Coursework | Learning Environment
Curriculum & Learning Environment
Through a comprehensive curriculum and applied research, Midland University’s Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation guides students through a purposeful, year-by-year progression of coursework designed to build advanced leadership capacity.
Coursework
Doctoral students complete 54 credits (18 courses) over three years to complete the EdD program. Courses are offered exclusively online with primarily asynchronous elements. As students enter year 3 of their program, they will have more frequent live touchpoints with their dedicated dissertation in practice chair.
A full list of Midland University EdD course descriptions and credit information can be found in the Academic Catalog.
View the Academic CatalogDissertation in Practice
At the heart of our program is the Dissertation-in-Practice (DiP), designed for students to understand and utilize research to positively impact real-world change.
Unlike traditional dissertations, our DiP is integrated from start to finish, embedded into coursework across the entire program of study. This approach ensures that students conduct meaningful and manageable research over time, with consistent, guided support from a dedicated faculty member.
Writing your applied dissertation is an integral part of your academic journey, not a separate task. It is a developing process where your research grows alongside your learning and leadership development.
Flexible Online Learning
The Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation is designed for busy professionals, offering a 100% online format with flexible, primarily asynchronous courses. Each class runs Monday through Sunday, with most assignments due at the end of the week—making it easier to balance work, life, and learning. Students can immediately apply what they learn in their profession while connecting with peers from across the country and across fields. This online community fosters collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and fresh approaches to leadership and innovation, all while keeping students connected to Midland’s supportive network.
Resources
As an EdD student and part of the Midland Community, you will be offered access to several resources. Your success is our top priority!
From day one, your dedicated Cohort Coach will be there to provide one-on-one support. Whether you’re navigating your first course or preparing for your dissertation defense, your coach will offer expert guidance throughout your doctoral journey.
Our specialized Doctoral Writing Consultant is available to help you thrive as a scholarly writer. You’ll receive expert support tailored to the unique demands of doctoral-level academic and professional writing.
As a Midland EdD student, you’ll benefit from our membership with the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED). This partnership gives you access to national resources, professional development opportunities, and a powerful student network of EdD scholars and practitioners.
Your advisor will work with you to develop a degree path, provide support should academic challenges arise and celebrate success with you at graduation. The support provided by your advisor will truly set your experience as a Midland University EdD student apart from all other programs!
Our caring faculty are fully committed to your success in the classroom and your career trajectory after graduation. Through the delivery of relevant content, engaging learning experiences and support through office hours, you’ll see firsthand that Midland faculty are dedicated to seeing you succeed.
From resume support, to job placement advice to connection of professionals in your intended industry, the Career Studio is a valuable resource ready to push you and your career to the next level!