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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Leadership

Prepares students for a future in faculty and research positions surrounding K-12 education.

Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership principles discuss subjects.

About this program

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Leadership prepares candidates for faculty and research positions in higher education.

  • Ph.D. candidates receive advanced skill development in leadership, research, and organizational development. 
  • Candidates may also examine leadership from the perspective of other disciplines (i.e., political science, sociology, etc.).
  • Students with a Mississippi AA or AAA administrative license will receive AAAA certification by the Mississippi State Department of Education upon successful completion of the Ph.D. Program.

 

How can the Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership help your career?

The Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership prepares students for advanced administrative practice or advanced support roles in the public or private sector. Graduates from this program have become principals of large schools and superintendents of school districts.

Alumni have also secured great jobs in the public sector, like

  • Faculty positions at universities
  • Research and accountability directors for school districts
  • Human resources or finance officers in school districts
  • Positions in state departments of education

Private sector opportunities include educational consulting, research and policy centers, and professional development.

Read on to learn how the Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership can open up new opportunities for your future. 

On this Page…

    Program Information

    Program Type

    Doctorate Program

    Area of Study

    Education

    Duration

    4 years

    Degree

    Ph.D. in Education

    Program Location

    Oxford

    Emphases

    Education Leadership (K-12)

    Required Credit Hours

    72

    Explore Everything the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Leadership has to Offer

    A Ph.D. in Educational Leadership is more than just a doctoral degree; it is a comprehensive program that prepares individuals for high-level leadership roles within K-12 education.

    Students applying to the Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (K-12) must meet the following requirements. Students must have:

    • Hold a completed master's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education
    • Minimum two years full-time experience working as a certified teacher or administrator
      Have at least 3.0 GPA on all previous graduate work applicable to the doctoral program
    • Exhibit proficient writing skills on Goals Statement. The Goals Statement must include the following:
      • An Introduction/ Academic & Professional Background/ General Research Interests and your Doctoral Goals
      • An essay on a prominent educational issue facing K-12 and consider how you would address this issue.
      • Each section should be no longer than a page and a half.
    • Evidence of leadership potential
    • Three letters of references
    • Successful interview

    To properly complete the application process for admission, students must submit all application materials before the following deadlines:

    • Fall application deadline: June 1
    • Spring application deadline: October 1
    • Summer application deadline: March 1

    Find Courses in Educational Leadership

    Check out some of the key classes you’ll encounter as an Educational Leadership major. Curious about what else is offered? Browse the full catalog of courses.
    Professor of Educational Leadership, Angus Mungal

    We're here to help!

    If you have any questions about the Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, don't hesitate to reach out!

    Dr. Angus Mungal

    Graduate Program Coordinator for Educational Leadership

    Next Steps

    Explore Affordability

    We have a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for you and your family.

    Apply to the University of Mississippi

    Are you ready to take the next step toward building your legacy?