The University of West Alabama's online Doctor of Education in Rural Education is specifically designed to address critical issues pertaining to rural schools and districts. As the first program of its kind in the nation, this advanced degree emphasizes rural students' unique challenges and needs.
The online EdD in Rural Education is open to applicants with a master's degree in any discipline and is delivered online in a flexible, asynchronous format. Complete your degree in four years and work closely with expert faculty who have years of experience in rural education. Because this program uses open educational resources, you will save on the cost of textbooks. You can also transfer up to 15 credits to accelerate your time to completion.
As a student, you'll engage with data collection and analysis practices that inform statewide decision-making processes in education policy and complete a dissertation focused on rural education. The curriculum was created in conjunction with Alabama school districts and expert superintendents to ensure you gain relevant skills you can apply in a variety of contexts.
The EdD includes five tracks that allow you to specialize your studies. Options include counseling, higher education administration, organizational change and leadership, teacher leader and library media. Each of these tracks will develop your skills in focused areas to prepare you for the demands of your chosen professional path.