PhD in Educational Leadership and Learning

The University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, founded in 1885, combines a long academic tradition with a focus on ethical leadership and community engagement. Serving around 5,900 students, including international learners, St. Thomas fosters a supportive, close-knit environment where rigorous academics and personal development go hand in hand. The university emphasizes holistic education that prepares students to think critically and act responsibly in professional and civic life.

St. Thomas offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs across liberal arts, business, education and professional disciplines, featuring experiential learning, service projects and partnerships with local organizations. Faculty mentorship and small class sizes create accessible opportunities for research, internships and collaborative work that bridge theory and practice. Campus resources such as career services and student organizations support practical skill building and leadership development.

International students benefit from targeted advising, orientation programs, and community networks that ease academic and cultural transitions. The university’s location provides access to metropolitan internships and service-learning opportunities while preserving a campus atmosphere that values personal attention. Prospective students should review program prerequisites, connect with admissions for guidance on visas and funding, and explore how St. Thomas’ values-driven approach aligns with their goals for academic growth and civic contribution.

The PhD in Educational Leadership and Learning at the University of St. Thomas, Minnesota is a doctoral program for current and future leaders in K-12, higher education, and adult education. It's a 3-year PhD degree that helps you engage in continuous improvement and social justice within educational institutions. You'll have the advantage of completing most courses online with a summer residency.

The curriculum includes concentrations like Director of Special Education, Principal Licensure, Higher Education Administration, and Leadership in Student Affairs. You'll develop skills in systematic reform, social justice, and continuous improvement. The program also includes a summer residency that can be completed face-to-face or online.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as principals, superintendents of schools, student affairs professionals, tenure-track faculty, and adult education directors. They can work in K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and adult education organizations. Some specific job titles include peer coach, central office leader, and director of special education.