Wilkes University, one of Pennsylvania’s leading providers of advanced education for teachers and school administrators, is re-introducing the doctor of education degree program starting in the fall 2014 semester and accepting applications now.

Wilkes University’s Doctor of Education Ed.D in Educational Leadership is a 60-credit post-master’s program. The program specializes in educational leadership and kindergarten through grade 12 administration. The kindergarten through 12 administration track leads to a superintendent’s letter of eligibility if the student holds a Pennsylvania administrative or supervisory certificate at the time of admission.

“Our faculty offer an impressive balance of empirical and practical experience from which doctoral students can benefit,” said Rhonda A. Waskiewicz, interim dean of the school of education in a press release. “We pride ourselves in our ability to provide a strong academic environment that is enhanced by practice.”

Students can choose from three different concentrations in the educational leadership program; educational technology, curriculum and instruction, or educational leadership studies.

Students also have to complete in addition to the doctoral level coursework a development and acceptance of a dissertation proposal to conduct field-based research grounded in theory which results in a final dissertation and its defense.

Accepted students are mentored throughout the program and guided through their dissertation research process by skilled full-time and adjunct faculty holding terminal degrees who possess extensive experience as educators and researchers.

The program combines both face-to-face classes and online learning. Having a cohort format helps build a support network of faculty and peers, allowing the students to complete the program with the same student group.

Accepted students can transfer up to 12 post-master credits toward their degree if their prior coursework aligns with their current curriculum in their field of study. Students can achieve their degree within four years if they successfully complete 12-18 credits per year, followed by dissertation development.

“Working towards an Ed.D takes dedication and a commitment for a long period of time, it does not happen overnight,” said Associate Director of Graduate Admissions, Holly Fry.

The fall application deadline is May 1 with classes starting in September. Applicants are required to already have a master’s degree in education or a related field and take the Graduate Record Examination. Prior scholarly work and writing samples are also required for applicants as well as an interview with program faculty.

For more information contact Fry at [email protected].