It is especially suitable for students who wish to pursue careers in policy, research, or college and university teaching. Ph.D. students are the future leaders, university faculty members, and researchers in the field of education. They come to this program from positions as teachers, school and district administrators, and from leadership positions in state and private organizations committed to improving education. They are selected on the basis of their credentials and their long-term interest in policy, research, and college and university teaching.
All new students begin in the fall semester.
The Ph.D. requires that students enrolled under the semester system take at least 52 credits of course work. Typically, a course meeting once a week throughout the semester is three credits. Going full time, including summers, students often can complete the required coursework in 2 to 2 years, at which time they complete preliminary written and oral examinations. Many are able to complete their dissertation in another 1 to 2 years. Upon completion of their dissertation, they take a final oral examination.