online doctorate in higher education administration

Doctor of Education Higher Education

Complete in 26-38 months 100% online.

Next Start Date: August 2024

Fairleigh Dickinson University is ranked #14 in Best Value Schools in the north by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges 2024 .

Meet the needs of diverse students and address ongoing systemic issues with the online Ed.D. Higher Education program from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Delivered in an interactive online learning platform, the Ed.D. program is designed to create professionals who are effective leaders of higher education. As a doctoral student, you will gain the skills necessary for diverse administrative leadership careers in college and university settings as you explore the utilization of data analytics to solve problems within higher education. In addition, the Ed.D. in Higher Education online program will also help you build a strong understanding of sustainable global practices and learn to apply them to support your local community, institution and the needs of your students.

OUR ONLINE ED.D. HIGHER EDUCATION HELPS YOU DEVELOP CAREER-ENHANCING COMPETENCIES IN AREAS SUCH AS:

• Applying data analytics
• Globally minded solutions to systemic issues within education
• Strategizing partnerships between employers and educators
• Enrollment and retention
• Educational innovation
• Creating an inclusive culture for an institution

The Ed.D. Higher Education online program can be completed entirely online in 26-38 months. Requirements include a dissertation and the completion of 45 credits through a variety of courses that cover essential higher education topics, including academic innovation, effective retention methods, data analysis, field internships and more. Courses are taught in 8-week sessions by educators with recognized expertise in inclusive higher education, data analytics, and program assessment, as well as years of field experience. There will also be opportunities for summer residencies, which include symposia, workshops and interdisciplinary projects.

Created with working individuals in mind, the Ed.D. Higher Education online program is delivered through Fairleigh Dickinson University’s online classroom with flexible schedule options to help you balance the next step in your education with your full-time professional and personal responsibilities. Study online when it’s convenient and wherever your busy schedule takes you.

Not eligible for this program yet? Accelerate your path to the Doctorate:

If you complete the Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration program, you will receive Advanced Standing into the Ed.D in Higher Education program. Six (6) credits will automatically be applied towards the 45-credit hour Doctorate upon admission. If you take an Ed.D. course within the Master of Higher Education Administration program, it will count for both programs, and you can transfer an additional 3 credits for a total of 9 transfer credits into the Ed.D. in Higher Education program.

Click here to read more about the Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration and the accelerated path to the Ed.D. in Higher Education.

Courses and Requirements

The Ed.D. Higher Education online program combines data analytics with social justice to prepare students for diverse roles in college and university settings. While navigating a curriculum founded on innovative academic solutions, students will become proficient in effective and current administrative practices, database management, statistical analysis and more.

• EDUC 8650 Organization and Administration in Higher Education
• EDUC 8651 History of Higher Education
• EDUC 8652 Database Management and Reporting in Higher Education
• EDUC 8653 Sustainable Development and Higher Education
• EDUC 8654 Innovation and Technology in Higher Education
• EDUC 8655 Building an Inclusive University Culture
• EDUC 8656 Enrollment Management
• EDUC 8657 Community Development and Workforce Skills in Higher Education
• EDUC 8658 Higher Education Policy
• EDUC 8659 Data Analytics and Visualization in Higher Education
• EDUC 8660 Field-based Internship I
• EDUC 8661 Assessment and Evaluation in Higher Education
• EDUC 8662 Quantitative and Statistical Analysis
• EDUC 8663 Research Methods and Design
• EDUC 8664 Dissertation Seminar
• EDUC 8665 Continuous Matriculation

Admission Requirements

All applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and have completed a master’s program from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA. A complete application includes:

• Graduate application form
• Experience in higher education or related field and career goals after earning the Ed. D. degree
• The doctoral dissertation research topic or research question the student plans to pursue, including a problem of practice*
• Two letters of recommendation
• A resume that states the student’s educational background, work experience and professional goals
• Official graduate and undergraduate transcripts
• An interview with the Program Director
• Previous work experience in higher education is preferred

*A problem of practice is a persistent, contextualized, and specific issue embedded in the work of a professional practitioner, the addressing of which has the potential to result in improved understanding, experience, and outcomes (CPED, 2023).

Request Information Apply Now

Program Faculty and Staff

Joel B. Adams, Ed.D., Program Coordinator [email protected] (201) 692-2079

Joshua Bornstein, Associate Professor of Educational Leadership and Interim Director of Higher Education Program [email protected] (201) 357-0381

Dr. Amy Cardace, Assistant Professor of Higher Education [email protected]

Dr. Frederick Engram, Jr., Assistant Professor of Higher Education [email protected]

Dr. Catherine Manly, Assistant Professor of Higher Education [email protected]

Dr. Ashley Robinson, Assistant Professor of Higher Education [email protected]

Financial Aid

FDU strives to ensure all students can afford their education. Through a combination of scholarships, grants, loans and more, we offered more than $70 million in university-funded aid in 2017.

Transfer Credit

FDU allows you to apply academic credits from other institutions towards your degree.

Military Students

FDU is a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon program and is listed as a Best College for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report.

Personalized Learning

Through its small intimate classes and superb faculty, FDU offers students a hands-on approach to learning that caters to individual needs.

A Global Community

Our multi-disciplinary programs reach and connect students across the world.

Academic Excellence

Through our commitment to providing rigorous programs, students at FDU are poised to become the next generation of leaders.

Benefits of Learning Online

Pursuing an online degree means the chance to further your career.

Career Outcomes

Career and salary information via Payscale.com

College of Professional Studies

Northeastern University’s online Doctor of Education program provides experienced adult learners, working professionals, and scholar-practitioners from diverse backgrounds and perspectives with the practical knowledge and experience they need to transform the learning landscape. Students gain innovative approaches to create authentic change in their communities. The program was selected as the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate's Program of the Year for 2022-2023.

The Doctor of Education program is designed to be completed in three to four years of study—following a fast-paced quarter system in lieu of a traditional semester format. Students choose from five concentrations to create a curriculum that matches personal and professional interests. The program's dissertation in practice process will begin at the onset of your coursework as you identify your problem of practice and develop an action plan—incorporating cycles of data collection and analysis, collaboration, change work, and reflection—culminating in the dissemination of your action research findings. Our students come from diverse disciplines and professions, seeking more than just a degree. You'll gain a practical education that translates to your everyday working environment.

While all EdD courses can be completed online (except for hybrid courses in Seattle and Charlotte), annual in-person two-day residencies are held on campus. Residencies focus on networking and tools for career success and allow you to connect with faculty and fellow scholars to share knowledge and experience. You'll attend residencies* in your first and second years of the program at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.

The Northeastern Doctor of Education degree is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and was selected as Program of the Year by the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Program for 2022-2023.

*Please note: International students enrolling in the online EdD program will be provided with an option to complete the residency through online participation in interactive sessions with fellow scholars offered during the residency period.

More Details

Unique features.

• You will choose one of five concentrations—higher education administration, innovative teaching and learning, transformative school leadership, workplace learning, and integrative studies—to focus your studies and further customize your curriculum.
• You'll begin dissertation in practice work at the onset of your program. You'll select a compelling educational/organizational challenge and will be assigned a faculty advisor to support your research throughout the program.
• All coursework is online—providing flexibility for working professionals. Your residencies will be fulfilled in person*, at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.
• You'll learn alongside faculty practitioners—engaging with respected leaders who contribute to the field as authors, journal editors, school board members, bloggers, and podcasters.

*In-person participation in the residency is also available for international students.

Concentrations

• Higher Education Administration: The higher education administration concentration provides an opportunity for experienced higher education professionals to expand their previous understanding of practices within all sectors of postsecondary education—and also advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their understanding of the roles of colleges and universities in our society. Sectors examined include community colleges, four-year colleges, for-profit institutions, and research universities.
• Innovative Teaching and Learning: The innovative teaching and learning concentration focuses on transforming education through innovation, justice, and policy, by providing engaging opportunities for current and aspiring teaching and learning specialists working in various education spaces. The concentration focuses on teaching and learning both inside and outside the bounds of P-20 schools and focuses on developing and leading innovative curricula as well as professional development.
• Transformative School Leadership: The transformative school leadership concentration provides innovative opportunities for experienced education professionals who are current and aspiring leaders of early childhood centers, public or private schools, or school districts. The concentration prepares students to lead and transform educational spaces and be equipped to shape the needs of education in K-12, higher education, organizational contexts, and beyond.
• Workplace Learning: The workplace learning concentration helps professionals gain a deeper understanding of, recognize, and influence real-life social inequalities faced by marginalized populations in the workplace. Courses allow students to advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their knowledge of workplace learning, organizational dynamics, learning strategy, and ethics.
• Integrative Studies: The integrative studies concentration provides an opportunity for students to design a program of study that fits their own professional goals and includes the required foundation and research courses, concentration courses from any EdD concentration, and electives from the Doctor of Education or Doctor of Law and Policy programs.

Program Objectives

Northeastern's Doctor of Education program is designed for experienced professionals interested in deepening their understanding of education, organizational development, and leadership. Throughout the program, students examine various approaches to critical, practice-based issues, learn research methods, and conduct a doctoral research study that investigates a compelling educational or organizational challenge.

2022-2023 Doctor of Education Program of the Year

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate selected Northeastern's EdD program as the 2022-2023 Program of the Year, noting the “redesigned Dissertation in Practice Curriculum and the adoption of action research as its guiding methodology …” The committee praised “the program’s efforts to move beyond the typical five-chapter dissertation and engage scholarly practitioners in the acquisition of skills to realize meaningful change in their local contexts, emphasizing social justice.”

Testimonials

– sara ewell, phd, assistant dean, graduate school of education, – frawn morgan, current student, doctor of education, – aaron b., program graduate, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• Academic transcripts: Official undergraduate and graduate degree documentation
• Describe the problem of practice
• Explain why you want to investigate it
• Provide a strong rationale for the significance of the problem
• Minimum work experience: Three years in a related field
• Professional resumé: Must summarize work and education history, include an outline of your educational/academic skills with examples such as research and teaching experience, affiliations, publications, certifications, presentations, and other professional skills.
• Faculty recommendation: Must be from a faculty member in your previous graduate program who can attest to your readiness for doctoral work. If you are no longer acquainted with a faculty member, please choose a professional who can speak of your academic capabilities to engage in doctoral-level research and writing. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Two professional recommendations: Must be from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities, a supervisor, mentor, or colleague. It is preferred that one letter of recommendation come from your current employer and/or supervisor. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Proof of English language proficiency: ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

The core of the mission of the program is to allow educators to remain in the places they work, focus on a problem of practice, and through experiential learning and site-specific research opportunities in the program, make an immediate impact in their professional environments. The program explicitly integrates research and practice for professionals so they develop the requisite skills for conceiving, designing, conducting, and producing original site-based research in order to effect ethical change related to real-life problems of practice.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Joseph McNabb, PhD

Cherese Childers-McKee, PhD

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Education & Learning alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Boston Public Schools
• Chicago Public Schools
• NYC Department of Education
• Lockheed Martin
• Veterans Affairs
• Johns Hopkins
• Columbia University

What They Do

• Media Consultant
• College President
• Chief Information Officer
• Instructional Designer
• Diversity Officer
• Founder-CEO
• VP of Student Services
• Community Services Director

What They're Skilled At

• Experiential Learning
• Team Building
• International Education
• Change Agency
• Entrepreneurship
• Urban Education
• Strategic Management
• Student Engagement

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Staff Writers

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated September 14, 2023

TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

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

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

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

Featured Online Doctorate in Higher Education Programs

The best online doctorate in higher education programs.

