The Doctor of Philosophy with an emphasis in Educational Administration/Educational Leadership and Organizational Development encompasses five specialties: P-12 Administration, Post-secondary Administration, Sport Administration, Human Resource Development, and Evaluation. It prepares graduates to understand and perform basic and applied research in their specialty area.
It is REQUIRED that you visit with the ELFH Doctoral coordinator or one of our faculty members for more detailed information and about the program before starting the application process. Your application cannot be processed without evidence of a telephone or office pre consultation.
A complete list of program information and application materials are available under 'Curriculum' and 'Admissions' links above. The "Dear Applicant" letter under 'Admissions' will get you started.
The program offers five areas of emphasis which are listed below. To learn more, just click on the area of specialization.
"The doctoral program in educational leadership and organizational development is an extremely rewarding experience particularly in light of the fact that the faculty and staff’s flexibility and knowledge allow me to focus my research in areas that hold great interest for me."
Matthew Kingsley, Doctoral Student
"The Educational Leadership and Organizational Development doctoral program has contributed significantly to my knowledge and growth as a researcher and evaluator. As a student I have had the opportunity to conduct and publish research with some of the brightest and well-respected minds in their given field of study. I have been most impressed by the accessibility and genuine support provided by all of the faculty and staff."
Timothy Sauer, Doctoral Student
"My distinctive experience in the PhD program has been one beyond my imagination. The rigorous curriculum has been one of intellectual stimulation, strengthening an active interest and curiosity in educational research and critical evaluation. My experiences with the doctoral program have endowed me with the determination and confidence to pursue the career in academia. The opportunities afforded have given me passion to continue my education in the historical and philosophical foundations of research and public education."
Brittany Carpenter, Ph.D. Graduate 2011
The advisor and members of the Program Committee help the individual design a program of study. Normally this should be done almost immediately after admission. The student has no "official contract" until the program is signed by the three members of Program Committee.
The program requires a minimum of 90 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate degree. Courses from previous graduate work may be counted toward the 90 hours. At least 45 of the 90 hours must be earned at UofL. These 45 hours will include the 18 hours fulfilling residency and the 12 hours required for dissertation credit.
Professional Specialty (42 hours). Each student will choose one of five specializations. The particular coursework in any student's program will vary according to specific specialization requirements, program Committee decisions, and individual background and interests.
These 12 hours are required for all students in all specializations
Knowledge Development and Utilization (27 hours). Each student will carry out a substantial, creative project of scholarly quality. In developing dissertation topics, students are required to select topics that enable them to demonstrate the ability to conduct inquiry into processes and problems of educational institutions or community organizations. This component includes:
Electives (21 hours). This component allows considerable flexibility in planning a program.
Meeting Course and Program Requirements and Residency. Students should meet with their advisor to plan the scheduling of courses for several semesters at a time. Students must be enrolled (= registered) at the University of Louisville for a minimum of 18 hours within a 12-month period to meet the residency requirement. These hours must be completed during or after formal admission to the doctoral program.
There are two time limits for completion of the doctoral program: (1) Within five years after admission into the doctoral program students must complete all coursework and pass the comprehensive exams; and (2) the student must complete all other requirements for the degree within four years after passing the comprehensive examination and being admitted to candidacy. A doctoral degree student must have been admitted to candidacy not later than the end of the ninth month prior to the awarding of the degree, that is:
The PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development has five specialties as described under Specialties.
The following must be completed before your application will be considered. First, speak with the Program Coordinator before applying either by phone or in person, whichever is mutually convenient.
In addition to the regular information in a resume or curriculum vita, include: home and office e-mail addresses; scholarly/professional writings and creative activities; active involvement and leadership in professional and community activities; and professional and academic honors and recognitions. It is important that the academic and professional experience of applicants match the educational focus of the program curriculum and the educational and professional orientation of the program faculty.
Prepare a formal statement that describes (1) your detailed rationale for pursuing doctoral degree and (2) your research interest(s). State which track of the PhD program you are applying for. Discuss your interest in doctoral study, indicating how your personal and professional goals, professional experiences, and commitment to education, learning, and research are congruent with a doctoral program in educational leadership and organization development. More specifically, relate your goals to a particular specialization(s). Include a clear statement about your research interest(s) and goals, and how this doctoral program will help you achieve those goals. Members will expect a statement of at least 1,500 words. Please keep in mind that the statement of goals also serves as a sample of your writing ability and the Admissions Committee will review it in this light.
The above materials help members of the Admission Committee answer these questions:
Send ALL materials to:
University of Louisville
Office of Graduate Admissions
105 Houchens
Louisville, KY 40292
NOTE TO P-12 APPLICANTS: Admission to a certification program or to a Rank I program requires separate paperwork. Ask for the proper forms from your advisor. As a general rule, doing the paperwork after the doctoral application process will be most sensible and efficient.
There are two (2) review cycles each year. The specific dates are stated in a document included in the application packet. Given the submission of all required materials, Admission Committee members review the materials during these cycles. Once application materials have been reviewed by committee members, the Admission Committee meets to select some applicants for interviews. Upon completing interviews with selected prospective students, the Admission Committee decides either to recommend or reject the applicant for admission and advises applicants in writing of this decision. Accepted applicants will receive a letter that informs them of their appointed academic adviser with whom they will discuss the next steps to start the program.
Department of Leadership, Foundations, & Human Resource Education
College of Education and Human Development
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY 40292
502-852-6475
Post-Secondary Education - Dr. Bridgette Pregliasco
Advanced positions in the fields of education, training and development. Positions as a university professor in the field of education and human resource education. Positions in the fields of educational research and policy.