Explore Educational Leadership Degree Courses at ASU
We offer two educational leadership degrees so you can tailor your educational experience
to your goals. If you are interested in research, informing and developing policies
or entering academia, our Ph.D. pathway is right for you. If you are most interested
in the practical side of education and want a career in leadership within educational
institutions, you should consider the Ed.D. in educational leadership.
Whichever educational leadership degree path you choose, you’ll enjoy a balanced combination
of theory and hands-on field experiences to master foundational tools to become an
effective and inspiring leader and policy shaper making positive impacts on education.
Some core courses in our educational leadership degree programs include:
- Leadership Studies
- Social and Ethical Issues
- Educational Policy
- Legal Research
Are You Ready To Apply?
Educational Leadership, Policy, and Law Program: Cohort Model Statement
The Educational Leadership, Policy, and Law (ELPL) Program prepares transformative
leaders to advance educational equity, shape policy, and navigate legal frameworks
with integrity and innovation. Anchored in a cohort-based model, the program cultivates
a supportive, collaborative learning community where students progress together, fostering
peer mentorship, critical dialogue, and shared leadership development. Because of
this structure, the program admits one new cohort each May.
Applications open: September 1
Applications due: April 1
Funding Opportunities
Funding is typically available for students who reside in the state of Alabama, based
on the availability of state-allocated resources. While funding is not guaranteed,
eligible admitted students are informed of potential opportunities upon acceptance
into the program.
Transfer Credit Policy
Candidates may transfer a maximum of six (6) credit hours of graduate coursework completed
beyond the master’s degree toward the Ed.D. program, and a maximum of three (3) credit
hours toward the Ph.D. program.
What Can You Do With an Educational Leadership Doctorate?
Professionals with a Ph.D. or Ed.D. in Educational, Leadership, Policy and Law work
in a wide variety of educational settings, including private and public schools, universities,
government agencies and law firms. Thanks to our educational leadership program’s
focus on internships, many of our students are employed before graduation.
Some of the most common career paths for professionals with educational leadership
degrees include:
- Professor
- Superintendent
- Researcher
- Dean
- College president
- Education director
- Principal
- Policy researcher
