COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
At USAHS, our Doctor of Education degree is tailored for healthcare practitioners and educators.
Advance your expertise through flexible online and hands-on learning, personalized study plans and modern learning technologies designed to improve engagement and outcomes in leadership and education. Customize your academic experience with multiple dissertation formats that align with your professional interests and career goals.
Take your career to the next level in academia, administration, or leadership and position yourself as a future leader in healthcare education.
Locations: Distance + in-person residencies
Format: Online + hands-on
Start Dates: Sept., Jan. & May start dates
Duration: 60 credit hours over 12 trimesters (4 years)*
*The program can be completed in as few as 3 years or less depending on individual progress, traditional vs. accelerated pathway, credits transferred, prior learning experience, and other factors. The average time to degree is 4 years for students who have graduated within the last 3 years (as of July 2025)*
PPOTD to EdD Bridge Program
For those who wish to teach in an occupational therapy academic program, we offer a bridge program from our Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PPOTD) program to our EdD degree. Most students may transfer 24–27 PPOTD credits to the EdD and complete the EdD faster.
Professional Certification Opportunities
The ImPACT® Trained Athletic Trainer (ITAT) certification is available for students who complete the Concussion in Sport course, part of the Athletic Trainer specialization.
Tuition Savings
USAHS supports your EdD journey with Special Tuition Grant savings.The grant is calculated and applied on a per-credit basis. The total grant amount assumes the completion of the full number of credits in the program. Any transfer or prior learning credits will reduce the amount of the grant awarded. This offer is not a guarantee that all candidates eligible for the offer will be granted acceptance or admission into USAHS. All prospective students will be subject to the same standard admission and registration process when applying to USAHS. The Grant is applicable to tuition only and does not apply toward books, materials, and other supplies or fees. This offer is only valid for eligible new students who enroll and start classes in the above programs at USAHS through 2026 only. Please refer to the Financial Aid webpage for additional information.
EdD: $17,500
Criteria
Available to all eligible students
No application is needed
The USAHS curriculum and IPE-focused coursework have benefited my current role. Despite my significantly busy personal and professional roles, the faculty and student success adviser have continued to encourage and support me throughout my time in the program
The EdD program at USAHS has strengthened my leadership skills, expanded my scholarly expertise and provided me with the tools to be more effective in my career.
My journey through the USAHS EdD program has helped me develop personally and professionally. I have transitioned from a mentee in my role as faculty to a leader. My colleagues look to me for advice and mentorship on educational pedagogy, curricular development, research and academic student advising. This leadership and expertise come directly from my experiences learning, reflecting, writing and collaborating with faculty and students in my EdD coursework at USAHS.
You may choose to follow the general program, or optionally earn one of the following specializations.
If you’re an experienced nurse interested in teaching in higher education, choose our concentration in Nurse Educator. This specialization includes four elective courses focused on practical theory and application within nursing education. It’s designed for experienced nursing professionals who seek to train the next generation of practitioners.
Athletic trainers who are currently in higher education, or who wish to pursue a teaching role, will find it helpful to study topics uniquely challenging to educators. This specialization includes timely and relevant topics such as cultural competency, evidenced-based injury treatment and other emerging fields of interest to the AT educator.
Through this specialization, you’ll have the chance to increase your expertise in teaching practices designed for today’s healthcare student. You can develop the skills you need to teach in a traditional or online classroom, develop curricula, and understand generational learning. Choose 12 credits from among six courses to earn the specialization.
In this specialization, you’ll prepare to lead departments and teams across academic and clinical settings. Courses focus on human resources, organizational leadership, and other subjects related to healthcare education administration. This specialization will support your current or future role as an academic department chair, a lead trainer within a health system, a human resources coordinator, and much more.
