Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Program Overview
The Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction program at UNLV prepares educators for leadership roles in education. It offers seven specializations, emphasizing the integration of theory, research, and practice to solve complex educational problems. The program requires 60 graduate-level credits, including core courses, research courses, specialization courses, an internship, and a dissertation. Graduates are equipped for careers in academia, curriculum leadership, educational consulting, and district administration.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Ed.D.) program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is designed for professional educators who seek to advance their studies in education theory and practice. The program aims to prepare individuals for leadership roles in university faculties, school districts, and community agencies.
Objectives:
- Extend and advance knowledge in education theory and practice.
- Develop expertise in curriculum design, instruction, and assessment.
- Enhance research skills and the ability to conduct educational studies.
- Prepare for leadership roles in education settings.
Program Description:
The Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction program offers seven areas of specialization:
- Career & Technical and Postsecondary Education
- Cultural and International Studies in Education
- Educational Technology
- Literacy Education
- Mathematics Education
- Science Education
- Teacher Education Students choose one specialization and complete coursework and research in that area. The program emphasizes the integration of theory, research, and practice, with a focus on solving complex problems in education.
Program Structure:
The program requires a total of 60 graduate-level credits, including:
- 6 credits of core courses (Theoretical Foundations of Education and Doctoral Research Seminar)
- 12 credits of required research courses (Qualitative Research Methodologies and Descriptive and Inferential Statistics)
- 15 credits of specialization courses (chosen in consultation with the student's advisor)
- 15 credits of internship (including 3 credits of dissertation proposal completion)
- 12 credits of dissertation
Outline:
Core Courses:
- Theoretical Foundations of Education: Examines the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations of education.
- Doctoral Research Seminar: Provides guidance and support for students as they develop their dissertation research proposals.
Research Courses:
- Qualitative Research Methodologies: Introduces qualitative research methods and their application in educational settings.
- Descriptive and Inferential Statistics: Covers statistical concepts and methods commonly used in educational research.
Specialization Courses:
- Content and coursework vary depending on the chosen specialization.
Internship:
- Provides students with hands-on experience in applying their knowledge and skills in a practical setting.
Dissertation:
- Students conduct original research and write a dissertation that demonstrates their expertise in their chosen area of specialization.
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a combination of methods, including:
- Coursework assignments
- Research projects
- Oral presentations
- Dissertation defense
Teaching:
The Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction program is taught by experienced faculty who are actively engaged in research and professional practice. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Group projects
- Online learning
Careers:
Graduates of the Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction program are prepared for a wide range of careers, including:
- University or college professor
- Curriculum leader
- Educational consultant
- District administrator