College of Education

Information

Admission

Are you a candidate for doctoral study?

Our program is designed for students with strong academic backgrounds and a dedication to the study of early childhood. Doctoral students are expected to work both independently and in collaboration with faculty to pursue rigorous research agendas, publish in scholarly journals, and present widely at national conferences. Doctoral students are also expected to read widely and deeply, to become active members in learned societies, and to write academic texts effectively.

Criteria for Admission

  • Strong Academic Record
    • Transcripts from accredited institutions with minimum 3.5 GPA in Masters Program.
    • Education: Earned Masters Degree in Early Childhood or related field.
    • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores for Verbal, Quantitative, and Writing in the 40th percentile or higher. GRE must be taken within 5 years of the application.
    • Three Academic References
  • Research Experience
    • Writing Samples/Publications: Submit two academic manuscripts that demonstrate your writing and analysis skills. Course projects are acceptable.
    • Vita
  • Relevant Professional Experience
    • Personal statement of academic history and goals
    • Educational or professional experience (minimum 2 years working directly with young children)

Application Process

  • Complete Online Application at www.grad.usf.edu.
  • Submit GRE scores and transcripts to the Graduate School.
  • Notify the department of your intention to apply to the program and submit supporting documentation to: Ms. Lisa Adkins.
  • Upon receipt of the complete application (i.e., Graduate School Application and additional requirements), the Advanced Graduate Program Coordinator reviews the materials to determine the applicant’s eligibility.
  • Eligible applicants are invited for an interview with the Early Childhood Faculty. The faculty makes one of three recommendations: acceptance into the program, conditional acceptance with suggestions for prerequisite courses or experiences, or denial. Applicants will be notified regarding the status of their application within two weeks of the interview.

Admission Deadlines

Students are admitted into the program in the fall only. The deadline for applications is February 15.

The admission process is time-consuming. The process begins online through the Graduate School and ends at the department level with the admission decision made by faculty. If you are interested in applying, please begin the process at least one year prior to admission because applications are not reviewed in the summer.

Students whose applications are received by December 15th of the preceding year, will have the greatest opportunity for scholarships and fellowships. The deadlines for these awards are earlier than the final application deadline.