Overview
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 (https://education.tamu.edu/early-childhood-institute/) 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. Graduate students collaborate with faculty who lead, large-scale, federally-funded research projects in early childhood development, including intergenerational family relationships, early childhood STEM learning, writing in early childhood, early bilingual development, and assessment and policy research. Students develop skills for effectively using a range of research methodologies and for disseminating research to varied audiences.
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.
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.
When can I start?
Enrollment of new students occurs at the beginning of each Fall semester. Applications for admission are due on December 1st annually.