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Doctorate in Social Studies Education

Program Code:  PH6224

The Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education is built on a common foundation of learning theory, the social and cultural contexts of school education, curriculum and instruction theory, the moral and ethical dimensions of leadership, and quantitative and qualitative research methods. It is expected that all students completing a doctoral degree in Social Studies Education will demonstrate knowledge and skills in a common core of competencies plus an area of specialization and successfully complete a dissertation. For each individual scholar, coursework serves as the basis for investigating a significant educational issue that will advance the field of Social Studies Education and prepare him or her for future research. Every student in the Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education has the opportunity to construct a highly individualized program based on his or her career goals. Specializations are available based on the expertise of doctoral faculty. This program can be completed on a full- or part-time basis. For a full-time student, program degree completion in four years is typical, with at least two years in residence at the Athens campus of Ohio University.

Application Process

Request Info

Michael Kopish Program Coordinator Patton Hall 309R [email protected] 740.593.4421

Frans Doppen Graduate Doctoral Coordinator Patton Hall 309EE [email protected] 740.593.0254  

Program Overview

Learning outcomes.

• Demonstrate a strong foundation in the social studies subject matter.
• Gain an understanding of how PK-16 students learn and engage with social studies.
• Become familiar with research methodologies appropriate to the study of social studies education.
• Learn to use equitable and inclusive teaching and assessment practices that are responsive to diverse learners and incorporate appropriate use of technology.
• Become knowledgeable about the body of literature central to social studies education, professional preparation standards for social studies teachers, and K-12 social studies learning standards.
• Develop skills in teaching social studies methods courses for K-12 teachers or facilitating professional development for K-12 teachers.
• Develop an awareness of local and global issues relate to social studies education.
• Gain experience and knowledge in analyzing, evaluating, synthesizing research theories in social studies education, and applying them and supporting others in applying them in K-16 contexts.
• Conduct independent research in social studies education that relies on quantitative and/or qualitative research design and methodology suitable for professional publication and presentations.
• Develop awareness of current trends and issues in education broadly, and social studies education specifically, that leads to advocacy for learners and teachers.
• Be prepared to accept a university faculty position or other leadership role in the field of Social Studies Education.

Required Courses

Minimum Total Credits: 72 semester credit hours including dissertation

Foundations Core:  minimum 5 semester hours

• EDTE 8900 First-Year Doctoral Seminar (1 credit)
• A graduate level graduate level course (5000 level or above) focused on critical studies chosen in consultation with doctoral committee

Teaching & Learning Core:  minimum 15 semester hours

• EDTE 7150 Theories of Curriculum Change (3 credits)
• EDTE 7160 Theories of Instructional Change (3 credits)
• EDTE 7920 Curriculum and Instruction Practicum (6 credits)
• EDTE 8000 Advanced Dynamics of Human Learning (3 credits)

Research Core:  minimum 18 semester hours

• EDRE 7200 Educational Statistics (4 credits)
• EDRE 7330 Research Design in Education (4 credits)
• EDRE 7500 Introduction to Qualitative Methods in Education (4 credits)
• EDTE 8040 Writing for Professional Publication in Education (3 credits)
• One additional graduate-level research course chosen in consultation with student’s doctoral committee

Specialization:  minimum 15 semester hours

• EDTE 5510/L Programs and Practices in Elementary Social Studies – Practicum
• EDTE 6980/L Teaching Social Studies in Junior and Senior High
• EDTE 7500 Inquiry and Value Clarification in Social Studies
• EDTE 8500 Seminar in Social Studies Education: Curriculum
• EDTE 8510 Seminar in Social Studies Education: Program Analysis

In consultation with the chair of your doctoral committee, a minimum of three graduate courses must be earned in one of the content areas listed below.

• Anthropology
• Political Science

Dissertation:  minimum 10 semester hours

It is expected that all candidates completing a doctoral degree in the Department of Teacher Education will propose, conduct, and prepare a comprehensive written report of an individually designed research study addressing a significant educational issue that will advance the field of social studies education and will prepare the scholar for future research.

Funding Information

• Departmental funding opportunities
• Funding opportunities across the college
• Graduate College funding opportunities

Program Faculty

Frans Doppen

Mike Kopish

College of Education and Human Development

Department of Curriculum and Instruction

Social studies education MA / PhD

The MA/PhD track in social studies education span disciplines, and offers opportunities to specialize in many aspects of social studies education. The ideal candidates for the program have at least three years of teaching experience, a diverse experience, and interest in furthering education and research in social studies education. 

Graduates of the program have assumed positions as instructional leaders in the public schools, faculty colleges/universities, curriculum development specialists, cand social studies assessment specialists. Graduates leave the program prepared to teach methods courses to social studies teachers. 

Quote from George Dalbo

My experience with the faculty has been fantastic! Graduate classes are small, typically 10-12 students, which allows you to get to know faculty in a more intimate setting. Everyone I have encountered in my department has been so supportive of my development as an academic.  George Dalbo PhD 2021

As a full-time graduate student, you will have opportunities to: 

• Supervise student teachers 
• Teach introductory social studies classes 
• Conduct and publish research with faculty. Doctoral students are required to complete a research internship with one or more of the faculty as part of their study for their degree
• You will be supported and encouraged to present research papers at professional conferences, specifically the National Council for the Social Studies and the American Educational Research Association 

To view the core curriculum and electives visit the Education, Curriculum, Instruction PhD page in the course catalog, find Requirements > Program Sub-Plan Requirements > Social Studies Education.

Master of arts students

You can choose either a thesis Plan A (or final paper Plan B) to complete your degree. View the core requirements for the MA in social studies education in the course catalog . Look under sub-plans for social studies education. 

PhD curriculum

Your PhD coursework will center on your research interests. The program consists of 54 course credits and 24 doctoral thesis credits for a total of 78 credits. To see the curriculum requirements in detail visit the course catalog , find Requirements >Program Sub-Plan Requirements > Social Studies Education.  

Research opportunities

Students can engage in research that advances the field of social studies education and ties into their area of interest. Faculty work closely with each cohort to achieve research and educational goals and improve educational opportunities students. Learn more about the student research experience in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. 

Areas of research include: 

• Multicultural and gender issues 
• Critical pedagogy and social justice 
• Civic and/or historical identity 
• Immigrant education 
• Classroom dialogue 
• Children's literature in the social studies 
• Political socialization 
• Political tolerance 
• Authentic assessment 
• Citizenship and civics education 
• Democratic thought 
• History of curricula 

In addition, faculty members engage in research centered on the history of curricula, multicultural and gender studies, and social justice.

Career outlook

Graduates of the program have assumed positions as university faculty, instructional leaders in the public schools, curriculum development specialists, and social studies assessment specialists. 

• Indiana University 
• Wells College 
• George Washington University 
• St. Thomas University 
• Bemidji State University 
• College of Saint Bennedict & St. John's University 
• College of Saint Scholastica 

Jehanne Beaton Jehanne Beaton

• DirecTrack to Education Coordinator
• she, her, hers
• [email protected]

Jehanne Beaton has worked as a secondary social studies teacher in the public schools for more than twenty years, the bulk of which has been spent in diverse, urban classrooms in Minneapolis. She holds an M.F.A.

Justin Grinage Justin Grinage

• Assistant Professor
• [email protected]

The focus of my research centers on analyzing processes of racialization in school and classroom spaces through several areas of inquiry including critical whiteness studies, Black education, neoliberal multiculturalism, and critical literacy.

Jeff Henning-Smith Jeff Henning-Smith

• Senior Lecturer
• he, him, his
• [email protected]

Jeff Henning-Smith is a Senior Lecturer in the Elementary Education and Social Studies program areas.

J.B. Mayo J.B. Mayo

• Associate Professor
• 612-309-6018
• [email protected]

I am an Associate Professor in social studies education. I hold a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of South Florida, where my focus of study was gender and sexuality within the social studies, specifically on the formation and…

Robert Poch Robert Poch

• Researcher 6
• 612-625-5836
• [email protected]

What motivates me in my work? The exploration of challenging questions concerning human diversity is a strong motivating force in my teaching and research.

Ramon Vasquez Ramon Vasquez

• [email protected]

Dr. Vasquez is an Assistant Professor of Critical Elementary Education. Before working in higher education, he served as an elementary school teacher in California.

How to apply

Application deadline and instructions.

