supply official transcripts along with a written request to have credit applied to the degree program. Transfer credits must have been completed within the previous seven (7) years to be eligible for transfer to the Ph.D.

Students who have earned an Education Specialist in Higher Education Administration degree through Liberty are permitted to apply up to 27 hours (as applicable) from that degree toward the PhD in Higher Education Administration.

Dissertation

Candidates must adhere to the time frames noted on their specific DCP for proposal and dissertation completion. Exceeding time limits will result in removal from the Ph.D. program.

Before beginning the dissertation research, the doctoral dissertation committee must approve the research proposal. The dissertation is expected to exhibit scholarship, reflect mastery of technique, and make a distinctive contribution to the field of knowledge in which the candidate has specialized. A faculty committee of two (2) members, comprising a chair and a committee member is responsible for the general supervision of the doctoral dissertation. A formal defense of the dissertation is required for final approval.

Once candidates enter the dissertation phase of their degree as noted on their specific DCP, they must maintain continuous enrollment (Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters) until they complete all degree requirements. If they do not, they will break enrollment, and they will be required to apply for readmission if/when they wish to resume the pursuit of their degree. They will have to complete their degree under the Degree Completion Plan (DCP) in effect at the time of their readmission.

Time Limits for Degree Completion

The time limit for completing the degree from the date of admission to the program is seven years for the Ph.D. Only in unusual circumstances may the candidate be granted an extension. Granting of an extension of time will usually result in additional requirements.

Any candidate who does not complete coursework within the permissible time limit, for any reason including discontinued enrollment, must reapply for admission. A candidate may reapply only once, and will be subject to the current standards and curriculum. The SOE Graduate Committee will determine if any previous courses are sufficiently time sensitive and must be repeated. Beginning with the date of readmission, the candidate’s time limit for degree completion is determined by the number of hours remaining.

Delivery Format: Online Only

• Higher Education Administration (Ph.D.) - Assessment & Evaluation
• Higher Education Administration (Ph.D.) - Educational Leadership
• Higher Education Administration (Ph.D.) - Student Affairs
• Curriculum Specialist
• Educational Consultant
• Training and Development Specialist
• University Administrator
• University Professor
• Assessment Director

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Ph.D. in Higher Education

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

The PhD in Higher Education is for post-Master’s degree students who are interested in preparing for service and leadership in a broad range of roles in Colleges and Universities. Program graduates will understand the administrative, political, financial, legal, and socio-cultural aspects of higher education and be prepared to be change agents in 21st century institutions of post-secondary education, including community colleges, 4-year degree granting institutions, and comprehensive graduate and professional degree granting universities. In addition to core coursework, students will have the opportunity to specialize by taking a minimum of 6 credit hours of coursework in an area of professional interest. Additionally, focused internships working with professionals in their field of interest and an international research focused study abroad experience will provide students with mentorship and real-world experience.

February 15th is the deadline for consideration for Fall admission. Incomplete applications are not reviewed.

What makes our program right for you?

Purdue specific outcomes and program highlights: 

• Distinguish yourself in the education industry with a superior credential from an institution with worldwide recognition and impact.
• Advance and network with an experienced and motivated peer group for mutual support, team exercises, and enhanced learning. 
• Publish with internationally recognized faculty.

Purdue quality. Flexible schedule.

Online and hybrid students enjoy the same rigorous academic programs as on-campus students, but with a much more flexible class schedule. Assignments, discussions, and other coursework are posted each week in the virtual classroom.  Students are required to participate in real-time classes from 6-9 p.m. EST two nights per week.  The hybrid model of this program requires students to travel to campus at least once a semester.

The cohort model provides opportunities for student to get to know their peers.  Students can build friendships and a support system during the program that helps to build a professional network.  Students are able to learn from others who are in the same field and may have different and similar experiences. The Cohort Doctoral Program strives to develop leaders in the education industry.

Students will publish with internationally acclaimed faculty.  During the program, students will co-author with Higher Education faculty a minimum of three articles, published in peer reviewed journals. Higher Education students gain highly sought-after skills and experiences in research, writing and publishing – the currency of Higher Education Institutions.

MAKE YOUR NEXT GIANT LEAP

For more information, view the Admissions Application Checklist

Request Information – Ph.D. Higher Education

• Your Name * First Last
• Email Address *
• Phone Number *

This program does not lead to licensure in the state of Indiana or elsewhere. Contact the College of Education Office of Teacher Education and Licensure (OTEL) at [email protected] before continuing with program application if you have questions regarding licensure or contact your state Department of Education about how this program may translate to licensure in your state of residence.

Career Outlook

The higher education field is growing rapidly, according to the  Bureau of Labor Statistics .  Universities and institutions are struggling to find candidates who have the foundation to understand higher education structure, governance, and operation.  The Ph. D. in Educational Studies, Higher Education can give you the needed foundation to be successful.

Job opportunities include (but are not limited to):

• Leadership Program Administration
• Chief Academic Officer
• Admissions Dean or Administrator
• Financial Aid Director
• Student Services Dean
• Provost or Vice President
• Student Engagement Outreach Specialist
• Athletic Director
• Education Consultant
• Development Officer

Students enroll in 7 credit hours per semester: 2- 3 credit courses and 1 credit of research writing. Students should anticipate spending an average of 15 hours weekly on reading and homework.   Students are required to participate in real-time classes from 6-9 p.m. EST two nights per week.  The hybrid model of this program requires students to travel to campus at least once a semester.

Students attend a required 10-day study abroad experience during the summer after the second year of coursework. Please note that study abroad costs are in addition to tuition and will range between $4,000 – $6,000 plus airfare. (This fee includes one credit hour of tuition). 

Program and Required Courses (42 credit hours)

*all classes are 3-credit hours unless otherwise noted

• Organization & Administration of Higher Education
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Economics and Finance of Higher Education
• Higher Education Leadership
• Quantitative Data Analysis Methods in Education I
• Quantitative Data Analysis Methods in Education II
• Politics & Policy in Higher Education
• Higher Education Law
• History of the American College & University
• International & Intercultural Education
• Cultural Engagement in Communities and Workplaces
• Study Abroad for Educational Leaders (1 hour)
• Assessment and Evaluation in Higher Education
• Research Procedures in Education
• Higher Education Internship (2 hours)

Elective Courses (6 credit hours)

For the remaining 6 credits, you and your advisor will work to develop a plan of study that matches your individualized interests and career goals. One suggestion would be Research Procedures in Education.

