There are two main types of educational leadership doctoral programs. The first, the Ph.D., is typically theoretical in nature. This degree is designed for those seeking employment in the higher education sector, such as universities and colleges. Traditionally Ph.D. programs in educational leadership are focused on research, with a thesis or a dissertation forming a major part of the program. This type of program is appropriate for those pursuing a career in scholarly research or teaching in a university. The second type, Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) programs, are typically more applied in nature than theoretical. They prepare educators to work in leadership positions in the field of education at elementary or secondary levels, or for school boards.
For Ph.D. programs in educational leadership, you must already hold an earned master's degree from an accredited institution. Ph.D. programs in educational leadership may accept candidates with master's degrees from a variety of backgrounds, but those with a Master of Arts or Master of Education may be preferred. Those with an interdisciplinary background are more likely to be accepted into a Ph.D. program, rather than an Ed.D. program, as research skills are considered to be transferable. Ph.D. programs in educational research also require a solid research background. Selection committees generally favor candidates who have published research material, preferably in peer-reviewed scholarly journals. Applicants who have a track record of consistently presenting at academic conferences are also more likely to be considered strong candidates for admission. Finally, letters of reference from well-respected research scholars will greatly benefit applicants. Letters of reference must attest to the candidate's ability to think critically and conduct research, as well as her potential to make a significant contribution to the research field in educational leadership.
For Ed.D. programs in educational leadership, candidates must have an earned master's degree from an accredited institution. Ed.D. programs generally favor candidates who have a master's degree in the field of education. Candidates must also show leadership experience in the field. Because these programs are designed mainly for those individuals who will work in the public or private education sector serving students in kindergarten through 12th grade, applicants must generally have experience in that profession. Those with previous leadership experience, such as holding the position of vice principal, assistant principal, principal or learning leader, may be favored. Excellent letters of reference from well-respected educational leaders will also help a candidate. Reference letters from school superintendents, school board administrators and principals are considered particularly helpful by selection committees. Letters should highlight a candidate's previous leadership experience and his leadership potential in the field of education.
Educational doctorate programs are generally structured in one of three ways. This applies to both Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs. The first type of programs are traditional ones. In these programs, students take classes on campus. They meet face to face with classmates and professors to discuss course work, assignments and research. Colorado State University, School of Education's Ph.D. in Educational Leadership is one example of a traditional on-campus program.
In online programs, the second type, students take classes and meet with their classmates and professors over the Internet. Classes are held in "virtual meeting rooms." Examples of universities offering purely online doctoral programs in educational leadership include University of Phoenix and Walden University.
The third type of programs are blended ones. In these programs, students take classes face-to-face for short periods of time. Educational leadership doctoral programs fitting into this category typically offer face-to-face sessions during the summer months. Students do the remainder of their learning online, following the structure noted above. Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology offers a blended learning doctorate in educational leadership. Their program involves 60 percent of face-to-face meetings and 40 percent online interaction.