College of Human Development, Culture, and Media
Seton Hall University’s Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management and Policy program prepares scholar-practitioners to address the most pressing challenges facing colleges and universities today.
Designed for aspiring leaders, policymakers, and researchers, the program combines rigorous academic training with practical applications that directly inform higher education practice and governance.
The program is officially recognized as a STEM-designated doctoral degree, reflecting its strong focus on data analysis, statistical modeling, and evidence-based decision-making. This distinction gives graduates a competitive edge through:
- Career readiness built on advanced research and evaluation skills.
- Expanded opportunities for international students, including eligibility for a STEM OPT extension of up to three years.
- Stronger marketability as employers seek leaders skilled in navigating higher education’s data-driven environment.
In addition, the Ph.D. program offers a 48-credit concentration in Higher Education
Research, Assessment, and Program Evaluation, which is intended to meet the growing
demands for professional staff and leaders in educational organizations focused on
data-driven decision making, program evaluation, assessment and testing, and teacher
or faculty pedagogical development.
Accreditation & Awards
"We have highly dedicated faculty members who have expertise in multiple areas, including policy, student affairs, organization, governance and finance."
Admissions Requirements
The program reviews applications on a rolling basis for the Fall and Spring semesters. Priority application review for the Fall is typically in March with Spring reviewed in October. Additional applications are considered following the priority review on a space-available basis.
To be considered for admission, applicants are required to submit the following materials:
- Online application and application fee
- Official transcript(s) from all institutions attended, including an earned Master's-level degree (cumulative GPA of at least 3.0)
- Letters of recommendation (2) from academic and/or professional references
- Personal statement with indication of specialization to be pursued
- Resume/Curriculum vitae
Deadlines
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Deadline to apply
Rolling
International Students Welcome!
Seton Hall welcomes applications from international students for admission into full-time graduate degree programs.
Curriculum Overview
The Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management and Policy offers a 45-credit, cohort-based curriculum designed for experienced education professionals.
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of higher education and the tools to lead effectively in today’s complex environment. Throughout the program, you will develop expertise in:
- Higher education policy and leadership – analyzing and shaping the forces that impact institutions.
- Organizational and financial management – applying data-driven strategies to improve institutional effectiveness.
- Research design and evaluation – mastering advanced qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods.
In addition, students build broad expertise in the history and global context of higher education, current policy debates, foundational theories of teaching and learning, and the data resources that drive research and decision-making. Coursework also emphasizes leadership, ethics, and reflective practice, preparing graduates to address complex challenges and make meaningful contributions to higher education at every level.
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45-48
Credits
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4
Years to Complete
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3
Years of U.S. work eligibility with STEM OPT Extension
Empowering Future Leaders
Our Ph.D. program prepares students to become influential leaders, making a significant impact in the higher education arena.
Career Opportunities
With a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management and Policy, graduates are prepared for advanced roles in higher education administration and leadership.
Graduates can lead change and innovation within colleges and universities, shape policy in higher education program development, and contribute to the improvement of educational systems. This degree equips higher education professionals with deep insights into higher education leadership, allowing them to tackle complex challenges in higher education administration. Their expertise paves the way for careers as university administrators, policy makers, and leaders in educational organizations.
Our Faculty and Students
Outstanding Faculty Honored at Annual Excellence Awards
Making Graduate Education Attainable: Seton Hall Strengthens Student Support
Trailblazing in Education and Advocacy: Alumna Inspires the Next Generation of Global Leaders
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Seton Hall University is committed to providing students with the most current information on how to finance your graduate degree. A graduate degree is within your reach – a variety of options can help you finance your degree including scholarships, federal aid, graduate assistantships, and more.
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50%
Amount Scholarships Can Reduce Cost of Degree
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about the comprehensive exam?
What are the requirements for the dissertation?
Where can I access additional FAQ's?
Additional Resources
Higher Education Graduate Student Association (HEGSA)
Office of Fieldwork and Certification
Request More Information
Office of Graduate Affairs
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About Seton Hall
One of the country's leading Catholic Universities, Seton Hall University has been developing students in mind, heart and spirit since 1856.
Home to over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offering more than 90 undergraduate programs and over 130 graduate programs, Seton Hall's academic excellence has been singled out for distinction by The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report and Bloomberg Businessweek.
Seton Hall's 58-acre campus in the quaint town of South Orange, New Jersey, is only 14 miles from New York City — offering students a wealth of employment, internship, cultural and entertainment opportunities. The University’s nationally recognized School of Law is located in nearby Newark, New Jersey. The Interprofessional Health Sciences (IHS) campus in the owns of Clifton and Nutley, New Jersey, houses the University’s College of Nursing and School of Health and Medical Sciences.
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1856
Founded by James Roosevelt Bayley
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14
Miles from New York City
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90+
Career-Building Graduate Programs
