Leading Change in Education
Appalachian State University’s Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership is designed for educational leaders in public schools, community colleges, universities, and community settings. Housed in the Reich College of Education, our objective is to equip leaders with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to act as agents of positive change in their organizations and communities. We encourage critical thinking, analytic rigor, and creative collaboration to address the complex and interlocking challenges of our time.
Dedicated
Academic Advisor and Dissertation Coach
4.5
years is the average time of degree completion
GRE
waivers available to students who qualify
5
concentrations supported by the college's departments
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Request more information and receive updates about the Educational Leadership program.
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Visit the Cratis D. Williams Graduate School page to apply to graduate school at App State.
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Program Overview
The Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership attracts professionals intent on making a difference. Students learn to apply theory to practice through core leadership and research courses to make educational systems more effective, equitable, and sustainable. Through professionally-oriented concentrations, students gain advanced knowledge in their disciplinary specialization and prepare themselves to assume higher levels of organizational leadership.
“The doctoral program was an opportunity to expand my capacity for critical thinking in a community of learners who challenged and supported my professional and personal growth. I was introduced to new ways of seeing the world and I learned how to interact differently within the sociohistorical structures that produce us. During the doctoral journey, I found friends and colleagues who believed in me and encouraged me to be creative and take risks. Overall, I came to learn that my words can and will create change.”
Dr. Ashley Myers Morrison, '23
"I have learned lessons through my dissertation journey in ways that I did not think were possible. I have honed my skills as a researcher and academic writer through this process. I have also learned what perseverance means from a fresh perspective. I have grown professionally and personally in a manner that I could not envision at the outset of this journey, but I am happy and proud of the new version of myself. I will forever cherish my experiences during this journey because I am grateful for the relationships that have been forged, and I am grateful for the discerning person I have become."
Dr. Jon Fleisher, '23
