College of Human Development, Culture, and Media
Seton Hall University’s Ed.D. in Higher Education is designed for experienced higher education professionals who want to deepen their leadership, administrative, and research expertise.
Through a blend of theory, applied research and practical experience, the program prepares students to navigate complex institutional challenges and lead effectively in colleges, universities and state education agencies.
Small, selective cohorts ensure personalized advising and close faculty mentorship, while evening classes and flexible pacing support working professionals. Graduates emerge with the analytical, supervisory and decision-making skills needed to shape learning-centered organizations and advance into senior leadership roles across the higher education landscape.
Ed.D. Program Highlights:
- Small, selective program with close faculty mentorship
- Flexible scheduling, with evening classes, full- or part-time study
- Practical research integrated with leadership development
- Designed for working professionals in higher education
Accreditation & Awards
"We have highly dedicated faculty members who have expertise in multiple areas, including policy, student affairs, organization, governance and finance."
Admissions Requirements
The program reviews applications on a rolling basis for the Fall and Spring semesters. Priority application review for the Fall is typically in March with Spring reviewed in October. Additional applications are considered following the priority review on a space-available basis.
To be considered for admission, applicants are required to submit the following materials:
- Online application and application fee
- Official transcript(s) from all institutions attended, including an earned Master's-level degree (cumulative GPA of at least 3.0)
- Letters of recommendation (2) from academic and/or professional references
- Personal statement with indication of specialization to be pursued
- Resume/Curriculum vitae
Note: Credits earned from other institutions or other programs at Seton Hall cannot be transferred and applied to the 45-credit requirement.
Deadlines
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Deadline to apply
Rolling
Curriculum Overview
The 45-credit curriculum is structured to help students develop a deep understanding of higher education as an organizational system while advancing their leadership, administrative and research skills.
Coursework includes:
- Foundational Study in Higher Education: Explore the history, governance, policy environment and organizational structures of colleges, universities and statewide education systems.
- Professional Preparation for Administrative Roles: Engage with topics related to student affairs, academic affairs, finance, planning, diversity, institutional research, legal issues and leadership practice. Students select from a range of courses that allow them to tailor the program to their professional goals.
- Research and Inquiry: Build competency in quantitative and qualitative research methods, data analysis, program evaluation and evidence-based decision-making to support effective institutional leadership.
- Advanced Study and Dissertation Preparation: Complete advanced research coursework and participate in a seminar that guides students through the development of their dissertation proposal, followed by the dissertation itself.
The program includes a comprehensive examination and culminates in the successful defense of a doctoral dissertation.
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45
Credits
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4
Years to Complete
Empowering Future Leaders
Our Ed.D. program prepares students to become influential leaders, making a significant impact in the higher education arena.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Ed.D. in Higher Education program are prepared for senior-level roles across a wide range of postsecondary settings.
Alumni go on to serve as:
- Higher education administrators and executive leaders
- Directors and supervisors in student affairs, academic affairs, enrollment management or institutional research
- Policy specialists and analysts in state Departments of Education
- Program directors, deans, or other senior campus leaders involved in planning, assessment
and organizational development
With its strong focus on applied leadership, practical research and personalized mentorship, the program positions graduates to advance their careers and shape the future of higher education.
Our graduates make an impact at world-class institutions.
Our Faculty and Students
Outstanding Faculty Honored at Annual Excellence Awards
Higher Education Graduate Student Association Celebrates Community and Accomplishments
From The Classroom to Career: Alumni Offer Guidance to Graduate Students
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Seton Hall University is committed to providing students with the most current information on how to finance your graduate degree. A graduate degree is within your reach – a variety of options can help you finance your degree including scholarships, federal aid, graduate assistantships, and more.
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50%
Amount Scholarships Can Reduce Cost of Degree
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about the comprehensive exam?
What are the requirements for the dissertation?
Where can I access additional FAQ's?
Additional Resources
Ph.D. in Higher Education
Higher Education Graduate Student Association (HEGSA)
Office of Fieldwork and Certification
Request More Information
Office of Graduate Affairs
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About Seton Hall
One of the country's leading Catholic Universities, Seton Hall University has been developing students in mind, heart and spirit since 1856.
Home to over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offering more than 90 undergraduate programs and over 130 graduate programs, Seton Hall's academic excellence has been singled out for distinction by The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report and Bloomberg Businessweek.
Seton Hall's 58-acre campus in the quaint town of South Orange, New Jersey, is only 14 miles from New York City — offering students a wealth of employment, internship, cultural and entertainment opportunities. The University’s nationally recognized School of Law is located in nearby Newark, New Jersey. The Interprofessional Health Sciences (IHS) campus in the owns of Clifton and Nutley, New Jersey, houses the University’s College of Nursing and School of Health and Medical Sciences.
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1856
Founded by James Roosevelt Bayley
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14
Miles from New York City
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90+
Career-Building Graduate Programs
