phd leadership florida

The Ph.D. program in educational leadership is designed as a non-traditional program to insure the academic success of qualified individuals who are interested in serving in rural and urban educational environments. The department admits a cohort of candidates in the fall semester (August) of each year. Candidates complete the course work in this full-time program in two years (6 semesters). Candidacy is attained upon passing the comprehensive examination during semester 7. Upon passing the comprehensive examination, candidates may register for dissertation hours. Because of the developmental focus of this program, transfer credits are not accepted.

This Ph.D. program is based upon the cohort model with a transformational leader philosophical foundation. Inter-and intra-personal developments are program foci, and immersion in cultural and diversity phenomena is emphasized. Attention to the development of the exemplary professional and scholar are important as evidenced in the emphasis placed upon theoretical content and research methods.

The Ph.D. program in educational leadership is an intensive learning experience. The curriculum is organized around the premise that effective leadership requires an understanding of multiple human contexts and the ability to use technical competence and administrative skills, combined with personal understanding and commitment.

Graduates of this doctoral program pursue leadership career opportunities in educational settings and organizations; PK-20 institutions and organizations involved with local, state, national and international education agendas. The program provides professionals with theoretical bases and practical understandings that enable them to be transformational leaders, effective change agents and successful program managers, particularly in schools, higher education and agencies that serve the needs of minority and at-risk populations.

 The percentage of graduates of this program substantially exceeds the national average for graduates of doctoral programs in the United States of America. The rigor and design of the program coupled with faculty commitment and candidates’ behavior contribute to this graduation rate.

Applications for admission into the Ph.D. program in Educational Leadership should be submitted by February 15 of each year to:

The Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling Florida A&M University College of Education Gore, C Education Complex, Bldg. C, Room 124 501 Orr Drive Tallahassee, FL 32307

Applicants must have completed a master’s degree in an educationally related area from an accredited college or university in order to be considered for admission to the Ph.D. program in Educational Leadership. Admission decisions will be made spring semester of each academic year with written notification to accepted applicants in that term.

Submission of a completed application does not guarantee admission. Applications are evaluated based upon a calculated formula. For applicants who wish to apply for fellowships or assistantships, financial aid paperwork must be submitted as soon after admission into the program as possible.

Applicant must submit the following information to the School of Graduate Studies and Research:

• A completed graduate admission application with $30 non-refundable application- processing fee. FAMU graduates and former students must complete Readmission form (Subject to change by FAMU).
• Official copies of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts as well as transcripts for work completed in post-secondary institutions for which no degrees were awarded.
• An official copy of results of the Graduate Record Examination (taken within the last five years).

Please submit items 1-3 by February 15th for admission consideration fall semester to:

The School of Graduate Studies and Research Florida A&M University 469 Tucker Hall Tallahassee, Florida 32307-4900

Applicants must submit the following information to the Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling chair:

• A current resume.
• Three letters of reference from professionals who can assess the applicant’s ability to succeed in a doctoral program. Applicants must request these and include them as part of their application packet.
• A statement of professional goals presented as a narrative of 1000 words or less that describes the applicant’s educational expectations, career aspirations, level of skills, and any special qualifications or experiences.
• Copies of teaching or other professional certificates. A teaching certificate IS NOT required for admission to this program.
• Samples of any published work completed by the applicant.

Please mail all items 4 through 8 to the following address by February15 for admissions consideration for the following fall semester:

Department of Educational Leadership & Counseling Attn: Educational Leadership Chairperson Florida A&M University College of Education 501 Orr Dr. Gore Education Complex, Building C, Rm. 124 Tallahassee, FL 32307-4900

Curriculum Guide

The curriculum for the doctoral program is organized around the premise that effective leadership requires an understanding of the social context, technical competence, managerial skills, and personal understanding and commitment. The courses that constitute the curriculum are organized into four core areas:

Candidate complete at least 54 semester hours of course work as designated by the Program faculty. Course work is determined for each admitted Cohort.

*** Course requirements are subject to change in accordance with state and federal mandates and other factors.

The total number of semester hours varies according to each candidate’s progression in the program. Candidates are full-time and enroll for 9 hours each semester including summers.

Course of Study

Individuals selected for this Ph.D. program are members of a cohort and enroll in the same courses each semester. The program faculty determines the specific courses for each cohort from an approved course list. In each course, candidates are urged to focus on problem-centered learning experiences, critical thinking, research particularly in their specific areas of interest, and their research and presentation competencies and endeavors. The applicants must clearly demonstrate ethical behavior, mature judgment, and responsibility for themselves, their work ethics, and their assignment completion at a high level of proficiency once admitted to this Ph.D. program.

