Graduate
Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Examine the systems that shape education in K–12 schools, colleges, and universities. The Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies prepares scholars and educators to address complex challenges in policy, institutional leadership, and educational innovation.
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CIP CODE 13.0401.00
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How to Apply
Apply to UTA through the ApplyUTA graduate application. The Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies program follows UTA’s standard admissions criteria.
Scholarships
Graduate students can submit the FAFSA/TAFSA (UTA code: 003656) for financial aid. Visit the Graduate Financial Aid page for details.
International Students
We welcome international and non-U.S. students and help them navigate the process of applying and enrolling at UTA as international students.
On Campus
66 Credit Hours
College of Education
A University of Distinction
UTA is a comprehensive teaching, research, and public service institution dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through scholarship and creative work.
Program Overview
Learn what to expect and what the program offers.
The Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies provides a comprehensive foundation in K–16 leadership, policy, and research. Students progress through the program as part of a cohort, fostering collaboration and professional networks while engaging in rigorous coursework and dissertation research.
Designed for working professionals, the program offers a structured pathway with evening courses across five consecutive semesters (six graduate credit hours required per semester), followed by elective coursework and dissertation study. Students are supported by faculty mentors and peer networks and typically complete the program in four to five years.
As the only program in the region with a K–16 focus, UTA’s PhD program in Educational Leadership emphasizes systems-level thinking and the examination of barriers impacting student success. Graduates pursue roles in policy analysis, institutional research, K–12 and higher education leadership, student affairs, and academia, applying research-driven insights to improve educational outcomes.
Learn more about degree programs and requirements.
UTA offers a Post-Master’s Principal Certification Program designed exclusively for applicants who already hold a Master’s degree and want to become a school principal or assistant principal. This non-thesis, accelerated certificate program requires 18 credit hours and can be completed 100% online in as few as 12 months.
Students also have the option to pursue this certification by obtaining a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, with Principal Certificate Courses.
Explore departmental scholarship opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Education.
Career Resources
The Career Development Center empowers students and alumni for professional success by helping them discover and plan for possible career paths, connecting them with employers and professional opportunities, preparing them to present themselves well to compete for the opportunities they seek, and...
Engaged, Supportive Faculty
Our faculty members have a wide array of professional backgrounds and specialties. Most invite graduate students interested in research and mentorship to participate in their labs, discuss areas of interest, and pursue professional development opportunities.
Living and Learning in the DFW Metroplex
The DFW Metroplex is known for its diverse culture, active job market, vibrant restaurant and cultural scene, and extensive outdoor recreation activities. With 24 Fortune 500 companies including Lockheed Martin, Bell Textron, Alcon, McKesson, AT&T, and CBRE headquartered here, UTA students have access to an extensive network of opportunities for internships and jobs.
Carnegie R-1 Institution for Research
UTA students benefit from an immersive undergraduate and graduate research experience where they can actively contribute to a vibrant intellectual community. With state-of-the-art teaching and research spaces, world-renowned faculty and scientists, and an ever-growing research portfolio representing $155 million in research expenditures, UTA is working to solve some of our greatest global challenges while enriching the educational environment for our students.
Makerspaces Across Campus
UTA’s Central Library FabLab boasts 8,000-square-feet of makerspace featuring 3D printers, laser cutters, screen printers, kilns, sewing machines, and much more for learners from any discipline or experience level. The FabLab is taking the lead in ensuring students gain highly sought interdisciplinary skills.