Dissertation Research (15 credit hours)

The Ph.D. in Educational Studies with a concentration in Higher Education program is affordable and competitive in cost. 

*Tuition and fees are charges on a per credit hour basis and are subject to annual increase.  Annual increases may change the total program costs. *Textbooks and course materials are not included. *A 10-day study abroad program is required for all students and is completed during the summer of the second year of doctoral students.  The fee for study abroad includes one credit hour of tuition.   *Faculty and staff fee remissions are not valid with this program. *International Fee

**The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.

December 1st is the deadline for applications for those interested in being considered for any available College and University Funding for Fall. Funding opportunities for this program vary year-to-year.

Admissions requirements:

• A completed master’s degree is required prior to admission.
• Official transcripts
• Personal History Statement – This may include relevant details on community service, leadership roles, participation in diverse teams, and significant barriers that you overcame to attend graduate school.
• Academic Statement of Purpose – This is an opportunity for you to share information that will help reviewers understand your academic interests and objectives, assess your academic background, preparation, and training, and determine if you are a good match for the program to which you are applying.
• 3 Letters of recommendation
• English proficiency for international students
• Application fee

For more information, please see  Purdue’s full application instructions and Application Checklist .

Program Faculty

Our faculty are nationally recognized and have the ability to work personally with students to individualize their plan of study to meet personal career interests and goals. These faculty will oversee the intensive coursework required for publications and research.

Christine Rienstra Kiracofe

Lisa Lambert Snodgrass

ALICE JOHNSON

Lamonica williams

Terron Phillips

Ahmad Javadi

Testimonials

This program allows me to keep working full-time without having class, research projects, or internship experiences conflict with my work schedule. I wanted a cohort model, and was really intrigued by the three-paper dissertation format with a broader research arc. Additionally, when I interviewed colleagues, friends, and mentors, they all said they wished they had more experience with law, finance, and policy, which are three strong aspects of this program. MICHELLE L. ASHCRAFT Director of Purdue Promise Student Success Programs

The faculty has successfully created a rigorous program that also inspires collaboration and caring. Every aspect, from the cohort model to the dissertation process, is designed to help students be successful and also to strive a little further toward their educational goals. Cohorts are selected with diversity in mind to provide each class with a broad lens of understanding. Coursework allows for personal growth and development of our research arcs that fit within the scope of the class while allowing me to work full-time. SHAUNA MCCLURE Data Management Specialist Office of Global Partnerships and Programs Purdue University

This program is designed to accommodate full-time workers. I did not have to resign from my position to pursue my doctorate. After a couple months into the program, I can attest to the rigor of the program and most importantly the real-world experiences that we gain through different case studies. There are so many opportunities to do research or even publish a research article in the very first semester into the program. KANGNI “SAM” MOMBOU PhD Student in Higher Education

The program has been a great experience! The coursework has been the perfect blend of theory and real-world application. Faculty have offered tremendous support throughout my journey. I am a much more efficient and effective administrator and leader because of things I have learned and experienced in this program. I would not trade the experience and knowledge I have gain for anything else like it! MARK SCHNEIDER Assistant Vice President of K-14 Academic Initiatives & Support Ivy Tech Community College

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the program? The program is designed to take 4 years (Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters).
• Is the GRE required for admission?  Are GRE waivers available? Yes, the GRE is required for all students.  There are no GRE waivers for this program.  However, you can submit GRE scores that are up to 5 years old.
• Is a Masters degree required for admission? Yes.  All applicants must have a masters degree from an accredited College or University. 
• Are there funding opportunities available? Students can apply (by December of the year prior to the start of the cohort) for competitive fellowships through the College of Education and the University. Please note that the fellowship application deadline is much earlier than the regular application deadline.  Fellowship students come and work either as teaching assistants or graduate assistants at Purdue. 
• Is it possible to work full time and complete the PhD? Yes.  However, students must be available to take classes (either in person or live via Zoom) from 6 – 9 p.m. EST two weeknights each week (days may vary). 
• How much is tuition? Tuition is $700/credit hour for in-state students and $750/credit hour for out-of-state students.  Please note that the required study abroad program expenses are in addition to tuition and will range from $4,000 – $6,000 plus airfare.
• How many courses do PhD students take each semester? Standard load is two three-credit courses each semester.  In addition to these two classes, depending on the semester, students may also register for 1 hour of internship, or dissertation research.  Students will not take more than 7 credit hours in a semester unless special arrangements are made in advance.
• What is the study abroad component of the program? The required study abroad program will take place during the summer after students’ second year of coursework. We will travel abroad for approximately 10 days and work with professors and administrators at a partnering Higher Education Institution (currently at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland).  Please note that study abroad costs are in addition to tuition and will range between $4,000 – $6,000 plus airfare.
• What does the dissertation for this PhD look like? The dissertation requires that students author (with program faculty) at least three peer-reviewed scholarly articles of appropriate length and subject matter during their doctoral studies.  The dissertation consists of an introductory chapter, reprints of these three (or more) articles, and an analysis/conclusion chapter.
• What does the internship involve? Internships are individualized and are designed to give students experience in areas of a college or university that they are interested in exploring.  The internship is not a “job shadowing” experience and students are not required to be physically present in West Lafayette to complete an internship at Purdue.  Instead, the internship is project based, allowing students to gain important experience with “real world” higher education issues and challenges.
• What does it mean to be a “hybrid” doctoral program? Students are required to come to West Lafayette for an intensive class once per semester.  Students are encouraged to attend class in-person each week as they are able.  However, for students who live some distance from Purdue, they can access the weekly courses in real time via Zoom each week.  The only requirement is that students must be available to be “at” classes from 6 – 9 p.m. EST two nights each week.
• When is the application deadline? NEW DEADLINE – February 15 th  (note that students interested in fellowships must apply by December of the previous year)
• Download a PDF of this FAQ factsheet

Make your next giant leap

Admissions:   [email protected] Course Content Information: Contact Dr. Lisa Lambert Snodgrass and Dr. Terron Phillips Course Registration, payment, drops/withdraws, and removing holds: Purdue Online [email protected] Career accounts: ITaP (765) 494-4000

Connect with Pitt Education

PhD in Higher Education

Develop an advanced understanding of the dynamic forces shaping higher education.

