Higher Education Leadership - Doctor of Education Admission
Please view the introduction letter from the Director of Advanced Programs.
The EDD-Higher Education Leadership (HEL) program has rolling admissions; completed applications will be reviewed throughout the year. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early. Individuals interested in applying will need to first submit a completed application packet with all required documents before the established deadline.
The EDD admissions process involves multiple steps during which applicants must satisfactorily complete an application materials review, a credential screening, a personal interview, a group exercise, and a writing sample. The HEL program chair and faculty review applications using a holistic approach considering all elements of the application.
Upcoming Cohorts:
- Summer Block 2 Cohort (Now accepting applications)
- Completed applications will be considered until June 1st or until the cohort fills.
Admission Requirements
For admission to the Doctor of Education program, applicants must satisfactorily complete credential screening and a committee interview, including a written component. All applicants must also submit the following:
- A Completed Doctoral Application
A $35 non-refundable application fee is required.
- Official Transcripts, reflecting the following:
- The completion of a bachelor’s and master’s degree from regionally accredited colleges or universities.
- A cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher is required.
Official Transcripts may be sent electronically or by mail, directly from the school of attendance, in a sealed envelope to:
- Three Letters of Recommendation
All letters must be completed by individuals who can attest to the applicant’s aptitude for doctoral-level study, propensity for problem-solving, and demonstrated leadership. One letter must be from an immediate supervisor and two from professional colleagues and/or academic professors.
Recommendations are to be requested through your Admissions Portal.
Delayed recommendation letters will hinder the admissions process. It is suggested you 1) inform those who are writing for you to highlight the areas mentioned in the first sentence and provide examples and 2) follow-up to ensure your recommendations are received in a timely manner.
- A Current Resume
Please upload a current resume in either a word document or PDF in your Admissions Portal.
- Written Statement of Purpose and Reflection of Learning Goals & Problem of Practice
Please consider the following prompts thoughtfully and provide a meaningful writing sample for the admissions committee to consider. Responses should be typed, double-spaced, and in APA 7th edition writing standards/format.
Both the content of your answers and your ability to write are being evaluated, so proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling are important. Please submit your written statement in either a word document or PDF in your Admissions Portal.
Statement of Purpose (500-word limit)
I. Describe your a) academic and professional experiences/background, b) career ambitions, and c) your reasons for applying to the HEL program. Specifically, explain how the HEL program suits your educational and career aspirations.
II. The HEL program is a cohort model and one of the initial goals of the program is to create a community of learners. Describe the skills, experiences, and values you will bring to your cohort and the HEL learning community at Wilmington University.
Reflection of Learning Goals & Problem of Practice (500-word limit)
I. Describe the higher education issues you want to learn about and intellectual growth areas you hope to develop during the HEL program.
II. Describe a problem evident in your institutional community/scope of practice that you believe can be addressed by relevant research skills and scholarly inquiry.
Since we do not require standardized test scores as criterion for admissions, the written statement weighs significantly in the initial screening process. Please give careful attention to the quality of the content, writing mechanics, and organization of thought.
Admission Process Stages
Applicants are screened for admission to the HEL program based on the potential to be successful academically as a graduate student and professionally as an educational leader. Interviews are based on completed admissions documentation and the quality of the responses to the documentation. The admissions process is accomplished in two stages.
Stage 1: Review of Application Materials
- Undergraduate and graduate academic transcripts (3.0 GPA or higher is required)
- Relevant professional/volunteer experience documented on the resume
- Three recommendation letters from individuals knowledgeable of an applicant’s abilities and potential for success
- Statement of purpose and a reflection of learning goals and problem of practice
Applicants who successfully meet the screening criteria in Stage 1 are invited to interview and complete assessments in Stage 2.
Stage 2: Interview
- Individual interview conducted by the program chair and faculty
- Group interview facilitated by faculty in which applicants participate in a problem-solving exercise
- Final writing assessment
All admissions materials must be complete and submitted by the application deadline for an applicant to be considered for an interview. Interviews will be conducted either in person or using technology (e.g., Zoom/Teams).