Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education

Postsecondary and Adult Education Specialization

School of Education

The postsecondary and adult education specialization will enhance your ability to teach in a variety of settings. The curriculum focuses on major theories of adult learning and distance education and on the application of theory to develop effective learning communities. You will develop critical analysis and research skills and gain the knowledge necessary to develop best practices in postsecondary instruction. This program places special emphasis on creating productive learning environments for individuals from a variety of backgrounds.

You may be eligible for transfer credits of up to 48 credits.

Residency Requirements: As a doctoral learner you will attend residential colloquia in addition to your online courses. Taken during specific milestones in your program, you will attend three colloquia, each one week in length.

ENROLL NOW FOR CLASSES BEGINNING: January 6, 2025 COST PER QUARTER: $4,050 (pricing is subject to periodic adjustment) TOTAL QUARTER CREDITS: 120

Core Courses:

• ED 8004 - Societal and Cultural Change - 4 credits
• ED 8113 - Advanced Study in Research Methods - 4 credits

Specialization Courses:

• ED 815 - The Future of Educational Institutions: Topics and Trends - 4 credits
• ED 814 - Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Educational Process - 4 credits
• ED 829 - Theory and Methods of Educating Adults - 4 credits
• ED 838 - Teaching and Learning with Diverse Populations - 4 credits
• ED 7590 - Critical Thinking in Adult Education - 4 credits
• ED 7701 - Educational Philosophy and Change - 4 credits
• ED 9984 - Doctoral Comprehensive Examination I - 4 credits
• ED 9985 - Doctoral Comprehensive Examination II - 4 credits
• ED 9996 - Dissertation Research I - 4 credits
• ED 9997 - Dissertation Research II - 4 credits
• ED 9998 - Dissertation Research III - 4 credits
• ED 9999 - Dissertation Research IV - 4 credits

Sixteen Elective Courses:

• ED 828 - Intellectual Development and Learning Styles Across the Lifespan - 4 credits
• ED 836 - The Collaborative Nature of Adult Education - 4 credits
• ED 7580 - Theory and Development of Multiple Intelligences - 4 credits
• ED 7690 - Critical Skills for Facilitating Online Learning - 4 credits
• ED 7692 - Strategies for Building Online Learning - 4 credits
• ED 7700 - Learning Theory and the Educational Process - 4 credits
• ED 7703 - Student Development, Challenges and Successes - 4 credits
• ED 7711 - Course Design and Development - 4 credits
• ED 7712 - Classroom Assessment in Education - 4 credits
• ED 7713 - Student Advising and Retention - 4 credits
• ED 7716 - Faculty Leadership - 4 credits
• ED 7819 - Grantsmanship - 4 credits
• ED 8111 - The Historical and Social Foundations of Education - 4 credits
• ED 8444 - Higher Education Curriculum Development and Teaching Strategies - 4 credits
• ED 8600 - Effective Online Course Design, Delivery, Facilitation, and Assessment - 4 credits OR
• Choose any graduate courses.