University of Pennsylvania

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 to Ed.D. programs in Educational Leadership typically hold a master's degree in education or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0, several years of professional experience in education, and evidence of leadership potential. GRE scores are often optional, with emphasis on professional background and research interests.

About This Program

Penn's Mid-Career Ed.D. in Educational Leadership is designed for accomplished education professionals and senior leaders ready to deepen expertise and drive meaningful change. The program blends online courses with monthly weekend meetings and week-long summer sessions. Penn has created 7 doctorates in education total, with multiple tracks including Chief Learning Officer Ed.D. and Executive Doctorate in Higher Education Management. The Graduate School of Education is committed to personalized experience with ~1,600 students and 40 tenured faculty.

Career Outcomes

Penn graduates lead at the district, state, and national levels, guiding organizational transformation and instructional improvement.

• 1. School Superintendent
• 2. District Administrator
• 3. Education Policy Director
• 4. Chief Academic Officer

What You'll Learn

• Develop strategies for leading school improvement and systemic change.
• Analyze and influence educational policy at district and state levels.
• Design and implement effective curriculum and instructional leadership.
• Conduct action research to address real-world educational challenges.

Curriculum Highlights

Core Courses: Educational Leadership, Research Methods (Qualitative & Quantitative), Organizational Theory & Practice, School Finance, Policy Analysis; Specialization Tracks: Mid-Career Leadership, Chief Learning Officer, Higher Education Management; Capstone: Dissertation in Practice

Top Employers

Common employers include public school districts, state education departments, university systems, and educational nonprofits.

Admissions

Applicants to Ed.D. programs in Educational Leadership typically hold a master's degree in education or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0, several years of professional experience in education, and evidence of leadership potential. GRE scores are often optional, with emphasis on professional background and research interests.

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 100+ / IELTS 7.0+)