View our EdD Early Childhood specialization completion requirements
Minimum degree requirements:
60 quarter credits
- Core courses (50 cr.)
- Capstone (10 cr.)
Minimum degree requirements:
60 quarter credits
Courses
In the EdD Early Childhood Education specialization, you’ll build skills and progress toward your final capstone project in every course.
Disclaimers: Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the Chief Academic Officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the Dissertation Guidebook.
For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-937-8785.
Courses
PhD completion program courses help you return to doctoral work, match with an advisor, and stay on track to finishing your dissertation.
Disclaimers: Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the Chief Academic Officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the Dissertation Guidebook.
For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-937-8785.
Courses
Develop the skills and confidence you need to tackle complex managerial challenges, contribute new knowledge, or teach at the graduate level.
Courses
Develop the skills and confidence needed for complex managerial challenges and research with Walden’s ACBSP-accredited PhD program.
Discover career opportunities in your area that match your interests.
Discover career opportunities in your area that match your interests.
Joshua Dalessandro is a science educator with a background in biological sciences and chiropractic. Since 2015, he has been teaching undergraduate courses to help prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals. Dr. Dalessandro earned a Master of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Clemson University. He also holds a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Sherman College of Chiropractic and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
Dr. Dalessandro’s formal field of study and teaching centers on biological sciences, with a particular emphasis on anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and pathophysiology. His teaching experience spans a variety of formats, including online, hybrid, and face-to-face instruction, allowing him to effectively engage diverse student populations, particularly adult learners in higher education.
Before transitioning fully into academia, Dr. Dalessandro practiced as a Doctor of Chiropractic, where he focused on patient-centered care and promoting natural approaches to health and wellness. This clinical experience continues to inform his teaching by providing real-world applications of scientific concepts.
In addition, Dr. Dalessandro teaches general education science courses for undergraduate students at Walden University, where he is committed to fostering a supportive, engaging, and student-centered online learning environment. His teaching philosophy emphasizes accessibility, encouragement, and the development of critical thinking skills.
Throughout his career, Dr. Dalessandro has demonstrated a strong commitment to student success, curriculum development, and academic leadership, combining his scientific expertise with a passion for teaching and mentorship.
MS, Clemson University
DC, Sherman College of Chiropractic
BS, University of North Carolina Wilmington
Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
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