PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration (PhD)

At Saint Peter's University, tuition is Tuition and fees are subject to change and are available through the university's financial aid office..

The program builds on the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership with advanced coursework in research methods and university teaching. Students engage in dissertation research focused on improving educational practice and policy. The program emphasizes evidence-based leadership and service-oriented scholarship. Each student receives individualized advising throughout their studies.

Focus areas include K-12, Research Methods, University Teaching, Educational Policy, Leadership in Educational Institutions, Fiscal Management in Education.

The program requires 66 to 69 credits, including additional coursework beyond the Ed.D. Students complete advanced research training and a dissertation. The credits are for the full Ph.D. degree, not a concentration.

Graduates pursue roles as university professors, education policy analysts, non-profit executive directors, and district-wide administrators.

Applicants must hold a relevant master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. A completed application, official transcripts, and a statement of purpose are required. The program requires a prior Ed.D. or equivalent professional doctorate.

The programme totals about 66 credit hours. Online and asynchronous, full-time, typically 3-4 years. For international students, tuition is below the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 91% of applicants.

Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, founded in 1872, is a Jesuit institution that blends rigorous academics with a commitment to ethics, social justice and personal formation. Serving a diverse student body, Saint Peter’s offers liberal arts and professional programs in a close-knit campus environment. Its urban location provides direct access to internship, cultural and networking opportunities in the New York metropolitan region while preserving personalized faculty mentorship and community engagement.

The university’s curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, service and real-world preparation across disciplines, supported by faculty with both scholarly and professional experience. Small class sizes and advising relationships help students navigate academic choices, secure internships and pursue research or community-based projects. Saint Peter’s also prioritizes civic engagement and leadership development through structured service programs and campus initiatives.

International students are supported with admissions counseling, orientation, academic support and career services to ease transition and enhance employability. Saint Peter’s combination of ethical formation, hands-on learning and urban opportunities appeals to students seeking meaningful education with practical outcomes. Prospective applicants should consult admissions for program details, visa guidance and scholarship information to plan a successful start at the university.