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Foundations of Education

*Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction

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Relevant, Research-Based Program

Students in the Foundations of Education Doctoral Program build individualized, interdisciplinary programs of study to help them address pressing issues in education at all levels, both locally and globally.  Foundations of Education students acquire skills and tools from the humanities and social sciences—the philosophy, history, politics, and sociology of education—that enable critique and creative responses to educational challenges.  

OUR PROGRAM FOCUS

We have special program focus on critical theory, rural education, literacy, social justice, equity, and inclusion.

We emphasize applying research and theories to practice and policy. The program’s relatively small size allows for close interaction and collaboration between doctoral students and Virginia Tech's world class faculty.

Reimagining the future begins with practices that put educational excellence, innovation, and equity at the fore. At the Virginia Tech School of Education, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to transform teaching and learning, conduct groundbreaking research, and engage with learning communities around the globe. 

As a global catalyst for individual transformation, we’re pushing the boundaries of knowledge and practice to reimagine a more equitable and just world.


Program Deadlines & Dates

Domestic  Applicants

Starting Semester:

Fall *

Spring

Deadline:

August 1 **

January 1 **

International Applicants

Starting Semester:

Fall *

Spring

Deadline:

April 1 **

September **

* The Deadline for early decision with full funding consideration for the Fall semester is January 15
** Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis
 

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FACULTY

Dr. Weaver-Hightower smiles happily at the camera. He stands in front of a wall of Hokie Stone, wearing a white shirt with narrow grey stripes, and a grey tie with blue and tan dots
Marcus Weaver-Hightower, Professor and Program Leader

Brittany D. Hunt, Assistant Professor

brittany hunt
Brittany D. Hunt, Assistant Professor
dr. amy azano smiles confidently into the camera. she wears a black jacket dress with chunky jewely
Amy Price Azano, Professor of Adolescent Literacy and Rural Education

Rachelle Kuehl, Visiting Assistant Professor

Rachelle Kuehl, Research Scientist and Project Manager, Appalachian Rural Talent Initiative
Rachelle Kuehl, Visiting Assistant Professor

EMERITUS FACULTY

dr jim garrison smiles confidently into the camera. he wears a button down white shirt and glasses
Jim Garrison, Professor Emeritus
dr kris tilley-lubbs smiles into the camera - she wears a black shirt with a maroon drape - her brown hair is short and styled. she wears glasses
Kris Tilley-Lubbs, Professor Emeritus