Drake University to launch Singapore-based education leadership doctorate program

Drake University is bringing its education leadership doctorate program to Singapore with a private partnership and government approval, the next step in the university’s efforts to create global education opportunities.

The private Des Moines university announced in a news release Wednesday its doctor of education in leadership degree will launch in Singapore this fall, combining in-person instruction and online coursework for a 36-month program that can be condensed into 21 months with an accelerated pathway.

Drake partnered with private education institution Nanyang Science and Technology College to develop the international program, which received approval from the Higher Learning Commission and Singapore’s government.

“By bringing our successful Ed.D. Leadership program to Singapore, we are empowering a new generation of leaders to address the complex educational and organizational challenges in an international context, while maintaining the rigor and academic excellence our program is known for,” said Ryan Wise, dean of Drake’s School of Education, in the release. “Singapore is a premier destination for world-class education, and we’re incredibly excited for what the future holds with this partnership.”

According to the release, the Singapore program “provides a curriculum taught by Drake faculty that prepares graduates to be leaders with globally recognized skills.” Nanyang Science and Technology College’s city campus in central Singapore will house the program and its students. The program’s online description states the curriculum will focus on global skills development through “practical study” of leadership, ethics, technology, research methodologies and more.

In addition to this new program, Drake has also previously announced an expansion of its study abroad programming to Seoul, set to open in spring 2027, and the creation of a data analytics and artificial intelligence program in Panama City, which will start enrolling students in fall 2027.

“This collaboration with NSTC is another significant milestone in Drake University’s commitment to global education and leadership development,” said Annique Kiel, Chief Global Affairs Officer and Dean of Global Programs at Drake University. “We are proud to continue building upon our mission of preparing students for meaningful personal lives, professional accomplishments, and responsible global citizenship throughout the world.”