Walden University Offers New Specialization in Doctor of Education Program

Minneapolis—April 8, 2005—Walden University has signed articulation agreements with the AACC Future Leaders Institute, the Academy for Leadership and Development, and Antioch University McGregor to address the leadership crisis facing the nation’s community colleges today. These agreements provide a fast track for graduates of these programs to complete their doctoral studies at Walden University, helping to develop and grow future leaders for community colleges.

A March report from the National Council of Instructional Administrators (NCIA) suggests that more than 40 percent of the nation’s community college leaders will retire in six years, another 34 percent between seven and 10 years. The NCIA also notes that many full-time faculty retirements—coinciding with an increase in student enrollment—will produce a serious instructional shortfall during the current decade. In California alone, 50 percent of the faculty will turn over by 2010.

Background
Since 1970, Walden University has offered working professionals the opportunity to earn advanced degrees through distance learning. Today, this comprehensive, accredited online university offers master’s and doctoral degrees in education, psychology, management, and health and human services, as well as master’s programs in engineering and IT and bachelor’s completion programs in business. For more information, visit www.WaldenU.edu.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.hlcommission.org; 312-263-0456.

The AACC Future Leaders Institute is a program developed and run by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). For more information about the AACC Future Leaders Institute or the American Association of Community Colleges visit www.aacc.nche.edu.

The Academy for Leadership Development, a program offered through the Maricopa Community Colleges, has been offering year-long leadership training programs since 1993. More than 4,500 leaders worldwide have participated in the academy. For more information about the Academy for Leadership and Development’s programs, visit www.mc.maricopa.edu/chair.

Antioch University McGregor offers a 21-month, limited residency, online Master of Arts degree, specifically designed for current and aspiring community college managers and administrators. Students learn with other community college professionals and experienced faculty from across the nation who understand the community college and what it takes to successfully manage in this environment. Current students and faculty represent more than 20 institutions in 12 states. For more information about Antioch University McGregor’s master’s degree, visit www.mcgregor.edu/ccm.