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You can make a lasting difference in the field of higher education. Nova Southeastern University's Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership will give you the knowledge you need to tackle the challenges found on campuses nationwide. You'll gain skills in problem-solving, social intelligence, professional development, and more—enhancing your ability to increase your school's performance and build a collaborative, decision-making culture. NSU's Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership will help you reach the top of the academic ladder.
Our graduates flourish as college professors, university registrars, academic counselors, deans, and university presidents. The spirit of an NSU Shark shapes a strong leader and an even stronger future.
Two Capstone Options for Completing Your Education
NSU’s Ed.D. program offers two capstone options for completing your education: the Applied Dissertation or the Strategic Research Project (SRP). Both choices are designed to help you formulate tough questions and learn how to begin answering them as you prepare for educational leadership. You must successfully complete one of these capstones in order to graduate.
Who Should Apply
- Practicing or aspiring educators, trainers, and staff developers in public and private colleges and universities, hospitals, government, religious or military organizations and private corporations.
- Master’s degree graduates or above seeking a doctoral degree in education and leadership knowledge/skills in higher education administration.
- Educators considering a Ph.D. in higher education leadership who want to explore Ed.D. benefits.
Quick Facts
Ed.D. in Higher Educational Leadership Curriculum
Concentration Area Courses (21 credits)
Credits
Elective Courses (3 credits)
Credits
Summer Institute (1 credit)*
Credits
Applied Dissertation or Strategic Research Project (12 credits)**
Credits
Required Courses (12 credits)
Credits
Quantitative Research Track (6 credits)***
Credits
Qualitative Research Track (6 credits)***
Credits
Research Track for those completing the Strategic Research Project (6 credits)
Credits
*Doctoral students are required to attend at least one Summer Institute as part of required coursework. During each day of the institute, students will attend sessions where they will learn valuable skills to help them be successful in the program. There will also be sessions offered specifically to assist with the understanding and completion of the culminating capstone option (applied dissertation or strategic research project) that all students are required to complete. The sessions offer a unique blend of direct instruction and time for students to ask questions and connect with NSU faculty and engage with fellow students. The overall goal of the institute is to immerse students in a learning experience that will provide students with the information and tools needed to be a successful Ed.D. student. For additional information, please visit the website at http://education.nova.edu/summer/
**Students who complete all of their coursework and have registered for all of their dissertation benchmark courses (prospectus, proposal development, proposal, and applied dissertation) within the first three years will be required to register for ADS 8090 - Applied Dissertation Services I in order to receive dissertation services from their committee. Beginning with the fourth year (37th month/10th semester) following initial enrollment, and irrespective of remaining coursework, doctoral students are required to register for ADS 8091 - Applied Dissertation Services II, up to the point of degree completion, in order to receive dissertation services from their committee. Credits earned from ADS 8090 or ADS 8091 do not count toward the minimum credit hour requirement for the Ed.D. degree.
***For students completing the Applied Dissertation, you will select either the Quantitative Research Track or the Qualitative Research Track.
Ed.D. in Higher Education Professional Licensure Disclosure (PDF)
Admission Requirements
Ready for the Next Step?
We’re thrilled you’re applying to this Ed.D. program at NSU.
This program opens opportunities in areas of research, academia, and management for those who are ready to advance as well as for individuals considering a career change.
Applications for admission are accepted online and on a rolling basis. No entrance exam is required.
Have the following items ready to submit with your online application:
- $50 application fee
- Transcripts from all schools attended
- Two professional letters of recommendation by two different individuals who can attest to the applicant's ability to succeed in a doctoral program
Success Stories