Apr 20, 2024  
2021-2022 Graduate Catalog 
    
2021-2022 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Higher Education, Ed.D.


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The Ed.D. in Higher Education prepares midcareer professionals from a variety of postsecondary institutions and settings to perform at a higher level. These include public and private institutions; community colleges; and state, regional and national governance systems and organizations. Students engage with program faculty and their cohort in all course content, which includes the individual development and execution of a problem-based dissertation. Program activities benefit the students in their roles as postsecondary leaders and the organizations they serve.

Degree Requirements


The Ed.D. curriculum is delivered in a three-year executive-style format in which students meet in 10 weekend sessions each year and in summer intensive sessions. The schedule is designed for midcareer professionals to further their education while continuing to work fulltime. Students become part of a student cohort when admitted and remain in the cohort as they progress through the program. Some online assignments are given between weekend sessions. Five cross-cutting themes infuse courses and other learning opportunities:

  • Academic leadership.
  • Strategic and organizational leadership.
  • Policy and political leadership.
  • Evidence-based leadership.
  • Personal and ethical leadership.

In an applied dissertation that serves as a capstone experience, students demonstrate leadership competencies by engaging in a multifaceted inquiry project based on a problem of practice.

Admission Requirements


1. Possess a master’s or post-baccalaureate degree before you begin the program.
2. Complete and submit the online application: https://gradadmission.smu.edu/apply/.
3. Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts with a GPA of 3.000 or higher.

  1. Electronic transcripts should be sent directly by the institution to: gradappmaterials@smu.edu
  2. Paper transcripts should be sent directly by the institution to:

Graduate Application Processing
PO Box 518
Dallas, TX 75275-0518

4. TOEFL English language proficiency test scores for students whose native language is not English.
5. Statement of professional purpose For Ed.D. in Higher Education.
6. Three letters of recommendation. Letters should be from individuals who can speak to the candidate’s academic and professional skills and potential. One letter should be from a direct supervisor in the candidate’s organization. The supervisor will also be asked to indicate agreement for the student to miss work to attend classes (for time on Fridays and summer terms). 
7. A resume/curriculum vita.

Applicants may be invited to interview with faculty members.

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