Doctoral Programs

Students may apply for admission to the doctoral programs at any time throughout the academic year. In addition to University requirements the following criteria are required for admission to the Literacy Studies doctoral programs:

1. Evidence of three years of full-time teaching experience, or the equivalent.
2. Master’s degree in education, or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.2.
3. Official copies of transcripts of all post-secondary degrees.
4. A current resume or curriculum vitae.
5. Three letters of recommendation, including at least one from a school administrator or former professor. Hofstra graduates may ask for a recommendation from no more than one member of the Hofstra faculty.
6. A carefully written Statement of Purpose (minimum of 500 words in length) indicating the applicant’s reasons for pursuing advanced scholarship in literacy studies at Hofstra. The statement should include the applicant’s academic and professional history and a statement of academic and professional goals.
7. A writing sample (e.g., a college paper, a published article, or any other example of scholarship). The paper should demonstrate how the applicant works with a body of literature and builds an argument. Typically, the sample paper is from a university course completed within the last five years.
8. An interview with two members of the literacy studies faculty to discuss the applicant’s academic, professional, and research experiences and interests.
9. GRE scores may be required after an initial assessment of an application.

Program admissions reflect the belief that no single criterion reliably predicts applicants’ potential for success in the program. Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply if they do not meet one or more criteria but believe that other aspects of their experience might compensate. However, since many factors are considered in the selection process, meeting application criteria does not ensure admission to the program.

International doctoral applicants should consult with the Department of Specialized Programs in Education when applying. The doctoral program in literacy studies requires an Internet-based TOEFL (IBT) score of 80 or higher, a paper-based TOEFL score of 550 or higher, or a computerized TOEFL score of 213 or higher. Others with strong academic credentials are encouraged to apply.

Application files are assessed on the basis of the information contained within the file. No decisions can be made until all the required information has been provided by the applicant. Consideration is given to a combination of criteria, including:

1. Demonstration of academic standing
2. Professional experience
3. Potential to pursue and benefit from advanced graduate studies.