The program leading to the Ph.D. in educational policy and leadership requires at least three academic years of full-time work, or the equivalent over a longer period, beyond the baccalaureate and may involve as many as four years. The program is designed to develop research competence and the effective application of skills in the educational administration and policy studies field.
Program of Study (69 credits, minimum)
The student, in consultation with the faculty advisor, develops a program of study taking into account the previous preparation, area of specialization, and objectives.
Credit requirements (a total of 69 minimum) include the following:
To satisfy the program requirement of 69 credits, students may select with advisement an additional three credits in concentration, support, or electives.
Dissertation
The student must submit a dissertation which demonstrates ability to treat comprehensively a significant problem in education. The dissertation should reveal the student's ability to employ both the fundamental concepts of administration and the technical skills of scholarly research.
Departmental Examinations
The student must pass a doctoral examination covering, as a minimum, the following areas: organizational leadership, social analysis of education, and an area of concentration.
Research Sequence
Full Time Study in Residence
Students must demonstrate, with the approval of their faculty adviser and the Curriculum Committee of the department, that they are engaging in work or other experience of at least one year in duration which is relevant to their doctoral studies and contributes to intensive intellectual growth. The requirement for continuing registration in the program must be met during this period, in accordance with the University of Albany’s Graduate Policy and Procedures for doctoral students.
OR
They must earn a minimum of 18 course credits in two regular sessions, not necessarily consecutive.
Admission to Candidacy
Please note: This program offers an internship, field experience, study abroad component, or clinical experience in the course listing as an option to fulfill course requirements. Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet licensure requirements for certain professions. If you have concerns about this matter please contact the Dean’s Office of your intended academic program.