phd higher education administration illinois

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Higher Education Specialization

Prepare for leadership positions in post-secondary, community college, college and university systems as well as state policy and administrative positions.

The Leadership PhD program  with a specialization in higher education  is designed for higher education professionals who have the goal of becoming an established expert in higher education leadership, administration and education. Courses in the program focus on the policies, practices and issues facing both public and private post-secondary institutions. Students gain research skills that stem from evidence-based decision making, while simultaneously gaining an understanding of the complexities of higher education institutions. The program focuses on higher education systems in the U.S., but also analyzes the globalization of higher education.

The specialization in higher education is designed to enable students to:

• Understand the complexities of higher education  and its organizational and business principles and practices.
• Apply and analyze learning solutions  that support and drive higher education and student retention and success.
• Strategically support the various stakeholders  with informed and judicious decisions.
• Identify and integrate leadership orientations  that align with the institutional mission and vision statement.
• Exercise professional ethical behavior  that supports the institutional mission and allocation of resources to support and achieve institutional objectives.

Learning Objectives

In addition to the overall objectives of the leadership department and its programs, students will acquire the following knowledge, skills and competencies in the leadership program’s specialization in higher education:

• Be cognizant of current and emerging trends in higher education and apply one’s knowledge of best practices in support of student retention and success.
• Appreciate the diverse leadership perspectives in higher education in areas of systems, organizational change, outcomes assessment and research models for engaging and promoting effective institutions.
• Integrate current theory and best institutional practices into one’s personal and professional performance to promote institutional health and sustainability.

See Academic Catalog for curriculum details on this specialization

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PHD in Higher Education | Education and Human Services | SIU

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Educational Administration and Higher Education

Ph.D. in Education

In the School of Education, the Doctor of Philosophy degree is a cross-departmental degree offered in five departments. Educational Administration and Higher Education participates in the Ph.D. in Education program with a concentration in educational administration. The program provides advanced level preparation related to administrative practices and policies in P-20 educational settings. Students focus their studies in either pre-K-12 administration or higher education. In addition to learning to do independent, high quality research, the core of the program includes study of policy and politics in educational systems, leadership and change in educational organizations, program development and evaluation, ethics and social justice, and education and culture.

Review the  Ph.D. Policies and Procedures  information.

Preliminary Examination

The preliminary examination are used to fulfill two broad purposes:

• Students must also complete a preliminary exam prior to the admission into Ph. D. candidacy.
• To determine the breadth and depth of a student’s scholarship; and
• To demonstrate command of the knowledge base in the chosen discipline.

The preliminary exam offers the doctoral student an opportunity to demonstrate that s/he has become an independent and original thinker in the discipline as a consequence of the study and research engaged in during formal graduate coursework. The preliminary examination in EAHE consists of three questions negotiated by the student and their advisor in each of the following broad areas: theory, research, and specialty area. The questions negotiated for each of these three areas of the preliminary exam are meant to be overarching and integrative, and designed to test the student’s understanding of concepts, theories, and methodologies relevant to his or her program of study. The examination will be administered on the fifth week of each semester. Students must apply to take the preliminary exam.

Please refer to the  Graduate School forms  page for all forms not available below.

• Preliminary Procedures
• Preliminary Application
• Student Doctoral Committee Form (three copies): Use this form to identify who will serve on your doctoral committee. Be sure to indicate whether the person can 'direct' dissertation or whether they are 'regular' graduate faculty. Those who are adjunct will need a letter from your chair to the departmental graduate director requesting such permission. In addition, this person's vitae needs to accompany the request.
• Admission to Candidacy Form (four copies): This form is completed after the student has successfully passed all sections of their preliminary examination. After completion, give this form to the Departmental Graduate Director.
• Prospectus Approval Form (two copies on blue): This form is filled out by the student and/or chair prior to prospectus. Committee members sign the form if the student has had a successful prospectus. Turn signed copies to the Departmental Graduate Director, who will then forward it to the appropriate channels. Make sure that the copies are on blue.
• Ph.D. Oral Defense (two copies on white bond): Student will complete this form prior to the defense. Please provide these completed forms to your chair prior to your defense. Note, you may want to have additional copies.
• Dissertation Approval Form (four copies): This form should be prepared ahead of the defense and be given to the chair of the committee at the beginning of the defense. This will be placed in the front of the thesis after the final changes have been made. The chair of the committee keeps these forms until the final changes are made.
• Students who plan to graduate in a particular semester are required to complete this form and turn it into the graduate school. Note: if graduation does NOT occur in that semester, the application will roll-over to the next semester until graduation requirements have been met.

