This program is designed for applicants who already hold a Master’s degree whose interests for advanced study and research in education do not fall within existing Ed.D. programs. It is appropriate only for those applicants whose interests are well developed and who present a focused proposal for study and research that can be supported by the University’s resources. An Individually Designed Ed.D. may be planned in one of two ways:

1. The applicant may draw upon an existing doctoral concentration in the College and another graduate concentration in the College or University.
2. The applicant may draw upon two or more areas within the College of Education and Human Development that do not presently offer doctoral programs but that offer master’s level programs (combining them, as appropriate, with study in a graduate program outside of the College.)

In either case, the program is expected to offer a strong base in doctoral level coursework in addition to the dissertation. A 21 credit hour common core providing a substantial portion of that base includes:

1. Educational Foundations
• EDH 500 Social Context of Education
• EDH 662 Philosophy of Education
• EPT 522 Advanced Educational Psychology
2. Research Methodology
• EDS 521 Statistical Methods in Educational Research
• EDS 571 Introduction to Qualitative Research
• EDG 595 Educational Research

And either/or

• EDS 522 Statistical Methods in Educational Research II
• EDU 690 Topics: Advanced Qualitative Research

Applicants have major responsibility for defining and initiating study before admission, a process that must continue through matriculation. In addition, qualified faculty representing the projected field of study must initially express a commitment to sponsor and direct the applicant’s work.

Initial inquiries and a request for detailed guidelines regarding this program should be made to Dr. Anne Pooler, Graduate Coordinator, College of Education, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, (207) 581-2444. Applicants interested in assistantships and financial aid are advised to begin the application process one year in advance of matriculation. Those inquiring will receive all materials necessary to complete the application process.