Earn Your Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at Jax State

Advance your career as a leader in education with the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership from Jacksonville State University. Delivered primarily online with some residency requirements, this program is designed for experienced educators who want to drive innovation and positive change in schools, districts and educational organizations.

Highlights of the program include:

  • Designed for working professionals
  • Focused on transformational leadership, research and real-world application
  • Accepts applications year-round for multiple start dates

Prepare to lead with vision, integrity and the skills to shape the future of education.

Thanks for Your Interest in Jax State!

We’ll be in touch with more information soon. In the meantime, learn more about us and how we can help you reach your goals. If you're ready to take the next step, we invite you to apply today!

Apply Today

Lead the Future with a Doctorate Degree in Education

Jacksonville State University’s EdD in Educational Leadership empowers experienced educators to take on advanced leadership roles in P-14 and higher education systems. Whether you're preparing to guide a district through change, influence education policy or lead institutional improvement, this program equips you with the vision and tools to make a lasting impact.

You'll build expertise in leadership theory, decision-making, research design, organizational change and policy analysis while learning how to apply that knowledge to drive measurable improvements in schools and communities. As a Jax State doctoral student, you’ll also benefit from dedicated faculty mentorship, personalized support and funding opportunities to help lower your tuition costs.

Potential Careers

  • Higher education
  • P-14 education
  • Public policy positions
  • Educational lobbyist
  • Social agency positions
  • Curriculum developer
  • Consultant
  • Corporate trainer

What is the difference between a PhD and an EdD?

Both are doctoral degrees, but they have different focuses. A PhD in Educational Leadership is typically research intensive and designed for those pursuing academic or research careers. An EdD, like Jax State’s program, is practice focused and prepares working professionals to lead change and drive innovation in educational settings.

Is the EdD the same as a degree in Organizational Leadership?

Not exactly. While both programs focus on leadership skills, Jax State’s EdD is specifically designed for educational leaders working in P-14, higher education and policy settings. If you are looking for a broader leadership program outside of education, an MBA with an emphasis on Organizational Leadership may be a better fit.

Is Jax State’s EdD program fully online?

The program is delivered primarily online, with some residency requirements that allow students to connect, collaborate and build leadership skills in a practice-focused setting.

Hear What Our Alumni Have to Say

I pursued the EdD to enhance my professional leadership skills, and through this program, I've developed a multitude of new skills and have grown both personally and professionally.
NaTaysia Holloway, EdD, 2022 Graduate

Empowered by The Friendliest Campus in the South

At Jax State, we understand the unique challenges adult learners face while balancing work, family and education. We provide resources specific to online learning to help you succeed in a flexible environment, in addition to mental health counseling, financial aid assistance and more.

Learn from Expert Faculty with Real-World Experience

Jax State’s EdD faculty bring practice-focused experience from leadership roles in P-14 schools, higher education administration and policy organizations. You’ll learn from mentors who understand the challenges of today’s educational landscape and who are committed to helping you lead transformative change.

Investing in Your Future

We offer affordable tuition rates at Jax State to make education more accessible to working professionals. With financial aid options, scholarship opportunities for specific fields and scholarships for military, first responders and educators, you can invest in your education with less financial stress. Our programs are also designed to provide a strong return on investment, helping you reach your goals and make a positive impact in your field.

If you have questions, please call the Financial Aid Office at 256-782-5006.

If you have questions, please call the Financial Aid Office at 256-782-5006.

Meet Your Admissions Team

We understand that navigating the graduate application and admissions process can be overwhelming. That’s why our team is here to help you at every stage. Whether you have questions about financial aid, program prerequisites or balancing your current commitments, we are here to guide you through it all.

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Let us know the best way to keep in touch so we can help you achieve your career goals.

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Apply to Jax State Today!

By applying to one of Jax State's graduate programs, you're setting yourself up to advance your career and discover exciting new opportunities. Now's the perfect time to take the leap and unlock your potential! Once you have applied, you’ll receive these benefits:

  • Guidance from admissions specialists for each program
  • An expedited admissions decision
  • A range of competitive scholarship opportunities

Questions? We’re Here to Help!

We want to ensure you have all the information you need about your application, our programs or anything else. Please call or text us, or send us an email with any questions you may have.