The PhD in Higher Education is committed to advancing scholarship, research, and practice in the field of higher education. The program is focused on critical scholarship and centers equity, inclusion, and justice.

Students have research interests ranging from student access to student outcomes, student development and affairs, faculty, organizations, and administration, community colleges and community college leadership, and policy.

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Program Facts

Degree Type

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Time Commitment

Full-time or Part-Time

3 - 5 years

Enrollment Term

Application Deadline

Admission Requirements

No GRE Exam is required

Program Overview

The PhD in Higher Education is committed to advancing scholarship, research, and practice in the field of higher education. The program is focused on critical scholarship and centers equity, inclusion, and justice. Our students research interests include student access, student outcomes, student development and affairs, faculty, organizations, and administration, community colleges and community college leadership, and policy.

The program has a core set of courses designed for students to gain an understanding of historical, political, philosophical, and social elements that shape and continue to reshape higher education. The curriculum is designed to ground students in the study of higher education as a discipline and critical scholarship within the field. Students develop an area of research specialization. The curriculum in higher education is complemented by courses within other programs in the Educational Foundations, Organizations, and Policy Department and across the School of Education. In addition, through a strong focus within the program on rigorous methodological training, students gain competency in both quantitative and qualitative research methods and take advanced courses in the methodological approaches they plan to utilize in their research.

"The School of Education has been an asset to my doctoral journey and truly embodies the famous words of Nelson Mandela: 'Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.'" Jenay Willis - Pitt alumni

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Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites for this degree, but interested students should verify that they fulfill the admissions requirements.

The PhD in Higher Education program is 90 credits.

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Required Courses (21 credits)

• EFOP 2307 – POLITICS AND HISTORY OF HIGHER EDUCATION
• EFOP 2131 – HIGHER EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION
• EFOP 2055 – STUDENT DEVELOPMENT THEORY
• EFOP 3141 – POLICY STUDIES IN HIGHER EDUCATION
• EFOP 3150 – FOUNDATIONS FOR THE STUDY OF HIGHER EDUCATION
• EFOP 3151 – THEORETICAL FRAMEWORKS FOR THE STUDY OF HIGHER EDUCATION
• EFOP 3153 – RESEARCH PERSPECTIVES ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Electives (24 Credits)

Students enroll for 24 credits of electives, including 9 credits of higher education courses taught in the program. Program courses include but are not limited to the following:

• EFOP 3015 – ETHICAL ISSUES IN HIGHER EDUCATION
• EFOP 3131 – STUDENT, CAMPUS, AND SOCIETY
• EFOP 3136 – COMPARATIVE HIGHER EDUCATION
• EFOP 3134 – CONTEMPORARY LATINX ISSUES IN US HIGHER EDUCATION

Research Methodology (18 credits)

Students enroll for 18 credits of research methodology, including:

Three required courses (9 credits):

• EDUC 3100 – INTRODUCTION TO QUAN METHODS: DESCRIPTIVE AND INFERENTIAL STATISTICS (required)
• EDUC 3103 – QUANTITATIVE METHODS 2 (required)
• EDUC 3104 – INTRODUCTION TO QUALITATIVE METHODS (required)

Research Methodology electives (9 credits) include the following:

• EDUC 3107 – WAYS OF KNOWING
• EDUC 3505 – RESEARCH-PRACTICE PARTNERSHIPS: APPROACHES TO COLLABORATIVE DESIGN, INQUIRY & CHANGE
• EDUC 3506 – MIXED METHODS RESEARCH
• EFOP 3012 – QUALITATIVE DATA MANAGEMENT, ANALYSIS, AND PRESENTATION
• EFOP 3201 – INTRODUCTION TO EDUCATIONAL EVALUATION
• EFOP 3209 – HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONAL ASSESSMENT & ACCREDITATION
• EFOP 3408 – HIERARCHICAL LINEAR MODELING
• EFOP 3417 – STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING
• EFOP 3471 – CONSTRUCTING QUESTIONNAIRES AND CONDUCTING SURVEYS
• EFOP 3472 – CAUSAL INFERENCE IN EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH
• EFOP 3501- Critical Policy Analysis
• EDUC 3000 – ADVANCED APPLIED STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
• EDUC 3106 – ADVANCED APPLIED QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS
• TLL 3003 – RESEARCH INTERVIEWING

Supervised Research (6 credits)

Students enroll in 6 credits:

• EFOP 3097 – SUPERVISED RESEARCH

Independent Research (18 credits)

Students enroll in 18 credits:

• EFOP 3099 – GUIDANCE IN THE DOCTORAL DEGREE

Professional Seminars (3 Credits)

• EDUC 3102 – FIRST YEAR SEMINAR 1
• EDUC 3105 – FIRST YEAR SEMINAR 2

Career Pathways

• Faculty at institutions of higher education
• Researchers at educational think tanks and major policy institutes
• Leaders of administrative units with teaching and research responsibilities.

Program Faculty

Program Coordinator

Linda DeAngelo

Heather McCambly

Darris Means

Brett Ranon Nachman

Maximilian T. Schuster

Eboni M. Zamani-Gallaher

Program News

$3 Million Grant Seeks to Build Stronger Career Pathways for Engineering Faculty of Color

$3 Million Grant Seeks to Build Stronger Career Pathways for Engineering Faculty of Color - Read more

Faculty Member Darris Means Named Emerging Scholar in Higher Education

Faculty Member Darris Means Named Emerging Scholar in Higher Education - Read more

New $1.3 Million Grant to Develop Industry-Focused Job Pathways for Community Colleges

New $1.3 Million Grant to Develop Industry-Focused Job Pathways for Community Colleges - Read more

Faculty Member Heather McCambly Receives NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellowship

Faculty Member Heather McCambly Receives NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellowship - Read more

New Book Addresses Student Socialization in Higher Education

New Book Addresses Student Socialization in Higher Education - Read more

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Higher Education PhD

Graduate school of education, program description.

