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Doctoral programs.

The goal of the GSE PhD in Education is to prepare the next generation of leading education researchers. The cornerstone of the doctoral experience at the Stanford Graduate School of Education is the research apprenticeship that all students undertake, typically under the guidance of their academic advisor, but often with other Stanford faculty as well.

In this apprenticeship model, doctoral students are provided with a multi-year funding package that consists of opportunities each quarter to serve as teaching and research assistants for faculty members' courses and research projects. By this means, and in combination with the courses they take as part of their program, students are prepared over an approximately five-year period to excel as university teachers and education researchers.

The doctoral degree in Education at the GSE includes doctoral program requirements as well as a specialization, as listed below, overseen by a faculty committee from one of the GSE's three academic areas.

Doctoral programs by academic area

Curriculum studies and teacher education (cte).

• ‌ Elementary Education
• ‌ History/Social Science Education
• ‌ Learning Sciences and Technology Design
• ‌ Literacy, Language, and English Education
• ‌ Mathematics Education
• ‌ Science, Engineering and Technology Education
• ‌ Race, Inequality, and Language in Education
• ‌ Teacher Education

Developmental and Psychological Sciences (DAPS)

• ‌ Developmental and Psychological Sciences

Social Sciences, Humanities, and Interdisciplinary Policy Studies in Education (SHIPS)

• ‌ Anthropology of Education
• ‌ Economics of Education
• ‌ Education Data Science
• ‌ ‌Educational Linguistics
• ‌ Educational Policy
• ‌ Higher Education
• ‌ History of Education
• ‌ International Comparative Education
• ‌ Organizational Studies
• ‌ Philosophy of Education
• ‌ Sociology of Education

Cross-area specializations

Learning sciences and technology design (lstd).

LSTD allows doctoral students to study learning sciences and technology design within the context of their primary program of study (DAPS, CTE, or SHIPS).

Race, Inequality, and Language in Education (RILE)

RILE trains students to become national leaders in conducting research on how race, inequality, and language intersect to make both ineffective and effective educational opportunities. RILE allows students to specialize within their program of study (DAPS, CTE, or SHIPS).

Other academic opportunities

• ‌ Concentration in Education and Jewish Studies
• ‌ PhD Minor in Education
• ‌ Stanford Doctoral Training Program in Leadership for System-wide Inclusive Education (LSIE)
• ‌ Certificate Program in Partnership Research in Education
• ‌ Public Scholarship Collaborative

“I came to Stanford to work with faculty who value learning in informal settings and who are working to understand and design for it.”

Doctoral graduates were employed within four months of graduation

of those employed worked in organizations or roles related to education

For more information about GSE admissions and to see upcoming events and appointments:

To learn more about the Academic Services team:

Stanford Graduate School of Education

482 Galvez Mall Stanford, CA 94305-3096 Tel: (650) 723-2109

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Discover the Ph.D. Program at Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences

Ph.d. program, ph.d. program overview.

At Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, you’ll discover a unique research training environment of academic inquiry and scientific discovery, combined with exceptional intellectual and technological resources designed to help you achieve your highest scientific career goals.

Through the Ph.D. program, you’ll acquire a broad expertise in biomedical science with the opportunity to go deeper into your primary area of research interest.

year average time to degree

Best graduate school rankings

a top school for biological sciences as ranked by U.S. News & World Report

Guaranteed 5-year internal fellowship

includes full tuition, stipend, and benefits

Whether you’re preparing for graduate school or applying now, the Mayo Clinic experience for biomedical science Ph.D. students is different.

Program highlights:

• Research training by leading investigators in fields ranging from molecules to populations, all in the context of exceptional health care.
• Embedded within a top academic medical center, you’ll have access to clinical data from more than 6 million patient histories.
• A Career Development Internship program where senior students experience networking opportunities in career settings different from those of their research mentors.
• A national destination for research training of students from backgrounds underrepresented in science. Mayo’s NIH-funded IMSD is more than two decades old, and Mayo invented the NIH PREP concept.
• Join about 250 students who have access to 300+ faculty members in small class sizes.
• 87% of graduates since 1989 are employed in academia or industry.
• Three campuses in Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona with diverse research opportunities.
• Every student is awarded a fellowship for five years that fully covers tuition.
• Ph.D. students receive a stipend and health benefits.

See yourself here

Hear from students and faculty to get an idea of what it's like to learn here, live here, and be a Ph.D. student at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science.

"I can be the scientist I want to be"

Choosing your area of specialization

You'll choose from one of eight  biomedical science specialty tracks within our Ph.D. Program. Track choice is indicated during the application process and confirmed after admission. But you'll be able to do research and learn in any Mayo laboratory that interests you, even if it's not within your track.

Perspectives on our Ph.D. Program

"Collaboration is massive here"

Collaborative research and learning environment

The hallmark of research at Mayo Clinic is the highly collaborative interaction that occurs between investigators in basic science and clinical areas. While each investigator has a competitively funded independent lab, collaboration with graduate students and staff across the institution is common. As a Ph.D. student, you’re free to select any Mayo mentor, regardless of which track you choose.

"Allowed me to build my own team"

Teaching opportunities

Tutoring and teaching opportunities are available and optional for our Ph.D. students. If you’re interested in developing these skills, serving as a tutor or a teaching assistant can help cement the knowledge you gain from your coursework.

Application window

Apply between Sept. 1 and Dec. 4 for the following academic year.

To get in touch with the Ph.D. Program, fill out the form on the Contact Us page .

Ph.D. and master's degree program catalog (2023-2024), rev. 5-11-23

Virtual visits

Explore our virtual visit options or sign up for a video chat to get a personalized look at our program.

