Bradley’s Online Ed.D. Combines Close-Knit Cohorts & Broad Network of Leaders

October 15, 2026

Bradley University is accepting applications for the fall 2027 semester of its fully online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program. Designed for working professionals, the 48-credit-hour program offers two concentrations and a path to completing the degree by May 2030 for students who take two courses each fall, spring and summer semester.

Students enter the program with a small group of peers who progress together through their degree. Bradley’s modified cohort model also brings students together with those from other cohorts and concentrations in core and action research courses.

“Our students bring a wealth of experience to the program, and learning from one another is an important part of their doctoral journey,” said Dr. Jana Hunzicker, director of Bradley’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program. “This approach gives them a strong community of peers while creating opportunities to consider new perspectives and bring fresh ideas back to their work places.”

Courses are delivered asynchronously, giving working professionals flexibility in when they complete their coursework. The program’s two concentrations allow students to connect their doctoral work to their goals:

• Digital and Online Education focuses on leading online learning, instructional design and the use of technology in education and training.
• Higher Education Administration prepares students for leadership in areas such as student affairs, academic affairs and university operations.

The concentrations are particularly relevant for practicing teachers and college-level faculty and staff. Anyone with an earned master’s degree in any field is eligible for admission.

According to Bradley’s spring 2026 program review, 92% of the program’s alumni have advanced in their careers, including graduates promoted within their institutions and those hired into leadership roles elsewhere. The Princeton Review included Bradley in its Best Online Doctor of Education Programs for 2026.

Prospective students can learn more about Bradley’s online Ed.D. program and its application process here.