Ed.D. in Educational Leadership

The doctoral program (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership provides the highest professional degree available to candidates who aspire to leadership positions in Education, primarily in K-12 settings.  The degree involves successful completion of a prescribed curriculum of both required and elective courses in professional studies, theory, and research methods up to a minimum of 60 hours of graduate credit. The doctoral degree is awarded upon successful completion of coursework and defense of a dissertation, which is a major independent research project carried out under the supervision of faculty advisors.

Graduates of the doctoral degree in Educational Leadership will have acquired the knowledge and skills to lead K-12 school systems and act in a leadership and consulting capacity in diverse educational organizations. The doctoral program focuses on developing leader-scholars who are prepared to effectively lead educational organizations by (a) supporting professional development for instructional improvement; (b) effectively allocating resources for student learning; (c) applying evidence-based practices in educational research and program evaluation through sound research design and interpretation; (d) interpreting laws applicable to the administration of  K-12 schools; and (e) advocating for sound policies that support the success of all students.

Admission to the doctoral program in Educational Leadership is competitive.  Applicants are encouraged to take the time to submit ALL required materials and prepare a high-quality personal statement for admission consideration. 

The Educational Leadership program utilizes a cohort model where individuals are admitted as a group, called a cohort.  Cohort members take their courses together and follow the same course degree plan for core courses.  Cognates (electives) vary. Some students complete the superintendent certification as their cognate area. A select number of applicants (about 12) are admitted to each cohort once per year.

Application Deadlines

Applicants seeking admission to the doctoral program in Educational Leadership must submit the following to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

1. Graduate Admission Application
2. Application fee
3. Official transcript from the baccalaureate degree granting institution
4. Official transcript(s) showing receipt of a master's degree in a related field from an accredited institution
5. Resume (describing education, work history, leadership experiences, and listing at least 3 professional references)
6. Application Essay. Not to exceed 1,800 words.  Please, address these specific questions in an essay:
   a) What are some highlights of your professional career?
   b) What are some experiences that demonstrate your leadership strengths?
   c) What are your professional goals?
   d) What reasons do you have for pursuing a Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership (K-12) at Sam Houston State University?

Note: Applicants selected after the initial screening will be invited for an interview.

Applicants should hold a master's degree in a related field, and the student's graduate GPA should be 3.5 or higher. In addition, three years of full-time professional experience in a school or agency is preferred.

The program requires a minimum of sixty hours of graduate credit, successful passing of a comprehensive examination, and completion of a dissertation.

Note: The 12 hours of cognate can vary based on candidate interests and goals. Additional requirements are needed to obtain a Texas Principal or Superintendent certification.