Teaching and Learning, Policy and Leadership - Education Policy and Leadership Specialization, Ph.D.
The Teaching and Learning, Policy and Leadership - Education Policy and Leadership Specialization, Ph.D. program is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to become a leader in educational policy and practice. The curriculum capitalizes on diverse theoretical and methodological perspectives drawn from the social sciences and humanities, integrates formal coursework and enrichment experiences, and provides opportunities for you to carry out research that contributes to the development of more equitable and effective educational institutions. You are encouraged to include relevant courses in other specializations and in other programs outside the department. By situating education within a broader social context and employing diverse research methodologies, you are better able to gain a comprehensive understanding of education issues, policies, and practices.
Key Features
- Interdisciplinary Approach: The program integrates diverse perspectives and research methodologies from the social sciences and humanities, offering a comprehensive examination of education issues, policies and practices.
- Rare Combination: This doctoral program uniquely combines policy studies with teaching and learning, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate complex educational landscapes.
- Customized Program of Study: You have the flexibility to tailor your coursework and research to your specific interests and career goals.
- Practical Experience: Participate in enrichment experiences that provide hands-on learning and real-world application of theoretical knowledge.
- Conduct rigorous research on educational policies and practices using a variety of disciplinary perspectives and methodologies.
- Critically analyze and evaluate educational issues, policies, and practices.
- Develop and advocate for policies that promote equity and effectiveness in educational institutions.
- Apply theoretical knowledge to address real-world educational problems and contribute to the development of more equitable educational systems.
- Collaborate with a diverse community of scholars and practitioners to influence educational policy and practice.
Information on admissions and application to this program can be found on the University Graduate Admissions website and the program handbook.
The doctoral curriculum typically requires at least three years of graduate study beyond the master’s degree. Most students admitted to the doctoral program already have a master’s degree. If you do not have a master’s degree, you will need to complete a few additional courses. An advisor can help you develop an individualized plan that aligns master’s level and doctoral level coursework.
You are also expected to integrate into the campus scholarly community and to be available on a full-time basis.
For more information, please contact:
For academic advising on the Ph.D. with a specialization in Education Policy Studies, please contact:
Dr. David Blazar
dblazar@umd.edu