EDPA Ph.D.: Educational Administration (EdAd) Track
Overview
The doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in educational policy and administration with a program track in educational administration (EdAd), administered by the Graduate School and offered by the Department of Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development (OLPD), provides an opportunity for intensive study of the field of education. It is especially suitable for students who wish to pursue careers in policy, research, or college and university teaching. It is also available to students who are interested in careers in school, district, and statewide administration though it is more theory and research oriented than the doctorate of education (Ed.D.) degree which is also offered by OLPD.
EdAd offers coursework and research opportunities for those interested in making a difference in educational systems and settings that involve PreK-12 children and youth. The program is committed to supporting the development of leaders and scholars who work to continuously improve educational quality and effectiveness so that young people graduate from secondary education well prepared to continue their learning and to contribute to their communities. The program promotes understanding of schools as organizations and emphasizes application of knowledge and research to varied contexts of educational practice.
Who enrolls in this program?
Ph.D. students are the future leaders, university faculty members, and
researchers in the field of education. They come to this program from
positions as teachers, school and district administrators, and from
leadership positions in state and private organizations committed to
improving education. The program is selective; it
is limited to 10 students each year. They are selected on the basis of their credentials
and their long-term interest in policy, research, and college and
university teaching. All new students begin in the fall semester.
What will my program look like?
The Ph.D. requires that students take
at least 52 credits of course work. Students who already have a master's
degree, with adviser's approval, can transfer up to 18 semester credits
toward their Ph.D. In addition, 24 semester thesis credits will be
required for the dissertation. Typically, a course meeting once a week
throughout the semester is three credits. Students may complete the
coursework on either a full-time or part-time basis.
How long will my Ph.D. program take?
Going full time, including summers, students often can complete the
required coursework in 2 to 2½ years, at which time they complete
preliminary written and oral examinations. Many are able to complete
their dissertation in another 1 to 2 years. Upon completion of their
dissertation, they take a final oral examination. Doctoral students must
complete all their requirements and receive their degree within five
calendar years after passing their preliminary oral examination.
Contacts
For questions regarding the admissions process, admissions documents, or general information about the program contact:
Dr. Jeremy
Hernandez
Coordinator of graduate studies
Phone: 612-626-9377
Email: herna220@umn.edu
Specific questions regarding course content should be directed to the
program co-coordinators:
Dr. Nicola Alexander
Phone: 612-624-1507
Email: nalexand@umn.edu
Dr.
Ken Dragseth
Phone: 612-626-8647
Email: drags002@umn.edu
Revised April 2012