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PhD Training Program

The program in Genetics and Development provides a broad, solid education in genetics and animal development, with rigorous training in critical thinking and experimental design. Genetics is central to all of biology and the training program is guided by the principle that understanding the genetic control of development and physiology is a fundamental goal of biomedical research.

We offer training in a diverse range of research areas that include the regulation of gene expression, cell differentiation, and growth control, the molecular genetics of embryogenesis, cell patterning and

organogenesis, the genetics and pathogenesis of inherited disease, the molecular genetics of cancer, molecular physiology, stem cell biology, the genetics of recombination and linkage analysis and human genetics and genomics, biological modeling of human diseases, and the development of targeted therapeutics as part of Columbia's Precision Medicine Initiative.  Model organisms from yeast to mouse complement studies of human genetics and development.  Forty five faculty from nine different departments make up the training faculty providing an interdisciplinary yet collegial group of mentors all making use of genetic approaches in their research.  This faculty is dedicated to the highest standards of graduate education.

Research training begins with rotations through three research laboratories in the first year, after which each student chooses a laboratory for thesis research. One rotation may be arranged outside the department, and the Thesis Lab may be chosen from any department in the University. At the end of the second year and beginning of the third, students complete a two-part Qualifying Examination based on a research project. Students are closely supervised at all stages of their training, and have access to faculty advice through their thesis advisor, Qualifying Examination Committee and Thesis Research Advisory Committee, or TRAC. A Training Committee oversees the program and the progress of all students. After rotations and all required  courses  an M.A. degree is awarded, and an M.Phil. degree is awarded after completion of the Qualifying Examination. Training is completed with the successful defense of a thesis, usually 4-6 years from entry into the program.

Doctoral Degree Programs

Additional information.

• Download the Doctoral Viewbook

Join a world-class community of scholars and education leaders exploring new frontiers in learning and teaching.

Doctoral study at Harvard means full immersion in one of the world's most dynamic and influential intellectual communities. At the Harvard Graduate School of Education, two distinct doctoral programs leverage the extraordinary interdisciplinary strengths of the entire University. The Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) prepares experienced educators for system-level leadership roles in school districts, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and beyond; and the Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Ph.D.)  empowers cutting-edge interdisciplinary research informed by the cognitive sciences, economics, medicine, the humanities, and more.

Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.)

The Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D) is a three-year, practice-based program designed to produce system-level leaders in American pre-K-12 education. The Ed.L.D. curriculum mines the vast intellectual and professional resources of HGSE, the Harvard Business School , and the Harvard Kennedy School , and includes a 10-month residency in the third year.

Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Ph.D.)

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Ph.D.) , offered jointly with the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences , provides unrestricted access to faculty and resources at all Harvard graduate and professional schools. This five-year Ph.D. is ideal for conducting groundbreaking interdisciplinary research that directly informs and impacts education practice and policy.

Smart. Open. Grounded. Inventive. Read our Ideas Made to Matter.

Which program is right for you?

Through intellectual rigor and experiential learning, this full-time, two-year MBA program develops leaders who make a difference in the world.

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Earn your MBA and SM in engineering with this transformative two-year program.

Combine an international MBA with a deep dive into management science. A special opportunity for partner and affiliate schools only.

A doctoral program that produces outstanding scholars who are leading in their fields of research.

Bring a business perspective to your technical and quantitative expertise with a bachelor’s degree in management, business analytics, or finance.

A joint program for mid-career professionals that integrates engineering and systems thinking. Earn your master’s degree in engineering and management.

An interdisciplinary program that combines engineering, management, and design, leading to a master’s degree in engineering and management.

Executive Programs

A full-time MBA program for mid-career leaders eager to dedicate one year of discovery for a lifetime of impact.

This 20-month MBA program equips experienced executives to enhance their impact on their organizations and the world.

Non-degree programs for senior executives and high-potential managers.

A non-degree, customizable program for mid-career professionals.

PhD Program

Program overview.

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Rigorous, discipline-based research is the hallmark of the MIT Sloan PhD Program. The program is committed to educating scholars who will lead in their fields of research—those with outstanding intellectual skills who will carry forward productive research on the complex organizational, financial, and technological issues that characterize an increasingly competitive and challenging business world.

Start here.

Learn more about the program, how to apply, and find answers to common questions.

Admissions Events

Check out our event schedule, and learn when you can chat with us in person or online.

Start Your Application

Visit this section to find important admissions deadlines, along with a link to our application.

Click here for answers to many of the most frequently asked questions.

PhD studies at MIT Sloan are intense and individual in nature, demanding a great deal of time, initiative, and discipline from every candidate. But the rewards of such rigor are tremendous:  MIT Sloan PhD graduates go on to teach and conduct research at the world's most prestigious universities.

PhD Program curriculum at MIT Sloan is organized under the following three academic areas: Behavior & Policy Sciences; Economics, Finance & Accounting; and Management Science. Our nine research groups correspond with one of the academic areas, as noted below.

MIT Sloan PhD Research Groups

Behavioral & policy sciences.

Economic Sociology

Institute for Work & Employment Research

Organization Studies

Technological Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Strategic Management

Economics, Finance & Accounting

Accounting  

Management Science

Information Technology

System Dynamics  

Those interested in a PhD in Operations Research should visit the Operations Research Center .  

PhD Program Structure

Additional information including coursework and thesis requirements.

MIT Sloan Predoctoral Opportunities

MIT Sloan is eager to provide a diverse group of talented students with early-career exposure to research techniques as well as support in considering research career paths.

Rising Scholars Conference

The fourth annual Rising Scholars Conference on October 25 and 26 gathers diverse PhD students from across the country to present their research.

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The goal of the MIT Sloan PhD Program's admissions process is to select a small number of people who are most likely to successfully complete our rigorous and demanding program and then thrive in academic research careers. The admission selection process is highly competitive; we aim for a class size of nineteen students, admitted from a pool of hundreds of applicants.

