The purpose of this descriptive investigation was to determine the effectiveness of the Ed.D. Program in Educational Administration at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University as perceived by its graduates. Surveys returned by graduates were analyzed for the purposes of determining whether the program was effective in preparing them to perform administrative tasks, whether the program assisted in career advancement and if the program was not effective, how could it have been improved. The results overwhelmingly indicated graduates perceived the program as effective. They indicated the program broadened their perspectives and provided knowledge that helped them become agents of change in educational administration. Graduates indicated achieving the degree provided them with a high level of personal satisfaction and accomplishment. The Ed.D. Administration Degree enhanced their chances for career advancement. Graduates who did not experience career advancement indicated the degree served them well by increasing their knowledge in the field. The Ed.D. Administration faculty were praised highly and were referred to as Educational "trend setters." The Ed.D. Administration degree has become the "degree" to have in Virginia as indicated by graduates of the program.

Results of the study led to recommendations that the caliber of graduates remain high; use professors from Blacksburg to maintain high caliber of instruction; program flexibility should remain so that candidates who are not a part of a cohort group may enter the program at different stages; continue to seek diversity in students and staff; maintain status of College of Education; and finally, College of Education should continue to prepare Educational Leaders and should not merge with any other college at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.