PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Education Policy and Leadership
PhD · Taught in en · UCAS EPL
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Ph.D.Degree Awarded
- 42 credits minimumProgram Length
- University Park CampusLocation
- Multiple Dual-Title OptionsSpecializations
The Education Policy and Leadership doctoral program at Penn State prepares students for leadership roles in education. It focuses on educational policy, leadership, and higher education, aiming to equip graduates for careers as researchers, faculty, or administrators in educational institutions or related organizations. The curriculum includes core coursework in policy, leadership, research, equity, and diversity, alongside specialized electives chosen in consultation with an advisor to support dissertation research.
Curriculum
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program requires a minimum of 42 credits. This includes required core courses, coursework within an area of emphasis, methodological coursework, and electives. Students will also complete a qualifying examination, English competence requirements, a comprehensive examination, and a final oral examination (dissertation defense).
- Year 1-2 (Example)
- Proseminar in Education Policy and LeadershipEPL 501
- Educational Policy and PoliticsEPL 502
- Equity and Diversity in Education Policy and LeadershipEPL 503
- Research Design in Education Policy and LeadershipEPL 504
- Area of Emphasis Coursework (e.g., Educational Leadership, Educational Theory and Policy, Higher Education)
- Methodological Coursework (Quantitative and Qualitative)
- Electives
Careers
Graduates of the Education Policy and Leadership program are prepared for leadership positions in various educational settings.
- Researchers in education
- Faculty in higher education
- Administrators in educational organizations
- Leaders in organizations related to education
Frequently asked questions
- What are the minimum credit requirements for the Education Policy and Leadership PhD program?
- The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program requires a minimum of 42 credits. This includes core courses, coursework within an area of emphasis, methodological coursework, and electives.
- What career paths can graduates of this program pursue?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as researchers in education, faculty in higher education, administrators in educational organizations, and leaders in organizations related to education.
- What materials are needed for the PhD application?
- You will need to submit a resume, statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended.
- When is the application deadline for the PhD in Education Policy and Leadership?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is December 15.
- Are GRE scores required for admission?
- No, GRE scores are not required for admission to this program.
- How can international students demonstrate English proficiency?
- International applicants may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores as per Graduate Council policies.
Entry requirements
Previous Post-Secondary EducationOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended are required.
GRE scores are not required. International applicants may need to provide English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS). Application is submitted through the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School application portal.
Fees
Tuition (international)Rates vary by campus and academic year. Please refer to the official Penn State Tuition and Fees schedule for the most current information.
Tuition (home)Rates vary by campus and academic year. Please refer to the official Penn State Tuition and Fees schedule for the most current information.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program or related pages. Prospective students should consult university resources for financial planning.
Tuition and fees apply regardless of instructional mode. Specific rates for Fall/Spring and Summer terms for different campuses can be found on the Penn State Tuition and Fees schedules.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all required documents, including a resume, statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended.
2. Submit ApplicationApply online through the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School application for admission.
3. English Proficiency (if applicable)International applicants may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores as per Graduate Council policies (GCAC-305).
4. Apply for Dual-Title Programs (Optional)If interested in a dual-title Ph.D. (e.g., Comparative and International Education, Transdisciplinary Research on Environment and Society), you must apply and be admitted to the dual-title program after being accepted into the primary program.
Frequently asked questions
What are the minimum credit requirements for the Education Policy and Leadership PhD program?
+
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program requires a minimum of 42 credits. This includes core courses, coursework within an area of emphasis, methodological coursework, and electives.
What career paths can graduates of this program pursue?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as researchers in education, faculty in higher education, administrators in educational organizations, and leaders in organizations related to education.
What materials are needed for the PhD application?
+
You will need to submit a resume, statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended.
When is the application deadline for the PhD in Education Policy and Leadership?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is December 15.
Are GRE scores required for admission?
+
No, GRE scores are not required for admission to this program.
How can international students demonstrate English proficiency?
+
International applicants may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores as per Graduate Council policies.