What We Seek

• Outstanding intellectual ability
• Excellent academic records
• Previous work in disciplines related to the intended area of concentration
• Strong commitment to a career in research

MIT Sloan PhD Program Admissions Requirements Common Questions

Dates and Deadlines

Admissions for 2024 is closed. The next opportunity to apply will be for 2025 admission. The 2025 application will open in September 2024. 

More information on program requirements and application components

Students in good academic standing in our program receive a funding package that includes tuition, medical insurance, and a fellowship stipend and/or TA/RA salary. We also provide a new laptop computer and a conference travel/research budget.

Funding Information

Throughout the year, we organize events that give you a chance to learn more about the program and determine if a PhD in Management is right for you.

PhD Program Events

May phd program overview.

During this webinar, you will hear from the PhD Program team and have the chance to ask questions about the application and admissions process.

June PhD Program Overview

July phd program overview, august phd program overview.

Complete PhD Admissions Event Calendar

Unlike formulaic approaches to training scholars, the PhD Program at MIT Sloan allows students to choose their own adventure and develop a unique scholarly identity. This can be daunting, but students are given a wide range of support along the way - most notably having access to world class faculty and coursework both at MIT and in the broader academic community around Boston.

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Profiles of our current students

MIT Sloan produces top-notch PhDs in management. Immersed in MIT Sloan's distinctive culture, upcoming graduates are poised to innovate in management research and education.

Academic Job Market

Doctoral candidates on the current academic market

Academic Placements

Graduates of the MIT Sloan PhD Program are researching and teaching at top schools around the world.

view recent placements 

MIT Sloan Experience

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The PhD Program is integral to the research of MIT Sloan's world-class faculty. With a reputation as risk-takers who are unafraid to embrace the unconventional, they are engaged in exciting disciplinary and interdisciplinary research that often includes PhD students as key team members.

Research centers across MIT Sloan and MIT provide a rich setting for collaboration and exploration. In addition to exposure to the faculty, PhD students also learn from one another in a creative, supportive research community.

Throughout MIT Sloan's history, our professors have devised theories and fields of study that have had a profound impact on management theory and practice.

From Douglas McGregor's Theory X/Theory Y distinction to Nobel-recognized breakthroughs in finance by Franco Modigliani and in option pricing by Robert Merton and Myron Scholes, MIT Sloan's faculty have been unmatched innovators.

This legacy of innovative thinking and dedication to research impacts every faculty member and filters down to the students who work beside them.

Faculty Links

• Accounting Faculty
• Economic Sociology Faculty
• Finance Faculty
• Information Technology Faculty
• Institute for Work and Employment Research (IWER) Faculty
• Marketing Faculty
• Organization Studies Faculty
• System Dynamics Faculty
• Technological Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Management (TIES) Faculty

Student Research

“MIT Sloan PhD training is a transformative experience. The heart of the process is the student’s transition from being a consumer of knowledge to being a producer of knowledge. This involves learning to ask precise, tractable questions and addressing them with creativity and rigor. Hard work is required, but the reward is the incomparable exhilaration one feels from having solved a puzzle that had bedeviled the sharpest minds in the world!” -Ezra Zuckerman Sivan Alvin J. Siteman (1948) Professor of Entrepreneurship

Sample Dissertation Abstracts - These sample Dissertation Abstracts provide examples of the work that our students have chosen to study while in the MIT Sloan PhD Program.

We believe that our doctoral program is the heart of MIT Sloan's research community and that it develops some of the best management researchers in the world. At our annual Doctoral Research Forum, we celebrate the great research that our doctoral students do, and the research community that supports that development process.

The videos of their presentations below showcase the work of our students and will give you insight into the topics they choose to research in the program.

How Should We Measure the Digital Economy?

2020 PhD Doctoral Research Forum Winner - Avinash Collis

Watch more MIT Sloan PhD Program  Doctoral Forum Videos

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Faculty Directory

Meet our faculty.

2024 Best Online PhD in Training and Development [Doctorate Guide]

A PhD in Training and Development helps you develop your expertise in driving high performance and positive change in both individuals and organizations.

This program combines adult learning, organizational leadership, and human resource development, so graduates are often well equipped to take on high-level roles. Every industry needs training and development professionals, especially as continuous learning becomes the norm.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

With a PhD, you can advance your career further, produce original research, and gain expertise in a field that’s increasingly in-demand for organizations of all types.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Training and Development Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Baylor University

Baylor University offers an EdD in Learning and Organizational Change. The program requires 54 credit hours and typically takes 3 years to complete. It is mostly online but does include two immersions. Online courses are designed to be flexible but still interactive. Applicants do not need to have master’s degrees or GRE or GMAT scores.

Baylor University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers an online program for a PhD in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change. The program requires 60 credits to graduate, and most students can finish within 4 years. Coursework includes Workforce Development, Scenario Planning in Organizations, Theory Building in Applied Disciplines, and more.

Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Kansas State University

Kansas State University offers a Doctorate in Adult Learning and Leadership. This hybrid online and in-person program requires 90 credit hours. Courses are 8 to 14 weeks long. There are two specific courses that must be completed on campus, but they are offered during the summer.

Kansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Louisiana State University – Shreveport

Louisiana State University—Shreveport offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies. Concentrations are available in Leadership Studies, Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, and Health Communication and Leadership. The program requires 63 credit hours, and multiple start dates are available each year. Courses are taught by faculty with real-world experience.

Louisiana State University – Shreveport is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Adult Learning and Development. Students can choose a concentration in Community College Leadership or Adult Learning and Workforce Development. During the fall and spring, Northwestern offers 8 week, fast-track classes.

Northwestern State University of Louisiana is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Rivier University

Rivier University offers an online program for an EdD in Leadership and Learning. The program requires 51 credit hours and usually takes 3 years to complete. Each course is 7 weeks long, with a total of six terms per year. Students can begin work on their dissertations during their first year. The program is intended for working professionals.