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

#1 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Andrews University

• Berrien Springs, MI
• Online + Campus

The Ed.D. in higher education administration program at Andrews University enrolls online learners. With flexible enrollment options, the private school helps degree-seekers earn a doctorate. Doctoral students work closely with faculty mentors and career advisors.

In the online higher education administration program, learners take doctoral-level coursework. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research for an original dissertation or project. Professionals with a higher education administration doctorate work in academia, research, and leadership roles.

At the accredited institution, doctoral students can use fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to pay for their degree. Contact the program for more information about research support and financial aid.

Andrews University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 918

Online Master's Programs: 7

Online Doctoral Programs: 6

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $27,216

#2 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Colorado State University

• Fort Collins, CO

The online higher education leadership program, offered by Colorado State University, ranks as a top program in the field. With its flexible format, the public university makes a doctorate more accessible. Doctoral students engage in advanced research and benefit from support services.

The online higher education leadership program requires doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates spend 1-2 years researching and writing their dissertation. With a higher education leadership doctorate, graduates work in academia, research positions, and leadership roles.

At the accredited institution, doctoral students qualify for several forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about financial aid opportunities, admission requirements, and start dates.

Colorado State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 8,786

Online Master's Programs: 19

Online Doctoral Programs: 2

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,520

#3 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Gwynedd Mercy University

• Gwynedd Valley, PA

Gwynedd Mercy University offers a top-ranked online executive Ed.D. in education program. At the private institution, degree-seekers take doctoral classes in a flexible format. Doctoral students benefit from support services like career advising.

During the online Ed.D. in education program, learners complete advanced coursework. Doctoral candidates pass comprehensive examinations and conduct research for their dissertation. Graduates with a doctorate in higher education work in academic, research, and industry positions.

Online doctoral students at the accredited institution qualify for several forms of financial aid. Contact the education program to learn more about the enrollment process and start dates.

Gwynedd Mercy University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,349

Online Master's Programs: 16

Online Doctoral Programs: 4

Graduate Tuition Rate: $13,749

#4 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Maryville University

• Saint Louis, MO

The doctorate in higher education leadership program at Maryville University appeals to doctoral students seeking an online route to their degree. At the private institution, degree-seekers take doctoral classes in a flexible format. Doctoral students receive library access, research support, and career services.

During the online higher education leadership program, learners complete advanced coursework. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates conduct research and defend an original dissertation that contributes to the field. With a doctorate in higher education leadership, graduates pursue academic, research, and industry roles.

At the accredited institution, online doctoral students qualify for scholarships, federal loans, and other forms of financial aid. Contact the education program to learn more about financial aid, enrollment options, and start dates.

Maryville University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 7,651

Online Master's Programs: 15

Online Doctoral Programs: 5

Graduate Tuition Rate: $14,346

#5 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Missouri Baptist University

The Ed.D. in higher education leadership program at Missouri Baptist University appeals to learners seeking an online doctorate. With flexible enrollment options, the private school helps degree-seekers earn a doctorate. Doctoral students strengthen their research skills and present in academic conferences.

In the online higher education leadership program, learners complete doctoral coursework and strengthen advanced skills. Doctoral candidates move through the program by passing exams and researching a dissertation project. Graduates with a doctorate in higher education leadership work in academic, research, and industry positions.

Online doctoral students at the accredited institution qualify for several forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about transfer credit policies, research support, and admission requirements.

Missouri Baptist University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,826

Online Master's Programs: 10

Online Doctoral Programs: 1

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,197

#6 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Regent University

• Virginia Beach, VA

Regent University offers an online Ed.D. in higher education leadership and management program for doctoral students. At the private university, degree-seekers participate in virtual classroom activities to earn a doctorate. Doctoral students can access career advising and gain research skills.

The online higher education leadership program incorporates doctoral coursework. The program also requires passing scores on a comprehensive examination and the successful defense of an original dissertation project. With a doctorate in higher education leadership, graduates pursue academic, research, and industry roles.

At the accredited institution, online doctoral students qualify for scholarships, federal loans, and other forms of financial aid. Reach out to the higher education leadership program to learn more about admission requirements.

Regent University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 9,507

Online Master's Programs: 37

Online Doctoral Programs: 12

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $15,552

#7 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Saint Peter's University

• Jersey City, NJ

The Ed.D. in higher education program at Saint Peter's University offers an online option for doctoral students. The private university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible format. Doctoral students receive research support, library access, and career advising.

In the online higher education program, learners take advanced doctoral coursework. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research for an original dissertation or project. A higher education doctorate leads to job opportunities in research, academia, and leadership.

Doctoral students who attend the accredited institution in an online format qualify for several types of financial aid. Contact the education program for more information about research support and financial aid.

Saint Peter's University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,145

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $21,186

#8 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

University of Florida

• Gainesville, FL

The higher education Ed.D. program at the University of Florida offers a doctorate in a hybrid learning format. The public university provides flexible enrollment options to meet the needs of diverse degree-seekers. Doctoral students receive research support and participate in scholarly events.

In the online higher education program, learners complete doctoral coursework and strengthen advanced skills. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research for an original dissertation or project. With a doctorate in higher education, professionals work in academia, research, and leadership roles.

Online doctoral students can pay for their degree with scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about transfer credit policies, research support, and admission requirements.

University of Florida at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 24,310

Online Master's Programs: 42

Online Doctoral Programs: 7

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,770

#9 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

University of Memphis

• Memphis, TN

The Ed.D in higher and adult education program at the University of Memphis appeals to doctoral students seeking an online route to their degree. With its flexible format, the public university makes a doctorate more accessible. Doctoral students strengthen their research skills and present in academic conferences.

The online higher education program requires doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates complete a dissertation that contributes original research to the field. As the terminal degree in higher education, the Ed.D. often leads to career opportunities in academia, research, and industry.

The accredited institution meets federal requirements for financial aid support. Prospective applicants can contact the higher education program to learn more about research support, financial aid opportunities, and admission requirements.

University of Memphis at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 9,456

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,216

#10 Best Online Doctorate in Higher Education

University of Mississippi

• University, MS

The University of Mississippi offers an online Ed.D. in higher education program for doctoral students. With its flexible format, the public university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate. Doctoral students receive research support and participate in scholarly events.

During the online higher education program, learners complete advanced coursework. The program also requires passing scores on a comprehensive examination and the successful defense of an original dissertation project. Graduates with a higher education doctorate pursue roles in research, academia, and leadership.

The accredited institution meets federal requirements for financial aid support. Prospective applicants can contact the higher education program to learn more about the enrollment process and start dates.

University of Mississippi at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 8,245

Online Master's Programs: 9

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $8,718

Online Doctorate in Higher Education Programs Ranking Guidelines

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

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools  cannot buy better rankings  at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

• Affordability
• Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System  (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's  National Center for Education Statistics  (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the  College Navigator .

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from  AcademicInfluence.com , subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About our ranking factors.

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

• Collapse All

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%, online enrollment - 10%.

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through  contact page .

We thank you for your readership and trust.

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

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

Curriculum for an Online Doctorate in Higher Education

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

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

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

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

Accreditation for Online Doctorate in Higher Education Degrees

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

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

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

Employment Outlook for Doctorate in Higher Education Graduates

Doctorate in higher education careers, postsecondary education administrator.

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

Postsecondary Teacher

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

Instructional Coordinator

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

School and Career Counselor

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

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Doctorate in Higher Education Salary

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

Higher Education Professional Organizations

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

Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Higher Education

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

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

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Higher Education Leadership Ph.D. (Hybrid)

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

Online Ph.D. in higher education from CSU

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

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

Prepare to advance as an administrative leader

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

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

Join a program that fosters success

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

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

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

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

Gain real-world insight from scholar-practitioners

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

Health and Human Science Matters Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

July 17-21, 2023

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

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

Susana Muñoz

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

Sharon Anderson

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

Ryan P. Barone

Ryan P. Barone, 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 792A – Seminar - Research Methodology (1-18 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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By providing your information, you consent to receive calls, emails, and/or text messages from CSU Online. Consent not required to purchase goods or services. For more info, call 1-970-491-5288 . We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

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• e 2545 Research Blvd. Fort Collins, CO 80526
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Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration

Online educational leadership and policy studies ed.d. in higher education administration.

Pursuing the Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Ed.D. in higher education administration online at KU is a great way to enhance your career and earning potential. This degree is taught by full-time, nationally recognized faculty to help you apply the most recent scholarship and research skills to advance your career in colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations.

The KU School of Education and Human Sciences — recently ranked No. 7 in the nation on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Best Public Education Schools — sets you on a path of success through its student support, welcoming community, and professional development.

100% online

Applications are open

About KU’s online Ed.D. in higher education administration

• Curriculum and Admission Requirements
• Tuition and fees
• How to apply

What careers are possible with an online Ed.D. in higher education administration?

Specifically designed for pursuing a career in colleges and universities, the Ed.D. in higher education administration equips you with the most recent and relevant research skills and scholarship. This program prepares you for mid-level administrative positions in student affairs, student support services, and institutional research, to high-level positions, like university presidents, deans, and provosts.

Get in touch with us

• Kim Huggett
• Graduate Student Services Manager
• School of Education and Human Sciences
• 785-864-4510 || [email protected]

Ready to learn more?

Online ed.d. in higher education administration program snapshot, how flexible is online learning at ku.

KU’s online degree programs are designed with your busy schedule in mind and offer the flexibility to study wherever — and often whenever — is most convenient for you. Our online courses are taught by the same highly regarded faculty and expert instructors and consist of the same rigorous curriculum and instruction as our on-campus programs.

KU Resources

• KU course catalog
• KU grading and grades
• KU calendar
• KU refund policies

Why get an online Ed.D. in higher education administration from KU?