Priority deadline : December 1 for admission to the fall of the following year Admissions decisions : January

Applications submitted after this date are considered on a case-by-case basis and may not be reviewed until the following year. Faculty review applications in mid-late December, and the Graduate School will notify applicants about admission decisions shortly thereafter. Final admission decisions are based on complete applications. All application materials must be included for the application to be released for review.

Before applying online , go through the application checklist to ensure you have all the required materials. We are here to help! If you have questions, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator . If you are a returning Graduate School student, follow the Readmission guidelines . If you are a current Graduate School student and need to change your program, follow the Change of Status guidelines.

Tuition and funding

We have several funding options to support students full-time through program completion. Support is available in the form of:

• Teaching Assistantships. The majority work as student teaching supervisors for MEd initial licensure students. Daytime availability, a teaching license, and teaching experience are required
• Research Assistantships
• Fellowships. Based on a departmental nomination process. You will be notified by the Director of Graduate Studies if you are being considered for a fellowship. Decisions are made by April 15.
• Graduate students are also eligible to apply for fellowships and graduate assistantships through other University departments. Visit the University's employment page or fellowships through the Graduate School's Graduate Fellowship Office .
• Find more detailed federal financial aid and graduate tuition information.

Application requirements

What we look for.

Admission to our master's of arts and doctoral programs are competitive and we look for candidates whose goals and interests align with the program’s research and scholarship. Program faculty make admissions decisions based on the candidate’s experience and research competencies, along with compatibility of research goals.

Please look at our current faculty members’ research interests.

Our masters and doctoral candidates display

• Evidence of strong interest in research and in the development of research competencies
• Evidence of substantial experience in the discipline
• Strong writing skills
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. institution or foreign equivalent

Required application documents

• Unofficial transcripts .Upload your transcripts into the application system. Please include all transcripts from any institution you have attended, even if you did not earn a degree or certificate. Please do not mail your transcripts. Official transcripts are required only after you are admitted. Tips for uploading your transcript(s) .
• CI Application Form . Upload in the graduate program additional materials section.
• Three letters of recommendation . Ask professors, employers, or supervisors to speak to your potential for successfully completing your degree; they will upload their letters directly into the online application.

The GRE is being waived for those applicants applying for Fall 2024.

Required written statements

• Why you want to study in our department
• What strengths, expertise, and research experience would contribute to your success in our program
• Your professional goals for pursuing a research-focused degree
• Diversity statement .Upload to the Applicant Statements section of the online application. Identify the distinctive qualities, characteristics, and life experiences you would contribute to our community. You may wish to include examples that address your contribution to the diversity of the student body and illustrate your motivation to succeed by setting high standards for accomplishing intellectual and other goals, overcoming obstacles to achievement, and/or helping others to gain access to the resources necessary for success. (please do not exceed one page in length)
• Short writing sample .(Optional except for Literacy Education applicants). For example, an excerpt from a term paper or research paper for publication. No longer than five pages in English.
• Common Ground Consortium Fellowship. (Optional) The primary purpose of the CGC is to assist graduate programs in the College of Education and Human Development to recruit exceptional students with the distinct experience provided by HBCUs or similarly distinguishing contexts, provide these students with financial assistance support during their graduate studies, and assistance with career development and job placement afterwards. It offers a pipeline to excellence and an opportunity to diversify perspectives in the academy. If you wish to apply, submit a statement that describes how your participation as a CGC scholar would a) enhance your graduate student experience, b) prepare you for your chosen career, and c) benefit the public. Upload to graduate program additional materials section.

Additional admissions information

Application checklist.

Before applying online , go through the application checklist to ensure you have all the required materials. We are here to help! If you have questions, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator .

If you are a returning Graduate School student, follow the Readmission guidelines. If you are a current Graduate School student and need to change your program, follow the Change of Status guidelines .

Transfer credits

MA students must complete at least 60 percent of their coursework (not including thesis credits) within our program. PhD students may transfer no more than 15 credits from an outside institution.

A maximum of 12 graduate course credits taken as non-degree seeking or non-admitted status at the University of Minnesota can be transferred; this is counted separately from the maximum 60 percent or 15 non-UMN credits. For example, a PhD student could transfer a maximum of 27 credits (15 non-UMN and 12 non-degree from UMN).

If you earned a MA at the UMN, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator to discuss transfer procedures. Thesis credits cannot be transferred.

After you are admitted, you will work with your adviser to determine which credits may transfer.

International applicants

International applicants may also need:

• An English translation of your transcripts, if the transcript is not in English. Please note: the Graduate School Admissions Office will not accept an evaluation of your international coursework by an outside agency such as ECE or WES; they only accept the original transcripts.
• TOEFL/IELTS or MELAB. You may qualify for an exception if you have completed 16 semester or 24 quarter credits within the past 24 months in residence as a full-time student at an accredited institution of higher learning in the United States or other country where English is the official language (i.e. U.K, Canada). Score requirements and submission guidelines

Request information

We’re here to help. Simply complete one of these forms and a member of our department will be in touch

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Studies Education

Graduate Programs

Beginning Ph. D. students can demonstrate the competencies through previous coursework  in conjunction with an oral interview with social studies education faculty about that coursework. Among the courses that could demonstrate competency include those in:

• History of Social Studies Education
• Theories of Social Studies Education
• Measurement and Research Design
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Learning Theories
• Multicultural Education
• Social Foundations of Education
• Teaching and Learning
• Curriculum Theory
• International Education
• Content courses drawn from the disciplines (e.g., advanced courses in economics, history, geography, political science, etc.)

This residential program has rolling admission . Applications must be fully complete, submitted, and all application fees paid prior to the deadline in order for applications to be considered and reviewed.

July 1 is the deadline for Fall applications.

November 15 is the deadline for Spring applications.

March 15 is the deadline for Summer applications.

This program does not lead to licensure in the state of Indiana or elsewhere. Contact the College of Education Office of Teacher Education and Licensure (OTEL) at [email protected] before continuing with program application if you have questions regarding licensure or contact your state Department of Education about how this program may translate to licensure in your state of residence.

Application Instructions for the residential Social Studies Education PhD program from the Office of Graduate Studies :

In addition to a submitted application (and any applicable application fees paid), the following materials are required for admission consideration, and all completed materials must be submitted by the application deadline in order for an application to be considered complete and forwarded on to faculty and the Purdue Graduate School for review.

Here are the materials required for this application

• Transcripts (from all universities attended)
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• 3 Recommendations
• Resume/CV preferred
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal History Statement
• International Applicants must meet English Proficiency Requirements set by the Purdue Graduate School

We encourage prospective students submit an application early, even if not all required materials are uploaded. Applications are not forwarded on for faculty review until all required materials are uploaded.

When submitting your application for this program, please select the following options:

• Select a Campus: Purdue West Lafayette (PWL)
• Select your proposed graduate major: Curriculum and Instruction
• Please select an Area of Interest: Social Studies Education
• Please select a Degree Objective: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Primary Course Delivery: Residential

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

PhD in Education (Social Studies Education)

With this doctoral emphasis in social studies education, you will study theoretical and disciplinary areas, problems, and practices related to the field as part of your doctoral degree. Our primary focus with this emphasis is the continuing development of theory and research on teaching and learning of the social studies as they exist within and beyond formal school settings including P-12, post-secondary, and community education spaces.

Just as there are a variety of disciplines within, and approaches to, social studies education, there are many possibilities available for doctoral study. Our faculty members borrow from various research methodologies (e.g., narrative inquiry, design-based research, self-study, critical theory methodologies, and discourse analysis) and a variety of theoretical perspectives (pragmatism, critical theory, critical race theory, psychoanalytic theory) to focus research in social studies education. Please refer to faculty bios for an introduction to the breadth of research and expertise in our program.

Our graduates go on to research and clinical faculty positions in colleges and universities, teacher leadership positions, social studies positions in schools, and community educational spaces.

• Home to nationally recognized and award-winning faculty.
• Work with faculty on cutting-edge education research.
• Integrate theory and practice to support educational change.

About the Program

What is a phd degree in social studies education.