Rivier is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign

The University of Illinois—Urbana Champaign offers a Doctor of Education in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership. Students in the program can choose from a variety of concentrations, including Diversity and Equity in Education, Global Studies in Education, Human Resource Development, and more.

The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Learning Technologies. The program is available both on campus and online. Online students are required to attend an annual in-person meeting in the fall but can otherwise complete requirements from anywhere on their own schedule. For both online and on-campus students, new cohorts begin every fall.

The University of North Texas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations. The program is intended for mid-career professionals. Online classes meet weekly via webcam. Students must complete 54 credit hours and a capstone project to graduate. Courses include Leading Inclusive Organizations, Economics of Human Resources, and Data Science.

Vanderbilt University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University offers a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development. The program is mostly online but does include one academic residency. Coursework includes Leading the Future of Education, Tools for Doctoral Research Success, Organizational Decision Making and Judgment, Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis, and more.

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Training and Development Degree Programs

An online PhD in Training and Development is an intensive doctoral program that studies both human and organizational behavior. Ultimately, training and development aims to empower people by enhancing their knowledge and skills, which often leads to professional growth and positive results for their organizations.

Students of this PhD program are required to be working professionals with at least a few years of experience in the field. The program does involve plenty of research, but the focus is on applying theories and findings to create evidence-based solutions for workplace challenges.

Training and development PhD programs are offered in several concentrations, such as global training and development, organizational development, adult learning, and human resource development. Here are some topics that this type of program might tackle:

• Cultural diversity in the workplace
• Optimizing performance using technology
• Effective methods for adult learning
• Adapting training programs for a global workforce
• Creating a healthy company culture
• Implementing efficient management processes
• Addressing complex leadership dilemmas

During the first part of this doctoral program, you’ll take advanced coursework in human resource development, adult learning, career development, and other foundational topics.

Since organizations today are diverse, you can examine real-life challenges across all sorts of settings, including corporate companies, global corporations, startups, and government agencies. Much of your PhD will likely be spent working on a dissertation, where you’ll be supervised by professors with the same research interests.

As preparation for your dissertation, you’ll take several courses on research design for the social sciences as well as qualitative and quantitative research methods. Since you’ll be producing your own original research, you can effectively become a specialist in the training and development field by the time you finish your PhD.

A PhD in Training and Development can be adaptable to your career goals because you’ll have plenty of freedom to decide on your research interests. Graduates typically lead training and development initiatives in companies, work in management positions, or provide organizational consulting. Others may teach in universities or mentor executives and other professionals in taking their performance to the next level.

Common Doctorate in Training and Development Specializations

Since training and development is a broad field, doctorate in learning and development degrees offer various specializations, such as:

• Human Resources Development . One of the most common PhD specializations, human resources development is all about training and motivating employees to improve their productivity, abilities, and knowledge. This involves practices like mentoring, coaching, online courses, tuition assistance, and workshops. The end goal is to promote growth in both employees and the organization as a whole.
• Organizational Development . With an organizational development PhD program, you’ll specialize in managing and refining the processes of an entire organization. Human resource development is one part of this. It also includes making overall communication more seamless, coming up with more innovative and effective products, and removing unnecessary expenses.
• Adult Learning and Development . Adult learning and development puts more emphasis on education, with graduates becoming experts in promoting learning in business organizations, nonprofits, and schools. You’ll delve into various theories of adult education, take into account different learning styles, and apply strategies like project-based learning.
• Organizational Leadership . An organizational leadership PhD will train you in how to take charge of an organization effectively, from deciding on major strategic goals to bringing out the strengths of employees. It’s mainly a business degree that takes into account psychology and sociology. You’ll get familiar with leadership tools and approaches for different workplace situations.
• Global Training and Development . Because more organizations are going global, a PhD specializing in global training and development can teach you how to develop employees and teams with diverse languages, cultures, and perspectives. For example, this could mean using several modes of delivery for trainings and making correct translations to avoid cultural misunderstandings.

There is some overlap among these specializations, so whichever you choose, you’ll still likely take courses in instructional design, career development, and other core topics.

Training and Development Careers & Salaries

A PhD in Training and Development is the highest academic credential in the field, so it can open up opportunities for you to pursue more advanced positions.

For one, many PhD students come from a human resources (HR) background. Because of the intensive coursework, they may become HR managers or training and development managers who supervise staff, lead employee programs, and provide mentoring and coaching.

A training and development doctoral program can help prepare you for management roles in general. After all, you can gain a deeper understanding of how to drive organizational change while helping people achieve their professional goals. Some graduates work in business and organizational analysis, where they analyze organizational structures and challenges and develop solutions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are some careers related to training and development.

Beyond high-ranking positions in an organization, another option for PhD graduates is consultancy. Some graduates become management consultants or learning and development consultants who develop training programs for various companies. They could specialize in corporate training as well and hold workshops and courses on career and personal growth.

With further training, PhD graduates may opt to go into executive, performance, or leadership coaching. This allows them to work with a wide range of individuals, from CEOs to people starting out in their careers. Since a PhD gives plenty of exposure to research, graduates may join the academe as professors and scholars who conduct their own studies.

It’s actually common for graduates to combine several careers. For example, a training and development professional may become a professor, executive coach, and training consultant.

