Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership for Educational Equity

Are you a leader in a school, a district, a nonprofit, or a community organization? This concentration prepares those interested in innovation to develop the fundamental skills to inspire and lead. You will:  

1. Learn to lead personnel in strategic planning and budgeting processes 

2. Understand evaluation and accountability systems and oversee professional development

3. Become data savvy for strategic planning and decision-making, and more

Enables and supports current leaders in higher education to continue their work while completing their doctoral degrees. Students in this concentration have a strong passion for educational access, equity, and social justice in higher education, and want to be empowered with tools for positive change to impact student success. Our graduates become effective leaders who are passionate about educational access, equity, and social justice in diverse settings in colleges and universities worldwide.

Focus on education for justice, equity, and diverse identities (e.g., Latiné, Black, AANAPI, LGBTQIA+, and dis/ability) while pursuing research of interest that is adjacent to or within one of these areas. Students delve into the idea of educators as intellectual activists facilitating liberation and are equipped with a critical lens to problematize systemic issues. The program prepares educational leaders who:  

1. Value educational excellence and social justice

2. Seek to lead change against educational inequities in underserved schools and communities

3. Value complexities and unique opportunities of diverse communities

Note: The application for this concentration requires an interview and two writing samples.  

Apply by December 16. The program has the following application requirements: $50 application fee for domestic applicants; $75 fee for international applicants. 

• Master's degree from a regionally accredited institution. 
• Written Statement of Purpose

Instructions vary by concentration area, including the following:

• A brief summary of your educational and/or leadership experiences, including your values related to leadership and equity, and experience working with diverse communities.
• A summary of your current professional role and responsibilities and how you use research and evidence to inform planning and decision making.
• Your purpose in pursuing the EdD, intentions for applying the skills and knowledge gained from the EdD degree, and your future career goals.
• Resume/CV
• Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can best speak to your leadership, professional accomplishments, academic skills, and career goals (two professional and one community-based, if possible).
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• After the initial review of application materials, faculty will contact eligible applicants to schedule individual interviews.

When you’re ready to apply to the Doctor of Education program, our CU Denver Enrollment Team will help walk you through the entire process, from gathering required materials and submitting your application to checking your admission status and enrolling in CU Denver. After you submit your completed application and required materials, you will be able to check your admission status online. You’ll receive a final admission decision by email within two to three weeks of completing your application.