Secondary Education: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education with emphasis in Secondary Education may be completed with specializations in English, mathematics, science (biology, chemistry, physics) or social studies. The program is ninety-nine (99) hours above the bachelor's degree. Candidates in the program acquire deeper and broader skills and knowledge as they pertain to the specific content chosen and the secondary curriculum. Doctoral level classes generate and utilize research, apply research and theory in curriculum development and communicate ideas through writing and speaking with other professionals in the field.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the program must meet these requirements:

  • 3.5 GPA on all previous graduate coursework
  • 2 years teaching or relevant experience (letter from employer on letterhead)
  • NOTE REGARDING ADMISSION APPLICATIONS FOR 2021 SUMMER SESSION AND 2021 FALL SEMESTER: Due to COVID-19 precautions, standardized examinations, including the GRE, Praxis II Content Field, Praxis II PLT, are suspended for admission applications submitted for the 2021 Summer Session and 2021 Fall Semester.
  • Hold AA License (or eligibility for) in the content or related area
  • Admissions statement/Writing Sample
  • Preliminary written exam and interview
  • Two (2) Graduate Reference Forms

Application deadlines:

  • March 1 (summer and fall admission)

See the Graduate Handbook for information on completing the application process.

Career Opportunities

Graduates in the Ph.D. program with emphasis in Secondary Education may assume positions as faculty at other universities, or they may choose to return to the public secondary school arena as more knowledgeable teachers, curriculum coordinators or in other leadership roles.

Online/Regional Campus Options

The Ph.D. with emphasis in Secondary Education is only offered at the Oxford campus. There are some online courses available and a number of courses needed are taught at the regional campuses. Typically a candidate may take one third of the needed hours either online or at the regional campuses.

For More Information