West Texas A&M University’s online doctoral program in educational leadership is one of the Top 10 most affordable programs in the nation, according to a private rankings website.

WT’s program ranked No. 7 on the list, ahead of such institutions as Valdosta State University, University of Arkansas and Texas Tech University, according to a list released June 7 by EduRef.net.

All schools considered in the rankings are regionally or nationally accredited, offer at least one fully online doctorate in education and were collected from official accrediting agency websites, according to EduRef.

“We are proud to be recognized for our philosophy that the cost of education should not become a barrier for those wishing to improve their careers,” said Dr. Eddie Henderson, dean of the College of Education and Social Sciences. “Our program’s unique, two-pronged focus equips school leaders with a wide variety of tools for success, not only for themselves but also for their districts or institutions.”

President Walter V. Wendler said the greatest potential strength of WT’s educational leadership doctoral program is its benefit for small schools.

“These districts are often overlooked by colleges and universities that are orientated towards urban and suburban districts,” Wendler said. “While many of the challenges that exist in various school districts are similarly based on student populations, several significant issues for small and large districts are different.”

WT’s Ed.D. program launched in Fall 2018 with two tracks — one preparing leaders for rural schools, another preparing leaders for higher education and educational organizations.

Currently, 67 students are enrolled in the program. Applications for the next cohort are due Oct. 1 for classes beginning in January 2022. The first Ed.D. degrees are expected to be awarded during the December commencement ceremony.

WT’s doctoral program is a key underpinning of the University’s long-term plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World.

-West Texas A&M University