This program offers unmatched opportunities and flexibility. In an average of three years, depending on how long it takes to complete your dissertation, you could earn an online doctorate degree designed for working professionals who seek to advance their careers and develop specialized skills in the competitive higher education administration field. The coursework emphasizes real-world application, earning you practical experience that won’t just add to your resume, but strengthen it.

KU is a globally recognized institution and one of just 38 public universities in the AAU, a group of America’s leading research universities. An online Ed.D. in higher education administration from KU signals prestige, quality, and career readiness.

Let's talk

• 785.864.4510 || [email protected]

Take the next step

Program details, faq: online ed.d. in higher education administration.

The application deadline is March 1. 

Completed applications will be reviewed starting January 2024. All applicants are admitted for a summer semester start date.

Applicants are required to submit the following materials and meet the following requirements before the application deadline:

• "Yes" you are applying to a fully online program.
•  Academic Intention is "Degree-Seeking." 
• Academic Area of Interest is "Education."
• Academic Program is "Educational Leadership and Policy (EdD)."
• Academic Subplan is "Online Higher Education Administration (EdD)." 

Official academic transcripts.

Current resume or CV.

Statement of personal objectives.

One professional writing sample.

Contact information for three professional references.

Application fee.

English proficiency and translation of transcripts required if applicable.

For additional information regarding these requirements visit the Department of Educational Leadership and Policies Studies academic details page for the Ed.D in Higher Education Administration . 

Students typically complete this degree in three years, including summers, depending on the time necessary to complete a dissertation.

Yes, the online doctorate is offered fully remote.

This online doctorate degree is specifically designed with working professionals in mind. Coursework will have both synchronous (Tuesday or Wednesday evenings from 6–8 p.m. CST) and asynchronous (available at any time) elements that can be outlined by your program advisor.

Fully-online doctoral students in the School of Education and Human Sciences who have begun coursework and who will be enrolled in at least six credit hours per term for the following academic year are eligible to apply for a School of Education and Human Sciences scholarship. Students must complete the application process to be considered for a scholarship. Please visit the School of Education and Human Sciences scholarship webpage for more information. 

In addition to department based aid, online students have access to the same financial aid and scholarships as an on-campus students. Check out what support and scholarships you qualify for.

Learn more about this online program

Get more info on admission, deadlines, tuition and financial aid, career paths, and more when you fill out the form below. We’ll be in touch to answer any questions and help you get started.

Higher Education Administration EdD

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

Credit Hours:

Total Hours: 54

Cost per Credit Hour:

Calculate Your Tuition

Completion Time:

3 years (9 semesters) *pending hours enrolled

University Accreditation:

Special Requirements:

No GRE required

Learn more about this program:

Thank you for your interest in online at southern miss.

Ready to take the next step?

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey in higher education administration? Look no further than The University of Southern Mississippi’s Higher Education Administration EdD program. Going to college is a major part of life, and with this affordable, fully-online program, you can take your passion for education to the next level and make a lasting impact on future generations.

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

At The University of Southern Mississippi, we believe in empowering our students to become catalysts for change. With our higher education administration EdD, you’ll develop the expertise necessary to cultivate a college experience that goes beyond just education.

This program offers a capstone project rather than a dissertation, giving future deans, presidents, and directors the opportunity to tackle real-world issues. As a student of the higher ed program, you’ll learn from a vast array of subjects from the two-year college setting, higher ed leadership, legal issues, and social justice. If you’re looking to make a difference for an entire generation of students, this degree was made for you! 

Applicants are required to have earned a master’s degree in any field to be eligible for admission. However, it is highly recommended that applicants have at least three years of professional experience in higher education administration. Looking for more education-related degrees? Check out our other fully-online options ! Want more info about this degree ? Our enrollment coaches are standing by to assist you. Click here for more info! This is your life, plus college!

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

what can you do with a higher education administration master’s degree?

A Higher Education Administration Master’s Degree can help you develop the knowledge and skills to contribute to the effective functioning and continuous improvement of higher education institutions.

We are here to help! Our enrollment coaches are standing by to help you take the next step.

We’ll call you soon! In the meantime, learn more about us from our blog or start your application.

EdD Higher Education - 54 hours

Advisor Approved Electives (12 hours)

Additional Note

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

Admission Requirements

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

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

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

2. CV/Résumé.

3. Three Letters of Recommendation.

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

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Doctor of education (ed.d.), you are here, part-time program, world-class degree for leaders in higher education administration..

Aimed at preparing practitioner-scholars, the Ed.D. in Higher Education is designed for experienced professionals who wish to continue their careers as research-practitioners and institutional leaders. Individuals learn to use research to make a difference in the lives of students and institutions by focusing on pressing problems of practice. 

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

Students will gain a deeper understanding of how institutions of higher education operate while learning how to conduct rigorous academic research that they will be able to use as higher education leaders. 

Fall: 1-2 courses; Spring: 1-2 courses; Summer: 1-2 courses

Transfer courses accepted Up to 8 with faculty approval

Culminating experience Dissertation

Students attain a broad comprehension of higher education through completion of core doctoral classes that are designed to facilitate their understanding of research and completion of a dissertation. In addition to these courses, doctoral students draw on their professional work experience to develop the skills they will need to conduct high-quality primary research in higher education administration. The program emphasizes the practice of education and consultation in colleges and universities, governmental agencies, and foundations. 

Those students who are looking for an executive-style experience might be interested in  Penn GSE's Executive Doctorate in Higher Education Management Ed.D. program .

With the ability to take courses across the University of Pennsylvania, students in the Higher Education Ed.D. program can build a rigorous program of study that is specifically designed to meet their career goals. 

For more information on courses and requirements, visit the  Higher Education Ed.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 the program for information on selecting a faculty adviser.

Affiliated Faculty

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

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

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

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

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

“Penn GSE gave me the analytical tools to understand the newest research on college access and help craft practical ways to recruit and support a wide range of students."

Our Graduates

Higher Education Ed.D. graduates accept academic and leadership positions at universities, and as leaders at government and nonprofit institutions. 

Alumni Careers

• Athletics Director, Johns Hopkins University
• Assistant Dean for Admissions & Academic Affairs, University of Pennsylvania
• Assistant Dean for College Programming and Student Services, The University of Chicago
• Assistant Professor, Salem State University
• Associate Vice President, Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Cal State Monterey Bay
• Chief Student Affairs Officer, Amherst College
• Chief of Staff, University of Wisconsin
• Director of Strategic Initiatives, University of Pennsylvania
• Director of Institutional Assessment and Quality Improvement, Rutgers University
• Vice President, Rochester Institute of Technology

Admissions & Financial Aid

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

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

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

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

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

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

Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

Related News & Research

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Jobs for the Future leader discusses education–workforce pathways with Penn GSE community

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 Ph.D.
• Higher Education M.S.Ed.

Related Topics

• OU Homepage
• The University of Oklahoma

Online Ed.D. in Education Administration | OU Online

Online Doctor of Education in Education Administration

Become a changemaker for education., make informed decisions in complex settings.

The OU Online Doctor of Education in Education Administration is a 100% online, 54-credit-hour program that takes 36 months to complete. Led by renowned educational leaders and scholars from OU’s Jeanine Rainbolt College of Education, the program emphasizes relationship-building in a cohort model through community groups, networking events, and collaborative projects. The program, accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), culminates with a problem of practice dissertation completed during coursework in the program's third year.

*The summer and fall cohorts for this program are currently at capacity. 

Choose from the following concentrations:

Pk-12 educational leadership.

Learn cutting-edge research and leadership skills to help advance your career in PK-12 school district-level education, including assistant, associate, and superintendent positions and human resources administration.

Higher Education Leadership

Apply current scholarship and research skills to advance your career in colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations. You’ll be prepared for positions in student affairs, student support services, institutional research, and higher-level positions like dean or provost.

Request Information

Admission deadline.

Rolling admissions (applications due 14 days before the intended start date).

Program Start Terms

Fall, Summer

Academic Calendar

Stay up to date with OU holiday closings, deadlines, and more.

View Calendar

Benefits of the Education  Administration Doctoral Degree

Meet today’s growing demand.

As today’s educational landscape grows increasingly complex, there is a growing need for quality leaders who can meet these new challenges. Become equipped with the advanced knowledge and skills others lack and become an educational change agent in your organization.

Strong Career Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of postsecondary administrators is projected to grow 4 percent by 2032. An estimated 15,300 job openings are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of these openings will result in the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire.

Flexible Format

Learn in a flexible, online program designed for working professionals. You’ll engage in discussion with professors and fellow students with opportunities to work together and collaborate.

OU Online graduates find employment within six months after graduation

OU Online graduates report earning an annual salary of $75,000 or more

OU Online students say the skills they gained in their program made them more competitive in their career field

Pursue Your  Education  Administration Doctoral Degree

Take the next step in your career with a degree from the University of Oklahoma. Applications are reviewed year-round for fall, spring, and summer sessions. Choose your program, choose your start, and apply today.

Program Breakdown

OU Online’s Doctor of Education in Education Administration program is structured to prepare students for job advancement and leadership by cultivating a deeper understanding of challenges in today’s educational settings. Students will learn how to lead change in their careers and gain the tools necessary to make positive and lasting changes in the organizations and educational settings in which they interact.

The program hosts monthly coffee chats each Friday where students can network with faculty and industry leaders. After completing year two, students will have the option to attend an immersion experience on campus.

This program offers two concentrations – PK-12 Educational Leadership or Higher Education Leadership. Students can begin their curriculum in summer or fall terms. Courses will contain both asynchronous and synchronous components. Synchronous sessions are optional and will be recorded for playback.

PK-12 Educational Leadership Concentration

• Applied Quantitative
• Theoretical Paradigms in Education
• Visionary Leadership
• Qualitative Inquiry for Practitioners
• Program Evaluation
• Instructional Leadership in Educational Administration
• Dissertation Development & Advisory
• Educational & Community Relations
• Strategic & Financial Planning in Education
• Special Education Law
• Prospectus Development
• Advanced Inquiry
• Readings for Prospectus
• Policy Planning and Development

Higher Education Leadership Concentration

• Administration of Adult & Higher Ed
• Educational Technology Leadership
• Critical Literature in Adult & Higher Ed
• Diversity Issues in Higher Ed

How to Apply

Admissions to the online Doctor of Education in Education Administration are selective. To be considered, you must have a conferred master’s degree from an accredited institution.

