Online PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development – Specialization in Higher Education Administration
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PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development – Specialization in Higher Education Administration, Online
The online PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development (ELOD) with a specialization in Higher Education Administration (HEA) provides a comprehensive, executive-style program for senior-level administrators at higher education institutions in Kentucky and across the nation.
With an emphasis on research, this program empowers leaders like you to address the most pressing challenges across postsecondary systems, blending rigorous research training, real-world knowledge application and a supportive cohort experience.
The online PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development with a specialization in Higher Education Administration is offered through the College of Education and Human Development which has been consistently ranked among the Best in the Nation by US News & World Report for its graduate education programs, academic excellence and student support.
UofL's Online PhD ELOD-HEA
Online Courses + In-Person Immersive Sessions = An Engaging Academic Experience. Apply today and advance your career in higher education!
Online PhD in ELOD-HEA
The Big Picture
The online PhD in Higher Education Administration is designed for professionals who want to lead the future of higher education. This program provides research opportunities in areas like Student Experience and Campus Environments, Equity and Experiences in Postsecondary Education and more that will allow you to utilize what you have learned to shape the policy and procedures of your university or institution. Graduates of this program will emerge with an expert-level understanding of the current challenges and opportunities facing higher education and will be ideally positioned to lead higher education institutions into the future!
Online PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree Highlights
- Develop advanced expertise in higher education leadership, governance, finance and organizational change
- Asynchronous and synchronous online learning paired with impactful in-person experiences and deep focus on research (one of the few doctoral programs nationwide to integrate these three approaches)
- Cohort-based learning model for peer support, collaborative research and networking opportunities
- Guidance from faculty at UofL – a Carnegie R1 research institution – with deep expertise in higher education leadership and policy
- Opportunity to advance your career, shape higher-education policy and lead institutional transformation, all online with some immersive in-person components
- Option to complete your degree in as little as 4 years, depending on the timeline of the dissertation
In-Person Components for the PhD ELOD Program
Each of the 4 required in-person experiences is designed to build community, deepen learning and expand your professional network:
- Summer Intensive on-campus session (3.5 days, on campus at the University of Louisville in June) at the University of Louisville during your first term and first course, LEAD 710.
- Annual participation (3 times across the program, Years 1-3) at the Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE) Conference, held each November. For more information, visit the ASHE site.
Specific dates and arrangements for the on-campus (first term Summer Intensive) experience and the annual ASHE conferences will be coordinated with the program. Students will receive specific information from faculty members well in advance to ensure proper coordination and communication.
Traveling to Louisville
To be present for the in-person experiences, students should plan to fly into and depart from the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF). There is a list of nearby hotels which students can find here. Students will be required to plan and pay for any accommodation they require during their time in Louisville.
ASHE Conferences Accommodation
Students will receive information for the ASHE Conferences ahead of the event dates to appropriately plan for travel and accommodation requirements. Each student is responsible for funding their travel, incidentals, meals and accommodation.
"We are excited to launch the Online PhD ELOD program here at the University of Louisville, where students will experience a carefully designed program that will expose participants to theories, methodologies and hands-on research opportunities, all while students can continue their professional careers. We know the importance of delivering flexible learning opportunities to students while supporting their success in the program and in their careers."
Casey George, PhD
Program Director, Online PhD ELOD-HEA
Associate Professor of Higher Education Administration
Become a higher education leader and change-maker. Earn a research-driven online PhD while working full-time!
Take the first steps towards earning the title of “Doctor” in Higher Education, today!
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How to Apply to UofL’s Online PhD in ELOD-HEA Degree
Check out typical application deadlines for the online PhD in Higher Education Administration degree at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| February 10* | Summer | June (Orientation and first course begins) |
*Application deadline subject to change.
Note: the application deadline helps you complete the application, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. The review committee admits students once per year and the cohort begins in the summer term. We recommend that you submit your complete application well in advance of the deadline, as obtaining official transcripts and other materials required for admission may take longer than expected.