• A PhD (doctor of philosophy) is a degree program through which you become a scholar and leader in the field of social studies education. That can mean a lot of things, and it can take place in a variety of settings. Mostly, though, it means that you become a participant in local, national, and even international dialogue about social studies education.
• A doctoral program is unlike any other degree program because it is much more than just a series of prescribed courses with a final project. There are courses to take, but these are meant to assist in your development as a thinker, teacher, and researcher. Courses comprise roughly half of your doctoral program—the other half consists of your supported but independent work as a researcher that culminates in your dissertation.
• For us, social studies education is a broad term to represent interdisciplinary inquiries into the relationship between education and the social, cultural, and political world. We do this through historical, economic, geographic, and cultural lenses informed by a wide variety of theories.
• We are interested in creating a vibrant intellectual community that seeks to understand and confront the fraught social and political challenges educators currently face. As a doctoral student in this program, you will be an integral part of, and contributor to, such a community.

Why would someone get a PhD in social studies education?

• One reason is to attain a position as an education faculty member at a college or university. Many of these positions are a mix of teaching and research. Recent graduates of our programs who have pursued this path have gotten jobs in colleges of education at Auburn University, Kennesaw State University, Alaska Pacific University, Florida State University, and Central Michigan University.
• Another reason is to deepen and enrich your understanding of the conditions of the work of teaching. Several of our recent students have pursued their doctoral work while continuing to teach full time and remain in the classroom upon completing their PhD. Others have been recognized as instructional and curriculum leaders. Some of these graduates have gone to to serve as department chairs and curriculum and instructional coaches at the school and/or district level.
• A third reason is to position oneself for leadership roles in community organizations, NGO’s, non-profits, or other educational settings. Our program faculty are committed to supporting each individual student in meeting their unique personal and professional goals.

What would it look like to get my PhD in social studies education at UGA?

There is no “one way” to go. If you’re interested, the best thing to do is reach out to talk about your specific interest and goals. With that in mind:

• Full time doctoral work can be an amazing experience. You get to take advantage of the vibrant intellectual and educational community here in the College and across campus. To do this, most people need a graduate teaching assistantship (GTA). With a GTA, you are a fully contributing member of our initial certification programs working with pre-service social studies teachers as their seminar instructors and/or onsite field instructors. These also come with a stipend of around $20k annually, and they come with a full tuition waiver. Classes are covered, in other words, and you build your experience to help meet your next career goals.
• Part-time doctoral work can also be an amazing experience. You become connected to colleagues from across the state, nation and world who are interested in advancing their own and others’ understandings of social studies education. These connections and relationships can become a lifelong network of folks with similar goals and aspirations for their careers and the experiences of learners in public and private institutions around social studies and civic education.

The program of study includes at least 42 hours of coursework, a comprehensive examination, a dissertation prospectus, and a dissertation. Required coursework includes four dedicated seminars attending to historical and contemporary issues in social studies education. You will also take at least four research methods courses, determined in consultation with your advisory committee. You are encouraged to take as many research methods courses as needed to accomplish your research.

Your remaining coursework, at least 18 credit hours, will help prepare you to think deeply about and conduct research on your specific interests within the field. These electives may be from within or outside the College, and might include courses in women’s studies, language and literacy, student learning and development, educational foundations, education policy, history, economics, political science, geography, anthropology, sociology, critical studies, and philosophy.

Additional information and disclosures regarding state licensure for professional practice in this field can be found at the UGA Licensure Disclosure Portal .

Testimonials

Working on my PhD in social studies education at UGA has given me more language and tools to understand and make meaning of my experiences as a high school social studies teacher. Furthermore, I have had the opportunity to think critically about the work of social studies and its relationship to democracy, environmentalism, and ethics, preparing me for a future inside and outside of academia. Throughout this process, I’ve felt supported and empowered by a fabulous faculty and wonderful peers. Morgan Tate, current doctoral candidate

I can sum up my PhD experience with UGA’s social studies education program in two words: expanding and affirming. The coursework expanded my knowledge about contemporary social studies education and exposed me to social theory that expanded my understanding of the social world. My mentors in the program also affirmed my capacities and contributions throughout the process. They never let me forget that I could do hard things and that my ideas were important. Amelia Wheeler (PhD '22), teacher at Joy Village School in Athens, Georgia

The PhD in social studies education program gave me a great education to help see and understand the classroom better. From coursework in theories and content, to opportunities to talk about research and collaborate with faculty and other students, the program provides tons of educative experiences and a great community to work with! Jesus Tirado (PhD '19), assistant professor of social studies education at Auburn University

How to Apply

Part 1: apply to the university of georgia.

The Graduate School handles admission for all graduate programs at the University of Georgia, including those in the College of Education. The Graduate School website contains important details about the application process, orientation, and many other useful links to guide you through the process of attending UGA at the graduate level.

Start a Graduate School Application

Part 2: Apply to the Degree Program

After filling out your application to the Graduate School, please submit the following directly to the graduate programs office:

• Why doctoral education is being pursued
• The questions and/or commitments about teaching, learning, and schooling pushing you to further your education
• What experiences, readings, theories, and/or research inform these questions and commitments
• Why the doctoral emphasis in social studies education at UGA is an appropriate place to pursue such questions (possibly including how your interests align with faculty in the program)
• Personal and professional goals for obtaining a PhD degree in social studies education
• A writing sample that demonstrates the applicant’s ability for scholarly writing and engagement with intellectual ideas
• A resume or curriculum vitae
• Please note that at least one of the three references you provide to the Graduate School should be a university faculty member who can attest to your academic potential, preferably from the master’s level

Deadline to Apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

However, applications received by January 1 (for Fall admissions) and October 1 (for Spring and Summer admissions) will receive full consideration for funding opportunities.

Log into Existing Application

Additional Resources

Please use our online form if you have any questions for the department. Please be as specific as possible so that we may quickly assist you.

• Doctoral Assistantship Application (Due by January 15th)

The College’s programs are taught by dedicated faculty who are experts in a range of areas and are passionate about helping students succeed both in their programs and professionally.

Meet the Faculty

Most graduate students at UGA are not assigned to a faculty advisor until after admittance. A close working relationship with your advisor is paramount to progressing through your program of study.

Almost all in-state students begin their studies at UGA paying limited tuition or fees. Please note that these amounts are subject to change and are meant to give prospective students an idea of the costs associated with a degree at the University of Georgia College of Education.

Students may qualify for a variety of assistantships, scholarships, and other financial awards to help offset the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses.

Tuition Rates   Browse Financial Aid

Doctoral students have the opportunity to attend academic conferences and develop their capacity to produce research in local, national, and international contexts. Graduate students can also participate in a number of student organizations, including the Feminist Scholars-Activist and the Graduate Student Organization.

Most full-time students can apply for and receive a graduate assistantship.

See for yourself how much UGA College of Education has to offer! Schedule a tour of campus to learn more about the UGA student experience.

Schedule A Visit

Useful Links

• Download PhD Handbook
• Emphasis Area Descriptions

2024 Best Online PhD in Social Science Programs

If you are an analytical individual with a drive to help others, you might consider earning a PhD in Social Science.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

This degree is also a beneficial option for anyone who is interested in building their research abilities, understanding global communities, and developing a set of transferable skills.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Social Science Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University offers a PhD in Social Welfare. This is an on-campus program that can be enrolled in full-time or part-time. Coursework can typically be completed in 2 years by full-time students and 3 years by part-time students. Students are also required to complete a dissertation.

Case Western Reserve University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers a Doctorate in Public Administration and Policy. It requires the completion of 49 credit hours. The program covers how to conduct policy analyses, design and conduct research studies in public administration, and report research findings and their implications. Online courses are live and follow a regular schedule. ODU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University offers a PhD in Social Studies Education program that is designed to prepare students for working in teacher education at the postsecondary level. Classes can be taken on campus or online. Courses include Research on Social Studies Education, Teaching and Learning Historical Literacy with Media, and Historical Nonfiction for Teaching History.

The Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University at Buffalo

The University at Buffalo offers a Doctor of Social Work that can be earned fully online as a part-time student. The program requires the completion of 39 credits and is aimed at experienced social workers. It incorporates a trauma-informed and human rights perspective. Students may start in the fall semester only.

The University at Buffalo is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers both a Doctor of Philosophy in Human Services and a Doctor of Psychology. Online students may take just one course at a time, and courses are 6 or 9 weeks long. Up to 30 approved credits may be transferred into the program. University of Arizona’s doctoral programs emphasize research and social justice matters.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Tennessee – Knoxville

The University of Tennessee—Knoxville offers a Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice and Leadership. The online program includes three years of rigorous coursework, with two classes each semester. Online students must also spend one week each summer on campus in Knoxville.

