EDU-HBWE - Exceptional Learning, Health Behavior and Wellness Education Concentration, Ph.D.

A multifaceted approach is taken in the application and admissions decisions process. The applicant will be evaluated on the criteria listed below in order to determine the applicant's overall potential for success in the ELPhD program. Please note, however, that fulfillment of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

1. QPA–Consideration for admission to the program is based on the applicant's grade point average (GPA) in the last graduate degree or the last 60 hours of undergraduate work if no graduate degree has been completed. If a student has successfully completed some graduate hours but not attained a graduate degree, the GPA for these courses may also be considered. An average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or above from a recognized baccalaureate, graduate, or professional degree from an accredited college or university, or an international equivalent based on a four-year curriculum is required for admission.

2. GRE– valid GRE scores (score date within 5 years of application) must be submitted as part of the ELPhD application.

3. Scholarly Writing–Students must demonstrate scholarly writing skill and mastery by submitting a reference-based paper, thesis, or other written document. The writing sample should use multiple, credible sources to support a particular point of view, argument, or claim and show the applicant's writing quality, skillful analysis/argument, and proficiency with synthesizing information. The applicant must be the sole author. The scholarly writing sample does not have a specific topic requirement.

4. Statement of Intent–One (1) to two (2) pages that address the following: intended enrollment (semester and year), intended concentration, autobiographical statement, educational and professional goals, and area of interest for future research. Applicants to the ABA concentration must indicate the track in which they wish to enroll: School-Aged & Adult Populations (ABAS) or Young Children & Families (YCF).

5. Three Letters of Recommendation–Recommendation letters should be from individuals, preferably professors, who are able to comment on the student's qualifications and scholarly aptitude for doctoral study. The letter should also address characteristics that will contribute to the student's success as a doctoral student should you be accepted in the ELPhD program. Consideration will be made based upon the content of these letters. Please make certain the recommenders know they must submit a letter as well as evaluate the applicant on a series of qualities (done when submitting the letter). Applications without three letters may not receive full consideration.

6. Professional Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume

7. Interviews - Applicants who pass the initial evaluation will be required to have an interview with the ELPhD program faculty and director of graduate programs.

8. International Students must also meet the English Language Requirement by providing TOEFL test scores: a minimum of 80 on the TOEFL iBT is required. If you have taken another TOEFL version and the results are still valid (no more than 5 years old), the score requirements are: 213 on TOEFL CBT or 550 on TOEFL PBT.

Applicants who have citizenship in a country where English is a primary language or have been awarded a degree from a university in one of the following countries are exempt from the English Language requirement: Australia, Belize, the British Caribbean and British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States, and Wales.

If a candidate does not have access to a TOEFL testing site, it may be possible to accept another language proficiency test score. Candidates should inquire before submitting a test score other than the TOEFL.