Applicants for the doctoral program are required to have:

1. A Master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education;
2. A minimum cumulative grade credit average of 3.0 for the Master's degree;
3. Formal academic experience in education and, preferably, psychology;
4. Basic or, preferably, intermediate skills in one (or more) technology, e.g., computer-based multimedia, web, or productivity tools; video
5. A combined minimum score of 1000 (verbal and quantitative) on the Graduate Record Examination;
6. International students: a minimum TOEFL score of 600 on the paper-based test, 260 on the computer-based test, or 100 on the internet-based test.
   

The following additional criteria will be used for all students, including those whose GPAs, TOEFL scores or academic background do not fully meet the expectations described above:

1. Professional Interests and Career Goals

   Applicants are expected to have a strong interest in professional education, and especially in the fields of learning, instruction, and the design and application of educational media and technology to support learning and instruction. They are expected to have a genuine interest in research and theory in these same areas. Applicants are expected to be able to articulate clearly a set of goals for which doctoral study in educational communication and technology is appropriate and desirable.

2. Knowledge of the Field of Educational Communication and Technology or Related Fields

   Several areas of knowledge support the design and application of educational media. Applicants should demonstrate knowledge, skills and a record of academic work in at least one relevant area, such as in teaching and instruction, learning, psychology, curriculum, communications, training, educational technology, or media design and production in a particular technology.

3. Professional Experience in the Field and/or Contribution to Related Fields

   Applicants are expected to have professional work experience in educational communication and technology, or in related fields, and to have made a significant contribution to the achievement of goals in the workplace.

4. Strong and Varied Communication Skills

   Applicants must have strong verbal and written skills. They must be able to express ideas in a clear and coherent manner, listen carefully and respond directly and thoughtfully to questions posed. Good interpersonal skills are essential. Applicants must evidence the ability to communicate in multiple symbol systems and technological contexts.
   

5. Mature Professional Attributes

   Applicants are expected to show evidence of goal orientation; initiative and self-direction; the ability to work independently and collaboratively; good organizational skills; and personal and professional commitment to the completion of the degree program.

6. Scholarship and Research Potential

   Applicants must demonstrate an interest in scholarly inquiry and research, an ability to identify and analyze significant problems in the field of mediated instruction, and to identify reasonable approaches to solutions. Applicants must demonstrate an ability and an interest in critical and creative inquiry and in the application of theory to practice in the field.