Training and Development PhD Curriculum & Courses

When earning a PhD in Training and Development, you’ll likely come across these courses:

• Foundations of Human Resource Development : This course studies how to train, nurture, and manage employees so they can hone their skills and make a positive impact on their organization.
• Adult Learning : You’ll examine the factors that affect adult learning—including motivation and developmental challenges—with the goal of creating effective educational programs for adults.
• Theory and Practices of Leadership : This course looks at the core elements of leadership—including innovation, ethics, and team-building—and how these play out in actual work situations through case studies.
• Career Development : You’ll learn how to promote career growth for individuals and teams by assessing personal strengths and weaknesses, pinpointing marketable skills, and making a customized plan.
• Instructional Design : This course teaches you how to prepare effective learning resources, following a systematic process where you’ll make prototypes and gather feedback.
• Organization Theory and Design : You’ll examine the social structures of organizations and look at the most common forms of modern organizations, covering topics like decision-making, culture, and power.
• Program Planning and Evaluation : This course goes over the process of designing a training program, from gathering information to developing program steps and measuring outcomes.
• Educational Statistics : You’ll work with methods of inquiry for educational research, including doing hypothesis testing and applying inferential techniques like T-tests.
• Quantitative Research : This in-depth course teaches you how to conduct your own research by using the right quantitative methods and working with data analysis software.
• Qualitative Research : You’ll get to practice handling qualitative data, with methods like field interviews, ethnography, document studies, field observations, and focus-group discussions.

You’ll likely go through most of these courses during your first year, after which you may devote much of your time to your dissertation.

How to Know If a Doctorate in Training and Development Is Right for Me

A doctorate in training and development often appeals to those who would like to advance their careers in management, organizational planning, education, and human resources. A doctorate in training and development might be right for you if you have the following:

• Passion . You have a passion for teaching or mentoring people and helping them grow professionally.
• Curiosity . You’re fascinated with how organizations achieve success along with what makes people tick.
• Experience . You already have some related experience with training and development, whether you’ve studied it formally or it’s part of your professional life.
• Career drive . You want to build a long-term career focused on improving the performance and efficiency of both organizations and people.
• Interest in research . You’re interested in conducting in-depth research and learning about academic theories in adult learning, organizational development, and leadership.
• Time . You have the time and the resources to work on a PhD for several years.

Training and development is held in high importance today in most organizations, and a PhD shows that you have expertise in this topic and can contribute original insights.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions for a PhD in Training and Development tend to be rigorous, with requirements such as:

• Official transcripts . These cover all of the courses you’ve taken at the college and postgraduate level.
• Recommendation letters . You’ll may submit letters from managers at work and previous professors.
• Resume . Most programs expect you to have related work experiences, extracurriculars, and education.
• Personal essay . You’ll likely explain your background, career, and research interests.

Schools with a more traditional admissions process may ask for GRE or GMAT scores too.

Accreditation

Getting a PhD in Training and Development takes plenty of dedication, so it’s strategic to choose a reputable school that’s regionally accredited.

For a school to receive regional accreditation, it has to be reviewed thoroughly by external accrediting organizations, and it’s evaluated based on high educational standards. A PhD from an accredited school will often make a stronger impression on future employers. If you’re planning to work in the academe, many universities only credit PhDs from accredited schools. Studying at an accredited school will also allow you to apply for federal financial aid.

You can verify the accreditation status of prospective schools by visiting the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) online. 

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Applying for financial aid can significantly lighten the expenses of doctoral students who qualify. Many PhD programs offer funding to students, with some programs giving full scholarships with stipend once you’re admitted. These PhD programs tend to be more competitive, though.

Alternatively, you might be able to find scholarships from external sources, especially if you have strong academic credentials and a good track record in your field. Some employers even offer financial assistance to workers who are advancing their education.

You can also look into assistantships and fellowships. Many PhD programs allow you to do research or teaching assistantships while studying. Fellowships may be available, too, but these often give you funding for 1 year or less. To apply for federal aid, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . Your FASFA can determine your eligibility for federal student loans, grants, and work-study programs.

Training and Development Professional Organizations

Since training and development is a highly collaborative field, you can benefit from joining professional organizations to expand your network and access more career opportunities.

Here are three major professional organizations for training and development specialists:

• Association for Talent Development (ATD)
• International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI)
• Quality Matters Instructional Designers Association (QM IDA)

These organizations have multiple branches across the country, with thousands of members in total. By joining, you could receive event invites, trainings, and up-to-date industry resources.

What Is Training and Development?

Training and development is the process of providing education to employees so they can sharpen their skills and increase their job performance within an organization.

It’s usually coordinated by an organization’s human resources department, with initiatives ranging from one-day workshops to regular mentoring and coaching. Training and development can target a variety of skills, including hard skills like data analysis or strategic planning as well as soft skills like communication and empathy.

Programs can be delivered in different formats, such as online learning, in-person lectures, group discussions, and on-the-job training.

Is Training and Development a Good Career?

Yes, training and development is a good career for many professionals. Because the work world has become very dynamic and fast-paced, organizations are investing more in training and development so their employees can adapt.

This opens up demand for training and development experts. Aside from leading in-house teams, they might work in management, coaching, or business consulting—all of which are fields with many highly paid jobs. At the same time, this career can be fulfilling if you enjoy helping people directly and making a significant contribution to an organization.

What Can You Do with a Doctoral Degree in Training and Development?

A PhD in Training and Development may help you advance in your current career as well as open up new career paths for you. It can prepare you to become a thought leader in your field, whether as an academic researcher or as an organizational consultant who can provide high-level advice to companies.

Possible career paths include human resource management, training and development management, and organizational planning. Some experts become executive coaches or trainers who conduct one-on-one sessions for professionals or group workshops for companies.

What Does a Training and Development Specialist Do?

A training and development specialist plans, creates, and evaluates training programs and materials, usually for employees of an organization.

Training programs tend to be diverse, with formats such as orientation sessions, negotiation workshops, team-building activities, and consultations with executives. It’s a fairly involved job because training and development specialists handle the entire process.

In addition to doing surveys and interviews to design a good training program, they may either teach the program themselves or supervise instructors. Afterwards, they’ll also assess results and gather feedback.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Training and Development Online?

