phd in higher education administration

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

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The Harvard Ph.D. in Education trains cutting-edge researchers who work across disciplines to generate knowledge and translate discoveries into transformative policy and practice.

Offered jointly by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the Ph.D. in Education provides you with full access to the extraordinary resources of Harvard University and prepares you to assume meaningful roles as university faculty, researchers, senior-level education leaders, and policymakers.

As a Ph.D. candidate, you will collaborate with scholars across all Harvard graduate schools on original interdisciplinary research. In the process, you will help forge new fields of inquiry that will impact the way we teach and learn. The program’s required coursework will develop your knowledge of education and your expertise in a range of quantitative and qualitative methods needed to conduct high-quality research. Guided by the goal of making a transformative impact on education research, policy, and practice, you will focus on independent research in various domains, including human development, learning and teaching, policy analysis and evaluation, institutions and society, and instructional practice.   

Curriculum Information

The Ph.D. in Education requires five years of full-time study to complete. You will choose your individual coursework and design your original research in close consultation with your HGSE faculty adviser and dissertation committee. The requirements listed below include the three Ph.D. concentrations: Culture, Institutions, and Society; Education Policy and Program Evaluation; and Human Development, Learning and Teaching . 

We invite you to review an example course list, which is provided in two formats — one as the full list by course number and one by broad course category . These lists are subject to modification. 

Ph.D. Concentrations and Examples

Summary of Ph.D. Program

Doctoral Colloquia  In year one and two you are required to attend. The colloquia convenes weekly and features presentations of work-in-progress and completed work by Harvard faculty, faculty and researchers from outside Harvard, and Harvard doctoral students. Ph.D. students present once in the colloquia over the course of their career.

Research Apprenticeship The Research Apprenticeship is designed to provide ongoing training and mentoring to develop your research skills throughout the entire program.

Teaching Fellowships The Teaching Fellowship is an opportunity to enhance students' teaching skills, promote learning consolidation, and provide opportunities to collaborate with faculty on pedagogical development.

Comprehensive Exams  The Written Exam (year 2, spring) tests you on both general and concentration-specific knowledge. The Oral Exam (year 3, fall/winter) tests your command of your chosen field of study and your ability to design, develop, and implement an original research project.

Dissertation  Based on your original research, the dissertation process consists of three parts: the Dissertation Proposal, the writing, and an oral defense before the members of your dissertation committee.

Culture, Institutions, and Society (CIS) Concentration

In CIS, you will examine the broader cultural, institutional, organizational, and social contexts relevant to education across the lifespan. What is the value and purpose of education? How do cultural, institutional, and social factors shape educational processes and outcomes? How effective are social movements and community action in education reform? How do we measure stratification and institutional inequality? In CIS, your work will be informed by theories and methods from sociology, history, political science, organizational behavior and management, philosophy, and anthropology. You can examine contexts as diverse as classrooms, families, neighborhoods, schools, colleges and universities, religious institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, and more.

Education Policy and Program Evaluation (EPPE) Concentration

In EPPE, you will research the design, implementation, and evaluation of education policy affecting early childhood, K–12, and postsecondary education in the U.S. and internationally. You will evaluate and assess individual programs and policies related to critical issues like access to education, teacher effectiveness, school finance, testing and accountability systems, school choice, financial aid, college enrollment and persistence, and more. Your work will be informed by theories and methods from economics, political science, public policy, and sociology, history, philosophy, and statistics. This concentration shares some themes with CIS, but your work with EPPE will focus on public policy and large-scale reforms.

Human Development, Learning and Teaching (HDLT) Concentration

In HDLT, you will work to advance the role of scientific research in education policy, reform, and practice. New discoveries in the science of learning and development — the integration of biological, cognitive, and social processes; the relationships between technology and learning; or the factors that influence individual variations in learning — are transforming the practice of teaching and learning in both formal and informal settings. Whether studying behavioral, cognitive, or social-emotional development in children or the design of learning technologies to maximize understanding, you will gain a strong background in human development, the science of learning, and sociocultural factors that explain variation in learning and developmental pathways. Your research will be informed by theories and methods from psychology, cognitive science, sociology and linguistics, philosophy, the biological sciences and mathematics, and organizational behavior.