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania offers a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work. Online students may complete their coursework and dissertations simultaneously and can usually finish within 3 years. Online classes meet two evenings each week for two hours. The program also includes on-campus immersion experiences.

The  University of Pennsylvania  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Southern California

The University of Southern California offers an online Doctorate of Social Work. The program aims to help students learn how to develop practical, applied solutions to large-scale social challenges. The standard track is nine semesters, and the accelerated track is seven semesters. The program is fully online with no required fieldwork, clinicals, or internships. The University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior College and University Commission.

Walden University

Walden University offers a PhD in Social Work. Students may choose a specialization in Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision, Impact Leadership in Social Work Administration, or Social Work Education. This is a research-based program designed for working professionals. Students begin focusing on their dissertations from the first course.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Wilmington University

Wilmington University offers a Doctor of Social Science in Prevention Science. This is an interdisciplinary program that includes the study of public health, human development, developmental psychopathology, education, behavioral sciences, and more. It requires the completion of thirteen courses for a total of 39-48 credits.

Wilmington University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

PhD in Social Science Programs

Similar to a master’s in social science program, in a PhD program, there are many disciplines that fall under the umbrella of social science. The following are some typical areas that you may choose to focus on as you earn your doctorate degree. Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

Anthropology

Human services.

Regardless of the specialty you select, you will still receive a strong foundation in social science and related courses.

At its core, a degree in anthropology centers around the study of humankind. Not only will you have the opportunity to research historical communities and cultures, but you will also examine modern-day societies as well.

Learning to conduct effective research and using information about the past to impact the future are important parts of this degree. After earning a PhD in Anthropology, there are a number of career options available. Many graduates go on to work in the fields of museum curation, government, education, and social work.

Students earning a PhD in History can develop expertise in analyzing and conducting historical research. Many programs also focus on building conscientious leaders and teachers. You can use the lessons you learn about the past to educate and inform the decisions you make about the present and future. A degree in this field can lead to a wide variety of career paths.

Many graduates pursue careers as educators, research fellows, historians, and policy analysts. Because doctoral history programs require a high attention to detail and strong writing skills, some graduates also find jobs as authors or archivists.

A doctoral degree in human services can provide you with a deeper look into the work and impact that human service organizations provide. You will likely leave with a working knowledge of the ethical guidelines in the field and with leadership skill sets.

Careers in this field typically serve the community and improve the lives of the individuals who inhabit them. Depending on your previous educational background, you may choose to do several different things with a PhD in Human Services. An eligibility worker supervisor, specialist director, and licensed clinical social worker are just a few examples of the career paths available in this field.

Students who are working toward their PhD in Sociology will study societies and social interactions. Programs in this field usually prepare you for work in teaching or research.

Graduates tend to go on to become teachers or researchers, but there are other options available as well. For example, you may choose to pursue work in a medical health center or a government agency. Most PhD professionals in this field end up in a nonprofit or research-based organization.

A doctoral degree in psychology will look different depending on the specialty that you choose. Doctoral psychology programs typically offer an opportunity to conduct extensive scientific research and to strengthen your skills in this area. You will often pair this research with real-world practicum experience.

Because you can tailor a degree in psychology to fit your interests, there are a wide variety of potential career paths. Some professionals choose to become teachers, counselors, and social workers. Others pursue positions as clinical psychologists.

Social Science Careers & Salaries

With a social science doctoral degree, there are a wide range of potential career paths that you may take. The positions that you are qualified for will vary depending on your specific area of study within your social science PhD program.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics , here are the annual median salaries for common careers within the social sciences.

Because you can tailor this degree to fit your interests, it can often lead to work that is personally fulfilling. With options in a variety of sectors, such as nonprofit or private, you can help your community in the way that feels best to you.

Social Sciences Doctorate Curriculum & Courses

While each university has its own unique curriculum, there are typical classes within each discipline that you may take as you complete your doctorate in social sciences.

Here are some common courses that may be offered:

• History Research : In this course, you’ll learn methods of effective research specific to social studies as well as how to identify and analyze credible sources.
• Historical Methods : This course focuses on using primary sources to conduct research and write about findings.
• Ethnographic and Qualitative Methods : Focusing on fieldwork methods, this course explores topics such as project design, observation, and data-collection and analysis.
• Development of Anthropological Thought : In this course, you’ll learn about the evolution of anthropological thought, including the ways in which scientific and intellectual thought-patterns have changed.
• Foundations and Methods of Psychology : This course is a foundational exploration of the history of psychology, and it takes a deeper look into the research tools and methods used to conduct psychological studies.
• Development of Human Behavior : This course examines the ways in which external events impact human reactions.
• Grant Writing : This course dissects the process of grant writing and details each step, including the statement of need and executive summary.
• Human Service s Theory : This course examines modern approaches to research in the human services field, and you’ll also learn to design ethically informed research projects.
• Sociological Theories of Development : This course provides a study of the history of sociological theories as well as an overview of key figures and important dates.
• Dissertation : Most PhD programs close with a dissertation. This course will be a chance for you to learn about the dissertation writing process and begin plans for your own work.

Your own curriculum and coursework will be specific to the university that you attend.

Doctor of Social Science Admissions Requirements

Although every university is unique in their admissions criteria, here are some of the typical requirements for doctoral programs:

• GRE or GMAT scores, if required
• Master’s degree
• Minimum GPA from previous programs
• Letters of recommendation

In addition to these criteria, many schools ask you to pay a small application fee. You may also be asked to provide additional documents, such as an admissions essay or employment records. It’s strategic to check the specific admissions requirements for your schools of interest prior to applying.

Accreditation

Although accreditation is a voluntary process, it can say a lot about the quality of education that a school offers. Regionally accredited programs consist of a staff and educational materials that are considered to be up to standard.

Regional accreditation can be an important factor to look for during your school search. In addition to the instructional benefits you can receive, employers often favor candidates who have completed an accredited degree program.

You can check if a school is regionally accredited by visiting the website of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) .   

Financial Aid and Scholarships

As you apply to various doctoral programs in social sciences, it can be helpful to consider available financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Federal aid is granted to individuals based on a set of eligibility requirements. You can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at no cost to you to determine how much aid you qualify for. Federal financial assistance can come in several forms, including direct unsubsidized loans, grants, and work-study programs.

In addition to federal aid, you may also be eligible for state aid, scholarships, or employee education benefit programs. You can check the financial aid guidelines for your specific state, university, or employer for specific details.

What Can You Do with a Social Science PhD Degree?

Because there are so many topics within the social sciences major , a PhD degree in this field can lead to a wide range of career opportunities.

Many professionals who earn their doctorate degree in a social science field go on to provide essential services to their communities. For instance, some work as chief executives, social workers, or psychologists. Others choose to enter into the worlds of education and history as professors, historians, or museum curators.

Every individual’s path post-graduation will look different. There are a number of factors that can impact your career path and salary, such as your work experience, specialty area, employer, and location.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Social Science Doctoral Degree?

It typically takes 3 to 5 years to complete a PhD program, but the length of time can vary based on the required number of credits and how long it takes you to complete your dissertation.

Doctoral programs that do not require a dissertation may be completed in as little as 3 years with full-time enrollment. Alternatively, if you attend part-time, it may take you longer to complete your degree.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD in Social Science vs. Humanities Degree?

It can be helpful to think of social sciences as a scientific approach to studying human nature and communities, while the humanities take an analytical approach.

The program that is right for you will depend on several factors, including your career goals and your individual interests.

Is a Social Science PhD Worth It?

Yes, a social science PhD is worth it for many students. There are so many potential areas of study within the field of social sciences, and you can tailor your degree to fit your personal interests and career goals. Each area of focus provides a unique way to help develop and assist your community.

In addition to a variety of career options, employment in life, physical, and social science occupations is expected to grow 8% over the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). A PhD can also help you qualify for positions in research and academia.

Getting Your PhD in Social Science Online

Earning your PhD in Social Sciences can open up doors to new opportunities. Many professionals who earn their social science degrees leave with a deeper understanding of the interactions between individuals and their communities. They often go on to impact the lives of the people around them through the services they provide.

