Doctorate of Education

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At a Glance

3-Year

Program

Online

Credit Hours

Next Start Date: January 12, 2026

Doctorate of Education Paths

Carson-Newman University’s Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) programs are designed for educators and leaders who aspire to make a transformative impact within their institutions and communities. These fully online programs offer flexible, rigorous, and values-driven pathways to leadership across K-12 and higher education settings. Rooted in ethical, social, and spiritual principles, each Ed.D. focus equips professionals with advanced knowledge, research skills, and practical experience to lead with integrity and vision. Whether your goal is to shape policy in higher education, innovate curriculum and instruction, or lead school systems as an administrator, Carson-Newman’s Ed.D. programs provide the tools and mentorship to help you thrive.

Higher Education Administration

The Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration at Carson-Newman University is designed for educators seeking leadership roles within colleges and universities. This fully online program emphasizes organizational theory, assessment and accreditation, finance, policy, and law, equipping students with the tools to lead high-performance institutions. Students engage in research-based coursework and begin their dissertation steps early in the program, working closely with faculty mentors. The program culminates in a dissertation defense and prepares graduates for higher education leadership roles such as academic dean, provost, or college president. Unlike other Ed.D. tracks, this concentration does not offer an embedded Ed.S. option.

Curriculum & Instruction Leadership

The Curriculum & Instruction Leadership concentration is ideal for educators focused on instructional excellence and curriculum innovation. This track emphasizes ethical, social, and spiritual leadership principles while preparing students to lead professional learning communities and drive systemic improvement. Coursework includes instructional strategies, diversity and exceptionality, and evaluation for continuous improvement. Students complete a mentored residency and professional portfolio and may opt to earn an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in route to the doctorate. The program is fully online and structured to accommodate full-time educators.

Administrative Leadership

The Administrative Leadership concentration prepares educators for advanced roles in school administration. It includes coursework in legal and ethical issues, school management, financial planning, and leadership theory. Candidates complete a mentored residency, internship, and professional portfolio. Those seeking licensure in Tennessee may pursue the Beginning Administrative License (ILL-B) by completing practicum hours under an approved mentor and passing the Praxis Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA). Like the Curriculum & Instruction track, this program offers an optional Ed.S. credential and is delivered fully online for working professionals.

What You'll Gain from the Ed.D. Program

Specialized Leadership Tracks
Choose a focus area that aligns with your goals—either Administrative Leadership or Curriculum and Instruction Leadership—to deepen your impact in your current role.

Capstone Research with Purpose
Design and develop a research proposal and dissertation under the guidance of the Graduate Committee and Institutional Review Board, ensuring your work is both rigorous and relevant.

Transformational Skill Development
Apply advanced theory and research in real-world educational settings while building the leadership skills needed to drive meaningful, research-based change.

Career Outlook

205,700

Jobs in U.S.
(2023)

$94,000

Median Pay
(2023)

13%

Estimated Job Growth
(2023-33)

*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Carson-Newman University cannot guarantee employment. Salary data represents averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.

Why Carson-Newman?

Learn on Your Schedule.

At Carson-Newman, we support you through programs that help you balance your life, family, and faith while you learn. With online and hybrid options, you can pursue your education on your terms.

Become Career Ready.

You don’t have to pause your current life to advance your education or career. With us, you benefit from immersive, experiential learning and meaningful connections with students and faculty who share your determination and values.

Make Your Education Affordable.

We work with students with all types of financial needs to make their education affordable. Our financial aid counselors are here to help you understand your options, so you can focus on reaching your potential.

Reach Your Full Potential.

Your education can be the connection to your next chapter through internships, research opportunities, and spiritual mentorships. We offer a wide variety of student services throughout your education that can prepare you for what’s next.

Higher Education for a Higher Calling

Carson-Newman’s mission as Christian educators is to help students reach their full potential as educated citizens and worldwide servant-leaders.

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