| Courses | Hours |
|---|---|
| Core Curriculum | |
IPE 7001 - Interprofessional Education and Collaborative PracticeThis course provides students with a foundation for interprofessional education and collaboration. Emphasis is on learning roles and responsibilities of healthcare peers, effective interprofessional communication, teams and teaming, as well as ethical practice and patient (or client)-centered care. All coursework prepares the student to engage on highly functioning healthcare teams, while striving to improve healthcare delivery through increasing patient and practitioner satisfaction, reducing costs, and achieving better outcomes. The course will expose the student to industry-relevant tools and techniques that meet the demands of the contemporary healthcare workplace. OR IPE 7001B - Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (B)This course provides students with a foundation for interprofessional education and collaboration. Emphasis is on learning roles and responsibilities of healthcare peers, effective interprofessional communication, teams and teaming, as well as ethical practice and patient (or client)-centered care. All coursework prepares the student to engage on highly functioning healthcare teams, while striving to improve healthcare delivery through increasing patient and practitioner satisfaction, reducing costs, and achieving better outcomes. The course will expose the student to industry-relevant tools and techniques that meet the demands of the contemporary healthcare workplace. | 3 |
EDF 7050 - Teaching Methods in Higher EducationThis online course engages learners to examine the basic concepts associated with teaching and learning within higher educational environments and methods to be an effective academic educator. This course focuses on educational theoretical underpinnings for teaching in an academic setting and experiential learning of the processes of instructional design, course development, and effective teaching and facilitation of learning in a higher education environment. Emphasis is placed on the application of knowledge to demonstrate mastery of content taking into consideration the needs of adult learners. This course discusses the fundamentals of teaching and is highly recommended for the new instructor, or instructors wishing to review theories and concepts related to teaching, learning, and assessment. OR EDF 7050B - Teaching Methods in Higher Education (B)This online course engages learners to examine the basic concepts associated with teaching and learning within higher educational environments and methods to be an effective academic educator. This course focuses on educational theoretical underpinnings for teaching in an academic setting and experiential learning of the processes of instructional design, course development, and effective teaching and facilitation of learning in a higher education environment. Emphasis is placed on the application of knowledge to demonstrate mastery of content taking into consideration the needs of adult learners. This course discusses the fundamentals of teaching and is highly recommended for the new instructor, or instructors wishing to review theories and concepts related to teaching, learning, and assessment.This is an Accelerated Learning Course. | 3 |
EDF 7111 - Research Methods IThe course includes an examination and critical evaluation of research processes, including the principles of applied and practical statistical analysis, descriptive statistical approaches, evaluation of research theory, and the various quantitative and qualitative research designs utilized in the health science fields with a special focus on educational research. | 3 |
EDF 7121 - Research Methods IIStudents examine research applications and methods with commonly used inferential and predictive statistical analysis and qualitative and quasi-experimental approaches. The course focuses on developing the authentic skills necessary for research practice in the health sciences and educational settings, including the skills necessary to publish and present research in peer-reviewed forums. | 3 |
EDF 7171 - Motivation Theory in Health Care EducationAn investigation and discussion of current and historically significant theories of motivation in educational research and how they can be utilized in various settings including the classroom, at work, and with patients/clients. | 3 |
EDF 7175 - Foundational Theories in EducationThis online course examines the theories of teaching and learning related to research and health science education. Selected learning theories are analyzed from the perspective of teaching and learning. Students are introduced to the various historical learning theories and research-based educational theories from the perspective of a modern-day learner. Strategies and ideas for the use of educational theories in learning are explored with emphasis on application in today's learning environments. OR EDF 7175B - Foundational Theories in Education (B)This online course examines the theories of teaching and learning related to research and health science education. Selected learning theories are analyzed from the perspective of teaching and learning. Students are introduced to the various historical learning theories and research-based educational theories from the perspective of a modern-day learner. Strategies and ideas for the use of educational theories in learning are explored with emphasis on application in today's learning environments.This is an Accelerated Learning Course. space | 3 |
EDF 7200 - Residency IThis course serves as an introduction to a variety of topics and occurs over one weekend on the St. Augustine, Florida, campus. The residency includes didactic classroom sessions with invited guest speakers as well as debates, presentations, and question and answer sessions. Students also have the opportunity to meet with faculty and to interact with other students. Written and interactive online assignments align with the topics presented during the residency and are expected to be completed within two to three days of the residency weekend. | 2 |
EDF 7225 - Residency IIThis course serves as an advanced presentation of topics that builds on Residency I. There are didactic classroom sessions with invited guest speakers. Students spend time focused on developing a dissertation topic, working with advisors, and completing final preparations for beginning their dissertation work. There are interactive and online assignments to align with their topics. Students are asked to make a teaching presentation and are evaluated by peers and faculty during this time. The focus of this residency is moving the student from coursework to the more independent work required in the latter portion of the curriculum. | 2 |
EDF 7325 - Dissertation Research PreparationFocus is on the successful passage of the written comprehensive examination, certification in research ethics and human subjects' protection, formation of the dissertation committee, and approval of the dissertation topic to move forward in the dissertation process. | 4 |
EDF 7871 - Dissertation IThis course is designed to help students complete the first three chapters of their dissertation manuscript. There are three primary expectations in this course: (1) complete the literature review, (2) complete the methods section for Chapter 3, (3) file and secure Institutional Review Board permission, and (4) put the manuscript into proper dissertation format. | 4 |
EDF 7872 - Dissertation IIIn the Doctor of Education program, students have three terms in which the milestones for Dissertation I, II, and III are expected to be completed. Students are required to take a minimum of 12 dissertation credits until completion of the dissertation. This component of the program requires students to work independently on a research study or project, with weekly communication and close collaboration with the student's dissertation chair and committee members. Dissertation requirements, product type, and details are outlined in the Dissertation Handbook. Successful completion of the dissertation culminates in an oral defense of the product. | 4 |
EDF 7873 - Dissertation IIIIn the Doctor of Education program, students have three terms in which the milestones for Dissertation I, II, and III are expected to be completed. Students are required to take a minimum of 12 dissertation credits until completion of the dissertation. This component of the program requires students to work independently on a research study or project, with weekly communication and close collaboration with the student's dissertation chair and committee members. Dissertation requirements, product type, and details are outlined in the Dissertation Handbook. Successful completion of the disseration culminates in an oral defense of the product. | 4 |
| Core Credit Hours 38 | |
| Degree Credit Hours 60 | |
Students choose 22 elective credit hours to complete the 60-credit-hour EdD program. Students may take 12 credit hours in their chosen specialization plus choose 10 credit hours from the general electives or any specialization track or choose all 22 elective credit hours from any course in the general electives and specialization tracks.
