Admission

Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 3.500 on a 4.000 scale for all graduate-level credit hours. In addition, applicants must have validated strengths on the multiple indicators listed as follows:

1. Official transcripts of all college-level work completed, and indication of a graduate degree conferral in education, psychology or a closely related field;
2. At least three letters of recommendation from supervisors and/or professional peers that attest to the applicant’s potential for success in a doctoral program and/or their chosen track;
3. A current resume or curriculum vita of educational and professional experience;
4. A brief, one-page statement of professional goals related to the completion of the doctoral degree in educational leadership — specifically their chosen track; and
5. A sample of academic writing (such as a published article or paper written for a graduate-level course).

Review of completed applications begins in the fall semester. Applications are accepted until August 1st for fall admission.

Program Requirements

Background Check

Upon admission and prior to their first semester, all applicants admitted to this program must clear a criminal background check. There are two reasons for this requirement. First, it is part of the university’s due diligence before placing students in field settings. Second, the check may alert applicants or students to issues that may subsequently affect their ability to work in their chosen field. In instances when a person’s criminal history raises reasonable concerns that should be cleared to engage in the field experiences and/or subsequently obtain licensure/endorsement, WSU may take a range of actions, including rescission of admission or dismissal from the program, depending on the nature of the concern.

For information regarding this requirement, visit: Advanced Programs¹.

Educational Leadership — Educational Psychology Track Curriculum (55 credit hours)

Example Course Sequence with Higher Education Leadership Emphasis:

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Applied Learning 

Students in the educational leadership (EdD) program are required to complete an applied learning or research experience to graduate from this program. The requirement can be met by completing the dissertation.