Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis: K-12 Leadership, PhD

This is a named option in the Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis PhD that emphasizes the effective administration of primary and secondary institutions.

This in-person program provides students with a comprehensive knowledge base in educational leadership, organizational theory, planning and evaluation, and learning and diversity, supported by rigorous training in qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methodologies. Courses bridge research, practice, and policy to cultivate the capacity for evidence-based and equity-driven improvement in public education. Graduates of the program pursue careers as faculty members, district leaders, school administrators, or researchers in think tanks and/or policy organizations.

Participants in the K-12 Leadership PhD program can complete the requirements for Wisconsin’s Director of Instruction, Director of Special Education and Pupil Services, and/or Superintendent licenses as part of the program. For questions about obtaining these district-level K-12 licenses with ELPA, please visit our K-12 Administrator Certification webpage or contact Dr. Barb Sramek.

---

To inquire about admission, please contact Shari Smith, Graduate Program Manager and Academic Advisor, at ssmith@education.wisc.edu