| Courses | Hours |
|---|---|
| General Electives Curriculum | |
ATP 7050 - Cultural CompetencyThis course introduces participants to population demographics and their impact on cultural influence with regard to health care. Course content emphasizes cultural awareness and cultural competence, discussing methods of inclusion and appropriate intervention. | 3 |
ATP 7100 - Advanced Topics: Ethics in Health CareA practical approach toward contemporary ethical and legal issues surrounding allied health care professions. Ethical content includes exploring the challenges associated with patient privacy and confidentiality, patient discharge readiness (e.g., return to play), and professional behaviors that relate to unethical decisions. Principles of ethics will be defined and realistic solutions will be discussed. Understanding the areas of greatest risk, minimizing such risk, and gaining the knowledge required to prepare for ethical or legal circumstances will be discussed. | 3 |
ATP 7130 - Evidence Based Injury PreventionThis course highlights the importance of injury prevention from a scientific perspective. Research supporting the evidence of an intervention, effective implementation, cost analysis, and outcomes effectiveness will be discussed. Basic and advanced principles of assessing research are presented. | 3 |
ATP 7255 - Concussion in SportA contemporary approach to understanding the prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation of sport concussions. This course examines position statements, various methods of neurocognitive testing, legal cases regarding sport concussions, and individual state laws. | 3 |
ATP 7280 - Psychosocial Strategies for Patient CareThe innovative course explores the historical evidence surrounding holistic patient care across the allied health care professions. Psychosocial characteristics of effective clinicians are identified and patient education tools for use across clinical settings are presented. Critical examination of contemporary literature serves as the foundation for implementation. | 3 |
COM 7130 - Healthcare Communication and CollaborationIn this online course, students will develop the understanding and competency to deal with common communication issues in the healthcare professions, including cultural differences, interdisciplinary collaboration, professional and clinical documentation, case presentations, social media presence, and successful project management. This course will focus on effective writing, speaking, and conflict management skills. These abilities determine professional credibility and impact patient outcomes. | 3 |
EDF 7013 - Practical Application of Online TeachingLearners gain an understanding of the tenets of online and blended learning theory and principles in adult learning. Course design and methodology are used in applying teaching theories utilized in the creation of engaging online learning activities for the health science learner. Learners gain proficiency in outlining and developing key content areas within the online classroom through planning and practice while paying attention to the importance of formative and summative feedback. | 3 |
EDF 7161 - Program and Curricular Design for Health Science EducationThe focus of this course is a systematic approach to program planning design. This course examines program planning models such as Interactive Model of Program Design. Learners investigate and learn about constructing program outcomes, learning objectives, transfer of learning, program structure, program evaluation, budgeting, and marketing. | 3 |
EDF 7181 - Technology in Higher EducationIt is important for educators to evaluate the dynamic and strategic application of technology in education to enhance teaching and learning practices and influence higher education institutions. This course will provide the student with an understanding of learning models, the influence of technology on the learning process, and the body of literature that informs the utilization of technology in higher education. The primary focus will be the application of teaching and learning strategies that integrate technology as a method or tool to enrich the educational process. Using technology tools for solving a variety of problems, teaching presentation, evaluating student performance, and implementing distance learning systems will also be explored. This course will help students develop the skills necessary to be a change agent to enhance the use of educational technology in higher education institutions. | 3 |
EDF 7235 - Ethical Principles in HealthcareThis course provides a comprehensive perspective on ethical issues in nursing and healthcare education and clinical practice. It takes a practical approach toward contemporary ethical issues surrounding healthcare professions and emphasizes an interprofessional appreciation of ethical decision-making. Ethical principles, theory and decision-making models will provide the foundation for ethical case analysis and other critical thinking activities. Principles and constructs such as morality, goals of professional practice, professional and organizational values, and socio-cultural contexts of a health care will be defined, and realistic solutions will be discussed with discipline specific emphasis to create an interprofessional culture. Understanding the ethical-legal relationship in areas of greatest risk, minimizing such risk, and gaining the knowledge required to prepare for the circumstances will be discussed. | 3 |
EDF 7250 - Teaching InternshipStudents in the EdD program will be required to participate in a teaching internship that may be arranged in a variety of differing formats. Students may teach a continuing education course, an online course, or a course for academic credit along with a mentor who will work closely in the development of course materials, content, and presentation. Teaching may be done in a traditional face-to-face environment or as part of an online delivery method. | Variable |
