The Doctor of Philosophy in Evaluation is a collaborative effort of four colleges – Arts and Sciences, Education and Human Development, Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Health and Human Services - to address society's growing need for Ph.D.-level evaluation specialists who can serve effectively in a variety of disciplines. Society's organizations need evaluation professionals to identify and assign priorities to unmet needs; assess progress and identify areas requiring improvement; assess costs and seek ways to make services more efficient and cost-effective; document and assess outcome; provide credible reports to accrediting/oversight bodies; and, in general, maintain accountability.
Selection criteria for admission applications are academic ability, ability to handle the nontechnical aspects of evaluation, a strong desire to become a "thought leader" in evaluation, a specific interest in the interdisciplinary setting we offer (rather than simply an interest in one of the cognate areas offered), a desire to be challenged, a commitment to (and interest in) being engaging in hands-on learning in evaluation, and ability to follow instructions.
Graduating students will receive their degree from one of the four participating colleges. Each student will tailor their program of study to meet her or his assessed needs and interests, drawing from all courses and other learning experiences available in the four colleges. While each specific course in a student's program may vary from another student's, each student's curriculum will be designed to ensure that the student meets a common set of core competencies in evaluation.
A major focus of the interdisciplinary program will be to develop thought leaders in evaluation, individuals with deep knowledge of evaluation theory, methodology, and practice, with superior skills in practical and critical thinking, and a knack for seeing opportunities for innovation and improvement.
To access the online application for admission, go to: wmich.edu/apply/graduate. To access a complete list of admission requirements in pdf format, go to wmich.edu/grad/admissions/ click on "Doctorate" and "Evaluation (Ph.D.)" from the drop down menus.
Admission Requirements
All information is to be submitted only within the online application system.
- Application deadlines: Fall and Spring Semesters: June 1; Applications must be received by January 15 for consideration for graduate assistantship for the following academic year.
- A resume or curriculum vita (CV) is required.
- This program requires the General GRE.
- Note: International applicants may have to provide evidence of English language proficiency. More information can be found within the online application.
- This program requires three recommendations. Please send email requests for such recommendations from within the online system.
- Provide a written statement that covers the following information and attach it within the online application: Summarize your experiences in academic, professional, research, creative, or scholarly activities and indicate how these experiences make you an ideal candidate for graduate study in your selected program. Also address how these activities align with the strengths of your chosen program and faculty, and with your professional goals, including future job positions. This statement (double-spaced and between 500 – 1500 words) should demonstrate your communication skills and writing competence.
- Previous written work: provide one (1) writing sample, to be attached within the online application.
- Other program materials: Complete this program's supplemental application program form at: wmich.edu/grad/admissions/dept-forms/eval-int-reqs.pdf, save it using your last name in the document name, and then submit the saved document within the online application.
Additional information: If you have questions, please review the website at wmich.edu/evaluationphd/ for program and contact information.