Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D). in Education with a Concentration in Educational Policy and Theory
(ISIS code: AT1)

This program offers an interdisciplinary course of study spanning the domains of educational thought, such as the history, sociology, and philosophy of education, and educational policy studies--which is grounded in the disciplines of economics and law, and addresses such topics as the assessment of educational policies and decision procedures, and the policy implications of new research findings and court decisions. The structure of the program permits a wide range of specializations at the dissertation and pre dissertation stages, while providing a suitably broad preparation in the various methods of conceptual-analytic research. The program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis but a minimum of one year of residency is required.

Requirements

I. Entry-level Courses
(Up to 30 credits)

Entry-level or advanced coursework in education or related fields, up to 30 credits can be transferred into the program from previous graduate work.

II. Research Methods Courses
(9 credits)

ED 506 Concepts and Issues in Social Science Research (formerly titled Doctoral Research Methods)
ED 504 Quantitative Research Methods I
ED 507 Qualitative Research Methods

Learn more about Research Methods Experiences for Ph.D. students.

III. Program Core
(Minimum of 12 credits)

To be chosen with the approval of the advisor:
One course in philosophy of education
One course in education law
One course in history of education
One course in economics of education

IV. Electives

Choose other courses with your advisor to help you develop content and research methods expertise to prepare for a dissertation on a topic addressing educational thought and policy.

V. Research Apprenticeship
(Up to 6 credits)

VI. Dissertation Research
(30 credits)

VII. Additional Requirements/Milestones:

• Successful completion of a portfolio within the first two years in the program
• Successful completion of research apprenticeship/second year paper
• Successful completion of comprehensive exams
• Successful defense of the dissertation
• Residency requirement: two successive semesters (fall/spring or spring/fall) of full-time study (12 credits a semester or 9 credits a semester if holding an assistantship)

Total Credit Hours: 90

Go to Educational Leadership Department Course Listings.