The PhD program in Higher Education will prepare you for multiple roles, including: leadership positions in post-secondary education administration, higher education scholars, and positions in policy or advocacy organizations. Our program focuses on issues of concern to scholars and leaders in all types of higher education institutions. Given the variety of positions that you can pursue post-graduation, your advisor will work with you to craft a course of study, and pursue experiences that will help you meet your individual goals.

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

Instruction Method

• In Person   (100 percent of courses offered in person)

Full/Part Time Options

Credits required, time-to-degree.

• 4 to 5+ Years

Application Fee

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

Higher and Postsecondary Education PhD

Doctor of philosophy in higher & postsecondary education.

The Higher and Postsecondary Education (HPSE) Program at Teachers College, Columbia University strives to create knowledge, knowledgeable scholar-practitioners, and practicing scholars concerned broadly with teaching, learning, and scholarly and professional development; organizational and institutional analysis, including abilities to probe and develop the structures, processes, policies, and technologies that comprise colleges, universities, and state and national systems of tertiary education; social and comparative perspectives, with attention to the social, cultural, economic, and historic context of knowledge production, policy, and institutional development. We expect that students will work within and across these domains and scholarly disciplines, developing programs of study that, though focused on particular themes and issues (e.g., policy, scholarly learning and careers, student development, professional development), will be informed broadly and deeply by a diverse array of ideas, perspectives, and questions.

The Ph.D. degree in Higher and Postsecondary Education is designed to prepare scholars and researchers in the area of Higher Education. To achieve the purposes of the program, the Ph.D. was designed to provide both subject-matter competence and research skills (study design, methodology). The domain of inquiry for the Ph.D. is the field of higher education. However, each student will also select a discipline-based cognate as an anchor for their developing understanding of the multi-disciplinary field of higher education.

Candidates for the degree will be equipped to recognize significant issues and their value assumptions, identify problems needing research, and design and undertake original scholarly research projects that are likely to have direct application to a particular higher education setting. Candidates will also receive supervised training in the teaching of higher education as a field of study. The program will draw on designated College strengths in diverse research strategies/methods, tailoring these to the study of higher education when appropriate.

The Ph.D. in Higher Education is designed for students pursuing careers as academic faculty, administrators, policy analysts, and educational researchers. Since the PhD is a scholarly degree, the core objective of this degree program is to prepare researchers of the highest quality. Our program engages in broad explorations of higher and postsecondary education, and of the contexts that shape the enterprise and its activities. Ph.D. students conclude their program by writing a dissertation that, though focused on a particular research problem within higher and postsecondary education, reflects the deep understanding of knowledge structures underpinning a particular area of inquiry.

Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2025, Summer 2025, and Fall 2025 terms.

Doctor of Philosophy

• Points/Credits: 75
• Entry Terms: Fall
• Enrollment Formats: Full-Time, Part-Time

Application Deadlines

Select programs remain open beyond our standard application deadlines , such as those with an extended deadline or those that are rolling (open until June or July). If your program is rolling or has an extended deadline indicated above, applications are reviewed as they are received and on a space-available basis. We recommend you complete your application as soon as possible as these programs can close earlier if full capacity has been met.

Application Requirements

Statement of Purpose

• For more information on our application process and guidelines for the statement of purpose, please visit the Admissions website .

Additional Degree Information

Our curriculum emphasizes the mastery of particular theoretical frameworks and research methods in the social sciences or humanities. Each doctoral student is required to create a cognate in a discipline or interdisciplinary area. Students who enroll full-time typically complete the program in four to five years, past their master’s.

The Ph.D. requires a minimum of 75 points of graduate coursework, completion of the certification exam (two parts), and the writing and successful defense of a dissertation.

Required core courses include (19 points):

ORL 5521 Introduction to research methods in education (3) or equivalent with advisor approval

• ORLH 4020 College and University Organization and Administration (3)
• ORLH 5011 College Teaching & Learning (3) OR ORLH 5527 The College Professoriate (3)
• ORLH 5044 Theories of Diversity in Higher Education (3) OR ORLH 5545 The Civic Mission of Higher Education (3)
• ORLH 5526 The Literature of Higher Education (3)
• ORLH 6511 Coordinating Seminar in Higher Education (3)
• ORLH 7500 Dissertation Seminar (1)

Methods Requirements (9-12 Points):

A minimum of three (3) additional research courses (9 points beyond ORL 5521) will be selected relative to the student's research preparation needs; selection of research coursework requires approval of the dissertation sponsor. At least one introductory qualitative and one introductory quantitative course are required; plus, one advanced methods course. Additional methodological coursework and a research apprenticeship are recommended and may be required by dissertation sponsor or committee toward development of appropriate research expertise. Consult with dissertation sponsor.

Disciplinary Cognate Requirement (12 points):

A minimum of four (4) courses within a discipline that is chosen by student in consultation with academic advisor.

The remaining courses are electives. Up to 30 points may be transferred from a relevant master’s program with advisor approval.

Changes or other adjustments to requirements and distributions, as shown for the Ph.D. in Higher and Postsecondary Education, require approval of the HPSE faculty advisor. The above plan assumes advisor approval for all courses of enrollment.

A limited number of internships may be available to Ph.D. students, pending advisor consultation and approval of the Program Director. For information, please contact the Program’s Internship Coordinator.

Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2023-2024)

Displaying catalog information for the Fall 2023, Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 terms.

View Full Catalog Listing

The Ph.D. degree requires a minimum of 75 points of graduate coursework, completion of the certification exam (two parts), and the writing and successful defense of a dissertation.

ORLH 4020 College and university organization and administration (3)

ORLH 5011 College teaching & learning (3) OR ORLH 5527 Advanced professional seminar: The college professoriate (3)

ORLH 5044 Theories of diversity in higher education (3) OR ORLH 5545 Advanced professional seminar: The civic mission of higher education (3)

ORLH 5526 Advanced professional seminar: The literature of higher education (3)

ORLH 6511 Coordinating seminar in higher education (3)

ORLH 7500 Dissertation seminar (1)

A minimum of three (3) additional research courses (9 points beyond ORL 5521) will be selected relative to the student's research preparation needs; selection of research coursework requires approval of the dissertation advisor. At least one introductory qualitative and one introductory quantitative course are required; plus, one advanced methods course. Additional methodological coursework and a research apprenticeship are recommended and may be required by dissertation advisor or committee toward development of appropriate research expertise. Consult with dissertation advisor.

