Gwynedd Mercy University 2025-2026 University Catalog 175
EDD IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP Program Name: EdD in Educational Leadership Degree Offered: Doctor of Education Program Accreditation: Gwynedd Mercy University is fully accredited at the national level by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education( MSCHE). The EdD program is recognized and approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Program Modality: Online with On-Ground Residencies
• First Doctoral Residency consists of an intensive weekend at the beginning of the program.
• Second Doctoral Residency consists of an intensive week during the summer following enrollment in the program.
• Third Doctoral Residency, typically one week in length, includes participation in an international educational conference.
Program Director: Raymond Bandlow
Description: The Doctorate in Educational Leadership( EdD) program is presented in an accelerated cohort model, delivered online with three residencies. It is built upon a foundation of coursework essential to leadership in any educational venue. This foundation is organized in nine courses, three credit hours each, for a total of twenty-seven( 27) credit hours. Students will also elect one of three( 3) areas of concentration, organized in five( 5) classes for a total of fifteen( 15) credit hours. All students will also enroll in four( 4) directed study dissertation advisement courses for a total of twelve credit hours. The course of study totals fifty-four credit hours. The three areas of concentration are as follows:
• Leadership in Pk – 12 School and School Districts
• Leadership in Higher Education
• Leadership in Special Education
The purpose of the program, which can be completed in less than three years, is to impart in students the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to fulfill leadership roles in U. S. and international schools, school districts, colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations that support education. This program develops the next generation of educational leadership.
Schools, higher education, and education-related organizations are challenged to address the needs of diverse learners and to raise the achievement bar for all students. More is expected of the next generation of educational leaders than ever before. Through a rigorous course of studies, an international perspective, field-based research, and an ethical foundation, graduates will be prepared to lead educational organizations and transform them to meet the needs of all learners in an increasingly global economy and diverse, global society.
Textbooks and Residency Costs Included: All required textbooks are provided to students at no additional cost. Most meals during the residencies are provided at no additional cost. For the First Doctoral Residency, transportation, and lodging( if needed) are at the expense of the student. For the Second Doctoral Residency, transportation is at the expense of the student, but lodging is provided at no additional cost. For the Third Doctoral Residency, transportation, lodging, conference fees, most meals, and related experiences are provided at no additional cost.
Preparation for Professional Licensure: The doctoral program in leadership with PK – 12 concentration