Graduate Programs

The Department of Educational Leadership and Policy offers graduate programs that develop thought leaders and administrators for public school, college, and university settings. These master’s and doctoral programs focus on current and important topics, and the policies that positively influence modern education.

Students are prepared to become leaders and role models, with extensive leadership and policy knowledge gained through research alongside faculty. Each program has a focus on diversity and equity of education for all students at all levels of education. Graduate students learn the importance of collaboration between administrators and their educational community that promotes successful learning and opportunity.

Two women in the Educational Leadership and Policy program talk about a paper during class.

Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership

The PHEL Ph.D. program prepares students in the scholarly study of higher education. Through research across departments within the university, students gain first-hand experience into effective applications, policies, and leadership skills used in academia by faculty and staff. Students also learn how universities function as advocates for social justice and support increasingly diverse student populations. This program starts in the fall semester.

Executive Ed.D. faculty address the first cohort of students.

Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership

The Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership program prepares students for higher education leadership careers. Students will learn competencies in social justice, equity, research, organization, and technology that contribute to aspects of a qualified educational leader. This program is designed for working professionals to be completed within 30 months and starts in the first summer session.

Professor Richard Reddick leads a graduate seminar

M.Ed. in Higher Education Leadership

The M.Ed. in Higher Education Leadership emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to course work. Students can tailor the program of study to fit their interests while building sound theoretical foundations, self-reflection practices, and practical experiences.

Three graduate students sit at a table in front of a wall full of large notes about leadership.

Cooperative Superintendency Program

This program prepares students with the skills, knowledge, and real-world experiences to provide direction within a dynamic educational landscape. Students are engaged through content focusing on superintendency preparation, as well as for positions in state education agencies, education research centers, and executive-level positions in both urban and suburban districts. This program starts in the first summer session.

Ed.D.

A professor interacts with a student in class

Education Policy and Planning Program

This interdisciplinary program focuses on preparing the next generation of scholars, researchers, and analysts who will significantly impact public education. Through vigorous coursework and innovative research, students examine important topics and issues in public schools to better inform policies that benefit all students. Both degree programs have a fall semester start.

M.Ed. Ph.D.

Graduate students listen as a classmate delivers a presentation.

Texas Principal Leadership Academy

Built on the strengths and historic legacy of preparing public school leaders, the Leadership Academy is a 15-month master’s program designed to prepare graduates to be leaders of socially just, equitable, and high-achieving public schools. This program begins in the first summer session.

M.Ed.

Contacts

Jennifer Holme - Graduate Advisor

Facilitates the administrative processing of admissions, matriculation, and graduation, as well as overseeing curriculum, funding, doctoral candidacy and dissertations.

Kelsey Samsel

Performs the administrative processing of admissions, registration, enrollment, academic appointments, scholarships, doctoral candidacy, graduation, and maintaining academic records.