Statement of Purpose Instructions

Introduction

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is required for admission consideration. The SOP will help the admission panel better understand you, your experiences, your readiness to complete doctoral study, and how you will add value to the cohort. Provide relevant information that demonstrates your commitment to educational leadership in rural and diverse organizations and communities.

Submit a statement of purpose expressing the applicant’s professional trajectory, career goals, the value of rural and diverse educational experiences in life, and reasons for pursuing a doctoral degree at this time. The Statement of Purpose will be evaluated as a writing sample.

Format

Use approximately 750 to 1500 words, 1.5-3 pages of single spaced (3-6 pages of double-spaced), and 12-point font to concisely inform the admission panel of your exceptional promise for doctoral study. The Statement of Purpose MUST be submitted as a PDF file.

Usage

In addition to learning more about your suitability as a doctoral candidate in the doctoral program at SAU, the Statement of Purpose serves as your writing sample. Demonstrate succinct, engaging, professional writing competencies.

Content

The following Education Preparation Provider Advance Program Competencies (EPPAPC) set the minimum standard for admission into the program. As a guide to completing your SOP, refer to the EPPAPC. In addition, include background information such as contributions to your field, future professional goals, and how this program fits your professional aspirations.

Education Preparation Provider Advance Program Competencies

G1. Academic Responsibility Candidate participates fully in course activities and meets all deadlines. Candidate is receptive to constructive criticism, and accepts and adjusts performance accordingly. Candidate demonstrates self-reflective practices.

G2. Collaboration Candidate successfully collaborates with others.

G3. Diverse Perspective Candidate seeks to understand multiple perspectives.

G4. Professional Ethics Candidate demonstrates adherence to codes of ethics and professional standards. Candidate demonstrates respect for the profession, school and self.

G5. Professional Maturity Candidate consistently maintains composure and appropriate behavior regardless of circumstance. Candidate demonstrates initiative by anticipating and solving problems. Candidate demonstrates fluidity in their learning process.