First cohort starting Summer 2026

Program Overview

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. 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.

You will emerge with skills in data-driven decision-making, analytical methods and strategic leadership to advance innovation, shape policy and create lasting change across the academic landscape while advancing your career. This program offers a strategic combination of online courses (with asynchronous and synchronous sessions) and in-person immersive experiences, hands-on qualitative and quantitative research opportunities and learning guided by nationally recognized faculty.

Online PhD in ELOD-HEA Highlights

• Complete your degree in as little as 4 years, depending on the timeline of the dissertation.
• 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.
• Hands-on research labs aligned to your professional goals from the first year of study.
• Guidance from faculty at a Carnegie R1 research institution with deep expertise in higher education leadership and policy.

In-Person Components

• Each of the 4 required in-person experiences is designed to build community, deepen learning and expand your professional network:
• Summer Intensive on-campus (3.5 days, on campus at the University of Louisville in June) session at the University of Louisville during your first term and first course, LEAD 710.
• Annual participation (three times across the program, Years 1-3) in 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.

Online PhD in ELOD-HEA Outcomes

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.

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 decade," (bls.gov).

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.

Why get an online PhD?

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. 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.

Inaugural cohort starting Summer 2026 – trailblazers, leaders and innovators are invited to join! Connect with us by submitting a request for more information, and let's get you started!