Lewis University

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced coursework in educational leadership and supervision with rigorous preparation in research methods and a sustained independent dissertation. Core themes include organisational leadership, curriculum and instruction, school finance and law, educational policy, supervision of instruction, and equity and community engagement.

• Leadership and organisational theory — study of leadership models, change management, ethics and strategic planning for PK–12 and higher education contexts.
• Supervision and instructional leadership — methods for coaching teachers, evaluating programmes, curriculum alignment and promoting instructional improvement.
• Educational policy, law and finance — examination of governance, legal frameworks, budgeting and resource allocation affecting schools and districts.
• Research methods and statistics — advanced quantitative and qualitative methods, measurement, program evaluation and data-driven decision-making.
• Equity, community and family engagement — strategies to address disparities, foster inclusive practice and build effective school‑community partnerships.
• Practicum or administrative internship — supervised applied leadership experience in a school or district setting (where required by the programme), focused on real organisational problems.
• Doctoral dissertation — original research that contributes to knowledge in educational administration or supervision, under faculty supervision.

Coursework is typically followed by comprehensive examinations or a portfolio assessment prior to dissertation candidacy. Instructional formats often include evening, weekend or hybrid delivery to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

• Academic background — a completed master's degree in education or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Professional experience — several years of relevant experience in educational settings, such as teaching, school leadership or district administration; evidence of leadership responsibility is expected.
• Application materials — official transcripts, a current CV or résumé, a personal statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, and professional references.
• Research preparation — evidence of prior coursework or experience in research methods is preferred; some applicants may be required to complete preparatory coursework.
• Interview — admission often includes an interview with programme faculty or admissions committee to discuss fit and research plans.

Standardised test requirements (for example GRE) may vary; applicants should consult the programme for current admissions policies and any additional expectations for international applicants such as proof of English language proficiency.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD programme pursue senior leadership roles in PK–12 districts, higher education and educational organisations. Typical career paths include:

• Superintendent or district-level administrator
• Principal or director of curriculum and instruction
• Academic leadership in colleges of education or higher education administration
• Policy analyst, researcher or consultant with education agencies and non-profit organisations
• University faculty member or researcher in educational administration and leadership
• Program evaluator or director of professional development

The doctorate prepares graduates for roles that require high-level research, strategic decision-making and the ability to lead systemic improvement efforts across educational settings.

Why study at Lewis University

• Practitioner-focused faculty — faculty members bring a mix of scholarly expertise and practical leadership experience in schools and districts.
• Small cohorts and personalised mentoring — a cohort model and smaller class sizes support close faculty supervision, collaborative peer networks and tailored dissertation guidance.
• Flexible delivery — course scheduling and hybrid formats are designed for working professionals balancing school or district responsibilities.
• Connection to regional schools — strong links with local and regional school districts provide opportunities for practicum placements, applied research projects and professional networking.
• Values-based mission — as a Catholic university, Lewis emphasises ethical leadership, service and community engagement within educational contexts.

Prospective students should contact Lewis University’s graduate admissions or the College of Education for detailed information on programme structure, faculty research interests and application procedures.