Course Catalog

Education policy, organization & leadership, phd.

for the Doctor of Philosophy in Education Policy, Organization & Leadership (on campus)

Degree programs in the Department of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership are designed to meet the academic and professional interests of individuals preparing for careers as academic professionals, adult educators, college professors, corporate trainers, educational policy analysts, governmental administrators, instructional designers/technologists, non-profit representatives, organizational development specialists, and university administration leaders. 

Admission The Department of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership carefully considers all applicants for graduate study. Interested applicants should start at the College of Education Graduate Programs website . The quality of the applicant's undergraduate and graduate training and grade point average are primary considerations. Other important factors evaluated include the three letters of recommendation and statement of purpose. International applicants are required to submit proof of English proficiency. Specific requirements and waiver options are listed on the Graduate College website .

Off-Campus Programs

The Ed.M., Ed.D., and C.A.S. degree options within the Education Administration and Leadership graduate concentration with Principal Endorsement option are offered in the Chicago region. An Ed.D. degree cohort also is available with a Superintendent Endorsement option.  The Ed.M. and Ed.D. degree options are offered in an Online programs for students in the following graduate concentration areas: Diversity & Equity in Education, Global Studies in Education, Human Resource Development, and Learning Design and Leadership.   Requirements for the off-campus and online programs are identical to the on-campus degrees.

Facilities and Resources The College of Education also has many resources to assist graduate students through their academic career. The Bureau of Educational Research works with students to secure research funding. The Council on Teacher Education entitles candidates seeking a Professional Educator License and provides accreditation of professional education programs. Each student completing a degree program is assigned a graduate adviser, who is available to assist the student with planning the program of study and determining degree requirements, courses and timelines for degree completion.

Information on University resources can be found at the GradMAP pages website .

Financial Aid Financial aid in the form of assistantships, scholarships, fellowships, and tuition waivers can be found throughout the college and campus. Campus opportunities can be found at the Graduate College and the Office of Student Financial Aid . The College of Education follows all University of Illinois policies regarding graduate student Fellowship, Scholarship and awards.

The Department of Education Policy, Organization & Leadership offers many programs leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). A list of programs and additional requirements can be found on the program's website,  the College of Education Graduate Programs Handbook , and the Graduate College Handbook .

Students may select a concentration in:

African American Studies , Digital Learning , Diversity & Equity in Education , Educational Administration & Leadership , Global Studies in Education , Higher Education , History of Education , Human Resource Development , Learning Design & Leadership , Philosophy of Education , Social Sciences & Education Policy , Writing Studies

Other requirements

Upon the conclusion of the Ph.D. program in EPOL, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced levels of knowledge and skills in developing, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based scholarly research.
• Demonstrate scholarly leadership on how to improve equity, diversity, and social justice across a wide range of educational, organizational, and policy contexts.
• Disseminate information about the result of scholarly research and reflective practices to inform scholarly and practitioner communities.

for the Doctor of Philosophy in Education Policy, Organization & Leadership  (on campus)

Department of Education Policy, Organization & Leadership   Head of the Department: Yoon Pak Directors of Graduate Studies: Liv T. Davila and Lorenzo Baber Graduate Admissions Information: Linda Stimson (on campus) and Jena Pfoff (online/off-campus) Education Policy, Organization & Leadership website Education Policy, Organization & Leadership faculty   142 Education Building, 1310 South Sixth Street, Champaign, IL 61820 (217) 244-3542 Graduate Student Services Office email

College of Education College of Education website College of Education programs

Admissions College of Education Admissions & Requirements  Graduate College Admissions & Requirements

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College of Education

Doctoral programs, doctoral degree programs heading link copy link.

