Marymount University

What you'll study

This doctoral programme emphasises advanced study in educational leadership, organisational theory, policy analysis and supervision, balanced with rigorous research training. Core topics typically include leadership theory and ethics, school and district governance, curriculum and instruction leadership, finance and resource management, education law and policy, and supervision of teaching and learning.

• Research methods and statistics: advanced qualitative and quantitative methods, programme evaluation and data-driven decision making.
• Leadership and organisation: organisational change, strategic planning, human resources and distributed leadership models.
• Policy, law and finance: education policy analysis, legal issues in education, budgeting and finance for educational institutions.
• Curriculum and supervision: instructional supervision, curriculum design, assessment systems and improvement science.
• Specialist seminars: options that reflect scholarship interests, such as special education leadership, teacher professional development, or urban education.
• Dissertation research: sustained independent research leading to a doctoral dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field.

The programme combines seminar-style coursework, applied leadership practicum or portfolio experiences, comprehensive examinations or qualifying assessments, and a guided dissertation. Students work closely with faculty advisers to develop a research agenda and typically engage with local school districts or education agencies for applied research opportunities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised master’s degree in education or a closely related field and to demonstrate professional experience in educational settings, often in leadership or supervisory roles. Typical application components include:

• Academic transcripts from previous degrees.
• A professional résumé or curriculum vitae detailing relevant educational leadership experience.
• Letters of recommendation, usually including at least one academic reference and one professional reference.
• A statement of purpose or research statement articulating professional goals and prospective dissertation interests.
• Evidence of capacity for doctoral-level study; some applicants may be asked to provide writing samples or attend an interview.

Standardised test requirements, such as the GRE, may vary or be optional; applicants should consult the university for current admissions policies. Relevant leadership experience in K–12, district administration, or higher education strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD programme typically move into senior leadership, policy, research or academic roles. Common career pathways include:

• District-level leadership: superintendent, assistant superintendent, director of curriculum, assessment or professional development.
• School leadership: principal or principal supervisor with a strong emphasis on instructional leadership and school improvement.
• Policy and research roles: policy analyst, researcher or consultant for education agencies, think tanks or non-profit organisations.
• Higher education and faculty positions: teacher education, educational administration departments, or leadership roles in colleges and universities.
• Consultancy and leadership development: independent consulting, leadership coaching, or roles in educational technology and programme evaluation.

The programme prepares graduates to lead complex organisations, design and evaluate programmes, influence policy, and contribute to the scholarly literature in educational leadership and supervision.

Why study at Marymount University

Marymount University offers a personalised doctoral experience with small cohorts, close faculty mentorship and a practical orientation that connects research to school improvement. Its campus location in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area provides access to a wide range of school districts, education agencies, policy organisations and professional networks, facilitating applied research and partnership opportunities.

The university’s commitment to service, ethical leadership and inclusive practice aligns well with programmes in educational administration and supervision, and students benefit from faculty who bring practitioner experience and active research agendas. The programme emphasises applied scholarship, leadership development and preparing graduates to make measurable improvements in educational organisations.