نظرة عامة على البرنامج

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction is designed to prepare students for diverse career paths, including teaching and research in higher education, curricular leadership in public school districts, roles in government agencies, private foundations, or educational training positions in business and industry. The program provides a solid foundation in curricular and instructional theory, design, and research while allowing students to explore courses tailored to their individual interests.

Program Details

• Program Type: Doctorate
• Academic Unit: School of Education, Social Work and Psychological Sciences
• Degree Type: Doctor of Philosophy
• Standard credit hours: 60
• Delivery Mode: In-person
• Typical Program Length: 5-6 years
• Typical Course Load: 2 per semester
• Estimated Program Cost: $32,280

Program Features

• Educator-friendly: Courses are scheduled around school schedules to accommodate active teachers.
• Customized to your interests: Students can follow their interests by taking corollary coursework across disciplines.
• Uniquely focused: Courses and content are cognizant of social justice issues and address unique challenges and solutions in urban education environments.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program can pursue roles as university faculty members, school and community administrative leaders, and educational experts in policy and non-profit settings. Careers in education are expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Postsecondary education administrator
• Policy expert
• University professor
• Median salary/year: $103,545

Potential Courses

• Seminars in Theories Related to Curriculum: Study major historical developments in curriculum and their influence on contemporary models and practices.
• Survey of Research in Curriculum: Review and analyze research in curriculum theory and methods.
• Seminar in Multicultural Perspectives in Education: Engage in a critical study of multicultural perspectives in education, examining current demographic and achievement realities, as well as the theoretical and political frameworks.

Related Programs and Pathways

• College Teaching Career Preparation (Certificate)
• Curriculum and Instruction (Master's)
• Curriculum and Instruction (Specialist)

Application Process

1. Gather your materials:

• Official transcripts
• Names and locations of previous college(s) and dates you attended
• Citizenship, residency, and visa information (if applicable)

2. Complete the online application: $45 for domestic graduate students or $75 for international graduate students
3. Check admissions requirements: Some programs have specific admission requirements or may require minimum scores on graduate admissions tests.

Application Dates

• To Start Classes in Fall: Apply by June 15, Classes begin in August
• To Start Classes in Spring: Apply by November 15, Classes begin in January

Estimated Tuition Per Semester

• Resident Rate: $4,842
• Midwest Student Exchange Program: $7,263
• Nonresident Rate: $12,155 All rates or costs are for illustrative purposes only. Estimated cost is calculated by multiplying the appropriate 2025/2026 UMKC academic year resident rate by standard credit hours. Fees are NOT included in the calculation. Your hours and total costs may differ, depending on transfer hours, course choices, academic progress, program- and university-specific fees, and your qualified tuition rate. Learn more about tuition and financial aid. This rate calculation is based on a course load of 9 credit hours per semester.

Financial Aid

• 80% of first-year students seeking a master's degree or graduate certificate received financial aid
• 92% of first-year students seeking a doctoral degree received financial aid
• 77% of all degree- and certificate-seeking graduate students received financial aid An amazing education shouldn’t break the bank, which is why we offer a number of automatic and competitive scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities — plus financial guidance from our expert advisors.