phd program for education

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

The Johns Hopkins School of Education’s full-time PhD program offers an individually tailored learning experience based on a student’s interest in finding solutions to pressing education problems. Select applicants receive full tuition and a stipend.

The School of Education will pause admission to the Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) program for the 2025-26 academic year while we add several programmatic improvements. The next intake for admission to the PhD program will be for students who want to matriculate in the Fall 2026 semester. The online application will open in August 2025 to begin accepting submissions, and the application completion deadline will be December 16, 2025. Please complete our Request for Information Form to receive updates and announcements for the next admission period.

The program provides rigorous interdisciplinary training that develops students’ abilities to conduct evidence-based research on real-world educational challenges. Instruction and mentorship emphasizes the development and evaluation of policies and practices that address real-world educational problems.

Students benefit from a one-to-one apprenticeship model that pairs exceptional interdisciplinary candidates with nationally acclaimed faculty mentors, along with engaging coursework, sophisticated methodological training, and cohort-based learning.

Questions? Please reach out and we’ll be in touch soon.

Learn about our PhD students.

Upcoming Admissions Events

Have questions about our degree programs, the application, or financial aid and costs? Join us for an inside look at a graduate experience defined by innovation and driven by evidence-based research. Learn more about your area of interest or career path, meet some of our faculty, and connect to the Johns Hopkins School of Education community. Check out our admissions events and register for a virtual information session today.

International Teaching & Global Leadership Alumni Panel

Education Policy Student Panel

Doctor of Education Student Panel

Core Faculty

Jennifer adams, phd.

Associate Professor Director, International Teaching and Global Leadership

Affiliation

Innovative Teaching & Leadership

International Teaching & Global Leadership

Robert Balfanz, PhD

Professor Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of Schools

Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership

Education Policy & Politics, Research, Evaluation & Assessment, Social Context of Education

Ashley Rogers Berner, PhD

Associate Professor Director, Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy

Institute for Education Policy, SOE Leadership

Curriculum Studies, Education Policy & Politics, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Rebecca Cruz, PhD

Assistant Professor

Center for Safe and Healthy Schools, Innovative Teaching & Leadership

Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education, Special Education

Marcia Davis, PhD

Associate Professor (Research) Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of Schools Director of Research, Baltimore Education Research Consortium

Learning & Instruction, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Norma L. Day-Vines, PhD

Counseling & Educational Studies

Counseling & Human Development

Hunter Gehlbach, PhD

Professor Faculty Lead, PhD Program

Advanced Studies in Education

Learning & Instruction, Measurement & Research Methodologies

Odis Johnson, Jr., PhD

Bloomberg Distinguished Professor Executive Director, Johns Hopkins Center for Safe and Healthy Schools Director, Institute in Critical Quantitative, Computational, and Mixed Methodologies

Center for Safe and Healthy Schools, SOE Leadership

Education Policy & Politics, Measurement & Research Methodologies, Social Context of Education

Richard Lofton, PhD

Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education

Douglas J. Mac Iver, PhD

Center for Social Organization of Schools

Curriculum Studies, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Martha Abele Mac Iver, PhD

Associate Professor Associate Dean of Research

Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Olivia Marcucci, PhD

Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Social Context of Education

Ebony McGee, PhD

Counseling & Human Development, Postsecondary Education, Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Stephen Morgan, PhD

Bloomberg Distinguished Professor

Measurement & Research Methodologies, Social Context of Education

Jonathan Plucker, PhD

Research Professor Faculty Lead, Master of Science in Education Policy

Education Policy & Politics, Gifted Education, Learning & Instruction

Eric Rice, PhD

Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Joshua C. Schuschke, PhD

Educational Technology

Alexandra Shelton, PhD

Learning & Instruction, Special Education

Angela R. Watson, PhD

Assistant Research Professor

Institute for Education Policy

Education Policy & Politics

Program Overview

With its goal of pursuing big ideas and sharing knowledge to address real-world challenges, Johns Hopkins University takes pride in its founding mission as the U.S.’s first research university. The full-time Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education at the Johns Hopkins School of Education embraces that tradition. We offer a world-class, research-focused program that prepares exceptional scholars to investigate and develop policies and practices that improve educational outcomes from pre-K through secondary school and beyond.

Students draw insights from different disciplines (e.g., educational psychology, learning sciences, sociology of education), synthesizing their knowledge to craft multidisciplinary, evidence-based approaches to address educational policies and practices — particularly those that can improve outcomes for historically underserved populations. Immersion in modern research methods — advanced statistical techniques, open science approaches, and data science — facilitates students’ capacities to argue for research-based educational reforms.

Students benefit from the mentorship of nationally acclaimed researchers in an apprenticeship model as well as collaborative learning opportunities from courses, research groups, and their cohort. Our graduates go on to careers in higher education as professors, policymakers, and influential scholars at research-intensive universities, institutes, and centers.

All PhD students at the School of Education are eligible for a fellowship for up to four years. The fellowship includes a yearly stipend and will cover tuition and fees. The fellowship also covers individual health, dental, and vision insurance. All PhD students must be registered full time and be in good academic standing every semester to continue to be eligible for their fellowship.

Through our PhD program, students acquire cutting-edge research skills that position them for tenure-track faculty positions in higher education, policymaking roles with state agencies or school systems, and leadership positions in educational research organizations.

• Research and Post Secondary Teaching
• University Professor
• University Researcher
• Policy Analyst

“ What set my experience apart was the chance to work with remarkable mentors who are not only impactful researchers in the field, but also genuinely care about me as a person.

College of Professional Studies

Northeastern University’s online Doctor of Education program provides experienced adult learners, working professionals, and scholar-practitioners from diverse backgrounds and perspectives with the practical knowledge and experience they need to transform the learning landscape. Students gain innovative approaches to create authentic change in their communities. The program was selected as the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate's Program of the Year for 2022-2023.

The Doctor of Education program is designed to be completed in three to four years of study—following a fast-paced quarter system in lieu of a traditional semester format. Students choose from five concentrations to create a curriculum that matches personal and professional interests. The program's dissertation in practice process will begin at the onset of your coursework as you identify your problem of practice and develop an action plan—incorporating cycles of data collection and analysis, collaboration, change work, and reflection—culminating in the dissemination of your action research findings. Our students come from diverse disciplines and professions, seeking more than just a degree. You'll gain a practical education that translates to your everyday working environment.

While all EdD courses can be completed online (except for hybrid courses in Seattle), annual in-person two-day residencies are held on campus. Residencies focus on networking and tools for career success and allow you to connect with faculty and fellow scholars to share knowledge and experience. You'll attend residencies* in your first and second years of the program at one of our campuses in Boston or Seattle.

The Northeastern Doctor of Education degree is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and was selected as Program of the Year by the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Program for 2022-2023.

More Details

Unique features.

• You will choose one of five concentrations—higher education administration, innovative teaching and learning, transformative school leadership, workplace learning, and integrative studies—to focus your studies and further customize your curriculum.
• You'll begin dissertation in practice work at the onset of your program. You'll select a compelling educational/organizational challenge and will be assigned a faculty advisor to support your research throughout the program.
• All coursework is online—providing flexibility for working professionals. Your residencies will be fulfilled in person*, at one of our campuses in Boston or Seattle.
• You'll learn alongside faculty practitioners—engaging with respected leaders who contribute to the field as authors, journal editors, school board members, bloggers, and podcasters.

*In-person participation in the residency is also available for international students.

Concentrations

• Higher Education Administration: The higher education administration concentration provides an opportunity for experienced higher education professionals to expand their previous understanding of practices within all sectors of postsecondary education—and also advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their understanding of the roles of colleges and universities in our society. Sectors examined include community colleges, four-year colleges, for-profit institutions, and research universities.
• Innovative Teaching and Learning: The innovative teaching and learning concentration focuses on transforming education through innovation, justice, and policy, by providing engaging opportunities for current and aspiring teaching and learning specialists working in various education spaces. The concentration focuses on teaching and learning both inside and outside the bounds of P-20 schools and focuses on developing and leading innovative curricula as well as professional development.
• Transformative School Leadership: The transformative school leadership concentration provides innovative opportunities for experienced education professionals who are current and aspiring leaders of early childhood centers, public or private schools, or school districts. The concentration prepares students to lead and transform educational spaces and be equipped to shape the needs of education in K-12, higher education, organizational contexts, and beyond.
• Workplace Learning: The workplace learning concentration helps professionals gain a deeper understanding of, recognize, and influence real-life social inequalities faced by marginalized populations in the workplace. Courses allow students to advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their knowledge of workplace learning, organizational dynamics, learning strategy, and ethics.
• Integrative Studies: The integrative studies concentration provides an opportunity for students to design a program of study that fits their own professional goals and includes the required foundation and research courses, concentration courses from any EdD concentration, and electives from the Doctor of Education or Doctor of Law and Policy programs.

