EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

University of Denver - Morgridge College of Education EdD Program in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

The EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (ELPS) at the University of Denver's Morgridge College of Education is a transformative program designed for practitioners committed to driving meaningful change in their professional contexts. This program emphasizes bridging research and practice to improve systemic outcomes, aligning with the Carnegie Project for the Educational Doctorate (CPED) principles.

CPED's influence is evident throughout the program, which is built on a foundation of inquiry as practice and the development of scholarly practitioners. The curriculum integrates leadership development, applied research, and practical tools to foster sustainable improvements in educational systems. Key features include:

• Iterative Improvement Cycle: Students actively lead iterative improvement projects, gaining hands-on experience in identifying problems of practice and implementing evidence-based solutions. This aligns with CPED’s commitment to preparing educators to address complex challenges through systematic, data-driven methods.
• Context-Specific Application: Graduates are equipped to apply their learning to their unique professional contexts, demonstrating the program’s focus on preparing leaders who can enact change in diverse settings.
• Dissertation in Practice (DiP): A hallmark of the program, the DiP is a culminating project that blends theory and practical application. Students spend their third year collecting and analyzing data to address a real-world problem, exemplifying CPED’s emphasis on applied research.

The EdD program provides a collaborative and supportive learning environment, encouraging students to engage deeply with both theory and practice. It offers a rigorous yet flexible pathway for educational professionals seeking to enhance their leadership capacities and contribute to systemic improvement.

Graduates of this program join a network of scholar-practitioners who are well-positioned to lead impactful change in education, embodying the CPED principles of advancing equity, innovation, and continuous improvement in their work.

For those looking to bridge the gap between research and practice, the University of Denver's EdD program offers an excellent blend of academic rigor, professional relevance, and a strong foundation in CPED’s guiding framework. You can learn more about CPED on their website.      

Why Choose ELPS for Your EdD?

• Practice-Based Research: Engage in applied research that directly addresses complex challenges in education and fosters practical solutions.
• Equity-Driven Approach: Develop the skills and knowledge to promote inclusion, equity, and justice in diverse educational settings.
• Supportive Learning Community: Become part of a dynamic network of scholar-practitioners, educators, and leaders dedicated to driving meaningful change in education.

Take the next step in your professional journey and become a leader equipped to create sustainable, systemic improvement. Discover how the EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Morgridge College of Education can empower you to achieve your goals.

Start Dates: Summer or Fall

Curriculum: 65 Credit Hours  

Program Length: 3 Years 

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