Program Faculty

The most remarkable thing about the Ph.D. in Education is open access to faculty from all Harvard graduate and professional schools, including the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Harvard Kennedy School, the Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and the Harvard School of Public Health. Learn about the full Ph.D. Faculty.

Jarvis R. Givens

Jarvis Givens studies the history of American education, African American history, and the relationship between race and power in schools.

Paul L. Harris

Paul Harris is interested in the early development of cognition, emotion, and imagination in children.

Meira Levinson

Meira Levinson is a normative political philosopher who works at the intersection of civic education, youth empowerment, racial justice, and educational ethics. 

Luke W. Miratrix

Luke Miratrix is a statistician who explores how to best use modern statistical methods in applied social science contexts.

Eric Taylor

Eric Taylor studies the economics of education, with a particular interest in employer-employee interactions between schools and teachers — hiring and firing decisions, job design, training, and performance evaluation.

Paola Uccelli

Paola Ucelli studies socio-cultural and individual differences in the language development of multilingual and monolingual students.

View Ph.D. Faculty

Dissertations.

The following is a complete listing of successful Ph.D. in Education dissertations to-date. Dissertations from November 2014 onward are publicly available in the Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH) , the online repository for Harvard scholarship.

• 2022 Graduate Dissertations (265 KB pdf)
• 2021 Graduate Dissertations (177 KB pdf)
• 2020 Graduate Dissertations (121 KB pdf)
• 2019 Graduate Dissertations (68.3 KB pdf)

Student Directory

An opt-in listing of current Ph.D. students with information about their interests, research, personal web pages, and contact information:

Doctor of Philosophy in Education Student Directory

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Doctor of Philosophy in Education experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Elevating Teacher Voices in Professional Development Planning and Design

A new study co-authored by Megan Satterthwaite-Freiman highlights the need for more effective and personalized training on how to lead conversations about sensitive topics in the classroom

Honoring the Cultural Backgrounds of All Students

A new research paper provides a model for social and emotional learning in schools that is culturally sustaining  

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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.

Related News & Research

Damani White-Lewis highlights bias in faculty promotions in "Nature Human Behaviour"

Penn GSE explores equity in global AI education research project

Professor of Practice Julie Wollman discusses faculty burnout — and possible solutions — in the Chronicle of Higher Education

Policy Corner: SCOTUS decision striking down Biden admin's Student Loan Forgiveness Program will have wide-ranging consequences

Institute for Research on Higher Education

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

Alliance for Higher Education and Democracy (Penn AHEAD)

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

You May Be Interested In

Related programs.

• Education Policy Ph.D.
• Executive Doctorate in Higher Education Management Ed.D.
• Higher Education Ed.D.
• Higher Education M.S.Ed.

Related Topics

Best Higher Education Administration Programs

Ranked in 2024, part of Best Education Schools

A degree in higher education administration helps

A degree in higher education administration helps future heads of colleges and universities and other administrators learn how to lead effectively. These are the top schools for graduate programs in higher education administration. Read the methodology »

For full rankings, GRE scores and student debt data, sign up for the U.S. News Education School Compass .

Here are the Best Higher Education Administration Programs

Michigan state university, university of michigan--ann arbor, university of pennsylvania, pennsylvania state university--university park, university of california--los angeles, vanderbilt university (peabody), university of georgia, university of southern california (rossier), indiana university--bloomington.

SEE THE FULL RANKINGS

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East Lansing , MI

• # 1 in Higher Education Administration
• # 21 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$900 per credit (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,737 per credit (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

708 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at Michigan State University has an application deadline of Dec. 1. The application fee for... Read More »

Education school

Tuition and fees (doctorate).

$900 per credit (in-state, full-time)

$1,737 per credit (out-of-state, full-time)

ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

Average gre verbal (doctorate).

