Doctoral FAQ

CSP offers advanced standing to students who have already earned an Ed.S. degree. CSP also accepts post-masters transfer credits that align with program and course outcomes. An Enrollment Counselor will outline which credits are eligible for transfer before you begin the program.

With continuous enrollment, it is possible to complete the program in 3 years. The typical timeline to complete the degree will vary by student and depends upon the transfer credit awarded. The University’s curricular structure is designed to support student completion of the dissertation through the seminar courses and by embedding dissertation activities throughout the curriculum.

Each course is delivered in an online format for your convenience. Optional synchronous sessions are available to attend to delve deeper into the course content with the instructor and peers. Faculty members are available to meet with you in person or online to support your learning.

Students completing the doctorate program may seek to meet the competency requirements to apply for their Minnesota administrative license. The requirements include coursework, completion of internship credits, a digital portfolio, and a situational observation interview, with specific requirements being outlined by your academic advisor and CSP’s Ed.S. program director upon expressing an interest in this option.

Students will work with their academic advisor to develop a course sequence that will support their academic and professional goals. All courses, with the exception of the seminar courses, are delivered over eight weeks and are three credits. The seminar courses are 1 credit each and delivered over the 16-week semester, designed to support student progress on their dissertation.

Yes! With a focus on leadership development and performance, this degree supports numerous career paths in educational and organizational arenas. Our students pursue positions in schools, for-profit corporations, non-profit organizations, military, and government organizations. Specific industries represented by current students and alumni include:

• • K-12 School Leadership
  • Higher Education
  • Healthcare
  • Business
  • Law Enforcement
  • Private Consulting

Yes! The program has been designed for the working professional at various career stages. Whether just beginning or a seasoned professional, our focus on applications-based learning will equip you to immediately put into practice the skills you are learning in your classes.

Yes, a completed dissertation is required to earn the doctorate degree. The completed dissertation is centered on a topic of interest you identify, with support from a dissertation chair and committee members who are focused on your success. The university offers different types of dissertations, including traditional research, a needs assessment and program or resource development, and program or resource assessment. The dissertation should be a topic of interest and an area that will support you in pursuing your professional goals.