A minimum of four (4) courses within a discipline that is chosen by the student in consultation with their academic advisor.

The remaining courses are electives. Up to 30 points may be transferred from a relevant master’s degree program with advisor approval.

• View Other Degrees

Program Director : Professor Noah D. Drezner

Teachers College, Columbia University 206 Zankel

Phone: 212-678-3750 Fax: 212-678-3743

Email: highered@tc.edu

Search NYU Steinhardt

Doctor of Philosophy Higher Education

Prepare to conduct research as a faculty member, researcher, government employee, or policy scholar. You’ll work with faculty with a range of interests and expertise to examine issues of access and equity, state and federal policy development, workplace learning, and institutional leadership, development, and assessment. Full-time PhD students are eligible for our competitive funding package.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

PhD in Higher Education

Admissions is alternate years only. The next application deadline is December 1, 2024 for a start date of September 2025.

Who Should Apply

Our curriculum includes an extensive and rigorous sequence of research courses that will prepare you for the dissertation, which focuses on a question that requires the combined use of literature, and a research problem that is empirically investigated. The curriculum offers significant flexibility to ensure that you can construct an individualized program to support your research interests.

To be admitted to PhD candidacy, you will prepare and defend a candidacy paper, which is an analytical synthesis of the research and related scholarly literature on a researchable problem of significant interest to higher and postsecondary education. Your PhD dissertation will be an empirical study that results in the creation of new knowledge.

Our doctoral students come from a broad range of backgrounds. Some students have extensive previous experience as higher education administrators and some have held teaching positions within universities. Others have had significant experience in higher education policy. The program takes advantage of the wide range of backgrounds of our students to create a vibrant educational experience, embracing important contemporary issues shaping culture and practice in higher education.  Before applying, we encourage you to speak with faculty via a campus visit. If you cannot make a campus visit, please arrange a telephone appointment with a faculty member who shares a mutual research interest with you. To arrange a visit or a phone appointment, please contact [email protected] .

Upcoming Info Session

Higher Education Doctoral Programs (PhD and EdD) Info Session via Zoom Thursday, October 10 from 6:30 to 7:30 PM

Funding for Full-Time PhD Students

NYU Steinhardt  offers a competitive funding package for PhD students who study full time.   Learn more about Steinhardt's funding opportunities .

Take the Next Step

Advance your personal and professional journey – apply to join our community of students.

• Graduate School of Education
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Educational Administration, PhD

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

Our Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in educational administration will prepare you with the theoretical and methodological skills for careers in university research, governmental and non-governmental policy analysis, educational and public agency leadership, and community-centered non-profit work. Our program is for researchers interested in connections between educational policy and leadership and increasing access, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts within public educational spaces. It also is for researchers who aim to find new ways to integrate theory into practice and utilize interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches to make a difference on critical problems affecting society today. The PhD program is different from the EdD program in that the PhD emphasizes training in empirical research, theory development, and the generation of new knowledge and is best suited for students who aspire to academic careers as university faculty or researchers.

On this page:

Why educational administration at ub.

The features of our program include:

• faculty expertise in critically-oriented educational policy and leadership theories and methodologies
• faculty expertise in global and localized educational issues, and interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary praxis
• coursework designed to meet individual student needs
• coursework designed to connect research with practice through frequent guest speakers  
• programming designed to stimulate critical conversations around the relationship between researcher identity, research processes, and structural inequities within society, schools, policy, and practice
• programming designed to provide core knowledge in educational policy and leadership, and to support students in a specialized area of study

Program Overview

Career Opportunities

• Administrative positions in local school administration and state and federal government
• Teaching, researching and policymaking positions in higher education across New York State and worldwide

Program Coursework

Educational administration (minimum 24 credits).

Your courses will provide a breadth of understanding across the field of educational administration (e.g., instructional, managerial and political areas) and a depth of understanding within a particular area that interests you (e.g., business administration, curriculum and instructional leadership, economics and finance, organizations, personnel, school reform, staff development, urban education).

Recommended (6 credits)

ELP 624 Research Paradigms and Problems in Educational Research ELP 626 Educational Policy Formation and Analysis

Cognates (minimum 18 credits)

You are expected to choose two cognates (with a minimum of 9 credits in each).

• A cognate in at least two areas of educational foundations such as sociology of education, philosophy of education, educational psychology, and history of education.
• A cognate in a discipline or field outside of educational administration (e.g., any of the educational foundations areas listed in (1), comparative education, counseling, English as a second language, economics, cognitive psychology, law, political science, management, sociology).

Research (minimum 15 credits)

At least one quantitative methods course and at least one qualitative methods course with at least one advanced course in either quantitative or qualitative methods. No more than one introductory course can be taken in any particular research method.

Dissertation (9 credits)

Program faculty.

Gwendolyn Baxley

Assistant Professor Educational Leadership And Policy

485 Baldy Hall North Campus Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: 716-645-1085

Email: [email protected]

Simone Fried

484 Baldy Hall North Campus Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: 716-645-1099

Email: [email protected]

Melinda Lemke

Associate Professor Educational Leadership And Policy

University at Buffalo, SUNY Graduate School of Education Buffalo, NY 14260-1000 Buffalo, NY 14260

Email: [email protected]

Corrie Stone-Johnson

Professor Educational Leadership And Policy

473 Baldy Hall North Campus Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: 716-645-2471

Email: [email protected]

Application Requirements

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

You must hold a master's degree.