Ann Arbor , MI

• # 2 in Higher Education Administration  (tie)
• # 3 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$27,714 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$55,826 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

433 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The School of Education at University of Michigan--Ann Arbor has a rolling application deadline. The application fee... Read More »

$27,714 per year (in-state, full-time)

$55,826 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Philadelphia , PA

• # 7 in Best Education Schools

$1,854 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,854 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

1,013 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The School of Education at University of Pennsylvania has an application deadline of Dec. 1. The application fee for... Read More »

$1,854 per credit (full-time)

$1,854 per credit (part-time)

University Park , PA

• # 4 in Higher Education Administration
• # 46 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$24,956 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$43,266 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

421 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at Pennsylvania State University--University Park has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$24,956 per year (in-state, full-time)

$43,266 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Los Angeles , CA

• # 5 in Higher Education Administration

$12,264 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$27,366 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

617 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The education school at University of California--Los Angeles has an application deadline of Dec. 1. The application... Read More »

$12,264 per year (in-state, full-time)

$27,366 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Nashville , TN

• # 6 in Higher Education Administration
• # 5 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$2,241 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$2,241 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

763 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University (Peabody) has an application deadline... Read More »

$2,241 per credit (full-time)

$2,241 per credit (part-time)

Athens , GA

• # 7 in Higher Education Administration
• # 30 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$8,878 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$25,186 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

854 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at University of Georgia has an application deadline of July 1. The application fee for the... Read More »

$8,878 per year (in-state, full-time)

$25,186 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

• # 8 in Higher Education Administration
• Unranked in Best Education Schools

N/A TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

N/A ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Rossier School of Education at University of Southern California (Rossier) has an application deadline of Nov. 1... Read More »

Bloomington , IN

• # 9 in Higher Education Administration  (tie)
• # 34 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$460 per credit (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,545 per credit (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

335 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The education school at Indiana University--Bloomington has an application deadline of Jan. 15. The application fee for... Read More »

$460 per credit (in-state, full-time)

$1,545 per credit (out-of-state, full-time)

Ohio State University

Columbus , OH

$12,515 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$40,245 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

496 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education and Human Ecology at Ohio State University has an application deadline of Dec. 1. The... Read More »

$12,515 per year (in-state, full-time)

$40,245 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Harvard University

Cambridge , MA

• # 11 in Higher Education Administration  (tie)
• # 8 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

728 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The application fee for the education program at Harvard University is $85. The Graduate School of Education at Harvard... Read More »

University of Maryland--College Park

College Park , MD

• # 25 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$828 per credit (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,805 per credit (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

422 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The College of Education at University of Maryland--College Park has an application deadline of Dec. 1. The application... Read More »

$828 per credit (in-state, full-time)

$1,805 per credit (out-of-state, full-time)

See all 36 Ranked Schools

Get the U.S. News Grad Schools School Compass and start finding the grad schools school that's right for you. You'll have access to expanded data including GMAT scores, financial aid information, graduate salary and employment statistics and more!

More Schools in this List (Alphabetical)

Arizona State University (Fulton)

Phoenix , AZ

• in Higher Education Administration
• # 17 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$12,376 per year (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$25,722 per year (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

798 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University (Fulton) has a rolling application deadline. The... Read More »

$12,376 per year (in-state, full-time)

$25,722 per year (out-of-state, full-time)

Boston College (Lynch)

Chestnut Hill , MA

• # 23 in Best Education Schools  (tie)

$1,688 per credit (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$1,688 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

336 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Lynch School of Education and Human Development at Boston College (Lynch) has an application deadline of Jan. 4... Read More »

$1,688 per credit (full-time)

$1,688 per credit (part-time)

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore , MD

$1,900 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

461 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The School of Education at Johns Hopkins University has a rolling application deadline. The application fee for the... Read More »

$1,900 per credit (part-time)

New York University (Steinhardt)

New York , NY

$50,424 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

$2,101 per credit (part-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

1,320 ENROLLMENT (FULL-TIME)

The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University (Steinhardt) has an... Read More »

$50,424 per year (full-time)

$2,101 per credit (part-time)

Stanford University

Stanford , CA

$58,746 per year (full-time) TUITION AND FEES (DOCTORATE)

The application fee for the education program at Stanford University is $125. Its tuition is full-time: $58,746 per... Read More »

$58,746 per year (full-time)

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

Degree Options

View Degree Options

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

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

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

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

What is a PhD in Higher Education Administration?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Featured Courses

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

PhD in Higher Education Online Degree Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

Potential Career Options

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

Degree Options for the PhD in Higher Education Administration

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

Assessment and Evaluation

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

View the  Degree Completion Plan .

