UNCW's Ed.D. in Higher Education Ranked 23rd Nationally

UNCW’s Doctorate in Educational Leadership has been ranked 23^rd in the nation by EdDPrograms.org. The ranking for Best Online EdD in Higher Education Programs of 2025 was based on factors including academic rigor, strong completion rates and measurable post-graduation success. The ranking referenced WCE’s Ed.D. specializations in Higher Education and Community College Leadership.

“UNCW has offered a very strong doctoral specialization in the field of higher education and student affairs administration for over a decade,” said Andrew Ryder, chair of WCE’s Department of Educational Leadership. “Last year, we introduced a new Ed.D. specialization specifically tailored to the community college segment. The new Community College Leadership specialization builds on UNCW’s strong partnerships with the 58 community colleges in our state and UNCW/3C, a WCE-led university-community college collaborative. We are pleased to see both of these doctoral concentrations recognized at the national level.”

UNCW’s Watson College introduced a doctoral program in Educational Leadership and Administration in 2007. Since then, three additional areas of concentration have been added. Today, more than 200 UNCW Ed.D. alumni are making an impact in educational leadership roles in schools, colleges and universities, and government agencies across the state and the nation.

About WCE’s Ed.D. Program

WCE’s Ed.D. program offers four areas of specialization: educational administration, curriculum & instruction, higher education and community college leadership. Each specialization provides an in-depth study of the organization, administration, staffing, funding and leadership experience at institutions in the respective field.

WCE’s programs are designed for working professionals. They focus on research-based practice and are offered in a cohort model to provide a strong community of support for future education leaders. Other distinctive features include an intellectually challenging curriculum, award-winning faculty members and applied learning experiences, including a unique international internship opportunity for students enrolled in higher education and community college leadership programs.

For more information please visit the Ed.D. website.