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.
Dr. Kimberly Mayes is the Founder and Clinical Director at Essence Therapy & Wellness Center, where she supports clients with individual therapy, coaching, corporate training, crisis intervention, and culturally responsive interventions. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Florida and her Master of Social Work degree with a focus on Children and Families from Clark Atlanta University. Dr. Mayes graduated with a Doctor of Social Work degree from Simmons University, where her research centered on implementing culturally responsive interventions for BIPOC populations.
Dr. Mayes has been a social worker since 2007 and has been involved in adult learning since 2017. At Walden University, she serves as contributing faculty for the BSW program, introductory social work courses. Dr. Mayes has previously taught MSW field instruction and individual theory courses. With over 15 years of professional experience, Dr. Mayes has held leadership roles and worked in hospital, educational, and non-profit settings. She holds clinical licenses in Texas, Georgia, and Florida.
Dr. Mayes's primary research interests include culturally responsive interventions, mental health support for BIPOC communities, and effective therapy methods for diverse populations. Her professional background includes extensive experience in clinical social work, therapy, and wellness coaching. She has been affiliated with several professional organizations such as NASW & National Association of Black Social Workers and has made significant contributions to the field of social work by developing training programs for BIPOC clinicians and serving as a volunteer for the CSWE APM Proposal Review Board & the CSWE Doctoral MFP Review Board. Her major accomplishments include founding a successful therapy practice for BIPOC clients and developing specialized interventions to support marginalized communities.
DSW, Simmons University
MA, Clark Atlanta University
BA, University of Florida
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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