Frostburg State University

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework, applied leadership experiences and original research. Core themes include organisational theory and change in education, advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods, educational policy and law, finance and resource management, and instructional leadership and supervision. Typical modules and topics you can expect to study are:

• Advanced Research Methods and Statistics – multivariate techniques, mixed methods design and research ethics.
• Educational Leadership and Organisational Theory – theories of leadership, change management and culture in school systems.
• Supervision and Curriculum Leadership – teacher evaluation, supervision models and curriculum development for continuous improvement.
• Policy, Law and Finance in Education – governance, legal frameworks, budgeting and resource allocation.
• Programme Evaluation and Data-Informed Decision Making – designing and conducting evaluations for programmes and interventions.
• Specialist Seminars – topics such as equity and inclusion, community partnerships, technology leadership, or higher education administration.
• Practicum/Field-Based Leadership – supervised applied leadership projects, internships or district-level partnerships to apply research to practice.
• Doctoral Dissertation – an original, contribution-to-knowledge research study supervised by faculty, culminating in a written dissertation and defence.

The programme typically follows a sequence of post-master’s coursework, comprehensive or qualifying examinations, a period of concentrated research preparation, and dissertation research and writing. Delivery may include on-campus seminars, hybrid formats and collaborative cohort activities.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised master's degree in education or a closely related field and demonstrate a strong academic record at the graduate level. Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended;
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae outlining relevant professional experience, especially in educational leadership or administration;
• A statement of purpose describing research interests, professional goals and reasons for pursuing doctoral study;
• Letters of recommendation (usually two to three) from academic or professional referees who can speak to scholarly potential and leadership capacity;
• A writing sample that demonstrates analytical and research skills;
• A qualifying interview or faculty review may be required as part of the admission process.

Many successful applicants also have several years of leadership or supervisory experience in K–12 or higher education settings. International applicants must meet Frostburg State University’s standard requirements for graduate admission and English language proficiency where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Educational Administration and Supervision pursue a range of senior and specialist roles across education and related sectors. Common career destinations include:

• District-level leadership roles such as superintendent, deputy superintendent, or director of curriculum and instruction;
• School building leadership roles at the highest level, including principals and headteachers in large or complex settings;
• State and regional education agency positions focused on policy, accountability, evaluation and system improvement;
• Leadership positions in non-profit organisations, educational consultancies and private sector organisations serving schools;
• Academic careers in teacher education and educational leadership programmes, including faculty and researcher roles in universities and colleges;
• Researcher or evaluator roles conducting programme evaluation, policy analysis and applied research for public and private funders.

The emphasis on applied research and leadership practice prepares graduates to translate evidence into policy and to lead large-scale improvement initiatives.

Why study at Frostburg State University

Frostburg State University is a public regional university with a long standing commitment to teacher preparation and educational leadership. The institution offers close faculty supervision, a collegial cohort model and connections with public school systems across Maryland, which supports field-based learning and practicum opportunities. Students benefit from a combination of applied, practitioner-focused training and rigorous research mentorship, with access to university research resources and professional development networks.

Prospective students will find a supportive academic community, opportunities to collaborate with experienced administrators and educators in the region, and pathways to apply doctoral research to real-world challenges in schools and districts. The programme’s design emphasises both scholarly contribution and practical leadership, helping graduates move into influential roles in education and related sectors.