To apply, students must:

• Complete the online application at  https://gograd.ou.edu/apply/
• Submit a current resume
• Provide official college transcripts from all institutions for both undergraduate and graduate degrees
• Background on the setting (e.g., school district, higher education institution, or non-profit organization)
• Description of the problem of the practice
• Importance of your problem of practice
• It is understood that the dissertation topic/interests may change, so you are not locked into this proposal if you are accepted into the program.  
• International students must demonstrate English proficiency.

The admissions committee operates under a rolling admissions process, and admissions may continue until two weeks before classes start. The program strives to respond to applicants within one week of submitting a completed application.

For more information about the admissions process, please complete the contact form below, and an admissions counselor will be in touch shortly.

If you would like to compare the estimated cost of your program with a typical financial aid package, use the  cost calculator  on our OU Online financial aid page. 

Graduate tuition waivers cannot be applied to OU Online programs. OU Online programs qualify for the OU Faculty/Staff Tuition Waiver & Fee Exemption, and we encourage you to check your eligibility.  

Tuition waiver and fee exemption package application

If you have questions regarding financial aid for your online program, please get in touch with the Online Aid office by emailing  [email protected]  or calling 405-325-2929.

Same Academic Excellence

Like every OU Online program, the Ed.D. in Education Administration is built on the foundation of world-class University of Oklahoma faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

An Investment in Your Future

Earning a Doctor of Education in Education Administration from OU Online gives you the advanced knowledge necessary to make informed and effective decisions in complex educational settings. You’ll learn to develop and implement strategic plans that drive positive change and innovation in educational organizations, gaining an expanded professional network as part of the global OU alumni community.

Tuition and fees for the program are $29,700 ($550 per credit hour). Books and additional materials are not included.

Tuition Calculator

Our tuition calculator can help you estimate your tuition and financial aid for your program of interest.

ESTIMATE COSTS

Why OU Online?

We are a top-tier public institution offering high-quality, affordable, professional undergraduate and graduate programs committed to maintaining academic excellence online.

Our Online Programs

Every OU Online program is built on the foundation of world-class faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

Our OU Family

When you graduate from an OU Online program, you’ll join the network of 250,000 OU alumni and be forever part of the OU family. Become part of the tradition of excellence that OU has established in its 130-year history.

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LET US HELP

Welcome to Capella

Select your program and we'll help guide you through important information as you prepare for the application process.

FIND YOUR PROGRAM

Connect with us

A team of dedicated enrollment counselors is standing by, ready to answer your questions and help you get started.

• PhD in Education
• Leadership for Higher Education

Leadership for Higher Education Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Prepare to lead postsecondary education organizations with an online PhD in Education, Leadership for Higher Education from Capella University. This program combines recognized theory and best practices with practical application to help you meet the challenges of higher education.

Your coursework and doctoral studies will help you develop the research, problem-solving, and leadership skills to guide traditional and distance education programs—and help tomorrow’s students succeed.

Virtual Residency Courses

Make progress toward your dissertation with virtual residencies and credit-bearing doctoral project development seminars blended into your coursework.

Extensive doctoral support

Experts will support you throughout your degree to help you meet doctoral challenges and reach your short- and long-term goal.

Professionally aligned curriculum

Every assignment, course, and program is designed to deliver the knowledge and expertise required for success in the field of education.

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

• Online & in-person
• 6 Core courses
• 8 Specialization courses
• 3 Elective courses
• 3 Virtual Residencies

Comprehensive exam

Dissertation

Reduce your tuition by $5,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $5K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

Courses and skills

Explore leadership for higher education courses.

• This program requires a total of 92 quarter credits
• You’ll need to complete six core courses, eight specialization courses, three elective courses, three virtual residencies, one comprehensive exam and one dissertation

View all courses

What you'll learn

The PhD in Education, Leadership for Higher Education program integrates current, recognized theory and best practices with practical application. Focus on developing the research and problem-solving skills needed to guide traditional and distance education programs.

On successful completion of this degree program, you should be able to:

• Communicate effectively
• Integrate technology effectively
• Lead and manage change in higher education organizations
• Develop and manage resources of higher education organizations
• Develop and demonstrate personal leadership skills
• Conduct relevant research
• Value and promote diversity, equity and globalization for academic excellence

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career opportunities.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the phd in education cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A more structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

• Based on the quarter system; 1–2 courses per 10-week quarter
• 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
• Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
• Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$765  per credit, 77  coursework credits, 16  max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$765 Per quarter credit

77 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

$2,295 Per quarter

Per quarter

Resource kit fee

$175 Per quarter

Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$0 no application fee

no application fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

• The program specialization you choose
• Scholarships and finances
• Prior coursework

Transfer credits

• Employer and/or military benefits
• Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
• Complexity of your dissertation
• Academic performance
• School/work/life balance
• Unexpected life events

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost scenarios

*Eligibility rules apply. Connect with us for details.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

Get the credits you deserve. You may be able to save time and money on your Capella degree by transferring credits from an accredited university.  Get Started

$5K toward your doctorate

Apply for a $5K scholarship Capella Progress Reward , a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

Employer & association discounts

If your employer or organization is a Capella network partner, you may be eligible for a discount. Ask your employer what offers are available.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

How to apply

What are the phd in education admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

• A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
• Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

Professional doctorate faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These experts will set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree program and answer all your questions about Capella.

Doctoral advisors

Doctoral programs are specific and challenging. That’s why you’ll have access to expert support at every step along the road to your degree.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

Doctoral Guide

Wondering about the differences between PhDs and professional doctorates? What are the unique features of online and traditional doctoral programs? Read on to learn more and find the right program for you.

The Difference Between an EdD and PhD in Ed

Choosing to pursue a PhD or EdD depends on your career goals and whether applied or original research most interests you.

Doctoral Journey

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.

Career exploration

What can you do with a phd in education degree.

Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PhD in Education, Leadership for Higher Education.

Related job titles to explore*

• Vice president for academic affairs
• Full-time faculty of education courses
• Vice president for student affairs
• Director of alumni relations
• Director of academic advising
• Director of student retention
• Dean of diversity affairs
• Dean of student affairs
• Dean of external relations
• Director of institutional research

Employment settings to explore

• Land-based or online college or university
• Community college
• Adult education organization
• Military education
• Higher education research and policy organization
• For-profit institution
• Continuing education program
• Technical college

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

Take the first step toward earning your degree and achieving your goals. {page-tel}

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Years To Complete

Refine your leadership skills with a specialized ed.d. higher education degree.

Leading in the higher education space is inherently rewarding. It’s also undeniably competitive and rapidly changing. These influences, combined with rising tuition costs and lower completion rates, make it more than challenging for traditional leaders to fully support the intellectual development of the next generation of students. What’s needed are innovative leaders with fresh perspectives who can navigate these cultural and economic shifts with confidence. With Franklin’s Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with a focus on Higher Education Leadership (Ed.D.-Higher Education Leadership), you’ll develop contemporary leadership capabilities while gaining practical insight from mentors who are already successfully tackling the issues in the real world.

Program Availability

Practical Focus

Put theory into practice to inspire change.

Data-Informed Success

Leverage research findings to improve systems and organizations.

No-Fear Dissertation™

Get 360-degree support to take on (and finish!) your dissertation.

3-Year Completion

Finish your doctorate faster -- including one year for your dissertation.

Amplify Prior Learning

Transfer up to 24 hours of previously earned credit.

Program Overview

Become the best kind of higher education leader — your own.

When it comes to higher education, it’s just as important to make your mark as it is to make an impact. With Franklin’s Ed.D.-Higher Education Leadership, you’ll develop your leadership skills and style as you explore the roles and responsibilities of leaders in community colleges, private colleges and four-year public colleges and universities. You’ll also dig into the history and major theories of higher education administration and leadership, gaining a better understanding of its evolution. Plus, you’ll explore current issues, such as access, accountability, diversity, inclusion, and government policy, and learn how to develop an informed approach to addressing these and other issues.

Learn how to develop innovative leadership strategies for unprecedented times

With higher education facing an increasingly uncertain future, leading and inspiring change is becoming essential. Franklin’s Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership prepares you to emerge as a strong, empowered leader, ready to tackle challenges and overcome obstacles – despite disruption and discontinuous change. Franklin’s higher education doctorate will build your capacity for data-informed leadership practice. If you’re seeking a role in higher education leadership or higher education administration within the context of teaching or service, this is the Ed.D.-Higher Education Leadership program for you.

Learn and practice real-world skills under the guidance of future-forward higher education leaders

With the Ed.D.-Higher Education leadership doctoral program, you’ll not only learn about fundamental leadership theories, you’ll put theory into practice. With Franklin’s online doctoral programs in higher education, you’ll be under the mentorship of real-world higher education leaders. That means you’ll be given unique opportunities to develop and hone your leadership skills under the guidance of experienced professionals. You’ll contextualize your own higher education leadership development within the broader scope of leadership theory and practice, preparing you to lead and strategize through actual situations within college and university settings.

You’ll also enjoy a cohesive and robust graduate culture and cohort. Together, our practice-minded faculty and your fellow students will support, mentor, encourage and keep you accountable to the program – and to yourself. At Franklin, you’re never alone on your doctoral journey.

Expand your leadership approach

As an Ed.D.-Higher Education Leadership student at Franklin, you’ll participate in core research and elective courses with doctoral students in business administration, healthcare administration and instructional design leadership. This interdisciplinary collaboration will deepen your insights and inform your thinking so you’ll be prepared to move forward with credibility and purpose. You’ll also benefit from interacting with a diverse group of professionals whose perspectives are rooted in disciplines other than your own, ensuring your preparedness to lead and serve varied populations, organizations and communities.  

Dr. Gina J.

Ed.d higher education leadership '23.

"What I loved most about my Franklin experience was the welcoming atmosphere, supportive instructors, and a curriculum that challenges students and fosters learning. My Ed.D. degree has equipped me with the tools to lead individuals and organizations and teach in the university setting. I value my educational journey at Franklin University, cherish the connections gained, and take pride in being the change I desire to see in students, leaders, and organizations."

Future Start Dates

Start dates for individual programs may vary and are subject to change. Please  request free information  & speak with an admission advisor for the latest program start dates.

If there’s such a thing as a no-fear dissertation process, Franklin has it. We’ve intentionally designed a dissertation structure to help you complete your dissertation step-by-step, beginning with your enrollment in the program. We’ve also built in faculty mentoring and guidance, and peer-to-peer support so you’re never left to “figure it out” on your own.

Throughout the Ed.D.-Higher Education leadership program, you’ll develop important research skills and the necessary writing prowess to complete and publish a dissertation in practice (DiP) as the culmination of your studies. Your DiP will showcase your ability to solve a challenge within the workplace using action research. As a part of the (DiP), you will test your hypotheses in the real world, or based on your findings, document a process to implement your solution. 

Your Best Value Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.)