• PhD Critical Pedagogies - Urban Teacher Education
• PhD Educational Psychology–HDL Human Development & Learning Emphasis
• PhD Educational Psychology–MESA Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics & Assessment (MESA) Emphasis
• PhD Literacy, Language & Culture Study learning, making, and digital literacies in multilingual, multicultural urban communities
• PhD Mathematics and Science Education Focus on P-20 mathematics and science education in urban settings in and out of schools
• PhD Policy Studies–Education, Leadership & Policy Study education, leadership, and policy in urban schools and school districts
• PhD Policy Studies–Social Foundations Study the social, cultural, racial, political, economic and global contexts of education, particularly for urban schools
• PhD Special Education Focus on research and advocacy toward the needs of urban children with special education needs
• EdD Urban Education Leadership Nationally ranked principal, superintendent, and school leader prep program

Application Deadlines Heading link Copy link

All PhD programs admit students for Summer and/or Fall semesters.  There is no Spring semester admission for PhD programs.

The deadline to apply to PhD programs for Summer admission is December 15 and for Fall admission, December 1 .

The EdD Urban Education Leadership program admits new students starting in the Spring semester only.  The application deadline for the EdD program is July 15.

Questions about Doctoral Programs? Contact: Heading link Copy link

Elise wilson.

• How to Enroll
• Request Info

Online Doctoral Programs

College of education.

The Ed.D. in Diversity & Equity in Education is a social-justice oriented program that aims at providing educators with transformative approaches to issues related to diversity and equity in P-16 learning environments.

Diversity & Equity in Education Ed.D.

The Ed.D in Global Studies in Education for teachers, unit heads, principals, managers, study abroad officers and program coordinators that provide the opportunity to learn and think more critically about issues of globalization and education.

Global Studies in Education ED.D.

The Ed.D. in Human Resource Development provides students an understanding of how to support their organization by gaining knowledge and skills in all administrative functions.

Human Resource Development Ed.D.

Doctor of Education to train professionals to lead, develop, implement and evaluate international programming and internationalization activities in the private and public sectors.

International Education Administration & Leadership Ed.D.

The Learning Design & Leadership Ed.D. program is for educators who want to advance their credentials in creating efficient, effective, and engaging learning environments.

Learning Design & Leadership Ed.D.

Online Doctor of Education (EdD) Programs in Illinois

Illinois is home to 11 schools that offer Doctor of Education programs online. Aurora University, Bradley University, Concordia University Chicago, Governors State University, Illinois State University, National Louis University, Northern Illinois University, Olivet Nazarene University, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, University of Illinois, and the University of St. Francis all have EdDs students can pursue through online study, making few or no visits to campus. A total of 14 online EdD programs are available through these institutions, in specializations such as Educational Leadership, Early Childhood Education, Higher Education Administration and Leadership, K-12 Education Learning and Technology, Organizational Leadership, Human Resource Development, Ethical Leadership, and more.

All of the schools listed on this page are nonprofit institutions regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), with the exception of The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, which has accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Certain programs or departments mentioned below may also be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Schools in Illinois with Online EdD Programs

Aurora University offers an online EdD with specializations in Instructional Leadership: Coaching and Mentoring; and Leadership in Adult Learning and Higher Education. This program features courses that prepare students to engage in research that connects theory to improving practice in K-12 and higher education settings. The EdD at Aurora is comprised of 60 course credits, regardless of the specialization students choose. First-year courses that students take in this program cover topics such as in organizational theory and change management, educational research, diversity and social justice in education, equality in education, instructional coaching for adults in professional contexts, and curriculum and assessment for K-12 settings. The more advanced second-year courses in this program cover topics in education research design, qualitative and quantitative research methods, curriculum development and assessment for special populations, strategic planning and finance for institutions of higher education, and advanced instructional practices and learning theory for school improvement. All students are required to complete an internship that is relevant to their chosen specialization, and they also devote their final year in the program to their dissertation, which is an independent research project that addresses a relevant problem of practice in education, coaching and mentorship, K-12 learning, and/or higher education.