Program Objectives

Northeastern's Doctor of Education program is designed for experienced professionals interested in deepening their understanding of education, organizational development, and leadership. Throughout the program, students examine various approaches to critical, practice-based issues, learn research methods, and conduct a doctoral research study that investigates a compelling educational or organizational challenge.

2022-2023 Doctor of Education Program of the Year

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate selected Northeastern's EdD program as the 2022-2023 Program of the Year, noting the “redesigned Dissertation in Practice Curriculum and the adoption of action research as its guiding methodology …” The committee praised “the program’s efforts to move beyond the typical five-chapter dissertation and engage scholarly practitioners in the acquisition of skills to realize meaningful change in their local contexts, emphasizing social justice.”

Testimonials

– sara ewell, phd, assistant dean, graduate school of education, – frawn morgan, current student, doctor of education, – aaron b., program graduate, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)
• Admissions statement: Please provide a personal statement that describes a significant issue or topic within an educational or learning context that you are interested in investigating. Why are these topics important to address? How have your previous work, life, or research experiences prepared you for investigating this topic or issue in the Northeastern doctoral program? (~1500 words)
• Minimum work experience: Three years in a related field
• Professional resumé: Must summarize work and education history, include an outline of your educational/academic skills with examples such as research and teaching experience, affiliations, publications, certifications, presentations, and other professional skills.
• Faculty recommendation: Must be from a faculty member in your previous graduate program who can attest to your readiness for doctoral work. If you are no longer acquainted with a faculty member, please choose a professional who can speak of your academic capabilities to engage in doctoral-level research and writing. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Two professional recommendations: Must be from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities, a supervisor, mentor, or colleague. It is preferred that one letter of recommendation come from your current employer and/or supervisor. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Proof of English language proficiency: ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

The core of the mission of the program is to allow educators to remain in the places they work, focus on a problem of practice, and through experiential learning and site-specific research opportunities in the program, make an immediate impact in their professional environments. The program explicitly integrates research and practice for professionals so they develop the requisite skills for conceiving, designing, conducting, and producing original site-based research in order to effect ethical change related to real-life problems of practice.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Joseph McNabb, PhD

Cherese Childers-McKee, PhD

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll be connected to students at our 13 campuses, as well as 300,000-plus alumni and more than 3,500 employer partners around the world. Our global university system provides you with unique opportunities to think locally and act globally and serves as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Education & Learning alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Boston Public Schools
• Chicago Public Schools
• NYC Department of Education
• Lockheed Martin
• Veterans Affairs
• Johns Hopkins
• Columbia University

What They Do

• Media Consultant
• College President
• Chief Information Officer
• Instructional Designer
• Diversity Officer
• Founder-CEO
• VP of Student Services
• Community Services Director

What They're Skilled At

• Experiential Learning
• Team Building
• International Education
• Change Agency
• Entrepreneurship
• Urban Education
• Strategic Management
• Student Engagement

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education

Become an education change agent.

Advance your career and take steps toward truly making a difference in your field by earning a PhD in Education at the Graduate School of Education and Human Development (GSEHD) within the George Washington University . Our unique programs create opportunities for cross-disciplinary research, collaboration, and hands-on experiences—alongside leading experts—exploring solutions to a range of complex challenges facing our education system today.

Program Overview:

• Candidates apply to a cross-disciplinary research concentration, detailed below, that is focused on a related critical problem.
• Students engage in individual and collaborative research, using a cross-disciplinary lens, throughout the program.
• Candidates should aspire to careers in which the production of research is paramount.

Request Information     

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Choose a Concentration to Match Your Research Interests and Career Goals  

Why GSEHD at GW?

Our Location is Your Advantage

Our unique location in Washington, D.C., the policymaking capital of the world, along with GW’s vast connections, offer unparalleled opportunities for high-level, hands-on research experience and competitive employment opportunities with prestigious organizations, think tanks, federal agencies, and diverse school systems.

Cross-Disciplinary Perspectives

How do we educate people to interact with intelligent technologies? How can modern societies combat inequality and enhance opportunity for disadvantaged populations? To investigate critical national/global questions in the field, teams of students and faculty use—and contribute to—knowledge and methods from psychology, sociology, engineering, and economics, in addition to education.

Principles of Research + Hands-On Experience

Gain a deeper understanding of the responsible conduct of research with human subjects, research ethics, and how to consider the social impact of the work. You’ll bring your experience in education to the design, development, data collection, and analyses in a research project. Engage with peers from multiple concentrations within our inclusive cross-disciplinary team, as well as within more focused research projects.

You May Be Eligible

Learn more about benefits that may apply to you, depending on the program you choose >

No Application Fees

GRE is Not Required

Scholarships Available

 Upcoming Info Sessions

Society’s big problems don’t have tidy boundaries. Our approach prepares students to look for solutions through the lens of multiple academic disciplines, to build bridges that reinforce and connect established pillars of knowledge.

DR. COLIN GREEN Associate Professor, Curriculum and Pedagogy

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Dr. Watkins Receives Grant for Project: Operationalizing Trustworthy AI: LLM Development in Academia

August 23, 2024

Drs. Cha and Nakamura Receive GW Sigur Center for Asian Studies Summer Research Grants

April 10, 2024

GSEHD Student, Nina Balandina, Awarded GW Presidential Fellowship

April 4, 2024

Doctoral Students Attend Curriculum Camp

March 5, 2024

Dr. Streitwieser Receives CIES 2024 Teaching Comparative and International Education Innovative Curriculum Development Award

February 28, 2024

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Leaders in Education and Health

The College of Education at The University of Texas at Austin is a part of a tier-one research institution that is pushing the boundaries in the fields of education, policy, psychology and health behavior.

Our highly ranked doctoral programs provide research-driven experiences that pair theory and practice in collaborative environments in education, policy and health. Through specialized coursework and critical scholarship, our Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) graduates are well positioned to go out and change the world. Our industry-leading faculty work closely with our doctoral students, nurturing them as they conduct cutting-edge research and preparing them to become policy makers, researchers, professors and leaders who advance education and health and shape its future in the U.S. and beyond.

Why Our College

Ranked as one of the best education schools in the country by U.S. News & World Report, our graduates are well prepared to tackle impactful issues facing the world today and to positively transform lives through education, health research and policy.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Autism and Developmental Disabilities

The Autism and Developmental Disabilities (A&DD) Doctoral Program provides students with cutting-edge training for conducting research. Students engage in hands-on practice with individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. In this concentration, we strive to provide students with teaching, research and clinical training experiences that will prepare them for careers in academia and/or clinical-based settings. 

Bilingual/Bicultural Education

Become an expert in important topics related to the field of bilingual and bicultural education. Students in this program will become advocates for the importance of bilingual education for teachers, administrators and families through coursework and research alongside faculty.

Counseling Psychology

Our doctoral program in counseling psychology is scientist-practitioner based, preparing Ph.D. psychologists to work with problems of human behavior in a range of social processes and systems.

Cultural Studies in Education

Focus your studies on the importance of cultural and social diversity in education. The CSE program takes an interdisciplinary approach to researching topics such as the history, philosophy, and politics of education, urban schooling, critical pedagogy and globalization.

Early Childhood Education

Improve early childhood education and development by researching and learning about early childhood policy, pedagogy, curriculum and training for children in preschool through 3rd grade. This program prepares students to address global, national and local issues facing young children and their communities in classrooms, schools and beyond.

Early Childhood Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education

The Early Childhood Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education (ECI/ECSE) Ph.D. degree features coursework and intensive mentoring from scholars that conduct cutting-edge clinical and translational research to improve the lives of young children with disabilities and their families. The goal of the program is to prepare the next generation of scholars and future leaders to conduct high-quality research that advances the field of early childhood special education. 

Educational Policy and Planning

Through vigorous coursework and innovative research, students examine important topics and issues in public schools to better inform policies that benefit all students.

