The University of Texas at Austin

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: Applicants typically hold a master's degree or bachelor's degree with significant professional experience in higher education. The program requires demonstrated commitment to equity-minded leadership, strong writing ability, and employer endorsement of the candidate's pursuit of the degree.[1

About This Program

UT Austin offers two flagship Ed.D. programs. The Cooperative Superintendency Program (CSP) is highly ranked and designed for aspiring superintendents with real-world application and cohort collaboration. The Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership is blended with online and on-campus work, teaching technology in education and student success. The College of Education prioritizes research-driven policy changes and has centers focused on Texas challenges.

Career Outcomes

UT Austin graduates lead as superintendents, district executives, higher education leaders, and education policy makers in Texas and nationally.

• 1. Vice President of Student Affairs
• 2. Dean of Students or Academic Dean
• 3. Higher Education Administrator
• 4. Director of Enrollment Management or Institutional Research

What You'll Learn

• Assessment, evaluation, and research methodology in higher education contexts
• Higher education law, policy, governance, and Title IV administration
• Organizational management and human resources leadership in academic institutions
• Student success initiatives, retention strategies, and inclusive campus climate development

Curriculum Highlights

CSP: School Restructuring & Renewal, School District Functions, Superintendent Practicum, Social Science Core (Organizational Design, Finance, Social Contexts, Politics & Policy), Dissertation; Executive: Technology in Education, Student Success, Policy & Governance

Top Employers

Top employers include major research universities, comprehensive state universities, private colleges, and higher education management consulting firms.

Admissions

Applicants typically hold a master's degree or bachelor's degree with significant professional experience in higher education. The program requires demonstrated commitment to equity-minded leadership, strong writing ability, and employer endorsement of the candidate's pursuit of the degree.[1

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required (4-6 page writing sample addressing career goals, research interests, and fit for the program)[1]
• Letters of Recommendation: One academic recommendation from a faculty member or advisor[1]
• Employer Support Letter: Required, ideally from direct supervisor acknowledging commitment to complete the program[1]
• Resume: Required
• Official Transcripts: Required

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Master's degree preferred; bachelor's with relevant professional experience acceptable
• GRE/GMAT: Not Required[1]
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)