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on campus graduate

Ed.D. in Leadership and Professional Practice

With an interdisciplinary focus on leadership, research and professional practice, the in-person Ed.D. builds the leadership capacity of professionals in fields such as education, medicine, religion and business so that they can solve real-world problems and bring transformational change to their organizations.

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National Recognition

Trevecca’s Ed.D. is earning elite accolades from respected sources nationwide, including these recent rankings:

  • #1 most affordable doctorate in education (Fortune)
  • #3 online doctorate in education (Fortune)
  • One of the nation’s best online Doctor of Education programs (Princeton Review)
  • #9 education doctorate for minorities (EDU Ledger)

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Benefits of the in-person doctorate in leadership

  • Attend class at our Nashville campus one Saturday per month
  • Graduate on an accelerated 24-month timeline, created with flexibility for working professionals
  • Complete your program with a supportive cohort of students who are working toward similar goals
  • Enjoy a collaborative learning environment made possible by our small class sizes
  • Learn from faculty who possess the highest degrees in their fields and have relevant and valuable experience
  • Complete your dissertation as you progress through the program, on a topic that addresses relevant problems in your field

What to expect from your doctorate in leadership

CPED Member Since 2024As a student in Trevecca’s in-person Ed.D. program, you’ll gain leadership skills and knowledge through a research-based curriculum that moves you from theory to practice. You’ll learn how to solve real-world challenges, initiate transformational change and lead yourself, your team and your organization. 

Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs 2025As part of your coursework, you’ll focus on planning for strategic improvement; strengthening organizational culture and performance; understanding the value of intrapersonal effectiveness; communicating with diverse stakeholders; applying research effectively; and ultimately mastering the skills it takes to develop and sustain successful organizations. You’ll dive deeper into these ideas as you work on your dissertation, researching a topic in conjunction with your coursework that pertains to your passions and career. When you complete your degree, you’ll have practical solutions in hand.

Over the course of two years, classes will generally meet one Saturday per month, with two three-day residency requirements each summer. Located in the heart of Nashville, our campus offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Students benefit from small class sizes and develop personal relationships with faculty members who serve as both professors and mentors.

The cohort model is one of the reasons Trevecca’s Ed.D. has become one of the most successful in the Southeast. It’s a highly successful experience that allows students to complete their degree alongside classmates with similar goals in an atmosphere that cultivates accountability and networking.

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The in-person Trevecca Ed.D. program transforms practitioners into professional leaders. It sharpened and shaped the leader I am, and also how I presented in the marketplace. It changed my life, and I am forever grateful.
Dr. Demetria Corlew Trevecca graduate

Tuition & Costs

Here’s a look at the approximate tuition rates you could expect for this program at Trevecca, including the cost per credit hour and the total tuition expense for the full degree program. Please note that rates and fees are subject to change.

Here’s a look at the approximate tuition rates you could expect for this program at Trevecca, including the cost per credit hour and the total tuition expense for the full degree program. Please note that rates and fees are subject to change.

Cost/Credit Hour

$725

Hours

60

Tuition Cost*

$43,500

*$150 Student Resource Fee assessed per course

Prefer an online format?

Discover the Ed.D. in organizational leadership & innovation, designed for flexibility, career-specific tracks and a dissertation you can complete alongside your coursework.

Here’s a look at the approximate tuition rates you could expect for this program at Trevecca, including the cost per credit hour and the total tuition expense for the full degree program. Please note that rates and fees are subject to change.

Career Opportunities: Ed.D. in Leadership and Professional Practice

The Doctor of Education in leadership and professional practice provides professionals with the tools to be successful agents of change and influence in a variety of industries. Our graduates currently serve in respected leadership roles in fields like these:

  • Business
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Ministry
  • Government
  • Law enforcement
  • Healthcare

Led by faculty who also serve as highly credentialed experts throughout their respective fields, Trevecca’s Ed.D. takes a research-based, theory-into-practice approach to its curriculum, including the topics of:

  • Leadership (how to initiate transformational change and lead oneself, a team and organizations). 
  • Research (applied research, statistics, research-based technology).

