Are you an educator wondering if an online doctoral program in education can help you become a principal, assistant principal, or superintendent? Rowan University says yes.
Our fully online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership: P-12 program is designed for busy professionals who are ready to lead meaningful change in schools and districts. Whether you’re working full-time, managing a classroom, or balancing family life, Rowan’s flexible Ed.D programs empower you to grow—on your terms.
Why Earn an Ed.D in Educational Leadership: P–12?
If you’ve been researching how to become a principal, assistant principal, or superintendent, a doctorate is a powerful next move. Rowan’s P-12 specialization prepares educators to step into advanced leadership roles across preschool through high school levels.
This program is ideal for professionals who want to:
- Become an assistant principal, school principal, or superintendent
- Lead curriculum development and instructional improvement
- Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in education
- Build trust with school boards, families, and communities
- Implement district-wide reform that drives lasting impact
Whether your passion is guiding teachers, improving policy, or supporting student achievement at scale, this online Ed.D helps you turn your goals into leadership that matters.
Why Choose Rowan’s Online Ed.D in Educational Leadership?
Rowan’s online doctoral programs in educational leadership offer more than flexibility—they’re built for real-world impact. You’ll gain the advanced knowledge and leadership skills needed to solve the challenges facing schools today, all while continuing to work full-time.
Here’s what makes our P-12 program stand out:
- 100% online with no required campus visits
- Asynchronous coursework so you can learn on your own schedule
- Optional live virtual sessions for real-time connection
- Faculty with firsthand P-12 leadership experience
- A curriculum grounded in both theory and immediate application
- Personalized support from faculty and advisors throughout your journey
It’s an education designed to fit your life—without compromising on quality or connection.
Inside the Online Learning Experience at Rowan
At Rowan, online students experience the same academic excellence and community support as those on campus. We know that working educators need flexibility, structure, and real support to thrive—and we deliver exactly that.
Program Format and Structure
- Most courses are offered asynchronously, allowing you to complete work when it’s convenient for you
- Some courses include optional synchronous elements, such as virtual office hours or review sessions
- Course design is clear, consistent, and paced to help you stay organized and motivated
This structure is ideal for educators who need a degree that adapts to their busy schedules—not the other way around.
Online Student Support That Goes the Extra Mile
Rowan is committed to helping online students succeed from day one. Whether you need academic guidance, tutoring, or a boost of motivation, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s what’s available:
- Tutoring Support
- Access peer-to-peer tutoring, either online or in person
- Use Brainfuse, Rowan’s 24/7 professional tutoring platform, for help with research, writing, or time management
- Virtual Workshop Series
- Attend online workshops focused on topics like time management, study strategies, and academic wellness
- Academic and Career Advising
- Receive individualized support that aligns your coursework with your career goals
At Rowan, you’re never just a number—you’re a future leader, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
What You’ll Learn: P–12 Curriculum Overview
Rowan’s online Ed.D in Educational Leadership: P–12 combines academic rigor with practical relevance. Every course is designed to help you immediately apply what you’re learning in your school, district, or organization.
Core Courses Include:
- Leadership for Social Justice
- Reforming Organizations
- Public Policy, Ethics, and Contemporary Issues
- Program Evaluation and Institutional Research
- Writing a Research Literature Review
P–12 Specialization Courses:
- Instructional Leadership
- Educational Leadership for Equity and Diversity
- Equitable Finance and Budgeting
- Building Board and Community Relationships
You’ll also complete a dissertation-in-practice, where you’ll explore a real challenge in your own professional setting and develop actionable solutions with real impact.
To view the full course list and official program requirements, visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
Program Snapshot
- Degree: Ed.D in Educational Leadership: P–12
- Delivery Format: 100% Online
- Credit Hours: 60 total (48 coursework + 12 dissertation)
- Program Length: ~48 months (with flexible pacing)
- Start Terms: Summer and Fall
Application Deadlines:
- Early Decision – February 15
- Summer Entry – June 1
- Fall Entry – July 1
For the most up-to-date tuition and cost per credit, please visit the program page.
Career Outcomes: Where Can a P–12 Ed.D Take You?
Rowan’s Ed.D in P–12 Leadership prepares you for meaningful careers in education, including:
- Assistant Principal
- School Principal
- District Superintendent
- Instructional Coordinator or Curriculum Director
- Director of Student Services or Equity Initiatives
Whether you’re driven to improve student achievement, support educators, or shape policy at the district level, this degree gives you the foundation and credentials to lead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I earn an Ed.D in P–12 Leadership online?
Yes. Rowan University offers a fully online Ed.D in Educational Leadership with a P–12 specialization that’s designed for working educators and aspiring school or district leaders.
How do I become an assistant principal or school superintendent?
While state requirements may vary, most leadership positions in K–12 education require advanced credentials. Rowan’s Ed.D helps you meet or exceed those requirements and prepares you for real-world leadership.
What’s the difference between an Ed.D and a Ph.D in education?
An Ed.D is a practice-focused doctorate designed for professionals solving real challenges in education settings. A Ph.D is typically more research-oriented and designed for those pursuing academic or theoretical careers.
Is Rowan’s program flexible enough for teachers and administrators?
Absolutely. The coursework is asynchronous and 100% online. Most students complete the program in about four years while working full-time.
Does Rowan Offer Other Online Ed.D Tracks?
Yes! If the P–12 track isn’t the perfect fit for your goals, Rowan offers three other fully online Ed.D specializations:
Ed.D in Educational Leadership: Higher Education
For leaders in four-year colleges and universities seeking roles in administration, governance, or student affairs.
Ed.D in Educational Leadership: Community College
Designed for professionals in two-year institutions who want to lead programs, support workforce development, and advocate for student success.
Ed.D in Educational Leadership: Nurse Educator
Built for nurses and healthcare professionals who want to lead nursing education and train the next generation of healthcare providers.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re passionate about leading schools, shaping policy, or driving district-wide change—and you’re searching for an online doctoral program in education that meets you where you are—Rowan University is here to help.
Whether your goal is to become an assistant principal, principal, or school superintendent, our online Ed.D in Educational Leadership: P–12 program will prepare you to lead with confidence and purpose.
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Your next chapter as a school leader starts now. Let’s make it happen—together!