The College of Education celebrated the 30th anniversary of the doctoral program in curriculum and instruction and the 10th anniversary of the education specialist in executive educational leadership program on September 15th at the Alumni and Friends Center. Program graduates and faculty gathered to recognize these milestones and celebrate their successes as educators and leaders in their fields.
The Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction is the first doctoral degree program established at Boise State. Graduates from the program contribute to education research, teach in colleges and universities and serve as leaders in education policy. The Education Specialist in Executive Educational Leadership degree prepares and certifies educators to become superintendents, serving Idaho’s diverse school districts.
Graduates from the Master of Education in Educational Leadership program were also in attendance for the celebration. The master’s program prepares and certifies educators as school principals.
The 1993 approval of the doctoral program under then College of Education Dean Bob Barr transformed Boise State University into a “doctoral degree granting” university, opening the door for expanded research, attracting new and increased sources of external funding. The program paved the way in the development of doctoral programs across campus and proved to be an attractive program for recruiting faculty from research universities. The program has graduated 235 students over the past 30 years, who earn EdD in Curriculum and Instruction degrees.
Barr, who was in attendance at the event, recognized the program’s impact. “The doctoral program provides a strong foundation and future development of the college,” said Barr. “The program continues to make outstanding contributions to education throughout the state of Idaho and nationwide.”
Current College of Education Dean James Satterfield echoed Barr in recognizing the doctoral program’s impact. “The doctoral program in curriculum and instruction is an important milestone in the academic history of Boise State University,” said Satterfield. “Without this degree, our beloved institution and state would not have advanced in such a profound manner.”
In addition, Satterfield recognized the contributions graduates from the executive educational leadership program make. “The preparation our executive leadership program provides helps graduates prepare for a life of service that influences education policy and outcomes at the local, regional, and national levels.”