San Antonio, Texas -- Texas A&M University-San Antonio is enhancing its capacity to cultivate highly skilled professionals for the workforce by introducing its first-ever doctoral program. Beginning in fall 2026, students will be able to earn a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership. This new program signifies a pivotal moment for the University, as it equips graduates to address educational disparities and meet the unique needs of school districts across the region and state.

"This innovative doctoral program prepares students for pivotal leadership roles in education,” said University President Salvador Hector Ochoa. "It reflects our commitment to community engagement and collaboration, aiming to enhance educational opportunities for all."

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved the program on July 24. Developed over the past several years, the curriculum adheres to national and state standards and was shaped in collaboration with community stakeholders, including representatives from South Bexar County school districts, to address the region's most pressing educational needs.

"This degree reframes leadership within the entire PK–12 spectrum," said Dr. Emma Savage-Davis, dean of the College of Education & Human Development. "From classroom educators to district leaders, the program will empower educators as catalysts for change by imparting the knowledge, vision, and skills needed to drive progress at every level."

Designed to be flexible yet rigorous, all courses will be delivered online, accommodating full-time educators and district professionals with evening or weekend classes. Students will also participate in in-person symposiums and collaborative events, gaining practical experience through partnerships with school superintendents.

The program offers specializations for leadership in early childhood education, special education, bilingual education, multidisciplinary approaches, and district-level leadership with the option of superintendent certification. Graduates will be prepared for leadership roles such as principals, superintendents, curriculum specialists, or instructional leaders. Applicants must hold a master’s degree to be eligible for admission.

As the first doctoral offering at A&M-San Antonio, this program directly aligns with the University’s efforts to become a university of choice in Texas and beyond.

About Texas A&M University-San Antonio

Texas A&M University-San Antonio is a comprehensive four-year public university that reflects the culturally diverse, heritage-rich community it serves. Situated on nearly 700 acres in South San Antonio, the University offers 39 undergraduate degrees and 23 graduate degrees to 8,000 students. A&M-San Antonio is home to the Henry G. Cisneros Institute for Emerging Leaders, the Cyber Engineering Technology/Cyber Security Research Center, and the Mays Center for Experiential Learning and Community Engagement. The University holds the Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation with a student population that is approximately 65 percent Hispanic, and 67 percent are the first in their families to attend college. A&M-San Antonio is a military-embracing institution; the University was awarded the 2024 Gold Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA) from the Texas Veterans Commission. Visit tamusa.edu for more information. #onamission