If you are passionate about using science and research to help others, a Ph.D. in Social Science may be the right degree path for you. A growing number of accredited universities now also offer credible PhD programs online, allowing for more convenience and flexibility.

You can get started today by researching doctoral programs in your chosen field.

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Education, culture, and society, doctor of philosophy (ph.d.), you are here, interdisciplinary doctoral research on the social and cultural dimensions of education ..

The Ph.D. in Education, Culture, and Society provides a rigorous theoretical and methodological framework for the study of education, focusing on social, cultural, political, and normative dimensions. Following a rich academic curriculum centered in social theory and qualitative research methods, the program invites students to interrogate and contribute to scholarship on the social and cultural contexts of learning, both inside and outside of schools.

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

In the Education, Culture, and Society Ph.D. program, students become part of a professional academic community—through their research apprenticeship, formal coursework, informal seminars, cross-cohort experiences, and research group participation.

Fall: 4 courses; Spring: 4 courses

Research apprenticeship 20 hours per week, working on active faculty research project

Culminating experience Dissertation

Transfer courses accepted Up to six courses with faculty approval

The Education, Culture, and Society Ph.D. program explores educational processes, in and out of schools, focusing on their social, cultural, political, and normative dimensions. Research and teaching in this program interrogates tacit presuppositions about human nature and society that lie behind both popular and academic understandings of education, hoping to illuminate educational problems and prospects in more productive ways.

Education, Culture, and Society provides various tools to facilitate such interrogation: strong grounding in social theories that conceptualize the human world; study of theories and methods from such academic disciplines as anthropology, history, philosophy, political economics, and sociology; exposure to ways of life practiced in other parts of the world and to the rapid change brought by the increased movement of people and ideas in the contemporary world; and practice with ethnography and other methods that allow researchers to discover others’ categories and practices instead of imposing their own. 

The doctoral program in Education, Culture, and Society not only provides a powerful theoretical and methodological framework for the study of education, but also helps students develop a foundation upon which new models of education can be built. Following a rich academic curriculum centered on social theory and qualitative research methods, the program invites students to interrogate and contribute to the scholarship on the social and cultural contexts of learning, both inside and outside of schools.

The Ph.D. program includes formal courses, mentored research, and informal seminars. Students must complete 16 courses and participate in a mentored research apprenticeship. To complete the course of study, students take a set of written examinations in their area of specialization and complete a dissertation on a problem in education.

Most students supplement their educational studies with significant coursework in a discipline of their choosing, including anthropology, sociology, history, urban studies, philosophy, or linguistics. It is possible to pursue a joint Ph.D. degree in Education and Anthropology, Sociology, Political Science, Africana Studies, or History.

For information on courses and requirements, visit the  Education, Culture, and Society Ph.D. program in the University Catalog .

Sample Courses

Co re and foundations courses.

• Doctoral Proseminar on Education Research (required)

Introductory Methods Courses

Methods courses prepare students in both the practical and theoretical implications of collecting, interpreting, analyzing, and presenting data on the human condition broadly—and education/learning in particular. Options include courses such as:

• Introductory Statistics for Educational Research (housed in the Division of Quantitative Methods)
• Qualitative Modes of Inquiry (Doctoral Level)

Advanced Methods Courses

Advanced courses build on introductory ones. Options include courses such as:

• Craft of Ethnography
• Advanced Qualitative and Case Study Research
• Methods of Discourse Analysis
• Ethnographic Research Methods

Sample Social Theory Courses

Theory courses are centrally concerned with preparing students to draw on, understand, and contrast theoretical frameworks within the context of seminal scholarly figures and traditions. Options include courses such as:

• Culture/Power/Subjectivities 

Berkowitz Fellowship in History of Education

Jonathan Zimmerman, a professor of the history of education in Penn GSE’s literacy, culture, and international education division, has been named the Judy & Howard Berkowitz Professor in Education. Using the proceeds from the Berkowitz Chair, Dr. Zimmerman is launching the Berkowitz Fellowship in History of Education beginning Fall 2021. It will help fund a fifth year of study for doctoral students who are admitted in tandem to the Graduate School of Education and the School of Arts & Sciences department of history, where Dr. Zimmerman holds a secondary appointment. Berkowitz Fellows will receive a joint Ph.D. in education and history, the only funded joint degree between a school of education and a history department in the United States. Those pursuing joint doctoral study with Education, Culture, and Society and Penn’s Department of History may be eligible to extend their funding through the Berkowitz Fellowship. Interested candidates should contact Professor Jonathan Zimmerman at [email protected] .

Our Faculty

Our faculty bring together expertise in philosophy, anthropology, sociology, and history as scholars in education. Please contact our program for information on selecting a faculty advisor. 

Affiliated Faculty

Our affiliated faculty members are valued as part of our intellectual community, and students are encouraged to take their courses and connect on research matters and for mentorship. 

Asif Agha Professor of Anthropology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of Chicago

Nikhil Anand Associate Professor of Anthropology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., Stanford University

Mia Bay Roy F. and Jeannette P. Nichols Professor of American History, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., Yale University

Nicole Mittenfelner Carl Director, Urban Teaching Residency Program Ed.D., University of Pennsylvania

Camille Z. Charles Walter H. and Leonore C. Annenberg Professor in the Social Sciences, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of California, Los Angeles

Karen Detlefsen Vice Provost for Education Ph.D., University of Toronto

Ameena Ghaffar-Kucher Senior Lecturer Ed.D., Teachers College, Columbia University

Leigh Llewellyn Graham Lecturer Ph.D., Columbia University

Mauro F. Guillén William H. Wurster Professor of Multinational Management, The Wharton School Ph.D., Yale University

Amy Gutmann Former President and Christopher H. Browne Distinguished Professor of Political Science, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., Harvard University

Emily Hannum Professor of Sociology and Education, School of Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of Michigan 

Jessie Harper Lecturer, MSW Program, Penn Social Policy & Practice Ed.D., University of Pennsylvania

Jasmine Harris Professor of Law, Penn Carey Law J.D., Yale Law School

Nancy H. Hornberger Professor Emerita of Education Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Madison

Richard M. Ingersoll Professor of Education and Sociology Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

John L. Jackson, Jr. Provost Ph.D., Columbia University

Jerry A. Jacobs Professor of Sociology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., Harvard University

Michael C. Johanek Senior Fellow Ed.D., Teachers College, Columbia University

Andrea M. Kane Professor of Practice, Education Leadership Ph.D., Northcentral University

Annette Lareau Professor of Sociology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley

Kristina Lyons Assistant Professor of Anthropology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of California, Davis

Ranah McKay Associate Professor of History and Sociology of Science, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., Stanford University

Jennifer Morton Presidential Penn Compact Associate Professor of Philosophy Ph.D., Stanford University

Hyunjoon Park Korea Foundation Professor of Sociology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of Wisconsin, Madison

Alex Posecznick Adjunct Associate Professor Ph.D., Teachers College, Columbia University

John L. Puckett Professor Emeritus of Education Ph.D., University of North Carolina

Rogers Smith Christopher H. Browne Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Political Science, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., Harvard University

Deborah Thomas R. Jean Brownlee Professor of Anthropology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., New York University

Greg Urban Arthur Hobson Quinn Professor of Anthropology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of Chicago

Daniel A. Wagner UNESCO Chair in Learning and Literacy Ph.D., University of Michigan

Our Graduates

The Ph.D. in Education, Culture, and Society prepares students for careers as researchers, particularly within universities, but also in research institutes, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.

Alumni Careers

• Assistant Professor, Cleveland State University
• Assistant Professor, Emory University
• Assistant Professor, Stanford University
• Clinical Associate Professor, NYU Center for Global Affairs
• Global Director of Talent Development, Genworth Financial Faculty, American University
• Lead Researcher and Policy Analyst, United Federation of Teachers
• Lecturer, Columbia University
• Professor, Villanova University
• Visiting Assistant Professor, Swarthmore College

Admissions & Financial Aid

Please visit our Admissions and Financial Aid pages for specific information on the application requirements , as well as information on tuition, fees, financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

Graduate School of Education University of Pennsylvania 3700 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 898-6415 [email protected] [email protected]

Alex Posecznick, Ph.D. Program Manager and Associated Faculty (215) 573-3947 [email protected] 

Paula Rogers Program Assistant (215) 898-5023 [email protected]

Please view information from our Admissions and Financial Aid Office for specific information on the cost of this program.