Most PhD programs in training and development require around 60 credits or less. This is actually a bit shorter compared to other PhDs, which can reach up to 120 credits. A PhD can typically be completed in 3 to 5 years with full-time study.

If no dissertation is required, a PhD can often be completed in 3 years with full-time enrollment. It’s traditional for PhD students to study full-time. Since more online PhDs are available, though, and many training and development specialists prefer to stay active in their careers while studying, some programs may allow for part-time enrollment. This is also the case with many online masters in training and development programs.

Is a PhD in Training and Development Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Training and Development is worth it for many students. A PhD is a well-respected credential that shows you’re an authority in your field. This could help you qualify for leadership or high-level management roles. PhD holders have the highest median wage compared to other education levels, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Training and development is also a thriving field that’s estimated to grow faster than average. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% job growth for training and development specialists and managers over the next ten years.

A PhD program can enable you to develop specialized expertise. Having high levels of industry knowledge and a deep understanding of learning principles can help you stand out in this growing field.

Getting Your PhD in Training and Development Online

If you love solving organizational challenges and empowering people to achieve their goals, then you might consider getting a PhD in Training and Development to enhance your career.

A PhD can train you in rigorous, evidence-based approaches and allow you to make your own mark in the field. As a working professional, you might find it even more convenient to earn your PhD online.

If you’re ready to advance your expertise with a PhD in Training and Development, you can start exploring doctoral programs from accredited schools today.

Top 10 Doctorate in Training and Development Programs Online 2024

Find your perfect school.

In this article, we profile the top 10 online doctorates in training and development.

The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the employment of training and development managers should grow by ten percent by 2026. Job prospects in this field should be favorable due to the continuous need for education and training in the workforce. Earning an online PhD or doctorate in training and development shows employers you have the highest skill set in the industry. To help qualify for management roles, top institutions offer PhD in training and development online or on-campus.

Top 10 Online PhD Training and Development Methodology

We looked at approximately 30 doctorates or PhDs in training and development online listed by reputable internet sources and the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator. We reviewed hybrid or fully online doctorates in training and development, or closely related degree programs. To narrow our original pool of schools, we applied the following criteria: Accreditation from a reputable governing body, school or program rankings with a major publication like U.S. News and World Report, and raw affordability of graduate tuition and fees. We then listed the programs according to raw affordability.

Featured Programs

Below is our list of the top 10 online programs for a doctorate or PhD in training and development.

Note: This ranking/article was originally published in April 2019 and was last updated in June 2022. The 2022 tuition updates may affect the ranking order, but the list has not been re-ordered.

#10 – University of Illinois

Online edd in human resource development, champaign, illinois.

The University of Illinois offers one of the best doctorate programs in training and development online on our list. The EdD in HRD consists of 64 credit hours, a dissertation proposal, and thesis research. Classes include:

• adult and professional education
• instructional and training system design
• learning on the job
• organizational development

The program focuses on the preparation of scholar-practitioners and requires the completion of a dissertation and thesis. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Illinois #46 among the best national universities.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $17,823

#9 – Northcentral University

Online phd in global training and development, la jolla, california.

Northcentral University’s online PhD in training and development is designed to prepare tomorrow’s leaders in the field of training and performance improvement. A total of 60 credits are required. Enrolled students take 20 classes that can be completed over the course of 45 months. The program offers unique flexibility, unlike most PhD programs. Weekly course starts, no scheduled lecture hours, no group assignments, and the ability to schedule courses around personal and professional obligations make the program convenient for working professionals. Also, the program provides 100% doctoral faculty so that students are mentored by the most knowledgeable instructors. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Northcentral among the top national universities.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $18,207

#8 – Sullivan University

Online phd in management, louisville, kentucky.

One of the top PhD in training and development online is the doctorate in management from Sullivan University. This fully online PhD program prepares doctoral candidates through courses, relevant and original research opportunities, and extensive opportunities in teaching or management training. Students may choose from four concentrations to tailor their degree. These concentrations include:

• conflict management
• human resource leadership
• information technology management
• strategic management

Some of the online courses offered are:

• advanced qualitative and quantitative research
• organizations and external environments
• research design and analysis

Admission requires three references, official transcripts, and a current resume. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Sullivan among the best regional universities in the South.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $15,840

#7 – Ashford University

Online phd in organizational development and leadership, san diego, california.

One of the best online PhD programs in training and development on our list is the PhD in organizational development and leadership at Ashford University. This doctorate requires the completion of 62 credits with classes that run six to nine weeks in length. Classes cover topics in assessment tools for organizational leadership, professional and business ethics in organizational leadership, and the psychology of leadership. There are also four specializations offered that allow students to tailor their degree to fit with career goals. These concentrations include:

• innovation and entrepreneurship
• organizational diversity
• standard organizational development and leadership
• training and e-learning

Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Ashford as a top regional university in the West.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14,664

#6 – Colorado State University

Online phd in organizational learning, performance, and change, fort collins, colorado.

Colorado State University’s doctorate in training and development online is among the most affordable on our list. The program is designed for working executives, researchers, and academics. Classes meet following a unique structure of bi-weekly Saturday meetings held face-to-face in downtown Denver, though some classes may be delivered partially online. Classes include:

• evaluation and assessment in OLPC
• foundations of educational research
• systems leadership
• theory and practice change
• workforce development

Admission requirements include an undergraduate and master’s degree from a regionally accredited post-secondary institution, a minimum 3.00 GPA, ten to twelve years of advanced experience in a related discipline, and satisfactory GRE or GMAT scores from the past five years. U.S. News and World Report ranks CSU #140 in best national universities and #141 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,000

#5 – Indiana Wesleyan University

Online phd in organizational leadership, marion, indiana.

