Ed.D. Program Overview

Mission

Appalachian State University’s Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership fosters the development of educators who embrace just and sustainable practices. We support and nurture a wide variety of research methodologies that enhance collaborative learning to create positive individual, social, cultural, and institutional change. We consistently engage in a critical analysis of biases including race, gender, poverty, and all other identities that shape our lives. Across a variety of disciplines, our inclusive and challenging program inspires a diversity of critical thought and unique transformative experiences.

Goals

Introduce students to the methodologies of critical analysis of educational theories and practices
Engage students in disciplined inquiry in the field of education
Prepare students for making contributions to educational theory and practice
Prepare students to become leaders and change agents in diverse educational settings

Curriculum

The doctoral degree has a minimum 60 credit hour requirement. The core curriculum is 36 credit hours. Additionally, the program requires 12-15 elective credit hours, 3-6 internship credit hours, and 6 dissertation credit hours. 48 hours of coursework must be at the 6000 or 7000 levels.

For students entering the program with an Ed.S. earned from Appalachian State University, up to 30 credit hours may be waived toward the required 60 credit course hours.

Visit the App State Bulletin for course information.

Concentrations

Students in the Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership can choose from five concentrations.

Each concentration requires an internship, unless this requirement is waived due to completion of an Ed.S. degree. During the first year of the program, students will work with their advisor and the Graduate Program Director in their chosen concentration to develop a preliminary plan for electives and internships that align with their professional and research goals.

To fulfill concentration requirements, students must complete 18 credit hours of electives from the approved course lists, which can be found in the bulletin. Courses not listed may be considered with approval from the Director of the Doctoral Program.

To request approval for a course not on the list, students should email the Director of the Doctoral Program with the following information at least three weeks before the semester begins:

Course name and number (5000, 6000, or 7000 level)
Course syllabus

The Director will review the request and consult with the appropriate program directors to determine approval.

Advisors will meet with each student during their first semester to support academic planning and identify research interests.

Offered Concentrations

Concentrations available to each cohort may be subject to available course offerings for the next two academic years. Check the bulletin for available course offerings.

Educational Administration
Higher Education
Instructional Technology Leadership
Interdisciplinary Studies
Literacy in Exceptionalities

Cohort Structure

The cohort model is central to the Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership. Students advance through the program together, building a supportive and collegial learning community that bridges educational scholarship and practice.

Through this model, students develop the ability to apply research to organizational and social issues, strengthening their capacity to lead adaptive, sustainable, and meaningful change. Cohort members are selected through a competitive admissions process from a diverse range of educational leadership settings, enriching the collective learning experience.

All cohorts are delivered fully online, providing flexibility while maintaining a strong sense of connection and collaboration.

2026 Cohort Contacts

Higher Education – Intended for change-oriented professionals working in 4-year, 2-year, and university settings.
Dr. Chauntee Thrill | thrillcr@appstate.edu
Instructional Technology Leadership – Focuses on instructional uses of technology in K-12 and higher education.
Dr. Patrick O’Shea | osheapm@appstate.edu
Interdisciplinary Studies – Intended for professionals with an earned EdS degree from App State or cross-disciplinary interests in educational leadership, inquiry, and innovative practice.
Dr. Vachel Miller | millervw@appstate.edu

Course Delivery Method

To accommodate the needs of working professionals, core curriculum courses are offered in the evenings two nights per week over the course of two academic years, including summer sessions.

Online courses include a blend of synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous (flexible, self-paced) learning experiences to support active engagement and collaboration.

The scheduling of elective courses varies by individual plan of study and concentration area.

Information Sessions

To learn more about the program, join us for an online informational session offered by the Cratis D. Williams School of Graduate Studies.

Additional Graduate Certificate

Gain a competitive edge for positions in academia, policy institutes, community organizations, research firms, government agencies, and other professional fields by adding a graduate certificate in Applied Educational Research to your program.