Gwynedd Mercy University 2025-2026 University Catalog 186
• A personal interview with a member of the doctoral faculty, conducted via an electronic medium.
• A written statement of professional goals and research interests.
• A 750 – 1500-word writing sample demonstrating the applicant’ s writing skills.
• For non-U. S. citizens, a minimum score of 550( written), 213( computer), 79( internet) on the TOEFL examination.
Applicants who may not meet one or more of the above requirements are encouraged to contact the Department Chair for a holistic review of qualifications by doctoral faculty.
Transfer Credits: Graduate credits, typically not to exceed six, earned at other accredited institutions in a doctoral program prior to matriculation, may be applied toward the doctoral degree. The credits must have been earned within five years of admission and a grade of B or better must have been earned. The official transcript for transfer of credit must be on file prior to acceptance of credits for transfer.
For Curriculum Sequence, see Program Handbook
Academic Standards / Grade Requirements: To maintain good standing, a student must carry a GPA of 3.0 or above and not earn a grade lower than B in any course( or Pass in any Pass / Fail course).
Attendance Policies: Doctoral students are expected to attend the full duration of all residencies in person except that ABD students have the option to attend the international residency as part of EDU 809 or participate in the course 100 % online. Absence from any portion of a residency requires advance approval of the Program Director. For online courses, a student that fails to participate for two consecutive weeks will be administratively dropped from the course.
Academic Progress / Academic Probation: A student whose GPA falls below a 3.0 will be placed on Academic Probation and must improve their GPA to a 3.0 or higher within the next six credits completed. A student who earns a grade of C or C + will receive a notice of Academic warning.
Academic Dismissal: A student who is placed on academic probation and fails to resolve the issue as outlined above will be dismissed from the program. A student who earns a C or C + in more than two courses or who earns below a C in any course will be dismissed from the program. Students who are dismissed may apply for readmission one year after the date of dismissal. Acceptance for readmission is not guaranteed.
Course Withdrawal Policies: A student may withdraw from a 7-week course by Sunday of week four, 11:59 pm. A student who withdraws from a course by the stated deadline will be assigned a final grade of“ W” and will be financially responsible in accordance with the University Refund Policy.
Time to Completion: The doctoral degree must be completed within seven years from enrollment in the program. A student may request an extension of this time period, not to exceed one year, in the case of extenuating circumstances.
Professional Disposition, Graduation Requirements, and Option for the ABD( All But Dissertation)
Professional Disposition and Conduct: Doctoral and post-master ' s certification studies are intentionally described as“ executive” programs. Professional dispositions and courtesy are expected of all parties in