One of the top PhD programs in training and development online on our list is the PhD in organizational leadership at Indiana Wesleyan University. The program is offered online or in a blended format if enrolled in the on-campus program. Degree candidates can finish the program in as little as 40 months. If enrolled in the online PhD, a residency requirement must be met. The residency consists of living on campus during three one-week-long Summer Institutes. Students must attend classes, workshops, and events during the Summer Institutes. Online courses include advanced leadership theory, leadership and personal development, organization theory and design, and statistical research design. Admission to the program is selective. Applicants must hold a master’s degree from an accredited college or university, have an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher, and have worked in a leadership role for at least five years. U.S. News and World Report ranks Indiana Wesleyan #32 among the best regional universities in the Midwest and #67 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $10,440

#4 – University of Idaho

Online phd in adult organizational learning and leadership, moscow, idaho.

The University of Idaho offers one of the top online PhD programs in training and development on our list. The program is designed for working professionals who want to enhance their skills in organizational leadership and teach professional development in the workplace or in an academic setting. It is not a fully online program, most classes take place on campus. However, some coursework may be completed online. The program’s core classes include:

• adult and transformational learning
• foundations of human resource development
• future of education and work

Degree candidates can choose between the thesis pathway or the non-thesis option, depending on career goals. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Idaho #165 among the best national universities and #87 in top public schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,912

#3 – Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Online edd in adult learning and development, natchitoches, louisiana.

Through the Northwestern State University of Louisiana, students may earn doctorate in training and development online degrees, such as the EdD in adult learning and development. This uniquely designed degree prepares practitioners to work with adult learners and workforce development. The program offers two concentrations: Community college leadership and adult learning and workforce development. Classes are delivered online and structured to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. Admission requirements include an earned master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, satisfactory GRE scores, and a completed application. The GRE requirement may be waived if the applicant earned a master’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #107-#141 in the best regional universities in the South.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,614

#2 – University of Arkansas

Online edd in human resource and workforce development education, fayetteville, arkansas.

The University of Arkansas offers a type of online PhD in training and development that is ideal for working professionals. The online EdD in human resource and workforce development education can be completed 100% online and allows seven years to satisfy degree requirements. To graduate, degree candidates must complete online courses, a candidacy examination, and a dissertation. Applicants must take the GRE to qualify for admission. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Arkansas #152 in the best national universities and #78 in top public schools. Also, several of the online graduate programs have earned rankings among the top 20 and top 50 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,018

#1 – Liberty University

Online dba in human resources, lynchburg, virginia.

The most affordable PhD in training and development online program is the flexible business and HR degree from Liberty University. Liberty University offers a variation of this kind of degree. The DBA in human resources consists of 60 credit hours and takes three years, on average, to complete. Courses include:

• advanced business research methods
• contemporary issues in human resource management
• human resource development
• organizational and executive coaching, and strategic allocation of financial resources

Admission requires a nationally accredited master’s degree with a 3.0 or above GPA. Liberty is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school #230-#301 in the best national institutions.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $8,630

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do with an online phd in training and development.

Online PhD programs in training and development are designed to prepare and educate tomorrow’s leaders and experts in the field of training and performance improvement. Jobs for individuals with online PhD in training and development or closely related degrees vary by industry. However, jobs in academia or non-academic careers are among the most common roles for people with this type of degree.

So, what can you do with an online PhD in training and development? If you desire research as a potential career choice, then pursuing jobs in academia will be the route to take. Research jobs in academia require extensive scholarly research. If you’ve completed a dissertation, then you have extensive research experience that can be showcased when applying for a job. If you opted not to complete a dissertation, or your program did not push scholarly research, then you will likely find work outside academia.

Non-academic careers for PhD in training and development online degree holders include human development jobs in healthcare services and administration and human resources, among other industries. As organizations expand, training and development of existing employees and current employees will be needed. Experts in training and development will oversee training teams and meet the development needs of the organization.

How much will I earn with an online PhD in training and development?

We examined reputable salary reporting research agencies to gather information on earnings for individuals working in training and development.

According to PayScale, a global compensation research organization that collects salary data, the average salary for training and development managers is $74,351. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the average salary for training and development managers in 2017 is $108,250. While there is a considerable difference between the two reporting averages, industry and experience impact the number.

BLS reports high wages for training and development managers working in top industries. The five top-paying industries include professional, scientific, and technical services; management of companies and enterprises; finance and insurance; educational services at the state, local, and private level; and healthcare and social assistance. The highest reporting industry was professional, scientific, and technical services. Training and development managers in this industry earned an average salary of $118,140.

Experience impacts earnings, so individuals should expect higher pay according to the time spent working as a training and development manager. An individual with five to ten years of experience in this role will typically earn $10,000 to $15,000 more than an individual with one to two years of experience.

How long will it take to earn an online PhD in training and development degree?

The overall completion time varies by online PhD in training and development program. However, according to our list of programs and schools, the average completion time for a PhD is 60 months. While some programs require less or more time, many online programs are flexible and allow students to work at their own pace.

Several factors impact the length of time it takes to earn an online PhD in training and development or closely related degree. Enrollment makes the biggest impact on length of time a program requires. Part-time enrollment generally requires less time in the classroom, though takes longer to complete degree requirements. Students enrolled part-time do not take more than one or two classes at a time. Some of the PhD programs on our list that offer part-time pathways to earning the degree require students to take only one class at a time. Full-time enrollment requires more time spent on coursework and in classes, but the length of time it takes to earn a PhD is compressed.

Another factor that impacts time spent working toward your degree is research. Often, research-intensive programs require more time than non-research-intensive degrees. A PhD generally takes longer to earn than an EdD due to research requirements. Some programs require a dissertation, while others do not. If your career path does not require extensive research, then you might consider a non-thesis or less research-based program.