How to Apply for the Online PhD in ELOD-HEA
- Start your application for graduate admission
- Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
- Upload required materials*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
- Create a financial plan
What Admissions Requirements Are for the Online PhD in ELOD-HEA
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
- A master's degree from an accredited institution
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale for prior undergraduate and graduate degrees (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- Prior academic and professional experience in their field of interest
*Required application packet materials include:
- A one-page personal statement describing the applicant’s background and interest in PhD ELOD (more details here)
- Two letters of recommendation (academic references preferred, but required for all applicants whose undergraduate work was completed within the last five years)
- Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Analysis essay:
- Analysis essay should demonstrate some level of analysis and be between 2,500 and 3,000 words (8-10 pages double-spaced) not including a title page, references or citations, tables, figures or graphs.
- Include any references to literature and empirical research sources that you use to help shape your analytic essay.
- Analysis essay does not need to be on a topic that you think you would like to focus on in doctoral studies, but it can be. Ultimately, we are interested in learning more about how you present a topic, offer competing perspectives and your analysis associated with that discussion.
- To ensure that we support equity, inclusion and a holistic review process, the following materials are optional:
- Interview (at the discretion of the admissions committee; candidates will be contacted post-application)
- GRE Scores may be sent if completed within the last 5 years
- Any academic or published works or creative artifacts you have been a part of or produced
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Online PhD in ELOD-HEA for International Students
The online PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development with a Specialization in Higher Education Administration is open to international students. If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to review these additional admission requirements for international students.
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselor through an information request.
How Much It Costs to Earn an Online PhD in ELOD-HEA Degree at UofL
Academic Year Tuition
$850 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate$500.00 per term online PhD program fee— covers books, software licenses and program-supported experiences at the Summer Intensive and ASHE.
All online courses will be assessed an additional fee of $10/credit hour per University of Louisville policies.
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many employers often have programs available to assist their employees financially in their educational pursuits. Do not miss out on any potential opportunities. Reach out to your organization’s HR department to learn about available options.
Still have questions? Contact our enrollment team today to get more information!
What You Learn in the Online PhD in ELOD-HEA
Online Courses
The online PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development with a specialization in Higher Education Administration is a 60 credit hour program, including 33 credit hours in core courses and electives, 15 credit hours in research methodology and 12 credit hours for dissertation development. Courses are 8-week long and delivered online, with asynchronous and synchronous sessions.
Additional webinars and events will be offered throughout the program to support students’ professional and personal development while they are enrolled at the University of Louisville.
To see all available online courses and degree requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
The PhD in Higher Education Administration curriculum blends advanced leadership theory, higher education policy and rigorous research training to prepare graduates for executive and academic roles. Doctoral coursework explores topics such as organizational leadership, governance and finance in higher education, student access and success, strategic planning, assessment, qualitative and quantitative research methods and dissertation development.
Through a structured progression of core courses and research-focused study, students gain the expertise needed to conduct original research, evaluate complex education systems and lead institutional change in higher education settings.
Take the next step with confidence.
Start working on your application and feel free to connect with us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
What Can I Do with a PhD in ELOD-HEA?
The Educational Leadership and Organizational Development PhD program, in tandem with your extensive experience, can enhance your ability to drive powerful, lasting organizational changes at the highest levels of academia and administration.
UofL's online PhD program prepares senior leaders at colleges, universities and other postsecondary organizations to conduct research and foster innovation that drives organizational development. This terminal degree in higher education administration helps bridge the gap between research and practice, positioning graduates as thought leaders in higher education.
There are over 5,000 degree-granting postsecondary institutions in the U.S. (according to the National Center for Education Statistics) and there are "about 15,300 openings for postsecondary education administrations projected each year, on average, over the next decade" (bls.gov).
What kind of jobs will this degree prepare me for?
The Online PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development with a specialization in Higher Education Administration can elevate your experience and prepare you for various career advancement pathways.
Graduates of the PhD in Higher Education Administration are prepared for high-impact leadership, academic and research roles across postsecondary education and related organizations, including:
Executive and Senior Leadership Roles
- Dean or associate dean
- Online learning director
- Digital access specialist, director or vice provost
- Chief academic or strategy officer
- Provost or vice provost
- President or vice president for academic or student affairs
Faculty and Academic Affairs Roles
- Tenure-track or clinical faculty member
- Academic program director
- Department chair
- Director of assessment or accreditation
Policy, Research and System-Level Roles
- Higher education policy analyst
- Institutional research director
- Higher education curriculum specialist
- Education consultant
- Research fellow or think-tank analyst
Annual median salaries for these careers can range from $74,750 to $104,000 with an average projected job growth of 3% from 2025 through 2033 (bls.gov.)
