Leadership

Doctoral
Online
35 hours
2 years

Doctor of Education in Leadership at Harding

The Doctor of Education is the highest level of academic degree of the college’s educational leadership program. The degree program is open to those meeting the admission’s requirements who seek to add a higher education component to their administrative education.

Why earn your Doctor of Education in leadership from Harding?

Flexible Programs

Harding University is committed to educating, preparing and supporting teachers across the U.S. and worldwide. We offer degree programs through our campuses in Searcy and Northwest Arkansas as well as online and hybrid courses (combination of on-ground and online classes). Whether you want to strengthen your professional skills in the classroom by specializing in a particular content area or pursuing a leadership role, Harding Graduate Studies in Education offers a variety of degrees and endorsement programs to suit your educational goals.

Finley STEM Center

The goal of the Lewis "Tony" Finley STEM Center for Math and Science Education is to meet the needs of P-12 math and science teachers by offering materials that support mathematics and science education standards.

A wide range of math and science materials are available for checkout and classroom use. The Lewis "Tony" Finley STEM Center for Math & Science Education serves teachers by providing access to resources and materials and can offer professional development on those materials.

A Christian Perspective

Touching hearts and challenging minds through Christ by preparing professionals for Christian service to children, families and communities.

More Information

Accreditation

All programs are recognized and approved by the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) and graduates who complete all requirements are eligible to receive a license from the state of Arkansas. This license will be recognized per reciprocal agreements with other states.

CMHC and MFC counseling programs are accredited by the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

Endorsements and licensures

Programs of study include:

  • Curriculum and instruction administration endorsement
  • Dyslexia endorsement*
  • Early childhood/special education integrated birth-K endorsement*
  • Gifted and talented endorsement*
  • Principal endorsement
  • Reading endorsement
  • Special education administration endorsement
  • Special education K-6 and 7-12 resource endorsement*
  • Special education K-12 endorsement*
  • Superintendent endorsement
  • Teaching English as a second language endorsement

What can you do with a Doctor in Leadership?

Superintendent

Obtaining a Doctor of Education in Leadership is pivotal for those aspiring to become superintendents, as it provides the advanced knowledge and skills necessary for overseeing entire school districts. This degree focuses on strategic planning, policy development and educational leadership, equipping superintendents to effectively manage district-wide initiatives, budgets and staff. With an Ed.D. in Leadership, superintendents are well-prepared to foster a vision of academic excellence, promote equity and implement data-driven decisions that improve educational outcomes across schools. 

Principal

A Doctor of Education in Leadership significantly enhances the capabilities of principals preparing them to be visionary leaders in their schools. This advanced degree provides in-depth training in organizational management, educational policy and leadership theory, enabling principals to lead with confidence and effectiveness. Principals with an Ed.D. are adept at creating and implementing strategic plans that drive school improvement, fostering a positive school culture, and managing complex issues such as resource allocation and staff development. 

Special education K-12

Earning a Doctor of Education in Leadership with a focus on special education empowers educators to take on advanced roles in the field of special education within K-12 settings. This degree equips them with a deep understanding of the latest research, instructional strategies and policy issues related to special education. Educators with an Ed.D. can lead special education departments, design and evaluate comprehensive special education programs, and advocate for students with disabilities at the district or state level. 

The best part about being a professor is not only helping students develop top-notch skills but also nurturing strong relationships with them. I care about their worries, their dreams, their spiritual lives and their impact on the world.
Cheri Smith, Ed.D

Chair and Associate Professor

Cannon-Clary College of Education

View the Catalog

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Contact Information


501-279-4315