(Note: We are not accepting an Ed.D cohort until Fall 2024)

ELP operates one application cycle every two years for fall admission. All applications are due by 4 PM (MST).

Requirements for Application

• A completed master's degree with a GPA of at least 3.00.
• Experience in full-time leadership role in higher education for 5 years at the Associate Director level or higher.
• Application fee
• For domestic applicants the application fee is $55, for international applicants,  the fee is $65. You can pay your fee online through the AY system.
• Our program does not require the GRE.

Required Documents for Application

Under the Program Information section on the AY application, first choose your program  Educational Leadership & Policy EDD program, and upload the following:

• Resume or Vita that includes academic and professional information and demonstrates career development (i.e. leadership roles, professional activities, and volunteer involvement)
• Statement of Purpose (Limit statement to 500 words or less) Describe the following:
  • Your reason for seeking this degree and your career aspirations upon completing an Ed.D.
  • How you see the  program fitting into your academic and professional trajectory
  • A concise statement of your research interests and your personal motivation in educational leadership
  • How you envision your fit within the department

• Writing Sample
  • Using the statement and questions below, submit an essay that responds to the topic. (Limit response to 1000 words)
  • Describe a significant professional accomplishment that required strategic thinking, relationship building, and perseverance related to social justice and/or equity. Define what made this a source of accomplishment and describe what challenges you had to overcome to achieve the goal(s). What values, interests, and issues represented in this accomplishment motivate you to pursue advanced study in educational leadership?

• Three letters of recommendation, which should be written by:
  • A faculty member from whom you have previously taken a class. The letter should address your skills and abilities to navigate the academic rigor of doctoral education.
  • Current/prior direct supervisor who will address your future potential for leadership in higher education.
  • An individual who will speak to the applicant’s potential to lead social change in higher education.
  • Letters will be submitted through the AY application website.

Additional Application Requirements

• Letter of Support from the Institution This letter will:
  • Acknowledge support of your participation in the Ed.D. Degree from your home institution.
  • Address elements such as release time for courses and applied experiences, access to data for the course and practicum projects, and resource support for professional development.
  • Your immediate supervisor or VP should provide this letter. Email your letter to Marilynn Howard at marilynn.howard@utah.edu.

• Admissions Interview 
  • This interview will provide an opportunity to present your portfolio on equity projects, social justice activities, inclusion work and other leadership experiences.

All application materials must be provided on or prior to March 1.

If you have questions or concerns at any time, please contact our Academic Coordinator, Marilynn Howard, at 801-581-6714, marilynn.howard@utah.edu

Scholarships are available through many organizations at the University. Students should consider the following sources:

• Educational Leadership & Policy Department
• College of Education
• Organizations in Student Affairs such as Women’s Resource Center and Olpin Union

Students should also use the scholarship tool Academic Works.

The transformational leaders of social change in our program are focused on:

• Serving our campus, community, state, and stakeholders to create, expand and support educational access and opportunity for diverse populations.
• Engaging with challenging issues to address inequitable conditions in society.
• Championing difficult decisions that are framed within a social justice paradigm to create equity in higher education.

These individuals approach issues, solutions, and change from:

• A lens of inquiry and evidence for decision-making.
• A focus on partnerships and collaboration to create holistic solutions.
• A frame of appreciation and respect for all members of the community.

Here is an example of our curriculum:

Summer is not required if you will be taking credits in Fall.

University Information

• Apply Now
• Graduate Assistantship Information
• Available Graduate Assistantships:
• ELP Higher Education Seminar Series
• Graduate School
• ELP Handbook
• University of Utah Catalog
• University of Utah Academic Calendar

Department Information

• ELP Department Student Handbook