The program is designed as an intensive learning experience. Students are enrolled full time in three courses (9 semester hours) each semester including summers and complete 54 credit hours of course work. In addition to the course work, students will complete a minimum of 15 hours of dissertation semester hours. The minimum total of 69 semester hours is required for program completion. The areas encompassed by the coursework include inter-and intra-personal development, communication, social foundations, statistics and research methods, organizational theory, management and leadership, and technological applications in research and leadership. Cohort participants enroll in courses as a group. Within each course, students are encouraged to focus the problem-centered learning experiences on their specific area of interest.

Graduation Requirements

The requirements for graduation from the Ph.D. program in educational leadership are: 1. The successful completion of a minimum of 18 courses and a minimum of 15 dissertation credit hours in the leadership, research, professional and specialty cores. 2. A minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average in all course work. No grade of “C” or below will be accepted toward credit in the Ph.D. program and only two classes in which a grade of “C” or below must be repeated. 3. Submission of a TaskStream folio with specific graded artifacts for each course in the doctoral sequence. 4. Evidence of successful integration of program content through the successful completion of the doctoral comprehensive examination and the successful defense of the proposal and dissertation. 5. The submission of the dissertation approved by Ph. D. program coordinator, department chair, dean of the college of education, and dean, graduate studies and research. Copies of the dissertation have to be made on 24-lb acid free dissertation paper and submitted to the School of Graduate Studies and Research with the binding fee and with a statement to the Department of Educational Leadership chair from the dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research that the dissertation and fees have been submitted before a student may participate in graduation. A bound copy must be provided to the dissertation committee chair, the Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling, dean of the College of Education, dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research, and the FAMU library, and all copies desired by the candidate. No candidate may graduate or participate in graduation activities whose dissertation has not been submitted to the School of Graduate Studies and Research for binding and evidence of such has been provided to the coordinator of the Ph.D. in educational leadership.

Note: Dissertation credit hours may add to the minimum number of semester hours required for completion of the doctoral degree

Common Professional Core

• EDA 6061 Effective School Organizations (3)
• EDA 6064 Organizational Behavior in Educational Settings (3)
• EDA 6199 Intn’l Per Of Edu Leadership
• EDA 6213 Culturally Revelant Leadership
• EDA 6215 School And Community Relations (3)
• EDA 6216 Leadership & Communication Technologies In Teaching/learning Organizations (3)
• EDA 7062 Diagnosing & Creating Effective Organizations (3)
• EDA 7967 Comprehensive Examination
• EDA 7980 Dissertation (variable 1-6)

Research Core

• EDA 6421 Advanced Research Methods (3)
• EDA 7405 Quantitative Research Methods
• EDA 7406 Quant Research Method II
• EDA 7415 Qualitative Research Design
• EDA 7935 Res Proposal Seminar
• EDA 6191 Race, Class, And Gender: Policy Issues In Leadership (3)
• EDA 6278 Self & Interpersonal Contexts In Teaching/learning Organizations (3)
• EDA 7220 Personnel Issues In Adult Education Enterprises (3)
• EDA 7224 Organizational Development And Human Resources (3)
• EDA 7233 Legal Issue In Educational Policy (3)
• EDA 7280 Curriculum & Public Policy (3)
• EDA 6289 Polit & Pol-mak Lo/g

Specialty Core

• EDA 6240 Sch Fin & Educ Polic
• EDA 6260 Facilities & Other Auxiliary Services (3)
• EDH 6635 Overview Of Higher Education Administration (3)
• EDH 7307 Curriculum, Instruction And Distance Learning In Higher Education (3)
• EDA 7905 Directed Individual Study (3)
• EDA 7930 Special Topics In Leadership (3)

Educational Leadership (EdD)

Program at a glance.

• In State Tuition
• Out of State Tuition

Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.

The Educational Leadership EdD program is designed to prepare educators for leadership positions at all levels of educational administration from PK-12 to higher education, as well as leadership positions in various educational agencies or organizations. As well, the program prepares students for positions in teaching and research. As a professional program, studies are flexible and diverse, allowing for individual needs to be met. While a thorough knowledge of the field of educational leadership is expected of all doctoral students, individuals will also gain expertise in at least one area of specialization. Specialization knowledge is obtained through course work, independent and directed studies, research, and field experiences. Educational Leadership doctoral programs are designed to broaden administrative knowledge and skills of practicing professionals.

The Higher Education track is appropriate for students who are committed to advancing their leadership capabilities in college and university settings. The Program of Study has been designed to broaden the administrative knowledge and skills of higher education professionals who bring to the program a prior discipline specialization. Students admitted to the program are typically employed in teaching, research and administrative positions in universities, colleges, community colleges and education related institutions and organizations. The Higher Education track requires completion of a dissertation.

