The EdD in Educational Leadership requires completion of 60 credit hours and offers two program pathways: a School, Community & Higher Education Leadership – Non-Licensure Track and an ISBE Principal Endorsement (PK–22) Licensure Track requiring 72 credit hours.

School, Community & Higher Education Leadership – Non-Licensure Track

Students complete:

  • Five core leadership courses (15 credits) 
  • Four research courses (12 credits) 
  • Four specialization electives (12 credits) 
  • Five elective courses (15 credits) 
  • Two dissertation or capstone courses (6 credits) 

Total Credits: 60

Up to 24 graduate transfer credits may be accepted from a previously completed master’s degree. A minimum of 36 credit hours must be completed at Dominican University.

Candidates complete a dissertation or capstone participatory action research project focused on a significant educational problem of practice. The project synthesizes leadership theory, equity-centered practice, organizational improvement, and applied research to produce actionable recommendations that support educational transformation and student success.

ISBE Principal Endorsement (PK–22) Licensure Track

Students pursuing the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Principal Endorsement (PK–22) complete:

  • Five core leadership courses (15 credits) 
  • Nine principal licensure courses (27 credits) 
  • Four research courses (12 credits) 
  • Two Internship Seminar/Capstone courses (6 credits) 
  • Additional required electives and leadership experiences (12 credits) 

Total Credits: 72

Up to 24 graduate transfer credits may be accepted from a previously completed master’s degree. A minimum of 48 credit hours must be completed at Dominican University.

Candidates complete a two-semester administrative internship and seminar sequence that supports ongoing leadership development, portfolio artifact collection, and completion of the capstone action research project. Candidates must also pass the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) Principal examination and complete all ISBE portfolio and assessment requirements.