Program Overview

Overview of the Curriculum and Instruction PhD Program

The Curriculum and Instruction PhD program provides foundational instruction in education history, language acquisition & literacy theory, teaching & learning philosophy, and research methodologies, before offering a deeper dive into five areas of concentration. Graduates of the program will be positioned to assume leadership, research, and teaching roles in education across academia, government agencies, foundations, and international organizations, and the private sector.

Areas of Focus

• Early Childhood Education: Prepares scholars interested in gaining advanced knowledge and skills for leading cutting-edge research in the field. Graduates will be prepared to teach courses in early childhood development and education in higher education settings, as well as conduct independent research.
  • Texas A&M is highly invested in growing our new early childhood education programs. Our new Institute for Early Childhood Development & Education includes a network of scholars focused on leading interdisciplinary, solutions-based research that enhances the lives of young children, families, and professionals who interface with them.
• Teaching and Teacher Education: Prepares practitioners and researchers with a specific interest in the scholarship related to the various stages of teacher education. Scholars will be encouraged to develop research agendas to investigate relevant issues in the preparation and continuing development of teachers in K-16 settings.
• Urban Education: Cultivates a community of scholar-practitioners dedicated to advancing high-quality research and innovation in urban education that informs policy and practice. Grounded in a commitment to expanding educational access, attainment, and opportunity for all learners, this program seeks to empower educators, researchers, and leaders to make a positive difference in our education system and address the complex challenges and boundless opportunities facing urban schools and communities.
• Science Education: Develops tomorrow’s scholars and leaders in innovative teaching interventions in K-16 science education based on the latest research models of science teaching & learning, science learning environmental design, science teacher preparation & renewal, and engagement with scientists.
• Mathematics Education: Prepares graduates to advance mathematics performance for all students through research-based learning. The program offers individualized projects that utilize technology to enhance teaching and learning. With a technology-rich environment, students will employ advanced tools to become leaders in the delivery of math education.
• Reading and Literacy: Focuses on how children acquire reading and writing skills, and how educators can address their needs. Students will create a research agenda for careers in higher education, teacher training, administration, or curriculum development. This degree is ideal for those aspiring to be teachers or administrators.
• Learning Design and Technology: Technology has revolutionized collaboration, engagement, learning, and work, reshaping learning environments and data analysis. Emerging technologies like integrated platforms, AI, XR, and design spaces enhance personalized learning. This program trains future researchers and leaders to evolve learning technologies across sectors. Students will work with faculty in curriculum and instruction, technology-enhanced learning, and design. Students develop research agendas to contribute to technology-enhanced learning and teaching across K-12, higher education, and workforce contexts.

Program Details

• Duration: The program typically takes four years to complete.
• Cost: Most doctoral students receive a stipend to teach a course or work on a research project (approximately $24,000/yr), that also comes with a tuition and fees waiver and health insurance.
• Curriculum: Curriculum for the early childhood emphasis area can be found on the Department of Teaching, Learning & Culture website.
• Modality: This program is offered on-campus, in person. Students engage in mentored, hands-on experience with a range of research, instruction, outreach, and dissemination opportunities beginning in the first semester.
• Enrollment: Enrollment of new students occurs at the beginning of each Fall semester. Applications for admission are due on December 1st annually.

Related Programs

• MEd, Curriculum and Instruction
• MS, Curriculum and Instruction
• EdD, Curriculum and Instruction

Program Quick Facts

• Dual Degree Option: No
• Thesis or Dissertation Required: Yes
• Main Method of Study: Face-to-Face