Career opportunities and earnings vary based on actual job role, geographic location, prior experience and employer. These figures reflect overall industry trends and are not a guarantee of individual results.
Why get an online PhD in Higher Education Administration?
This program allows you to work towards earning your PhD on a schedule that works in tandem with your obligations, so that you can earn the title of "Doctor," without putting your career on pause. We understand that working professionals lead busy lives: work obligations, family and more all demand your time. This program was carefully crafted with those time constraints in mind.
Higher Education – PhD Program Research Labs
While enrolled in the online PhD ELOD-HEA at UofL, doctorate students will participate in one of the following research labs during their third year of study, working closely with faculty members to gain research experience and develop their dissertation topics. Here is why it matters:
- These labs will be conducted under the direction of a faculty member, who will also serve as advisor. Participants will work in a group of 4-5 students; this strategy supports a meaningful and structured approach to learning the integrative aspects of research problems, study design and contributions, research methodologies, analytical approaches and study implications.
- These labs also help students prepare papers to present at academic research conferences and to publish.
- Lab-related research and writing will occur within courses, purposefully designed to allow students to pursue different topics within their lab’s focus.
Student Experience and Campus Environments with Dr. Jessica B. Buckley
The Student Experience and Campus Environments (XEN) Lab examines the ways (a) students from diverse backgrounds and across levels of higher education experience campus environments and (b) ways institutional actors and sociocultural forces influence environments. Our research focuses on broad campus climates, specific learning environments (such as classrooms, disciplines, co-curricular activities), learning and belonging.
Equity and Experiences in Postsecondary Education with Dr. Casey E. George
The EEPE research lab is driven by concerns for equity and access to opportunities in postsecondary settings, with a focus on how programs and policies impact subgroups of interest. The EEPE research agenda is comprised of three strands:
1) Climate, Sense of Belonging, and Inclusion
2) College Affordability and Tuition Transparency
3) Postsecondary Programs and Policies.
The EEPE lab seeks to influence practice of postsecondary organizations and administrators through dissemination and use of its research findings.
Pathways to Opportunity Lab with Dr. Jacob Gross
The Pathways to Opportunity Lab, housed within the Center for Economic Education, examines how educational resources, policies, and institutional practices shape equitable pathways from college access to workforce opportunity. Our work focuses on understanding how financial, social and structural supports promote or constrain postsecondary success and long-term economic mobility, particularly for students historically underrepresented in higher education, including those from foster care backgrounds, first-generation college students and students from low-income households.
Civil Rights and Liberties Lab, led by Dr. Jeffrey C. Sun
The Civil Rights and Liberties lab examines the extent to which policy instruments or
other legal actions (e.g., government mandates, judicial decisions, and legally binding, negotiated agreements) advance or inhibit the academic operations in terms of college teaching, learning and knowledge creation. Centered around concepts of civil rights and civil liberties, this lab interrogates research questions intended to improve campus practices and policies, guide courts in understanding the higher education content and priorities and encourage policymakers in developing responsive approaches on matters that advance the academic operations. Studies within this lab draws on legal case decisions, organizational or policy theory and a systems-based perspective to characterize and interrogate questions about fairness, accountability and campus conduct.
Research on Race Equity & Gender in Education (R2EGE) lab, led by Dr. Joshua Wallace
The Research on Race Equity & Gender in Education (R2EGE) Laboratory (pronounced r eh - j ee / “Reggie”) utilizes interdisciplinary and multi-method approaches to explore
race and gender equity in education. Activities within the lab include conducting interviews, focus groups, data analysis, manuscript development, survey development, writing for publication, as well as the preparation and dissemination of promotional information.
In this competitive landscape, a PhD can distinguish you as a thought leader who can bridge research and practice to drive system-wide innovation. Let us explore how the Higher Ed Administration PhD can help you make the impact you have envisioned.
