Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Studies

This integrated interdisciplinary doctorate addresses changes in the character and delivery of public education, teacher education, and educational research through the study of three related disciplines in Curriculum, Educational Technology, and Cultural and Educational Policy Studies. The program addresses the following critical issues facing education in the 21st century: 1) the increasing role of technology in learning, instructional design, curriculum development, assessment, and pedagogy; and 2) the influence of societal trends in demographics, economics, and politics on the structure and culture of schools. The program serves a variety of professionals who wish to advance their careers in higher education as teacher educators and researchers, as well as curriculum directors, program evaluators and consultants in schools. Graduates are prepared with the necessary knowledge, skills, and understanding to: assist students, teachers, and policy makers to function in a knowledge society; implement teaching and learning strategies; engage in systematic assessment, evaluation, and research; and develop strategies to address the learning needs of changing populations. Degree requirements The PhD in Educational Studies requires a minimum of 91 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree with a 24-credit research core and a 12-credit Educational Studies core consisting of one course from each of the three disciplinary areas: Curriculum, Educational Technology, and Cultural and Educational Policy Studies. The fourth course is a capstone doctoral seminar. An additional 21 credits in one of the disciplines completes the student’s area of specialization, and an additional 12 credits in each of the other disciplines provide for two directed cognates. Completion of the dissertation earns 10 credits.