Equity and Diversity in Special Education (EDSE)

Focus on the unique needs of individuals with disabilities and their families from diverse socio-cultural and linguistic communities. Students will become prepared to work in higher education, leadership roles in schools, research roles in education and as critical thought leaders in multicultural special education.

Exercise Physiology

Study exercise physiology using an integrative approach to discover and disseminate basic, applied and clinical knowledge regarding the metabolic, cardiovascular, cardiopulmonary and autonomic nervous system responses to exercise and physical inactivity in health, aging and diabetes. Our graduate students conduct a focused line of research by working with faculty mentors. Their cooperative work builds a foundation of knowledge critical for the advancement of the field.

​Health Behavior and Health Education 

Gain the necessary experience for a research, academic or applied career in health promotion, health education and public health. Our graduate programs provide a multidisciplinary perspective on health and well-being across the lifespan.

Higher Education Leadership and Policy

The PHELP Ph.D. program prepares students in the scholarly study of higher education. Through research across departments within the university, students gain first-hand experience into effective applications, policies and leadership skills used in academia by faculty and staff. Students also learn how universities function as advocates for social justice and support increasingly diverse student populations. This program starts in the fall semester.

Human Development, Culture and Learning Sciences

The Ph.D. program in Human Development, Culture and Learning Sciences (HDCLS) trains graduate students in theories of human cognition, culture, development, language, learning, motivation, social and personality psychology. Graduates are prepared for teaching and research careers in these areas.

Language and Literacy Studies 

Learn to become a leader in language and literacy studies through collaborative research, engaging coursework and clinical practice. Students will know the importance of literacy as a social tool for change so that they can go on to become advanced degree teachers, professors in literacy studies and administrative policy makers for literacy programs.

Learning Disabilities and Behavior Disorders 

This program will prepare you to work in a variety of settings including higher education, leadership roles in schools and districts, and further research into the practices and interventions that effectively treat learning disabilities. 

Learning Technologies 

Use state-of-the-art technologies to create and offer interactive and engaging forms of education. Learn how to use the internet and other emerging technologies in K-12 education, higher education, and business or industry training. Courses cover the design, implementation and evaluation of various educational applications and related research topics.

Movement and Cognitive Rehabilitation Science

Explore aspects of biomechanical, neural and neuromuscular mechanisms of human movement with applications to development and aging, skill acquisition, elite performance and rehabilitation following chronic or acute injuries. Our graduate students work in collaborative multi-disciplinary teams with faculty mentors on focused lines of research to address basic and applied questions, using kinematic and kinetic motion capture and electrophysiological assessment of neuromuscular function.

Physical Culture and Sport Studies

Pursue a Ph.D. in physical culture and sport studies to prepare for an academic career with a focus in research. This unique program brings together several fields related to sport culture studies. Students are encouraged to choose coursework from multiple areas, integrating history, Olympic studies, cultural studies, sociology and gender studies, law, political science and ethics/philosophy. Archival collections at the Stark Center provide students with unparalleled resources for research in sport and physical culture studies.

Physical Education Teacher Education

Study the art and science of physical education through our doctoral program. Students learn how to design curriculum for physical education along with research, assessment and evaluation practices. This program also has a strong focus on cultural studies in contemporary education.

Quantitative Methods

The Ph.D. quantitative methods specializations offer training in modern statistical and psychometric methods to prepare graduates to advance methodological research and to apply those methods to address educational and social science research questions. Our graduates are employed in academia, professional testing organizations, educational research and development agencies, industrial psychology agencies, governing agencies of higher education, state departments of education and research and program evaluation divisions of large school districts.

School/Clinical Child Psychology

The School/Clinical Child Psychology doctoral program uses a scientist-practitioner model to prepare applied researchers and licensed psychologists to understand and enhance the development of children, adolescents and their caretakers in context.

Social Studies Education

Our doctoral program prepares students to become educators in social studies. Courses in this program approach social studies education from a variety of disciplines in order to provide educators with a unique perspective on how to teach and improve social studies education.

STEM Education

Education in science, technology, engineering and math is critically important. Students in this program learn to inspire learners to pursue their interests in STEM topics, as well as become advocates for equity in STEM through leadership, research and teaching.

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Cooperative Superintendency Program 

The Cooperative Superintendency Program (CSP) offers a doctoral degree within the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy. This program prepares students with the skills, knowledge and real-world experiences to provide direction within a dynamic educational landscape. Students are engaged through content focusing on superintendency preparation, as well as for positions in state education agencies, education research centers and executive-level positions in both urban and suburban districts. This program starts in the first summer session.

Executive in Higher Education Leadership

The Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership program prepares students for higher education leadership careers. Students will learn competencies in social justice, equity, research, organization and technology that contribute to aspects of a qualified educational leader. This program is designed for working professionals to be completed within 30-36 months.

Graduate Program Contacts

Stephen Flynn

Curriculum and Instruction SZB 4.708 (512) 471-3747

Kelsey Samsel

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Doctoral Degree Programs

USC Rossier School of Education offers two types of excellent doctoral degree programs. The PhD is research-oriented whereas the EdD is directed towards educational practice and the application of theory and research. The EdD, while equal in rigor, differs in substance from the PhD.

More in Doctoral Degree Programs

PhD in Education

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) program will prepare you to pursue educational equity through research. The program offers four concentrations: Educational Psychology, Higher Education, K–12 Education Policy and Teacher Education.

Educational Leadership

The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EDL) program prepares you to become a critically conscious leader with the skills to think strategically, understand and apply evidence-based research, develop strategies to create equity and foster continuous organizational improvement. The program offers four concentrations: educational psychology, higher education administration, K–12 leadership in urban education and leading instructional change.

Educational Leadership (online)

The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership online (EDL online) program prepares you to become a critically conscious leader with the skills to think strategically, understand and apply evidence-based research, develop strategies to create equity and foster continuous organizational improvement. 

Organizational Change and Leadership (online)

The Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership online (OCL online) program will prepare you to lead systemic improvement and foster equitable practices and policies in your organization by applying research-based strategies.

Global Executive Education

The Global Executive Doctor of Education (Global EdD) program will prepare you to achieve large-scale improvements across educational systems through the strategic use of policy, innovative practice, assessment and social entrepreneurship. Before the beginning of each term, you will have the opportunity to choose whether to enroll in the hybrid or online learning experience for that term.

Mental Health Leadership

The Doctor of Education in Mental Health Leadership online (MHL online) program offers a dynamic educational experience tailored to professionals seeking to drive positive change as leaders in the delivery of mental health services. Through a comprehensive curriculum and flexible online format, students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to lead organizations in diverse settings with a social justice approach.

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• Ph.D. in Education

Ph.D. in Education: Transforming Education in a Diverse Society

The Ph.D. in Education is designed for students with some professional experience in teaching and learning settings as well as in research.  Our mission is to teach students to wield the tools of research to change disparities in educational experiences and student outcomes.

Our Ph.D. in Education is designed for students who want to pursue research and careers in academia, the non-profit sector, or governmental agencies with a focus on how to improve educational practices and policies to achieve social equity and progress. We look for students with both research experiences and professional experience in teaching, leadership, and learning, who want to build their capacities to undertake independent scholarly research. 

As part of the evolution of education research, the field of education will require Ph.D. graduates who are prepared to collaborate with policymakers, educators, families, and communities to transform current education practice and policy. Our Ph.D. program will provide a fresh approach to training much needed and innovative researchers. Rather than training traditional faculty members solely to generate knowledge by documenting outcomes and processes in education, human development, and well-being, we will cultivate future faculty and researchers to serve and partner with communities through their research in order to accelerate the improvement of education in regional, national, and international settings.

With a focus on equity, equality, and justice, our program is designed to support the development of interdisciplinary, rigorous researchers who can improve educational structures, practices, and policies, as well as the use of educational approaches for community well-being, particularly in low resource settings and for socially marginalized youth. The program will explicitly articulate the links between university faculty, students, families, education practitioners, community members and programs, policy-makers, and educational and community stakeholders. 

In addition to developing a solid theoretical and methodological foundation, students in the program have opportunities to deepen and extend their learning through elective coursework within EDS and cognate coursework in other UCSD departments, and through research apprenticeships with EDS faculty,   in order to deepen their knowledge of varied disciplines, theories, and epistemologies. 