Choose Franklin's Ed.D. and get an applied doctorate that fits your budget and your ambition.

Finish Formula

2 years of coursework + 1 year for the dissertation.

Transfer MORE Credits, Pay LESS tuition*

Partner pay less..

Search below to see if you could save tuition through an employer or professional organization partnership.

Highly Recommended

98% of graduating students would recommend Franklin to their family, friends and/or colleagues.

Source: Franklin University, Office of Career Development Student Satisfaction Survey (Summer 2023)

Curriculum & Course Descriptions

The doctoral colloquium is designed to build a community and ensure that learners have the support, motivation, and guidance necessary to succeed in their doctoral programs. This first colloquium also will provide students with an overview of the doctoral program expectations, coursework sequence, doctoral student support services, as well as comprehensive exam and dissertation requirements. The first colloquium is designed to establish a learning community and graduate culture for the doctoral students at Franklin University. The doctoral colloquium will be held at the University's main campus in facilities that provide appropriate online interaction for out-of-state and international students.

In this course, students prepare to be active participants in advanced professional and academic discourse communities by practicing the writing and research strategies associated with their chosen field of study. By calling attention to the conventions of research writing, the course provides students the analytical tools that will help them join ongoing scholarly conversations. Students will analyze and compose a variety of academic writing genres as they develop a literature review over the course of the term. They will also develop their presentation, peer review, proofing, and reflection skills in alignment with the standards of advanced academic study.

Through this course, students will gain an overview of quantitative research designs and methods. The course starts with successful completion of the CITI training - the protection of human research participants, to move on to an introduction of quantitative sampling designs, data collection approaches, experimental versus non-experimental designs, and data analysis. Students will engage in practical hands-on experience with formulating a research question or hypotheses, discussing important ethical issues, designing sampling methods, collecting data, and analyzing data. They will learn how to examine validity and reliability issues and will be introduced to available software for conducting quantitative design. At the end of this course, students will be introduced to the research proposal to get a start on the guidelines required for their dissertation proposal.

Through this course, students will gain an overview of qualitative research designs and methods. The course starts with an introduction to qualitative approaches. Students will become familiar with the narrative approach, phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, and case studies. This course will introduce students to some of the critical works in qualitative research methods and design and give an overview of the historical progression of the field. Students will gain hands-on experience with observations, qualitative data collection, and qualitative sampling design. They will also get some introduction in qualitative data analysis, validity, reliability, and researchers' bias in qualitative work. At the end of this course, students will be introduced to the research proposal to get a start on the guidelines required for their dissertation proposal.

This course will introduce the concepts of descriptive statistics and probability distributions. Topics will include basic statistical terminology, statistical graphs, numerical summaries of data, probability concepts and distributions, and sampling distributions. The course is designed to allow students integrate statistical software of choice with the aforementioned concepts and to provide opportunities to interpret resulting outputs.

Applications of statistical techniques and methods will be explored, including fundamental statistical tests for central values, variances, and categorical variables, as well as regression analysis and the general linear model. The emphasis will be on selecting and applying the appropriate statistical techniques as well as the interpretation and reporting of results with the use of a major statistical software. The course is also designed to provide numerous opportunities to critique statistical techniques commonly used in empirical research articles.

This is an advanced course in statistics that covers analyses used in multivariate statistical techniques. The course is designed to broaden and deepen learners understanding of advanced statistics in multivariate techniques. As such, several multivariate techniques are covered, including their appropriateness to given situations, analysis, and interpretation. The emphasis of the course is on practical application of concepts learnt to given research problems and/or opportunities. The course is developed to balance theory and application and provides numerous opportunities for application to practical problems. Learners also complete a draft research proposal integrating sound research plans and procedures.

The advanced qualitative research course builds on the knowledge and skills students acquire in prior research courses. This course leads students to an in-depth treatment of qualitative research methodology, exploring its theoretical underpinnings and associated methods for design, data collection, interpretation, and reporting of results. Ethics are emphasized for each stage of research. This course will guide students to develop the methodology and data analysis for their dissertation proposal and research.

Through this course, students will familiarize with mixed-methods research and design. They will gain knowledge on the four different types of mixed-methods: triangulation design, embedded design, explanatory design, and exploratory design. Students will learn how to conceptualize their own study in terms of these different design types. They will gain hands-on experience on how to formulate a research question fitted for a mixed-methods design, collect some data, and analyze it. They will discuss and learn about challenges and advantages of mixed-methods designs. At the end of this course students will be able to work on their dissertation proposal.

This is a hands-on course designed to equip students with skills and knowledge necessary to develop new, valid and reliable instruments as well as help improve existing ones. In particular, the course looks at evolution of measurement development and the process involved in developing reliable and valid measurement instruments. The course includes creation of a reliable and valid measurement that can be readily used and applied in the field.

This course is designed to equip students with essential skills in qualitative coding, analysis, interpretation of findings, and writing of the qualitative results. These skills are crucial for the doctoral candidacy journey. The course aims to provide students with hands-on experience in collecting text data from original qualitative research studies, as well as mapping, memoing, coding, analyzing, interpreting, and writing qualitative research. By the end of the course, students will have produced a small meta-synthesis, allowing them to put their newly acquired skills into practice.

In this course, students will be introduced to the main schools of critical and social theory: structuralism, post-structuralism, cultural theory, queer theory, gender theory, critical race theory, disability studies, and post-colonialism among others. Students will analyze foundational theoretical scholarship, examine how critical and social theory has developed over time, and consider the ways in which theory might inform their own research. Throughout the course, students will complete short papers as well as a major writing assignment at the end of the term.

The aim of this course is for you to learn about and be able to apply key research design frameworks in quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches. In particular, you will learn conditions under which each design and/or approach would be most appropriate and effective. Additionally, you will learn how to formulate research questions, critically evaluate various research designs in order to select a suitable one for a given research problem, develop appropriate data collection and analysis procedures and plans as well as ethical conduct of research studies. During the course, you will learn to craft a research proposal integrating critical components, namely background of study, purpose statement, research question, theoretical framework, significance of the study, critical review and synthesis of key literature underpinning the study, appropriate research design, and data collection and analysis procedures.

This course focuses on research and evaluation of the key theoretical concepts and practices central to the leading of organizational change initiatives. Students will evaluate real-world situations, cases, and scenarios in order to recommend and justify theoretically based change management practices to ensure ongoing organizational acceptance and effectiveness of these programs. Students will conduct scholarly research to explore, evaluate, and interpret state-of-the-art change concepts for viability in today?s organizations. Students will assess the role of change agents as key players in the overall change process.

This core course focuses on leadership and followership skills and attributes through the lens of traditional and 21st century leadership theories, constructs, and concepts as applied to institutions. Students will apply transformational and other state-of-the-art leadership theoretical underpinnings to real-world cases, scenarios, and situations that involve optimal practices in leading individuals and organizations through leadership challenges. The course concentrates on the application of critical thinking to optimal practices in leading institutions, their stakeholders and culture for optimal effectiveness.

The course will study the teaching and learning philosophies, methods, and techniques in higher education. Topics will cover learning theories, instructional design models, instructional strategies, and evaluation of student performance. By the end of this course, students will develop their own teaching philosophy along with an instructional unit demonstrating their mastery of learning theories and instructional design models, selection of proper learning technologies in designing the instruction, and incorporation of appropriate instructional and assessment methods. In addition, students will also explore faculty careers in higher education.

This core course focuses on state-of-the-art leadership skills necessary for the effectiveness of today's leaders and managers. The course concentrates on the specific transformational, servant-leadership, and other leadership competencies and skills necessary for providing sound management of institutional resources, projects, and performance. Students will apply leadership theoretical underpinnings to real-world cases, scenarios and situations that involve effective and ineffective resource and performance management practices. The course concentrates on the application of critical thinking and decision-making in optimal practices for providing highly effective leadership in today's organizations.

Organizational Leadership:

This course addresses historical and current leadership concepts, theories, and constructs. An emphasis will be on the application and assessment of transformational, servant, and authentic leadership theories for use by both leaders and followers in 21st century business and academic settings. The course will challenge you to assess your own leadership strengths and weaknesses and produce an in-depth plan of action to develop and refine leadership competencies. You will conduct substantive scholarly research to address and capture relevant and cutting-edge leadership theoretical work for application in course assignments.

This course is an advanced research seminar in the field of organizational culture and behavior. The seminar allows you to begin the process of substantive academic research and formal inquiry into these important theories and the implications of these for managers. The seminar will require the synthesis of critical thinking, analysis, research, writing, and evaluation. Students will develop a key deliverable that involves a research proposal in the fields of organizational culture and behavior and then conduct substantive research into the literature developed by others. The final project in the seminar is the development of a research-ready proposal utilizing, at minimum, one research methodology.

PK-12 Educational Leadership:

This course is key for students who have chosen the PK-12 educational leadership concentration that require a solid understanding of 21st century technological skills as it applies to educational technology (including social media). After establishing a foundation and knowledge base of educational technology, you will learn about the most recent and innovative educational technology that can be utilized effectively for both learning and leading in the PK-12 educational setting. Through the lens of ensuring all students in the PK-12 educational setting are college-, career-, and life-ready, you will analyze and learn how educational technology plays a vital role in this process. In addition, you will analyze and evaluate how to utilize the most recent educational technology tools with effective building and district leadership in the PK-12 educational setting. Finally, you will analyze and evaluate current trends and issues associated with use of educational technology (including social media) within the PK-12 educational setting.

This course is key for students who have chosen the PK-12 Educational Leadership focus and must develop expertise and practice in navigating the unique aspects of building and district leadership in K-12 structures. Concepts of transformational leadership developed through the Leadership Core will be leveraged in the examination of school level and district level issues. Students will be required to define problems within their unique professional situation and apply recognized leadership structures to promote a shared vision, and establish a professional learning community that focuses on the mission of ensuring that all students learn through the development of a culture of collaboration rooted in data-based results.

Higher Education Leadership:

This course provides an examination of leadership theories and structures in institutions of higher education. Focusing on major theories of leadership of higher education organizations that inform leadership practices, students will develop skills as practitioners in university leadership. By the end of the course, students will be able to understand the structure and function of university leadership structures from multiple theoretical perspectives. Students will gain an understanding of the management, leadership, and administrative roles of academic and student affairs offices in colleges and universities including personnel, program definition, research and teaching issues, and other functions of academic and programming oversight. Additional consideration to the roles, responsibilities, and leadership styles required will be examined for different organizational contexts. Through the linking of theory to practice, the class activities will lead students to develop skills as campus leaders and to empower them to make conscious, deliberate decisions, utilizing multiple, and at times divergent, theoretical frames.