Bradley University , located in Peoria, offers an online Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration and Leadership that integrates Bradley University’s values of social justice, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy into the coursework to prepare students for a diversity of leadership roles in higher education settings (including community college leadership). This program is comprised of 48 credits divided across 16 courses. The core courses cover key topics in educational governance and higher education boards, education policies and their ethical and political foundations, technology-based learning, and educational assessment, analysis, and accountability. Students subsequently take a Higher Education Administration and Leadership course sequence that covers key concepts and skills in student and academic affairs, contemporary learning, financial management in higher education, and leadership at the university and community college levels. For their final graduation requirement, students must complete a Scholarly Research Project that emphasizes action research. To guide them through the action research process, this program features a Doctoral Research course sequence that introduces students to action research principles, design, ethics, data collection methods, data analysis and reporting, and scholarly writing and presentation. In addition, students receive guidance from faculty mentors throughout the research process. Finally, students must fulfill a relevant internship to fulfill their graduation requirements.

Bradley University also offers an online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership in Technology, which is designed to prepare educators to integrate the latest instructional technologies and experiential learning platforms into their work setting to optimize learning outcomes. This program, which is also 48 credits, features the same core courses as Bradley University’s Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration, which cover educational governance, political and ethical foundations of education policy, learning in a technology-based era, and data analysis and accountability in education. However, the concentration courses in this program are specific to educational technology, and cover topics such as instructional design, learning theory and instructional strategies, digital learning and distributed instruction, applied educational media, and digitally driven education practice. Students of this program are required to complete an education technology-focused portfolio before embarking on their doctoral research project, which foregrounds action research as the primary methodology to identify and address a problem of practice that is relevant to students’ current or desired work setting.

Based in River Forest, Concordia University Chicago offers a number of EdD concentrations students can pursue online through its College of Graduate Studies. Their online Doctor of Education in Leadership has specializations in Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, Education Technology, Higher Education, Organizational Leadership, Special Education, Teacher Leadership, and Reading, Language, and Literacy. Curriculum in the program combines specialized coursework in one’s area of focus with an overall emphasis on knowledge management, decision making, conflict and change management, communication, and unique approaches to leadership. Concordia also offers an EdD degree track in Sports Leadership. All of these EdD programs require the completion of 61 credits and are fully online, with no campus visit requirements.

At Governors State University in University Park, students can pursue a Doctor of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership online in one of two concentrations: Higher Education Administration or Not for Profit/Social Entrepreneurship Leadership. Offered by the College of Education, the degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours, which includes an 18-credit core curriculum, 33 credit hours of concentration coursework, and nine hours dedicated to development of a final capstone project. Core courses in the program cover topics in leadership, research, planning, communication, globalism, and finance. The remaining curriculum is comprised primarily of coursework in one’s area of concentration. Students in the Higher Education Administration degree track, for example, take courses in Strategic Planning, Political and Legal Issues in Higher Education, Leadership in Colleges and Universities, Organizational Governance and Campus Culture in Higher Education, Theories of Teaching and Learning, Student Affairs, Accountability and Accreditation, and Business and Fiscal Management of Colleges and Universities. In addition to its two fully online EdD specializations, Governors State University also offers a hybrid EdD with a Superintendent (P-12) specialization. This program requires students to come to campus for face-to-face classes periodically during their second and third years in the program.

Illinois State University in Normal offers an online EdD in Special Education through its College of Education that is designed for educators and education leaders who want to design, implement, and enhance special education programs, and/or improve special education systems and services within public and private academic settings. This fully online program consists of 66 credit hours, divided between 51 credits of content coursework and 15 credits of dissertation work. Students take 45 credits of core courses in areas such as applied educational research, legal and policy issues affecting special education programming, personnel preparation in special education, advanced technological applications in education, grant writing and proposal development in special education, and contemporary issues in special education.