The Executive track in Educational Leadership EdD . The Executive EdD is appropriate for students who are committed to advancing their leadership opportunities and capabilities in PK-12 and other organizational settings. Students admitted to the program are typically employed in teaching and administrative positions in elementary and secondary schools, as well as other educational agencies and organizations. Focus areas include: political and organizational theory, leadership, systems theory, planning and evaluation, school law and finance, data-based decision making, communications, instructional leadership, human resource management, program analysis and evaluation. Educational Leadership certification is not included in this program.

Program Tracks/Options

• Higher Education
• Executive Track

University of Central Florida Colleges

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FSU | Distance@FSU

Distance@FSU

Educational leadership & policy, edd.

The online EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy is FSU's first online doctoral program. The program prepares mid-career education leaders and scholarly practitioners to be knowledgeable about organizational systems, actively engaged in research to improve policy and practice in their own contexts, and attuned to issues of equity. If you're a working professional with a master's degree and relevant professional experience, this program is for you. You'll work with premier faculty and develop the professional and analytical skills needed to address the most pressing problems in education.

Available Majors

• Educational Leadership/Administration

Program Website

University Accreditation:  Florida State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees. Florida State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels.

Questions about the accreditation of Florida State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website ( www.sacscoc.org ).

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Edd in educational leadership and policy studies.

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies is designed for students who wish to pursue leadership roles in educational institutions. The program of studies prepares students for careers as school superintendents, principals, directors and supervisors; administrators in state, federal and international agencies; professors of educational administration or leadership; and administrators in institutions of higher education.

The curriculum is designed to enable students to become familiar with and utilize effectively both theoretical and technical knowledge. The program of study is multidisciplinary and integrates broad intellectual perspectives into the study and practice of educational leadership and policy studies. 

Applications to the program are being considered for Summer 2021 admission.

Department of Educational Policy Studies 11200 SW 8th Street, ZEB  Miami, FL 33199 Tel: 305-348-2511

University of South Florida

Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

College of Education

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Doctor of philosophy, admission requirements.

To be admitted to the program, you must meet the university's graduate admissions requirements, as well as the specific program requirements .

Admissions Requirements

Success in the PhD program requires students to deeply engage in an area of inquiry, apply excellence in research methods, and develop exceptional writing skills. The program faculty will consider each applicant entirely within the context defined by their personal and professional qualifications.

Applicants meeting the set of initial criteria will be asked to participate in an interview conducted by faculty and complete a timed writing sample that will be scheduled to occur before or after the interview.

Need more information?

For more information about the PhD in Educational Leadership, please contact us. 

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FSU | College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences

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College of education, health, and human sciences, online educational leadership/administration - master's & specialist.

The Educational Leadership/Administration Master’s (MS) & Specialist (EdS) degrees are state-accredited programs for Florida Educators interested in certification to become assistant principals or other administrative leadership positions in your district.

Students in the FSU Educational Leadership/Administration program develop dynamic, high-performing leadership to renew and improve educational systems. Our program is currently highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report, is state-accredited by the Florida Department of Education, and will prepare you for a rewarding career in educational leadership. Students in our programs also rank #1 in Florida for Florida Educational Leadership Examination (FELE) pass rates.

Completing our State Approved Masters’ or Specialist degree will make you eligible for Level 1 certification in Educational Leadership (all levels). Successful completion of the coursework, field hours, and FELE will meet Florida DOE's Level 1 certification requirements for the assistant principalship and other administration positions in your school district. The Master’s Degree is recommended for individuals with a completed Bachelor’s Degree. The Specialist Degree is recommended and only available to individuals with a completed Master’s degree in a related educational field.

In the Educational Leadership/Administration program, you will gain core professional and theoretical knowledge and demonstrate skills in applied research and leadership practice. The program emphasizes strong academic training, practical content application, and connecting with field experts. Program objectives are drawn from the core content identified from research and theory on educational leadership, and from the collaboration between practitioners and faculty of the department.

Mission Statement Our mission is to prepare a diverse group of equity-driven aspiring leaders who are critical thinkers and cultivate and lead inclusive and collaborative communities of educators to address systemwide educational issues for continuous improvement of teaching and learning.

Program Eligibility:

• At least two years of full-time PK-12 classroom teaching experience in a Florida school.
• A current Florida Professional Educator Teaching Certificate K-12.
• Two most recent summative performance evaluations that include Instructional Practice and Student Performance measures.
• Current employment in a Florida school or Florida school district.

Applicants in year 2+ of their teaching certification who do not hold a professional certificate and are still interested in the program should contact the Graduate Coordinator, Allison Young ( [email protected] ), and Program Director, Dr. Kevin Forehand ( [email protected] ), for eligibility guidance.

