Clark University

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework in leadership theory, organisational behaviour and supervision with intensive training in research methods and a sustained, original dissertation. Core topics typically include educational leadership and ethics, school and district administration, curriculum and instruction supervision, policy analysis, organisational change, and equity and social justice in education. Students receive substantial methodological preparation in both quantitative and qualitative approaches — including statistics, program evaluation, mixed methods, and design-based implementation research — and take seminars in specialized areas such as special education leadership, community engagement, finance and resource allocation, and data-driven decision making.

Learning is integrative and applied: alongside seminars and methods courses, doctoral candidates engage in practicum experiences, leadership internships or partnered research with local schools and districts to apply supervision and administration concepts in real settings. The programme culminates in a dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field of educational administration and supervision.

Entry requirements

• Master’s degree in education, educational leadership, public administration, or a closely related field from an accredited institution (or equivalent professional experience and preparation).
• Evidence of academic preparation for doctoral study, typically shown through transcripts and prior coursework in education or a related discipline.
• Professional experience in educational settings is expected; many admitted applicants have experience as teachers, school leaders, central office administrators or education policymakers.
• Statement of purpose outlining scholarly interests, leadership goals and proposed research directions.
• Academic CV or résumé documenting professional responsibilities, leadership roles and research or publications if applicable.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two to three) from academic and/or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s potential for doctoral study.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent credential, unless otherwise exempted.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue leadership careers across K–12 and higher education sectors, as well as in research, policy and consultancy roles. Common career paths include school district superintendent or central office administrator, school principal or assistant superintendent, director of curriculum and instruction, special education administrator, and leadership positions in charter school networks. Many PhD graduates move into higher education as faculty members or researchers, taking roles in teacher preparation, educational leadership programmes and university-based research centres. Other opportunities exist in education policy organisations, non-profit leadership, evaluation offices and private consulting, where advanced expertise in supervision, assessment and organisational change is valued.

Why study at Clark University

• Research-oriented environment with a focus on social justice and equity in education, linking theoretical scholarship to practical change in schools and communities.
• Small cohorts and faculty mentorship provide individualized advising for coursework, practicum placements and dissertation development.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities across the university, allowing students to draw on expertise in areas such as psychology, public policy and data science.
• Strong partnerships with local schools and districts enable applied research, internships and leadership practicum experiences in real-world settings.
• Access to research centres, methodological training and professional development that prepare graduates for both scholarly and leadership careers in education.