Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Completion
3 Years
Credits
45
Degree Type
Doctorate (Ed.D.)
Delivery
Online
Cost Per Credit
$825*
*2025-2026 academic year
Ready to lead with greater purpose? The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership is designed to help experienced educators, ministry leaders, and business leaders step confidently into high-impact roles—equipped with the knowledge, character, and biblical ethic to lead well.
This program blends theological reflection with leadership theory and focused research skills, preparing you to influence educational systems, ministries, and nonprofit organizations from a Christ-centered perspective. You’ll deepen your understanding of organizational development, strengthen your administrative and strategic skills, and become a catalyst for transformation in your community and beyond.
Whether you serve in a school, university, church, or nonprofit, the Ed.D. empowers you to lead with excellence and make a difference in the world for Jesus Christ.
Featured Courses
Examine key philosophical questions in education through the lens of a Christian worldview, with emphasis on enhancing your critical thinking skills on issues in higher education and nonprofit leadership.
Explore biblical, classical, and contemporary approaches to ethics in leadership. You’ll examine real-world case studies, reflect on your own values, and develop a personal philosophy of ethical leadership that aligns your beliefs with your actions. You’ll also design practical, ethically grounded responses to common challenges in organizations.
Build your research skills in biblical and theological studies and discipleship practice. You’ll connect these insights to your own social science research interests, preparing you for thoughtful, integrative work in your dissertation.
Explore what it means to teach in a way that reflects Christ as a practitioner of formation, a model of Christian values, an integrator of faith and learning, and a thoughtful designer of learning environments. You’ll also examine how to teach Christianly in your own setting—whether that’s P–12 education, higher education, or a non-educational context.
For a complete list of courses in this program, view the program overview.
For official course descriptions, refer to the academic catalog.
What to Expect
Online Format with On-Campus Residency
Designed for working professionals, this program is primarily online, allowing you to balance coursework with your career and personal commitments. You’ll complete a two-week on-campus residency during the summer after your second year, giving you the opportunity to engage face-to-face with faculty and peers.
Cohort Model
The Ed.D. program begins each fall and follows a cohort model, so you’ll walk through your academic journey alongside a consistent group of peers. This structure fosters meaningful connection, collaboration, and support. Through both synchronous and asynchronous online learning, you’ll build relationships with fellow students and faculty who challenge and encourage you.
Experienced Faculty Who Care
Corban’s faculty and adjunct instructors are experienced professionals and scholars actively engaged in the field of education. They bring current, real-world insight into the classroom—and they care deeply about your success. You’ll benefit from personalized support and consistent access to your professors through email, video conferencing, and one-on-one mentoring.
Biblical Integration
At Corban, your spiritual development is as important as your academic growth. Every course is grounded in a biblical worldview, encouraging you to reflect on your faith as you develop your leadership philosophy. You’ll be equipped to approach educational and organizational challenges with wisdom, integrity, and Christ-like character.
Program Takeaways
Strategic Leadership Skills
Grow your ability to assess organizational needs, diagnose problems, and implement solutions. Whether you lead in P–12 education, higher ed, ministry, or nonprofit work, you’ll gain practical tools to build and transform systems for lasting impact.
Expanded Opportunities
This terminal degree opens doors to new leadership roles, increased earning potential, and expanded influence. Whether you’re pursuing an administrator position, board leadership, or a voice in policy and practice, the Ed.D. prepares you to lead at the highest level.
Faith-Informed Leadership Perspective
Develop a Christ-centered approach to leadership grounded in biblical truth. Your leadership will be marked by integrity, compassion, and a clear sense of purpose in both educational and organizational contexts.
Advanced Research Proficiency
Strengthen your abilities as a scholar-practitioner. Gain the skills to conduct meaningful field-based research that addresses real-world challenges. You’ll be equipped to synthesize knowledge across educational and ministry disciplines, integrating social science and theology to guide effective decision-making.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Jen Kleiber
Chair, School of Education & Counseling | Associate Professor of Education
jkleiber@corban.edu(503) 375-7079