Ranked #16 in Education Administration by US News and World Report

The EdD in Urban Education Leadership is a nationally-recognized program designed to prepare and develop principals who are able to lead the improvement of teaching and learning in urban schools. The program faculty and staff are comprised of equity-minded educators committed to developing aspiring leaders who have the drive to disrupt inequities and advance learning opportunities within diverse student populations.  The EdD program partners with The Center for Urban Education Leadership (CUEL) to conduct research, development, dissemination, policy advocacy to enhance the capacities of school leaders and  improve the educational outcomes and life opportunities of PK-12 urban school students. Our program creates rigorous learning experiences that intensify leaders’ capacity as change agents who enlist the talents and energies of teachers, families, community members, and students to improve school culture, climate, and learning outcomes.

This an intensive, highly-selective cohort program combining coursework with supervised practicum experiences at the school level. It leads to the Illinois Principal Endorsement after successful completion of the first 18 months of coursework and residency, and to the Ed.D. degree upon three more years of successful leadership and study. We seek applicants who are preeminent teachers and leaders seeking to develop as equity-minded school principals. Applicants also include principals seeking to take their schools and their leadership skills to the next level. The EdD Urban Education Leadership Program looks for candidates with a strong understanding of effective instruction, the willingness to self-critique and improve through intensive coaching, a history of working effectively with adults, and a clear commitment to challenging inequity in schools.

Program Accolades

  • Identified as a “model program” by the Illinois Board of Higher Education Commission on School Leader Preparation.
  • Ranked #16 in Education Administration by US News and World Report.
  • Awarded as Exemplary Educational Leadership Preparation Program by University Council for Education Administration.
  • Awarded the Dr. Shirley S. Schwartz Urban Education Impact Award from the Council of Great City Schools, honoring an outstanding partnership between a university and an urban school district that has had a positive and significant impact on student learning.
  • First higher education leadership preparation program in the US to receive Exemplary Affiliate Status (highest designation) by the George W. Bush Institute’s Alliance to Reform Education Leaders, which seeks to improve the way America’s principals are prepared and supported.
  • With the Center for Urban Education Leadership, first higher education institution to receive Carnegie Foundation for Advancement of Teaching Spotlight Award for Continuous Improvement.

Summary: 88 credit hours to obtain the EdD or 112 hours to obtain the EdD with Superintendent Endorsement.

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