Educational Leadership

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

Student Affairs

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

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 ) .

Tuition rates may change annually. For the most current information, please visit our LU Tuition Cost page.

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

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

Admission requirements.

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

Preliminary Acceptance

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

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

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

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

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

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

Who May Qualify?

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

Military Tuition Discount

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

Frequently Asked Questions About the PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree

Is a phd in higher education administration worth it.

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

Should I get a PhD in Higher Education Administration?

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

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

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

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

What can you do with a PhD in Higher Education?

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

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

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Higher Education Leadership and Policy – Doctoral Program

Higher education leadership and policy.

Doctoral Program

Department of Educational Leadership and Policy

The Program in Higher Education Leadership and Policy (PHELP) is devoted to the scholarly study of higher education, its students and institutions, and its place in society. This program prepares, trains, and educates students to become researchers in academia and the private sector. 

Our faculty and students are in the vanguard of understanding and shaping the dynamic environment of higher education now and in the future. Higher education is being reconceived and reorganized through: increased access and challenges in retention and completion for more diverse student communities, intensified accountability and governmental oversight, the need for lifelong avenues of learning and re-training, and the opportunities presented by digital innovations both in and out of the classroom.

Students seeking a Ph.D. receive a thorough grounding in the functioning of postsecondary institutions and in the skills of administration, decision-making, and leadership. They develop an understanding of the particular role of postsecondary institutions in society as both distributors and creators of knowledge, the historical context from which those institutions have emerged, and the ethical considerations that must surround and guide the enterprise.

Finally, the program prepares doctoral students to be consumers and producers of postsecondary research and scholarship, while socializing students towards possible careers in academia and higher education leadership. This degree emphasizes preparation for a research career in which the graduate will add to the core of knowledge that is the basis for informed practice. The curriculum is oriented toward the development of theory and research skills in a variety of methodologies and includes a strong secondary emphasis in a cognate field of study.

This program starts in the fall semester.

Application Requirements

All graduate students are required to apply through the  Graduate School  website. We strongly encourage you to start this process well in advance of the deadline to allow us time to process your information. Applicants who miss the application deadline may be allowed to begin in the spring or summer. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis by emailing the director of this program an explanation of why the application was delayed.

The GRE is no longer required for those applying for admission to the PHEL Ph.D. program. If applicants choose to submit GRE scores, they will not be reviewed or considered by the admissions committee.

Requirements:

• A master’s degree  from an accredited U.S. institution, or proof of equivalent training at a foreign institution in education, the social sciences, or related field. 
• why you are interested in a doctoral degree in the Program in Higher Education Leadership and Policy (PHELP) at UT Austin;
• what life experiences have contributed to your decision to apply to our program;
• what personal experiences, achievements, and accomplishments would compel the department to evaluate your contributions to the University’s diversity mission;
• what type of research you would be interested in conducting and which faculty member(s) you would like to work with; and
• what your career aspirations are once you complete your degree. 
• Submission of a 4-6 page writing sample  (e.g., master’s thesis, published article, paper prepared for a professional conference, etc.) after you receive an acknowledgment email from the Graduate School). This email will also contain your UT EID. Please upload your writing sample to the “Miscellaneous Admissions Document” section .
• Three recommendation letters

Degree Requirements

Upon satisfactory completion of at least 30 semester credit hours of the required and elective coursework, preparation begins for Advancement to Candidacy. Upon advancement, the student is authorized by the Department and the Graduate School to proceed with the dissertation. Advancement requires the following:

Mid-Program Review and Specialization Paper The Departmental Mid-Program Review and the Specialization Paper (SP) are required. 

Advancement to Candidacy When the student and the mentor are satisfied that the above requirements have been met, the Departmental Graduate Studies Committee is presented with the coursework completed or planned, the results of the examinations, an abstract of the proposed dissertation, and the proposed chair and membership of the dissertation committee. Upon final approval by the Committee, a recommendation is forwarded to the Graduate School that the student be advanced to candidacy and permitted to proceed with the dissertation.

