The Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration curriculum prepares current and future leaders for executive level positions within postsecondary institutions. With a programmatic emphasis in research, institutional effectiveness, student services, curriculum development, finance, law, and future trends, students will develop the theoretical skills necessary to effectively address real-world problems within higher education. The curriculum consists of 51 credit hours, with 3 hours of required orientation courses, 21 credit hours of discipline-specific courses, 12 credit hours of research methods courses, 3 credit hours related to a Comprehensive Exam, and 12 credit hours devoted to the development of a dissertation. Students can complete the program within 10 semesters of full-time attendance.

*This program is pending SACSCOC approval. Approval will be forthcoming by December 31, 2018.

Upon completion of the program the graduate will be able to:

1. Interpret results from programmatic/institutional data, financial reports, and scholarly research in order to make data-driven decisions.
2. Apply organizational theories and models to lead effective organizations.
3. Analyze trends and issues that influence higher education (such as student services, institutional effectiveness, public policy, student learning, and finance) to develop, manage, and evaluate quality academic programs and services in an ethical manner.
4. Research issues in higher education and provide scholarly analysis and innovative solutions.

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration may be completed in four years attending full-time. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis. This estimate includes coursework and the writing and acceptance of the dissertation.