Doctoral Concentrations

The doctoral program is designed to prepare leaders who will advance educational theory, practice, and policy through scholarship and disciplined inquiry. Graduates assume leadership roles in university, educational agency, and K-12 settings. Within the framework of the School requirements and with the advice and approval of a doctoral guidance committee, candidates plan a program of study commensurate with their academic needs and professional goals. Such programs usually involve at least three years of course work beyond the bachelor's degree. Students are expected to spend at least two consecutive semesters in full-time study, participate in research, become familiar with contemporary problems in education, and take a comprehensive exam prior to writing a dissertation.

The School of Education is committed to supporting scholarship and outstanding doctoral education. Research-oriented, doctoral concentrations enable doctoral students to work closely with a strong cadre of faculty in a community of scholars to generate knowledge leading to improved educational theory, policy and practice. Doctoral study prepares students for careers as education faculty, researchers, leaders, and policy developers. Doctoral concentrations are offered in the following areas:

Department of Teacher Education and Curriculum Studies (TECS)

• Child and Family Studies
  The development of more effective approaches to the promotion of learning and development in young children.
• Language, Literacy and Culture
  Language and literacy development in first and second languages, bilingual and multicultural education, and children's literature.
• Mathematics, Science, and Learning Technologies
  Improving the learning and teaching of mathematics and science.
• Teacher Education and School Improvement
  Improving schools through more effective teacher education and professional development.

Department of Educational Policy, Research, and Administration (EPRA)

• Educational Policy and Leadership
  Building more effective educational systems in K-12, higher education, and international contexts.
• Research and Evaluation Methods
  Improving education through advancements in psychometric models, statistical techniques, and educational research/evaluation methods.

Department of Student Development and Pupil Personnel Services (SDPPS)

• School Psychology (APA approved) (Ph.D.)
  Improving the education of children through the development of more effective ways of defining, measuring, and addressing learning difficulties and problems.
• Social Justice Education (Ed.D.)
  An understanding of various manifestations of social oppression in K-16 educational settings and the advancement of educational opportunity and equity.
• Special Education (Ed.D.)
  Creating improved educational outcomes for students with disabilities through advancements in research that lead to the development of evidence-based practices in assessment and evaluation, intervention, and leaders.