Doctorate students sit around a square of tables having a discussion.

Weaving theory with real-life application

Doctorate in Leadership with a Concentration in Music Education

Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Learning with a Concentration in Music Education

The Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Learning is a distinctive program that prides itself on turning theory into practical application. In this program you will be immersed in the reflective practice of leadership with your fellow cohort members and can apply everything you learn—from academic research findings to brainstorms with classmates—to your organization's critical issues and challenging situations.

Curriculum Overview

Coursework

The Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Learning is built on four areas of coursework: core, research, collateral and dissertation. Courses focus on the ideas and issues central to leadership over a three-year period, and students attend core courses with their cohort. Students may concurrently take collateral and research courses, which are offered one evening a week and include online components.

Credits

The Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Learning degree consists of 66 total credits that encompass core courses, research, electives and dissertation.

View more information on the School of Education Website.

Faculty

Our faculty brings their vast experience as music educators, conductors and leaders to every course they offer. They will challenge you to think about your work in new and exciting ways!

Dr. Karen Howard

Dr. Karen Howard is a Professor of Music at the University of St. Thomas teaching music education methods, core graduate courses, world music pedagogy, and advising masters theses. In addition to her university schedule, Dr. Howard is a national and international clinician specializing in children’s music culture, ethnomusicology, creative and folk-dance traditions, early childhood music education, assessment, and curriculum development.

Dr. Karen Howard

Dr. Sarah Schmalenberger

Dr. Schmalenberger, musicologist and hornist, teaches music history courses for both undergraduate and graduate programs in music. An active freelancer in orchestral and chamber music, she especially enjoys chamber music and improvisation. She is the director and hornist in the all-female Swing Sisterhood Big Band.

Dr. Sarah Schmalenberger