PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration (PhD)

Applications for the Oct 2026 intake are open until Oct 5, 2026, and tuition fees are 5,730 USD per year.

This is a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program in Educational Leadership focused on preparing individuals for leadership roles in education. The curriculum includes discussions of current research, self-reflection, technology applications, and case studies. It uses a cohort model for peer support and networking, with assigned advisors providing guidance for a Directed Research project. The program aims to develop knowledge in educational and servant leadership to improve organizational culture and performance.

Focus areas include Track 1, Track 2, Track 3, Track 4.

The program requires 30 credit hours, delivered online, and includes support for a Directed Research project and dissertation.

Graduates are prepared for educational leadership roles, with one alumna noted as Director of Counseling Services.

Admission requires submitting an application, a copy of certifications, and official transcripts from the highest completed degree. Specific tracks may have additional prerequisites related to existing certifications or desired new ones.

The programme totals about 30 credit hours. The program is delivered online, with some hybrid sessions available to accommodate working educators. It is designed for flexible scheduling. For international students, tuition is well below the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 100% of applicants.

Southwest Baptist University is a private Christian college founded in 1878. Its mission is to equip students academically, spiritually and socially for a lifetime of servant leadership. The university describes its community as Christ-centered and focused on preparing students to serve in a global society.

Students can choose from more than 100 academic degree programs across undergraduate, graduate and online study. Graduate offerings include master's, specialist and doctoral degrees in business administration, education, nursing and physical therapy. SBU also offers dual enrollment and dual credit options for academically talented high school juniors and seniors. Average class size is 20, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1, supporting regular interaction with professors.

The main campus is at 1600 University Avenue in Bolivar, Missouri, with additional campuses in Springfield, Salem and Mountain View. Campus life includes more than 35 student organizations and 22 varsity athletic teams. International students have a dedicated admissions category and can apply online. Applicants should expect the admissions process to involve an online application and, for most student types, official transcripts, test scores, FAFSA filing and an enrollment deposit. Online admissions can be contacted at worldwide@SBUniv.edu.