Prepare for a career as a senior leader or policymaker in P–12 education through a program that emphasizes equity-driven leadership, applied research, and interdisciplinary learning. Develop the skills to design and implement research-informed solutions to complex educational challenges, while collaborating with faculty and peers in a dynamic, practice-focused doctoral environment.
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Degree Details
Official Degree Title
EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Format
Full-time or Part-time
Credits
42–60
Start Date
Fall
Application Deadline
Admissions is alternate years only.
The next application deadline is December 1, 2026 for a start date of September 2027.
Your academic journey will involve you investigating a significant problem of practice within educational leadership and policy. Throughout the program, you will work closely with a faculty advisor to develop a personalized course of study aligned with your professional goals and research interests.
Advancement to candidacy requires the preparation and defense of a candidacy paper that critically synthesizes relevant literature and frames a practice-oriented problem for investigation. Your doctoral dissertation or project will involve empirical research aimed at generating actionable knowledge that addresses real-world challenges in P–12 education, under the guidance and mentorship of your faculty committee.
Your research will focus on addressing real-world problems of practice at the intersection of theory and leadership in education. Coursework emphasizes critical, equity-centered analysis of contemporary challenges faced by educational leaders and policymakers. You will engage in collaborative learning environments alongside faculty, school administrators, and fellow doctoral students to develop practical, research-informed solutions that drive meaningful change.
Our EdD students come from diverse professional backgrounds, including experienced educators, school and district leaders, and professionals working with youth and families in nonprofit, community, and out-of-school educational settings. They share a commitment to addressing complex problems of practice and advancing equity through leadership and policy.
This diversity enriches the program’s collaborative learning environment, where students engage with critical issues shaping educational leadership and policy in today’s schools and communities.
Before applying, we encourage prospective students to connect with faculty through a campus visit. If an in-person visit isn’t possible, you can arrange a phone or video appointment with a faculty member whose expertise aligns with your interests. To schedule a visit or appointment, please contact kris.defilippis@nyu.edu.
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