Transform Education with SNU’s Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership (Ed.D)
Advance your impact with a flexible, purpose-driven Ed.D degree designed for working professionals. At Southern Nazarene University, we offer a distinctive path to a doctorate degree without a dissertation—ideal for those seeking to lead and innovate in educational settings.
What Makes SNU’s Doctor of Education (Ed.D) in Administration and Leadership Unique?
We cater to people with big ideas, big dreams, and a practical outlook. Our built-for-success program challenges you from day one while supporting you to achieve your dreams.
No Dissertation
Unlike many programs that require a dissertation, SNU’s Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership (DEAL) program replaces the conventional dissertation with two capstone projects. These projects involve conducting original research culminating in publishable articles, providing practical and accessible contributions to your professional field.
Personalized Support from Day One
Each student is paired with a dedicated research professor who offers guidance throughout the research and writing process. This mentorship ensures you develop the skills necessary to become an effective educational researcher and world changer, capable of addressing real-world challenges in educational leadership and administration.
Career Advancement
Graduates of SNU’s Ed.D program are equipped to step into influential leadership roles across a wide range of sectors. Whether serving as deans, department chairs, or higher education administrators in colleges and universities, leading as school principals or district superintendents in K–12 education, or guiding strategy as educational consultants or policy advisors in nonprofit and government settings—our alumni make a real impact. They don’t just advance their careers; they shape education, transform futures, and become world changers in their communities and beyond.
Designed for Working Professionals
SNU’s Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership (Ed.D) is designed with working professionals in mind. The program offers flexible learning options—students can attend classes fully online or one evening per week, making it easier to balance academic, professional, and personal responsibilities. The focused structure allows students to engage in one course at a time, fostering deep understanding and mastery of each subject. The 57-credit-hour program can be completed in as few as 32 months, helping students reach their career goals faster. Best of all, SNU is committed to transparent pricing—there are no hidden fees, and the cost per credit hour reflects the full cost of the program.
How SNU Helps Students
The doctoral program is built on a philosophy of relationship building and leadership. You’ll not only master these principles; you’ll experience them!
Disability Services
A disability doesn't have to be a barrier to higher achievement, nor to giving back to the world. Our Disability Services Office works with you to determine which accommodations might help you succeed. We advocate for students with disabilities because we recognize their unique worldview is indispensable to our school.
Financial Aid
Financing your terminal degree is a simple process at SNU. The majority of SNU students are eligible for financial aid. Many receive enough assistance to cover all costs of school, including books, housing, and other secondary expenses. We are happy to help you identify and address your financial needs.
Veteran Services
Veterans have sacrificed much to serve our nation. We believe it is our duty and honor to serve them. Our VETS Center caters to the specific needs of former soldiers, and we are one of just 13 schools designated as Centers of Excellence for Veteran Student Success.
About SNU and About their Accreditations
At SNU, we have the highest academic standards. We are regionally accredited, which means we submit to third party reviews and apply rigorous standards to our programs.
Helpful Resources
What to Expect from an Online Degree Program
If you’ve never taken a college program online, you might not know what’s in store for you. Use this guide to help you prepare.
The Complete Guide to Financial Aid
Doctoral students have enough to worry about without the additional stress of how to pay for school. This guide will help you navigate the financial aid process.
Online vs. On-Campus Education
Trying to decide if you should pursue your doctoral degree online or in person? This infographic can help you decide which path is right for you.