As part of your Ed.D. coursework, you’ll learn how to create effective organizations; ways to plan for strategic improvement; how to build teamwork and foster collaboration; the value of intrapersonal effectiveness and more. Students will receive instruction on cultural influences to consider when building and leading a team in addition to the latest insight on research-based technology.

Dissertation Details

Your applied research dissertation will be a comprehensive study of a significant problem that is important to you in your area of professional work. You will research your proposed topic, demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the relevant literature, explain the research methods used to conduct the study and present your research findings and conclusions.

The goal of an applied research dissertation is to provide important evidence for improving the workplace while also adding to the body of knowledge. Our four-chapter dissertation model represents the highest standards for terminal degrees.

Trevecca’s curriculum is unique in that students work on their dissertation in conjunction with their classes. You will be assigned a faculty advisor and reader to work with throughout the process. We provide guidance and encouragement while you are working on your dissertation so that when you complete your courses in as few as 24 months, your dissertation is also complete.

Our highly qualified team of faculty and staff are committed to your success as you complete this doctoral program. We are behind you every step of the way! Throughout the Ed.D. program, you’ll have your own support team. From academic advisors to dissertation advisors, Trevecca is committed to helping you finish your degree and your dissertation at the same time.

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  1. Complete the free online application
    Need help applying? Read the step-by-step instructions here!
  2. Fill out  FAFSA to be considered for financial aid (Trevecca’s school code: 003526).
  3. Request official transcripts from your previous graduate institution.
  4. Submit all additional materials to your dedicated enrollment counselor.

Requirements

  1. A master's degree from an institution accredited by a CHEA-recognized regional accrediting agency or the Association for Biblical Higher Education. Students who do not meet these degree requirements may be conditionally accepted in accordance with the Conditional Admission Policy.
  2. A 3.4 cumulative GPA for all prior graduate coursework.
  3. Official transcript sent directly from graduate institution to Trevecca.
  4. Two recommendations submitted directly by your professional and/or academic references using our online form.
  5. Current resume  or curriculum vitae (CV)
  6. Writing sample, to be submitted to the program director (After all other application documents are submitted, a link will be sent to applicants where they can complete the writing assessment.)
  7. A photocopy of government-issued identification (e.g., driver's license, state ID, military ID, passport). This requirement ensures that Trevecca complies with the U.S. Department of Education expectations for student verification.
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Emerald Mitchell ’16 

 

Kevin Dyson ‘18

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Why Choose Trevecca?

CPED Member Since 2024Founded in 1901 and a leader in online education for more than two decades, Trevecca helps students discover and pursue an individual calling by providing innovative instruction; cultivating a supportive, Christ-centered community; and establishing relationships that open doors.

Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs 2025Recognized nationally and locally for academic quality, Trevecca has earned a reputation for providing the world with servant leaders, problem solvers and difference makers. Trevecca’s holistic approach to education encompasses intellectual, social, emotional, physical and spiritual growth.

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Course Descriptions

Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.

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Financial Aid & Costs

Financial Aid & Costs

Nearly every student at Trevecca receives some form of assistance in paying for college. Learn all about the affordability of a TNU education and options for receiving aid.

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Next Steps

App Process & Timeline

Submit Your Application

Our application is easy and typically takes less than 7 minutes to complete. Submit your app to get the process started!

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Complete FAFSA

9 out of 10 students at Trevecca receive some form of financial aid. Complete your FAFSA today for the best chance at locking yours in!

Complete your FAFSA

Send Your Transcripts

To ensure credit for prior education and to expedite your enrollment, make sure to send over your transcripts!

Send your transcripts

Our Ed.D. Faculty

  • Portrait for James Agee

    James Agee, Ph.D.

