Asbury University introduces its first-ever doctoral program, expanding its graduate offerings with a Christ-centered Doctor of Education designed to prepare transformational leaders for schools around the world.
Asbury University has announced the launch of the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in P-12 Educational Leadership, the University’s first doctoral degree in its 135-year history. Offered through Asbury’s School of Education under the umbrella of Graduate Programs, the fully online degree equips current and aspiring educational leaders to serve with excellence, integrity and Christ-centered leadership in schools and educational organizations.
Beginning in Fall 2027, the Ed.D. in P-12 Educational Leadership prepares educators for leadership roles in P-12 schools while strengthening their ability to influence educational systems through research, innovation and servant leadership. Interested Ed.D. candidates can sign up to be notified about when the application opens on August 1.
Under the outstanding academic leadership of Dr. Sherry Powers, Asbury University continues to break new ground in our programs.”
“The Doctor of Education program is not only Asbury’s first doctoral offering, but well suited to the scope and mission of Asbury’s commitment to Academic Excellence and Spiritual Vitality.”
Asbury graduates will be equipped to pursue positions such as principals, district administrators, instructional leaders and other executive leadership roles within education. While the degree may also qualify graduates for teaching opportunities in higher education, its primary emphasis is preparing leaders to make a lasting impact in P-12 education.
Asbury has a long tradition of preparing educators who serve with both professional excellence and Christian conviction."
“This new Ed.D. in P-12 Leadership builds on that legacy by offering advanced, research-based preparation and faith-centered mentorship equipping leaders to make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.”
Asbury's first doctoral program reflects the University's continued commitment to equipping Christian leaders who influence education locally, nationally and around the world.
Designed for working professionals, the Ed.D. combines academic rigor with the flexibility today’s educators need. Students complete the program entirely online through a combination of synchronous evening classes and accelerated eight-week courses. Small class sizes—capped at approximately 25 students—allow faculty members to provide personalized mentoring while fostering meaningful collaboration among classmates.
Students may transfer up to 24 hours of previously completed graduate coursework into the 60-credit-hour program, depending on prior academic experience and transcript evaluation. Individual plans of study will vary by applicant, but qualified students may complete the degree in as little as three years. Tuition is $675 per credit hour, plus applicable course fees.
The program’s Christ-centered approach distinguishes it from other educational leadership doctorates. Faculty intentionally integrate biblical principles with research-based leadership practices, preparing graduates to lead with wisdom, compassion and ethical conviction in both public and private educational settings.
Today's schools need leaders who are prepared to navigate complex challenges while remaining grounded in character and purpose. Our new Ed.D. program empowers educators to directly confront these systemic issues."
The degree provides flexibility for educators serving across the United States and internationally, including leaders in Christian schools around the world. Asbury also offers students individualized support throughout the admissions process and their academic journey, allowing each student to build meaningful relationships with professors, advisors and admissions counselors.
The launch of the Ed.D. strengthens Asbury University’s expanding portfolio of graduate education programs while reinforcing its mission to prepare men and women for lives of leadership and service.
Prospective students interested in learning more about the program will have opportunities to attend virtual information sessions and orientation webinars beginning in Spring 2027.
Asbury University’s School of Education offers traditional and online undergraduate education programs, the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) for initial teacher certification, and master’s degrees in English as a Second Language, Learning and Behavior Disorders, Literacy Specialist P-12, and Principal Licensure.
Additional graduate offerings include the Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Principal Licensure with Instructional Supervisor (dual licensure), along with certifications for Director of Pupil Personnel, Instructional Supervisor and School Superintendent.
For more information about the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in P-12 Educational Leadership, contact Dr. Sharon Bixler or Jim Freeman in Graduate Admissions.