Admissions Deadlines

SPRING  - October 1 SUMMER  - March 1 FALL  - June 1

Admission Requirements

Professional experience.

Applicants must have the following experience. Applicants not meeting the criteria below will be ineligible for the program.

• Two Most Recent Summative Performance Evaluations with Instructional Practice and Student Growth

Applicants in year 2+ of their teaching certification who do not hold a professional certificate and who are interested in the program should contact the Graduate Coordinator, Allison Young ( [email protected] ), and Program Director, Dr. Kevin Forehand ( [email protected] ), for eligibility guidance.

Degrees & GPA

Master’s Program : An earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or a comparable degree from an international institution, with a minimum 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) grade point average (GPA) in Upper-Division coursework attempted (Last 60 hours).

Specialist's Program : An earned graduate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or a comparable degree from an international institution, with a minimum 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) grade point average (GPA).

Please upload your most recent Resume/CV including your current employment. Your resume should show at least two years of full-time PK-12 classroom teaching experience in a Florida school.

Professional Educator Teaching Certificate K-12

Submit your Florida Educators Teachers Certificate through the portal.

Performance Evaluations on Instructional Expertise

Applicants must submit their two most recent, completed, summative performance evaluations in a Florida public school setting (including charter schools), per Section 1012.34, F.S., obtained during the last four years that document student growth and “Effective” or “Highly Effective” ratings on Performance of Students and Instructional practice under the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices (FEAPS) adopted by the State Board of Education. 

Summative Performance Evaluations must be complete and include the following:

• Obtained in the last 4 years
• Final overall rating
• All instructional practice ratings
• Student growth measure for the entire academic year
• Effective or Higher Rating on Student Performance & Instructional practice:

Student performance evaluations for teachers must include their students' growth or achievement data. For non-teaching school administrators, evaluations must include data on the students attending the school.

Instructional Practice evaluations for teachers must include indicators based on each FEAPS. For non-teaching school administrators, evaluation criteria must be based upon indicators of the FEAPS and may include specific job expectations related to student support.

Important Information & FAQs

• Classroom observations (formal or informal) do NOT meet the same criteria as evaluations under the FEAPS and cannot be accepted and should not be submitted.
• If your most recent evaluation will not be complete with an overall final rating by the admissions deadline but you have additional complete evaluations with effective or highly effective ratings within the last four years, you can submit those.
• If you recently completed your second year of teaching but your evaluation will not be complete by the admissions deadline, you will not be eligible for that admit term. You may apply for the following admit term once your evaluation is complete.

Principal Leadership Recommendation

The Principal Leadership Recommender Form must be completed by your current school Principal, who has evaluated your most recent teaching or performance and has knowledge of your demonstrated critical leadership skills, dispositions, and leadership potential.

Step 1:  Submit an FSU application through the portal and upload your CV/Resume showing current employment. This is required before submitting the Principal Leadership Recommender Form.

Step 2:   Using the DocuSign link below, you will fill out your name, as well as the name and email of the Principal who will complete the form. Once this is complete, you will click “Begin Signing”. On the next page, you will enter your application number and hit “Finish”.  The form will then be sent to the Principal’s email you provided to complete the form. When the Principal completes their portion of the form, a final copy will be sent to the Academic Specialist to be uploaded to your application portal and marked complete.

The form must be filled out and signed electronically through DocuSign.  Handwritten copies will not be accepted.

DocuSign Link: Principal Leadership Recommender Form Link or https://bit.ly/4c5M9QE

Statement of Purpose

(12 pt. font, Single-spaced, Limit of 2 pages) : Describe your aptitude and interest in graduate study in educational leadership, including your preparation for this field and future career goals. Please specify why FSU is a good intellectual and professional fit for you.

Essay Question (Research Statement)

(12 pt. font, Single-spaced, Limit of 1 page) : From your professional work experience, describe and analyze one situation that involved a dilemma related to school leadership and how you demonstrated critical leadership skills and dispositions in response to this dilemma.

Letters of Recommendation

A total of two Letters of Recommendation must be submitted. Both letters should be from individuals who can describe your ability to meet the graduate level of rigor and expectations in coursework, writing and speaking skills, work ethic, and completing field experiences.

• Letters from friends or family will not be considered. Letters should be professional, typed on letterhead, and have a signature.
• Up to 5 letters of recommendation will be reviewed.
• Upon entering the recommender’s email address, the application system will send instructions to your recommender for uploading letters.

GRE Test Scores are Currently WAIVED for Master's and Specialist's degree applicants. Applicants with a competitive GRE score may continue to submit scores. If you do not submit scores, the item will be waived on the application checklist.

