How to apply for the PHD program

Dear prospective doctoral student,

I am very pleased you are considering applying to the doctoral program in the Department of Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences, one of eight departments in the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services at Utah State University. Our faculty members are among the finest in the world and our students go on to successful careers in higher education, business, and government.

The department is a diverse community, comprised of many cultures, nationalities, and academic interests. It is our belief that graduate study is a time during which real intellectual development should occur. This experience will call for immersion in the learning process in order to take advantage of the rich resources found here. Current students are deeply involved in classes and collaborative activities with professors and peers.

I invite you to explore our School and University. At these web sites,

you will find information about the doctoral program, courses, faculty, and application forms. Applications are due 31 January for admission to the following Fall semester.

I also invite you to look at the surrounding beauty of Logan and Northern Utah. USU is a great place to study, live, and play!

In reviewing doctoral applications, we look closely at the following:

  • G.P.A. We expect a minimum of 3.0.
  • GRE Scores. We expect a minimum of 40th percentile on the verbal and quantitative components.
  • Letters of recommendation. We especially look for letters that speak to your promise as a scholar.
  • Undergraduate and/or Master’s level preparation. Please note that doctoral applicants without a Master’s in Instructional Technology, Learning Sciences, or a closely related field must complete the Masters’ core courses (12 credits).
  • Your personal essay. Here, we expect you to describe your research interests and/or agenda, how your previous experience will contribute to your doctoral plans, why you are choosing to apply to our department, and why you think your application is a strong one.
Finally, we encourage you to visit Logan, USU, and our department. Faculty will be pleased to meet with you to discuss our program and research activities.

Mimi Recker

Department Head & Professor

More about the Letter of Intent / Personal Essay

See also this note about the letter of intent from the special education department: "Your letter must detail your specific reasons for wanting to attend graduate school, and also list and describe experiences and qualifications that you believe prepared you for advanced study. Letters of intent are considered a vital element of the selection process and are carefully reviewed. Therefore, we recommend that you type your letter and attach it to your application. Finally, letters characterized by clear organization, attention to requested information, and mechanical accuracy allow selection committee readers to better evaluate your request for graduate training."