PhD Program Requirements

PhD Program Requirements

If you feel that you have met any degree requirements through a previously obtained master's degree or coursework at another institution, contact your advisor to determine the correct procedure. Note that the Introduction to Doctoral Studies course requirement may not be waived. 

Minimum of 79 total credits required in the following areas: 

Core courses (minimum of 9 credits)

All PhD option areas require PRST 5610 (Intro to Doctoral Studies). In addition, doctoral students, with direction from their committees, will choose a minimum of two additional courses from the remaining five core courses: 

• PRST 5900 (Practicum in College Teaching)
• EDCI 5600 (Diversity)
• EDCI 5810 (Writing for Publication)
• EDCI 5730 (Learning and Cognition)
• EDAD 5720 (Leader as Change Agent)
• EDRE 5660 (Dissertation/Thesis Prospectus Writing)

Cognate courses and advanced courses (minimum of 18 credits) 

Advanced research courses (minimum of 12 credits) 

Dissertation Hours

All PhD Students are required to have a minimum of 12 dissertation credit hours.

Other Requirements

• Preliminary exam (after coursework is completed): Guidelines determined by program, department, or committee
• Program Outcomes: Written demonstration is required to show PhD outcomes are met (determined by program, department, or committee)
• Dissertation (after preliminary exam): Guidelines determined by program, department, or committee
• Residency (check with program area for specific requirements)

Notes: These requirements for a PhD in Education are minimum requirements only. Refer to specific program options for additional requirements, including admissions criteria. Options approved prior to May 2009 may have different requirements.