Doctoral

Doctoral Degree Programs

The School of Education's doctoral program prepares the next generation of thought leaders and researchers in education. As a Ph.D. student, you can choose to specialize in one of the following areas: Education Policy Analysis and Leadership; Education, Society, and Culture; Educational Psychology; Higher Education Administration and Policy; School Psychology; or Special Education.

As a doctoral student, you'll work alongside faculty devising and conducting cutting-edge research that brings about positive change for students of all ages and abilities. You'll have opportunities to present research, co-author scholarly papers, and explore ideas with some of the most respected leaders in the field of education. Once you graduate with a doctorate, you’ll join a vibrant SOE alumni network, and be prepared to enter a position in educational research, university teaching, local school leadership, or similar area.

At-A-Glance

No GRE required

No master’s degree or major prerequisites required

94% students receive multi-year fellowships

Most diverse Education faculty in the UC System, UCOP Info Center 2020

Program Overview

Full-time study
In-person, seminar style classes
Main campus - Riverside
Most classes meet 4-7pm
Duration: five years

Fellowships

Doctoral students are eligible to receive competitive fellowships:

Tuition remission
Health insurance
Researcher & teaching opportunities

Research

Take advantage of research opportunities with award-winning faculty
Explore the array of research interests and centers

Ph.D. Specializations

The SOE offers six specializations within the Ph.D. in education program. You'll find faculty research interests within the specializations align with the program curriculum. Prospective students should identify the specialization and corresponding faculty member that align with their own research interests and clearly identify them in the statement of purpose essay.

Education Policy Analysis & Leadership

More Information

Education, Society & Culture

More Information

Educational Psychology

More Information

Higher Education Administration & Policy

More Information

School Psychology

More Information

Special Education

More Information

Student Spotlight

Emad Alussaif, Ph.D. '20

"My dream is to be a researcher, and SOE's special education program is home to some of the world's top special education researchers. Faculty at SOE provide us with the tools, methods, and knowledge that shape our way of thinking systematically and scientifically. The professors work closely with you, and are happy to help you anytime, no matter where you from are, what language you speak, or what type of help you seek. At SOE, you are surrounded by the professionals who will take hold of your hand and help you achieve your goal."