The purpose of this course is to explore critical, challenges facing American higher education. The course explores the history of higher education, with an emphasis on the development of higher education in the United States, to present challenges facing institutions. It includes issues of access, accountability, academic freedom, financial aid, state and federal government policy, changing legal structures, teaching and learning in a digital age, student issues, diversity, and the influence of business models and values on institutional strategy and practice. This course also covers different educational systems (community colleges, private colleges, and public colleges) and the critical issues affecting their institutional type. Students will gain an understanding of their responsibilities, critical thinking, and explore current issues that affect managers in institutions of higher education. This course addresses interdisciplinary influences on leadership practice within learning organizations and focuses on recent developments that have broad implications for research and practice in educational leadership.

8 credits from levels 800-899 in the following subjects: ACCT, EDUC, HIM, HCM, HRM, IDL, MGMT, MKTG, MTHD, PUAD, ITEC.

This course is designed for students to prepare for, take and complete their comprehensive exam. Remedial strategies and actions will also be provided for students who do not successfully pass their comprehensive exam on the first attempt, with the opportunity for a retake during the six weeks of the course if the student chooses to do so. A third attempt on taking the Doctoral Comprehensive Examination will not be automatically provided to doctoral students failing to successfully pass the examination after two attempts. Any third attempt will only be considered upon receiving a written petition by the student requesting a final attempt. The request may or may not be approved based on review by the Dean of Doctoral Studies and the student's doctoral Program Chair. Students who fail the comprehensive examination two times, or fail the examination three times when a third attempt was granted through appeal, are dismissed from doctoral studies at Franklin University.

At least 6 credits from the following courses:

In consultation with the Dissertation Chair and Committee Members, the doctoral candidate will design and conduct research to complete the aims identified in their research prospectus, proposal and IRB application or as subsequently modified in line with recommendations from the Chair and Committee Members. This course may be repeated as necessary to earn sufficient credit or to finalize the Dissertation to fulfill requirements to earn the doctorate.

Doctoral candidates will finalize all aspects of the Dissertation/Dissertation in Practice and make an oral defense of their design, methods and findings.

Students may complete 8 credit hours of a focus area to count within the Major Elective requirement. Only one declared focus area will print on the diploma.

At least 8 credits from the following courses:

Health Informatics Focus

In this course students will evaluate an organizations current health information governance infra-structure and will make recommendations for improvement that will cover the broad spectrum of strategic issues in healthcare including policies, guidelines, standards, processes and controls required to manage and implement enterprise-level information. Students will research how health data and organizational information systems are utilized as a strategic asset to healthcare organizations, process to manage various risks to the quality of information and ensure its appropriate use.

In this course students will evaluate an organizations existing clinical workflows to include a variety of inpatient, outpatient and emergency healthcare environments. Material in the course covers the documentation, review, mapping and diagramming of clinical workflow information and processes. Students will also assess and make recommendations for improvement of patient care to workflow mapping and change management, as part of evidence based decision making in healthcare.

In this course, students will evaluate an organization’s existing process of retrieving, analyzing and reporting intelligence to make healthcare decisions. Student will assess and make recommendations for improvement on the techniques of extracting, transforming, and loading data from a myriad of operational databases into corporate data warehouses, as well a means to ensure that decision making is based on clean and reliable information. Students will also develop skills for reporting the healthcare intelligence gathered.

Healthcare Management Focus

This science of epidemiology is essential for projecting the population health needs, and appropriate allocation of public and private resources. This course focuses on the utilization of epidemiologic studies and techniques as a basis for organizational policy and administrative decision-making. Students will examine the connection between organizational leadership and social health. Students will create and recommend organizational strategies that enhance organizational, community, and global health.

This course will explore various aspects of corporate, state and federal policy making. Students will examine the impact of existing health policies on healthcare organizations, providers and patients. Students will develop skills to influence and change existing healthcare policies. Students will also create and propose a new healthcare policy.

This course will examine the importance of resource and financial management in a healthcare organization. Students will determine the financial status of a healthcare organization and create strategic plans to sustain healthcare services. This course will also explore the various concepts driving healthcare economics. This course will also critique the use of organizational supplies, human resources, and technology.

This course will examine various aspects of patient safety, quality improvement and risk management in healthcare. Students will compare and contrast several process improvement models with the goal of improving organizational efficiency, patient safety, and service quality. Students will also research governmental agencies driving quality improvement in healthcare organizations.

Healthcare Leaders, more than ever, are facing challenging opportunities with the changing dynamics of the industry. During this course students will explore how executive-level leaders can manage complex health systems using strategic planning, risk management and innovative business practices.

The science of epidemiology and population health concepts are essential for addressing and projecting the health needs of communities and the allocation of public and private resources. This course focuses on the utilization of epidemiologic findings and population health data to support and aid health care policy development and administrative decision making. Students will be able to apply these concepts to analyze public health and population health data for epidemics, chronic health conditions, or diseases to develop data supported strategies as healthcare administrators.

Instructional Design Leadership Focus

Leaders of instruction and learning must stay abreast of continual changes in trends and technology and leverage them to ensure the competitiveness and health of their organization. However, not all technologies and emerging processes are worth adopting. In this course, students will examine pedagogical trends and emerging technologies. Students will learn how to evaluate theories and incorporate designs, processes, and technologies in strategic and tactical decisions for instruction and learning in the organization.

In this course, students will be exposed to new and innovative approaches for designing effective learning and instruction. This course will equip students with knowledge of applicable frameworks and strategies for implementation at the organizational level. Students will review learning environments such as e-learning, blended and hybrid learning, mobile learning, game-based learning, and informal and social learning, to determine the appropriate learning environment based on the learning and training needs of an organization.

Today's researchers, leaders, and managers in the instructional design field must be able to use data to make decisions, as well as influence others in their organizations. In this course, students will learn how to apply relevant tools, techniques, theories, and principles of strategic assessment and decision-making to address the learning and performance needs for continuous improvement for learning problems or a learning organization.

Learning and knowledge management is crucial to the success of organizations. In this course, students will go beyond the design of learning environments and acquire skills to lead and manage the learning organization at a strategic level. Students will be able to recognize and meet the evolving learning needs of an organization within the framework of the organization's strategic goals. Multicultural awareness and how to lead multi-functional and cross-cultural instructional design teams and projects will also be addressed in this course.

Instructional design leaders often work in a consulting role with both internal and external clients and stakeholders. In this course, students will gain consulting skills in instructional design. Major topics of the course include: applying doctoral-level research strategies to analyze and evaluate learning and performance problems; communicating effectively with stakeholders; applying consulting strategies and skills; and creating a consulting professional development plan.

Management Focus

The primary objective of this course is to provide a substantive overview of the development of management theory and its applications through the 20th century to date. Managerial concepts and constructs will be researched and applied in a scholar to practitioner modality. The course will focus on the evolution of management thought and the implications of its development for modern managers and leaders.

This course focuses on the theory and practice of organizations as open and adaptive systems. Students will address the implications of systems theory for organizational sense-making, learning, innovation and transformation. The complexity of organizations as integrated participants in while systems will be addressed through research and presentations.

Innovation enables organizational growth and sustainability. However, for companies to remain competitive, leaders must understand the theories, models, and strategies framing innovation applying relevant concepts and practice to business development, customer satisfaction, and market acquisition. Conceptually, innovation, defined and applied in organizations, has morphed over the last three decades. However, the 21st-century global business environment offers an opportunity to rethink, even reimage innovation and its application to the emerging digital defined markets and workplaces. While innovation is evolutionally, even revolutionary relative to an organization's purpose, product, and processes, leadership should explore contemporary knowledge and skills associated with innovation determining if cultivating cultures of innovation, is essential to achieving organizational goals.

This course addresses a multi-prong approach to manage, lead, and assess overall organizational performance in achieving tactical and strategic goals. Metrics including: shareholder value, the balanced scorecard, risk management, system alignment, human resource management, and organizational learning are addressed in this course. Also the application of research on organizational performance theories are incorporated in the course.

This course focuses on the evaluation and analysis of key ethical decision-making theories and constructs, and their direct application and integration in 21st century organizational practices. The role of corporate social responsibility will be explored by assessing the role of organizational leaders and stakeholders with improving the quality of life for individuals and the community.

This course focuses on research and evaluation of the key theoretical concepts and practices central to the leading of organizational change initiatives. Students will evaluate real-world situations, cases, and scenarios in order to recommend and justify theoretically based change management practices to ensure ongoing organizational acceptance and effectiveness of these programs. Students will conduct scholarly research to explore, evaluate, and interpret state-of-the-art change concepts for viability in today’s organizations. Students will assess the role of change agents as key players in the overall change process.

Marketing Focus

This course is an advanced research seminar in contemporary marketing management. The seminar relies on critical inquiry and analysis as the foundation for substantive academic research involving current marketing issues that shape and are shaped by society. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have completed a comprehensive research study proposal.

This course is an advanced seminar in consumer behavior and market-driven applied research. Readings and assignments will synthesize prior knowledge of consumer behavior, research methodologies, methods, and theories with critical analyses of how these are used to inform marketing decision-making. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have developed a plan to conduct and analyze a research study.

This course is an advanced seminar in the use of quantitative and qualitative data in the marketing process. Upon successful completion of this seminar, students will have an understanding of how quantitative and qualitative analyses are used by marketing academicians and practitioners for academic and applied research, assessment, and decision making.

Methodology Focus

Public Administration Focus

This course focuses on theories and practices for leading cross-sector collaborations to accomplish public policy goals and objectives of mission-driven organizations. Students evaluate different collaborative approaches for delivering government and nonprofit services and assess the risks and benefits of engaging in cross-sector collaborations. Students learn analytical approaches, principled negotiation skills, and best practices for initiating and managing effective cross-sector collaborations.

The course examines the latest technologies that can be used to improve service delivery, engage stakeholders, and solve problems. Students learn the technologies and best practices for using web-based applications, e-commerce solutions, geographic information systems, crowd-sourcing, social media and other e-tools to make government and nonprofit organizations more efficient and effective. Ethical, legal, and implementation, aspects of these approaches are assessed.

This course examines concepts, tools, and techniques for evaluating government policies, philanthropic, and social programs to assess the performance of mission-driven organizations. The course focuses on evaluating different approaches to program evaluation and applying methods for performance evaluation, including needs assessments, logic models, evaluation designs, quantitative and qualitative evaluation techniques, ethics, and reporting.

