Harding University

What you'll study

Coursework and project work focus on advanced leadership knowledge and skills needed to lead educational organizations and related institutions. Candidates work collaboratively with a dissertation team to plan and complete an original doctoral dissertation. Program outcomes prepare graduates to operate in private and public education, post-secondary and higher education, state and federal departments of education, and in community, non-profit, business or medical settings. The Finley STEM Center is noted as a campus resource that supports P–12 math and science educators with materials and professional development.

Entry requirements

• Complete the online application.
• Official transcripts sent directly to admissions (Harding transcripts already on file for Harding alumni/current students).
• Three recommendation letters addressing professional and/or academic background and potential for success.
• Upload MMR immunization record.
• Upload a resume showing work experience and professional accomplishments.
• Upload two writing artifacts (e.g., thesis, research paper, journal article, field study, grant or specialist project).
• Applicants from the field of education should upload a copy of their current educator license.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.3 or higher on all graduate coursework is required.
• A personal interview with the Doctoral Admission Committee; an impromptu writing sample will be requested at the interview.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly move into senior leadership roles. Explicit career examples provided by the program include superintendents—prepared for district-level strategic planning and policy leadership—school principals who lead organizational management and school improvement, and K–12 special education leaders who can direct programs, evaluate services and advocate for students with disabilities.

Scholarships & funding angle

Students pay semester tuition; technical support is included and a graduation/regalia fee applies in the final semester. The program page directs prospective students to Harding Graduate Studies in Education for catalog, cost and schedules; for specific scholarships, financial aid options or assistantships contact Graduate Studies in Education or the program director.