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. Mellindy Gregory
Mini Biography:
Dr. Gregory is a seasoned social work practitioner, educator, and leader with more than a decade of experience serving diverse populations across clinical, community, and federal settings. Dr. Gregory has been teaching as an adjunct faculty member since 2017, bringing a compassionate, learner‑centered approach to graduate‑level education that emphasizes clarity, empathy, and academic integrity.
Dr. Gregory entered the social work field after completing her bachelors degree in 2009 from Western Kentucky University and have since built a broad professional portfolio that includes trauma‑informed care, mental health services, and support for vulnerable and underserved communities after completing her Master’s degree in Social Work from Western Kentucky University. Dr. Gregory’s passion for trauma‑informed practice continues to shape both her teaching and leadership philosophy.
In 2022, Dr. Gregory earned her Doctorate degree from the University of KY, with a concentration of administration and leadership expanding her scholarly focus on ethical practice, student engagement, and the development of supportive learning environments specifically in rural communities on training and professional development approaches. Dr. Gregory currently serves in a leadership role within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where she has been employed full‑time since 2021 and in leadership since 2023. Dr. Gregory’s work at the VA reflects her commitment to service, advocacy, and the well‑being of veterans and their families.
Across her academic and professional roles, Dr. Gregory remains dedicated to fostering inclusive, compassionate spaces that promote growth, resilience, and long‑term success for both students and the community she serves.
PhD, University of Kentucky
MSW, Western Kentucky University
BS, Western Kentucky University
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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