Human Resource Management Focus

Organizations across the globe are composed of groups of people working together to achieve goals that include organizational success, employee growth and contribution, and contribution to the larger community. The defining factor that differentiates the most successful companies from those that struggle to survive is the people who make up the employee base. While the Human Resources function has the specific task of planning for and resolving many employee issues and needs, individual managers and employees have direct responsibility and accountably for achieving sustained organizational success. Organizations that invest in their employees and develop workplace environments that encourage full employee engagement are rewarded with a competitive advantage in the marketplace. This course provides students with an opportunity to learn the knowledge and skills needed to enhance the contributions of all employees in support of an organization's purpose. Student's research will analyze trends and issues influencing the development and application of these elements within contemporary organizations. Additionally, students will come to understand the benefits afforded to organizations that create, craft and maintain a rich, empowering culture.

In Strategic Human Resource Management, students will analyze workforce management processes in light of their strategic importance. This will include an examination of the relationships between traditional human resource functions and the various business functions so that efficiency and effectiveness are balanced and optimized. Students will also review these processes and relationships in both the domestic and global environments now and in the future. Further, students conduct research to explore trends within the discipline of Human Resource Management that have a positive impact upon employee engagement as well as the productivity and profitability of an organization.

In this course, students will evaluate the process of change as related to the principles and practices of various types of organizations. Students will conduct research into the area of total rewards to determine what influences are leading many organizations to implement progressive human resource practices. Students will apply this learning to examine change processes and techniques used to facilitate transformational change in order to enhance employee engagement and organizational success. Students will also understand the business case supporting why companies should invest in their employees and internal cultures, regardless of industry affiliation, company size and/or revenue generation and apply this research to examine the processes and techniques for facilitating transformational change.

Information Technology Focus

This course critically analyzes the current state of IT strategy practices and demonstrates how an IT strategy serves as a strong foundation for competitive IT management. Several tools and methods are synthesized to assess internal and external environments for formulating a strategy, execute a strategy based on environmental factors, and improve a strategy. The course brings the current academic and business literature to the class. It examines emerging IT strategy and management issues such as hyper-automation, AI, cybersecurity mesh, anywhere operations, and the internet of behaviors.

This course aims to improve critical thinking and decision-making skills in the IT policy and governance field. The course brings forth today's complex and cutting-edge computing environment by taking threats, vulnerabilities, and cyber controls into account. This course provokes the questions of how the GRC (Governance, Risk Management, Compliance) practices should be applied in today's complex IT environments to make the most out of the cutting-edge technology and how critical assets should be protected from adversarial actions of advanced persistent threats. The course brings various essential processes and services to the table, including but not limited to supply-chain risks, innovation, and resilience. Research papers and discussion assignments help students obtain pertinent information and improve research and academic writing skills within the field.

Vision is necessary for an organization to adopt, implement, and use information technology effectively. Leadership makes vision work. In this course, students will study, research, and apply leadership concepts, theories, and constructs that have been shown to be successful in information technology organizations. Two broad topics, (1) Vision and leadership in IT, (2) How to choose and benefit from the technology to accomplish the vision, will be delivered in the first four weeks of the course. This course is heavily based on research, presentation, and writing on future trends combined with leading people and IT organizations. In the first four weeks, each student will pick a very recent technology and research and write a paper about it. In the last four weeks, they will present the technologies that they've researched.

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Microcredentials Align with Job Essentials

In today's dynamic work environments, adaptive professionals thrive. A microcredential - either as a stand-alone course or integrated into your degree program - is a short, skill-specific recognition that enables you to demonstrate your competency in a distinct area. Like Franklin's degree programs, microcredentials are aligned with market and industry demand to ensure what you learn can be put to use right away. Microcredentials are easily shared via digital badges and can be stacked to create a unique portfolio of in-demand skills.

PK-12 Educational Leadership

Higher Education Leadership

Organizational Leadership

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership-Higher Education Leadership Focus Program Details

A learning outcome map functions as a roadmap to help guide students' progress through their program of study. Click HERE to view the Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership matrix.

The admission process reflects Franklin University’s efforts to clearly identify the performance standards that can help predict student success in graduate level study. The selection criterion for Franklin’s graduate programs, as determined by faculty, emphasizes academic ability, contributory work experience, and personal qualities and characteristics.

Requirements for admission include having earned a master’s degree from an institution accredited by a Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)-recognized accrediting organization with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Applicants who earned lower than a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in their earned master’s degree can petition for admission to the program chair by submitting an essay detailing other criteria that the applicant believes should be considered to demonstrate their ability to be successful in a doctoral program. This petition could include details on the applicant’s work experience, work ethic, level of professionalism, personality characteristics, level of difficulty of program of study previously completed, etc. 

If a student is admitted as a result of the petition, the student will need to obtain a “B” average (3.0 GPA) during the first doctoral-level course (ENG 800) of their program. If the terms of the conditional enrollment are not met, the student will not be allowed to advance in their program and will be unable to earn this graduate degree from Franklin University. 

English Language Testing & TOEFL IELTS

Prospective students must demonstrate English Language Proficiency. The requirement is met through any of the following:

• The applicant is a citizen of a country where English is the official language.*
• The applicant has received a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution located in an English-speaking country in which the courses were taught in English.*
• The applicant has earned appropriate scores on language proficiency exams taken within the last two years, as listed in the  Academic Catalog .  

*For more information about English proficiency, including a list of English-speaking nations, please visit our International Students section.

To be awarded a graduate degree, students must:

• Successfully complete all required curriculum courses.
• Maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00.
• Earn in residence at Franklin University at least 34 of the 58 required credits. According to the Ohio Department of Higher Education, to earn a doctorate degree, students must have completed a minimum of 90 semester credit hours above the bachelor’s degree. Students requiring additional credit hours to meet this minimum will take GRAD 900 Advanced Integrative Research.
• Complete the payment of all requisite tuition and fees.
• Not to be under disciplinary dismissal due to academic dishonesty or violation of Student Code of Conduct.

The University employs a team approach to planning, developing and maintaining its academic curriculum. An essential element of this process – and a key to the institution’s quality assurance practices – is the Program Advisory Board (and the associated Alumni Advisory Board). A diverse array of business and industry leaders make up these discipline-specific boards that provide guidance on theory-to-practice ideas, global business perspectives, and emerging topics in the field. Each academic year, Program Advisory Boards meet with Division Chairs and faculty for lively and engaged conversations, thus bringing members’ substantial professional experience and expertise into the classroom. In addition, some Division Chairs elect to engage Program Advisory Board members in the assessment of academic program outcomes.

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Career Opportunities

Presidents plan and direct academic programs and operational activities.

College Dean

College Deans manage the resources within an academic college, from budgets and faculty workload to maintenance and expansion of new and existing programs.

Professors primarily plan curriculum, conduct original research, and teach and test students, helping expand their knowledge within a particular subject matter or discipline.

Adjunct Faculty

 Adjunct faculty provide high-quality instruction, as well as evaluate and monitor student progress.

Admissions Director

Admissions directors set university enrollment goals, participate in the awarding of financial aid and scholarships and oversee admissions team members who manage the application process.

Employment Outlook

From 2021-2031 jobs in organizational leadership are expected to increase by 13%.

All Occupations

Chief Executives

Postsecondary Teachers

Source information provided by Lightcast.

Frequently asked questions.

At Franklin, you could complete your online Doctorate in Higher Education degree -- including your dissertation -- in about 3 years. Want to finish even faster? Ask about transferring up to 24 hours of previously earned credit.

When you start your Ed.D. in Higher Education online program at Franklin, you’re also starting to transform your career path. Like our other online doctoral programs, Franklin's Ed.D. Higher Education leadership doctorate starts every January, April, August and September.

Investing in your future is affordable at Franklin University because you get a quality education at a competitive cost. Unlike per-year or per-term college expenses, our per-credit-hour tuition rates make it easy to calculate the cost of earning your doctorate. Franklin’s 2023-2024 tuition rate is $748 per credit hour. Get a personalized cost estimate of your Ed.D.-Higher Education Leadership with Franklin’s free MyCost Estimator . Questions? Ask our helpful staff about financial aid programs and tuition financing options.

An Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership with a focus in Higher Education Leadership draws on best practices in leadership to build your competency as an effective leader who is well-prepared to solve real-world problems and drive organizational change. Franklin’s Ed.D. in Higher Education is ideal for current and aspiring leaders who are ready to make an impact in their workplace.

With an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership degree with a focus on Higher Education Leadership, you can qualify for a variety of positions, including university president, dean of students or faculty member. From community colleges and private colleges to four-year colleges and universities, institutes of higher education are looking for leaders who hold the skills and qualifications of an Ed.D. Higher Education.

Earning an Ed.D. Organizational Leadership doctorate in Higher Education is the pinnacle of career credentials to support your professional ambitions. The Organizational Leadership Ed.D. in Higher Education is designed to equip and empower you to become a dynamic leader who can translate the complexities of an institution of higher learning into opportunities for growth and success.

As a leader in practical application education, an Ed.D. in Higher Education online program from Franklin University equips you with the decision-making and ethical leadership skills needed to develop and implement strategies that solve complex issues. And because Franklin uses an embedded dissertation process, our program is designed for completion. That means you'll use the findings you develop throughout your coursework to advance your dissertation research and get a head start on finishing it -- all while you earn your degree.

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

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

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

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

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

View our program guide for more information.

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

Access coursework  100% online  with no campus visits required.

Attend residency  on campus or virtually .

Complete your  courses and dissertation simultaneously .

Receive  personal mentorship  from scholar-practitioner faculty.

Benefit from the added support of our  cohort learning model .

Graduate in as few as  32 months .

Why choose Maryville for your online EdD program?

Our online EdD program offers unique benefits.

Our dissertation is different

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

Our focus is different

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

We’re cohort based

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

We provide greater support

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

What can you do with an online Doctor of Education?

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

Career opportunities with an EdD in Higher Education Leadership

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

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

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

In settings such as:

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

Learn more on  our careers page .

What is the typical Doctor of Education salary?

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

College/University President

College/University Administrator

Department Chair

Dean of Students

Admissions Director

Chief Academic Affairs Officer

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

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

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

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

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

Faculty insights

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

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

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

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

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

What are the most important skills employers are looking for?

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

Why should students choose to take this program at Maryville?

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

Online EdD in Higher Education Leadership curriculum

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

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

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

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

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

Online Doctor of Education admission requirements

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

Learn more on  our admissions page .

Frequently asked questions

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

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

What is the typical salary for online EdD program graduates?

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

What does the future hold for the higher education industry?

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

How long is the online EdD program?

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

What are the benefits of earning an online EdD degree?