All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

Related News & Research

Penn gse faculty projects awarded grants by penn global.

As teacher shortages rise, experts share tailored solutions

New books by Penn GSE faculty tackle burnout immunity, fostering community-based research

Jobs for the Future leader discusses education–workforce pathways with Penn GSE community

Ethnography in Education Research Forum

Convened by the Center for Urban Ethnography at Penn GSE since 1980, the Ethnography in Education Research Forum is the largest annual meeting of qualitative researchers in education.

Urban Education Journal

The Penn GSE Perspectives on Urban Education journal is an electronic, student-run publication and interactive forum to investigate critical issues in urban education.

You May Be Interested In

Related programs.

• Education, Culture, and Society M.S.Ed.
• Reading/Writing/Literacy Ph.D.
• Reading/Writing/Literacy Ed.D.
• Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development Ph.D.
• Education Policy Ph.D.

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College of Education & Human Development

University of missouri, social studies education (phd).

This degree is a Doctorate of Philosophy in the Department of Learning, Teaching & Curriculum with an emphasis in Social Studies Education .

This degree is part of the Social Studies Education Program housed in the Department of Learning, Teaching and Curriculum .

The PhD in social studies education provides you increased opportunities to assume leadership roles in a variety of academic, knowledge-driven and/or governmental and politically-based institutions and organizations.

In dialogue with faculty members, you help co-direct the structure of your PhD experience. This occurs in two ways:

• You are given flexibility in the design of your own coursework, research endeavors and scholarship.
• You are given a say in how the program is operated by voting on coursework requirements, expectations for the program and program goals.

This degree is only offered on campus and does not lead to certification.

Degree Requirements

In order to receive a PhD in social studies education, you must complete a minimum of 72 hours of coursework beyond a bachelor’s degree. This coursework includes a minimum of 12 hours of social studies core courses, a minimum of 9 hours of research method courses and your dissertation.

Admission Requirements

You must meet two sets of minimum qualifications in order to be considered for admission:

• LTC requirements
• Office of Graduate Studies requirements

A committee of faculty members reviews your application’s credentials. You are not guaranteed admission even if you meet the minimum qualifications.

How to Apply

You must submit the following materials to the  Department of Learning, Teaching and Curriculum via the online Graduate Studies application :

• Unofficial transcript
• Statement of Purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• TOEFL scores (international students only)

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Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction – Specialization in Teacher Education and Curriculum Studies (Social Studies Focus)

Social studies education.

This program is designed for students who wish to work as professors who will prepare social studies teachers or to work as part of government agencies or nonprofit organizations focusing on social studies.

As a student you'll work closely with faculty to become familiar with scholarship in the field, to undertake mentored and independent research projects, and to become part of the wider community of scholars.

The program emphasizes areas such as preparation for democratic civic participation; history teaching and learning; gender, diversity, and equity in social education; and teacher education.

As part of the Curriculum Studies program, the Social Studies Ph.D. Track prepares you for a career as a university researcher, a teacher educator, or a social studies specialist in governmental and nonprofit educational organizations. You’ll develop a deep understanding of a variety of theoretical perspectives, research methods, and curricular approaches, and you’ll have the chance to work in schools and research projects locally, nationally, or internationally. IU’s doctoral program in social studies has a long and distinguished tradition, and you’ll be joining a vibrant community of faculty and students who are expanding the boundaries of theory and research in social studies education.

Application Deadlines

Admission requirements.

The Graduate Studies Office will accept unofficial transcripts and self-reported test scores for admission reviews. Any admission made with these documents would be conditioned on receipt of official documents, which should be provided as soon as possible.

If you are currently enrolled or have applied in the past year, you are eligible for a reduced application fee of $35. Learn more »

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 out of 4.00
• Personal statement
• Resume (required from international students only)
• Two letters of recommendation
• Minimum 79 TOEFL score or minimum 6.5 IELTS score or minimum 115 Duolingo score (international students only)

Learn more about how to apply

Program Requirements

• Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction – Specialization in Teacher Education and Curriculum Studies (Social Studies Focus) Requirements

Costs listed are per credit hour.

2023-2024 Academic Year

2024-2025 academic year.

*Does not include all fees, which will vary depending on the number of credits enrolled. Find more information and calculate your expected costs at Student Central .

• Learn about the variety of fellowships and assistantships available to graduate students.
• Visit Student Central for information about financial assistance.
• Consult your employer about the availability of tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs.
• Active duty military, veterans, and military families should visit the Center for Veteran and Military Students to take full advantage of available financial assistance and educational benefits.
• Request info

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Keith Barton

Daniel Castner

Assistant professor.

Alexander Cuenca

Associate professor.

Kathryn Engebretson

Associate professor; associate department chair.

Patricia Kubow

Professor, international and comparative education program chair.

Robert Kunzman

Professor, armstrong chair for teacher education 2015.

Keith C. Barton ED 3234 (812) 856-8058 kcbarton@indiana.edu

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Teaching of Social Studies EdD

Doctor of education in the teaching of social studies.

Prepare to be a leader in social studies education.  Our graduates take up applied research careers in schools, universities, and community programs with this doctoral degree.  Graduates of this degree often have a more applied research focus than PhD students.

Students in the Doctor of Education program take coursework that offer them a depth of knowing the field of social studies education and prepare them as experts in their area of focus and their research.  The program supports the development of students’ scholarly identities. Throughout the program, students consider where and how they situate themselves in the field as a researcher of/in contemporary social studies issues.  They also do the things that scholars do – engage in research with faculty, present at conferences, publish papers, mentor students, explore college teaching, and find their intellectual community. Students select courses at Teachers College, Columbia University, and in the Doctoral Consortium in NYC to develop a focus area of study – historical understanding, memory studies, activism and civics, peace studies, global education .  Students take introductory and advanced coursework in specific research paradigms so they are prepared for the independent work of the dissertation. This coursework is determined with an advisor and the entire program faculty.  

Our location in New York City makes us unique, whether students conduct their research here or elsewhere.  The city is a wonderful educational laboratory for an array of student interests. Here, so many different kinds of educational institutions exist within the NYCDOE and in the multitude of non-profit entities that educate.  We are also a significant place in the global flow of intellectual, cultural, and civic discourse and possibility.

Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2024, Summer 2024, and Fall 2024 terms.

Doctor of Education

• Points/Credits: 75
• Entry Terms: Fall Only

Application Deadlines

• Spring: N/A
• Summer/Fall (Priority): December 1
• Summer/Fall (Final): December 1

Supplemental Application Requirements/Comments

• Online Degree Application , including Statement of Purpose and Resume
• Transcripts and/or Course-by-Course Evaluations for all Undergraduate/Graduate Coursework Completed
• Results from an accepted English Proficiency Exam (if applicable)
• $75 Application Fee
• Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
• Academic Writing Sample

Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2023-2024)

Displaying catalog information for the Fall 2023, Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 terms.

View Full Catalog Listing

The Doctor of Education degree in Social Studies requires 90 points of graduate study and a dissertation. The Ed.D. program in Social Studies leads to a professional degree designed to meet the needs of individuals preparing for careers of leadership and applied research in schools, universities, and community educational programs.

Courses in the major field (15 points minimum):

Required courses:

A&HW 5011 Contemporary Literature in Social Studies Research and Education I

A&HW 5021 Contemporary Literature in Social Studies Research and Education II

A&HW 6011 The Citizen and Society

A&HW 6521 History Of Inequality and Social Justice.

A course from Philosophy and Education

Research courses, seminars, and individual work (23 points minimum):

A&HW 5503 Research paper in social studies (done in conjunction with the fourth round of doctoral seminar)

A&HW 6503 Doctoral seminar in social studies (taken four times consecutively during the first two years of the program)

A&HW 7503 Dissertation seminar in social studies (taken at the time of presentation of the doctoral proposal)

Other offerings:

A&HW 6030 Research in social studies education

A&HW 6203 Advanced fieldwork in social studies

A&HW 6903 Research and independent study in social studies

Students are encouraged to take courses in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies selected in consultation with an advisor.

Broad and basic areas of professional scholarship (15 points minimum):

In consultation with an advisor, students will select at least one course in each of the following areas: the nature of education; the nature of persons and the learning process; curriculum, schooling, and leadership; and methods of evaluation. Other coursework in this area should be tailored to the individual student’s needs; consult an advisor.

