This major offers the following option(s):

• Community College Leadership
• Leadership in Higher Education

EdM available only via Ecampus.

The College of Education offers graduate programs leading to a major in Adult and Higher Education with degrees in Master of Education (EdM), Doctor of Education (EdD), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), as well as Masters of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS).

Master of Education (EdM)

The Master of Education (EdM) degree in Adult and Higher Education is designed for working professionals to enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities to serve adult learners in a number of settings. These can include for-profit corporations, not-for-profit agencies, community organizations, and various higher education settings. This program is guided by the Academy of Human Resource Development Standards, a professional organization recognized internationally.

Doctoral Degrees (EdD, PhD)

The Adult and Higher Education doctoral degrees offer two options in Community College Leadership (CCL) and Leadership in Higher Education (LHE). Candidates pursue their chosen option either in an EdD or PhD degree, depending upon the purpose and approach of their research study and the intended role to be sought after successful completion of the degree. Both options require completion of courses in foundational and research cores, internship hours, and thesis/dissertation.

Doctor of Education (EdD) Degree

The Doctor of Education degree prepares professionals for faculty/administrative leadership roles in a variety of positions in community colleges or other higher education settings. Candidates must have appropriate professional experience that enables them to benefit from the stated program outcomes. Examples of experience include teaching, student services, administration, finance, curriculum specialist, support staff, or supervisor in an educational related setting.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree

The Doctor of Philosophy degree prepares professionals for research, administration, and professorial roles in higher education settings. Candidates must have significant experience in an education or education-related setting such as teaching, leadership administration, curriculum specialist, supervisor, etc., where the primary function is education. Knowledge of educational research methodology is highly desirable.

Major Code: 2075

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The EdM in Adult and Higher Education Masters degree requires a minimum of 45 quarter credits.

EdD Requirements

1. Complete a minimum of 114 graduate credits beyond the baccalaureate degree.
2. An earned master's degree. Up to 36 credits may be credited toward the required graduate credits.
3. At least 24 thesis/dissertation credits.
4. A mentored internship in an appropriate work setting for a minimum of 6 credits.
5. Complete all required courses in one option.

PhD Requirements

1. Complete a minimum of 120 graduate credits beyond the baccalaureate degree.
2. An earned master's degree. Up to 33 credits may be credited toward the required graduate credits.
3. A mentored internship in an appropriate research setting for a minimum of 3 credits.
4. At least 36 thesis/dissertation credits.
5. Complete all required courses in one option. 

Major Code: 2075