tchrsquirrel

EdD in Reading/Writing/Literacy. On pins and needles, as well!

I mirror what others have said: Master's programs come in a variety of price points; here in the US, one can spend a (relatively) marginal amount at a small state school or a hefty sum at a private school. As far as doctorate admissions, I've heard that is not necessarily rare for applicants with a bachelor's degree only to be admitted to PhD programs (although it is certainly beneficial to have a relevant master's and/or work experience and/or research). EdD, on the other hand, is more practice-based, and I think schools are looking for a relevant master's and work experience (generally speaking, of course--I'm no authority!).

Of course; your credentials are solid (wish I were as qualified!). I'm applying to RWL, EdD. I'm very excited, but also very realistic. It's a very uncertain process; I think (hope!) my numbers and experience are passable, but I have learned that the admissions process is far more about fit (eg, whether a candidate's interests are aligned with faculty members' current projects/research). Best of luck!

Ha, had the same problem with quoting in the beginning!

Hi! I don't know how much I can help, but I will try. The open house was conducted in two sessions. The first was a nice overview of all programs. It was great to hear from admissions reps, program directors, and professors; however, I think this session was geared more toward prospective applicants who had not yet picked a program of interest as the information was pretty general (most of which could be found on the website with enough digging!). The second session was a breakout session by department. I can't speak to details regarding your program because I did not attend that particular breakout session. For me, this session was quite informative. We had the opportunity to speak with professors and current students in the program. The student with whom I spoke was great...very willing to share her time and information. I suspect that if you contacted the school, they would happily provide you with the contact info of a student who could answer any questions you may have. Every time I have contacted GSE, they have been top notch! I hope that helps, at least a little. Good luck!

I'm so glad to hear your app has been sent for review. I know my biggest fear was that my app was somehow incomplete; receiving confirmation of my completed app was a relief in and of itself! And the countdown officially begins! For PhD and EdD, there are interview weekends, which occur in February. I believe that final decisions are made in late-March/early-April. Pretty daunting. At this point, I'd be flattered to be invited for an interview...and pinching myself over an offer of admission. The doctoral programs are super competitive, so I have tempered my expectations accordingly! Best of luck to you!!! Hopefully your new year will kick off with some great news!

travelgirl125-- Any updates? The six-week estimated response has to be drawing near, right? I have my fingers crossed for you. EdD/PhD deadline was yesterday, so we have a way to go.

Thdus82-- Which program? I think I responded to one of your other posts re: GRE scores. Sounds like you have a solid app! Best of luck!

I was there, too! The session was incredibly informative! Someone (may be it was you?) asked your question about admissions responses. The panel indicated that master's degrees admissions are rolling (with few exceptions), and an applicant should have a response within four to six weeks of his/her completed application. Again, I apologize for my general response a few days ago; I am applying for a doctoral program, and it's an entirely different process. I wish you luck and success with your application!

I've noticed quant scores tend to be low in Ed programs, so I wonder if your exceptionally high quant score would be attractive to a program (ie, harder to bolster their quant numbers than to bolster their verbal numbers)? Furthermore, you have a solid writing score, so you clearly have a grasp of vocabulary and writing. I would think that a PhD program, in particular, would be thrilled to see strong quant numbers because getting a PhD is research/stats-heavy. Frankly, I'd be thrilled with your numbers, but I certainly don't blame you for asking the question!

Must stop using my iPhone to reply...keep making mistakes! I apologize; I didn't even consider that the dates of admissions decisions may differ by department and/or degree sought. You may very well be correct about the masters; I am applying for one of the doctoral programs, and the process takes several months, from what I can tell. I hope you get the answer you want in short order!

Jillian125-- I'm still trying to figure out how to quote and reply, so sorry for my empty response above. From what I understand, once the application system shows "submitted," all future correspondence/updates will come from Penn GSE. I submitted a similar question via the application "help desk" (inquiring whether there would be any additional status updates via the application system), and that is what they told me. Since admissions decisions won't be made until next year, I'm guessing it may be a little while; however, I hope that part of the process includes Penn sending an email confirmation that the application is complete and/or has been sent for review. Fingers crossed! Hope that helps, and best of luck!

The most competitive program at Penn GSE appears to be the PhD, and I think the average--even for that program--is 4.4. Bearing in mind that higher and lower scores make up an average (and the admissions committee will look at an application holistically), I don't think a 3.5 would be an absolute bar; however, I would contact GSE and confirm that there isn't a minimum score requirement. Also, google "penn gse class profile," and I think you will quickly find the current numbers, including scores, age ranges, etc. That information may give you some additional guidance. Best of luck!

So excited to see that application season is starting to ramp up! Best of luck to all of you!

la_manda_panda, The programs to which I am applying aren't necessarily similar to the EdLD; they are more narrowly focused on my specific interest in curriculum (EdD in Curriculum and Instruction). Considering your interests (which I think are definitely aligned with the mission of the EdLD), have you looked at the CLO (chief learning officer) program at Penn? I don't know a lot about it, but I think the program seeks to train system-level leaders, as well. All the best with your application to Harvard! I will have my fingers crossed for you!

Thought I'd start a thread. Anyone applying? Which program(s)?

Hi! This post is literally my first, although I have read many others. I am pretty sure I am not applying for the HGSE EdLD; however, I have given it a lot of consideration. I am so impressed by the candidates on this thread (and on others), and I appreciate everyone's candor in terms of numbers, GPAs, etc. I just finished applying for three EdD programs. I am certain I want a "practioner's" degree (as opposed to the more academic PhD). The EdLD is attractive because it seems to be such a huge springboard (not to mention the attractive price tag!). That said, although many of the schools to which I am applying offer fully funded PhDs, I have applied for the EdD because I want to be "in the trenches." If that means paying for my degree, so be it. The EdLD, though, seems to be a hybrid. to some extent. My question would be whether the EdLD is appropriate for someone who is interested in moving into a district-level position, but not necessarily looking to "run the show" (i.e., future superintendant, etc.)? I see myself working at a large school district as a curriculum specialist or some other district-teacher liaison. Thoughts?