Program Overview

Doctor of Education (EdD)

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program at Seattle Pacific University is designed to develop leadership skills and influence in education. The program offers specializations in executive leadership, digital education leadership, literacy, curriculum and instruction, or a self-designed program.

Program Overview

The EdD program is a 36-48 month program that requires 90 credits to complete. The program is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and has a low residency requirement, with most classes held online and a two-week on-campus residency each summer.

Curriculum

The EdD curriculum includes foundation courses, specialization courses, and a dissertation. The foundation courses include a Leadership Colloquium, Introduction to Educational Research and Statistics, and Instructional Theory. Specialization courses vary depending on the chosen specialization.

Specializations

The EdD program offers the following specializations:

• Executive Leadership
• Digital Education Leadership
• Literacy
• Curriculum and Instruction
• Self-Designed

Admission Requirements

Admission to the EdD program requires:

• A master's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
• A minimum of three years of successful experience at the P-12 level or other similar educational setting
• Official transcripts documenting excellent undergraduate and graduate GPAs
• A personal statement expressing professional plans, goals, and focus of study
• Three recent letters of recommendation
• A résumé documenting successful experience
• A writing sample demonstrating graduate-level writing skills

Tuition and Fees

The tuition for the EdD program is $860 per credit, with a total of 90 credits required to complete the program. Additional fees include a $50 application fee and other administrative fees.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to students who are admitted to the EdD program. Students must enroll in at least 3 credits per quarter and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year.

Faculty

The EdD program is taught by expert and caring faculty who are known for mentoring their students. The faculty are actively involved in scholarly activities and publish frequently in professional journals.

Accreditation

The EdD program is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The School of Education is also a member of the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AACU) and the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.

Suggested Course Sequence

A suggested course sequence is available for each specialization, and students can work with their advisor to customize their course plan to meet their needs.

Dissertation

The dissertation is a required component of the EdD program. Students will work with their advisor to develop a dissertation proposal, conduct research, and defend their dissertation.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate from the EdD program, students must:

• Complete all required coursework
• Pass two comprehensive exams
• Produce a professional educational theory paper
• Complete a dissertation and receive passing marks
• Pass the oral defense of the dissertation

Why Seattle Pacific University?

Seattle Pacific University is a great choice for students who want to earn an EdD degree because of its strong reputation in P-12 education, its expert and caring faculty, and its flexible and affordable program options. The university is committed to developing competence, character, leadership, and service in educators, and its EdD program is designed to help students achieve their professional goals.