Students will also have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary experiences by engaging in research across UC San Diego divisions, departments, and research units. Education Studies is a partner with Critical Gender Studies (CGS) allowing PhD students to apply for a   Graduate Specialization in CGS . Additionally, students interested in cognitive science development may apply to join the   Interdisciplinary PhD program in Cognitive Science   and Education Studies.

EDS Ph.D. Student Kirk Rogers, Receives Ford Fellowship

Eds ph.d. students anita caduff and rebecca levine, each received a friends of the international center fellowship, want to learn more, program features.

The program features include:

• Competitive Funding
• A commitment to promoting equity and social justice
• A focus on designing solutions for pressing problems in education
• A multi-disciplinary approach to training educational researchers, focusing on close collaboration with educators, policymakers, and the community
• On-campus, full-time course of study
• Interdisciplinary approach
• Focus on collaborative inquiry
• Intensive research internships working with well-renowned faculty
• Rigorous training in quantitative and qualitative research methods
• Training to generate and communicate research that transforms practices in local settings and makes an impact nationally and globally
• The use of technology as a tool for teaching, scholarship, and supporting change in diverse communities

Admissions Information

Our application for Fall 2025 will open on September 4, 2024.

The deadline to apply for Fall 2025 is Wednesday, Decemeber 4th, 2024.

A completed Ph.D. application will include the following components:

1) Application Form 

Fill out the application form online.

2) Statement of Purpose

Your Statement of Purpose  must  address the following:  (1) research interests, (2) relevant professional experiences, (3)  experiences with teaching and learning, (4) experience in diverse communities; (5) how your professional and research goals contribute to diversity. 

3) Recommendation Letters

Three letters of recommendation need to be submitted via the online recommendation form available within the application.  You may find it useful to consider in advance whom you will ask to serve as recommenders, so that you may contact these individuals and confirm their willingness. We suggest selecting recommenders who can comment on your ability to be successful in a rigorous Ph.D. program which focuses on transforming education in a diverse society. The letters might include a recommender’s knowledge and assessment of your academic preparation, your professional experiences in educational practice, and your research interests and experiences.

An applicant must submit a professional resume. The Ph.D. in Education is designed for students with some professional experience in teaching and learning settings as well as in research. 

5) Writing Sample

An applicant must submit a publication or a sample of academic writing.

6) Transcripts

For application review purposes (only), scan and upload copies of transcripts for all institutions attended post-high school.  In the online application, you will be prompted to upload a PDF of your scanned documents. Please upload both the front and back sides of the transcript, even if the back side is blank. Uploaded transcripts should be recent and include the following: your name, the institution name, dates of attendance, grades/marks received, credits, and grading legend.  If no transcript is available, please upload a statement explaining the circumstances.

*Do not mail hard copies until provisionally admitted.

Upon provisional admission UC San Diego:  Official transcripts from all institutions attended after high school will be required to finalize your admission and must be submitted to the Graduate Admissions office. Official records including transcripts, evaluations, mark sheets, diplomas, certificates, translations, and study abroad work must be delivered in a sealed envelope from the administering institution or service. Documents will not be accepted if opened or sealed by the student. Certified electronic transcripts sent directly to Graduate Admissions from the issuing institution care also accepted.  Electronic transcripts should be sent to  [email protected] .

Applicants with academic work in progress who expect to complete a degree program before the intended date of enrollment at UC San Diego, must provide evidence of degree conferral and a final academic transcript as soon as they are available.

By the time enrollment begins, successful applicants  must hold a bachelor's degree or the equivalent from an accredited institution in the United States or from a recognized university-level academic institution abroad. Completed coursework for both domestic and international applicants must demonstrate the equivalent of at least a B average in the United States .

7) GRE Scores

We do not require that you take the  GRE exam . If you do take the exam our program code is R4836. If you have already taken the test and did not have your scores sent to UC San Diego, contact ETS to have your scores sent to us electronically. The test scores are valid for 5 years.

8) Additional Educational Experiences (Required by EDS)

To be considered for admission into the Ph.D. in Education Program, please respond to a minimum of three out of the seven areas included within the application. This part of the application is not optional for EDS.

9) Application Fee 

The application fee is $135 for US citizens or permanent residents; $155 for international applicants. The non-refundable fee is payable by credit card through the online application. You may also pay by check, following the instructions in the online application. If you choose to pay by check, please note that your application will not be processed until your check has been received.

The UCSD Education Studies PhD program uses a structured holistic review process with a rubric-based evaluation. Each application is reviewed in its entirety and rated on academic preparation, potential for scholarship, and potential for contributing to equity and diversity in formal and information learning contexts. While we do not have a minimum GRE score,  we encourage students to take the test seriously, to practice and do your best. You may choose to address low scores in your statement of purpose. Successful applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or the equivalent from an accredited institution in the United States or from a recognized university-level academic institution abroad and at least a B average (3.0 GPA) or its equivalent by the time they enroll. Some exceptional applicants with lower GPAs may be recommended for admission. You may choose to address low grades in Education related courses or GPA in your statement of purpose.

* Former UC San Diego graduate students should contact Amber Rieder to complete the necessary re-admission process. 

Graduate Funding

Admitted EDS PhD students are guaranteed 5 years financial support, which includes half-time student academic employment, and full tuition & fees during the academci year.

If admitted to the program a detailed funding letter outlining the funding package will be provided.

For further questions about funding please contact the Graduate Coordinator, Amber Rieder, [email protected].

Financ ial Support FAQs

Faculty use a wide array of research methodologies and discipline-based theoretical tools for analyzing and addressing topics. Our faculty have expertise in quantitative methods and qualitative methods of research, with many using mixed methods research approaches. Faculty research projects range from large-scale, multi-site quantitative analyses to in-depth qualitative studies of schools, classrooms, and communities. Faculty also have expertise in historical research, theory development, and design-based approaches to research.

View a list of Ph.D. Faculty and Research Topic Areas

Program of Study

2024-2025 ph.d. proposed course schedule, 2023-2024 ph.d. course schedule, 2022-2023 ph.d. course schedule, 22021-2022 ph.d. course schedule, 2020-2021 ph.d. course schedule, 2019-2020 ph.d. course schedule , 2018-2019 ph.d. course schedule , degree benchmarks.

Our signature pedagogy is problem immersion -- we ask students to read research and learn theories and methodologies in the service of understanding existing real-world education situations and contexts.  During the first two years of the program, students will take required courses in foundational areas and in rigorous research methods. Students will also take  Research Apprenticeship Courses (RAC)  in which students are immersed in faculty research with faculty supporting students’ development as researchers. At the end of the first year, and with faculty guidance, students will choose their particular area of focus and select elective courses in education and in other departments accordingly. Students will continue their research immersion experiences and take courses as part of an interdisciplinary cognate strand.

Between the end of year 2 and no later than Spring quarter of year 3 students will submit their  Qualifying Exam Research Review Paper . The written Research Review is designed to assess the student's ability to work in a scholarly and professional way with substantive knowledge in their area of interest. To successfully meet the research review benchmark, a student must submit a scholarly review of research manuscript of publishable quality. The manuscript should demonstrate the student’s knowledge of theory and research in a particular topic area related to transforming education in a diverse society.

After successfully passing the Qualifying Exam, students will present their dissertation proposal between year three and four. Information on this process can begin with the  Dissertation Proposal and Committee document . During the fourth and fifth years students will work with their dissertation advisor and other faculty committee members to complete their dissertation research and writing.

Student Handbooks

• Ph.D. Cohort 8 Handbook 2023-2024
• Ph.D. Cohort 7 Handbook 2022-2023
• Ph.D. Cohort 6 Handbook 2021-2022
• Ph.D. Cohort 5 Handbook 2020-2021
• Ph.D. Cohort 4 Handbook 2019-2020
• Ph.D. Cohort 3 Handbook 2018-2019
• Ph.D. Cohort 2 Handbook 2017-2018

PhD Program Committees

PhD Program Catalog Description

EDS PhD Approach to Mentoring and Advising

Information on SPSS

EDS Instructional Assistant (IA) Handbook

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 Slides from our Fall P.h.D. Information Session     

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Neag School of Education

Uconn’s doctoral degree programs in education.

Earn Your Ph.D. or Ed.D. at the Neag School of Education

Transform the educational landscape by earning your Ph.D. or Ed.D. at one of the top 25 public graduate schools of education in the country, according to the U.S. News & World Report.