Transcripts

Please see the “Transcript Requirement” section on The Graduate School website for detailed information and submission instructions: https://gradschool.fsu.edu/admissions/graduate-admissions

• Official Transcripts : Official transcripts are ONLY required for admitted students & applicants who require SpanTran evaluations of International Transcripts.
• Unofficial Transcripts : Unofficial transcripts are required for your application to be reviewed. Please submit ALL unofficial transcripts from each College and/or University attended. FSU only allows for application review with unofficial transcripts from U.S. institutions. For applicants with transcripts from a non-U.S. institution, a credential evaluation must be received before the application can be reviewed. *Official transcripts on the application checklist will show a red “X” until they are submitted. Applicants who have submitted all required documents and are only missing official transcripts are still considered complete and will be reviewed.
• International Transcript Requirements :  FSU requires a course-by-course credential evaluation for Fall 2024 applicants and beyond who have degrees from a non-U.S. institution. International and domestic applicants with degrees earned from international institutions must submit their official transcripts through a NACES approved evaluator for transcripts from a non-U.S. institution. SpanTran has created a custom application for FSU to ensure you select the right kind of evaluation at a discounted rate. Please see the “Transcript Requirements” section of the Graduate School website for detailed information. https://gradschool.fsu.edu/admissions/graduate-admissions

English Language Proficiency Test Scores

Official English Language Proficiency results are required of all international applicants whose native language is not English. You can find the approved tests and minimum scores required here under the “English Language Proficiency” section: https://gradschool.fsu.edu/admissions/international-admissions

• Self-Reported Scores Although official scores are required, most departments will begin reviewing your application with self-reported scores while waiting for the official scores to arrive. You can self-report your scores on your Online Status Page after you submit your application. 
• Waiving English Language Proficiency The English Language Proficiency requirement can be waived at the University level for applicants who have earned a BA or higher in the US or an English-speaking country. *A variety of countries are exempt from the English language proficiency requirement.

PDF – Admission & Application Requirements MS & EdS

How to Apply

The FSU application is a 2-step process. You must first submit your online application. Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an email with information to access your Application Status Page. The Status Page is where you will pay your application fee, add recommenders to your application, and upload application materials.

Please select the applicable fields when applying:

Campus/Location = Online/Distance Learning Master’s (M.S.) Program = Educational Leadership/Administration – MS – EH  Specialist (Ed.S.) Program = Educational Leadership/Administration – EdS – EH

• Apply Now - International Students

Degree Requirements

• Online Educational Leadership program leading to Florida Educational Leadership Certification (M.S. and Ed.S.)

Tuition & Aid

Tuition & Fees : Traditional Academic Programs  Distance Learning

FAFSA : Federal Student Financial Aid

Scholarships : Scholarship opportunities for the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences

FSU Graduate School Funding & Awards : Awards, Grants, Fellowships

Educational Leadership and Policy Faculty

Click here to learn more about our Educational Leadership and Policy faculty.

Career Opportunities

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job summary and outlook for elementary, middle, and high school principals predicts a 7.9% increase through 2026, creating 21,200 new jobs in this field. As of 2019, the median pay for this administration role is $95,310 a year. The job field for postsecondary education administrators is expected to increase by 10.1%, equating to 15,700 new jobs by 2026. The median pay for this role is $94,340.

The career paths for graduates in our Educational Leadership & Administration program are endless. A graduate can start in front of the college classroom and gain tenure or walk through the halls of elementary or secondary school guiding teachers in the education of our country’s youth.

Admissions Contact

Online Masters Degree (MS) – Allison Young Online Specialist Degree (Ed.S.) – Allison Young

I do not teach in Florida; I teach in another US State. Am I eligible for the program? 

You would not be eligible for the program. The MS/EdS in Educational Leadership/Administration is a state-approved program whose guidelines require at least 2 years of teaching in Florida schools before becoming eligible for an assistant principal position responsible for leading Florida teachers.   

I have taught in Florida for 1 year and in another US state for multiple years; am I eligible for the program?  

You would not be eligible for the program. The MS/EdS in Educational Leadership/Administration is a state-approved program whose guidelines require at least 2 years of teaching in Florida schools before becoming eligible for an assistant principal position responsible for leading Florida teachers. You would be eligible for the program once you complete your second year of teaching in Florida.  

Why are 2 years of teaching in Florida required to qualify for this program?  

There are guidelines for State-accredited programs for leadership preparation in public schools. In Florida, school leaders must have taught in Florida, under Florida curriculum standards for at least two years before becoming eligible for an assistant principal position. Both international and domestic students must have met this requirement to be eligible for admission into our state-accredited program based upon those policies.  