Chart your professional future today!
What Your Support Network Looks Like
Success in a doctoral program requires more than strong coursework – it requires the right support. From application through graduation, our students are backed by a knowledgeable team that understands the demands of working professionals. Enrollment counselors, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Cameron Murray-Hicks | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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Casey George | Program Director | caseye.george@louisville.edu | 502.852.0637 |
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
What Else Should You Know?
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, delivery method, application and admission process, dissertation or how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
Can I apply to the online program regardless of my location?
Yes. We encourage students to apply regardless of their location or institutional affiliation. The program faculty will make admissions decisions based on a holistic review of the qualifications, motivations, experiences and interests of the applicants while also considering the program's goals. This program is primarily designed to serve individuals from across the country so that they can pursue and benefit from a rigorous, research-centered doctoral program without having to relocate to Louisville or pause their careers.
Can I start the program in the fall or spring semesters?
Cohorts begin the program in the Summer, with an in-person, 3-day summer intensive orientation session held in June as a part of the first course, LEAD 710.
Can I complete this program fully online?
While most coursework is completed online, this program includes some required in-person components designed to elevate your learning experience. These include the Summer Intensive session at UofL, hosted in June during your first year (part of LEAD 710) and annual attendance at the ASHE Conference in Year 1, 2 and 3.
What will in-person experiences be like?
The required in-person experiences will occur 1-2 times per year and will focus on bringing cohorts together for face-to-face learning experiences. An in-person orientation at the University of Louisville will be required during the summer term when students begin their program as a part of the first course, LEAD 710. Additional required in-person sessions will take place at learning events such as annual meetings of professional organizations (e.g., the Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE)). These in-person experiences will allow for exposure to current research, networking and professional development.
Students are responsible for paying for their travel and other accommodation expenses to and from these in-person events and are encouraged to work with their employers to identify professional development funds to help offset the cost of attendance.
What happens if I cannot attend an in-person event?
Attendance is expected and required. However, the program understands that life circumstances arise. In such cases, students will work with faculty to determine an online alternative that mirrors the learning outcomes of the in-person experience.
What are the hands-on research opportunities with faculty?
The cohorts will be divided up into smaller groups and assigned to research labs. In the research lab, you will work closely with a LEAD faculty member on a specific topic or theme in higher education. These research experiences will be embedded within the cognate area courses and will help you develop your dissertation ideas and study.
What is supported by the $500.00 program fee?
The program fee is designed to simplify costs and ensure you have what you need to succeed in this executive-style program. It covers:
- All required books and course materials
- Subscriptions and software licenses for coursework and research
- Program-supported experiences at the Summer Intensive and ASHE conferences
This consolidated fee means you won’t need to purchase course materials out of pocket and it allows us to provide a consistent, high-quality experience across the cohort. All students enrolled in the online PhD in ELOD-HEA program will be required to pay the $500 fee per term.
As a UofL employee, how do I take advantage of the university tuition remission benefit?
If a full-time employee is admitted and enrolls in the online PhD in ELOD-HEA, they will progress through the program taking 2 courses (6 credit hours) per semester, as all students will do so in the program based on its design. Students must progress at this pace to remain within their cohort, which is one of the key features of the program.
Part-time employees will need to pay for the 2nd course each semester out of pocket as they need to enroll in both courses each semester to progress through the program with their cohort. It is important to note that the 2 courses in each semester are purposefully connected to each other and learning will be scaffolded across the 2 courses.
There is a program fee of $500/term that would not be covered by the tuition remission program and would be the responsibility of the employee/student to pay (in addition to other fees normally assessed to graduate students).
What are the course sequence and program structure for the PhD online degree?
Students take one 3-credit hour course at a time in each (approximately) 5-week term in summer or 8-week term in fall and spring. In fall of year 3, students take their comprehensive exams to qualify for doctoral candidacy. Students are allowed up to 4 years to complete their dissertations/degree after becoming doctoral candidates. During this period, students may register for additional courses/hours of LEAD 795 or DOCT 600 to maintain candidacy until they complete their degrees. The final timeline for completion of the program is dependent on the timeline required for the dissertation.