EDF 7260 - Assessment and Evaluation in Health Professions EducationStudents will learn evaluation methods used in health professions education curriculum. Content includes developing skills to create valid and reliable assessments of student learning using norm referenced and criterion referenced evaluation methods. A variety of classroom assessments will be explored as well as basic psychometric statistics; grading; communicating assessment information; testing ethics; and the use of assessments and evaluations in educational policy decisions. Students will explore assessments used for the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains and current issues and research related to alternatives to standardized evaluation methods, and outcome measurement in education. | 3 |
EDF 7320 - Leadership Development for Advancing the Future of Nursing EducationThis course will provide a unique opportunity for participants to explore or create leadership opportunities within nursing education programs. Learners will consider a variety of leadership theories and practices to formulate a leadership philosophy, identify personal strengths and areas for improvement, and develop a plan for professional growth and career advancement. Skills acquired in the course will equip aspiring leaders with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to promote the profession of nursing, advance the future of nursing education, and empower prospective graduates of nursing programs. | 3 |
EDF 7323 - Contemporary Issues in Nursing EducationThis course provides an overview of the history, trends and current landscapes in nursing education. It focuses on the identification and analysis of issues, innovations, global trends, and policies of importance and influence in contemporary nursing education. Topics will include the different types and characteristics of public, private, and for-profit colleges and universities with their variety of entries into nursing practice. Topics include key stakeholders; changing student demographics; student retention; faculty and leadership development; accountability and accreditation; life-long learning; and technology and distance learning. | 3 |
EDF 7455 - Special Topics in Healthcare EducationThe Special Topics course encourages students to engage in a guided independent study of the following topics: integrating education theory and application to teaching and learning in any clinical, educational, or corporate setting; professional topics and skills; and emerging practice questions. Learning experiences may be in the form of guided readings and discussion, directed projects, seminars, or community/clinical experiences with a focus on advanced supplemental or exploratory learning in teaching and learning. Specific topics and formats vary as they are generated by student interest and faculty expertise. | 1-6 |
HSA 7200 - Foundations of Healthcare AdministrationStudents investigate and analyze the changing landscape of the healthcare environment and the factors affecting the practice of healthcare administration. Students consider stakeholders in a variety of settings to establish a framework for scholarly investigation of effective strategies for healthcare administrators in practice. Particular emphasis will include the importance of collaboration, critical thinking, communication, and diversity. The course introduces students to techniques applied by successful healthcare administrators, such as setting goals and managing time, as well as the attitudes and motivation required for success as a healthcare manager, administrator, and leader. OR HSA 7200B - Foundations of Healthcare Administration (B)Students investigate and analyze the changing landscape of the healthcare environment and the factors affecting the practice of healthcare administration. Students consider stakeholders in a variety of settings to establish a framework for scholarly investigation of effective strategies for healthcare administrators in practice. Particular emphasis will include the importance of collaboration, critical thinking, communication, and diversity. The course introduces students to techniques applied by successful healthcare administrators, such as setting goals and managing time, as well as the attitudes and motivation required for success as a healthcare manager, administrator, and leader.This is an Accelerated Learning Course. | 3 |
HSA 7236 - Accounting, Finance and Economics for the Healthcare LeaderThis course provides basic accounting, finance, and economics for the healthcare leader. Students will be able to educate patient care team members on financial implications of patient care decisions, use financial statements for decision making, use basic accounting, finance, and economics concepts needed for efficient management of the healthcare organization, develop policies and procedures for coding and reimbursement, and negotiate contracts for effectiveness and compliance. | 3 |
HSA 7250 - Human Resources Management and Organizational Development in HealthcareUsing a systematic approach, students address the role of human resources in healthcare organizations. Students gain an understanding of key roles in planning for workforce needs and aligning with the strategic goals of the organization. Students examine organizational behavior and dynamics, as well as leadership principles to help navigate change. Students analyze theory and practice of managing individuals and groups through motivation, communication, teamwork, collaboration, leadership, organizational change, negotiation, and conflict management and resolution. | 3 |
