Meeting the Needs of Students, Communities and Industries

The world of learning is changing — fast. From emerging technologies to shifting student expectations and labor market demands, today’s leaders must be agile, visionary and prepared to drive real change.

At UCF’s Department of Educational Leadership and Higher Education, we’re preparing visionary leaders who can do exactly that. Our programs empower you with the tools, insights and credentials to meet the evolving needs of schools, colleges and industries — and to ensure your learners thrive in the process.

Here, you’ll learn from faculty who are more than accomplished scholars. They’re deeply experienced practitioners, who have worked as former superintendents, deans, workforce strategists and policy experts. Their research tackles both evergreen and emerging issues, ranging from student success and workforce readiness to how to effectively and ethically use generative AI in the classroom. They’ll ensure you won’t just learn about change — you’ll help shape it.

Through close partnerships with school districts, universities, government agencies and industries across the region, state and nation, you’ll also gain immersive experience solving problems that matter.

So whether your path is K–12 leadership, higher education innovation or workforce development, this is where your future begins — and where we move forward the future of learning, together.

Research Areas

Learning Solutions Where They’re Needed Most

In UCF’s Department of Educational Leadership and Higher Education, research isn’t done in isolation — it’s driven by real-world challenges and designed for real-world impact. Our faculty focus on evidence-based practices that improve outcomes across schools, colleges, workplaces and communities. From strengthening the next generation of leaders and promoting student success to understanding how emerging technologies like AI are reshaping teaching and learning, our work is grounded in meaningful partnerships. We collaborate with school districts, colleges, workforce organizations, students, families and community stakeholders to ensure our research is practical and aligned with the evolving needs of today’s learners and educators.

Partnerships

Together, We’re Shaping Stronger Schools, Colleges and Workforces

At UCF, we believe learning should be as dynamic and impactful as the communities we serve. That’s why our programs are grounded in strong, intentional partnerships with school districts and colleges across Central Florida and beyond.

These collaborations give our students real-world experience — from leading professional development in local schools to supporting student success initiatives in higher education and designing training programs that respond to industry needs.
For students, these partnerships build confidence, sharpen leadership skills and provide real-world experience. For our partners, they provide access to a pipeline of prepared, passionate professionals ready to lead, innovate and drive positive change.

Together, we’re not only preparing future leaders — we’re shaping the future of education.

Partners

Daytona State College
Florida A&M University
Lake County Public Schools
Orange County Public Schools
Rutgers University
Seminole County Public Schools
Valencia College

Student Research

Research That Moves You — and the World — Forward

When you engage in research, you’re not just answering questions. You’re uncovering insights and data-informed findings that shape policy, improve systems and open new possibilities for how we learn best.

For students, research is a powerful tool for discovery — of both the world and yourself. It sharpens your ability to ask meaningful questions, analyze complex data and solve real problems with creativity and clarity. Whether you’re addressing teacher shortages in rural communities, student retention strategies in higher ed or innovations in adult learning, your work contributes to a broader conversation with real-world impact.

Most importantly, research sets you apart. It positions you as a thought leader in your field, prepares you for leadership roles, and connects you with mentors and networks that can shape your career for years to come.

At UCF, you’ll learn how to find, analyze and interpret existing research and have the opportunity to conduct your own through research reports, directed independent projects and research assistantships.

Students presenting and sharing research

Advisory Board

At UCF, we believe the best way to prepare tomorrow’s learning leaders is to stay closely connected to those shaping the field today. That’s why our programs are guided by a dynamic advisory board made up of seasoned K-12, university and workforce development administrators.

This dynamic group brings deep, real-world expertise — from managing K–12 systems and navigating higher ed governance to leading institutional change. Their diverse perspectives help us keep our curriculum forward-thinking and future-ready, grounded in both current realities and evolving needs.

By bridging the gap between theory and practice, our advisory board ensures that students graduate with more than a degree. They leave with relevant insights, leadership strategies and the confidence to address the complex challenges facing schools and colleges today.

Simply put: their input shapes our programs — and strengthens yours.