The Neag School of Education stands out as a significant contributor to instructional and research excellence at the University of Connecticut, one of the nation’s leading public education institutions, with academic departments dedicated to educational leadership, educational psychology, and curriculum and instruction. Our mission is to improve educational and social systems to be more effective, equitable, and just for all.

Request More Information about the Ph.D.

Request More Information about the Ed.D.

Our Doctoral Degree Programs  

All three of the Neag School’s departments offer opportunities to earn your doctorate in a variety of concentrations.   

Curriculum & Instruction - Ph.D.

Educational Leadership - Ph.D. & Ed.D.

Educational Psychology - Ph.D.

Research Areas of Expertise

Our faculty bring a wealth of knowledge and research expertise in such areas as education policy, educational psychology, educational technology, sport management, and teacher education. Their collective research endeavors address issues as diverse as addressing the opportunity gap, shaping school policy, serving gifted and talented students, and improving educational, social, and behavioral outcomes for youth nationwide.

Learn more about our research

How to Apply to UConn’s Doctoral Programs in Education

Prospective doctoral students must meet the admission criteria of both the UConn Graduate School and the specific Neag School doctoral program to which they are applying. 

Ph.D. applications are due by December 1 for admission the following Fall. Applicants who submit by December 1 will be considered for funding opportunities (graduate assistantships, teaching assistantships). Applications are welcome after December 1 but may not be eligible for funding.

The next matriculation year for the Ed.D. Program will be Fall 2025. Admissions will occur in Spring 2025.

GRE scores are optional for several of the Neag School’s Ph.D. concentrations and the Ed.D. degree, but are req uired for some Ph.D. concentrations.  Please review the application requirements for each department and concentration before submitting your application through the Graduate School:  

Apply to Curriculum & Instruction

Apply to Educational Leadership Ph.D. or Ed.D.

Apply to Educational Psychology

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Most doctoral students in the Neag School support their graduate studies through graduate assistantships (details below). Doctoral students may receive financial support from a variety of sources, and we recommend doctoral students research all available opportunities, including the ones shared below, that will best suit their needs. In addition, the Neag School offers competitive scholarships for doctoral students at different stages in their programs.

Before Enrolling

Financial aid.

The University of Connecticut offers a variety of financial aid options to support students along their doctoral journey, in addition to state and federal assistance.

Graduate Teaching and Research Assistantships

Most doctoral students support their graduate study through graduate assistantships, which can involve teaching (teaching assistantships) and/or research (research assistantships). In fact, in 2023-2024 all Ph.D. students at the Neag School who were eligible for assistantships received one. Assistantships of 10 hours per week (the equivalent of teaching one class a semester) or more provide coverage for tuition, a small stipend, and benefits. The graduate student union is a helpful source of information regarding work rules and compensation for such positions and their associated benefits.  

Visit our Open Graduate Assistantships webpage to learn of open positions within the Neag School.

Teaching Assistantships 

Teaching Assistantships can involve having sole responsibility for a class or supporting a faculty member who is teaching a large class. Teaching an undergraduate course requires having a master’s degree; teaching an MA/MS course requires having a Ph.D. or equivalent, relevant experience. These assistantships are assigned and overseen by the department in which the course is offered. For more information about teaching assistantship possibilities, speak to your advisor or department chair or visit the Open Graduate Assistantships webpage .

Research Assistantships 

Many doctoral students are hired to work on faculty research projects that are funded by outside agencies or internal UConn grants. While many times faculty have their advisees work with them on projects, there are opportunities for students to seek projects with other faculty and in accordance with graduate student union work parameters. Because grants are received on a rolling basis, depending on the funding source, it pays to be proactive in seeking out such opportunities. Speaking to faculty who do research that is relevant to your experience and interests is important, as is consulting with your advisor about any grants of which they are aware and would be a good fit for your interests. Positions are posted on the Open Graduate Assistantships webpage and sometimes in the Neag Student News , so it is also a good idea to check both regularly.  

National Organizations

There are also funding opportunities available through national organizations. Students would pursue these funding opportunities on their own. Here is one example:  

The National Science Foundation often has programs that support doctoral study in STEM-related fields. Currently, The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) is designed to help ensure the quality, vitality, and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce of the United States. The program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students who are pursuing full-time research-based master's and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) or in STEM education. The GRFP provides three years of support over a five-year fellowship period for the graduate education of individuals who have demonstrated their potential for significant research achievements in STEM or STEM education. NSF actively encourages women, persons who are members of groups historically underrepresented in STEM, persons with disabilities, veterans, and undergraduate seniors to apply. Click on the link above for additional information.  

Once Enrolled

The University sponsors competitions for two kinds of additional support: conference participation awards and a summer doctoral fellowship . Departments within the Neag School also sponsor opportunities to award additional support to students for a variety of activities.   

As one gets ready to pursue dissertation research, there are also competitive fellowships that one might apply to, including those listed below.  

Neag School Scholarships

There are a number of small internal scholarships available that can provide funding for incidental expenses, such as fees, books, etc. Applications are invited every January.  

Holmes Scholars Program

In Fall 2020, UConn’s Neag School of Education was selected to join the more than 50 higher education institutions nationwide currently sponsoring the Holmes Scholars Program . The Neag School has pledged to cover the costs of sending each of its Holmes Scholars to the AACTE’s annual conference, as well as the two-day preconference exclusive to Holmes Scholars, for a minimum of three years. In addition, Holmes Scholars are funded to attend AACTE's Washington Week one time.  

Established in 1991 by the Holmes Group and supported by the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), the Holmes Scholars Program seeks to provide mentorship, peer support, professional development, and rich scholarly experiences to students from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds who are pursuing graduate degrees in education at AACTE member institutions. Since its inception, more than 700 Holmes Scholars have benefited from taking part in the program.  

UConn Human Rights Institute Dissertation Fellowships

In an effort to support graduate student dissertation s with a human rights focus at UConn, the Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute funds at least one dissertation research fellowship and at least one dissertation writing fellowship of up to $5,000 each . The purpose of the research fellowship is to support primary research activities, including but not limited to: archival research, participant observation, interview, data collection, data set construction, ethnography, textual criticism, digital archiving, and historical preservation. The writing fellowship should be used to support the student during the time in which a majority of the dissertation is expected to be written.  

Gavin Dissertation Completion Award

This competitive award was established through the UConn Foundation by UConn alumna Dr. Kathy Gavin ’97 Ph.D., a retired associate professor in residence in mathematics, providing funding to doctoral students who are engaged in dissertation research and who have successfully defended their dissertation proposals, with the expectation that recipients anticipate defending their dissertation by end of the academic year. The award may be used to support anticipated dissertation research expenses.  

Spencer Foundation/National Academy of Education Dissertation Fellowship

The Spencer/NAE Dissertation Fellowship Program seeks to encourage a new generation of scholars from a wide range of disciplines and professional fields to undertake research relevant to the improvement of education. These $27,500 fellowships support individuals whose dissertations show potential for bringing fresh and constructive perspectives to the history, theory, analysis, or practice of formal or informal education anywhere in the world. This highly competitive program aims to identify the most talented researchers conducting dissertation research related to education.  

American Association of University Women American Fellowship

The purpose of the American Dissertation Fellowship is to offset a scholar’s living expenses while she completes her dissertation. The fellowship must be used for the final year of writing the dissertation.  

Applicants must have completed all coursework, passed all preliminary examinations, and received approval for their research proposals or plans by the preceding November. Students holding fellowships for writing a dissertation in the year prior to the AAUW fellowships year are not eligible. Open to applicants in all fields of study. Scholars engaged in science, technology, engineering and math fields or those researching gender issues are especially encouraged to apply.  

AERA Minority Dissertation Fellowship Program in Education Research

The AERA Minority Dissertation Fellowship in Education Research is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are members of racial and ethnic groups historically underrepresented in higher education (e.g., African Americans, Alaskan Natives, American Indians, Asian Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islanders). Applicants can come from graduate programs and departments in education research, the humanities, or social or behavioral science disciplinary or interdisciplinary fields, such as economics, history, political science, psychology, public policy, or sociology. Eligible graduate students will be at the writing stage of their dissertation by the beginning of the fellowship. Fellows are required to provide proof of advancement to candidacy at the beginning of the award period. Applicants must work full-time on their dissertations and course requirements.  

