PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration (PhD)

Tuition is Tuition for the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership is $1,050 per credit hour..

This programme is designed for working professionals in education, including school leaders and administrators seeking advanced leadership roles. Students engage in data-informed decision-making and strategic planning across P-20 education settings. The curriculum emphasizes transformational leadership grounded in ethics, stakeholder engagement, and organizational change. Graduates lead educational institutions through complex challenges using collaborative and resourceful approaches.

Focus areas include Transformational leadership, Strategic planning, Data-informed decision-making, Ethical leadership, Stakeholder engagement, Organizational change.

The programme requires 51 credits, distributed across coursework, dissertation research, and a capstone experience. Students complete core courses and a dissertation focused on real-world educational challenges.

Graduates enter roles as superintendents, assistant superintendents, school principals, district directors, higher education administrators, and policy leaders.

Applicants must hold a master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Required documents include official transcripts, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. A current school administrator certificate is not required but may be pursued during the programme.

The programme totals about 51 credit hours. Available in person and via synchronous online coursework; full-time and part-time options; typical duration is 3 to 4 years. For international students, tuition is below the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 97% of applicants.

Centenary University began in 1867, founded by the United Methodist Church. Its academic model combines a liberal arts foundation with career-focused learning and personal attention. More than 60 programs span associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, certificate, and licensure study. A 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio supports close faculty mentorship and individualized guidance.

Academic areas include Equine Studies and Animal Health, Theatre Arts, Business, Communications, Media and Writing, Education and Humanities, and Natural, Health, Social and Behavioral Sciences. The university also provides hands-on opportunities through its equestrian center in Washington Township. Students can build experience through learning connected with northern New Jersey and the New York City region.

The main campus is in historic Hackettstown, New Jersey, at 400 Jefferson Street. Campus life includes residence life, student organizations, theatre, gaming, service activities, and Cyclone athletics. Centenary competes in NCAA Division III sports, giving student-athletes a setting where academic, athletic, and personal development are linked. For prospective international students, the university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate options and promotes a personal application review that considers each applicant’s experiences, strengths, goals, and potential. Applications are free, and most programs do not require test scores or a personal essay, although selected graduate programs may have additional requirements.