The College of Education at MSU is set to launch its inaugural education doctorate in the fall semester of 2025. Specifically designed to cater to full-time working students, the Doctor of Education in Leading, Learning and Education brings a unique, cohort-based, part-time program with a flexible curriculum to the table. Through it, students can personalize their degree to meet their particular objectives.

Nicole West, Program Director and Associate Professor, revealed that the new Doctor of Education (EdD) program would indeed prepare professionals for leadership roles in K-12 schools, universities, and education-related nonprofits. The program aims to cultivate a conducive environment for future leaders to gain valuable experiences and connections. Moreover, the students will receive individualized guidance from expert faculty and enjoy small class sizes to ensure personalized academic and professional support.

The application process comprises two stages, with the first phase involving a thorough selection process, and the subsequent phase entailing the completion of video prompts and essay responses. The program hopes to admit 15 students during each academic cycle. Specialized areas of interest include educational leadership, higher education administration, curriculum development, policy analysis, and community engagement in education. The culmination of this program will have graduates leaving not merely with their doctorate’s degree but with the tools needed to initiate innovation in any sector of education.

Student Aaron Catron affirms the value of such a course, stating the possibility of becoming a principal in the future. The hope is that such an initiative will over time elevate the influence and recognition of the MSU doctorate program. Preparing individuals to effect transformative changes in the quality of education is the ultimate goal of the EdD program. The expectation is that the program will come to be recognized as one of the premier producers of educational leaders in the state.