Educational Leadership

 

Educational Leadership Program Information

Doctorate of Education

 

Curriculum Accreditation

 

This doctoral program emphasizes using theory to improve practice through research and advanced scholarship. The program is designed for a person who plans to work in the field primarily as a practitioner and who is interested in the following: educational research in settings such as a school district or educational institution, developing continued leadership in education, and policy-making roles.

  • Students in this program study critical analysis of issues in education, leadership theory, and leadership as reflective practice, which will culminate in a professional dissertation.
  • Our EdD in Educational Leadership program is designed with guidance from educational professionals and is constantly updated to align with leadership and educational standards.

Starting in Fall 2025, this program will offer doctoral students two scholarly pathways to complete their Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership. Students can choose between a traditional dissertation pathway and a doctoral capstone pathway.

  • The traditional dissertation pathway will include the successful completion of a five-chapter, high-quality academic research document that will contribute to the field of study. 
  • The doctoral capstone pathway will include a completed scholarly deliverable that seeks to improve a relevant real-world issue. 

All students will complete the formal proposal process and successful proposal defense before beginning their desired pathway.  

The Dissertation Pathway is a great fit for industry professionals who would like to contribute to the field of research in education and may have aspirations of working in higher education.  Students will complete a traditional five-chapter research document that includes the use of qualitative or quantitative research methods to address a societal issue in education. 

The Doctoral Capstone Pathway is a great fit for those currently in the K-12 setting looking to conduct action research typically in an area that needs to be improved. Students will identify an area of improvement, design the program or process to initiate the improvement, and then evaluate the results. The pathway includes a formal presentation of the action research and results.  

The most important decision is to determine the type of research that is of most interest.  Students will be able to work with their instructors, advisors, committee members, and the program director to find the right fit for their future aspirations.

Program Outcomes

  • Incorporate organizational theory and research to practice.
  • Examine critical issues in policy and practice within complex and dynamic organizations.
  • Analyze data to uncover relationships leading to improved practice.
  • Reflect on decisions leading to strategic organizational change.
  • Emphasize equity through flexibility and innovation.
  • Manage institutional resources (human and financial) ethically.
  • Design and complete literature-based research.
  • Develop and present peer reviewable publishable research.

 

Educational Leadership (EdD) Program

Select an item below for more information.

Program Waiver / Handbook

Not applicable to this program. 

 

Program Mission & Outcomes

 

Educational Leadership (EdD) Program Outcomes

  1. Graduates will demonstrate effective leadership skills in educational settings, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
  2. Graduates will conduct and apply rigorous qualitative and quantitative research methods to address educational challenges and inform decision-making.
  3. Graduates will analyze and evaluate educational policies, practices, and reforms to advocate for equity and social justice in education.
  4. Graduates will develop and implement strategic plans that enhance educational effectiveness and institutional improvement.
  5. Graduates will curriculum Development: Design and assess innovative curricula that respond to diverse learner needs and promote student success.
  6. Graduates will exhibit ethical decision-making and integrity in educational leadership roles, fostering a culture of trust and accountability.
  7. Graduates will engage stakeholders, including families and communities, to build partnerships that support student learning and school improvement.
  8. Graduates will utilize data to inform practice, assess student outcomes, and drive continuous improvement in educational settings.
  9. Graduates will lead and manage change initiatives that promote innovation and adaptability within educational organizations.
  10. Graduates will understand and appreciate diverse educational systems and practices in a global context, preparing leaders for an interconnected world.

Effective: October 2024

Baker College Mission and Vision

 

Student Learning Outcomes

Academic Plan

Background Check Requirements

No Criminal Background Check required.  

 

Additional Program Information and FAQ's

Please see your Program Director for additional program information.

 

Library Resources

Visit the Baker College Research Guide page for library research resources for this program.

For additional Library and Learning Support Services, visit our Academic Resource Center.

 

Clinical / Work Experience Information

No work experience required.

Do you need Health Insurance coverage?  If yes, please visit the Healthcare.gov marketplace site.

 

Career Readiness

Visit the Career Readiness page for more information and resources on preparing for your future career.

For job search assistance, visit the Handshake information page.