EdD in Educational Studies, Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA)
The EdD in Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) prepares working professionals for leadership roles in a variety of higher education contexts. The HESA EdD combines a rigorous academic experience with an intentional focus on the practical application of scholarship. The program develops scholar-practitioners who understand the importance of equity and social justice and can respond effectively to the problems and issues of contemporary practice in higher education.
Program Features
Comprehend and apply foundational and contemporary theories to scholarly questions and issues in the field of higher education and student affairs (Theoretical Foundations)
Evaluate and understand various research approaches and answer critical questions in postsecondary education. Graduates can apply research methodologies to the analysis of empirical data and evaluation to facilitate change in higher education contexts (Assessment, Research and Evaluation)
Understand and appreciate equity and inclusion and apply principles of equity and inclusion in professional practice (Equity and Inclusion)
Translate theories into effective educational practice and elevate your role as a scholar-practitioner contributing to the improvement of professional practice (Translation and Professional Practice)
Career Paths
Other career possibilities include: Policy Analyst or Non-profit Leader
Program Highlights
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Designed for full-time working professionals
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Cohort-based model
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4 year program with option to accelerate to 3 years
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2 courses/semester year round
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Consulting site-based Dissertation in Practice
Degree Requirements
Prerequisites
Master's degree
Program start
Summer Semester
Deadline to apply
December 1
Minimum Program hours
84
(up to 30 credit hours can transfer from the Master’s degree)
Additional Application Requirements
Special Statement of Intent
- Identify a significant, contemporary issue facing student affairs and higher education.
- Describe why this issue is important to you as a higher education professional.
- Consider the potential underlying causes of the issue.
- Discuss the ways in which the HESA program will assist you in addressing this issue.
EdD Information Sessions
To learn more, please attend the session.
Questions about our program? Make an appointment to learn more.
HESA Ed.D. Program Information Session (Virtual)
September 12, 2025
Noon-1 p.m.
Virtual Format
Registration Link
Registration link: https://osu.zoom.us/meeting/register/fU3205E2Q2ilveb3zPvZ8Q
Hosted by the Department of Educational Studies, the virtual information session provides an opportunity for prospective students to learn more about the HESA Ed.D. program.
HESA Ed.D. Program Information Session (Virtual)
October 6, 2025
Noon-1 p.m.
Virtual Format
Registration Link: https://osu.zoom.us/meeting/register/xHA7gPhRQTudI4H73WdkHg
Hosted by the Department of Educational Studies, the virtual information session provides an opportunity for prospective students to learn more about the HESA Ed.D. program.
HESA Ed.D. Program Information Session (In-Person)
October 28, 2025
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Ramseyer Hall Room 200 (29 Woodruff Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43210)
Registration Link: https://osu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1STcjshn7bgX7me
Hosted by the Department of Educational Studies, the virtual information session provides an opportunity for prospective students to learn more about the HESA Ed.D. program.
Apply to Ohio State
Application checklist