UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · UNITED STATES
Leadership for Learning (L4L) Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3 yearsProgram Duration
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)Degree Earned
- Optional Superintendent or Program Administrator CertificationCertifications Available
- Cohort-based learningLearning Format
- Focus on Equity and Educational JusticeProgram Emphasis
- Ranked among top 10 nationally for educational administrationProgram Recognition
The Leadership for Learning (L4L) Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program at the University of Washington is a three-year, on-campus doctoral program designed for experienced educational leaders aiming to transform PK-12 and other educational systems with a focus on equity and ambitious learning goals for all students. The program emphasizes collective leadership action to redesign educational systems and achieve justice for communities. It utilizes a rigorous, equity-focused curriculum and job-embedded assignments to develop practical leadership skills. Students work within a cohort of like-minded professionals, learning from faculty and peers to disrupt inequitable practices and foster transformative change. Graduates earn a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree and may also pursue optional Superintendent or Program Administrator certification in Washington State. The program is recognized for its excellence in educational leadership preparation.
Curriculum
The L4L program features an innovative, action-focused curriculum combining classroom-based work at the UW-Seattle campus with field-based learning experiences. Students are supported by faculty, advisors, and internship mentors to tailor their learning to their individual goals. Cohort activities and group projects foster collaborative learning. The program's timeline includes summer leadership institutes and program sessions throughout the academic year, culminating in an in-depth internship.
- Year 1 (e.g., July 2024 - May 2025)
- Summer Leadership Institute I
- Program Sessions
- Year 2 (e.g., July 2025 - May 2026)
- Summer Leadership Institute II
- Program Sessions & Internship
- Year 3 (e.g., July 2026 - May 2027)
- Summer Leadership Institute III
- Program Sessions
Careers
Graduates of the Leadership for Learning program are prepared for systems-focused leadership roles across various educational settings. The program's focus on equity and transformation equips leaders to address complex challenges in PK-12 schools and other educational organizations.
- Educational Leaders
- Systems-Focused Leaders
- District Administrators
- Superintendents (with certification)
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Leadership for Learning (L4L) Ed.D. program?
- The Leadership for Learning (L4L) Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program is a three-year, on-campus doctoral program.
- What are the entry requirements for the L4L program?
- Applicants must have a Master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and ideally possess relevant leadership experience and a commitment to equity.
- Is there information on tuition and fees for international students?
- Tuition and fees are not specified for international students for this program. Fee-based programs may have different tuition structures.
- What are the application deadlines for the L4L program?
- Applications for the cohort beginning July 2027 open in Autumn 2026, with an application deadline of February 1, 2027.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing the L4L program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Educational Leaders, Systems-Focused Leaders, and District Administrators, with the possibility of pursuing Superintendent certification.
- Does the program offer any scholarships or financial aid?
- The program may consider applicants for assistantships (Research/Teaching) which can include a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and insurance. Information on other fellowships is also available.
Entry requirements
Master's degreeFrom an accredited institution. Can be in progress at the time of application, but must be completed before program start.
GPAMinimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or 3.0 for the most recent 90 graded quarter credits (60 semester credits). Applications are reviewed holistically; contact admissions if GPA is below 3.0.
Ideal candidates are currently serving in a leadership role, demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, possess systems-level thinking capacity, and have relevant equity-focused leadership experience.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees are not specified for international students.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees are not specified for domestic students.
LivingEstimated annual cost of attendance details are not available for this specific program.
Fee-based programs may have different tuition structures. The University of Washington's Planning & Budgeting office provides general tuition and fee information.
How to apply
1. Attend Information SessionsInformation sessions for the cohort beginning in July 2027 will be held in Summer-Autumn 2026.
2. Complete Online ApplicationApplications open in Autumn 2026.
3. Submit Required MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, resume/vita, and goal statement, before the deadline.
4. Meet Application DeadlineThe application deadline for the cohort beginning July 2027 is February 1, 2027.
5. Await Admission DecisionThe program begins in July 2027.
Scholarships
Assistantships (Research/Teaching)Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, medical and dental insurance
FellowshipsVaries
Accreditation
The University of Washington College of Education is ranked among the top 10 universities nationally for educational administration.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Leadership for Learning (L4L) Ed.D. program?
+
The Leadership for Learning (L4L) Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program is a three-year, on-campus doctoral program.
What are the entry requirements for the L4L program?
+
Applicants must have a Master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and ideally possess relevant leadership experience and a commitment to equity.
Is there information on tuition and fees for international students?
+
Tuition and fees are not specified for international students for this program. Fee-based programs may have different tuition structures.
What are the application deadlines for the L4L program?
+
Applications for the cohort beginning July 2027 open in Autumn 2026, with an application deadline of February 1, 2027.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing the L4L program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Educational Leaders, Systems-Focused Leaders, and District Administrators, with the possibility of pursuing Superintendent certification.
Does the program offer any scholarships or financial aid?
+
The program may consider applicants for assistantships (Research/Teaching) which can include a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and insurance. Information on other fellowships is also available.