Welcome to the Ed.D. Website.

The Ed.D. Program at Aurora University is an innovative doctoral program developed at the request of Kane County public school superintendents. Its creators wanted a practice-based program that was academically and professionally rigorous. They also wanted a flexible and candidate-friendly program. How does the program manage to be practice-based, academically rigorous, and candidate-friendly?

1. Cohort Approach: Each candidate becomes part of a stable cohort of candidates. Faculty creates a collegial, friendly, and collaborative environment that supports rigorous study. The cohort stays together for the 3 years of the program.
2. Faculty Focus: The full-time faculty in the Ed.D. Program are all senior professors with considerable expertise in their subject areas. Because they teach only in the doctoral program, they are able to give extensive professional and academic advisement to candidates. Other professors in the College of Education and clinical faculty teach a few courses in the curriculum; however, these faculty are all recognized leaders/experts in their subject areas.
3. Curriculum Stability: The curriculum is carefully designed so that candidates can complete all requirements in 3 years. The Ed.D. Program consistently offers the courses as laid out in the curriculum; candidates can count on the stability and availability of courses.
4. Emphasis on Practice: The Ed.D. Program develops better practioners. This is done by melding theory, academic study, and practice in readings, assignments, and dissertations.
5. Curriculum Articulation: The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive program for candidates. Courses and assignments are carefully coordinated and sequenced for candidate growth from course to course. Graduates will develop a solid understanding of curriculum and instruction or administration as well as individual areas of specialization.
6. Research: All candidates will receive a strong grounding in research and inquiry. It is possible to specialize in quantitative or qualitative methods; historical, philosophical, and theoretical methods of inquiry are also accommodated. Candidates are expected to conduct research in areas relevant to their practice and to apply research appropriately.