    Professor

    James’ specialization is in statistics, research and management, which he teaches in a variety of programs across campus, including the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). He received his Ph.D. from the State University of New York (Albany) ...

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  • Portrait for Ronald Barredo

    Ronald Barredo

    Dean of the School of STEM and Health Sciences

  • Portrait for Melinda Burch

    Melinda Burch

    Associate Professor

    After completing her undergraduate education at Trevecca, Mindy started her career as a middle school math teacher in Clarksville, TN and completed her master's degree at Austin Peay State University. After moving back to Nashville, she worked at ...

    Read Full Bio
  • Portrait for Eda Cako-Moore

    Eda Cako-Moore

    Faculty Recruiter, Director of Science in Business Management Program

    Eda is a full-time instructor in the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies. She holds a B.S. in intercultural communications and an MBA with a concentration in management and leadership from Trevecca. Eda also serves as program director of ...

    Read Full Bio
  • Portrait for LaMetrius Daniels

    LaMetrius Daniels

    Associate Vice President, Dean of the Graduate School

    As dean of online learning & support services at Trevecca, LaMetrius serves as a catalyst for change and innovation in education. She provides strategic leadership for online and blended learning programs and manages a team of instructional ...

    Read Full Bio
  • Portrait for Avery Finch

    Avery Finch

    Adjunct Faculty

    Dr. Avery Finch is an experienced educational leader who serves as an adjunct professor in the School of Education and the School of Leadership and Interdisciplinary Studies. With nearly two decades of experience in public education, including ...

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  • Portrait for Sam Green

    Sam Green

    Director, Center for Worship

    Samuel is chair of the Department of Worship for the School of Music and Worship Arts. He also serves as the director of Undergraduate Research and the Quality Enhancement Plan at the University. He holds degrees from Tennessee State University ...

    Read Full Bio
  • Portrait for Shataia Gresham Howard

    Shataia Gresham Howard

    Adjunct Faculty

  • Portrait for Marc Haas

    Marc Haas

    Adjunct Faculty

  • Portrait for Lisa McGrady

    Lisa McGrady

    Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness

  • Portrait for Alice Patterson

    Alice Patterson

    Director, Ed.D. Program

    Alice is the director of Trevecca's on-site Ed.D. program and an associate professor of graduate education. Alice served on Trevecca’s Ed.D. development team and teaches courses at the doctoral levels. She holds a bachelor’s, master’s and ...

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  • Portrait for Gary Streit

    Gary Streit

    Adjunct Faculty

  • Portrait for Heidi Ventura

    Heidi Ventura

    Professor, Associate Dean of Academic Research and Innovation

    In her administrative faculty role, Heidi provides leadership for nontraditional undergraduate and graduate programs, faculty and students. In her instructional faculty role, she holds faculty rank as associate professor, teaching doctoral ...

    Read Full Bio
  • Portrait for Jeffrey Wells

    Jeffrey Wells

    Professor, Communication Studies

    Jeffrey has taught communication and theatre at the collegiate level since 1991. He rejoined the Trevecca community in June of 2016 after serving as chair for the division of communication arts and director of theatre at Oklahoma Baptist ...

    Read Full Bio
Headshot of Fernando Almeida

Studying at Trevecca has helped me to strengthen and confirm what I already knew about myself, while at the same time allowing me to discover new areas of personal development I was not aware of.

Fernando Almeida Ed.D. graduate

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Course Descriptions

Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.*



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Cohort Schedule

View a sample schedule of the courses you will be taking when you enroll.

