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College of Education & Human Development Educational Policy and Administration EdAdmin

Educational Policy and Administration
330 Wulling Hall - 86 Pleasant St. SE - Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
Tel: 612-624-1006 - Fax: 612-624-3377

Doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in educational policy and administration—educational administration track

The doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree with a program emphasis in educational administration, administered by the Graduate School and offered by the Department of Educational Policy and Administration (EdPA), provides an opportunity for intensive study of the field of education. It is especially suitable for students who wish to pursue careers in policy, research, or college and university teaching. It is also available to students who are interested in careers in school, district, and statewide administration though it is more theory and research oriented than the doctorate of education (Ed.D.) degree which is also offered by EdPA.

Who enrolls in this program?

Ph.D. students are the future leaders, university faculty members, and researchers in the field of education. They come to this program from positions as teachers, school and district administrators, and from leadership positions in state and private organizations committed to improving education. The program is selective; it is limited to 10 students each year. They are selected on the basis of their credentials and their long-term interest in policy, research, and college and university teaching. All new students begin in the fall semester.

What will my program look like?

The Ph.D. requires that students enrolled under the semester system take at least 52 credits of course work. Students who already have a master's degree, with adviser’s approval, can transfer up to 18 semester credits toward their Ph.D. In addition, 24 semester thesis credits will be required for the dissertation. Typically, a course meeting once a week throughout the semester is three credits. Students may complete the coursework on either a full-time or part-time basis.

How long will my Ph.D. program take?

Going full time, including summers, students often can complete the required coursework in 2 to 2˝ years, at which time they complete preliminary written and oral examinations. Many are able to complete their dissertation in another 1 to 2 years. Upon completion of their dissertation, they take a final oral examination. Doctoral students must complete all their requirements and receive their degree within five calendar years after passing their preliminary oral examination.

See also:

Please see admission requirements or contact:

Nicola Alexander, Ph.D.
Department of Educational Policy and Administration
College of Education and Human Development
University of Minnesota
330 Wulling Hall
86 Pleasant Street S.E.
Minneapolis, MN  55455-0221
Phone: 612-624-1507
E-mail: nalexand@umn.edu

Revised October 2007

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Last modified on May 14, 2008