Submit your completed online application, which includes:

• Application fee:  A $50 non-refundable application fee, submitted electronically through UB's ePayment system;
• Unofficial transcripts  from all colleges attended. (UB transcripts are automatically submitted for current UB students and alumni);
• Contact information for at least three individuals  who will each be asked to provide an electronic recommendation letter;
• Curriculum vitae
• Sample of academic writing:  A sample of your academic writing of at least 15 pages (double spaced). This sample should utilize current empirical research evidence and be in current APA format ;
• Statement of interest:  A statement of interest of no more than 1500 words (double spaced; current APA format ), that discusses your research goals, faculty with whom you would like to partner and why, and how you respond to educational issues pertaining to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). To help ensure those applying to the EDA PhD program fit within the program goals, the following DEI definitions were developed: D iversity implies that faculty and students will aim to understand the experiences of individuals from a wide range of identity backgrounds (e.g. age, gender identity, language, nationality, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status), with a particular focus on groups that have faced historic oppression and marginalization, and which can be visible, invisible, and shift relative to context, politics, and historical moment. E quity implies that students, and the faculty who guide them, are committed to identifying the actual needs of the individuals/group being researched, ensuring equal access to research opportunities and resources, and in particular, exercising heightened attention to the history of deficit-oriented and exploitative practices where unserved and underserved communities are concerned. I nclusion implies that students, and the faculty who guide them, are committed to the establishment of research protocols and practices that ensure individuals/groups are treated ethically, fairly, respectfully, and in manner that acknowledges researcher/participant power dynamics in a way that permits full participation of all individuals in research endeavors.

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

In-State Residency Tuition

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

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

International Applicant Additional Requirements

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

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

Chat with a Student Ambassador

Questions about the program.

Coordinator of Educational Administration

Associate Professor --------------------- Dept. of Educational Leadership and Policy 473 Baldy Hall

716-645-2471 [email protected]

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

Questions About the Admission Process?

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

University of South Florida

Higher Education & Student Affairs

College of Education

Main Navigation

Higher education administration.

Offered on USF's Tampa campus

The PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Higher Education Administration is a research degree that prepares individuals interested in teaching, research, and policy positions in both community colleges and universities.

Appropriate professional positions for graduates of this program would be:

• Faculty who intend to teach in universities in the field of higher education
• Faculty who wish to teach in community colleges
• Administrators who seek positions that entail expertise in research and policy
• Institutional researchers in colleges and universities
• Policy analysts in state and national higher education agencies and organizations   

To learn more about our program's curriculum, please visit the USF Catalog. 

USF Catalog

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

For more information about the PhD concentration in Higher Education Administration, please contact us. 

PhD in Higher Education – Educational Leadership Degree Shaping Organizations for Success

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Become an Authority in Academia with Liberty’s Online PhD in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership Degree Online

If you’re interested in pursuing a research-based career or opportunities in academia, Liberty University’s 100% online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership may be a great fit for you. Our higher education PhD online has been designed with your success in mind. Whether you’d like to become a department chair, the dean of a school, provost, or university president, our online doctorate in higher education administration can help you reach your career goals.

As of October 2020, 61.8% of high school graduates between the ages of 16 and 24 were enrolled at a college or university.* This statistic speaks to the importance of qualified higher education administrators. Millions of young Americans attend college in hopes of earning an education, boosting their earning potential, increasing their employability, and forging lifelong connections.

As a higher education administrator, you’ll play a crucial role in building and maintaining a university setting that students want to attend. The role of a university administrator isn’t just about negotiating with accrediting partners or providing feedback to department chairs — it’s about ensuring that the future of the world is in good hands.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at College Enrollment and Work Activity of Recent High School and College Graduates Summary (viewed online Dec. 2, 2022).

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

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

Why Choose Liberty’s PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree – Educational Leadership?

Maybe you’ve always wanted to work in an academic setting, or perhaps you already do. Either way, there are numerous job opportunities available in academia. Liberty’s educational leadership and higher education PhD online could be your ticket to a well-paying career in student services, academics, faculty research, or higher education administration.

We recognize that your personal responsibilities don’t stop when you enroll in a degree program, which is why our doctorate in higher education online is offered 100% online in mostly 8-week courses with no required intensives. That way, you won’t have to worry about traveling to campus for classes or spend time away from your job, family, or community.

What Will You Study in Our PhD in Higher Education – Educational Leadership Degree Online?

In our PhD in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership, you can learn about teaching the college student, college and university administration, historical perspectives of higher education, and the economic impact of higher education. You will also study the specifics of accreditation.

In the educational leadership specialization, you’ll study issues and trends in technology and learning as well as policy analysis. You’ll also be able to choose between two courses: organizational analysis and problem-solving for educators, or conflict resolution. Our educational leadership cognate is rounded out by an elective course, which allows you to study a topic you’re most passionate about.

Upon completion of your core courses, you’ll begin to venture into dissertation preparation. The research courses in our online doctor of higher education include advanced educational statistics, quantitative and qualitative methods of research, and a dissertation literature review. You will also study research concepts and methodology as part of your research courses.

And finally, the dissertation portion of your degree will consist of multiple courses. Through these courses, you will choose a topic, research your topic, and present your findings to our School of Education faculty.

Potential Career Opportunities

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

Featured Courses

• EDUC 758 – Teaching the College Student
• EDUC 759 – College and University Administration
• EDUC 782 – Historical Perspectives of Higher Education
• EDUC 784 – Assessment and Accreditation

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Education .
• View the Graduate Education Course Guides (login required) .
• View the Doctoral Advising Guide .
• Most of our PhD courses are offered in an 8-week format; however, the dissertation courses are full-semester in length.

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

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.

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

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Liberty’s Online PhD in Higher Education Administration Online

Admission requirements.

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

Preliminary Acceptance

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

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

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

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

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

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

Who May Qualify?

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

Military Tuition Discount

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the career potential look like for this field.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary education administrators earned an average salary of $97,500 in 2020.** Demand for this career is expected to grow by 8% between 2020 and 2030, and the BLS projects that about 14,500 new postsecondary education administration positions will become available each year during the same time frame. If you’re interested in becoming a college administrator, our doctor of higher education is an excellent choice.

**Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Postsecondary Education Administrators (viewed online Sept. 29, 2021). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

What accreditation does Liberty University have?

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

What title can I use once I have earned this degree?

Upon successful completion of this degree program, you will have earned the title of “Doctor” – a title that commands respect in academic and business communities alike.

