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About

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

Advancing Education through Leadership

Focused on exploring complex, contemporary issues facing the world of education today, ELPHD provides real-world, in-classroom experiences that make both our school and our graduates stand out within the field of educational leadership and development.

Our research and studies tackle a wide variety of current problems in education and society that can be effectively changed and resolved through knowledgeable leadership, policy changes, improved higher and counselor education and workforce development. Graduate students work with faculty to uncover real solutions, including community-focused leadership development for high-poverty rural schools, college access and student success, workplace bullying, and state and institutional policies that affect adult learning.

In addition to strong faculty support, ELPHD students work together through an innovative cohort model of education that recognizes the importance of diverse perspectives. Nestled in the heart of Raleigh – one of the fastest-rising cities in the country – NC State gives ELPHD all the advantages of being connected to a large university, while our close-knit department maintains a small-college feel with a collaborative environment, and the robust post-graduate support it takes to help students succeed in future careers.