PA

Doctor of Education (EDD)
Hybrid

University of Pittsburgh | Ed.D. Educational Leadership

  • Pittsburgh
About This Program

Pitt’s School of Education has global alumni network of 32,000+ educators and vibrant networking events. Excellent pick for inner city leadership and Black education. Center for Urban Education (CUE) active since 2003 hosts educator forums. Practices of Freedom Project develops teacher training using Black community educational knowledge. 3-year Hybrid Ed.D. in multiple topics including Education Leadership, Higher Education, and Urban Education.

Student Reviews
What You'll Learn
  • Design and implement systemic change initiatives grounded in educational leadership theory and evidence-based practice

  • Conduct rigorous empirical research to analyze complex problems of practice and produce usable knowledge
  • Develop expertise in school law, finance, human resources, and curriculum to lead diverse K-12 organizations
  • Integrate social justice and equity frameworks to advance inclusive systems and academic excellence for all students

For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Typical Curriculum Structure
The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership is a three-year doctoral program designed to prepare mid-career education professionals to serve as transformational leaders in K-12 schools, districts, and educational organizations, with emphasis on equity, social justice, and research-based practice.
Typical Course Topics
1. Foundations of Educational Leadership and Theory 2. School Law and Policy 3. Organizational Management and Finance 4. Curriculum Development and Instructional Leadership 5. Research Methods and Dissertation Development 6. Human Resources Management in Educational Settings
Program Specializations:
Urban Leadership
Higher Ed
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
Applicants typically need a master's degree or bachelor's degree with five or more years of full-time professional experience in PreK-16+ education, current full-time employment, strong analytical and writing skills, and three letters of recommendation including one from a supervisor. A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is required.
Academic Requirements (Typical)

β€’ Degree Required: Ed.D. (Doctor of Education)
β€’ GRE/GMAT: May be required or waived; check program-specific requirements
β€’ TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)

Application Materials (Typical)

β€’ Statement of Purpose: Required
β€’ Letters of Recommendation: 3 (including one from supervisor)
β€’ Resume: Required
β€’ Transcripts: Official transcripts required
β€’ Writing Sample: 400–500 word sample addressing educational leadership beliefs and philosophy of education

Application Timeline

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

Career Opportunities in AI

Pitt graduates lead schools, districts, higher education institutions, and urban education organizations as principals, superintendents, and leaders.

Estimated Industry Salary
School Principal: $98,000 District Administrator: $115,000 Curriculum Director: $92,000 Educational Leadership Consultant: $88,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
0.04%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. School Principal 2. District Administrator/Superintendent 3. Curriculum Director 4. Educational Policy Analyst
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Common employers include public school districts, charter school networks, state departments of education, and educational nonprofit organizations focused on K-12 reform and leadership development.
Program Details
Duration
  • 3.0 Year
Tuition
$ 65,500
Format
Hybrid
Specializations
Urban Leadership
Higher Ed