Upon completing their core courses, students take 6 credits of electives, equaling two courses; classes that they can choose from cover topics like behavioral challenges for students with autism and related disorders, curriculum development and modifications for diverse learners, moral and political underpinnings of education, teaching and supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges, and changing behavior through changing learning environments and analyzing their efficacy. Prior to embarking on their dissertation work, students must complete a Doctoral Comprehensive Examination. Once students pass their comprehensive examination, they are qualified to present their dissertation proposals. For their dissertation, students have a choice between a traditional dissertation format, a journal format dissertation, and a dissertation in practice. Throughout their work on their dissertation, students benefit from support, advising, and feedback from a dissertation committee.

Illinois State University also offers an online EdD in Educational Administration and Foundations, with a specific focus on P-12 Administration. This program is comprised of 75 credit hours, divided between 60 hours of content coursework and 15 hours of dissertation work. Required courses in this program include classes on administrative theory in education, research design in education, moral and political foundations in education policy, research design in education, applied educational research, and several doctoral research seminars. For electives, students can choose from courses in areas like school business management, school administration theory, educational policy advocacy, comparative multicultural education, and educational evaluation and assessment. Prior to starting their dissertation work, students must take and pass a Doctoral Exam. Once they pass this examination, students begin their dissertation work under the guidance of a faculty advisor and committee.

National Louis University , which has several campuses in Illinois and a campus in Tampa, FL, offers two online EdD programs. The first is an online EdD in Higher Education Leadership (which can also be completed in an on-campus format, as well as a hybrid format that mixes online and campus classes); this program prepares students to assume mission-driven leadership positions that require sound data analytics and research skills, as well as organizational leadership capabilities. Students of the online EdD in Higher Education Leadership take courses on topics such as doctoral research in higher education, data-driven decision-making, qualitative and quantitative research methods, institutional study, higher education in the United States, organizational leadership and governance, finance and budgeting, academic affairs, strategic marketing, legal issues, and student development. In addition to their core course requirements, students can take electives in areas such as psychological foundations of learning, program evaluation, organizational effectiveness, and diversity and inclusion. For their culminating experience, students complete a Doctoral Capstone, wherein they compile, collate, synthesize, and analyze past work over the course of their program and assemble it into a final presentation.

National Louis University also offers an online EdD in Teaching and Learning with a specialization in Postsecondary Teaching and Instructional Leadership. This program empowers college and university educators to improve their practice by designing and implementing effective curricula; employing a critical, reflection-based approach to teaching; and incorporating research, data analysis, and student development theory into their instructional approach. Students of this program take courses covering topics such as data analysis and interpretation, curriculum and assessment, scholarly writing, leading change, data-informed decision-making, and instructional design. In addition to their didactic coursework, students must complete an internship in Post-Secondary Teaching under the supervision of a faculty mentor and a professional subject matter expert. The EdD in Teaching and Learning also has specializations in Reading, Language and Literacy; Disability and Equity in Education; and Curriculum, Advocacy and Policy, but these specializations are offered in a blended format and are not available fully online.

Northern Illinois University (NIU) in DeKalb offers an EdD in Community College Leadership online through its College of Education’s Department of Counseling and Higher Education. The program is designed to help prepare education professionals for career advancement in a variety of areas within community colleges, including student affairs, academic administration, enrollment management, operations, or instruction. To earn their degree, students must complete a total of 54 post-master’s credits, spread over a three-year course of study. The curriculum focuses on theory-to-practice and inquiry-based educational practices, with courses in topics such as Administration of Higher Education, Community College Students, Educational Statistics, Financing Higher Education, Pedagogical Innovations and Student Learning, Public Policy Studies, Strategic Marketing and Enrollment Management, and Legal Aspects in Higher Education Administration. While courses in the spring and fall terms are delivered entirely online, summer coursework utilizes a blended format, requiring students to visit the NIU Naperville campus once a year for a one-week in-person residency.

