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. Lakeita Arrington-Judkins, affectionally known as Dr. J, stands as a beacon of inspiration, embodying a commitment to education, community service, and mental health advocacy. . Dr. Judkins involvement in social change consist of combining case management, social services, and specialized mental health assistance, while addressing the multifaceted needs of non-profits, empowering them to fulfill their missions with greater efficacy. Dr. Judkins has found that providing such support has led to tangible improvements in the efficiency and sustainability of the non-profit sector, resulting in lasting positive outcomes for countless individuals and communities.
Dr. Judkins utilizes her expertise to drive positive change. Her academic journey includes a Doctoral degree in Social Work from Walden University, specializing in Addictions; a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in Military Families; and a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Auburn University.
Dr. Judkins demonstrates unwavering dedication in her current role as a Crisis Responder assisting military families and civilians throughout the world. Her responsibilities encompass implementing suicide and mental health crisis prevention strategies, conducting assessments, and providing essential support to veterans and their families.
DSW, Walden University
MSW, University of Southern California
BSW, Auburn University
Girls Inc., Board Member -
Urban League of the River Valley, Board Member -
Junior League of Columbus, Member -
Piedmont Regional Auxiliary, Board of Directors -
Arrington-Judkins, L. (2021). Burnout Among Child Protective Services Social Workers in Georgia.
Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Walden University is a member of Covista https://www.covista.com/ | Walden University is certified to operate by SCHEV
© 2026 Walden University LLC. All rights reserved.
Legal & Consumer Info | Website Terms and Conditions | Cookie Policy | Cookie settings