Content courses in the major field (21 points minimum):

Soon after beginning this program, students should select an area of emphasis. These courses should be selected for their applicability to the student’s area of dissertation research. Coursework in the area of emphasis normally includes attention to the subject matters themselves as well as to questions related to educational programs in those subject matters.

Further requirements:

In addition to the dissertation, there are other requirements. Students should consult an advisor in the Program and read the Doctoral Students Handbook for Social Studies.

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Program Director : Sandra Schmidt

Phone: (212) 678-4083 Fax: (212) 678-4118

Email: socialstudies@tc.edu

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Social Studies Education

Bachelor of science teaching social studies grades 7–12, initial certification.

Through a history-based curriculum and hands-on student teaching, prepare for a career as a social studies teacher who inspires students to be active citizens.

Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary Education: Teacher Residency Initial Certification

In one year, you’ll earn your master of arts in teaching (MAT) through an immersive teacher residency experience paired with technology-enhanced course work.

Master of Arts in Teaching Teaching Social Studies: Transformational Teaching Grades 7–12, Initial Certification

In just one year, build your knowledge of history and social sciences, learn pedagogical strategies, and apply them in supervised student teaching placements.

Application Extended: Still Accepting Applications

Master of Arts Teaching Social Studies and Students with Disabilities Initial Certification

Develop the skills to teach a range of diverse students in social studies and history as you gain a dual certification in Social Studies and Special Education.

Master of Arts Educational Theatre / Social Studies Education Grades K–12 / Grades 7–12

Acquire hands-on experience in New York schools, learn pedagogical methods, develop your foundation in social studies and drama, and prepare for teaching certification.

Doctor of Philosophy Teaching and Learning

Become a first-rate scholar and practitioner in a focus area of your choosing, including literacy education, mathematics education, special education, and more.

Minor Teacher Education

Explore a career as a classroom teacher or in fields such as psychology, advocacy, or social work through the study of education and human development in this undergraduate minor.

15 Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs – 2024

April 24, 2024

If you’re looking to attain a terminal degree but want to skip the commute to campus, an online doctoral program might be a great option for you. As our world becomes increasingly digital, many top universities have branched out into online learning, offering online PhD and doctoral programs that are just as rigorous as their in-person counterparts. Online graduate education can offer aspiring doctoral students flexibility, a high-quality education, and the option to continue working while pursuing a degree.

Many of the universities below in our round-up of the best online doctoral programs offer degrees in education—a common track for teachers looking to advance their careers. But universities across the country offer a wide range of degrees in everything from engineering management to library science. Read on for everything you need to know as you consider applying.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctoral Degree Online?

Online doctoral programs are often designed with full-time professionals in mind, prioritizing flexibility so that you can complete your degree at your own pace. Program lengths will vary, but most will take four to seven years. For students who need to take things slower, many programs offer options to spread degree requirements out over time. When applying, here are a few good questions to ask your admissions officer:

• How long do most graduate students take to complete their degrees?
• Are there flexible options for how many courses you’ll take per term?
• Will you pay tuition per semester or per credit hour? If paying by credit hour, will you able to choose how many classes you take each semester?
• Will you be required to write a dissertation? If so, how long do students usually take to write them?

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Is an Online PhD Program a Good Fit for Me?

There’s no denying it: online doctoral programs are different than traditional ones. Many traditional PhD programs are designed for future academics, aka for graduate students who intend to apply for jobs as university professors after graduation. Traditional PhD programs are full-time, research-focused, in-person, and often offer graduate students funding in exchange for teaching or research assistant responsibilities. Online doctoral programs do also involve research, but most online graduate students are not full-time students. Rather, many students enrolled in online doctoral programs are working professionals who attend classes in the evenings or asynchronously. With that in mind, an online program can be a fantastic opportunity to further your current career.

An online doctorate program could be a great fit for you if:

• You want to advance your career. A doctorate can lead to further opportunities for promotion and certain fields offer automatic pay increases for people with advanced degrees.
• You love research and want to develop expertise in a topic that fascinates you.
• You learn well in online settings, including asynchronous classes.
• You plan to continue working while you study.

Online doctoral programs typically do not offer their students funding, though there may be scholarships and grants available to you.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – What to Consider When Choosing an Online Doctorate Program

Since a doctorate can take 4-7 years or more to complete, choosing the right school for you is a huge decision. Our list below dives into many details you’ll need to know like acceptance rate, retention rate, and cost of tuition. It’s important to consider big-picture factors such as:

• Time to complete degree
• Professors and mentors—you’ll want to make sure you can study with faculty who have expertise in your academic interests
• Flexibility—does the program fit with your schedule? Do they require any in-person meetings?
• Graduation rate—ask your admissions officer for the most recent figures

You’ll also want to consider whether you want to pursue a PhD or a doctorate degree. If you’re pursuing a PhD, you can expect to focus more significantly on academic research and you’ll need to complete a dissertation. A doctorate is an equivalent degree that is less focused on academic research and may not require a dissertation. Doctorates can often involve more career development or hands-on practicum experience.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Are Online PhDs Respected?

Yes, online doctoral programs are just as rigorous and respected as their in-person counterparts. If you hope to earn a tenure-track faculty position at a university, it’s likely a traditional PhD program will be a better route. However, if you’re seeking a doctorate for career advancement and further learning, an online doctoral program can be a great fit. Many of the most prestigious universities offer online programs, and your diploma will likely not specify whether you completed an online or traditional degree.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – What Do I Need to Apply?

Application requirements will vary depending on the program you’re applying to. All programs will require your academic transcripts, many require letters of recommendation, and some require GRE scores. On top of that, some programs will require a personal statement or writing portfolio. Contrary to what you might think, Master’s degrees are not always required for admission to online doctoral programs.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs

1) university of florida.

Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida offers 10 different online doctoral programs . Well known for its graduate programs in education, educators can pursue PhDs in educational leadership, special education, computer science education, among other options. UF also offers online programs in nursing, Latin and Roman studies, microbiology, and a few other fields. Established in 1853, UF is a flagship state university with a strong reputation.

• Graduation Rate: 89%
• Acceptance Rate: 31%
• In State Tuition: $6,380
• Out of State Tuition: $28,658
• Application Requirements: Application portfolio (sample essays or projects), GRE scores, minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.4 or graduate GPA of 3.5, letters of recommendation

2) George Washington University

George Washington University ’s Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering leads the way with the university’s most comprehensive online PhD offerings . Through them, students can pursue doctoral degrees in cybersecurity analytics, engineering in artificial intelligence, systems engineering, or engineering management. Educators can also pursue well-respected degrees in education leadership and human and organizational learning.

• Graduation Rate: 85%
• Acceptance Rate: 43%
• Tuition: $31,770
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, personal statement, letters of recommendation, academic records

3) Johns Hopkins University

• A ten-year-old program , Johns Hopkins ’ online PhD in education allows students to specialize in digital age learning, entrepreneurial leadership, urban leadership, and other topics. Note their high graduation rate: Johns Hopkins is a competitive program , but admitted students are well-supported on their path to graduation.
• Graduation Rate: 94%
• Acceptance Rate: 11%
• Tuition: $57,010
• Application Requirements: Master’s degree, minimum GPA of 3.0

Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs (Continued)

4) texas tech university.

Texas Tech University offers a wide range of online and hybrid PhD programs that provide their students flexibility as they work toward completing their terminal degree. An affordable university in Lubbock, Texas Tech is a great place for future doctors of education, consumer science, technical communication, engineering management, and financial planning.

• Graduation Rate: 63%
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• In State Tuition: $6,788
• Out of State Tuition: $14,968
• Application Requirements: Academic transcripts, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

5) Iowa State University

Although Iowa State University ’s online doctorate programs require some in-person meetings, ISU may still be a good fit for online students. With more uncommon online doctoral programs in hospitality management and apparel, merchandising, and design, ISU offers flexible routes to completing your dissertation.

• Graduation Rate: 75%
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• In State Tuition: $9,758
• Out of State Tuition: $24,720
• Application Requirements: Academic records, minimum 3.0 GPA

6) University of Alabama

Online University of Alabama students may miss out on a lively campus culture and football games, but they can still take advantage of UA’s top-notch academics. Well-known for its online education graduate programs, UA also offers programs in social work, communication and information sciences, and engineering.

