Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program develops scholars, practitioners, and leaders who advance knowledge in higher education and other organizational settings through research and scholarly inquiry. The program is highly individualized and results from collaborative planning involving the student, advisor, and doctoral committee.

Ph.D. Program Details

The curriculum emphasizes application of theory, empirical analysis, critical inquiry, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to advance knowledge that can help guide and inform policy and practice in a wide array of contexts. Through comprehensive coursework, research opportunities, and committed mentoring, students emerge prepared to advance scholarship and practice in their individual areas of interest.

Ph.D. Application Requirements

• Copies of all transcripts
• Resume or curriculum vita
• Statement of goals
• A minimum of three letters of references (to include both academic and professional references but they cannot be from current or former EDAH faculty)
• A sample of scholarly writing
• For International applicants, an acceptable TOEFL score
• Application deadlines:
  • For graduate assistantship priority consideration, please submit your application by December 1, 2025.
  • The final deadline for all applications is January 30, 2026.

Academic Experience

Those accepted into the program will be served by a comprehensive and high-quality curriculum structured to accommodate both full-time students and working professionals. Courses are taught by full-time faculty members in the program, with experts in the field potentially serving as co-teachers, guest speakers, or adjunct instructors. Students are encouraged to take part in research opportunities through the guidance of faculty mentors.

Ph.D. Program of Study

Students must complete 90 credit hours, consisting of the following:

• Core: 9 credit hours
  • EDAH 5013 The Adult Learner
  • EDAH 5023 Administration of Adult and Higher Education
  • EDAH 5033 Critical Literature (course under revision)
• Pro-Seminar
• Courses in Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods
• Electives
• Prospectus Development
• Dissertation Research

Additional Information on Program Requirements

Students must make a grade of “B” or better in core courses. Waivers for the core courses can be granted by the faculty advisor based on reason and how the students propose to make up for the content area. For coursework in methods and electives, students should consult with their assigned advisors.

Comprehensive Exam

Students who did not complete the comprehensive exam as an enrolled student in the EDAH M.Ed. program are required to take and pass the comprehensive exam. Students will be eligible to take the comprehensive exam after they have completed the core courses and the Pro-Seminar.

Emphasis Areas

The program offers several emphasis areas, including:

• Higher Education Administration
• Student Affairs
• Workforce, Adult, & Continuing Education
• Intercollegiate Athletic Administration

Higher Education Administration

The Higher Education Administration emphasis area focuses on understanding all administrative aspects of colleges and universities. Courses cover essential aspects of higher education management, including organizational behavior, academic leadership, financial management, and strategic planning. Example courses include:

• EDAH 5243 Financial Management in Higher Education
• EDAH 5970 Higher Education Policy
• EDAH 5193 Minority Serving Institutions (course under revision)
• EDAH 5970 Crisis Management

Student Affairs

The Student Affairs emphasis area focuses on knowledge and practices essential for fostering student development and creating supportive campus environments. The curriculum addresses student development theory, campus programming, identity formation concepts, and assessment of student services. Example courses include:

• EDAH 5223 Student Affairs in Higher Education
• EDAH 5483 College Student Development
• EDAH 5383 Issues in Student Personnel
• EDAH 5853 Student Support Services in Intercollegiate Athletics

Workforce, Adult, & Continuing Education

The Workforce, Adult, & Continuing Education emphasis area focuses on knowledge relevant for educating, training, and developing human resources in a variety of organizational settings. Coursework focuses on human resource development strategies, adult learning principles, learning technologies, and organizational change. Example courses include:

• EDAH 5443 Organizational Development and Change
• EDAH 5513 Management and Administration of Training Functions
• EDAH 5333 Program Planning for Adult Learners
• EDAH 5970 AI-Based Program Planning & Development

Intercollegiate Athletic Administration

The Intercollegiate Athletic Administration concentration focuses on understanding the complex world of intercollegiate athletics, and is philosophically embedded within the broader study of higher education. The curriculum covers sports administration, compliance, marketing and fundraising, student-athlete development, and ethical leadership. Example courses include:

• EDAH 5573 History of IA
• EDAH 5613 Ethical Decision Making in IAA
• EDAH 5813 NCAA Compliance
• EDAH 5653 Academic Reform and Athletic Advising

University of Oklahoma Summary

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Overview:

The University of Oklahoma (OU) is a comprehensive research university with a strong focus on innovation and educational excellence. It is a major contributor to the state of Oklahoma, impacting the lives of Oklahomans through scholarship, research, and healthcare. OU boasts a diverse student body representing 50 states, 76 Oklahoma counties, and 125+ countries.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

OU offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with over 400 student organizations. The university has a strong sense of community and is known for its spirited and driven atmosphere.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Research Focus:

OU is a highly ranked research university, designated as a Highest Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation.

Top-Ranked Programs:

OU is ranked #1 in the country for Aviation and Atmospheric Science & Meteorology.

Diverse Student Body:

OU welcomes students from across the globe, fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment.

Vibrant Campus Life:

With over 400 student organizations, OU offers a wide range of opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities and build community.

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Academic Programs:

OU offers over 170 academic programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly known for its strengths in research, aviation, atmospheric science, and healthcare.

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Other:

• OU has three campuses located in Norman, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa.
• The university is committed to supporting the state of Oklahoma through its research and educational initiatives.
• OU has a strong alumni network, with 80% of Oklahoma's healthcare professionals being OU graduates.