Faculty and Students

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Administration & Policy (ADPO) Doctoral Concentration

The Administration & Policy (ADPO) concentration is for practicing K-12 education administrators or experienced teacher-leaders seeking a selective program, a challenging growth experience, and a respected doctorate.

The ADPO concentration's primary focus is on administration and leadership, although we accept applicants who are experienced teachers in leadership roles, with documented accomplishments, and a professional trajectory continuing in leadership and administration.

The ADPO curriculum—seminar courses, field-based learning, and leadership portfolio development—reflects two interconnected themes:

Intellectual Leadership

  • critical thinking
  • disciplined inquiry
  • ethical decision-making
  • effective oral and written communications

Organizational Management

  • work with and motivate others toward a vision of organizational excellence
  • manage the instructional program and maintain high academic standards
  • cultivate and sustain a positive organizational culture
  • build strong relationships with diverse constituencies and work effectively with stakeholders
  • manage efficiently school and district schedules, staff time, facilities, and financial resources

For additional information on major domains of the ADPO curriculum and curriculum goals see ISSLC Standards.


  • School of Education  •   Willard Hall Education Building  •   Newark, DE 19716  •   USA
    Undergraduate phone: 302-831-8491  •  Fax: 302-831-4110  •   E-mail: hecksher@udel.edu
    Graduate phone: 302-831-1165  •  Fax: 302-831-4421  •   E-mail: dhannah@udel.edu
    Director's Office: 302-831-3178  •  Fax: 302-831-6039  •   E-mail: levering@udel.edu