HSA 7260 - Operations and Quality Management in HealthcareThere are many opportunities for healthcare organizations and/or their unitary departments to employ strategies to affect the challenges and enhance the outcomes found in today's healthcare delivery system. This course familiarizes the student to a framework of various concepts and tools necessary for understanding the operationalization of health service delivery processes and their effect on performance outcomes. The development of leadership performance competencies that support interprofessional collaboration in organizational health care delivery systems, process improvement, and project and quality management will be emphasized. Through clinical and service quality planning, control and improvement initiatives, outcomes will demonstrate that quality improvement is a strategic mandate Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations. OR HSA 7260B - Operations and Quality Management in Healthcare (B)There are many opportunities for healthcare organizations and/or their unitary departments to employ strategies to affect the challenges and enhance the outcomes found in today's healthcare delivery system. This course familiarizes the student to a framework of various concepts and tools necessary for understanding the operationalization of health service delivery processes and their effect on performance outcomes. The development of leadership performance competencies that support interprofessional collaboration in organizational health care delivery systems, process improvement, and project and quality management will be emphasized. Through clinical and service quality planning, control and improvement initiatives, outcomes will demonstrate that quality improvement is a strategic mandate Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations.This is an Accelerated Learning Course. | 3 |
HSC 7200 - Information Literacy for Evidence-Based PracticeInformation literacy is an important skill for evidence-based practice. It incorporates such skills as recognizing when information is needed, searching for information (including developing a research question and creating a search strategy), incorporating new information into an already established knowledge base, and using information ethically and legally. Multiple studies show that one of the most prominent barriers to evidence-based practice among clinicians is limited search skills combined with difficulty accessing evidence. This course helps students to develop the information literacy skills they need to incorporate evidence into their practices. The course also teaches students how to use the online resources available through the University library and helps clinicians identify what information resources beyond the University's library are available to them. | 1 |
IPE 7121 - Organizational Leadership & Policy in Health CareThis course introduces students to interprofessional healthcare policy and organizational leadership concepts. Students have the opportunity to analyze and advocate for health policy with the inclusion of diverse stakeholders to optimize access to care, improve care coordination, and reduce disparities affecting population health. Various leadership styles are examined as well as self-assessment, goal setting, and strategies for continuous improvement as healthcare leaders. | 3 |
IPE 7121B - Organizational Leadership & Policy in Health Care (B)This course introduces students to various concepts and tools necessary for understanding operationalization of health service delivery and the effect on performance outcomes, including leadership competencies that support interprofessional collaboration, process improvement, health policy and regulation, and project and quality management. Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and develop metrics for monitoring daily operations within their field. | 3 |
IPE 7133 - Foundations in Healthcare Administration with Strategic PlanningStudents build on leadership concepts introduced in IPE 7121 to develop a foundational understanding of healthcare administration while analyzing the changing landscape of the healthcare environment. Application of these concepts occurs through formulating, implementing, and evaluating a strategic plan while working with an interprofessional team. Students examine the role of strategic planning in achieving organizational performance measures as well as the notion of planning as a cyclical process within the healthcare organization in the role of a healthcare administrator. | 3 |
IPE 7200 - Cultural Competence in HealthcareThis course introduces participants to population demographics and their impact on cultural influence with regard to health care and wellness. Emphasis is placed on cultural awareness and cultural competence, discussing methods of inclusion and appropriate intervention using an interprofessional model. OR IPE 7200B - Cultural Competence in Healthcare (B)This course introduces participants to population demographics and their impact on cultural influence with regard to health care and wellness. Emphasis is placed on cultural awareness and cultural competence, discussing methods of inclusion and appropriate intervention using an interprofessional model.This is an Accelerated Learning Course. | 3 |
IPE 7255 - Evidence-based Concussion ManagementA contemporary approach to understanding the prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation of concussion injury. This course examines concussion position statements, methods of neurocognitive assessment and evaluation, case examples, and individual state laws. This course presents an interprofessional team approach to concussion management. | 3 |
| Elective Credit Hours 10-22 | |
| Degree Credit Hours 60 | |
Students choose 12 credit hours in the specialization plus 10 credit hours from any course in the general electives and specialization tracks.
