Gwynedd Mercy University
AY2020-2021 Graduate Academic Catalog
Doctorate of Education ( EdD )
The Doctorate of Education ( EdD ) program is presented in an accelerated cohort model , delivered online with three residencies . It is built upon a foundation of coursework essential to leadership in any educational venue . This foundation is organized in nine courses , three credit hours each , for a total of twenty-seven ( 27 ) credit hours . Students will also elect one of two ( 2 ) areas of concentration , Educational Leadership , which includes in-depth studies through a choice of three tracks , and Teaching and Learning in Higher Education . All students will also enroll in four ( 4 ) Directed Study dissertation advisement courses for a total of twelve ( 12 ) credit hours . The course of study totals fifty-four ( 54 ) credit hours .
The three leadership tracks are as follows : Leadership in Pk-12 School and School Districts Leadership in Higher Education Leadership in Special Education
For those seeking options other than leadership , a concentration that focuses on instruction and program development is offered : Teaching and Learning in Higher Education
Program Purpose The purpose of the program , which can be completed in less than three years , is to impart in students the skills , knowledge , and attitudes necessary to fulfill leadership roles in U . S . and international schools , school districts , colleges , universities , and nonprofit organizations that support education . This program proposes to develop the next generation of educational leadership . Schools , higher education , and education-related organizations are challenged to address the needs of diverse learners and to raise the achievement bar for all students . More is expected of the next generation of educational leaders than ever before . To meet the challenge of leadership , this program will prepare students for advanced professional careers in research , policy analysis , and school administration .
Through a rigorous course of studies , an international perspective , field-based research , and an ethical foundation , students will be prepared to lead educational organizations and transform them to meet the needs of all learners in an increasingly global economy and diverse , global society .
Admission Requirements
• A master ’ s degree in a field related to the student ’ s preferred area of concentration from an institution accredited by the Middle States Association , or comparable accreditation , with a cumulative GPA of
3.0 or above
• Official graduate transcripts
• A Graduate Record Examination score of 155 or higher or a Miller Analogy Test percentile of 65 or higher ( waived for applicants with a graduate GPA of 3.5 or greater )
• A resume showing professional experience . A minimum of three years ’ relevant experience is recommended .
• Three letters of reference from persons in leadership roles in the applicant ’ s chosen area of concentration attesting that the applicant has the ability to engage in studies at the doctoral level and to conduct research
• A personal interview with a member of the graduate faculty representing the applicant ’ s
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