Educational Administration and Leadership (EdD)

Specialization Learning Outcomes

In addition to the core program learning outcomes , graduates in this specialization will be prepared to:

1. Applies knowledge of current research/trends in education.
2. Effectively communicates with others (e.g., verbal, non-verbal, written, and technology-based).
3. Collaborate with external variety of stakeholders (teachers, families, community) to address the diverse learning needs of students.
4. Manage resources effectively for the betterment of the learning environment.
5. Create an effective learning environment to enhance student learning.
6. Utilize technology to support student learning.
7. Demonstrate cultural competence to encourage a diverse learning environment.
8. Demonstrate positive professional dispositions (professional conduct, professional qualities, communication, and collaboration).
9. Use research-based data to promote student learning.
10. Promotes positive social change in the learning environment.
11. Design research to address educational problems and contribute to the profession.

Degree Requirements

• Professional Development Plan and Program of Study
• Foundation course (5 cr.)
• Research courses (15 cr.)
• Specialization courses (30 cr.)
• Completing the Doctoral Capstone
  • Doctoral support courses (9 cr.)
  • Completing the Doctoral Capstone (5 cr. per term for a minimum of four terms; taken continuously until completion)
• One academic residency

Curriculum

Course Sequence

The recommended course sequence is as follows:

* Students take this course for a minimum of four terms and are continuously enrolled until completion of their doctoral study with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a doctoral study, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the Dissertation Guidebook.

Note on Teacher Licensure or Certification

This program does not lead to teacher licensure or certification. Teachers are advised to contact their individual school districts as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement.

Educational Administration and Leadership for Administrators (EdD)

The purpose of Walden’s EdD in the Educational Administration and Leadership for Administrators program is to prepare skilled scholar practitioners to lead organizations in solving complex problems of practice. This specialization is designed for students who have previously completed a university based principal preparation program, have certification or are eligible for principal certification, and have a minimum of 3 years’ leadership experience. The focus of the capstone will be on problem solving. Students will complete case study dissertations in program evaluation, program implementation, curricular change or development, or policy analysis. These students will focus on a partnership between the student and the district, regional service center, state entity or appropriate professional organization.