HELP Ph.D. in Educational Studies Print-Friendly Page Add to Portfolio

The Ph.D. in Education Studies will prepare educators from a variety of community organizations (P-12 schools, higher education and other community contexts) to engage in effective research and practice about teaching and learning. The program consists of two primary strands, one that concentrates on developing educators for P-12 learners, and a second that prepares educators for post secondary learners. The program is theoretically rigorous, grounded in best practices and directly linked to the University’s strategic initiatives. A key underlying emphasis of the program will be a focus on poverty and its specific impact on urban, as well as suburban and rural communities.

Admissions:

The applicant must submit to the Office of Admissions (http://www.emich.edu/admissions/grad/main/):

• Official or true-attested copy of undergraduate and graduate transcripts. Graduate transcripts documenting completion of either a Master’s or Specialist’s degree from an accredited university with at least a 3.3 GPA.

• A completed Graduate Admission Application Form and application fee.

• If applicable, submit evidence of English language proficiency as documented by official test scores on the TOEFL, MELAB, or IELTS.

• A resume reflecting professional experience, community engagement, scholarly activity, etc.

• A rationale statement (up to 350 words) that explains why the Doctorate in Educational Studies program is relevant to his/her professional and/or personal development plan.

• A critical/analytic essay (APA style, up to 750 words, excluding references) that addresses a significant current/historical issue in applicant’s concentration of interest. The essay should include (see rubric):

  • Meaningful and substantive definition of an issue relevant and clearly connected to the concentration of interest (Urban Ed or Nursing).
  • Critical appraisal of the related elements within the issue demonstrated by clear explication of claims and awareness of counter-claims, supported where appropriate by relevant literature/research.
  • Analysis that points to potential avenues for further research that clearly supports relevant practice, advocacy, and leadership in the concentration of interest.
  • Contextually appropriate grammar, syntax, and citation style (APA) to communicate meaning effectively.
  • Logical organization with coherent supporting ideas. Organization is reinforced with an informative introduction, fully developed paragraphs, effective transitions, and a compelling conclusion.

• Three online references from persons who are familiar with the applicant’s academic and/or professional work. See online form.