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Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration

Jump to section, choosing an online phd in higher education administration program, is an online degree right for you, what can i do with a doctorate in higher education administration, professional associations.

Note : This page provides details on getting a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration. For master's degree information, please see our Master's in Higher Education Administration page.

Earning a doctoral degree in any field is a huge undertaking. A PhD or EdD in Higher Education Administration requires great dedication and focus. Most of the individuals that obtain a higher education degree seek a career in the educational field. These individuals may teach or lead at higher levels, such as college or university. They may also become administrators. Additionally, educators may choose to move on to teaching at a higher level in public or private schools. Some may choose to go into educational research with their degree. The goal of a PhD or EdD in Higher Education Administration is to prepare graduates to become leaders in whichever field they choose.

Choosing the right college or university may be one of the most difficult decisions graduate students are faced with. When looking into online doctoral programs for higher education administration, it is crucial to know that the institution you choose is accredited, nationally recognized, and reputable. Use the following to help you make an informed decision:

Is the Program Accredited?

First and foremost, find out if the online school is accredited. When a school or program is accredited, you will feel comfortable in knowing that the school will deliver a high caliber of education. The accreditation process is similar to that of peer review. A Doctoral Degree in Higher Education Administration can become accredited once a peer review process is successfully completed by an official organization or agency representing the field. Upon request, online colleges and universities often proudly share their accreditation status. To learn more about accreditation, you can visit: ed.gov/accreditation

How Long Has the Program Been Offered?

Longevity is often a good marker of an online program's success. Do keep in mind that online learning is a relatively new form of education. However, be cautious of schools that have not been around long enough to receive full accreditation. If a school is not accredited, your degree will not be valid - no matter how long the program has been around.

What Technologies Will Be Used to Facilitate Online Learning?

Online doctoral programs in higher education administration facilitate instruction via web-based classrooms. These online learning platforms allow students to access multimedia lectures, view assignments, communicate with peers, and more. Each school uses a different online learning platform. It may be a good idea to familiarize yourself with the program at hand before signing on.

What Resources Will I Have Access To?

Many online schools provide student services such as online resources. Online resources may come in the form of research catalogs, scholarly journals, technology assistance, mentors, and other online tools. Support is important, so be sure the school provides an ample amount.

What Skills and Topics Are Covered?

Find out if the program's curriculum is right for you. In other words, assess whether your career goals are in line with the doctoral program's. Reputable online programs will be able to provide an organized curriculum upon request - presented in the form of measurable program goals and outcomes.

Do You Have Job Placement Information for Students Who Recently Graduated from the Program?

Alumni can act as great career mentors and counselors. Find out what recent graduates from an online higher education administration program have done with their doctoral degree. The success of recent graduates can give you some insight into the legitimacy and effectiveness of an online program.

Earning a PhD or EdD in Higher Education Administration requires a lot of time and dedication. Many people who entertain the idea of getting a doctorate are already working full time. This can make it difficult to fit in classes. Online courses may be the answer for those who are too busy for the traditional brick and mortar classroom. Below we will explore some aspects of online education to help you decide if it's right for you.

Flexible Schedule

As an influx of students choose online doctoral programs, it seems one of the biggest appeals is flexibility. Doctoral candidates may be older and have family and work responsibilities. These huge responsibilities limit their time and ability to attend traditional classes on a college campus. Online schooling gives students the opportunity to study and complete doctoral assignments whenever it fits into their schedule.

Opportunity and Accessibility

Online doctoral programs in higher education administration have created new opportunities for different types of students. Online programs allow students to attend programs regardless of their geographic location, scheduling restrictions, or physical ability. Two basic things are needed for an online education - a computer and internet connection.

Self-Starter

Often times, those who thrive in online courses are self-starters. In other words, students who are able to remain organized, plan studies, and stay on top of their assignments will find easier success in online doctoral programs. Online higher education administration courses are definitely rigorous, so staying on top of assignments is a must.

Tuition and Costs

Earning a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration can be costly no matter what form the education comes in, online or in the classroom. Some financial assistance can be gained through the use of FAFSA , which allows students to qualify for loans and grants. When considering the overall cost for a PhD or EdD, online schools can end up costing less. Take the following costs into consideration:

• With online programs, there are absolutely no costs associated with parking passes, transportation, gas, car maintenance, or on-campus meals.
• Online schooling omits costs related to relocating or living on campus.
• Online students have the ability to maintain a typical work day schedule, since they do not need to attend physical classes. With that said, students are able to continue making a living with their current job.

Doctoral Program Course Topics

Course topics for an Doctorate in Higher Education Administration will vary depending on the school. However, graduate students can expect to see the likes of the following:

Student Development and the Study of College Impact

This class helps students understand teaching at the higher education level and how such levels impact students in that environment.

History of Higher Education

In order to help inform the future of the field, this class focuses on higher education and its overall history throughout the years.

Gender and Higher Education

This class focuses on gender differences in higher education. Though gender differences should not exist, they do, even in higher education courses. The why and how to address such issues are addressed in this course.

Higher Education and Society

Higher education affects everyone involved, even the surrounding community. Society also has a viewpoint on higher education and this is addressed within the class.

Multicultural Issues in American Higher Education

Just as gender issues exist in the realm of higher education administration, so do multicultural issues. This course will focus on these issues and how to deal with them in the academic environment.

The following are some career pathways that may be made possible with a PhD or EdD in Higher Education Administration: college professor , university or college admissions administrator, researcher, professional public speaker, academic dean, academic advisor, and college registrar.

To help stay connected and grow within the field of higher education administration, it may be a good idea to join a professional association, such as the American Association of University Administrators . The AAUA has a mission to develop and advance the standards for the profession of higher education administration. The association works to promote the professional development of those involved in higher education administration.

PhD in Higher Education

Earn a doctoral degree in higher education as preparation for an academic or administrative career.

Loyola's PhD in higher education is an interdisciplinary program that encourage students to connect theory to practice while supporting scholarship on equity and social justice in various postsecondary contexts.

Our commitment to you

Upon graduation with a PhD in higher education from Loyola University, Chicago you will possess knowledge, skills, and professional values necessary to lead as a scholar or lead administrator in higher education, applying advanced and extensive knowledge of equity and social justice.

