Hear our ELers speak about the M.A. and Ph.D. — research-informed programs, field-based learning, and student activities that turn classroom theory into leadership practice. Their voices are how the work is lived.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Lead educational change through research, ethics, and practice.
The M.A. and Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (International Program) at Payap University’s International College prepare educators and administrators for research-informed leadership in schools, universities, and education systems.
M.A.
2 years · 36 credits
Ph.D.
3 years · 48 credits
EN / 中文
International language tracks
Chiang Mai
Mae Khao Campus
ELer Highlights
From classroom theory to school-based leadership practice
Listen to Payap ELers on the M.A. and Ph.D.: not only what they study, but where they practice it. Field study with school communities — presenting together, observing leadership where it happens, and growing through shared dialogue. Observe. Engage. Reflect. Lead.
Student activitiesDepartment of Educational Leadership
A graduate home for educational leaders
The M.A. in Educational Leadership is designed for educators and education professionals who seek to strengthen research-informed leadership, educational innovation, and evidence-based practice in diverse institutional and cross-cultural contexts. The Ph.D. is designed for experienced educators, administrators, and education professionals who seek to lead educational change through research, policy, and strategic leadership.
Both programs received approval from the University Board of Trustees at meeting 46/2025 on 14 June 2025.
Research-informed leadership
Scientific evidence guides leadership practice, policy improvement, curriculum development, and teaching innovation — at national and international levels.
Ethical and transformative practice
Core study includes ethical leadership, innovation for educational excellence, and administration for global excellence.
Field-based learning
Graduate students visit schools and international campuses to observe leadership, culture, governance, and community-based learning firsthand.
Global academic networks
The department is expanding partnerships for academic exchange, joint research, faculty and student development, and scholarly dialogue.
Graduate programs
International Program · 2 years · 36 credits
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
For teachers, coordinators, and emerging educational leaders. Thesis track or professional independent-study track. Language of instruction: English or Chinese.
International Program · 3 years · 48 credits
Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership
For experienced educators and administrators. Plan 1.1 research-intensive dissertation, or Plan 2.1 coursework plus dissertation.
Head of the Educational Leadership Department
Dr. Chi Che — research profiles
ORCID, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and the Head of Department’s academic website.
Dr. Chi Che
EL-Payap
From EL-Payap on Facebook
News, field study, and student life from Payap Educational Leadership.
EL-Payap
14 August 2026
UCIS Discovery Field Visit completed
Educational Leadership at the International College celebrated the Master of Educational Leadership Discovery Field Visit to Unity Concord International School. Observe · Engage · Reflect · Connect · Lead.
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EL-Payap
18 August 2026
Why Payap EL? Because leadership is learned by living it
Our ELers are not simply completing a degree — they are building confidence, sharpening critical thinking, challenging assumptions, and learning how to lead meaningful educational change. Think globally. Lead locally. Transform boldly.
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EL-Payap
August 2026
ELer Learning Notes
“Joining Payap EL is one of my best academic decisions. I am learning not only how to manage education but how to transform it.” — a current ELer, shared on the department Facebook page.
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EL-Payap
August 2026
Design Thinking for Meta-Skills Development Lab
Payap EL officially launched the Design Thinking for Meta-Skills Development Lab — unlocking future-ready leadership through human-centered innovation, with academic engagement connected to Dr. Oliver Crocco and Dr. Brian Perkins, Teachers College, Columbia University.
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All news2026
Payap EL welcomes the onsite visit
The President of Polus International College, Chengdu, China, visited Payap Educational Leadership with Dr. Pat and Dr. Chi Che — leadership, care, wellbeing, and thriving.
August 2026
Design Thinking for Meta-Skills Development Lab launched
Payap EL officially launched the Design Thinking for Meta-Skills Development Lab — advancing innovation, leadership, and future-ready skills.
14 August 2026
UCIS Discovery Field Visit completed
Master of Educational Leadership students completed a discovery field visit to Unity Concord International School, led by Dr. Chi Che.