The Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership is a research-oriented program.
The PhD program prepares individuals to conduct and evaluate research that will expand
knowledge in educational leadership. Typically, the PhD student plans a career as
a university professor, a policy analyst, or a research director in a state or local
education agency.
Contact Information
For more information about the Educational Leadership Doctoral program, contact Dr. Robert Voelkel.
Application Deadline
Domestic and International students: January 7 for a program start in the Fall semester
of the same calendar year.
GRE Requirement
The GRE is NOT required.
TOEFL Requirement
International applicants whose native language is not English must have a score of
at least 550 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
GPA Requirement
Graduate Applicants are evaluated holistically, based on specific departmental and
program requirements. In the past, successful candidates usually had a 3.50 GPA in
master’s-level studies for admission to the doctoral program. However, the program
will still review applications with GPAs lower than 3.5.
For step-by-step instructions on the application process, please visit the Graduate
Admissions website. This will include details on how to submit materials including
transcripts, letters of recommendation and other items. Start your application here.
Supplemental Documents
Applicants must also submit an application portfolio directly to the Educational Leadership
program office that includes the following:
Personal Statement
A three-page double-spaced personal statement describing the applicant’s (a) interests
in and reasons for pursuing a Ph.D. in educational leadership, (b) future career goals
related to educational leadership, (c) early thinking around a research topic or policy
issue the applicant may want to pursue during their time in the program, and (d) specific
faculty whose research dovetails with the applicant’s burgeoning interests.
Writing Sample
A sample of the applicant’s best-written work that is scholarly-oriented with references.
This could be a paper from a master’s class, an article or book chapter, or other
similar work.
Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation from three people who can provide evidence of the applicant’s
reading, writing and critical thinking skills. One of the letters should be from a
college or university professor familiar with the individual’s academic strengths,
and one letter should be from a supervisor or mentor familiar with the individual’s
professional work.
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
A curriculum vitae demonstrating prior educational and professional experience.
Evidence of Teaching and Administration
Documentation of at least two years of teaching experience in either a public or private
school. Documentation of experience in educational administration or educational management
in school systems or other public or private non-profits, such as NGOs, museums, and/or
policy organizations.
Interview
After your application is received, the Admissions Committee will be in touch to schedule
a short interview. Committee members will have questions for applicants. Applicants
are encouraged to ask the committee questions, as well.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships in this program are competitive. For information on how to
apply for one, please contact the department.