The Cohort Model
The program is based on the cohort model, in which a group of students moves through all classes and phases of the program together. Students benefit from:
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Mutual academic, emotional, and logistical support for program success and timely completion;
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Camaraderie and collaborative learning with experienced colleagues; and
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Lasting personal ties and professional networks that aid in career development, ongoing professional growth, and reform initiatives across schools, districts, or colleges.
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With its track record of success with cohorts in the Master’s Program, the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy
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Studies is well-positioned to maximize the advantages of the cohort model in the Doctoral Program.
PreK-12 Leadership Cohort
The program is unique in offering two cohort strands: PreK-12 and Community College. There are different versions of each course for each cohort, with a small number of specialized courses taken only by PreK-12 or Community College Cohort students. This two-strand approach allows for courses that can specifically address the issues, needs and interests distinctive to each level of educational leadership, such as promoting instructional leadership for the elimination of achievement gaps and managing accountability pressures in public schools.
Students in the PreK-12 Leadership Cohort will generally be experienced school administrators. However, those who need to complete their Tier II Professional Administrative Credential may do so through an induction plan within the program. In addition to taking classes in school reform, leadership, and research methods, students engage in field-based inquiry and dissertation research to address school/district problems.
Community College Leadership Cohort
The program is unique in offering two cohort strands: PreK-12 and Community College. There are different versions of each course for each cohort, with a small number of specialized courses taken only by PreK-12 or Community College Cohort students. This two-strand approach allows for courses that can specifically address the issues, needs and interests distinctive to each level of educational leadership, such as promoting instructional leadership for the achievement of diverse community college students and developing organizational strategy, resource management, communication, and other skills to meet the Competencies for Community College Leaders of the American Association of Community Colleges.
Students in the Community College Leadership Cohort will generally be experienced educators interested in pursuing advanced leadership positions, such as dean or college president. In addition to taking classes in community college reform, leadership, and research methods, students engage in field-based inquiry that offers experience with college operations and improvement efforts.