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Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership for Educational Equity

Prepares educational leaders for top roles in school systems, universities, and other complex organizations by connecting them with the theory, operational expertise, and professional networks needed to lead and sustain meaningful change.

Program at a Glance

CU Denver’s EdD program develops experienced organizational leaders who are ready to drive systemic change and advance inclusive excellence. Designed for working professionals, this practice-based doctorate blends academic rigor with real-world application, preparing graduates to lead with vision, strategy, and impact. 

Program highlights: Applied research and leadership development grounded in equity-centered practice 

Key Topics of Study

  • Leadership and governance
  • Power, privilege, and social equity
  • Strategic enrollment management
  • Finance and resource allocation
  • Data informed decision making

Graduates of the program are prepared to lead institutional change, with a focus on fostering inclusive excellence. 

  • Degree Level
    Doctoral
  • School & College
    School of Education & Human Development
  • Application Deadline(s)
    December 16, 2025
  • Total Credit Hours
    54
  • Class Type
    Online with limited on-campus intensives
  • Time Commitment
    3 years (cohort-based)
  • Start Term(s)
    Summer
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Program Overview

This doctoral program provides relevant opportunities for working professionals to engage in research projects with education and community organizations that broaden their career horizons.

Most EdD students work full-time. New EdD cohorts start each summer. Students complete coursework in two or four years followed by the time required to complete the Doctoral Research Project. During the Doctoral Research Project, you will engage with faculty and district, organization, and community partners on identified problems of practice and policy. 

CU Denver doctoral students meeting in the downtown campus

Students select a concentration area based on their interests and aspirations.

Tuition Breakdown

Credit Cost for Residents and Non-Residents
ResidentNon-Resident
$480* per credit$576* per credit

*See Graduate Student Tuition and Fees page for graduate tuition disclaimer.

Example Courses

The EdD program requires 54 credit hours, covering key topics in higher education leadership.

Prereq: admission to the doctoral program. 

Six Concentrations

Want to learn more about Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership for Educational Equity? Join us for an information session to where you'll gain an overview of the EdD program and its mission.

    Equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to shape policy, improve practice, and drive innovation in early childhood and early childhood special education. Note: Applicants to this concentration must submit one writing sample.

    Gain the knowledge and skills you need to address complex challenges in education—advancing access, social justice, and student success across diverse learning environments.

    Designed for current and aspiring leaders in colleges and universities, this concentration supports professionals in advancing their careers while completing their doctoral degrees. Students are driven by a deep commitment to educational access, equity, and social justice—and gain the tools to lead transformative change in diverse higher education settings. This concentration offers low-cost executive coaching for our graduates.

    This concentration centers on education for justice, equity, and diverse identities—including Latiné, Black, AANHPI, LGBTQIA+, and disabled communities. Students explore the role of educators as intellectual activists and develop a critical lens to challenge systemic inequities and facilitate liberation through education. Note: Applicants to this concentration must complete an interview and submit two writing samples.  

    Prepares leaders to design, implement, and study equitable learning experiences across academic, corporate, and community settings. Grounded in design justice and learner-centered approaches, the coursework explores how learning design shapes individual and collective outcomes. Coursework is practice-based and directly addresses real-world challenges in learning environments.

    Prepares educators and leaders to advance equity, innovation, and excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Students critically examine STEM education through the lenses of research, pedagogy, and leadership—ensuring that learners from all backgrounds have access to high-quality, inclusive STEM experiences.

Career Outlook

What is the projected salary of an individual working in leadership for educational equity?

As of 2023, alumni of CU Denver’s education doctoral programs earned a median annual salary of $102,610.

What can I do with a Doctor of Education in leadership for educational equity?

Graduates are prepared for impactful roles such as postsecondary education administrators, instructional coordinator, K-12 administrator, college professor, and more.

Admissions Requirements

  • 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 where the 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 to pursue 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.
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • After the initial review of application materials, faculty will contact eligible applicants to schedule individual interviews.
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Guidance Every Step of the Way

Get Personalized Support for Your Application

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 in March.

Testimonial

  • I love how this program is rooted in becoming a scholar-practitioner. Through coursework and engagement with my cohort, I connect my work in higher education within the larger context while also gaining practical skills I can use to make a difference at my institution now.

    Molly M.
    EdD, Higher Education ‘25
Molly M.

Top-Ranked School

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One of our signature strengths is a focus on preparing educational leaders to support equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts.

The School of Education & Human Development is consistently ranked as one of the top schools of education in the country. Our EdD program is nationally known for its rigor and influence. We provide individual supervision and mentorship that prepares you to be research savvy, problem-solve, innovate, and make important contributions in your field of study.

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Take The Next Step

Ready to lead in higher education? Take the first step toward earning your online degree by filling out the form above for more information or calling us at 303-860-5604.