• Graduation Rate: 72%
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• In State Tuition: $11,940
• Out of State Tuition: $32,300
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic records

7) University of Missouri

One of the most robust in terms of online offerings, the University of Missouri ’s online PhD classes are taught by the same professors who teach Mizzou’s in-person classes. Mizzou offers programs in education and nursing. They also allow students to pursue doctorates in harder-to-find subjects like health sciences, agriculture, architecture, and library science.

• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• In State Tuition: $9,478
• Out of State Tuition: $25,946
• Application Requirements: Academic record, minimum GPA of 3.0, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

8) University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

One of the oldest public universities in the U.S., University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill is known as a leader in education. UNC Chapel Hill offers just three online PhDs: public health, nursing, and education. Although some online classes require in-person or proctored final exams, doctoral requirements can mostly be completed online.

• Graduation Rate: 91%
• Acceptance Rate: 25%
• In State Tuition: $9,208
• Out of State Tuition:  $36,891
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic records, letters of recommendation, personal statement

9) Georgia Southern University

Located in Savannah, Georgia Southern University works hard to create an environment of support and collaboration, even online. One of the more robust programs out there, GSU offers respected online programs in public health, nursing, education, and engineering.

• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• In State Tuition: $4,986
• Out of State Tuition: $19,890
• Application Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0

10) Indiana University

Indiana University allows students to study at their own pace through flexible online doctoral programs. One of the only schools to offer online programs in music therapy and philanthropy leadership, IU also allows students to pursue tracks in health sciences, education, and computing and technology. Most classes are asynchronous and students can take courses through any IU campus.

• Graduation Rate: 41%
• Acceptance Rate: 92%
• In State Tuition: $9732
• Out of State Tuition: $21,160
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic record

11) Mississippi State University

A solid option for future doctors of philosophy, Mississippi State University is a research-focused and inclusive university. An especially strong option for those looking to study engineering or computer science, MSU offers 9 different majors within those fields.  MSU also offers tracks in plant science and education leadership.

• Graduation Rate: 64%
• In State Tuition: $9,398
• Out of State Tuition: $25,444
• Application Requirements: Academic record, letters of recommendation, personal statement

12) Appalachian State University

Although Appalachian State University is known for its beautiful setting in Boone, North Carolina, App State still has much to offer online students. This school offers only one part-time PhD program in education leadership , but its affordability compared to other programs makes this school stand out.

• In State Tuition: $4,839
• Out of State Tuition: $18,271
• Application Requirements: Academic record, GRE scores or 3.0 minimum GPA, Master’s degree

13) Purdue University

An online doctoral program that maintains a high standard of excellence, Purdue is a great place for future doctors of technology, educational leadership and policy, and higher education. Purdue graduate students can expect to co-author papers with faculty and gain hands-on experience in research.

• Graduation Rate: 38%
• Acceptance Rate: 30%
• Tuition: $420 per credit

14) Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University ’s online doctoral programs allow students to complete their degree in three to five years. Through their shortened term system, students take 8-week classes and then write their dissertation in their final three semesters. A leader in online doctoral programs, Concordia offers paths in strategic innovation, healthcare management, education leadership, and organizational leadership.

• Tuition: $9,090
• Application Requirements: Academic record, Master’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

15) Clemson University

A public school in South Carolina, Clemson aims to prepare online doctoral students for diverse career paths. Proudly offering programs that are difficult to find elsewhere, Clemson graduate students can study healthcare genetics and parks, recreation, and tourism management. Education professionals can complete degrees in education systems, learning science, and teaching, literacy, language, and culture.

• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Acceptance Rate: 49%
• In State Tuition: $10,600
• Out of State Tuition: $22,050
• Application Requirements: Academic record, letters of recommendation, portfolio and personal statement vary by program

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Additional Resources

Looking to learn more about graduate school admissions? We’ve got you covered.

Admissions Tips

• What is a Good GRE Score?
• Write a Grad School Statement of Purpose in 12 Simple Steps
• How to Get into Grad School with a Low GPA
• Do You Need a Master’s to get a PhD?

More about Online Learning

• Best Online MSW Programs
• Best Master’s in Public Health Online Programs
• Hybrid and Online DBA Programs 
• Graduate School Admissions

Christina Wood

Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.

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PhD in Social Justice Education

Advance your studies in Social Justice Education and engage in original research and theoretical analysis at a doctoral level. If you are interested in pursuing a career in research or academia, this program is for you.

Designed for practicing professionals, the flexible-time PhD option enables students to continue working while pursuing their studies. Flexible-time students are self-funded. Learn more .

OISE offers a OISE Graduate Funding Package to students in their first four years of a PhD program, excluding the flexible-time PhD.

OISE Graduate Funding Package covers the cost of tuition, and helps offset other living expenses. Last year, awards averaged around $25,000 per eligible student.

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Social studies education

Get started with MU

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Master of education

As a social studies instructor, you’re more than familiar with the phrase “history repeats itself” — you see its meaning unfold across society. Teaching your students about events and dates is just the tip of the iceberg, however. You strive to impress the importance of global citizenship, acceptance of cultural differences and interconnectedness across communities. The online master of education in learning, teaching and curriculum with an emphasis in social studies education from the University of Missouri (Mizzou) equips you to foster environments beyond factual learning, where students understand their role in promoting change and serving society at all levels.

Ideal for existing social studies instructors aiming to enhance their practice, Mizzou’s program helps refine your classroom delivery and curriculum development skills. At the same time, you’ll start to identify and refine your leadership style.

Note: This program does not provide social studies certification, nor does it provide the initial certification required to become a teacher.

About the online M Ed in social studies education

Reading about historical events, discussing their significance and identifying patterns over the centuries may have drawn you to teach social studies. Now in front of the classroom, you spot pupils as curious and ready to engage in civic discourse as you used to be. Yet, others appear bored or ask why they need to learn about events that already happened.

This online master’s in social studies education grows your toolbox for the classroom. You’ll continue your education with an advanced degree and explore topics related to instructional methods and curriculum development:

• Prepare to engage in nuanced, contemporary conversations about the role of social studies in the present
• Explore the influence of theory and research on classroom delivery and curriculum plans
• View social studies as a tool for addressing societal concerns, building relationships across differences and supporting diverse classrooms
• Understand how global citizenry creates a connected, change-minded society
• Gain the techniques to better hold students’ attention and help them realize how they can serve the common good
• Grow as a leader, either for the classroom or to move into a district, curriculum development or research position

Top-ranked programs

Mizzou's online master's in education programs ranked among the nation's finest in U.S. News & World Report 2024 .

Quick facts

Official name, program type, academic home, delivery mode, accreditation, credit hours, estimated cost.

*This cost is for illustrative purposes only. Your hours and costs will differ, depending on your transfer hours, your course choices and your academic progress. See more about tuition and financial aid .

Career prospects

With the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting consistent demand for  elementary ,  middle and  high school teachers through 2032, the online M Ed in social studies education speaks to your advanced skill set. Your knowledge further equips you to meaningfully impact the classroom — both through pedagogy and turning to research to create comprehensive curriculum plans that help students process today’s issues.

At the same time, the program’s emphasis on leadership highlights additional paths forward, including as a department chair, curriculum developer or facilitator of a professional learning team.

Program structure

The online M Ed in social studies education requires 30 credit hours, including 15 credit hours of social studies courses, six credit hours of learning, teaching and curriculum courses, three credit hours of electives and a capstone.

Courses are entirely online and follow a semester schedule. No campus visits are required. Students typically take one or two classes each semester and finish in two years.

Social studies courses

The social studies sequence explores the following topics:

• Planning and teaching social studies at elementary and secondary levels
• Trends and practices in social studies curriculum development
• Trends influencing the social studies classroom
• The intersection between learning, teaching and curriculum
• Political, cultural and economic influences on teaching

Review all requirements for the online M Ed in social studies education .

Calendar system

Typical program length, typical course load.

The University of Missouri is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission , one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. The College of Education and Human Development is a member of the Teacher Education Accreditation Council .

MPER Early Career Scholars Program

If you are a first-, second- or third-year teacher, and teach in an MPER partner school district, you might qualify for a 50 percent tuition sponsorship from the College of Education and Human Development.

See how you can apply today.

Learn more about this program

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