Educational Theory and Practice (EdD)

Program Overview

Our Department of Teaching, Learning and Educational Leadership (TLEL) offers a practitioner-based Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Educational Theory and Practice. The program encourages individuals to become leaders in educational theories and practices and is designed for experienced educators seeking to integrate theory, knowledge, research and practice to increase understanding and improve teaching and learning in a wide range of educational settings and related fields.

The program seeks to provide a broadening experience in the following areas:

  • Reflective professional practice — critical analysis of actions, goals and ethics
  • Instructional leadership — the understandings, skills and dispositions needed for the democratic transformation of schools and related settings
  • Inclusive and multicultural education — the understandings, skills and dispositions needed to promote sensitivity to and affirmation of cultural and other differences among students, teachers, staff and parents
  • Social analysis — the critical assessment of the dominant paradigms, institutional patterns and power inequities that shape education

Within this broadened perspective, specialized study occurs through assignments in core courses, a flexible electives requirement, independent study and dissertation research.

This track can also be paired with the Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership, which is a post-master’s program designed to train future principals and superintendents.

Changing demographics and values inevitably cause us to rethink how our children are educated, and what the best methods are to produce capable and conscientious adults. Research comparing and contrasting modern strategies can help to illuminate new directions and better integrate broader perspectives on learning. Our program focuses on both quantitative and qualitative measures of student success, and considers the historical, philosophical, and practical challenges facing education reform in the modern world.

Degrees Offered

  • EdD in Educational Theory and Practice

Internships, Research Opportunities and More

As a doctoral student your seminar-oriented course of study will provide you enormous opportunity for close interaction with your professors. Members of our faculty have extensive experience in academic leadership positions, while also performing extensive research relating to all aspects of educational theory. Teaching and research assistantship opportunities will be available to you as you progress through the program, and your dissertation project will demonstrate the skills you have developed in an applied context. Elective courses will allow ample opportunity for you to individualize your course of study to better reflect your personal career goals.

The EdD program includes 7 mandatory core courses and 5 electives. Field placement is not a program requirement, but may be compulsory for some classes. The program seeks to foster constructive dialogue across interdisciplinary areas and research interests. The range of required coursework and a diverse cohort of students promote this broadening program emphasis.

The program culminates in a comprehensive examination that includes a portfolio of work, a critical reflection paper and an oral review. The main purpose is to assess a student’s knowledge of educational theory and practice, as well as the ability to undertake advanced-level dissertation work.

After You Graduate

Alumni teach at institutions around the country, as well as serve in administrative capacities and as educational directors. The program emphasizes a balance of theoretical and applied knowledge, allowing for a wide array of potential careers at all levels of education. The most recent graduating class have enjoyed an 100% placement rate in full-time employment. Graduates of this program have gone on to notable positions at institutions such as Weber State University, Cazenovia College, Georgia College and SUNY Plattsburgh.

Admission Requirements

For more information, visit the Educational Theory and Practice website.