Foundations of Education

Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction

_{Campus: Virginia Tech Blacksburg Campus, Instructions: Residential/On Campus}

Program Overview

Educational foundations is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to build their own program of studies that draws on the expertise found in the program. Students in the Foundations of Education acquire not only theory and research skills, but also tools that enable critique and creative responses to the social, cultural, political, and economic issues that surround the cultural reproduction of schooling.

Why choose this program?

We emphasize the research and theories related to learning and motivation, as well as how to apply the research and theories to practice. The program is fairly small, which allows for greater interaction between doctoral students and faculty.

What You'll Study

Students in the Foundations of Education acquire not only theory and research skills, but also tools that enable critique and creative responses to the social, cultural, political, and economic issues that surround the cultural reproduction of schooling. Students may be prepared to work in a wide array of educational settings.Ph.D students must take at least 69 hours of post master's credits, of which 30 hours may be dissertation hours. The courses in this program include Schooling in American Society, Academic Writing for the Social Sciences, Deweyan Pragmatism & Education, Discourse in Classrooms & Schools, Gender & Education, Informal Learning, Schooling and the Post-Civil Rights Generation, The Analysis of Educational Concepts, Education & Anthropology, and Ethnographic Methods in Educational Research.

Career and Professional Development

Ph.D. program is primarily designed to prepare researchers and higher education faculty. The Possible career paths could be but not limited to Leadership roles at educational foundations, faculty jobs, editorial jobs, or policy making for state and national government work.

Blacksburg Campus

This degree program is offered at the Blacksburg campus. The Blacksburg campus offers students the full services of the university, including an extensive library, technology support, and the Graduate Life Center.

Course List

Scholarships and Awards

Admissions Requirement

To enroll in the doctoral program, an applicant must have:

An appropriate masters-level degree from an accredited institution

Visit this page for more information on how to apply, including requirements, deadlines, and what you'll need in detail.

Tuition and Fee

Tuition and Costs

Funding Opportunities

There is a discount for in-state K-12 teachers; use this application form in order to receive the reduced costs. Otherwise, as with on-campus students, we refer you to the VT Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid for information on financial assistance. Generally, distance learners may qualify for federal loans if they take 5 or more credit hours per semester.

Find out what loans are available as a graduate student and other opportunities.

Some students in the doctoral program receive financial support including a stipend and tuition. Assignments may be for full or half-time and be with the Program or with other programs in the School or University.

Learn more about other available funding opportunities