| Courses | Hours |
|---|---|
| Specialization Curriculum | |
EDF 7235 - Ethical Principles in HealthcareThis course provides a comprehensive perspective on ethical issues in nursing and healthcare education and clinical practice. It takes a practical approach toward contemporary ethical issues surrounding healthcare professions and emphasizes an interprofessional appreciation of ethical decision-making. Ethical principles, theory and decision-making models will provide the foundation for ethical case analysis and other critical thinking activities. Principles and constructs such as morality, goals of professional practice, professional and organizational values, and socio-cultural contexts of a health care will be defined, and realistic solutions will be discussed with discipline specific emphasis to create an interprofessional culture. Understanding the ethical-legal relationship in areas of greatest risk, minimizing such risk, and gaining the knowledge required to prepare for the circumstances will be discussed. | 3 |
EDF 7260 - Assessment and Evaluation in Health Professions EducationStudents will learn evaluation methods used in health professions education curriculum. Content includes developing skills to create valid and reliable assessments of student learning using norm referenced and criterion referenced evaluation methods. A variety of classroom assessments will be explored as well as basic psychometric statistics; grading; communicating assessment information; testing ethics; and the use of assessments and evaluations in educational policy decisions. Students will explore assessments used for the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains and current issues and research related to alternatives to standardized evaluation methods, and outcome measurement in education. | 3 |
EDF 7320 - Leadership Development for Advancing the Future of Nursing EducationThis course will provide a unique opportunity for participants to explore or create leadership opportunities within nursing education programs. Learners will consider a variety of leadership theories and practices to formulate a leadership philosophy, identify personal strengths and areas for improvement, and develop a plan for professional growth and career advancement. Skills acquired in the course will equip aspiring leaders with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to promote the profession of nursing, advance the future of nursing education, and empower prospective graduates of nursing programs. | 3 |
EDF 7323 - Contemporary Issues in Nursing EducationThis course provides an overview of the history, trends and current landscapes in nursing education. It focuses on the identification and analysis of issues, innovations, global trends, and policies of importance and influence in contemporary nursing education. Topics will include the different types and characteristics of public, private, and for-profit colleges and universities with their variety of entries into nursing practice. Topics include key stakeholders; changing student demographics; student retention; faculty and leadership development; accountability and accreditation; life-long learning; and technology and distance learning. | 3 |
| Specialization Credit Hours 12 | |
| Degree Credit Hours 60 | |
Students choose 12 credit hours in the specialization plus 10 credit hours from any course in the general electives and specialization tracks.
| Courses | Hours |
|---|---|
| Specialization Curriculum | |
ATP 7050 - Cultural CompetencyThis course introduces participants to population demographics and their impact on cultural influence with regard to health care. Course content emphasizes cultural awareness and cultural competence, discussing methods of inclusion and appropriate intervention. | 3 |
ATP 7130 - Evidence Based Injury PreventionThis course highlights the importance of injury prevention from a scientific perspective. Research supporting the evidence of an intervention, effective implementation, cost analysis, and outcomes effectiveness will be discussed. Basic and advanced principles of assessing research are presented. | 3 |
ATP 7100 - Advanced Topics: Ethics in Health CareA practical approach toward contemporary ethical and legal issues surrounding allied health care professions. Ethical content includes exploring the challenges associated with patient privacy and confidentiality, patient discharge readiness (e.g., return to play), and professional behaviors that relate to unethical decisions. Principles of ethics will be defined and realistic solutions will be discussed. Understanding the areas of greatest risk, minimizing such risk, and gaining the knowledge required to prepare for ethical or legal circumstances will be discussed. | 3 |
ATP 7255 - Concussion in SportA contemporary approach to understanding the prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation of sport concussions. This course examines position statements, various methods of neurocognitive testing, legal cases regarding sport concussions, and individual state laws. Students earn the ImPACT® Trained Athletic Trainers (ITAT) certification and 3.0 continuing education units (CEUs). | 3 |
ATP 7280 - Psychosocial Strategies for Patient CareThe innovative course explores the historical evidence surrounding holistic patient care across the allied health care professions. Psychosocial characteristics of effective clinicians are identified and patient education tools for use across clinical settings are presented. Critical examination of contemporary literature serves as the foundation for implementation. | 3 |
| Specialization Credit Hours 12 | |
| Degree Credit Hours 60 | |
Students choose 12 credit hours in the specialization plus 10 credit hours from any course in the general electives and specialization tracks.
