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Become a highly-qualified system leader with a doctorate in Educational Leadership
Graduates of our Doctor of Education program are prepared for roles as school district leaders and for positions in educational coordination and policymaking at local, regional and statewide levels.
About Sage’s Ed.D. Program
Expand your knowledge and skills in this Doctor of Education program, while immersing yourself in a community of like-minded peers examining current issues and research.
Part of the Esteves School of Education, which is accredited through AAQEP, this Ed.D. program is designed for public school leaders, independent school heads, charter school leaders, higher education leaders and those with statewide responsibilities in educationally related organizations.
You’ll complete your doctorate in Educational Leadership in 27 months (or seven semesters). Ed.D. program requirements include field research, a dissertation and team research.
Educational Leadership Faculty
Faculty in our Ed.D. program have a wealth of knowledge and experience. Throughout their careers, our faculty have conducted research in educational leadership while serving as program directors, principals, assistant superintendents, superintendents and district superintendents.
Doctor of Education Program Distinctions
What sets our Ed.D. program 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 with your cohort to complete team research as well as your own doctoral dissertation.
Ed.D. Cohorts in Albany and New York City
Doctor of Education candidates may join a cohort that meets on the Russell Sage College campus in Albany, New York, or candidates may join a cohort that meets in New York City.
Priority for the New York City cohort is given to members of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators, which serves administrators within the New York City Department of Education.
Ed.D. Program Spotlights
Read more from Educational Leadership students, faculty and alumni.
Careers with a Doctorate in Educational Leadership
Professionals with a doctorate in Educational Leadership hold a variety of positions, primarily in K-12 education. They are assistant principals, principals, program directors, assistant superintendents, district superintendents, New York State Education officials, education consultants and leaders/teachers in higher education.
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
Have questions about Sage’s Ed.D. program?
Administrative Assistant
Professor of Educational Leadership
Assistant Professor
Professor (New York City)