You will understand the history, foundations, critical issues, and applications of higher education theory and practice. Additionally, you will build a strong foundation in critical social theory, curriculum and pedagogy, student affairs theory, critical issues, and socially-just practices in higher education.

You will gain scholarly frames for understanding various higher education contexts, critically evaluate research (i.e., designs, data analysis, and data interpretation) and apply critical inquiry and research skills to successfully complete your dissertation research.

Professional Values

PhD graduates of Loyola's higher education program are committed to advancing social justice through research, practice, and scholarship.

Program Faculty

Our dedicated Higher Education Faculty   are experts in their fields who will support students throughout each stage of the program.

Program Length

The time toward completion of a doctoral degree varies with each student. A full-time student can complete their coursework in two to three years; the remaining years are spent conducting an original research study and writing the dissertation.

Continuous Enrollment PhD students in Higher Education are required to maintain continuous enrollment during their program of studies. This means that during each semester of each academic year (excluding Summer Sessions), each student must enroll in at least one course. A formal  leave of absence  may be granted upon request and the approval of the School of Education’s Assistant Dean of Student Academic Services.

Admission Requirements

Interested in applying? Check out the  PhD Higher Education application requirements .

• For  application  related questions,  contact Graduate Enrollment Management . 
• For  program structure and academics  related questions, email  [email protected]

Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships

The School of Education and Loyola's Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure the necessary financial resources to make their education at Loyola affordable. You can learn more on the  Financial Assistance  page.

How long does it take to finish the program?

What are the career paths for those who earn a phd in higher education.

Our alumni include university professors, directors of cultural centers, policy analysts, community-based organization managers, student affairs administrators at all levels (including executive positions), consultants, and other education-related careers.

Can I visit the campus or sit in on a class?

During COVID-19, we are not hosting class visits. Check back for updates as the situation changes.

Is there funding available for my doctoral studies?

We aim to support full-time doctoral students with graduate assistantships, which generally include a combination of tuition remission and a stipend.

Who will be my advisor/dissertation chair?

The advisee-advisor match is initially determined upon admittance to the program, however, we, as a faculty, work to ensure that this process is as organic as possible. Therefore, changes may occur as you develop your scholarly identity within the program.

Can I make an appointment to talk to someone about the program?

Absolutely! Feel free to contact contact us at  [email protected]  to get started.

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PhD in Higher Education Studies & Leadership (HESL)

Phd in higher education studies and leadership (hesl).

The Baylor University Higher Education Studies and Leadership PhD program offers a   full-time, residential   education   for those who desire to have a meaningful, lasting influence on higher education. The program combines a commitment to the Christian faith, academic rigor, research, and professional experience in order to prepare future scholars and practitioners for leadership roles.

Faith-Forward

We believe that we are called as Christians to pursue excellence in all areas of life, including our academic endeavors. As such, the HESL program both requires courses that explicitly focus on matters of faith within the higher education context. Additionally, students are challenged to think about the field of higher education and its most pressing issues from a theological point of view within the context of an R1 institution. 

Fully Funded

We are a fully funded program, meaning that if you are accepted, your tuition is covered. In addition to this funding, students in the program work a 20-hour per week apprenticeship, which provides a stipend to help cover living costs.

Residential Cohort Model

The HESL program consists of three years of in-person coursework, beginning in the fall and including the summers between academic years. Following coursework comes dissertation research (typically taking one to two additional years). Courses are taken alongside a small cohort of students from around the country and world who support and challenge one another inside and outside the classroom. The typical size of a cohort is three students.

The HESL degree plan seeks to strike a balance between structure and specialization. Students progress through a series of courses alongside others in the program; however, the program sets aside elective hours for students to use for courses both inside and outside the department to help meet their professional and research interests.

HESL PhD Degree Plan

Through participating in HESL, students will be able to:

• Synthesize diverse educational traditions into a comprehensive framework, enhancing your understanding of educational history and philosophy 
• Analyze higher education problems using theological, moral, and data or social science-oriented frameworks
• Understand, analyze, and evaluate the trends currently impacting higher education
• Understand various leadership theories and apply them to specific problems within higher education institutional settings
• Demonstrate knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of qualitative and quantitative research and the skills relevant to producing high-quality research in higher education

As part of the HESL program, all students work in a 20-hour/week apprenticeship. These apprenticeships range from research assistant positions within the department to administrative roles in departments throughout the university (with the occasional availability of assistantships at other institutions in the surrounding area). Apprenticeships are meant to provide professional development opportunities in addition to providing funds to cover living costs. Full-time employes at Baylor who are enrolled in HESL will not be assigned an apprenticeship.

 Below are some of the areas in which our students have taken on apprenticeships ( note: availability of apprenticeships varies from year to year and are subject to change ).

• Research Assistant to a HESL faculty member
• Institutional Effectiveness
• Judicial Affairs
• Baylor Graduate School
• Honors Residential College
• Medical Humanities
• Baylor University Libraries
• The Academy for Teaching and Learning
• McLennan Community College
• University of Mary-Hardin Baylor
• Texas State Technical College

Explore HESL

Educational leadership.

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Higher Education Leadership Ph.D. (Hybrid)

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

Online Ph.D. in higher education from CSU

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

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

Prepare to advance as an administrative leader

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

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

Join a program that fosters success

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

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

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

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

Gain real-world insight from scholar-practitioners

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

Health and Human Science Matters Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, July 14, 2025 – Friday, July 18, 2025, with new student orientation on Sunday, July 13 in the afternoon.

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

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

Ryan P. Barone

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

Kari Dockendorff

They/Them/Theirs

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

Susan C. Faircloth

She/Her/Hers

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

Alex C. Lange

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about CSU's rankings and accolades.

Requirements

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

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

Coursework:

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

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

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

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

Application Deadlines

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

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

1 Review Admission Requirements

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

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

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

2 Prepare Application Materials

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

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

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

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

Resume or vita: Please include:

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

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

3 Complete Online Application

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

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

4 Request Transcripts

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

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

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

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

5 Interviews and Writing Sample

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

Check Your Application Status

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

For International Applicants

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

Learn more about English language proficiency requirements .

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

Program Details

• Master's degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution

Application Dates

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