IL

Doctor of Education (EDD)
On-Campus

University of Illinois Chicago | Ed.D. Urban Education Leadership

  • Chicago
About This Program

UIC’s flagship Ed.D. in Urban Education Leadership is highly selective and designed for aspiring and current school principals. Intensive, cohort-based combining coursework with supervised practicum. After 1.5 years, students are eligible for Illinois Principal Endorsement. After 2.5-3 years and capstone, earn doctorate recognized as Exemplary Educational Leadership Preparation Program by UCEA. 1 in 9 CPS principals trained at UIC. Can add Illinois Superintendent Endorsement with additional courses.

Student Reviews
Write a Review
What You'll Learn

  • Lead urban schools with a focus on equity and cultural competence.

  • Analyze and influence education policy in diverse urban contexts.
  • Implement organizational change and team-building in educational settings.
  • Conduct action research to address problems of practice in urban education.

For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Visit Official Program Website
Typical Curriculum Structure
The Ed.D. in Urban Education Leadership is a three-year doctoral program preparing mid-career educators for leadership roles in urban school systems, emphasizing equity, policy, and organizational change.
Typical Course Topics
1. Urban School Leadership 2. Equity and Social Justice in Education 3. Policy Analysis for Urban Districts 4. Curriculum Leadership in Diverse Communities 5. Organizational Change in Urban Schools 6. Research Methods for Educational Practice
Program Specializations:
Urban Leadership
Admin
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
Requires a master's degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, at least five years of full-time professional experience in PreK-16 education or related fields, and demonstrated leadership potential. Current full-time employment and strong analytical/writing skills are typically expected.
Academic Requirements (Typical)

• Degree Required: Master’s degree
• GRE/GMAT: Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)

Application Materials (Typical)

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Application Timeline

Most programs have rolling admissions or deadlines in early winter for fall admission. Check the official program website for exact dates.

Check Application Deadlines
Career Opportunities in AI

UIC graduates lead Chicago Public Schools and urban school districts as principals and superintendents with focus on equity and social justice.

Estimated Industry Salary
School Superintendent: $150,000 Urban District Administrator: $130,000 Education Policy Director: $120,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
8%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Urban School Superintendent 2. District-Level Administrator 3. Education Policy Analyst 4. Equity and Inclusion Director
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Top employers include urban public school districts, city education departments, nonprofit education reform organizations, and state education agencies.
Explore AI Career Paths
Program Details
Duration
  • 4.0 Year
Tuition
$ 60,000
Format
On-Campus
Specializations
Urban Leadership
Admin
Official Resources
Program Website
Request Information