Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's online Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in Leadership, Policy, and Change is offered in a course-based format that allows you to follow a structured program of study. When you enroll in this degree program, you will have the opportunity to learn about leadership in a global society, the economics of education, education law, innovation and change in education, and the governance and politics of education. The degree program requires that you complete a dissertation, which is preceded by a proposal and concludes with oral presentations.

What Are the Prerequisites?

To apply to this program, you must have a master's degree or higher and at least three years of experience in the education field. You should also possess strong decision-making and critical-thinking skills.

What Are the Program Requirements?

The Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in Leadership, Policy, and Change comprises of 96 quarter credits. The degree program is divided into foundation courses, core courses, specialization courses, a research sequence, and a dissertation. Four Ph.D. residencies and an ePortfolio are also required.

Foundation Courses

• Development of the Scholar-Practitioner
• Principles of Social Change
• Social Change in Education

Core Courses

• The Learner Across the Lifespan
• Learning and Instruction
• Assessment and Accountability in Education
• Leadership in a Global Society
• Educational Organizations and Contexts
• Innovation and Change in Education

Specialized Courses

• Governance and Politics of Education
• Economics of Education
• Education Law
• Policy Development and Implementation
• Leadership for Change in Education
• Capacity, Capability, and Sustainability

Research Sequence

• Research Theory, Design, and Methods
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis

Advanced Research Courses (Choose One)

• Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Advanced Mixed-Methods Reasoning and Analysis

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

When you have completed Walden University's Ph.D. in Education with a specialization in Leadership, Policy, and Change, you will have the opportunity to pursue jobs in the field. Potential employers may include nonprofits, think tanks, government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Education, research-based advocacy groups, and colleges and universities. As a job candidate, you should be able to demonstrate knowledge of current education policy issues and a desire to implement education policy change at the local, state, and national levels. Potential job titles may include:

• Education policy analyst
• Education policy researcher
• Professor
• Education administrator

Career opportunities may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.