October 13, 2005

Last month, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation that authorizes the California State University to independently offer the doctor of education (Ed.D.). The new degree — the first authorization to independently award a doctorate since the system was formed nearly 50 years ago — will target K-12 and community college administrative leaders.

Previously, under California’s Master Plan for Higher Education, the CSU could only offer bachelor and master’s degrees, except for a limited number of doctorates via programs offered jointly with private universities or in partnership with the University of California. Just such a program — in educational administration and leadership — was offered by Cal State Fullerton in 2004.

“Workforce demands for doctoral training for administrative leaders at California’s public elementary and secondary schools, as well as community colleges, has far outstripped the state’s ability to provide them,” noted Ashley Bishop, dean of the College of Education.

“Allowing CSU campuses to offer this doctorate will build upon the system’s expertise and program strengths, and will facilitate increased career opportunities and better preparation for thousands of educators who will be ready to meet the educational needs of the state.”

The CSU has begun planning to offer the degree and expects the first class of students to begin studies at selected CSU campuses in fall 2007.

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