Education Program at Radford University

The Education program at Radford University is a fully online, cohort-based doctoral program designed to prepare educators to lead responsively and develop practices of collaborative inquiry, continuous improvement, and community partnership.

Overview

The program is supported by dedicated, full-time faculty who guide students in implementing a dissertation in practice to investigate and address persistent problems of practice in their own educational systems. The Radford University Ed.D. program has received the 2025 CPED Program of the Year Award, recognizing its commitment to distinguishing the Ed.D. degree as a professional practice doctorate.

Program Details

• The program is fully online, providing convenience and flexibility for working professionals.
• The program offers 7-week courses, allowing students to focus on one course at a time and still complete two courses and a dissertation research credit every semester.
• Students can complete the program in 3 years.
• The program utilizes a cohort-based model and synchronous, online courses to help students develop and sustain collaborative relationships with peers and faculty.
• The program meets Virginia Licensure Requirements for Superintendents.

Dissertation Support

• The dissertation in practice is divided into three manageable chunks aligned with the improvement science process.
• Students take one credit of dissertation research coursework each semester, designed to guide and support students through the dissertation process.

Faculty

• The program is supported by both current and retired division-level and state-level educational leaders and by scholars who are active in the fields of improvement science, practitioner inquiry, and social justice.
• Program faculty are active in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate.

Careers and Internships

• Alumni of the program work as principals, assistant superintendents, superintendents, district-level administrative positions, educational organization leaders, and higher education institutions.
• Students have the opportunity to enroll in up to 9 credit hours of internship with another PK-12 or higher education practitioner in the program as part of their coursework.

Opportunities for Education Students

• Students will have the opportunity to attend an optional, in-person retreat annually on Radford's campus, where they can learn and share with the broader community of Ed.D. students, alumni, and faculty.

Admissions Requirements

• Students must have a master's degree, in any field, from an accredited program to be considered for admission to the Ed.D. program.
• Application materials include:
  • Unofficial transcript from each college or university awarding a degree or post-baccalaureate credits
  • Three letters of recommendation addressing the applicant's potential as a doctoral student
    • One must be from the current or most recent employer
    • One must be from a professor or instructor familiar with the applicant's academic work
  • Resume
  • Writing sample (no more than 1500 words) addressing the applicant's purpose for pursuing a doctoral degree, an issue or problem in the applicant's school or district, scholars and educational leaders who have influenced the applicant's thinking and practice, and the applicant's understanding of how doctoral education can help them lead educational change
  • Admission interview
• GRE/GMAT: Not required

Related Programs

• Educational Leadership, M.S.
• The program has a 93% student retention rate and 94% of alumni completed the program within 3 years.

Transforming Education

The program is part of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate, an international network of over 135 graduate schools of education leading the charge to transform the Education Doctorate. CPED members are committed to rethinking advanced educational preparation through improved EdD program designs that offer academic rigor, practical impact, applied research, and value.

Radford University

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Overview:

Radford University is a public university located in Radford, Virginia. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and continuing education options. The university is known for its commitment to student success and its focus on providing a supportive and engaging campus environment.

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Services Offered:

Radford University offers a variety of services to its students, including:

Housing:

On-campus housing options are available for students, with a variety of residence halls and apartments to choose from.

Student Life:

The university provides numerous opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, sports, and Greek life.

Diversity & Culture:

Radford University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community, with resources and programs available to support students from all backgrounds.

Resources, Services and Support:

Students have access to a range of support services, including academic advising, career counseling, health services, and financial aid.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Radford University offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can enjoy a variety of activities, including:

Outdoor Recreation:

The university is located near the New River, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Campus Events:

Radford hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and sporting events.

Community Involvement:

Students can get involved in the local community through volunteer opportunities and service projects.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Supportive Environment:

Radford University is known for its supportive and welcoming campus community.

Affordable Education:

The university offers a variety of financial aid options to help students afford their education.

Career-Focused Programs:

Radford's academic programs are designed to prepare students for successful careers.

Beautiful Location:

The university is located in a scenic area of southwest Virginia, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

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Academic Programs:

Radford University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Programs:

The university offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in fields such as business, education, health sciences, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

Radford also offers a number of graduate programs, including master's degrees and doctoral programs.

Online Programs:

The university offers a variety of online programs for students who prefer to study remotely.

Continuing Education:

Radford provides continuing education opportunities for individuals seeking to enhance their skills or knowledge.

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Other:

Financial Aid:

Over 80% of Radford University students receive some form of financial assistance.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio:

The university has a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, providing students with personalized attention from their professors.

Diversity:

33% of Radford students are from ethnically diverse backgrounds.

Career Success:

87% of Radford graduates are on a path related to their career goals.