AERA Dissertation Grants

Dissertation Grants are available for advanced doctoral students and are intended to support the student while analyzing data and writing the doctoral dissertation. Proposals are encouraged from the full range of education research fields and other fields and disciplines engaged in education-related research, including economics, political science, psychology, sociology, demography, statistics, public policy, and psychometrics. Applicants for this one-year, nonrenewable award should be advanced doctoral students at the dissertation writing stage, usually the last year of study. Applicants may be U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents enrolled in a doctoral program. Non-U.S. citizens enrolled in a doctoral program at an U.S. institution are also eligible to apply. Underrepresented racial and ethnic minority researchers as well as women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.  

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Berkeley School of Education

Ma and phd programs, about our ma and phd.

Earning a Master’s of Arts degree (MA) or doctorate (PhD) from Berkeley’s School of Education often leads to a career as an educational scholar and researcher in schools, colleges, and universities; non-profits and think tanks; and corporations.

In your application, we encourage you to describe your research interests as well as your desire to study with particular faculty in their application materials. If you wish to study educational topics outside those framed in the list below, we still encourage you to apply to earn your MA or PhD because we want innovative thinkers among us.

During the first semester, all students build a plan of study in consultation with their advisor(s). This plan is revisited, updated, and revised yearly thereafter.

What Doctoral Students Can Expect

During the first two years of study, the Berkeley PhD in Education introduces you to research on current issues in education, theories of learning, human development, and inequality, educational policy, and research methods. Students proceed through the program during the first two years in a cohort, taking core courses together.

The degree program’s structure ensures that you have a broad understanding of important topics in education and that you begin developing the research expertise needed to carry out independent research projects. You will also begin to take elective courses within and outside the BSE in your expected areas of expertise.

By the third and fourth years of study, you are expected to develop greater expertise in your research specialties in close consultation with your faculty advisors. You also take advanced seminars; engage in independent studies and research apprenticeships; and complete an oral exam.

The concluding part of your doctoral studies is preparation of your dissertation proposal and the research and writing of your dissertation.

What Master's Students Can Expect

As a Master’s student, you join the Berkeley community for one academic year, affiliating with a cluster of specialization. MA students often complete courses and their Masters projects during the summer. You are required to complete 24 semester units, which equals seven to eight classes, depending on how many units are awarded for each class.

You will have access to your faculty advisors, an MA Coordinator, and Student Services staff within the School of Education.

Learn more about the core requirements for earning a Master's in Education .

Our faculty’s interests span a range of critical topics and issues that are crucial for the attainment of educational equity and greater impact in schools and communities. The broad clusters of our faculty’s expertise are listed below. Click on any of the titles to see faculty who are engaged in this research.

Critical Studies of Race, Class, and Gender

• Critical Social and Cultural Theories
• Globalization, Immigration, and Migration
• Race & Social Inequality in Urban Education
• Domination and Resistance across Educational Settings
• Social Identities in Educational Contexts
• Language, Literacy, and Digital Media

Language, Literacy, and Culture

• Sociocultural aspects of language use and development across the lifespan
• Linguistic and cultural diversity in language and literacy education
• Intersections of disability and language and literacy learning
• Race and inequality in language and literacy education
• Bi/multilingualism and translanguaging in schools and communities
• Indigenous language maintenance and education in local and global contexts
• Literacy in a Digital Age
• Literacy in and out of School

Learning Sciences and Human Development

• Cognitive, Human, and Social Development 
• Mathematics and Science Education
• Teacher Learning and Education
• Technology and Digital Media

Policy, Politics, and Leadership

• Leadership in Educational Organizations
• Policy Analysis and Program Implementation
• Politics of Education Advocacy
• School Improvement

Social Research Methodologies

• Data Science
• Design-Based Research
• Measurement
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Statistics and Econometrics

School Psychology

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The Ph.D. in Education is an interdisciplinary doctoral program that combines advances in the social sciences, sciences, arts, and humanities with deep expertise in educational research, policy, and practice to train students for careers as academics, researchers, policymakers, and leaders who will improve educational outcomes in the United States and around the world. Ph.D. candidates will collaborate with faculty from across Harvard graduate and professional schools and conduct groundbreaking research — forging new fields of inquiry that will transform education practice and policy.  Candidates for the Ph.D. in Education choose from among three concentrations: Culture, Institutions, and Society; Education Policy and Program Evaluation; or Human Development, Learning and Teaching.

All Ph.D.s are granted through the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

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We offer programs at the doctoral and master’s degree levels, as well as undergraduate minor and honors programs. Our cross-area specializations and joint-degree offerings with other Stanford schools leverage the university's vast intellectual resources to provide students with an integrated program of study.

Degree programs

Doctoral programs

The GSE offers doctoral programs in which students engage in educational research that is both rigorous and relevant to educational policy and practice. Leading to a PhD degree in Education, these doctoral programs, as listed below, prepare students in a variety of approaches to the study of teaching and learning. These programs each belong to one of the three academic areas into which GSE's faculty and students are organized, with additional affiliations possible in two cross-area specializations.

Anthropology of Education

Developmental and psychological sciences, economics of education, education data science, educational linguistics, educational policy, elementary education, higher education, history of education, history/social science education, international comparative education, learning sciences and technology design, literacy, language, and english education, mathematics education, organizational studies, philosophy of education, race, inequality, and language in education, science, engineering and technology education, sociology of education, teacher education.

See all PhD programs and descriptions

Master’s programs

The master ’ s programs are full-time, intensive programs that integrate educational theory and practice. The small cohort sizes provide an intimate setting for academic inquiry.

Curriculum and Teacher Education (MA)

Education data science (ms), individually designed ma in education, international comparative education (ma)/international education policy analysis (ma), joint ma/jd in education and law, joint ma in education/mba, joint ma/mpp in education and public policy, learning design and technology (ms), policy, organization, and leadership studies (ma), stanford teacher education program (ma + credential).

Explore master’s programs

Undergraduate programs

Stanford GSE offers honors and minor programs for undergraduate students at Stanford who are interested in supplementing their major field(s) with courses and research in the field of education. These programs provide opportunities for learning in both broad-based and focused areas of student interest in educational research, theory, and practice.

Undergraduate minor in education

Undergraduate honors in education.

Learn more about undergraduate minor and honors

For more information, please see the Admissions FAQ page or contact the  Office of Academic Affairs .

Professional programs

Faculty from the GSE research centers develop and oversee in-person and online professional development opportunities reaching over 40,000 education professionals each year.

See professional learning opportunities

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Top 10 PhD in Education Programs

Karla Ibarra is a content writer at Scholarships 360. She has worked as an English teacher and writing tutor. As a writing tutor, she has experience editing scholarships and college application essays. Karla graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Communication and a minor in English.

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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Earning a PhD in any field is both time intensive and expensive. While the required time to earn a PhD is a given, paying for one is not! Fully funded PhD programs offer students a chance to focus on their studies without worrying about going into debt long (sometimes decades) after graduation. With the average cost of a PhD at nearly $82,000 , potential PhD students should do everything possible to secure a spot in fully funded programs. Keep reading to learn about some of the top fully funded PhD programs in education! 

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First, exactly what is a “Doctorate of Philosophy” degree?

A PhD, which is the abbreviated form of “doctorate of philosophy,” is among the highest level degrees one can earn in the United States. Students earn a  PhD after the completion of a lengthy research and writing project known as a “dissertation.” While most students earn PhDs in the humanities or social sciences, they can earn a PhD in a variety of fields. 

Further reading: What is a PhD?

How we chose the fully funded PhD in Education programs on this list

All of the programs on the following list have stellar reputations in the education space. It is not surprising that the most reputable programs offer plentiful resources that are invaluable to PhD students. PhD students are able to fully focus on their studies in well stocked and up-to-date libraries. Students have access to the most distinguished education professors in their respective specialty fields. Upon graduation, students will have strong connections to help launch their own careers. 

All of the fully funded programs included offer full tuition coverage. Most offer living stipends and health insurance as well. Make sure that you read the details of exactly what to expect from each program. Students may be required to contribute to their education by becoming a graduate assistant or working in some capacity at the school they are enrolled in. 

Let’s take a look at some of the top fully-funded PhD in Education programs, which are in no particular order. 

Columbia University Teachers College PhD program in Education Policy 

Columbia University Teachers College PhD program in Education provides students with rigorous academic training and research opportunities. The program offers a range of specializations, including curriculum and teaching, educational leadership, higher education, international and comparative education, psychology in education, and special education.  

