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Become a highly-qualified system leader with a doctorate in Educational Leadership.
Learn to be a 21st century leader in the changing dynamic of education. The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program at the Esteves School of Education is designed to develop visionary educational leaders who are reflective and ethical practitioners. You will learn to create learning communities where all children experience a sense of belonging, discover the excitement of learning and demonstrate achievement individually and collaboratively.
Graduates of our doctorate in Educational Leadership program are prepared for roles as school district leaders and for positions in educational coordination and policy making at local, regional, and statewide levels.
Introduction
Expand your knowledge and skills in this program, while immersing yourself in a community of like-minded peers examining current issues and research. Part of the Esteves School of Education, which has had continuous accreditation through NCATE/CAEP since 2001, this program is designed for fully engaged public school leaders, independent school heads, charter school leaders, higher education leaders and those with statewide responsibilities in educationally related organizations. You’ll complete the doctorate in Educational Leadership in 27 months (or seven semesters). Ed.D. program requirements include field research, a dissertation and team research.
Faculty
Faculty in our Ed.D. program have a wealth of knowledge and experience. Throughout their careers, our faculty have conducted research in the field of educational leadership, as well as serving as program directors, principals, assistant superintendents, superintendents and district superintendents.
Program Distinctions
What sets our doctorate in Educational Leadership apart is the support that comes from your cohort (15-20 candidates per group), your professors and your executive coach. Coaches are professionals in the field with years of experience who will support you throughout the program and allow you to build a network of other education professionals.
You will collaborate and work together with your cohort to complete team research as well as your own individual doctoral dissertation.
Ed.D. Cohorts in Albany and New York City
Candidates for the doctorate in Educational Leadership have two options regarding where they may pursue their education doctorate from Russell Sage College:
- Option 1: Candidates may join a cohort that meets on the Russell Sage College campus in Albany, New York.
- Option 2: Candidates may join a cohort that meets in New York City. Priority is given to members of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators (CSA), which serves administrators within the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE).
Spotlights
Read more from Ed.D. students, faculty and alumni.
Your Future
With a doctorate in Educational Leadership, you’ll go on to further your career and take on more challenging roles at the system level in the world of education.
Experience in the field
You will apply your skills to two field experience sites during the first year. Conduct research individually and with teams, gaining field experience and broadening your knowledge and perspectives.
Careers
Professionals with a doctorate in Educational Leadership hold a variety of positions, primarily in the field of K-12 education. They are assistant principals, principals, program directors, assistant superintendents, superintendents, district superintendents, New York State Education officials and leaders/teachers in higher education. Some are education consultants, writers and bloggers.
School District Leader Certificate
The School District Leader (SDL) certificate is required in New York State for those who work in a leadership role at the school district level, including directors, assistant superintendents, school business officials and superintendents. Gain 600 hours of field experience, required by this certification, through the Educational Leadership program.
- Complete 24 credits of the Educational Leadership program (after third semester)
- Take and pass the New York State School District Leader examination
- Take workshops on Reporting and Identifying Child Abuse and Maltreatment, School Violence Prevention and the Dignity for All Students Act
