Curriculum Description

During the first year at The Center for Higher Education and Organizational Change, students complete foundational courses providing a strong knowledge base in the principles and practices of doctoral study, higher education and organizational change. In the second year, study advances to current issues in student services, curriculum, teaching, learning and resource management. The major theme is leading organizations through constructive change. Students receive guidance and University support throughout the program.

Dissertation preparation and research extend through the program. By the third year, students are actively engaged in completing a dissertation. Related to the student’s specialized interests, the study is expected to constitute a significant contribution to knowledge in the field of post-secondary education. Candidates are expected to relate this knowledge to the theories, concepts and methodologies of their study in organizational development, and include implications for further research and theory development. The dissertation is presented and defended at the final oral defense.

Curriculum/Content

• Target: 20-25 hours per week workload.
• Curriculum is planned to include virtual learning and interaction opportunities.
• Total of 60 credits required.
• Internship required (competency based; can be completed anytime after the first eight courses; can serve as a site for a  dissertation study).
• Dissertation required (Upon completion of  coursework, students will submit a dissertation proposal for review by the Dissertation Committee. Approval results in advancement to Ed.D. degree candidacy).

Academic Policies

• All courses must be completed with a B (3.0 on a  4.0 scale) or higher in order to complete the program. This applies to each  course, not to the aggregate GPA.
•  If a grade lower than a B is earned, a student will: be placed on probation; be required to repeat the course, and earn a B or higher in each of the subsequent courses, or face dismissal.
• An Incomplete Grade is issued to students who  cannot finish a course within an academic year due to extenuating circumstances. The coursework must be satisfied within 180 days.
• No transfer or life experience credit given. Relevant doctoral work may be considered under petition to program director.
• All requirements must be completed within 6 consecutive years of initial enrollment.