Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Once enrolled in Walden University's Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program with a specialization in Higher Education Leadership, you will have the opportunity to study learning concepts, research methods, and leadership practices relating to higher learning institutions. Topics addressed in the program coursework include research philosophies, change management, sustainability and productivity strategies, fundraising methods, student affairs, business strategies for colleges and universities, conflict management, and current trends in college leadership. Other requirements include a doctoral proposal and research paper and a residency consisting of seminars, face-to-face faculty and advisor meetings, and networking opportunities.

What Are the Prerequisites?

You should currently be employed in a supervisory or management position at a college or university before enrolling in Walden University's Ed.D. program with a specialization in Higher Education Leadership. An academic background in management and education is helpful. Most of Walden University's doctoral programs require a master's degree or higher and three years of related academic or professional experience. Applicants may need to complete additional requirements.

What Are the Program Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change, and you should contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. To earn the Ed.D. with a specialization in Higher Education Leadership from Walden University, you must complete 54 semester credits. In addition to 24 credits in the core curriculum, you must complete 12 credits in project study and applied research, six credits in a foundational course, and 12 credits in doctoral study. You must also complete a residency.

Curriculum

• The Learning-Centered Institution
• The New Higher Education Enterprise
• Applied Education in Research
• Transformative Leadership in Higher Education
• Achieving Coherence in Complex Organizations
• Research in Practice
• Managing Resources to Drive Change in Higher Education
• Completing the Prospectus
• Doctoral Study Intensive (two semesters)

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

You could assume greater responsibilities in your current position or advance your career at another learning institution after graduating from Walden University's Ed.D. program with a specialization in Higher Education Leadership. Your added responsibilities might include curriculum development, resource management, faculty supervision, financial management, or educational research administration. Positions you could pursue include:

• College or university president
• Dean
• Admissions director
• Student personnel administrator

Walden offers both state-approved educator licensure programs as well as programs and courses that do not lead to licensure or endorsements. Prospective students must review their state licensure requirements prior to enrolling. For more information, please refer to www.WaldenU.edu/educlicensure.

Prospective Alabama students: Contact the Teacher Education and Certification Division of the Alabama State Department of Education at 1-334-242-9935 or www.alsde.edu to verify that these programs qualify for teacher certification, endorsement, and/or salary benefits.

Prospective Washington state students are advised to contact the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction at 1-360-725-6275 or prof.educ@k12.wa.us to determine whether Walden's programs in the field of education are approved for teacher certification or endorsements in Washington state. Additionally, teachers are advised to contact their individual school district as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement.