- Programs
- Find & Compare Programs
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership Independent Schools Cohort (online)
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership Independent Schools Cohort (online)
This program is designed for experienced education professionals who aspire to lead independent K–12 schools and mission-driven educational institutions.
For decades, educational systems have struggled to evolve in ways that fully meet the needs of all learners. Grounded in principles of equity and social justice, this program strengthens your capacity to lead strategic, research-informed change that improves academic opportunities, institutional sustainability, and student outcomes within independent school communities.
Program Overview
The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership Independent Schools Cohort (online) prepares you to become a critically conscious leader with the skills to think strategically, apply evidence-based research, and develop strategies to foster continuous improvement within independent school settings.
Students apply to the EDL online program, K–12 concentration. The Independent Schools Cohort follows the traditional USC Rossier EDL coursework, with readings, assignments and direct applications to practice focused on the independent school environment, including governance, mission-driven leadership and organizational strategy.
Through this program, you will:
-
Earn a doctorate from a university with a reputation for producing leaders
-
Be able to maintain a full-time work schedule
-
Learn alongside a cohort of experienced independent school professionals
-
Engage in coursework grounded in theory and practice, applying research-based frameworks to current and emerging areas of focus for independent school settings
Curriculum
The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EDL) program will equip you with knowledge and skills in six core competencies:
- Accountability
- Critical reflection
- Diversity and equity
- Ethics
- Learning organizations
- Research and data
In the first year of the program, you will complete core courses that reflect USC Rossier’s mission and the program purpose. These courses focus on developing or deepening your understanding of the way power and privilege play out in education, leadership and learning to perpetuate inequities in learning opportunities. Subsequent coursework will build on this foundation and align with your career objectives.
| Component | Courses | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Core courses | 6 | Acquire broad knowledge of the USC Rossier mission, program purpose and program competencies. |
| Concentration courses | 4 | Gain in-depth understanding specific to your career goals and develop inquiry skills to be used in the dissertation in practice. |
| Research methods courses | 2 | Understand how quantitative and qualitative research tools are used in educational research and learn to critique and design research studies. |
| Dissertation in practice | 4 | Conduct action-oriented research to solve a problem of practice. |
Dissertation in Practice
The dissertation in practice is a doctoral dissertation with a more practical focus than a traditional dissertation. Under the guidance of faculty in your concentration, you will apply relevant research methods to tackle a problem of practice that impedes access to equitable educational opportunities and outcomes. The purpose of the dissertation in practice is to equip you with the knowledge and skills you will use to address existing problems in your workplace well beyond your completion of the program. Format options for the dissertation in practice vary by concentration.
Scholarships
As an applicant, you will be automatically considered for limited, merit-based scholarships of up to $10,000. There is no need to submit a separate application for these scholarships. The admission committee selects recipients based on academic achievement, demonstrated dedication to the USC Rossier mission and other distinguishing characteristics. Priority consideration is given to those who apply by the Rossier Scholarship Deadline. All USC Rossier scholarships are awarded at the time of admission.
View USC Rossier’s scholarship finder to identify other scholarships and funding opportunities. You do not have to be admitted to apply to these scholarships. Carefully note the scholarship application deadlines, which may occur before the final program application deadline.
Financial Aid
The USC Office of Student Financial Services provides information regarding student accounts, tuition payment plans, campus-based loans, payment options and tax credits.
To be considered for financial aid, you must apply by filing the FAFSA. After you apply, the financial aid office will determine your financial need and inform you of the federal or private loans that are available to you.
Program Details
Degree Awarded
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Estimated Length
Full-Time: 3 years
Units
43
Program Cost
$2,539 per unit (estimated)
Modality
- Online
Next Deadline
April 15, 2026
Start Date
August 24, 2026
Class Times
Prior to the dissertation phase, students are assigned to one evening of classes per week on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday
Fall and Spring Semesters 5:00pm-9:50pm Pacific Time
Summer Semester 5:00pm-10:25pm Pacific Time
Take the Next Step
Faculty
Our professors are top practitioners dedicated to supporting your growth and challenging your perspective
Ruth H. Chung
Professor of Clinical Education, Educational Psychology, and Marriage and Family Therapy
Darline P. Robles
Professor of Clinical Education, Associate Dean for Diversity & Community Engagement
Program Outcomes
80+ Sitting superintendent alumni
95%
of EDL alumni said their USC Rossier education prepared them to be more effective in their career
89%
of EDL alumni said their studies at USC Rossier prepared them well for future employment
90%
of EDL alumni said their studies at USC Rossier prepared them to understand research
From Our Alumni
“My time at USC was invaluable, I enjoyed the program and the world-class faculty that assisted me in honing my skills as a practitioner-scholar.”
Tonantzin Oseguera, EdD ’13
Higher Ed Concentration Vice President for Student Affairs California State University Fullerton
“It was always a dream of mine to be a part of the University of Southern California. The doctoral program was second to none, and the connections you make will impact your career forever. My goal is to be a Superintendent, and with my doctorate, it will open doors for me to accomplish that goal. The Trojan Family is real, and we definitely take care of our own. I am proud to have earned a doctorate from the greatest University in the world.”
Henry (Kenny) Torres, EdD ’21
K-12 Concentration Principal, Santiago High School Corona-Norco Unified School District
“The EdD program taught me how to take in information that I am learning, but also how to narrow it down to manageable bites that I can use to teach others.”
Juliana Calhoun, EdD ’17, MMFT, PPS
Educational Psychology Concentration Assistant Director/Learning Specialist, USC Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity Assistant Adjunct Professor, USC Rossier School of Education
Program Contact
Jessica Romero
Assistant Director, Office of Admission and Scholarships