How to Apply: EdD in Educational Leadership

EdD in Educational Leadership: School, Community & Higher Education Leadership – Non-Licensure Track

This pathway is designed for professionals working in school, community, and higher education leadership roles. A Professional Educator License (PEL) is not required for admission to this track. 

Candidates must meet all the following foundational requirements: 

  • Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Master's degree (MAEd, MEd, MAT, or related field)
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 (undergraduate and graduate coursework)
  • Graduate course in Statistics (3.0 minimum)
  • Graduate course in Curriculum and Instruction (3.0 minimum)
  • At least two years of full-time P–12 or educational leadership experience (or four years part-time experience)
  • Statement of Purpose, resume, writing sample, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation
  • PEL not required


EdD in Educational Leadership with ISBE General Administrator (K-12) Principal Endorsement

This pathway leads to the Illinois State Board of Education Principal Endorsement. The following foundational requirements must be met: 

  • Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
  • Currently serving in a P–12 educational setting
  • Minimum of two years of full-time experience (or four years part-time experience)
  • Master's degree (MAEd, MEd, MAT, or equivalent)
  • Graduate coursework in Statistics (3.0 minimum)
  • Graduate coursework in Curriculum and Instruction (3.0 minimum)
  • Meets all ISBE Principal Endorsement requirements

The Principal Endorsement will not be issued to out-of-state students or international students who do not hold an IL PEL and/or meet all ISBE requirements for endorsement.


Admission Application Checklist

  • Completed application form
  • Statement of Purpose, around 500 words. Dominican University’s School of Education prepares educational leaders who embody the core values of Scholarship, Leadership, and Service and are committed to ethical, inclusive, and equity-centered leadership. You will be asked to answer questions in your essay on your experiences, values, and motivations for pursuing graduate study in Educational Leadership. 
  • Resume
  • Scholarly writing sample. A published article, a paper written for a class, a thesis, a grant proposal, a book chapter, or other written document that shows the applicant’s ability to succeed at EdD-level. Applicant must be the sole author of the writing sample.
  • Official transcripts from all degrees awarded. 
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation from professors or employers. Letters will be submitted online by recommenders.


Application Priority Deadline

Applications are accepted year-round and will be reviewed by the EdD Advisory Committee on a rolling basis. 

  • Start Term: Fall 2027: Priority deadline: June 15


International Students

International students requiring an I-20 or DS 2019 may not apply, since this program is offered primarily online with required in-person components.

To find out more, please contact the Office of Graduate Admission.