• Location: New York City, New York
• Focus of study : Curriculum and teaching, education policy and social analysis, health education, and cognitive studies in education.
• What is included : Tuition coverage for the first, second, and third year

Harvard University PhD in Education

Harvard University offers a PhD program in Education through the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE). The program offers students specializations in three concentrations: Culture, Institutions, and Society; Education Policy and Program Evaluation; and Human Development, Learning and Teaching.  

• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Focus of study : Human development, instructional practice, institutions and society, learning and teaching, and policy analysis and evaluation
• What is included : Full financial support for tuition, health insurance fees, and basic living expenses for a minimum of five years

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Stanford phd program in education.

The Stanford Graduate School of Education PhD program in Education prepares scholars to advance knowledge about learning and education, with a focus on improving educational outcomes for all students. Academic areas students can focus on include curriculum studies and teacher education (CTE), developmental and psychological sciences (DAPS), social sciences, humanities, and interdisciplinary policy studies in education (SHIPS), and other cross-area specializations. 

• Location: Stanford, California
• Focus of study : Educational leadership, education policy analysis, learning and teaching, and quantitative and qualitative research methods
• What is included : Full tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign PhD program in Education

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a Ph.D. program in education that provides students with a strong foundation in educational theory, research methodologies, and practical applications. Students may specialize in a variety of different areas of study. These include educational policy, leadership and administration, curriculum and instruction, educational psychology, and human development. 

• Location: Champaign, Illinois 
• Focus of study : Curriculum and instruction, educational policy, educational psychology, higher education, learning sciences, and special education
• What is included : Full tuition waiver, a partial fee waiver, and a stipend in the first five years of enrollment

University of Michigan PhD program in Educational Studies  

The University of Michigan offers a Ph.D. program in Education through its School of Education. Students have the opportunity to specialize in diverse fields such as educational psychology, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and policy. Additionally, the University of Michigan provides a vibrant intellectual community and a wide range of resources, including libraries, research centers, and partnerships with local schools and educational organizations. 

• Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Focus of study : Cross-specialization concentration, educational foundations and policy, educational policy, leadership, and innovation, learning technologies, literacy, language, and culture, mathematics education, science education, and teaching and teacher education
• What is included : Full tuition waiver, health insurance, and a generous stipend package 

University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education PhD program in Education

The University of Pennsylvania offers an interdisciplinary and prestigious Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Education housed within the renowned Graduate School of Education (GSE). Students can choose one of the five programs available: 1) educational linguistics 2) human development & quantitative methods 3) literacy, culture, and international education 4) policy, organizations, leadership, and systems and 5) teaching, learning, and leadership. The GSE also has numerous research centers and institutes, providing opportunities for collaboration and engagement with experts. 

• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Focus of study : Educational technology, language and literacy, higher education, policy analysis, teacher education, and urban education
• What is included : A full scholarship, a stipend, and student health insurance for the first four years of study

Vanderbilt University Ph.D. program in Learning, Teaching, and Diversity

Vanderbilt University offers a Ph.D. program in Learning, Teaching, and Diversity through its Peabody College. The program aims to place a strong emphasis on research and provides students with numerous opportunities for professional development and networking. The program offers four areas of specialization: language, literacy, and culture; justice and diversity in education; mathematics and science education; and learning and design. 

• Location: Nashville, Tennessee
• Focus of study : higher education, learning and instruction, language and literacy, educational policy, and more
• What is included : Full tuition support, health insurance, and graduate assistantships that cover living expenses

The University of Texas at Austin College of Education PhD

Within the College of Education at UT Austin , the Curriculum and Instruction department includes a variety of PhD programs to choose from like bilingual education, cultural studies in education, early childhood education, language and literacy studies, learning technologies, social studies education, and more. Other departments in the college of education include: Curriculum and Instruction; Educational Leadership and Policy; Educational Psychology; Kinesiology and Health Education; and Special Education.

• Location: Austin, Texas
• Focus of study : Bilingual/Bicultural Education; Cultural Studies in Education; Early Childhood Education, Language and Literacy Studies; Learning Technologies; Physical Education Teacher Education; Social Studies Education; STEM Education; and Urban Teachers Program
• What is included : Full tuition waiver, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance for up to five years

New York University Steinhardt

The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University offers many PhD programs in the field of education. Popular concentrations include learning sciences, literacy education, educational psychology, policy studies, and teaching and learning. A PhD in education from New York University offers students a variety of specializations with the added bonus of a fully funded program.  

• Focus of study : Bilingual Education; Childhood Education; Early Childhood Education; Education and Jewish Studies; Educational Communication and Technology; and more
• What is included : Tuition coverage for required course work, an annual stipend, and health insurance through the fifth year 

Washington University in St. Louis, PhD in Education

Washington University in St. Louis offers a Ph.D. in Education through its Graduate School of Arts & Sciences. PhD students may choose from two major strands of study; educational policy studies and educational psychology. Students in the Educational Policy Studies concentration focus on analysis of educational policy, address systemic inequities, and study qualitative, quantitative projects. The Educational Psychology program helps students in their focus on psychological research and theories relating to learning and motivation. 

• Location: St. Louis, Missouri
• Focus of study : Educational Policy Studies and Educational Psychology
• What is included : Full tuition remission and a monthly stipend five to six years

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Frequently asked questions about fully funded PhD programs in education

How do i know which phd program in education is right for me.

• If you had to pick one, what would be your main professional goal?
• What’s the reputation of the faculty?
• What research options are available?
• What environment is right for me?

Does a fully funded PhD in education include housing?

Is there an age limit for earning a phd in education, can i earn an online fully funded phd program in education, 3 reasons to join scholarships360.

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What is the Difference Between an EdD and a PhD?

Good leaders have the power to improve the world around them and inspire widespread positive change. For some, leadership is more than a skillset; it's a calling inspired by a passion for lifelong learning and living well.

Current and aspiring leaders in education, government, and healthcare often look for ways to grow in their careers while shaping the broader future of their industry. For many leaders, pursuing a doctoral degree is the best next step.

Understanding Doctoral Degrees in Education

A doctoral degree is the highest student achievement in their discipline. Students can become acclaimed experts in their chosen area of study through rigorous coursework, meticulous research, and completing a dissertation paper or project.

Earning a doctoral degree is a multi-year intensive effort. Still, the reward is well worth it for candidates passionate about leading their field into a brighter tomorrow. Master's degree holders ready to step into a doctoral program may ask: what is the difference between a doctor of education and a Ph.D. ?

There are two types of doctoral degrees in education: a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). These degree programs share a few common themes, but their intended goals and assigned coursework differ. Aspiring doctoral candidates should understand these differences to select the best path forward for their personal and professional goals.

What is a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education?

A Doctor of Philosophy is a terminal degree with a theoretical and research-based focus. Students work to find research gaps, analyze existing data, and introduce their original research to advance academia.

Individuals who pursue Ph.D. degrees often go on to become higher education faculty members or academic researchers. Common Ph.D. in Education careers include:

• Academic Researcher — Academic researchers study existing research to solve problems and create better outcomes. They also conduct experiments and publish the findings of their research.
• University Professor – Professors at colleges and universities are highly qualified teachers who use their specialized research and expertise to educate students. They frequently publish their own work and participate in ongoing research in their chosen field of study.
• Educational Policy Analyst—Individuals in this line of work review current educational policies and study their effects on students, administrators, and education systems. They also monitor current trends in education and draft or amend education-related legislation.
• Curriculum Developer — Curriculum developers use their research abilities to craft a curriculum that delivers key learning objectives and helps students meet learning benchmarks.
• Educational Consultant — Instead of being employed by a specific institution, consultants partner with various schools and administrators to provide valuable insight and feedback about educational systems. Their work centers around improving outcomes for both learning institutions and the students who attend them.

What is a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)?

Like its Ph.D. counterpart, the Ed.D. is a terminal degree, which means it is the highest level of academic achievement in a field of study. A Doctor of Education is designed to help individuals become leaders in the field of education.

While a Ph.D. focuses on conducting research, an Ed.D. focuses on putting research into practice in practical ways. Becoming a Doctor of Education allows you to put your expertise to work in a wide variety of real-world applications. Ph.D. earners typically go on to work in academia, but Ed.D. holders find success in education and other industries alike.

