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Leadership for Higher Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Prepare to lead postsecondary education organizations with an online PhD in Education, Leadership for Higher Education from Capella University. This program combines recognized theory and best practices with practical application to help you meet the challenges of higher education.

Your coursework and doctoral studies will help you develop the research, problem-solving, and leadership skills to guide traditional and distance education programs—and help tomorrow’s students succeed.

Virtual Residency Courses

Make progress toward your dissertation with virtual residencies and credit-bearing doctoral project development seminars blended into your coursework.

Extensive doctoral support

Experts will support you throughout your degree to help you meet doctoral challenges and reach your short- and long-term goal.

Professionally aligned curriculum

Every assignment, course, and program is designed to deliver the knowledge and expertise required for success in the field of education.

Classes start October 9

Use the code MSFALL to waive the $50 application fee.

At a glance

  • Online & in-person
  • 6 Core courses
  • 8 Specialization courses
  • 3 Elective courses
  • 3 Virtual Residencies
  • Comprehensive exam
  • Dissertation

Reduce your tuition by $5,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $5K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

What can you do with a PhD in Education degree?

Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PhD in Education, Leadership for Higher Education.

Related job titles to explore*

  • President
  • Provost
  • Vice president for academic affairs
  • Full-time faculty of education courses
  • Vice president for student affairs
  • Director of alumni relations
  • Director of academic advising
  • Director of student retention
  • Dean of diversity affairs
  • Dean of student affairs
  • Dean of external relations
  • Director of institutional research

Employment settings to explore

  • Land-based or online college or university
  • Community college
  • Adult education organization
  • Military education
  • Higher education research and policy organization
  • For-profit institution
  • Continuing education program
  • Technical college

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

Doctoral Guide

Wondering about the differences between PhDs and professional doctorates? What are the unique features of online and traditional doctoral programs? Read on to learn more and find the right program for you.

The Difference Between an EdD and PhD in Ed

Choosing to pursue a PhD or EdD depends on your career goals and whether applied or original research most interests you.

Doctoral Journey

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.