Doctor of Education with a major in School Improvement

University of West Georgia
Degree Level Doctoral
Total Credit Hours 60

Program Description

The online Ed.D. program in School Improvement offers a unique opportunity for educators looking for an interdisciplinary, inquiry-based doctoral program that prepares graduates to become the next generation of change agents. Our mission is to develop educational professionals who initiate systemic and sustainable improvement in schools. Graduates will strategically and collaboratively plan, design, implement, and document the impact of educational improvements that promote and increase the academic achievement and social development of all students.

There are several unique features of the Doctor of Education in School Improvement. These include the following:

  • All coursework is delivered through an asynchronous online environment, using a wide variety of instructional technologies.
  • Students are required to come to the Carrollton, GA campus for an intensive two day orientation during the first summer, and participate in an EDSI Virtual Dissertation and Research Development Series.
  • The program may be completed in three years; however, many students take four years or more to complete.
  • Faculty are nationally recognized, committed to school improvement, and understand the needs of adult learners.

Admissions Information

Thank you for your interest in the University of West Georgia. Admission to the Doctor of School Improvement Degree is competitive; consequently students are urged to submit the strongest possible application materials. All applicants, including previous UWG students, must complete all steps of the application process as outlined below. Only applications completed by the deadline will be considered. The department will begin reviewing applications after the deadline, and will contact those applicants selected for interviews within 6-8 weeks.

Step 1–Online Application, Official GRE Scores, and International Students

  1. Complete the online application for graduate studies. The online application requires a $40.00 non-refundable application fee.
  2. A cumulative minimum graduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for all graduate course work.
  3. Send official GRE scores (Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing) to the University of West Georgia via ETS. Scores must be no more than 5 years old. No Exceptions. Minimum required scores are
    1. Verbal Reasoning - 151
    2. Quantitative Reasoning - 145
    3. Analytical Writing - 4.0.
  4. International applicants must follow additional procedures of the UWG International Office.

Step 2- Submit supplemental items

What is to be submitted?

  1. Writing Sample: Submit previously written work (5-10 pages in length) that you feel demonstrates your writing abilities. Written work can include papers from graduate degree work or work reports.
  2. Three Letters of Recommendation: Electronic Recommendation Request forms will be available after your application has been submitted online. At least one of the letters must be from a current or past supervisor.
  3. Vitae: A vitae listing education and employment history, experience with school improvement, and awards and recognitions. Provide your current and complete contact information, including an active e-mail address.
  4. Official Transcripts: Request official transcripts from all institution(s) that you have attended, both undergraduate and graduate, to be sent to Graduate Admissions. Electronic official transcripts may be sent to graduate@westga.edu directly from the sending institution. All applicants must have earned a Master's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution.
  5. Essay: Complete a 750-1,000 word essay that discusses your personal goals related to school improvement. In your essay, include any literature (e.g., research article) that has informed your professional practice or otherwise influenced you. (Include appropriate APA citations.)

If you are mailing any items, the address is:

UWG Graduate Admissions

Mandeville Hall
1601 Maple Street
Carrollton, GA 30118

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Finalists will be selected for a telephone or virtual interview.

Thanks again for your interest and best of luck!

State Authorization and Professional Licensure Disclaimer

Not all programs are available to residents in all states. Please check the institution's State Authorization and Professional Licensure website(s) to ensure you reside in an authorized state.

Program Accreditation

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges