Ph.D. in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies at KU

Program Overview

The Ph.D. in educational leadership and policy at the University of Kansas is a research degree that prepares individuals for roles as researchers, policy analysts, educational leaders, and faculty members for policy, K-12, and higher education settings. This degree distinguishes itself by its focus on preparing graduates to be researchers who are making original scholarly contributions to the knowledge base in the field. Students typically take some courses in graduate programs in related fields such as sociology, public administration, and economics.

Career Outcomes in Educational Leadership & Policy

Students pursue the Ph.D. in educational leadership and policy at KU with varying career goals in mind. Ph.D. students should expect to engage in “co-curricular” activities above and beyond the specific degree requirements appropriate to their career aspirations. These include conducting and presenting research at conferences, engaging in internships with policy organizations, etc. It prepares graduates who are qualified to conduct theoretically grounded, original research on crucial issues in education policy and scholarship. Potential position titles after graduation could include:

• Professor,
• Policy maker,
• Policy analyst,
• Political activist,
• Lobbyist,
• Researcher.

The Ph.D. program does not lead to initial or advanced educator licensure in the state of Kansas.