I have a temporary teaching certificate, am I eligible for the program? 

Applicants with a temporary teaching certificate and less than 2 years of teaching experience would not be eligible for the program.

Can the Master’s or Specialist program be completed in less than two years?  

No, all state-approved programs are 2 years. All students within our program are full-time educators and are admitted in cohorts each semester. Students take 6 credit hours of coursework each semester to complete all state certification requirements in 6 semesters.  

What type of leadership positions in my district does this program qualify me for? 

Educational Leadership certification is required specifically for assistant principals and principals. For other leadership positions, districts create internal criteria for various leadership positions open to candidates.

I am not eligible for this program and do not require certification. I am still interested in Educational Leadership, what are my other Degree options at FSU? 

Additional programs to consider within Educational Leadership and Policy Studies:

Online - Educational Leadership/Administration EdD (Doctoral) Online - Education Policy & Evaluation Masters On Campus - Education Policy & Evaluation Masters & PhD On Campus – Higher Education Masters & PhD

We encourage you to visit our graduate programs website and review the many programs the College offers!

I am a substitute teacher, am I eligible for the Program?

Unfortunately, you would not be eligible for the program. Substitute or permanent substitute teaching does not qualify as full-time certified teaching. Substitute teaching certificates are district-based credentials and are not the same as Florida-certified teaching, which includes an end of year teacher evaluation with student growth and instructional practice scores.

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Educational Leadership Program

We offer a program that will enable graduates to pursue leadership career opportunities in educational settings and organizations involved with education-related issues. Students are equipped with theoretical and practical knowledge that will make them into professional effective change agents, and successful program managers, particularly in schools and agencies that serve the needs of minority and at-risk populations.

This unique program is organized in the cohort format based upon the constructivist philosophical foundation. Interpersonal and intrapersonal development, as well as cultural considerations, are identified as elements essential to effective leadership, and are emphasized in the doctoral program. We also place a high priority on acquiring theoretical and methodological content.

Our Educational Leadership Programs

The Masters Program

Offers a planned sequence of experiences designed to develop leadership skills essential to the improvement of administration and supervision in schools, and other educational entities

The Ph.D. Program

Graduates of the doctoral program pursue leadership career opportunities in educational settings; PK-20 institutions and organizations involved with local, state, and national education agendas. 

"A leader. . .is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind." Nelson Mandela South African President and Anti-Apartheid Revolutionary

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Funnel your ideas and passions for learning by diving into new research to make a difference in education on a societal and academic level..

The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD-EL) from Florida Southern prepares teachers and administrators to grow both intellectually and professionally for professional advancement in the field of education.

The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD EL) prepares P-12 teachers and administrators to advance professionally and grow intellectually. The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program provides individuals opportunities to increase their knowledge and build skills to become exceptional leaders in P-12 administration, policy development, and teaching and pedagogical practices. Program students engage in research and collaborative projects, providing a rigorous academic program geared toward enriching leadership, management, and program planning knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Top Reasons

With a requirement of students possessing a Master of Education or full professional teaching certificate, this program focuses on the P-12 sector and learner.

Outstanding Faculty

Composed of credentialed professors and scholars whose research and practitioner experience delve straight into today’s most complex and important issues in education.  These faculty members are attentive, available, and committed to your academic success.

Nationally Recognized

Florida Southern College ranked as the No. 1 Regional College in the state of Florida by the prestigious college guidebook U.S. News & World Report .

Engaged Learning

You will experience unparalleled robust, active, and hands-on faculty-led collaborative projects that provide a rigorous academic program geared toward enriching your leadership, management, and motivational abilities.

Florida Southern College is accredited by the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges

Meet Our Mocs

Dr. amy weingarth, lacey jurnigan, elizabeth russum, beth livesay, monifia neal, irene crumbacker, small classes.

Coursework is made up of twelve classes of 4 credits each. Classes are offered face-to-face and online. There are seven face-to-face classes and five online classes. Most classes are made up of cohort members of less than 15 class members. When ready to move to dissertation credits, all students are required to complete a concept paper. Coursework prepares students with a strong academic foundation for writing this concept paper. The concept paper is rigorous paper students are required to complete to show competency in skills needed to being dissertation work. A School of Education committee does a blind review of each student’s concept paper looking for what theories contribute to a student’s area of interest. They are also looking for valid methodologies that are used and what applications of theory and research that can assist tin working with problems in a certain area identified by the student. Finally, the last step in the concept paper is to help in identifying a good fit between the student’s research topic and a chair for the doctoral student.

