Educational Leadership: Superintendency Concentration, Ed.D.

Program Overview

The UNC Charlotte Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership, specializing in Superintendency, is specifically designed to develop proficient leaders for the dynamic challenges of the 21st-century educational landscape. Our graduates excel in high-level positions across public and private K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and governmental roles, demonstrating strong leadership and an ability to address complex educational issues.

Program Structure

Our curriculum strategically blends core coursework with specialization in superintendency, focused research, and applied dissertation projects tailored to professional practice. This program accommodates the schedules of working professionals through a mix of hybrid and online classes, offering flexibility to complete the degree in up to four years. Courses primarily take place during evening sessions at the main campus and at designated distance education locations.

Program Contact

  • Delivery
    Online & In Person
  • Credits
    48 Credit Hours
  • Admits
    Fall

Licensing and Professional Preparation

The specialized coursework and dual internship opportunities within the superintendency concentration are designed to fully prepare you for advanced roles in educational administration. The program not only focuses on leadership and policy analysis but also integrates emerging technologies and strategic management skills essential for today’s educational leaders.

Courses

Part-Time Year I

  • Fall Semester
    • ADMN 8110: Organizational Theory and Behavior
    • ADMN 8140: School Finance
  • Spring Semester
    • RSCH 8210: Applied Educational Research
    • ADMN 8120: Rethinking Education Reform: Law, Policy, and Public School
  • Summer Semester
    • ADMN 8150: Human Resources Development and Administration

Part-Time Year II

  • Fall Semester
    • ADMN 8610: Interdisciplinary Seminar
    • ADMN 8125: Doctoral Seminar in Instruction
  • Spring Semester
    • ADMN 8181: Equity and Social Justice in Adult Education
    • RSCH 8110: Descriptive & Inferential Statistics
    • Or RSCH 8111: Qualitative Research Methods
  • Summer Semester
    • RSCH 8196: Program Evaluation Methods

Part-Time Year III

  • Fall Semester
    • RSCH 8890: Special Topics – Applied Dissertation Proposal
    • ADMN 8410: Advanced Internship in Educational Leadership I
  • Spring Semester
    • ADMN 8699: Dissertation Proposal Seminar
    • ADMN 8420: Advanced Internship in Educational Leadership II

Part-Time Year IV

  • Fall Semester
    • ADMN 8999: Dissertation Research
  • Spring Semester
    • ADMN 8999: Dissertation Research
Admissions

Admissions & Requirements:

  • Complete the Graduate School Admission Application.
  • Completion of a Master of School Administration, Master of Education in Curriculum Supervision, Master of Education in Instructional Technology, or a comparable degree from a university accredited by a US Department of Education-recognized institutional accreditor with a GPA of at least a 3.5.
  • Copies of unofficial transcripts from all academic coursework beyond high school.
  • Have completed a minimum of three years of successful teaching experience or other professional education experience.
  • Three recommendations from individuals who know the applicant’s current work and/or academic achievements in previous degree work. Applicants will provide reference contact names and email addresses through the application portal.
  • A statement of purpose describing prior educational and research experiences and objectives for pursuing doctoral studies.
  • A current resume or vita.
  • Interviews may be scheduled with select applicants.
  • An Advanced “M” level Professional II (SP2) Professional Educator’s License in any content area from North Carolina or its equivalent from another state.
  • At least three years of relevant work experience in formal school leadership.
Application

Application Deadline: March 1 (fall)

Why UNC Charlotte?

Why Choose UNC Charlotte?

  • Urban Research Focus: Positioned as North Carolina’s urban research university, UNC Charlotte dedicates itself to the regional needs encompassing culture, economy, education, and health.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Choose from part-time or full-time enrollment with evening classes that cater to working professionals. The superintendency concentration features a distance learning option at Mallard Creek High School.
  • Expert Faculty: Learn from renowned scholars and experienced administrators such as former principals and superintendents known for their engaging teaching methods and substantial contributions to educational research.
  • Career Advancement: Graduates pursue distinguished careers in educational settings, filling roles such as university professors, school administrators, and even college presidents. Eligibility for North Carolina D-Level licensure is an added advantage for students in the superintendency track.
  • Cost Efficiency: Benefit from competitive tuition rates for distance education and explore various scholarship and financial aid options.
  • Student Engagement and Opportunities: Engage in research collaborations with faculty, participate in leading educational conferences, and utilize comprehensive support services like the Center for Graduate Life and the University Career Center to enhance your professional skills and network.
Tuition

Please note: Rates are subject to change.

Resident:

  • $288.82 per credit hour

Outside of NC Non-Resident:

  • Not Applicable

Non-Resident:

  • $1,098.21 per credit hour

More information regarding tuition and fees »