| Courses | Hours |
|---|---|
| Specialization Curriculum | |
EDF 7013 - Practical Application of Online TeachingLearners gain an understanding of the tenets of online and blended learning theory and principles in adult learning. Course design and methodology are used in applying teaching theories utilized in the creation of engaging online learning activities for the health science learner. Learners gain proficiency in outlining and developing key content areas within the online classroom through planning and practice while paying attention to the importance of formative and summative feedback. | 3 |
EDF 7161 - Program and Curricular Design for Health Science EducationThe focus of this course is a systematic approach to program planning design. This course examines program planning models such as Interactive Model of Program Design. Learners investigate and learn about constructing program outcomes, learning objectives, transfer of learning, program structure, program evaluation, budgeting, and marketing. | 3 |
EDF 7181 - Technology in Higher EducationIt is important for educators to evaluate the dynamic and strategic application of technology in education to enhance teaching and learning practices and influence higher education institutions. This course will provide the student with an understanding of learning models, the influence of technology on the learning process, and the body of literature that informs the utilization of technology in higher education. The primary focus will be the application of teaching and learning strategies that integrate technology as a method or tool to enrich the educational process. Using technology tools for solving a variety of problems, teaching presentation, evaluating student performance, and implementing distance learning systems will also be explored. This course will help students develop the skills necessary to be a change agent to enhance the use of educational technology in higher education institutions. | 3 |
EDF 7250 - Teaching InternshipStudents in the EdD program will be required to participate in a teaching internship that may be arranged in a variety of differing formats. Students may teach a continuing education course, an online course, or a course for academic credit along with a mentor who will work closely in the development of course materials, content, and presentation. Teaching may be done in a traditional face-to-face environment or as part of an online delivery method. | Variable |
EDF 7260 - Assessment and Evaluation in Health Professions EducationStudents will learn evaluation methods used in health professions education curriculum. Content includes developing skills to create valid and reliable assessments of student learning using norm referenced and criterion referenced evaluation methods. A variety of classroom assessments will be explored as well as basic psychometric statistics; grading; communicating assessment information; testing ethics; and the use of assessments and evaluations in educational policy decisions. Students will explore assessments used for the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains and current issues and research related to alternatives to standardized evaluation methods, and outcome measurement in education. | 3 |
EDF 7455 - Special Topics in Healthcare EducationThe Special Topics course encourages students to engage in a guided independent study of the following topics: integrating education theory and application to teaching and learning in any clinical, educational, or corporate setting; professional topics and skills; and emerging practice questions. Learning experiences may be in the form of guided readings and discussion, directed projects, seminars, or community/clinical experiences with a focus on advanced supplemental or exploratory learning in teaching and learning. Specific topics and formats vary as they are generated by student interest and faculty expertise. | 1-6 |
| Specialization Credit Hours 12 | |
| Degree Credit Hours 60 | |
Students choose 12 credit hours in the specialization plus 10 credit hours from any course in the general electives and specialization tracks.
| Courses | Hours |
|---|---|
| Specialization Curriculum | |
HSA 7200 - Foundations of Healthcare AdministrationStudents investigate and analyze the changing landscape of the healthcare environment and the factors affecting the practice of healthcare administration. Students consider stakeholders in a variety of settings to establish a framework for scholarly investigation of effective strategies for healthcare administrators in practice. Particular emphasis will include the importance of collaboration, critical thinking, communication, and diversity. The course introduces students to techniques applied by successful healthcare administrators, such as setting goals and managing time, as well as the attitudes and motivation required for success as a healthcare manager, administrator, and leader. OR HSA 7200B - Foundations of Healthcare Administration (B)Students investigate and analyze the changing landscape of the healthcare environment and the factors affecting the practice of healthcare administration. Students consider stakeholders in a variety of settings to establish a framework for scholarly investigation of effective strategies for healthcare administrators in practice. Particular emphasis will include the importance of collaboration, critical thinking, communication, and diversity. The course introduces students to techniques applied by successful healthcare administrators, such as setting goals and managing time, as well as the attitudes and motivation required for success as a healthcare manager, administrator, and leader.This is an Accelerated Learning Course. | 3 |
HSA 7250 - Human Resources Management and Organizational Development in HealthcareUsing a systematic approach, students address the role of human resources in healthcare organizations. Students gain an understanding of key roles in planning for workforce needs and aligning with the strategic goals of the organization. Students examine organizational behavior and dynamics, as well as leadership principles to help navigate change. Students analyze theory and practice of managing individuals and groups through motivation, communication, teamwork, collaboration, leadership, organizational change, negotiation, and conflict management and resolution. | 3 |
