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The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) is a school-based degree awarded to individuals who successfully complete one of the department-based doctoral concentrations. All Ed.D. students develop expertise in human development, social justice issues and education, pedagogy, philosophy of education, and educational research. In addition, students develop expertise in a specific educational discipline.

The primary purpose of Ed.D. programs is to prepare educational leaders who will advance educational theory, practice, and policy through scholarship and disciplined inquiry. Graduates assume leadership roles in university, educational agency, and P-12 settings.

All Ed.D. students complete a program of study consisting of at least 36 credit hours beyond the Master’s degree and 18 dissertation credits. Students work closely with their adviser and committee to select appropriate courses, prepare for the comprehensive examination, and design and conduct the independent research program which forms the basis of their doctoral dissertation. A detailed explanation of requirements and procedures can be found by clicking on Doctoral under Academics on the School of Education’s website, www.umass.edu/education/.