Ed.D. graduates are qualified to, including:

• College or University President — Postsecondary school presidents are the top leaders of their institution. They are visionaries who participate in many aspects of a school, from fundraising to marketing and budgeting to curriculum oversight. In 2023, the median salary for postsecondary administrators averaged $102,610 , and presidents typically earn higher wages than the median figures.
• Instructional Coordinator—Instructional coordinators study data from schools and colleges and use their findings to implement new curricula and improve teaching standards. Rather than working at one institution, they use their skills to serve multiple schools and improve learning outcomes. In 2023, instructional coordinators were paid an average annual salary of $74,620 .
• School Superintendent — A superintendent is the top official in a school district, working with administrators and teachers to oversee administration and academic performance. In 2023, superintendents averaged an annual salary of $103,460 .
• Academic Dean—Academic deans are the leaders of specific departments at postsecondary institutions. This role allows Ed.D. holders to pursue a career in a specialized area. They can become deans of an academic department, deans of admissions, deans of faculty, or deans of student affairs, to name a few. As postsecondary administrators, deans received a median salary of $102,610 in 2023.
• Chief Learning Officer (CLO): CLOs can be found in school systems, large corporations, and nonprofit organizations. They are adept at research, administration, and strategy and oversee education and development for the entire organization. As top executives, CLOs averaged an annual salary of $103,840 in 2023.

3 Key Differences Between Ed.D. and Ph.D. Degrees

Focus and purpose.

Ph.D. and Ed.D. degree programs both equip students with the skills required to become tomorrow's leaders in education. However, Ph.D. degrees prepare graduates for research-based roles, while Ed.D. degrees pave the way for graduates to become practitioners in many fields. For aspiring leaders who want to apply their knowledge as real-world leaders in education, healthcare, business, and government, an Ed.D. provides the necessary tools and training.

Length and Commitment

Ph.D. programs typically take five or more years to complete and average 90 credit hours of coursework, while Ed.D. programs usually take three years to complete and average 60 credit hours of coursework. Ph.D. programs typically require full-time study, while some Ed.D. programs are part-time, which allows career-focused individuals to continue their education without stepping away from the workforce. Practitioners who have taken steps toward career advancement may want to earn their Ed.D. while working to continue their education and job growth potential.

Degree Requirements

A dissertation is a critical component of any doctoral degree. However, Ph.D. dissertations are research-based and focused on theory. At the same time, some Ed.D. programs prefer to assess students through practice-based or problem-based dissertations. This type of dissertation focuses on practical applications of a student's research rather than the research itself, giving them experience in solving the kinds of educational problems they may face in their careers.

Why Choose an Ed.D. Degree?

Aspiring leaders who love to solve problems, apply research, and become respected educators in their field should consider earning their Ed.D. Degree holders are equipped to become leaders in education and influential public and private sector roles.

After earning a Doctor of Education degree, graduates will be prepared to make a meaningful impact in their chosen field. They can advocate for policy change, improve educational systems and student learning outcomes, solve complex problems, and inspire far-reaching and long-lasting positive change.

Students must choose the right degree based on their career goals and preferred course of study. If a research-based Ph.D. program is not aligned with their career trajectory, an Ed.D. provides an equally valuable terminal degree with skills that can be easily applied to real-world roles.

Earn Your Ed.D. at St. Bonaventure University

St. Bonaventure University's online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership was built to acknowledge the complex realities of today's learning and leadership environments. Doctor of Education Students at SBU will experience online coursework that is rigorous but purposeful, designed to help them in their current jobs and propel them into a leadership role as their careers continue to grow.

As the nation's first Catholic-Franciscan university, St. Bonaventure is committed to training students in compassion, humanity, ethics, and integrity. These values equip every student to become a leader in both intellect and integrity.

With 100% online coursework, this doctorate in educational leadership is achievable alongside existing commitments. Many Ed.D. students are working professionals, and at SBU, highly individualized study options and personally chosen committee groups allow doctoral students to thrive.

The Ed.D. program at SBU features coursework about educational leadership, combining research and theory with real-world application for a comprehensive education. Students will take courses such as:

• Applied Research in Educational Leadership
• Leadership Theories and Practices
• Complexity, Communication, and Collaboration
• Analyzing Diversity Policy & Practices in Education

The program culminates in a problem-based dissertation. Students can choose from three dissertation options based on their areas of interest and career objectives. The dissertation process equips students to apply research to real-world problems and provide practical solutions.

Become an education leader of tomorrow with SBU's EdD .

*Please note that information contained in this blog post may be subject to change per program or regulatory requirements.

Whether you have a simple question or need advice to determine if this program is right for you, our knowledgeable advisors are here to help. They can chat with you on your schedule and guide you through the entire admissions process, so you can feel confident moving forward with your online St. Bonaventure University program.

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Frist Center for Autism and Innovation

Neurodiversity inspired science and engineering, neurodiversity inspired science & engineering (nise) graduate trainee fellowship program.

This 1-minute video highlighting NISE people and projects was produced by the American Society of Engineering Education and first shown at the ASEE 2022 conference. A full 6-minute version is also available at this link .

Application for NISE Fellows and Affiliates

The 2024 NISE application is open and will close on May 31 . Applications will be reviewed and decisions made by July 1.

Applications may be submitted at this link:

https://redcap.link/nise_application

Sponsored by a National Science Foundation Research Traineeship (NRT) grant, the NISE program takes a novel approach to the training of engineers and scientists engaged in advancing the future of work at the human technology frontier (FW-HTF), which is one of NSF’s 10 Big Ideas . NISE engages students across STEM disciplines in the development, deployment, and commercialization of FW-HTF approaches and devices that support neurodiversity individuals and/or that are inspired by their abilities. The NISE program builds on the unique strengths of the Vanderbilt School of Engineering’s Frist Center for Autism & Innovation and the Vanderbilt Graduate School .

Eligible fields include but not limited to : School of Engineering (all graduate programs), College of Arts & Science (natural sciences graduate programs, including neuroscience and psychology), School of Medicine (basic sciences graduate programs), Graduate School (data science)

Other eligibility requirements : PhD and master’s students from relevant fields above

The NISE training elements include:

Trainees who complete all the mandatory components of the NISE program will receive a Graduate Certificate in NISE.

Team Research Projects (mandatory):  trainees pursue interdisciplinary thesis projects, co-advised by faculty from two different disciplines selected from participating departments.

NISE seminar courses (mandatory): 

• The Science of NISE – An overview of neurodiversity and generally autism specifically, for engineering and science students having no prior exposure.
• Applications of NISE – Real life applications of NISE are explored to inspire thesis projects and to gain appreciation for the connections across broad swath of STEM disciplines involved.
• Collaborative Approaches to NISE – In this project-based course, student pairs undertake FW-HTF design challenges directly connected to Frist Center for Autism & Innovation research ; in parallel trainees are introduced to topics in robotics, psychometrics, apps development, data visualization, and others.

Summer Programs:

• Data Science : Opportunities for training in basic and some advanced data science concepts and approaches.
• Apps Development: Opportunities to be trained in using emerging standard tools for app development and then be introduced to design tools for creating visually effective apps.

Communication and Skills Workshop (mandatory) – training in oral & written communication skills. Trainees build skill and confidence in communication, enhancing clarity of their message, and forming connection with any audience.

Internships – offered usually in the summer in a range of different environments relevant to NISE research and development. The NRT program helps trainees to navigate challenges of managing an internship along with their research and academic obligations.

Mini-courses Developed by NISE Fellows: 

• The use of physiological data and machine learning to determine affective states in neurotypical and neurodiverse populations, specifically autism.
• Topics: (1) What is Affective Computing?, (2) Intro to Physiological Signals, (3) Intro to Machine Learning, (4) Applications in Autism Research, (5) What is New in the Field, (6) Application to Your Field
• Slides, materials, and lecture recordings are available upon request to Dr. Julie Vernon (contact info below).

Other Elective Training Opportunities:

• Vanderbilt Autism and Neurodiversity Alliance (VANA) , which serves as an informal, safe, and friendly venue for trainees, postdocs, students, faculty, staff and alumni who identify as neurodivergent
• Responsible Conduct of Research course
• Vanderbilt’s Owen School of Management Certificate in Inclusive Leadership
• Center for Technology Transfer & Commercialization – TechVenture Challenge

NISE Fellow Cadence Watkins awarded Best Student Paper at IEEE AIVR conference, November 2021. 

For more information, see this Vanderbilt News story .