Milligan College

What you'll study

The curriculum combines research training, leadership coursework, and practicum work. Core research and methods courses include:

• EDUC 701A–C: Research seminars covering academic writing, advanced methods, and dissertation planning (1 hr each)
• EDUC 711: Quantitative Research and Statistics (3 hrs)
• EDUC 712: Using Qualitative Methods to Evaluate Program Development (3 hrs)

Instructional leadership, organisational and policy topics include:

• EDUC 716 Literacy for Instructional Leaders (3 hrs)
• EDUC 721 Ethical and Instructional Evaluation Practices (3 hrs)
• EDUC 726 Mentoring and Professional Development (3 hrs)
• EDUC 730 Management and Leadership (3 hrs)
• EDUC 732 Leading Organizational Change (3 hrs)
• EDUC 735 Managing Human Resources (3 hrs)
• EDUC 737 School Finance (3 hrs)
• EDUC 741 Community and Parent Involvement (3 hrs)
• EDUC 750 Data Analysis and School Improvement (3 hrs)
• EDUC 762 School Organization and Law (3 hrs)
• EDUC 765 Technology Leadership (3 hrs)

Practicum and professional development are embedded through three one-credit professional seminars (EDUC 770A–C) and supervised field placements each term (EDUC 770 A,B,C) working with mentors in different capacities. The doctoral research is completed through EDUC 780 Dissertation (12 hrs); if needed, EDUC 781 Special Topics (3 hrs) may be taken when the dissertation extends beyond 12 hours.

Entry requirements

• Master’s degree
• At least three years of experience in educational practice
• Application submitted online (select Summer term)
• Interview with the faculty admissions committee
• Official transcripts for all prior undergraduate and graduate work
• At least one letter of recommendation

New cohorts begin each June; applicants are advised to apply by March 30.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles such as principals and district administrators in public and non-public school systems, as well as positions in nonprofits and government agencies that require system-level educational leadership. The programme’s focus on instructional leadership, school finance, law, human resources and change management aligns with common responsibilities for school administrators and system leaders.

Scholarships & funding angle

The programme is presented as a cost-competitive option in its region and is delivered by faculty with doctoral credentials and varied field experience. Prospective applicants should consult Milligan’s admissions and financial aid offices and the academic catalog (the authoritative source for policies and fees) for current tuition, assistantships, scholarships or other funding opportunities.