Henderson trustees approve second doctoral program

ARKADELPHIA — Henderson State University’s Board of Trustees approved on Friday plans to offer a doctor of education in instructional leadership through its Teachers College.

The new degree will be an extension of two educational specialist degrees already in place. Graduates from both specialist degrees, curriculum leadership and district level leadership, are candidates for the doctoral program.

Individuals completing the educational specialist degree will already have 30 of the 64 hours required for the doctoral program.

“The academic community at Henderson State is excited and pleased to have the Board of Trustees approve the doctor of education in instructional leadership,” said Steve Adkison, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Through this program, the university will enhance its contribution to the demand for highly skilled and educated school leaders.”

The doctor of education in instructional leadership will enable graduates to extend their knowledge of how to plan systemic reform and manage change processes with all stakeholders in a K-12 educational setting by blending practical application with educational research.

“The mission of Henderson State University is to provide a learning environment that prepares students for a lifetime of intellectual and personal growth in a global society,” said Kenneth Taylor, vice provost and dean of Graduate School. “The doctor of education in instructional leadership supports this mission in many different ways.”

Henderson will now present the program to the Arkansas Department of Higher Education, the ADHE Coordinating Board and the Higher Learning Commission for consideration and approval.

Last month, Henderson trustees approved plans for a doctor of nursing practice degree and a master of science in nursing degree.