Program Overview
Doctorate in Education
Overview
Educational leaders are called to engage in the profound transformation of themselves, their students, fellow educators, and the broader educational system—pursuing the “full realization of human potential” (BYU Mission Statement) and striving to build a society where all are “of one heart and one mind… and there [are] no poor among [us]” (see Moses 7:18). As a doctoral student in Educational Leadership, you will:
- Become steward leaders who internalize the principle of stewardship—faithfully serving those you lead and representing the communities you uplift as you navigate and shape educational systems.
- Become moral agents of improvement who champion educational equity through intentional collaboration with educators and stakeholders, grounded in a shared vision of learning that drives sustainable, systemic reform.
- Become scholarly practitioners who skillfully analyze, critique, design, and apply research to meaningfully enhance and transform educational practices and institutions.
Upon completion of this program, you will emerge as a more Christ-like educational leader—anchored in faith and committed to service. You will lead with the love, humility, and selfless devotion exemplified by Christ, leaving a transformative and enduring impact on the world around you.
Important Note to Prospective Students: A minimum of 12 students is required for this cohort to carry, otherwise the cohort will be canceled for the year. Learn More
Course Map
Detailed Course List
Year
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Year
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Year
3
Prerequisites
- A Master's Degree or three years of leadership experience in an educational setting before beginning the program. A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) during the last 60 hours of coursework.
2. One of the following three graduate admissions tests, at the following level of performance (test must be taken within five years of application):
- GRE, with each sub‐test score at or above the 50th percentile;
- LSAT, with a test score at or above the 60th percentile; and/or
- GMAT, with a test score at or above the 50th percentile.
3. A clear statement in the letter of intent that describes how the Ed.D. will facilitate advancement in the applicant’s current career trajectory.
Current Students
Class Session Schedule
Classes are held every other “weekend,” which includes time on Fridays and Saturdays. Please follow this link to see our current schedule.
EDLF Dissertation & Graduation Deadlines
As students progress through their dissertation experience, and prepare to defend their work and graduate, there are numerous deadlines to be aware of. This link will open up a Word document the lists these deadlines for each semester and term.
MSE Dissertation Aids
The McKay School offers several aids for students as they enter the Dissertation phase of their program. Students should take advantage of the information that is found on their website.
Graduation Requirements
- 39 hours of coursework
- 12 dissertation hours
- Complete a thesis defense
- Apply for graduation through AIM
- Complete all ADV forms
Application Steps
- Online applicant form
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Previous Transcripts with minimum 3.0 GPA
- Graduate exam score
- Ecclesiastical Endorsement
Statement of Intent
Application Details
BYU Grad Studies Application
Note to Prospective Students: If a minimum of 12 students is not met, the cohort will be canceled for the year.