Cohort Groups

Students move with an established cohort group during the 12 hours of doctoral coursework. Each assignment has been vetted by professional scholar-practitioners to deliver the knowledge, content, and credible evidence-based learning required for successful alignment. Being linked to members in a cohort group serve to build collaboration among student to student and serve as a support group for one another in their specialized fields.

The Passion to  Get Ahead

Dr. Howard Hepburn '20, Instructional Superintendent, School District of Palm Beach County, explains why Florida Southern was the right school for him to advance his passion for education and professional goals.

Featured Faculty

Caitlin byrne, program details, admission requirements.

• An earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education as verified by an official transcript from the conferring institution
• An earned graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education as verified by an official transcript from the conferring institution
• Earned grade point average of 3.0 in accredited master’s degree program*
• How will the pursuit of a doctoral degree help you in achieving your personal and professional goals?
• Why are you pursuing a doctoral degree at Florida Southern College?
• Describe any related research experience, professional presentations, or major projects you have completed
• Recommendation Form or Letter of Reference
• Current Résumé
• Valid Florida Professional Teaching Certificate or an earned Master of Education
• Official Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores taken within last five years**
• Personal Interview

* If you do not have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA from your graduate degree, please submit official Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score.

** If you have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA from your graduate degree, then you meet the requirements for a Graduate Record Exam (GRE) exemption.

Additional International Requirements

• Official Translated Transcripts With Course By Course Evaluation**
• Bank Letter Verifying Funds of Sponsor***
• Sponsor's Guarantee Form
• Valid Passport
• Official TOEFL/IELTS Score****

** SpanTran (discount available), Academic Evaluation Services, Inc. , Josef Silny , or World Education Services or another similar approved transcript evaluation agency.

*** A bank letter is a written statement on bank letterhead and signed by a bank official.

**** Must have completed an English language training program or at least one year at an English speaking institution to waive the TOEFL/IELTS testing requirement.

Course Delivery

A combination of online and in-class courses are offered to meet the needs of your busy schedule. By enrolling in our EdD full-time, you will complete all of your coursework in two years, plus a dissertation.

Program Costs

$250 Non-Refundable Enrollment Deposit (Upon acceptance and applied toward your first semester tuition balance)

Related Materials

What is the program delivery?

Our program uses a cohort model wherein students move through the program with the same group of students throughout the two years of coursework. Courses are delivered via a hybrid model where a typical semester is comprised of one face-to-face class typically meeting every other Saturday (8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.) and one online class each semester. Student’s first summer term is the only term that students enroll simultaneously in two in-person courses. This allows the opportunity to make meaningful connections with other students in your cohort. One class meets on alternate Saturdays (8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.) and the other meets on alternate Mondays and Wednesdays (5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.).

What are the hours of the Saturday classes?

Classes are scheduled every other Saturday in the Fall and Spring from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In the Summer, classes are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM over seven Saturdays for during the 12-week C term.

Is financial aid available?

Students seeking financial aid should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility. 

What is the cost of textbooks?

Textbook costs vary each semester, by course, and by professor.

How many classes is considered full time?

At the doctoral level, you are considered full time when you are enrolled in 8 credit hours.

Adult & Grad Admissions

Education Information Session

Sep 28 10:00 am.

Join us for an on-campus information session tailored for prospective students considering adult undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs at the School of Education, Florida Southern College. This event aims to offer insights into our diverse education programs and to foster connections with our esteemed faculty members.

Education Virtual Information Session

Oct 10 6:00 pm.

Florida Southern College's School of Education offers an online webinar series designed for prospective students exploring adult undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs. These webinars feature comprehensive insights into our education programs, including direct engagement with program directors, allowing prospective students to connect directly with faculty members.

Location: Online

AG Online Education Student Panel

Nov 7 6:00 pm.

An online webinar for prospective graduate and doctoral students to learn more about Florida Southern College's School of Education. This event is designed to provide an opportunity to connect with faculty and hear testimonials from current students in our programs.

Dec 4 5:00 PM

Program contact.

Admission Counselor and Advisor

 863.680.4914

 863.250.4194

Associate Provost for Student Success

Assistant Professor of Education

917 Johnson Avenue

 863.680.4255

Dean of Education

Nina B. Hollis Endowed Chair of Education

Associate Professor of Education

Carol J. Barnett / Curry Education Office - 113

 863.680.4172

Education Students Making Waves at FERA

Students excel among educational researchers with impactful posters and presentations.

Q&A With Dr. Scott Hebert

FSC Brings Home Another Award at Annual FERA Meeting

Sarah Zeinemann ’27 won the Outstanding Graduate Student Poster Award

FSC Education Doctoral Students Dive Into Research Marathon

The Florida Southern College School of Education and the Roux Library hosted the Spring 2022...

