Gwynedd Mercy University 2025-2026 University Catalog 185
Complementing the Mission of Gwynedd Mercy University, this program will prepare graduates to address challenges and issues facing instructional leadership.
This program is open to educational professionals across the PK12 spectrum. It addresses a vital need in PK12 schools and school districts. Expertise in curriculum and instruction is critically important as the foundation of what is taught in PK12 schools and how it is taught. This expertise is fundamental to teaching and learning. Through this program, we seek to develop both leadership and scholarship in curriculum and instruction. The cause of social justice requires that curriculum, instruction and e- learning address the needs of under-resourced student populations and diverse learners. As a missiondriven doctoral program, it addresses those needs.
An accelerated program, it consists of 18 courses( 54 credits) and takes 3 years to complete. It is delivered in an asynchronous, online platform, with three residencies. Residencies include a weekend on campus, a week on campus, and a week at a partner university in another nation. Faculty focus on supporting students in their dissertation research beginning in the first course, a centerpiece of our program that contributes to our very high graduation rate.
Textbooks and Residency Costs Included: All required textbooks are provided to students at no additional cost. Most meals during residencies are provided at no additional cost. For the first Doctoral Residency, transportation, and lodging( if needed) are at the expense of the student. For the second Doctoral Residency, transportation is at the expense of the student but lodging and meals are provided at no additional cost. For the third Doctoral Residency, transportation from an airport near your home, lodging, partner university fees, most meals, and related experiences are provided at no additional cost.
Preparation for Professional Licensure: N / A Program Learning Outcomes:
PLO1 Graduates will develop a deep knowledge and understanding of the educator’ s role in curriculum and instruction. PLO2 Graduates will proficiently apply evidence-based strategies for designing, implementing, and assessing principles and practices in curriculum, instruction, assessment, and e-learning. PLO3 Graduates will possess the knowledge and skills to develop, implement, assess, and evaluate curriculum and instruction. PLO4 Graduates will contribute to the advancement of the science of curriculum, instruction, and e- learning through intellectual inquiry, scholarship, and practice.
NOTE: For Coursework Requirements, see Program Handbook and Curriculum Sheets Academic Criteria for Admission, Progression and Retention
Program Admissions Requirements and Procedures:
• A master’ s degree from an institution accredited by a regional accreditation association, with a GPA not less than 3.0.
• Official graduate transcripts.
• A CV showing professional experience. A minimum of three years’ experience is recommended.
• Three professional letters of reference from persons in leadership roles attesting that the applicant can engage in studies at the doctoral level and conduct research.