Doctor of Education
Doctoral candidates must hold a master’s degree or its academic equivalent from an accredited institution. Students entering the doctoral program with advanced standing—where that option is available (example: two master’s degrees or a master’s and a CAGS)—will be required to complete a minimum of 32 graduate-level (500-level or higher) credits. Specific requirements relative to the selection of courses, seminars, and research or independent study are determined by the student’s department of concentration. Departments generally require a number of courses beyond the minimum.
- Each EdD candidate must complete a schoolwide core requirement of a four credit course (SED ED 700 series) beginning in September of the first academic year of matriculation.
- Every doctoral candidates is required to take at least 4 courses (16 credits) in research beyond those taken at the master’s level to include one course in quantitative research, one course in qualitative research: RS 654 – Educational Inquiry and Proposal Writing, and RS 750 – Advanced Research Seminar.
- Every doctoral candidate must spend a minimum of two consecutive semesters in residence at Boston University. Residence is defined as registration for a minimum of 12 credit hours at the University during each of two consecutive semesters. Summer terms may be considered one semester.
- A formal application for a comprehensive examination must be filed with the department chair and faculty advisor. The examination must be completed successfully.
- Each candidate must demonstrate the ability to make a significant contribution in his or her field and to report this contribution successfully in a doctoral dissertation.
- For doctoral-level registration requirements, refer to the Policies & Procedures for SED Graduate Students section.
