Abilene Christian University (ACU) has launched a new online Doctor of Education (Ed.D) in Educational Leadership degree. This innovative program, designed to meet the evolving needs of education professionals, equips aspiring leaders with the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to drive meaningful change in educational institutions throughout Texas.
Led by highly regarded leadership professionals and interdisciplinary professors, the program is designed to prepare working educators with the essential skills and strategies to navigate the complexities of instructional leadership and educational administration. Through innovative and engaging coursework, hands-on experiences, and mentorship from distinguished faculty, students will develop the critical thinking, strategic planning, and collaborative skills needed to lead with integrity and vision.
“At ACU, we’re committed to preparing visionary leaders who will transform the landscape of education, said Dr. Darlene Breaux, program director of the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership program. “Our Ed.D. program empowers educators to tackle complex challenges, champion equity and inclusion, and inspire excellence in teaching and learning.”
The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program will lead students through a set of core curriculum courses in contemporary educational leadership theories, communication as an education leader, learning instruction and innovation, managing human capital, and schools as organizations. With two distinct concentrations in principal leadership and school superintendent, this program is dedicated to advancing each student’s career aspirations through enhanced competence and professional growth opportunities. The innovative program also features an embedded dissertation model that seamlessly integrates dissertation milestones alongside each student’s coursework, providing a comprehensive program tailored for success with a three-year completion time.
The program is now accepting applications for its inaugural cohort beginning August 20, 2024. With hopes of attracting students from a variety of school districts and settings, the program is partnered with organizations such as Education Service Center Region 13 in the Austin metro area and Education Service Center Region 4 in greater Houston to offer tuition discounts. Additionally, teachers and administrators holding a principal or superintendent certification or relevant coursework may be admitted with advanced standing, allowing them to earn up to 15 credit hours toward their Ed.D., resulting in a substantial savings of $12,500.
“Elevating experienced educators for school leadership roles is at the heart of our doctor of education programs,” said Dr. Stephen Johnson, chief executive officer of ACU Dallas. “As a university hyper-focused on making the next generation of educational changemakers, we are proud to launch this new program to provide more resources and opportunities for aspiring administrators looking to expand their knowledge and reach their next professional goal.”
ACU’s online programs are administered through its branch location in Dallas and include 14 bachelor’s degrees, 17 master’s degrees, three doctoral degrees, five undergraduate certificate programs, and 10 graduate certificate programs. Learn more about ACU Online’s degree programs at acu.edu/online.
Learn more about the fully online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership program.