The Education Psychology and Technology Department at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP) offers an EdD in Educational Psychology and Technology online, with optional concentrations in Higher Education Learning and Technology, K-12 Education Learning and Technology, and Instructional Design. The 60-credit program is designed to be completed in three years, and focuses on preparing students with the skills they need to effectively evaluate instructional settings and implement new technology-driven approaches to improve learning outcomes. Required core courses include The Psychology of Learning, The Theory and Profession of Educational Technology, Action Research and Evaluation, Cognition Across the Lifespan and Technology’s Impact, Integrating Technology in Learning Systems, Ethics and Standards in Educational Psychology and Technology, and Culture’s Place in Learning and Technology. Students can then choose to take either nine credits of electives or three courses associated with one of the available concentrations. While the majority of the program is online, there are two required three-and-a-half-day residency sessions, which provide the opportunity for face-to-face mentoring and networking with faculty and peers.

Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais offers an online EdD in Ethical Leadership through its School of Education. This 60-credit program prepares students to head and transform organizations through culturally sensitive and ethics-driven leadership principles, and features courses such as Intrapersonal Leadership; Interpersonal Leadership; Research Theory: Principles and Methods; Management and Strategic Planning; Policy, Politics, and Social Action; Leadership Paradigms; and Ethics, Values, and Cultural Influences in Societal Transformation. After their content coursework, students progress to 12 credits of dissertation work, during which they receive guidance and mentorship from a dissertation committee. This program features completely online classes in an accelerated format that students can complete within as few as 32 months, and also offers online support and tutoring services for its EdD students.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) has an online Doctor of Education in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership available through its College of Education. Students can pursue one of six concentrations in Diversity and Equity in Education, Global Studies in Education, Human Resource Development, International Education Administration & Leadership, Learning Design and Leadership, and Learning Design and Leadership: Technology Specialist. Each specialization requires a minimum of 64 credit hours and utilizes synchronous video class sessions that meet once a week in the evenings. Coursework in UIUC’s online EdD program varies by concentration. The Diversity and Equity in Education track, for example, includes courses in diversity, leadership, and policy; historical and social barriers to quality education; race, gender, and sexuality issues in education; special education equity; assessment of student learning; and education and human rights. Meanwhile, the International Education Administration & Leadership specialization features courses in education and human rights, global youth and citizenship, researching global education, globalizing education policy, and global issues in learning. Students pursuing any of the six concentrations online must visit campus twice during their studies, once for a preliminary exam and then again to defend their dissertation.

University of St. Francis in Joliet offers an online EdD in Educational Leadership – Leadership, Learning, and Stewardship concentration. This 60-credit program provides students with the knowledge and skills to engage in academic, sociopolitical, and organizational leadership responsibilities in the public and private sectors. Students of this program take core courses in Qualitative/Quantitative Research, Servant Leadership, and Preparation for the Dissertation Presentation & Publication. Concentration-specific courses that students take include Dynamics of Organizational and Change Theories; Stewardship of Resources; Evaluation & Accountability: Defining Organizational Success; Promoting Learning in the Organization; Leadership, Politics, and Ethics; and Experiential Leadership Projects. Students also complete a dissertation on a problem of practice that is relevant to their current or desired work, and receive guidance and support from a faculty mentor throughout their progress on their dissertation.

Online EdD Programs in Illinois

The following is a list of schools in Illinois that offer Doctor of Education degree programs online. To learn more about any of the EdD programs described on this page, click the corresponding link below to visit the school’s website.

