Admission Requirements

• Master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum 3.25 GPA in graduate coursework
• Three (3) years of professional work experience (preferred in education/higher education or related field)
• Resume, personal statement, two recommendations

Career Outlook

Graduates of Saint Leo University’s EdD in School and Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Higher Education are prepared to assume impactful leadership roles across colleges, universities, and student-focused organizations. With a curriculum rooted in data-driven decision-making, strategic planning, and inclusive leadership, the program supports advancement in a growing and dynamic field.

Potential career paths include:

• Dean or Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
• Vice President for Student Affairs or Enrollment Management
• Director of Institutional Research or Accreditation
• Executive Director of Student Services or Advising
• Higher Education Policy Analyst
• Community College Administrator
• Academic Program Director or Chair

Industry insights:

• Median annual salary: $99,940 (Postsecondary Education Administrators)
• Projected job growth: 4–7% through 2028
  (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Whether you are looking to move into executive leadership, improve student outcomes, or shape institutional policy, this program gives you the tools to lead with confidence and purpose in today’s higher education landscape.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate the ability to conduct applied research that improves student outcomes.
• Lead institutions of higher education (IHE) and manage change through data-informed decision-making.
• Facilitate effective, collaborative teams that promote organizational and student success.
• Cultivate research-based institutional cultures that support learning and equity.
• Identify organizational needs, design targeted interventions, and sustain positive change through data analysis and evidence-based strategies.
• Navigate key areas of higher education leadership, including student affairs, finance and budgeting, policy and governance, retention, and sustainable program development.