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Intrapersonal Leadership
EDD 8054
The first in a three-part series, this course examines the four levels of leadership: personal, interpersonal, managerial, and organizational. The focus of part one is to apply an evidence-based approach to examine the theories of individual motivation and behavior. Candidates analyze their personal character and competence as leaders, with the goal of maximizing their personal effectiveness. Candidates are encouraged to develop a habit of scientifically based practice of continual examination of their own effectiveness and use of their evidence-based learning to effect personal improvement.
Research-Based Technology
EDD 8603
Assists the student in learning the uses of technology that facilitate the completion of the doctoral dissertation. Elements may include word processing, library databases, spreadsheets, internet, project management software, web pages, and other appropriate applications. It is additionally used as a platform for the student to begin exploring the information available so as to begin a habit of seeking evidence-based data in the employment of scientifically based practice within the professional environment.
Research II: Research Design and Measurements
EDD 8602
Extends the depth of study in research established in Scientifically Based Practice: Research I. An emphasis is placed on methodology, research design, statistical analysis, and data reporting. An efficient use of technology for all phases of the dissertation is employed by the candidate in the completion of this course.
Leadership 2: Collaborative Teamwork and Team Development
EDD 8055
Building on the foundation laid in EDD 8051, this course is an extension from study of individual behavior and effectiveness to analysis of group or team behavior and leadership effectiveness. A collaborative team-based learning culture is utilized to simulate real-life problems and team-building processes. Course topics include: leadership dimensions, team learning, development and management, diversity, and organizational analysis and development. An evidence-based foundation is employed to support student learning and exposure to best practices expressed by recognized leaders in team building concepts.
Applied Statistics
EDD 8604
Designed to equip candidates to incorporate statistical analysis into educational research. The different types of data and the tests appropriate for each are discussed and practices. Successful completion of this course enables candidates to analyze their data gathered for dissertations and to draw definite conclusions from their data. Additionally, candidates in the evidence-based educational environment are equipped to review the methodology and data generated by scientifically based research and draw useful and reliable conclusions from that data.
Leading Transformational Change
EDD 8057
Examines the multiple facets associated with both andragogical and pedagogical change from the fundamental conceptualization of the design phase through the implementation phase. A meaningful learning experience is emphasized along with the capture of teachable moments and the culmination phase of evaluation and revision. The candidate is expected to use evidence-based practice to form the pillars of a learning experience, evaluation, and revision for improvement.
Leadership 3: Creating Effective Organizations
EDD 8056
The culmination of individual behavior/effectiveness and team behavior/effectiveness, this course provides the candidate with a comprehensive understanding of the way in which total organizational effectiveness is conceptualized, measured, and realized in practice. The course also explores the ways change associated with organizational improvement is effectively managed. It assists practitioners in understanding how quality improvement can be initialized, managed, and sustained at all levels within the organization to achieve total value-added improvement. An evidence-based foundation is employed through exposure to best practices and the concepts of recognized leaders in organizational leadership and improvement.
Applied Leadership
EDD 8058
Practicing leadership is providing vision and direction, modeling good exemplars, and doing what is needed for people in the organization to succeed. Leadership practice is also an art in knowing what to do and when to do it, why you do it, and how to do it. The purpose of this course is to explore best practices that have been identified to assist in the establishment of organizations. Strong leadership practices entail fostering continuous improvement and rethinking the connections in the relationships of stakeholders through the formation of problem-solving teams. The linkage among stakeholders is encouraged and emphasized as a result of evidence-based examination of best practices.
Dissertation
EDD 8211-8217
Cultural Influences
EDD 8301
Engages a thorough study of the multiple elements that impact learning: conflict, cultural groupings, discrimination, ethnicity, ethnocentrism, fragmentation, prejudice, bias, stereotyping, the role of culture in people's lives, and other elements that influence beliefs, values, and decisions are investigated. The candidate is given an opportunity to expand personally and professionally through an evidence-based examination of how culture influences the workplace.
Ethical Leadership
EDD 8302
Within the context of a candidate's professional practices, s/he will focus on an issue of interest. Candidates will explore the ethical issues, power, and future issues in his/her area of interest. Candidates will reflect on the research and explorations and delineate the knowledge and abilities critical for a changing world.

*For a complete list of courses, tracks and other relevant information, view the program's course catalog.

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