Michigan State University

How this program compares

Benchmark this program against our national recognition pages and use the key guides below to evaluate ROI, admissions difficulty, and outcomes.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Requires a master's degree in education or related field, minimum GPA of 3.0, professional experience in K-12 education, and evidence of leadership potential; GRE is often optional.

About This Program

MSU's College of Education has two Ed.D. programs. The Ed.D.-DEL (K-12 Administration) is 3-year hybrid, CPED-approved, with summer intensives and group capstone projects in Year 3 addressing community problems of practice. Prepares students for Michigan Central Office Administrator (COA) certification. New 2024 program: Ed.D. in Leadership for Equity-Minded Change in Postsecondary Education for higher education professionals with cohort model and common 45-credit curriculum.

Career Outcomes

MSU graduates lead Michigan K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and educational organizations as principals, superintendents, and administrators.

• 1. School Superintendent
• 2. District Administrator
• 3. Principal or Assistant Principal
• 4. Education Policy Director

What You'll Learn

• Advanced leadership strategies for school improvement and organizational change.
• Policy analysis and advocacy to influence educational systems.
• Curriculum and instructional leadership for equitable student outcomes.
• Ethical decision-making and legal frameworks in educational administration.

Curriculum Highlights

K-12: Core Leadership, Research, Systems Improvement, Field Experiences, Group Capstone (Year 3); Higher Education: Higher Education Leadership Core, Individual Dissertation in Practice, Common 45-credit Curriculum

Top Employers

Common employers include public school districts, state education departments, intermediate school districts, and educational consulting firms.

Admissions

Requires a master's degree in education or related field, minimum GPA of 3.0, professional experience in K-12 education, and evidence of leadership potential; GRE is often optional.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Master's degree
• GRE/GMAT: Optional
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)