Upon acceptance into the doctoral program, you may meet with your interim advisor to discuss possible waiver or substitution of courses based on prior coursework. Keep in mind that your advisor’s main responsibility is to set you up for success in this advanced program. They will work with you to ensure that you build core competencies related to your proposed dissertation topic and will recommend courses that support your academic journey.

Submit letters of recommendation preferably from an academic advisor/university professor and supervisors/employers. Letters of recommendation should address the applicant’s potential to succeed as a graduate student in the PhD in Education program. Letters should be:

• On organizational letterhead

• Include the relationship to the applicant and the length of time reference has known the applicant

• Describe knowledge of and experience with the applicant in regard to his/her research and/or leadership skills

Letters can address the following areas, as appropriate:

• Academic abilities, including quality of written expression

• Work ethic / Quality of work

• Ability to communicate and collaborate with others

• Applicant’s potential to be an educational researcher and/or leader

Time to completion will vary by candidate, however, most candidates finish between 5-7 years. All graduate degrees at the University of Hawaii must be completed within 7 years.

This program is not available online.

Yes. Classes are typically offered during the evening hours of 4:30 – 7pm or are offered online to accommodate working professionals. Some programs offer coursework during the summer when the K-12 school session is on summer break.