emilb34

If you're looking to get more research/stats experience, I'd consider taking courses for non-credit if you're hesitant to pursue a PhD. It'd strengthen your application down the line. Alternatively, depending on the doc programs you're interested in, some combine their masters and doc students for certain research methods courses and/or offer additional courses in the areas specified for those interested in expanding their skill-set. As a personal note, I'm entering a doc program in the fall and have not completed any research/stats course since I was in my master's program YEARS ago. I even shared that as my worry about returning to school in my interviews, and the faculty never seem phased at all that I didn't feel prepared in this area. I don't know if this helps at all, but don't let one area hold you back from pursuing a degree/passion.

All are very reputable programs. I'd take into consideration funding offers and stats on how quick/what specific positions (in relation to your interest) alum attain post program completion. I'd also find out the cities most students find jobs in post-completion if you're looking to relocate post-graduation to a specific location/city. One year goes by very quick, so you'll (potentially) be job searching before you know it!

Sure! On a positive note, they have awesome assistantships, but this doesn't sound applicable to you since you plan to continue working. However, I've heard others say aside from this feature, the program is sub-par. It's not well-structured and those I know mentioned not being satisfied with the knowledge/education they received in the classroom. Once again though, I'm sure there are students who would speak highly of the program, so take this with a grain of salt.

Ultimately it's the best fit for your individual situation, but I think you need to weigh the personal importance of getting an EdD vs PhD long-term. Some people are happy with an EdD (a worthy degree), yet others stick their nose up to it when people could work towards a PhD. Also, you mention wanting to remain in administration, so consider which doctorate more people tend to have within your field that are at senior level. Additionally, I've heard great things about UVA's program, and while I initially applied for GWU's program, I ultimately withdrew my application after hearing feedback about their program from others. However, you could have a complete opposite experience as I'm sure there are people that disliked UVA or enjoyed their GWU experience. It really all comes back to it's a decision to what makes the most sense for you!

I did the more prestigious institution name for my master's and I regret it a bit. I walked away with more debt than if I had gone elsewhere, and I didn't receive the type of attention I would have liked if I had gone to a school where maybe people weren't so "into themselves." All I have to show is my degree and the institution name. I'd encourage you to think about future relationships with your doc program - this is something that's really weighed heavily on my mind this time around. While there are no guarantees, which school makes you think that you might walk away with stronger relationships with faculty/peers that will lead to amazing opportunities down the line (and while in school)?

@Michelleyk I would try to negotiate on UT. I applied last year, initially got a scholarship and eventually received more funding, so it's not that they don't grant money for 1st years...although it could depend on which doc program you applied to.

Not necessarily. Some programs don't do interviews. Last year I was accepted to a program and did not have an interview.

If you have a Skype or Google/Gmail account, the call won't be outrageously priced. I think I usually pay a few US pennies to call my family in the states and I live in a country that has some of the highest Google phone charges to call internationally. I agree that a call might be a good way to get an answer, particularly at this time of year and given what you're inquiring.

Has anyone heard anything from University of Maryland - College Park's education doc programs yet?

No, if it's an issue with the transcript, they'll reach out to you to resubmit.

I don't know if this is what @MAC2809 is referring to, but Penn has a notorious low acceptance rate in their Ed programs. According to US News rankings, they accept 4.5% of applicants. Don't let this deter you though! People apply and get accepted to programs with low acceptance rates and rejected from programs with high acceptance rates. At the end of the day, the 'admissions game' doesn't always make sense.

Definitely connect with faculty if you can, but perhaps consider contacting the program's coordinator first to chat about the program and be connected that way to a faculty member who is interested in your area of interest/research. I also think (depending on your specific program) that at some institutions you might not have a faculty member who is interested in your area, but I think it carries weight when you say that program coordinator X encouraged you to reach out. As others have said, experience (especially practical) is everything, particularly in the field of education! Yes, related and research experience is wonderful, but the more experience you have in the field you want to study in (particularly unique experiences in that field) the higher the likelihood of you being accepted with funding! I really discounted my application in this cycle. I applied to a few really top schools but I think I could have applied to better considering my practical experience. The things that held me back from applying to a program in the top 5 were my GRE scores and so-so GPA from undergrad and masters. Knowing what I know now, I'm considering applying to even better schools next year and capitalizing on my experience even more. Everyone is different, but I think practical experience is everything in the field of education.

@j.rona It depends on which area of education you're applying to. For example, I'm doing higher ed and most programs don't interview/will interview to you only determine funding, not admittance to a program. However, in ed psych, I've heard of interviews happening more as a part of the admissions process. Hope that helps!

@morifol I would just contact your program/POI directly and ask. They'll be able to give you a straight answer versus trying to decipher what they meant on their website. On top of that, funding is a valid question to ask as you weigh your options. Good luck!

@AresBear How did it go? Was it for the new fellowship specifically, or just the general program? I heard we're receiving notification today/tomorrow about decisions.