PhD in Education with an emphasis in Teacher Learning, Research & Practice
Program Overview
PhD in Education with an emphasis in Teacher Learning, Research & Practice
The PhD in Education with an emphasis in Teacher Learning, Research & Practice is a groundbreaking program area designed for individuals interested in conducting research and supporting and engaging in the practice of teaching and teacher education. This program offers a welcoming, dynamic, and interdisciplinary scholarly community, with a focus on disrupting the historical legacy of inequalities perpetuated by teacher education.
Program Description
The Teacher Learning, Research, and Practice (TLRP) program is centrally concerned with the complexities of teachers' learning experiences and processes, as well as broader contexts of teaching and teacher education. The program consists of four advanced seminar courses:
- Critical Inquiry into Becoming Teacher Educators
- History and Policy Issues in Teaching and Teacher Education
- Theories and Methodologies of Teacher Learning and Teacher Education
- Designing for Teacher Learning and Teacher Education
These courses are grounded in equity- and justice-oriented frameworks, emphasizing the complexities of teachers' learning experiences and processes. Additionally, students and faculty meet monthly for a lunch seminar to explore topics of interest and relevance in teaching and teacher education.
Research Opportunities
TLRP doctoral students have opportunities to work in and with the school's multiple teacher preparation programs and to collaborate with faculty, doctoral students, and other stakeholders in the critical design and study of these programs. Participating in teacher preparation and conducting research with members of this community provides opportunities to deepen understandings from coursework and to pose and pursue questions using a range of research methodologies and methods.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the program is competitive and based on multiple criteria, including:
- Undergraduate academic record
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Evidence of special accomplishments
- Relevant past experience
The program has adopted a test-optional policy for the GRE requirement, allowing students to submit scores for consideration as part of a holistic process. Candidates from historically underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply.
Financial Support
All doctoral students are awarded generous funding packages, including:
- Stipends and grants to cover tuition costs
- Experiential graduate assistantships to prepare students for their future as researchers, educators, and leaders in the field
- Fellowship and assistantship packages awarded on a competitive basis, varying for each student
- A typical package includes a 50% appointment, full tuition remission, and a stipend of approximately $27,000 per academic year
The Miramontes Baca Doctoral Scholars Program provides five years of funding for full-time doctoral study, including one year of support focused solely on the dissertation year. The program offers a dedicated, supportive community for doctoral students with research interests focused on educational equity and cultural diversity.
Application Deadline
- December 1 for domestic applicants
- November 15 for international applicants
Program Faculty
The program is led by a team of experienced faculty members, including:
- Melissa Braaten, Associate Professor and Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Teacher Education
- Jamy Stillman, Associate Professor
- Sara Staley, Associate Professor and Program Chair
These faculty members bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the program, providing students with a comprehensive and supportive learning environment.