Aurora University

Online Doctor of Education (EdD) with Specializations in Instructional Leadership: Coaching and Mentoring, Leadership in Educational Administration: Superintendent Endorsement, and Leadership in Higher Education Administration (Masters to Doctorate)

Bradley University

Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership in Technology (Masters to Doctorate)

Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration and Leadership (Masters to Doctorate)

Concordia University - Chicago

Online Doctor of Education in Sports Leadership (Masters to Doctorate)

Online EdD in Leadership (with Specializations in Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, Education Technology, Higher Education, Organizational Leadership, Special Education, Teacher Leadership, and Reading, Language and Literacy) (Masters to Doctorate)

Governors State University

Online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Interdisciplinary Leadership (with Concentrations in Higher Education Administration, and Not for Profit/Social Entrepreneurship Leadership) (Masters to Doctorate)

Illinois State University

Online Doctorate of Education in Special Education (Masters to Doctorate)

Online Ed.D. in Educational Administration and Foundations - P-12 Administration (Masters to Doctorate)

National Louis University

Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership (Masters to Doctorate)

Online Ed.D. in Teaching and Learning - Postsecondary Teaching and Instructional Leadership (Masters to Doctorate)

Northern Illinois University

Online Ed.D. in Community College Leadership (Masters to Doctorate)

Olivet Nazarene University

Online Ed.D. in Ethical Leadership (Masters to Doctorate)

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Online Ed.D. in Educational Psychology and Technology (with Concentrations in Higher Education Learning and Technology, K-12 Education Learning and Technology, and Instructional Design) (Masters to Doctorate)

University of Illinois

Online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership (with Concentrations in Diversity and Equity in Education, Global Studies in Education, Human Resource Development, International Education Administration & Leadership, Learning Design and Leadership, and Learning Design and Leadership: Technology Specialist) (Masters to Doctorate)

University of St. Francis

Online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership - Leadership, Learning, and Stewardship (Masters to Doctorate)

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Higher Education

Creating scholar-practitioners to be agents of change.

The Jesuit tenet of  cura personalis  - care for the whole person - is the cornerstone of our program. The individual attention from our faculty means opportunities from research to applied experience for our students. Our programs help promote our graduates in the next phase of their careers.

We teach how to apply social justice principles across all educational experiences. And we believe diverse representation begins with us. We are the only program in the country where 100% of our faculty are persons of color. Our graduates often land in student affairs or development positions, as well as community-based organizations. 

Degrees Offered:

Loyola University Chicago's EdD in Higher Education will prepare you for executive-level leadership in higher education institutions.

By the numbers

Among all schools of education in illinois, graduate employment rate at graduation, black, indigenous, people of color (bipoc) students.

Leading with Music

Loyola alumna Ayanna Williams is on a mission to make high-quality performing arts education accessible to all children. She plans to immerse herself in music education in a way that benefits students and the community and is excited about the future. "I’ll use my musical abilities to catapult me into the next purpose and the next after that.” She sees herself as a lifelong learner and predicts that she will always keep growing and evolving. With music being all around us, her options are endless.

Online Higher Ed Ph.D. Program

• Past Cohorts were comprised of students from all over the state.
• The Higher Education Ph.D. Doctoral Cohort is held on campus for individuals currently working in colleges, universities, and higher education agencies.
• Each class either meets 4 times a semester on a Friday or Saturday or one day per week on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Wednesdays.
• Eligibility is limited toprofessionals working in higher education institutions or related agencies.
• For more informationcontact Dr. Mohamed Nur-Awaleh , 342 DeGarmo Hall, (309) 438-5155

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

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

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

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

What is a PhD in Higher Education Administration?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Featured Courses

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

PhD in Higher Education Online Degree Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

Potential Career Options

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

Degree Options for the PhD in Higher Education Administration

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

Assessment and Evaluation

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

View the  Degree Completion Plan .

Educational Leadership

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

Student Affairs

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

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

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

Admission requirements.

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

Preliminary Acceptance

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

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

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

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

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

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Lynchburg, VA 24515

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

Who May Qualify?

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

Military Tuition Discount

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

Frequently Asked Questions About the PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree

Is a phd in higher education administration worth it.

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

Should I get a PhD in Higher Education Administration?

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

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

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

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

What can you do with a PhD in Higher Education?

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

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

Inner Navigation

• What Will You Study?
• Potential Careers
• Specializations
• Tuition & Aid
• Admission Information

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