Admission Requirements

In addition to the criteria listed below, applicants must also meet general graduate admission requirements .

All application materials need to be sent to the Office of Graduate Admissions by January 15th. A completed application form and required fee.

1. All undergraduate and graduate transcripts. Evidence of a master’s degree in early childhood or related field. Transcripts must include at least one introductory course in statistics.
2. Two letters of recommendation, which should come from individuals who can assess the applicant’s academic preparation for advanced graduate work
3. Scores on the Graduate Record Examination Combined Aptitude Test (GRE). All students must submit the general GRE scores even if they have a master’s degree. We do not accept the MATs.  
4. For international students, a minimum TOEFL score of 600 (paper), 250 (computer based), or 100 (Internet based), with a minimum score of 23 on the speaking section or an IELTS score of 7.0.
5. Short [3-5 page] writing sample: Any substantial piece of academic writing of which the applicant is the sole author  
6. Statement of purpose [1500 words maximum] that addresses the following questions:

• What are your career objectives?
• How will a PhD in Early Childhood Education and Care advance those objectives?
• In what ways does the UMass Boston Early Childhood Education and Care program address your particular academic, career, and personal goals?
• What professional, personal, and academic experiences or strengths have especially equipped you for the challenges of pursuing a doctorate?
• What research issues are you interested in pursuing at UMass Boston? Which professor(s) would you like to work with in this program?

7. A copy of your résumé (or curriculum vitae) indicating all education and work experience.