Program Overview
The Ed.D. Concentration for Pre-K to 12th grade school leaders combines theoretical knowledge and practical application in an authentic school setting using the student's professional experience in school leadership. It is a sequenced 50-credit online program to be completed during a three-year time frame.
Program Requirements
- Two research projects related to the development design of the action research dissertation
- Action research dissertation study and oral dissertation defense
What Students Are Saying
– Elizabeth DeMichino-Acquadro, '20
Elizabeth DeMichino-Acquadro, '20, embodies the concept of hard work. Originally intent
on becoming a doctor, she began her career in education as a substitute teacher. Through
the years, Acquadro's dedication to educating students earned her promotion after
promotion. Currently, she's the dean of academics at Oratory Prep, a 7-12 Catholic
day school for boys in Summit, N.J., but ultimately plans to lead her own school.
"Getting my doctorate in educational leadership will pave the way for even more leadership
positions," explains Acquardo, who also earned her master's in educational leadership
at SEU. "I like the atmosphere at the University and identify strongly with the mission."
In fact, Acquadro hopes to one day lead a school that echoes SEU's commitment to fostering
a familial atmosphere and promoting social justice. Being the first person in her
family to graduate from college, Acquadro hopes her personal passion for education
will inspire her students to get excited about learning.
"I love learning both in my classroom and in everything that I do," says Acquadro.
"I want to be at the forefront of promoting education."
Born to a Vietnamese mother, Acquadro was adopted into an Italian family who ignited
her curiosity and instilled in her a respect for hard work.
"I come from a long line of incredibly hardworking people," says Acquadro. "My grandfather
worked full-time well into his 80s and my 93-year-old grandmother would still be working
if she were physically able."
Unfortunately, Acquadro's parents passed away when she and her brother were relatively
young.
"I never saw myself in this position and when I think of how far I've come, I know
my parents are proud of me," says Acquadro. "Knowing they'd be proud makes all of
the hard work, sacrifices and long hours worth it."