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Higher Education, Student Affairs, & International Education Policy - International Education Policy Concentration, Ph.D.

Doctor of Philosophy
At a Glance
Avg. Duration

5-6 years

Start Term

Fall

Required Credits

90

Course Load

Full-time, Part-Time

Location

On-Campus, some hybrid

Application Deadline

December 17, 2024

FAFSA Deadline

June 30, 2025

Tuition (estimate)
  • In-State - $12,540
  • Out-of-State - $26,490
  • More Info
At a Glance
Avg. Duration

5-6 years

Start Term

Fall

Required Credits

90

Course Load

Full-time, Part-Time

Location

On-Campus, some hybrid

Application Deadline

December 17, 2024

FAFSA Deadline

June 30, 2025

Tuition (estimate)
  • In-State - $12,540
  • Out-of-State - $26,490
  • More Info
Program Overview

With a focus on fostering cross-cultural understanding, promoting social justice, and advancing educational equity, the  Higher Education, Student Affairs, & International Education Policy–International Education Policy Concentration, Ph.D. program is for people committed to making a difference in the lives of learners around the world. If you're a forward-thinker eager to tackle complex challenges, to collaborate with diverse communities, and to drive positive social impact, then our program may be a great fit.

Over several years, you'll explore the intersection of education, policy and global development. In an era defined by rapid globalization and interconnectedness, understanding international education policy is more critical than ever. The program delves into the complex interplay between education and broader socio-economic, political, and cultural landscapes, equipping you with the tools to drive positive change on a global scale.

Key Features

  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Benefit from a holistic curriculum that integrates perspectives from economics, politics, sociology, anthropology, and other relevant disciplines to provide comprehensive understanding.
  • Flexibility: Tailor your program to match your background, interests, and career goals. Specializations include conflict and emergencies, gender and development, peace and environmental education and political economy.
  • D.C. Advantage: Located just a few miles from the nation's capital, our program offers unparalleled access to internships, employment opportunities, seminars, workshops, and renowned speakers. 
  • Global Research Opportunities: Engage in cutting-edge research initiatives and collaborative projects with international partners, gaining firsthand experience in addressing educational challenges across diverse cultural contexts.
Top 20
Best Education Policy Program by U.S. News & World Report
Learning Goals
  • Demonstrate a deep understanding of the theoretical foundations, methodologies and key debates in international education policy.
  • Apply interdisciplinary perspectives to analyze and address complex educational challenges within local, national and global contexts.
  • Design and conduct original research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field of international education policy.
  • Communicate research findings effectively to diverse audiences through scholarly publications, presentations and policy briefs.
  • Engage ethically and collaboratively with stakeholders to promote equity, social justice and sustainable development through education.
How to Apply

Information on admissions and application to this program can be found on the University Graduate Admissions website.

Admission Requirements          Guide to Applying

“Here at the IEP program at UMD, the education we get is top notch, critical, rich in diversity of experiences, backgrounds, and opinions from our IEP faculty members and fellow graduate students.”

Hiba Anwar, International Education Policy Student

Program Requirements

This program is distinguished by the development of a unique program of study to suit the needs of each student. Initial program plans are flexible and are usually revised throughout a student's graduate work as particular directions and their implications for coursework develop. The Ph.D. program allows you to specialize in one or multiple areas.

International Education Policy Handbook

A maximum of 24 credits can be transferred from a previous master’s program.

  • EDHI 605—Comparative Education 
  • EDHI 606—Political Economy of Education in a Global Context 
  • EDHI 607—Culture and Education in a Global Context  
  • EDHI 750—International Higher Education 
  • PROSEMINAR—Attendance required for the first 2 years of your program (0 credits)
  • EDHI 672 — Modes of Inquiry
  • One quantitative course
  • One qualitative course
  • Two additional courses in methodological approaches most relevant to your research focus.

Select four of the following or equivalents:

  • EDHI 680—Gender, Education, and Development 
  • EDHI 681—Education for Global Peace 
  • EDHI 682—Ecological Ethics and Education 
  • EDHI 683—World Religions and Implications for Education  
  • EDHI 684—Alternative Education, Alternative Development  
  • EDHI 788—Contemplative Inquiry and Holistic Education 
  • EDHI 788––Education in Conflict and Emergencies  
  • EDHI 788—Global Climate Change and Education 
  • EDHI 788—International Education and Cultural Exchange 
  • EDHI 788—International Investigations in Cuban Education 
  • EDHI 805––Seminar in Comparative Education 
  • EDPS 624––Culture in Education Policy and Practice 
  • EDHI 798––Special Problems in Education

Courses may be selected in the areas of public policy, communications, anthropology, economics, sociology, gender studies, higher education, early childhood education, or from elsewhere in the College of Education, the University, or the Washington Consortium.

  • EDHI889 — Internship in Education

If a student completed a previous master’s program in a related field, up to 24 credits may be eligible to apply toward the 90 required credits for the PhD program. Consult with your advisor to determine which courses/credits can be attributed. 

EDHI 898 —Pre-Candidacy Research (can be repeated)

  • EDHI 899—Dissertation Research
Contact
Zeena Zakharia headshot
Dr. Zeena Zakharia
Admissions Director
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IEP Graduate Assistant
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Carol Scott
Coordinator