PhD in Educational Studies: FAQ
Application Process and Requirements
Q: How do I determine whether my background is a good fit with the BU Wheelock PhD in Educational Studies program?
Doctoral students come to the Educational Studies program at BU Wheeelock from a wide range of backgrounds. Some candidates have teaching experience, many have research experience, and others have diverse experiences. We are looking for candidates with a with a strong commitment to social justice and an interest in research. Strong candidates will match well with one or more faculty member’s interests.
Q: Am I able to enter your doctoral program directly after completing my bachelor’s degree?
Yes! A master’s degree is not required to be eligible for the PhD.
Q: I am getting (or have received) a master’s degree and want to continue on to doctoral studies. What is different about the application process to a doctoral program?
Most often, the master’s degree is a professional practice degree while the doctoral program emphasizes research and the design, implementation, and evaluation of research-based practice. Our PhD programs are focused heavily on research with the goal of preparing our students to enter academia, research centers, or positions that design and manage state/federal policies.
Q: Where can I find out more information on entrance requirements such as average GPA and English proficiency (for international students) scores for applicants?
The application documents can be found here. While we do not set a minimum GPA, we are looking for students who demonstrate the skills needed to effectively manage a rigorous and challenging doctoral training program. High undergraduate and graduate GPA generally indicate both your commitment to learning as well as academic skills. The GRE is not required for the PhD in Educational Studies.
For international students, English speaking and writing skills are important for doctoral training and therefore the TOEFL or other accepted English proficiency assessment may be required. Learn more about English proficiency requirements.
Q: Can I obtain a fee waiver for the application?
If the application fee is a financial burden, please request a waiver using this form.
Q: What makes a strong candidate for receiving an interview for your doctoral programs?
We interview doctoral students who demonstrate a: strong social justice orientation and therefore enter with clear understanding of their own cultural background and privilege as well as a deep appreciation and value for cultural diversity; clear engagement in research topics that align with one or more faculty interests; and clear career and life goals articulates the need for a doctoral degree.
Q: How are students selected for the PhD in Educational Studies?
Selection of students from our PhD applicants is a competitive process. Applicants are evaluated based upon:
- Academic performance in their previous degree program(s)
- Intellectual ‘fit’ between student interests and program goals and faculty research
- Readiness for doctoral training
- Research and professional experience
- Career goals consistent with academic and/or research careers
Close mentoring of students is an important aspect of our program. Thus, when reviewing applications, care is taken to identify students with interests that overlap enough with faculty interests so that an effective mentoring relationship can be provided.
Program Faculty
Q: How do I find out about professors’ research interests and areas of specialization?
Begin with the Faculty Profiles. Once you find one or more faculty whose research are a good match to yours, we encourage you to email them to discuss your interests.
Q: Am I required to select a faculty mentor before I apply to the program?
No—in fact, students in the PhD in Educational Studies begin with an advising committee so that they may learn about the research of multiple faculty members. You do not need to select one specific mentor before you apply. However, we encourage you to read the research profiles of the faculty within the program and to reach out to faculty whose interests align with yours.
Funding, Teaching, and Research
Q: What type of funding is available to students in the Educational Studies PhD program?
PhD students at Boston University receive free tuition to complete their required coursework as well as a stipend for five years (including summer support for the first four years). Learn more about PhD funding.
Q: Will I be involved in research?
Yes. As you enter the program you will be expected to participate in 20 hours of research per week throughout your time in the doctoral program. There will be times when your weekly hours will be reduced due to serving as a teaching assistant or instructor of record.
Q: Will I be involved in teaching?
Yes. All students participate in at least three teaching experiences while they are doctoral students, which may include serving as a teaching fellow, a co-instructor, or instructor of record.
Additional Information
Q: How can I stay informed about admissions info sessions?
To be added to our mailing list and receive more information about upcoming events, fill out our contact form. For more information, visit Graduate Admissions or reach out to the Graduate Admissions Office at whegrad@bu.edu.