Graduate, Tax Leadership Development Program 2025

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• Tax Accounting & Reporting
• Transfer Pricing
• Strategic and M&A Tax
• Customs & Trade
• Pillar 2 Compliance
• Tax Controversy & Planning
• Graduates and final year students majoring in Finance, Tax, Accounting, Economics or Law.
• Practical experience, such as an internship, in a relevant field.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
• A passion for, and interest in corporate Tax.
• Ability to work under pressure, handling multiple tasks and prioritizing to meet deadlines.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and decision-making skills.
• Flexible, adaptable and geographically mobile.
• Leadership capability - campus or other organization leadership experience.
• Interest in becoming a leader.
• Fast Track Program sponsored by Senior Tax Executives at Aptiv.
• Enhanced Learning & Development experience.
• Structured Mentorship Program.
• The potential to experience one international rotation fully supported by the company subject to availability.
• Close interaction with Tax Executives on complex projects.
• Opportunity to work in an international company with a mission to make the world safer, greener, and more connected.
• Access to all company benefits.

Perks and Benefits

Health and wellness.

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability
• FSA With Employer Contribution
• HSA With Employer Contribution
• Mental Health Benefits

Parental Benefits

• Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave
• Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
• Fertility Benefits
• Adoption Assistance Program
• Family Support Resources
• Adoption Leave

Work Flexibility

• Flexible Work Hours
• Remote Work Opportunities
• Hybrid Work Opportunities

Office Life and Perks

• Commuter Benefits Program
• Casual Dress
• On-Site Cafeteria
• Holiday Events

Vacation and Time Off

• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays
• Personal/Sick Days

Financial and Retirement

• 401(K) With Company Matching
• Performance Bonus
• Relocation Assistance
• Financial Counseling

Professional Development

• Tuition Reimbursement
• Learning and Development Stipend
• Promote From Within
• Mentor Program
• Shadowing Opportunities
• Access to Online Courses
• Lunch and Learns
• Internship Program
• Work Visa Sponsorship
• Leadership Training Program
• Associate or Rotational Training Program

Diversity and Inclusion

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program

Company Videos

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University of Florida

Higher Education Administration

Program information.

The Higher Education Administration program is one of the nation’s premier graduate programs for higher education administration and policy evaluation. Our emphasis remains on the role of research in evaluating policies, informing institutional effectiveness, and creating scholarship that connects both scholars and practitioners through a multidisciplinary approach. Focusing on both the two-year and four-year sectors, our nationally respected Higher Education Administration programs offer a Ph.D. and Ed.D. focused on rigorous scholarship and preparing future higher education faculty members, institutional leaders, policymakers, and researchers. Aided by our innovative and nationally respected faculty, the Higher Education Administration program provides students with the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects and publish work in top journals within higher education, public policy, and postsecondary administration.

Degrees Offered with a Major in Higher Education Administration

• without a concentration
• concentration in Educational Policy

Requirements for these degrees are given in the Graduate Degrees section of this catalog.

Human Development and Organizational Studies in Education Departmental Courses

Higher education administration (PHd)

SLO 1     Knowledge         * Identifies, describes, and explains the substantive body of literature related higher education and the national, state, regional, and institutional contexts in higher education   * Describes and explains the institutional functioning of higher education institutions including issues related to leadership and governance, funding, the role of the government as well as issues pertaining to students, faculty, and administrators   * Identifies and describes major global and national trends affecting higher education   * Identifies and describes the most conventional types of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies applied to the study of higher education

SLO 2     Skills      * Relate and apply major concepts and theories in the literature to specific higher education issues, cases, and settings * To develop skills of analysis, synthesis, research, and communication (verbal and written) concerning issues and topics related to higher education * To write academically according to APA style and to other audiences effectively

SLO 3     Professional Behavior    * Displays ethical behaviors consistent with professional standards related to research and publishing and practice demonstrated through cultural sensitivity, awareness, and empathy      * Abides to expectations and norms of the discipline and profession

Higher education administration (Edd)

SLO 1     Knowledge         * Identifies, describes, and explains the substantive body of literature related to higher education and the national, state, regional, and institutional contexts in higher education   *Describes and explains the institutional functioning of higher education institutions including issues related to leadership and governance, funding, the role of the government as well as issues pertaining to students, faculty, and administrators   *Identifies and describes the major global and national trends affecting higher education   * Identifies and describes the most conventional types of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies applied to the study of higher education

SLO 3     Professional Behavior    * Displays ethical behaviors consistent with professional standards related to research and publishing and practice demonstrated through cultural sensitivity, awareness, and empathy Abides to expectations and norms of the discipline and profession

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