University officials say the four-year doctoral program will be flexible and online.
SAN ANTONIO — Texas A&M University-San Antonio is looking at starting its first-ever doctoral program. The proposed Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership would begin in the fall of 2026.
The dean of the College of Education and Human Development, Dr. Emma Savage-Davis, said the school is making history and this program will have a positive impact on the south side of San Antonio.
“Isn’t that amazing? I believe it says we are seen. We are here. We are valued,” she said. “This is huge. This is life-changing and very impactful for our alumni and our community.”
The four-year program will be flexible and online. Savage-Davis said students will complete coursework over three years, followed by one year to complete their dissertation.
She said the proposed doctoral program will feature five specialized tracks: district level, bilingual education leadership, special education leadership, early childhood education leadership and a multidisciplinary leadership path.
“That’s the uniqueness of this program,” Savage-Davis said. “It’s different than any other program in this area. It is unique to build leaders in all facets of what they are interested in.”
Savage-Davis also emphasized the program could help address staffing shortages in certain fields in the education sector. Bottom line, she said launching this program will have a major impact.
“We are saying we are in the community and we not only want to change their lives but change the lives of future students and our community, one degree by one degree,” she said.
The university is awaiting approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Savage-Davis said they have already received interest in the program.