The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program at the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies is the fourth-ranked doctoral degree program in the nation in 2025, according to recently released ratings by EdDPrograms.org. UCLA’s program is ranked No. 1 among public institutions.
The EdDPrograms rankings are based on a review and analysis of data on Ed.D. programs at nearly 400 schools across the nation. Only 5% are recognized for excellence. The 25 finalists include some of the most prestigious universities in the country — schools that combine academic rigor with strong completion rates, outstanding reputations, and measurable post-graduation success.
The Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) at UCLA is provided through the Education Leadership Program (ELP) in the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies. The ELP is committed to promoting innovative and change-oriented educational leaders. Bringing together mid-career working professionals from across a range of education and community settings, each year, a new cohort of students engages in an in-depth exploration of educational research and issues to build and broaden their knowledge and deepen their impact in the field. Participants pursue individual research projects to fulfill dissertation requirements. Building on the public service mission of UCLA and the social justice vision of the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies, the program combines a commitment to urban leadership development and the creation of equitable and accessible PreK-16 opportunities with student-focused teaching and learning centered around racial equity and cultural competence.
“Our Educational Leadership Program reflects a diverse and talented pool of scholars and leaders from across education, non-profit and community organizations. We engage them in deep exploration of critical issues confronting our schools, communities and the students we serve,” said Lori Patton Davis, Heyman Endowed Chair and Professor of Education and the Faculty Director of the UCLA Educational Leadership Program.
“We challenge our students using a rigorous curriculum grounded in research and expertise and committed to the values of equity and social justice to prepare them for careers with real and meaningful impact in diverse educational settings. It is a program of proven excellence, and we are pleased to be noted in these rankings.”
EdDPrograms.org is a comprehensive resource for prospective EdD students, offering a free, nationwide directory of education doctorate programs along with guidance from higher education experts. The complete list of rankings and research methodology can be found at: https://www.eddprograms.org/schools/best-doctor-of-education-programs/#to