“Penn GSE gave me the analytical tools to understand the newest research on college access and help craft practical ways to recruit and support a wide range of students.”
Andrew Moe, Ed.D., GRD'18

Connect research theory to real-world practice in higher education.
Part-time program, world-class degree for leaders in higher education administration.
Aimed at preparing practitioner-scholars, the Ed.D. in Higher Education is designed for experienced professionals who wish to continue their careers as research-practitioners and institutional leaders. Individuals learn to use research to make a difference in the lives of students and institutions by focusing on pressing problems of practice.
December 1 Application Deadline
Fall Entry Term
Part-Time Enrollment Format
20 Courses
1-2 Average Courses per Semester
On Campus Modality
Students will gain a deeper understanding of how institutions of higher education operate while learning how to conduct rigorous academic research that they will be able to use as higher education leaders.
Students attain a broad comprehension of higher education through completion of core doctoral classes that are designed to facilitate their understanding of research and completion of a dissertation. In addition to these courses, doctoral students draw on their professional work experience to develop the skills they will need to conduct high-quality primary research in higher education administration. The program emphasizes the practice of education and consultation in colleges and universities, governmental agencies, and foundations.
Those students who are looking for an executive-style experience might be interested in Penn GSE's Executive Doctorate in Higher Education Management Ed.D. program.
Application Requirements and Deadlines Tuition and Fees Financial Aid
Andrew Moe, Ed.D., GRD'18
Andrew Moe, Ed.D., GRD'18
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
With the ability to take courses across the University of Pennsylvania, students in the Higher Education Ed.D. program can build a rigorous program of study that is specifically designed to meet their career goals with 4 required courses and 16 electives.
For more information on courses and requirements, visit the Higher Education Ed.D. program in the University Catalog.
We are here to help! Contact the program staff below:
Program Manager: Ross Aikins, raikins@gse.upenn.edu
Program Coordinator: Noel Lipki, nlipki@upenn.edu
Higher Education Ed.D. graduates accept academic and leadership positions at universities, and as leaders at government and nonprofit institutions.
A graduate degree from Penn GSE opens up whole new worlds, intellectually as well as professionally. If you are a passionate, innovative, impactful leader—or aspire to be one—Penn GSE is the place for you.
Frank Roth
Do you have questions about our programs, admissions requirements, or financial aid? We're here to help!