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

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

Bring us your ambition and we’ll guide you along a personalized path to a quality education that’s designed to change your life.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Online Doctorate in Education Administration

Online Education Administration Doctorate Degree: An Overview

How long does it take to earn a doctorate in education administration online, how much does an online doctorate in education administration cost, online education administration doctorate admissions requirements, choosing an accredited online education administration degree program, online coursework, education administration doctorate degree specializations, research project, professional associations in education administration.

• The School Superintendents Association: The association – also known as AASA – is an organization for superintendents, chief executive officers, professors, senior level administrators and other educational leaders. AASA offers several resources to its members, including policy and advocacy blogs and superintendent certification. AASA’s department of children’s programs features campaigns that advocate for child health insurance, support their healthy eating and active living, and improve school discipline measures.
• Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education : With over 15,000 members nationwide, the association – also known as NASPA – supports professionals who work in student affairs. These include vice presidents and deans, individuals working in housing and residence life, student unions, counseling and minority support services. Members can attend annual international symposiums, well-being and health promotion leadership conferences, and sexual violence prevention and response conferences.
• American Educational Research Association : AERA is a national association that focuses on conducting research to improve education. The association holds an annual meeting and publishes several journals on educational research, statistics and policy analysis.

Example courses

• Foundations of leadership
• Research in educational leadership
• Statistical methods
• Contemporary issues in higher education leadership and administration
• Higher education policy research and analysis

Job Outlook and Salaries for Graduates

What are jobs in education administration.

• Elementary, middle or high school principal : Principals manage the daily operations of a school. Duties include hiring and supporting teachers and staff, organizing curricula and ensuring that students receive an effective education. Principals also communicate with parents to discuss student performance and behavior. Most schools require principals to have teaching experience and a master’s degree in educational administration or leadership.
• Postsecondary education administrator : This type of educator works for colleges and universities, overseeing student and faculty services in different departments and offices. Postsecondary administrators work in admissions, registrar’s offices and student affairs. They also work as provosts or deans and develop academic policies, manage budgets, and direct faculty appointments and tenure decisions. This occupation generally requires several years of experience and a master’s or doctoral degree.
• School superintendent or college/university president : Superintendents and presidents are in charge of school districts or colleges and universities. In addition to communicating with government agencies and other external organizations, these executives manage general operations and student and faculty issues. Superintendents and university presidents typically need a doctorate in an education-related field.

Licensure and certification

How much are salaries for education administration graduates.

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

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

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

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

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

Universities Offering Doctorate in Higher Education Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Andrews University

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

Andrews University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Appalachian State University

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

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

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

3. Colorado State University

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

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

Colorado State  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

4. Concordia University – Chicago

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

Concordia University Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Drexel University

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

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

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

6. East Carolina University

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

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

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

7. Fairleigh Dickinson University

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

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

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

8. Gwynedd Mercy University

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

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

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

9. Indiana State University

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

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

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Liberty University

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

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

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

11. Maryville University

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

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

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

12. Missouri Baptist University

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

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

Missouri Baptist University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

13. Notre Dame of Maryland University

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

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

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

14. Nova Southeastern University

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

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

15. Oregon State University

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

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

16. Regent University

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

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

17. Saint Cloud State University

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

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

18. Saint Peter’s University

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

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

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

19. Texas Tech University

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

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

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

20. University of Florida

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

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

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

21. University of Memphis

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

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

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

22. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

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

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

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

23. University of North Dakota

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

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

24. University of Southern Mississippi

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

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

25. Wilmington University

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

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

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

Online Higher Education Doctoral Programs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Higher Education Careers & Salaries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Choosing an Online Doctorate in Higher Education

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

Some of these factors may include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Curriculum & Courses

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

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

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

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

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

Admissions Requirements

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

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

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

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

Accreditation

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

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

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

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

Financial Aid and Scholarships

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Much Does an Online Doctorate in Higher Education Cost?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is a Higher Education Doctoral Program Worth It?

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

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

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

Getting Your Higher Education Doctorate Online

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

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

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

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Higher Education Admin. PhD – Student Affairs Degree

Transfer credits, next start date, ascend to the pinnacle of academia with liberty’s phd in higher education online – student affairs.

You’ve dedicated the better part of your life to the service of younger generations. Through the years, you’ve influenced and mentored countless students – you have provided support to pupils through hard times, helped them celebrate good times, and forged quality citizens.

You may wonder how you can serve your students even better. The 21 st century poses unprecedented challenges to younger generations, and professionals like you play an integral role in preparing your students for what lies before them. Education has never been as important as it is today, and with Liberty University’s 100% online PhD in Higher Education Administration – Students Affairs, you can prepare for more years of exceptional service in the field of education.

As a seasoned educator, you know that there’s more to education than teaching students. Administrative, legal, historical, and economic implications are all areas that require attention, but it isn’t always easy to navigate such issues. That’s why we’ve designed our student affairs PhD holistically – meaning that our program can help you become a standout professor, an inspiring administrative leader, and a knowledgeable student affairs authority whose expertise is preceded only by your care for students.

Don’t just improve your own career prospects — learn how to improve the career prospects of your students. By choosing Liberty for your PhD in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs, you can earn a life-changing credential capable of helping you take your career in education to new heights.

What’s the difference between a PhD in Higher Education Administration and an EdD in Higher Education Administration?

The difference between our PhD in Higher Education Administration and our EdD in Higher Education Administration lies in the emphasis. EdDs place a heavier emphasis on practical application while PhDs focus more on theory. Another difference between our EdD in Higher Education Administration and our PhD in Higher Education Administration is that our PhD includes a dissertation while the EdD includes a capstone project.

If you’re interested in pursuing a research-based career in a collegiate setting, a PhD in Higher Education Administration may be the best fit for you. If you’re more interested in learning hands-on skills that can be applied directly to classrooms, our EdD may be a better fit.

Regardless of what your career goals are, both degree programs can be used for personal enrichment and career advancement in the field of higher education.

Why Choose Liberty’s PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree – Student Affairs?

As a pioneer in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create an online degree program that challenges you to grow while also respecting your commitments. We realize that your personal responsibilities don’t go away when you enroll in a degree program, which is why our PhD in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs can be completed 100% online with no required intensives.

Liberty’s PhD program in higher education administration – student affairs can help you pursue well-paying, in-demand job opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals who hold a doctoral degree earned a median weekly wage of $1,885 in 2020.* Additionally, the median annual wage for postsecondary education administrators in 2020 was $97,500, and demand for this profession is projected to grow 8% by 2030.** Our PhD in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs could be your ticket to similar careers.

Another advantage to Liberty’s student affairs PhD is the versatility of the degree. The field of student affairs is a broad, widely encompassing field of education. Student affairs professionals are often responsible for several academic areas, such as advising, alumni relations, campus recreation, career services, or student counseling services.

At times, student affairs professionals are the glue that binds a student body together. They oversee student activity programs, coordinate the administrative side of residence life, and spearhead the enforcement of student conduct policies. Liberty’s higher education administration PhD in student affairs can help prepare you for all of these roles — and more.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Education pays  (viewed online Sept. 21, 2021). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

**Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at  Postsecondary Education Administrators  (viewed online Sept. 21, 2021). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

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 towards your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession — for less.

What Will You Learn in Our PhD in Higher Education Online – Student Affairs Degree?

Our PhD in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs degree program consists of 4 sections: higher education core courses, student affairs courses, research classes, and a dissertation sequence.

In the higher education courses, you will study effective teaching methods for college settings. You will also study college and university administration, historical perspectives of higher education, the economic impacts of higher education, and the intricacies of accreditation.

The student affairs specialization allows you to explore current issues and trends, leadership and administration, and legal implications in student affairs. Our student affairs PhD in higher education allows you to choose a free-elective course to conclude your study of student affairs. This elective course is an excellent opportunity for you to study a topic in education that you’re passionate about.

The research section of this degree is designed to help you prepare for your dissertation. Our research courses will guide you through advanced educational statistics as well as quantitative and qualitative research methods. In addition, you will complete a literature review and explore various research concepts.

The dissertation sequence allows you to research, write, and present your findings to our School of Education faculty. This provides an excellent opportunity for you to present your own findings to the academic community and conduct groundbreaking research that can inspire future research.

Featured Courses

• EDUC 758 – Teaching the College Student
• EDUC 785 – Current Issues and Trends in Student Affairs
• EDUC 786 – Leadership and Administration in Student Affairs
• EDUC 787 – Legal Issues and Policies in Student Affairs

Highlights of Our Student Affairs PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online PhD in Higher Education Administration from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• 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.
• Upon successful completion of this degree program, you will have earned the title of “Doctor” – a title that commands respect in academic communities.
• Liberty University is regionally accredited by SACSCOC , the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

PhD in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs Degree Information

• This program falls under the  School of Education .
• Download and review the  Degree Completion Plan .
• 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 semester-long.

Apply Now     Request Info

Potential Career Opportunities for PhD in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs Degree Graduates

• College/university administrator
• Policy analyst
• Program coordinator
• Student affairs director

Admission Requirements for the PhD in Higher Education Administration – Student Affairs Degree

A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with a 3.0 or above cumulative GPA is required for admission in good standing. Please visit our admission requirements page for more detailed admissions-related information.

All applicants must submit the following:

• Admission application
• Application fee*
• Official college transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

*There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses — documentation verifying military status is required.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

Apply FREE This Week*

Other programs you may be interested in

Doctor of Philosophy (PHD)

Higher Educational Administration: Educational Leadership

Next Start Date: May 13, 2024

Doctor of Education (EDD)

Higher Education Administration: Student Affairs

Higher education administration: educational leadership, higher education administration: organizational leadership.

Education Specialist (EDS)

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– Janae Fleming ’15, B.S. in Education

Online Higher Education Administration Programs in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area

1-3 of 3 results

College of Education - University of North Texas

Denton, TX •

University of North Texas •

Graduate School

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Alum: A good selection of degrees that are marketable within the community. Excellent instructors that are accessible to the students. The curriculum prepares one for the profession of Educator. ... Read 2 reviews

Blue checkmark.

University of North Texas ,

Graduate School ,

DENTON, TX ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says A good selection of degrees that are marketable within the community. Excellent instructors that are accessible to the students. The curriculum prepares one for the profession of Educator. .

Read 2 reviews.

Dorothy M. Bush College of Education

Dallas, TX •

Dallas Baptist University •

Dallas Baptist University ,

DALLAS, TX ,

Gary Cook School of Leadership

School of Education - Mississippi College

Mississippi College •

Graduate School •

CLINTON, MS

Mississippi State University College of Education

Mississippi State University •

MISSISSIPPI STATE, MS

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

SAN MARCOS, CA

• • Rating 4.49 out of 5   134

Tiffin University

• • Rating 4.14 out of 5   22

Tiffin University School of Business

Tiffin University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   4

University of North Texas

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   128

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