My PennWest
An open book sitting on a table

Education Administration and Leadership

The online Doctorate in Educational Leadership prepares you to face financial challenges and make sound management decisions.

Prepare to lead your school district and manage its finances with confidence by earning your Doctorate in Educational Leadership online from PennWest.

This fully accredited program focuses on fiscal responsibility. It prepares you to face financial challenges and make sound management decisions for your schools. Experienced faculty will help you navigate key areas of education administration and leadership, such as operations management, problem-solving, decision-making and communication. Along the way you will develop competencies in human resource relations, applied research in the educational setting, and ethics and integrity in education leadership.

Designed for seasoned education professionals who are eager to take the next step in their careers, this program offers asynchronous delivery of online coursework. This allows you to earn a doctorate in education without stepping away from your professional or personal responsibilities. You will grow along with a cohort of classmates and graduate with a valuable network of professional colleagues.

The rigorous program leads to the state-approved Superintendent Letter of Eligibility (SLE). If you already hold the SLE credential, you may enter this doctoral program with advanced standing.

This program is for you if...

  • You are an experienced educator seeking to advance into leadership roles within educational institutions.
  • You are passionate about driving systemic improvements and educational reforms.
  • You wish to deepen your understanding of educational policies and their impact on diverse learning environments.
  • You are committed to fostering inclusive and equitable educational opportunities.
Locations
Locations
  • Global Online

Credits
Credits
  • 39 Credits for EdD

  • 57 Credits for EdD with SLE

What You'll Study

In the Doctorate in Education Administration and Leadership program, you will engage with a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop advanced leadership skills and strategic decision-making abilities. Coursework includes in-depth studies in educational policy, organizational theory, and leadership practices. You will explore research methodologies to address complex issues in education and participate in practical experiences to apply your learning in real-world settings.

What You'll Study Image

Degrees, Certificates

 

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

Meet our faculty

 

How You’ll Learn

This program is offered 100% online.

Learn more about how you’ll learn.

    What You'll Become

    Graduates of this program will emerge as transformative leaders equipped with the knowledge and skills to influence and drive change in educational settings. You will be prepared to take on senior roles such as superintendents, educational consultants, policy makers, and academic leaders. Your expertise will enable you to create and implement effective strategies to enhance educational outcomes and promote equity and inclusion.

    Career Paths

    • School Superintendent
    • Educational Policy Maker
    • Educational Consultant
    • Assistant Superintendent
    • Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction
    • Supervisor of Pupil Personnel Services
    • Supervisor of Special Education
    • Director of an Intermediate Unit
    • Elementary or Secondary K-12 School Principal
    • Vocational Education Director

    Teacher Shortage

    PennWest initiates recruitment, training programs to address U.S. teacher shortage.

    Read More
    Highlight
    Teacher Shortage

    How We'll Help You Succeed

    At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.

    $140,000

    Average salary for school superintendents nationwide, according to AASA, The School Superintendents Association.

    Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

    Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation This degree is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which promotes excellence in educator preparation through quality assurance and continuous improvement.

    View Accreditation
    • Affordable Programs

      Discover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.

      Tuition & Fees
    • Success Coaching

      Achieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.

      Success at PennWest
    • Post-Graduation Support

      We're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.

      Life After PennWest

    Better Together

    Still not sure? Explore similar programs.