The Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies at the University of Houston College of Education prepares compassionate, transformative leaders committed to the success of all students. As part of a Tier One public research university in a diverse, dynamic city, we strive to inform policy and practice to improve outcomes across the educational pipeline. ELPS offers graduate programs for aspiring principals, superintendents, special education professionals, higher education administrators, policymakers and researchers. We also offer undergraduate minors in special populations and Asian American studies.
The department’s graduate-level programs help educators and other professionals specialize and advance their careers. Our minors help undergraduate students gain critical knowledge and stand out among their peers.
Higher Education
K-12 Leadership
Special Populations
Asian American Studies
As part of a Carnegie-designated Tier One public research institution, we prioritize rigorous, relevant coursework to support student success. Whether virtual or face-to-face, students can be confident in the quality of our instruction. In 2026, we earned a No. 18 ranking from U.S. News & World Report for our online master’s degree programs. We’re dedicated to flexibility to meet students’ needs. Pick a program that’s right for you!
Kregg Cuellar, who earned an Ed.D. in professional leadership in 2011, has been named superintendent of Spring ISD.
Higher education Ph.D. candidate Hope Pacheco was named associate dean of students and executive director of the Gator Resource Center at the University of Houston-Downtown.
Cierra Nickerson became principal of Avalos P-TECH School in Aldine ISD. Nickerson previously served as the district’s director for professional learning.
Two faculty members earned promotions in fall 2025: Charlotte L. Carp to clinical associate professor and Detra Johnson to associate professor with tenure.
Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies
University of Houston College of Education
McElhinney Hall
3623 Cullen Blvd., Room 3001
Houston, TX 77204-5023
Department phone: 713-743-7846
Email: delps@uh.edu