Learn more about doctoral program milestones on the department’s wiki.

Core Faculty

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

Higher education finance and policy, with a focus on equity in policymaking processes and the effects of policies Current research topics include: • the differential effects of free college (or Promise) programs on students and higher education in...

Expertise on the intersection of law and educational policies and practices focused on access and equity in higher education, including affirmative action, freedom of expression and inclusion, and the use and influence of research in law.

Accepting new students

Focuses on student governance and involvement in the areas of college student government, the student body presidency, sorority/fraternity life, equity and justice issues, queer students and issues in higher education, and educational crises and emer...

Bringing the experience of 28 years as dean of the College of Education, Justiz shares his expertise in topics of public policy, the politics of education, and providing equal access for minorities in education.

Interests include academic administration, faculty in higher education, and college student development with research on college teaching and minorities in higher education.

Leads the Project MALES (Mentoring to Achieve Latino Educational Success Initiative focused on Latino males in education; seeks to advance research-informed policy solutions that enhance educational outcomes for students in secondary and post-seconda...

Studies how to ameliorate social inequities in the United States through higher education policy; focuses on college pathways at broad-access institutions, including community colleges.

The following core faculty will be taking new doctoral students for the 2025-2026 academic year: Dr. Stella M. Flores, Dr. Denisa Gándara, Dr. Liliana M. Garces, Dr. Michael A. Goodman, Dr. Victor Sáenz and Dr. Lauren Schudde.

Affiliated Faculty

Manages and coordinates multiple research and evaluation grants and contracts for the Educational Research Center.

Focuses research on student success and graduation initiatives, including innovative college readiness assignments, student success programs and understanding the completion agenda.

Oversees the Center’s community college relations and serves as a point of contact for state leaders, funders and national higher education organizations.

Focuses on policies, practices, and interventions that promote social mobility and reduce socioeconomic stratification in K12 and higher education.

Interests include: student affairs administration, professional staff development, college student development, retention programs for students of color.

Teaches courses that examine the intersectionality of culture, organizations, and systems of privilege, power, and difference in higher education.

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

Works in support of first-generation, low-income and underserved populations in the areas of student development, retention, academic support, assessment and advising.

Shares her expertise in student affairs, higher education policy, administration and finance, strategic planning, and leadership development.

Examines the experiences of faculty of color at predominantly White institutions; mentoring relationships between faculty and Black students; and work-life balance in academia.

Centers research on college student identity development, personal branding for student leaders, and work/life integration for student affairs administrators

Academic technology, technology-enhanced learning, learning technologies, online education, college teaching and learning, course evaluations, design thinking, design pedagogy, learning experience design, and developing expertise in generative AI too...

Focuses on university-wide campus climate initiatives such as developing inclusive classrooms, campus climate issues and support, and recruitment/retention of faculty of color at predominantly white institutions.

Serves as the Associate Director for Student Learning and Development and researches post-qualitative and post-structuralist methodologies, discourse analysis, and gender performance.

Expertise in Title IV policy and administration and higher education fundraising. Focused on issues of college affordability, under-represented student recruitment, and donor relations.

Additional Resources

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At a Glance

Program Starts : Fall

Deadline to Apply : December 1

Credit Hours Required : minimum 66 hours including dissertation

Schedule : Full time or part time permitted per discussion with program head

Program Location : On Campus

GRE Required? No

Program Co-coordinator Liliana Garces

Program Co-coordinator Lauren Schudde

Program Co-coordinator Michael Anthony Goodman

Find out information about the admission process and application requirements.

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Discover the exciting research and work being done by faculty and students in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy. 

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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    

Upcoming Info Sessions    

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:

Foggy Bottom 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 >

The following requirements must be fulfilled: A minimum of 53 credits and successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

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

Alumna, Dr. Peg Anthony, Named Among Top 50 Women Leaders in Maryland

October 24, 2024

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

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Higher Education Administration, Ph.D.

• Learning Outcomes
• Requirements
• Contact Info

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]