Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced study in organisational leadership, curriculum and supervision with rigorous training in research methods and applied policy analysis. Core topics typically include educational leadership theory, school administration and governance, curriculum design and instructional supervision, equity and community engagement, and systems-level change. Students also take advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods, statistics for education, program evaluation, and ethics in educational research.

Study culminates in a substantial original research dissertation that contributes to knowledge about educational administration or supervision. Program formats commonly include seminars, applied leadership practica or field-based projects, and a sequence of research colloquia and dissertation seminars to support research design, data collection and dissemination.

• Educational leadership and organisational theory
• Instructional supervision and curriculum leadership
• Policy, law and governance in education
• Equity, diversity and community partnerships
• Advanced quantitative methods and qualitative inquiry
• Program evaluation and data-driven decision making
• Dissertation research seminar and defence

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master's degree (for example MEd, MA, MS or equivalent) from an accredited institution, with a strong academic record. Successful applicants normally have several years of professional experience in education or educational leadership (such as teaching, school administration, curriculum leadership or district-level roles).

Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts from prior degree(s)
• A current CV or résumé detailing professional experience
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals
• Letters of recommendation (often two or three), preferably from academic and professional references
• A writing sample or research proposal that demonstrates scholarly potential
• An interview with faculty or admissions representatives may be part of the process

Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate proficiency in statistics or research methods before beginning advanced coursework. Specific requirements and the review process are available directly from the university.

Career prospects

Graduates of a doctoral programme in Educational Administration and Supervision pursue leadership and research roles across the education sector. Common career destinations include school principal, district superintendent or central-office administrator, curriculum and instruction director, and coordinator of professional learning. Doctoral graduates also move into higher education as faculty, researchers or programme directors, and into policy, consultancy or leadership roles in educational non-profit organisations and government agencies.

Doctoral training emphasises both applied leadership and research skills, preparing graduates to lead system improvement initiatives, design and evaluate large-scale programmes, publish scholarly work, and influence policy and practice at local, regional or national levels.

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota has a long tradition of serving working professionals and adult learners, offering programmes that balance academic rigour with applied practice. The university’s mission and Lasallian values emphasise ethical leadership, social responsibility and community engagement—key orientations for leaders in education.

Students benefit from small cohort sizes and sustained faculty mentoring, which support close supervision of dissertation research and strong practicum connections. The university’s delivery options often include flexible and blended formats designed for practicing educators, enabling candidates to continue professional roles while completing doctoral study. Practical links to school districts and a practitioner-focused curriculum help translate research into improvements in classrooms and systems.

Prospective students should contact the university for detailed information about programme structure, faculty research interests and the application process.