The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership (K–12 Leadership) prepares experienced educators to lead school districts, apply research to real-world challenges, and support strong outcomes for students as they pursue superintendent licensure. The program develops senior-level leaders who can navigate complex educational systems and drive improvement across K–12 settings.
The program’s part-time structure is designed for working professionals — experienced educators, central‑office leaders, and aspiring superintendents — who want to strengthen their leadership practice while continuing to serve in their current roles.
An Ed.D. is a practice-focused degree designed for experienced professionals who want to apply research to solve real‑world challenges in educational settings. A Ph.D. in Education is a research-focused degree designed for students who want to generate new knowledge and pursue careers in academia, research, or policy.
The part-time K–12 Leadership program is delivered through in-person evening classes, typically held one night per week.
The K–12 Leadership concentration is a part-time doctoral program that can be completed by working professionals.
Most students complete the 54‑credit program in about three years, taking two courses per semester.
Yes. The program is intended for experienced educators who are already serving in school or district leadership roles or preparing to move into them.
Yes. Students complete a yearlong, part‑time internship guided by accomplished educational leaders. This experience allows students to apply theory to practice as they work toward developing a dissertation in practice.
Yes. The program leads to North Carolina Superintendent Licensure through the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. To be eligible for this license, candidates must hold an active North Carolina Principal License at the time they complete the program and apply for licensure.
The K-12 Leadership program prepares graduates for North Carolina Superintendent Licensure through the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Licensure requirements vary by state, so students planning to work outside North Carolina should review their state’s guidelines for reciprocity.
Yes. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in education or a related field from an accredited institution.
GRE scores are optional for applicants to the K-12 Leadership program. If submitted, scores must be valid within the last five years.
Applications for the K-12 Leadership program are typically due in early spring for fall admission. Students are encouraged to apply early. Prospective students should review the “How to Apply” page for current deadlines and application cycles.
Applicants submit an online application that includes transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a résumé/CV, and other required materials. Interviews with program faculty after initial application review are required. The School of Education provides step‑by‑step guidance on the “How to Apply” page.
Yes. International applicants are welcome. Students should review UNC Graduate School requirements for English proficiency, transcript evaluation, and visa documentation.
Many students receive funding packages in exchange for working as a Research Assistant on a professor’s funded research grant. Some students receive funding packages in exchange for serving as a Teaching Assistant each semester.
In addition, The Graduate School offers a small number of competitive awards that require nomination by the program. To ensure programs have adequate time to review applicants for these opportunities, all application materials — including required uploads and test scores — must be submitted in full by the deadline.
For questions about admissions, program requirements, or advising, contact the Office of Student Affairs at education_studentaffairs@unc.edu or attend an upcoming virtual information session.