Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

When you enroll in Walden University's online Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in K-12 Education Leadership, you have the opportunity to choose between a mixed-model format and a Knowledge Area Module (KAM) format. The KAM format is loose in structure and allows you to focus on research while working with a faculty mentor. The mixed-model format, however, is more structured and provides balance between online courses and research responsibilities. Some of the topics covered in the curriculum include learning and instruction, leadership in a global society, educational organizations and contexts, and innovation and change in education. A dissertation is required and must be successfully defended so that the degree can be awarded.

What Are the Prerequisites?

If you apply to Walden University's Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in K-12 Education Leadership, you should have strong interpersonal and communication skills and have some experience in the field of education. Applicants to Walden University's programs should be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent; applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Course Requirements?

The Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in K-12 Education Leadership consists of 96 credits. The degree program is divided into foundation courses, core courses, specialized KAMs, research courses, a research proposal, a dissertation, and oral presentations. Four Ph.D. residencies are also required and one of the advanced research courses listed below must be chosen.

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

Core Research Sequence

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

Specialized KAMs

• Breadth: Theories of Student Learning and Leadership for Student Success
• Depth: Current Research on K-12 Educational Leadership for Student Success
• Application: Professional Practice for Student Success
• Breadth: Theories of Organizational Functioning and Development for K-12 Leaders
• Depth: Current Research on Accountability and Organizational Effectiveness for K-12 Leaders
• Application: E Professional Practice for Organizational Effectiveness in K-12 Settings

Advanced Research Courses

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

Dissertation

• Dissertation

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

When you finish Walden University's Ph.D. in Education program with a specialization in K-12 Education Leadership, you have an opportunity to pursue jobs in the field. It is important to note, however, that the degree program does not lead to certification or licensure for K-12 administrators. Potential employers could include government agencies, research institutes, think tanks, and colleges and universities. As a job candidate, you should have strong communication, leadership, and research skills. Some possible jobs could include:

• Professor
• K-12 educational researcher
• Education policy analyst
• K-12 education consultant

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.

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.