HSA 7260 - Operations and Quality Management in HealthcareThere are many opportunities for healthcare organizations and/or their unitary departments to employ strategies to affect the challenges and enhance the outcomes found in today's healthcare delivery system. This course familiarizes the student to a framework of various concepts and tools necessary for understanding the operationalization of health service delivery processes and their effect on performance outcomes. The development of leadership performance competencies that support interprofessional collaboration in organizational health care delivery systems, process improvement, and project and quality management will be emphasized. Through clinical and service quality planning, control and improvement initiatives, outcomes will demonstrate that quality improvement is a strategic mandate Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations. OR HSA 7260B - Operations and Quality Management in Healthcare (B)There are many opportunities for healthcare organizations and/or their unitary departments to employ strategies to affect the challenges and enhance the outcomes found in today's healthcare delivery system. This course familiarizes the student to a framework of various concepts and tools necessary for understanding the operationalization of health service delivery processes and their effect on performance outcomes. The development of leadership performance competencies that support interprofessional collaboration in organizational health care delivery systems, process improvement, and project and quality management will be emphasized. Through clinical and service quality planning, control and improvement initiatives, outcomes will demonstrate that quality improvement is a strategic mandate Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations.This is an Accelerated Learning Course. | 3 |
IPE 7121 - Organizational Leadership & Policy in Health CareThis course introduces students to interprofessional healthcare policy and organizational leadership concepts. Students have the opportunity to analyze and advocate for health policy with the inclusion of diverse stakeholders to optimize access to care, improve care coordination, and reduce disparities affecting population health. Various leadership styles are examined as well as self-assessment, goal setting, and strategies for continuous improvement as healthcare leaders. OR IPE 7121B - Organizational Leadership & Policy in Health Care (B)This course introduces students to various concepts and tools necessary for understanding operationalization of health service delivery and the effect on performance outcomes, including leadership competencies that support interprofessional collaboration, process improvement, health policy and regulation, and project and quality management. Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and develop metrics for monitoring daily operations within their field. | 3 |
IPE 7133 - Foundations in Healthcare Administration with Strategic PlanningStudents build on leadership concepts introduced in IPE 7121 to develop a foundational understanding of healthcare administration while analyzing the changing landscape of the healthcare environment. Application of these concepts occurs through formulating, implementing, and evaluating a strategic plan while working with an interprofessional team. Students examine the role of strategic planning in achieving organizational performance measures as well as the notion of planning as a cyclical process within the healthcare organization in the role of a healthcare administrator. | 3 |
| Specialization Credit Hours 12 | |
| Degree Credit Hours 60 | |
Dr. Hannah Oldenburg is a clinical and research expert in clinical education, occupational roles and outcomes in acute care, and mechanical circulatory devices. In her current role as an occupational therapist at the Mayo Clinic, she hosted a collaborative model for Level II occupational therapy students within acute care. She has also served as an adjunct professor for St. Catherine University and an occupational therapist at Recovery Health, Inc.
Dr. Oldenburg received her B.S. in Kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire in 2009. She went on to receive her Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy at St. Catherine University in 2012. She transitioned to her clinical education role in 2016 while pursuing a Doctor of Education from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. She obtained her EdD degree in 2018 with her dissertation, “Retrospective Comparison of Clinical Reasoning Among Rehabilitation Students During Experiential Learning.”
Dr. Delia C. Garcia is a former dean of the College of Education at Florida International University, where she continues to serve as associate professor in what has been renamed the School of Education and Human Development. Prior to her appointment as dean, she served as interim dean, as well as chairperson of FIU’s departments of Educational Leadership and Professional Studies.
Dr. Garcia has published in the areas of family involvement, teacher and parent efficacy, and urban teacher preparation. She has also developed curriculum guides for teacher education in the areas of home school relations, adult literacy, and English as a second language. She teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in research, urban education, and teacher education. She has supervised and participated in numerous doctoral dissertations. She has also taken on leadership roles within professional organizations, including serving as an elected member of the board of directors of the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education (AACTE), receiving gubernatorial appointments to Florida’s State Advisory Committee in the area of family literacy, serving as president of the Bilingual Association of Florida for six years, and chairing state and district advisory committees that focused on narrowing the achievement gap in schools and preparing adult educators in Florida.
Dr. Garcia has been a leader in the area of community engagement for the past 35 years, forging university-school partnerships that address community needs and focus on problem-solving.
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Doctor of Education
Foreign-trained candidates who do not require a student visa to participate in University courses and/or degrees can be considered for admission. Please note that many countries have their own accrediting and licensing bodies, and degree recognition and licensure differ from country to country. Additionally, a number of countries do not recognize an online EdD education degree for employment or promotion purposes, particularly government agency employment or promotion. University programs are designed to meet accreditation, licensure and other requirements in the United States. If you reside outside of the United States, it is important that you review and understand the requirements of your country of residence to confirm licensure requirements, as well as recognition of your program for employment or promotion purposes in those countries.
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