Learn more about the Doctoral Student Academic Technology Fellowship
Welcome to the Doctoral Program
Meet Our New PK12 Doctoral Cohort
What is the difference between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.? The Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) is a professional degree that focuses on the application of theory and research to problems of practice in education and is designed for working professionals and educational leaders. The Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) tends to be more research-oriented and is often designed for individuals who wish to become faculty or want to pursue research as a main element of their career.
When should I apply? Each application cycle is open between October and June prior to the Fall semester of admission. Prospective students who submit a complete application on or before the deadline will receive an admission decision within 4-6 weeks.
Can I apply to start in the Spring semester? We do not admit students to start in Spring semesters.
When does the program start? How long does the program take to complete? Each cohort begins the program with a summer orientation with coursework starting the in Fall semester (late August). The program is structured for degree requirements (including dissertation) to be completed in three years. Summer terms are required.
How often do classes meet? Classes meet once a week in the evenings (year round), and one Saturday a month during Fall and Spring.
Can I get financial aid? Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Financial aid to complete your doctoral program may consist of loans, external grants, and scholarships. Most graduate students receive a combination of grants and federal student loans. Private educational loans are also available to students who require additional financial assistance. To learn more, visit the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.
How can I learn more about the program? You may review the doctoral program website or attend a program information session (dates and times are available on the website). Further information is also available by contact the doctoral office at 818-677-2403.
Are GRE scores required? The program does not require GRE for admissions. It is not considered in the application evaluation process.
Can I apply to the program if I do not have a degree in education? Yes, we do accept students without degrees in education. Our students come from a wide variety of disciplines and professional backgrounds.
What types of financial support are available for the program? Students enrolled in the Ed.D. Program are eligible for any federal financial aid they are qualified to receive; our students typically receive unsubsidized Stafford loans. We also offer a few scholarships and fellowships. The scholarships are provided by the College of Education, and the deadline to apply is in October each year.
Writing Samples: Writing is among the most significant activities in which you will engage within the program. Authoring a dissertation is a significant undertaking and your ability to write with clarity and care for a reader is key. Your writing sample will serve to demonstrate your abilities to be successful in these endeavors. Our preference is for the sample to be academic writing. For example, a paper or research project from your previous graduate work. If such evidence is unavailable, you should consider a professional writing example. This might be something you produced on-the-job (e.g., report, program review or evaluation, training materials). Applicants are advised to avoid more informal forms of writing, such as school newsletters, web-posted communications, and the like. In sum, we appreciate reviewing a formal example of your writing, and an example that is academic writing—or as close to academic writing as possible.