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Department of Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development
School leader or principal with students

Department of Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development

The Department of Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development (ELPHD) is home to over a dozen fields of study, 750 graduate students and 45 full-time faculty and staff who aim to improve education—from K-12 schools, to community colleges and universities, to workplace training—through applied theory, rigorous research, professional ethics and data-driven best practice.

Our programs

We offer numerous master’s, doctoral and certificate programs that prepare professionals for K-12 educational leadership, community college, counseling education, higher education and adult education.

Find a program for you  

Our research

Our faculty are nationally recognized experts in their fields and work alongside our graduate students and other collaborators to study complex issues in education and help drive solutions.

Dig into our research  

Our experts

Our faculty and staff are nationally recognized experts driven to improve educational outcomes and enhance student success across the education spectrum, from preK to adult education.

Meet our people 

Our outreach

Our faculty and staff are committed to extension and engagement activities in K-12 schools, higher education settings, community organizations and the workplace.

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The College of Education has prepared me for the next steps in my career through leadership experiences, self-reflection and relationship building.

Jessica Richardson ’15, ’22 MSA

Master of School Administration Graduate and 2020-21 Nash County Teacher of the Year

About the department

Students in the library

Designed for graduate students with a drive to improve the field of education, the vibrant research culture and dedicated faculty in the ELPHD department inspire and guide students from day one through teaching, advising and research opportunities.

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ELPHD Department News

More ELPHD Stories

Associate Professor of Educational Policy and Educational Leadership Jenn Ayscue Will Use Grant to Study Use of Two-way Dual Language Immersion Programs in N.C. 

National Governors Association: State Policies That Support School Leadership Development and Support 

WRAL.com: Teacher Pay, School Funding are Top of Mind in WRAL News Questionnaire 
financial help

Assistantships and Financial Aid

Thanks to the investments of donors to the College of Education, we are able to offer a number of scholarships to students in the Department of ELPHD as well as assistantship opportunities. Many are specific to students earning a degree from our department.

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Wolf statue

Admissions Information

ELPHD welcomes graduate students ready to broaden their understanding of how to solve current issues in education. Our students gain real-world experience in a supportive atmosphere and vibrant research culture devoted to learning.

Apply today