Cumberlands’ Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Ranked Among Top Programs

University of the Cumberlands’ online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership program has been recognized once again as one of the top programs in the nation by The Princeton Review. 

For over 40 years, The Princeton Review has been a trusted source of information for students and their families. Their unranked list of Best Online Doctor of Education Programs for 2025 highlights the top 50 programs in the country, selected based on criteria such as flexibility, affordability, and access to innovative technology. Cumberlands’ Ed.D. program has been named one of the best on multiple occasions. 

Dr. Nathan Hamblin, dean of the school of leadership, expressed his pride in the recognition, stating, “We understand the unique challenges of advancing your education while balancing a professional career. That’s why we prioritize offering a high-quality, affordable, and flexible educational experience to help students confidently achieve their goals. The recognition from The Princeton Review affirms the hard work we’ve put into this mission, and we’ll continue to adapt to better meet our students’ needs.”   

In response to sustained enrollment growth and expanding program offerings, Cumberlands’ School of Education and Cumberlands’ Department of Leadership Studies have recently merged to form the College of Education and Leadership. Dr. Trey Jarboe, provost, explained the move, stating, “Both of these programs have long been recognized for their strength, innovation, and commitment to excellence. By bringing them together under one college, we aim to foster deeper collaboration, enhance interdisciplinary opportunities, and better support the evolving needs of our students and faculty.” 

The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership is one of the key programs offered by the college of education and leadership. The program equips students to create clear, impactful solutions in their current and future roles. The curriculum focuses on the inner workings of education, empowering students to attain a deeper understanding of decision-making, program evaluation, assessment, institutional improvement, professional writing, and research skills. Graduates are prepared for high-level positions, such as school principals, administrators, and university department chairs. 

To learn more about the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and other doctoral offerings, visit https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics. Click here to see the complete list of The Princeton Review’s rankings.