The Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education at Boston College is a program designed to develop agile leaders equipped for change in a fast-paced world. Using innovative curriculum, the program emphasizes global perspectives, socially just leadership, data-informed strategies, and iterative design thinking, all with a focus on reimagining the future of higher education.

The program is structured to enable students to continue working full-time while pursuing their studies, with opportunities for in-person interaction during weeklong summer residencies held in Boston and Santiago. The program encourages expansion of strategic skills to enact change in participants’ respective institutions, supported by data-drive insights and equity-minded leadership approaches.

Throughout the program, students are involved in a diverse academic community with varied professional backgrounds. They also gain exposure to international perspectives and practices from leaders in higher education. A cohort of students is admitted to the program annually, with each batch having a maximum of 15 students.

During the 3-year part-time program, students are educated through an executive-style approach, involving case studies and research-based discussions focused on addressing complex issues facing higher education in the US and globally.

The program is structured handhold students through various stages of developing a research study, analyzing data, reporting results, and making decisions. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address issues like discrimination based on gender, race, disability, and the understanding of the legal and policy framework affecting higher education institutions.

Completing the program involves the creation of an Executive Doctoral Dossier, a project-based portfolio displaying the student’s ability to address complex issues through their comprehension of law, policy, leadership, and mission-driven strategies.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree and at least seven years of professional experience in higher education or an area related to higher education. The application process requires the submission of all educational qualifications, work history, relevant licenses, and responses to a few specific questions, by means of a non-refundable application fee. Recommendation letters, writing samples, and transcripts are also relevant for the application. There is no requirement for GRE scores. For international students, there might be additional requirements.