In our program, students will
Develop the competencies needed to serve as a leader for inclusive excellence and organizational change.
Gain the leadership knowledge and skills needed to fill executive level positions and pursue innovative best practices in your DEI work and future career.
Be mentored by experienced senior diversity officers from across the nation.
A significant feature of the Graduate Certificate and new Ph.D. Specialization in Diversity Equity and Inclusion will be the opportunity to network and build mentoring relationships with senior diversity officers active in the field. Through partnerships with INSIGHT into Diversity Magazine, the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, and the UK College of Education’s Education and Civil Rights Initiative in collaboration with the NAACP, students will build a network of connections and mentored relationships to assure success in their careers.
The Studies in Higher Education PhD Specialization in Diversity Equity and Inclusion features the Senior Diversity Officer Leadership coursework as core curriculum and requires a separate application. Applications for the PhD Studies in Higher Education (SHED) program are due by October 1st for Spring and February 1st for Summer or Fall. Students can start any semester.
You will apply to our program through the University of Kentucky Graduate School.
Please note: GRE scores are not required for admission to any of EPE’s Degree Programs.
NOTE: Rolling Admission up to May 1st for Fall and up to November 1st for Spring.
Electives to build concentration or context (these are regularly offered courses):
EDL 701 Leadership in Educational Organizations (3).
A study of leadership with particular emphasis on understanding the nature, defining characteristics, responsibilities, contextual determinants, and importance of leadership within educational organizations. Prereq: Admission to Department program or consent of instructor.
EDL 702 Leadership for Organizational Learning (3).
This course examines theories associated with organizational learning and change processes that can be used by leaders of 21st century educational systems. Theories are then used to examine prevailing practices within organizations and to inform the development of action plans appropriate for improved organizational performance. Prereq: Admission to Department program or consent of instructor.
EDL 703 Leading Organizational Change (3).
This course focuses on understanding the field of organizational change as well as emphasizing the nature, characteristics, responsibilities, and contextual determinants that influence a leader’s role in changing educational organizations. Prereq: Admission to Department program or consent of instructor.
Course details can be viewed here.
Please note that federal financial aid is not available for certificate programs, but other financial resources may be available on the Financial Aid page.
College of Education
131 Taylor Education Building
(859) 257-1929
If you plan to complete a University of Kentucky online program while living outside of Kentucky, you should check the Out-of-State Students page to determine if the University of Kentucky is authorized to provide this program in your state of residence. If you plan to use the degree to seek licensure, you should also determine if the degree meets the educational requirements for licensure in your state.