Capella University

What you'll study

Coursework focuses on applied research and leadership for educational settings. Students practice creative and critical thinking and apply inquiry methods to address organizational problems and gaps in outcomes. The curriculum culminates in a doctoral project that is an improvement-focused initiative for an organization chosen by the student; key deliverables for that project are integrated across multiple courses. Five available specializations let students concentrate their study: Adult Education; Curriculum and Instruction; Educational Leadership; Performance Improvement Leadership; and Reading and Literacy.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a master’s degree from an institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education–recognized agency or from an internationally recognized institution and submit official master’s transcripts demonstrating a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. A valid government-issued photo ID and an admission application (no fee) are required. GRE and GMAT scores are not required. International and FlexPath applicants face additional admission requirements.

Career prospects

The program prepares graduates to function as strategists, problem-solvers and change managers within educational organizations. Capella states the EdD readies practitioners to improve outcomes, address institutional gaps and lead organizational change in P–12 or higher education contexts.

Scholarships & funding angle

Capella provides several cost-management options noted on the program page: a Tuition Cap that limits tuition to $32,000 for eligible students (eligibility rules and exclusions apply), opportunities to transfer credit from accredited institutions, employer tuition discounts and scholarships, and military benefits for active-duty service members, veterans and dependents. The university also directs students to financial aid assistance and encourages exploring discounts and tuition assistance alongside loans.