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Doctorate Degree Programs in Education

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Do I need a Master’s degree to apply to this program?

  • Yes.

2. When is the application deadline?

  • May 1st - Priority Deadline; June 1st - Final Deadline
  • We work on rolling admissions.  Once an application is complete it will be reviewed for admission into the program; this process typically takes about 3-4 weeks to complete. 
  • If an application is submitted after the deadline, it will be reviewed on a space-available basis.  If there is no space-available, the applicant will be considered for the following year.

3. How long does the program take to complete?

  • 3 to 4 years.

4. How much does the program cost?

  • Please call the Graduate School of Education and Psychology to discuss costs and available financial aid.
    Current information about program costs, financial aid, scholarships, etc., can also be obtained by attending an Information Meeting online or at a local campus.

5. What is the required GPA?

  • 3.0

6. Do I have to take the GRE and the MAT or just one?

  • You need to take one. The GRE, the GMAT or the MAT.

7. What’s the difference between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.?

  • The distinction between the two degrees is: The Ph.D. is research oriented and the Ed.D. is oriented towards educational practice and the application of theory and research.

8. What is the maximum amount of time I can take to complete a program?

  • Eight years.

9. How often will I be in class?

  • ELAP students begin their program at the Malibu Campus with a four day retreat in July. The students meet face-to-face three times a term throughout the two years of coursework at the West Los Angeles Campus and for three weekdays during the July session in the summer term. Monthly face-to-face meeting times are Friday 12-9PM, Saturday 8AM to 5PM, and Sunday 12-4:30PM.

10. On what campus will I be taking my classes?

  • Classes are held in West Los Angeles, Malibu California, online and one to two professional conferences (locations TBD).

For more information, please contact:
Education Recruitment at (310) 568-5622 or


Many programs offer rolling admission, and students can enter in the fall, spring, and summer sessions.