What are the admission requirements for online PhD in training and development degree programs?

Admission requirements for online PhD in training and development programs vary. Selective and top-ranked schools may ask for requirements such as high GRE scores, while lesser ranked institutions might waive the scores if undergraduate performance is above average. Overall, admission boards desire academic promise and pay close attention to certain criteria when examining applications.

To outshine competition, applicants should showcase a strong undergraduate or graduate performance with an outstanding GPA. Some schools require undergraduate GPAs to be above a certain threshold. Top-tier schools require a strong GPA of at least 3.0 or 3.5, while other schools may consider an applicant with a lower GPA. Schools that waive the GRE requirement may do so if an applicant’s GPA is higher than 3.0. Again, some top-ranked schools may also waive the GRE but only if the applicant holds a 3.5 or better.

Official transcripts from all schools attended are required by admission boards. Be prepared to have your school submit scores electronically. This submission may require a small fee in addition to the cost of the application.

Other admission requirements vary by program. However, most online PhD in training and development programs require letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, writing samples, and research experience.

Are there specializations or licenses associated with online PhD in training and development?

The majority of online PhD degrees in training and development on our list do not offer specializations or licensing credentials, since the degree itself is highly focused. However, a select number of schools that landed in our research pool do offer concentrations in human development or education development.

Human development, one of the available concentrations, offers insight into how individuals develop biologically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. By electing the human development concentration as part of the PhD program in training and development, additional research may be required. Through studying concepts and theories in human development, degree candidates gain knowledge they can bring into any field. From human resources to curriculum development in schools, the study of human development can be useful.

In some EdD programs on our list, candidates may elect to focus their studies on areas such as education development or curriculum development. These concentrations are designed for individuals seeking leadership roles in education. Adult learning and training is another common concentration or specialization that can be selected during your PhD studies, if available within your program.

For those seeking human resources careers, some PhD programs will offer specific HR classes, or even concentrations, to emphasize interest in this specialized area of training and development.

• EdD Online Programs
• Doctorate Educational Leadership Online
• Doctorate Organizational Leadership Online
• PhD Human Resources Management Online
• Cheapest Online PhD in Finance
• Online PhD Programs in Management Information Systems
• Online PhD Programs in Psychology

This concludes our list of the top 10 online PhD or doctorate in training and development programs.

Steps to a PhD

Some of our graduates at spring 2023 commencement,along with professors Friedrich Sommer, Dan Feldman, Michael Silver, Joni Wallis, Marla Feller, and Ehud Isacoff. Photo by  GradImages (link is external) .

Neuroscience is a broad field that requires multidisciplinary training as well as intensive study of specific concepts and techniques related to each student’s primary research focus. The Neuroscience PhD Program is designed to provide highly individualized, flexible training that fulfills both these needs. Our PhD training program has a standard completion time of 5.5 to 6 years.  The program is PhD-granting only, there is no master’s degree program.  The following is a general overview of the steps to a Neuroscience PhD at UC Berkeley. For detailed policies, see  Resources For Current Students

First-year students begin the program with an intensive, 10-day “Neuro Camp” course held just prior to the official start of fall semester classes. The course features lectures on key neuroscience concepts and on classical and emerging experimental techniques and research seminars by Berkeley Neuroscience faculty. In addition, hands-on research projects in faculty laboratories cover techniques ranging from molecular neuroscience to neurophysiology and optogenetics to fMRI. The goal is to provide an immersive introduction to multiple disciplines and experimental approaches within neuroscience. Our Neuro Camp unites neuroscience-oriented students from multiple PhD programs.

Laboratory Rotations

During Year 1, each student spends three 10-week periods performing research projects in different faculty laboratories. The choice of laboratories is based on student preference. The goal is to expose students to different techniques and approaches in neuroscience and to provide training in experimental design, critical analysis of data, and presentation of research findings. Performance in rotations is evaluated and graded. Rotations also allow students to identify the laboratory in which their thesis research will be performed. Students formally present results from the laboratory rotations in a dedicated course designed to instruct students in clear, effective presentation of scientific findings.

The program has highly flexible course requirements. These are designed to provide students with sufficiently broad training in all areas of neuroscience, while allowing focus in the area of primary research interest.

During the first two years of the program, each student is required to take one course in each of three broad areas: (A) Cellular, Molecular & Developmental Neuroscience; (B) Systems and Computational Neuroscience; and (C) Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience. Each student consults with faculty advisers to determine the most appropriate individual courses within these areas.

Students must also complete a one-semester course in Applied Statistics in Neuroscience, or an equivalent approved course in statistics or quantitative analysis methods, as well as one elective course. 

For additional details, see the Neuroscience Course Curriculum.

Training in Teaching 

Effective teaching is a critical skill required in most academic and research careers. Students are required to serve as Graduate Student Instructors (GSIs; also knows as Teaching Assistants) for two semesters. GSI teaching occurs during Years 2 and 3 and provides supervised teaching experience in laboratory and discussion settings. Teaching is evaluated, and outstanding teaching is rewarded with annual Outstanding Graduate Student Instructor Awards. One to three of our students typically win this award each year.

Qualifying Examination

Students complete an Oral Qualifying Exam during the spring semester of Year 2. This exam is structured around a written thesis proposal and oral examination on this proposal, related research areas, and foundational questions in neuroscience. During the exam, a faculty committee tests the student’s knowledge of these areas and general neuroscience. Students must demonstrate the ability to recognize important research problems, propose relevant experimental approaches, and display comprehensive knowledge of relevant subjects. Students must pass the qualifying examination before advancing to doctoral candidacy.

Thesis Research

Thesis research begins after the completion of rotations in spring or summer of Year 1. During Year 2, students conduct thesis research while completing required coursework and GSI teaching. Years 3 to 5 are spent primarily on thesis research. Progress on thesis research is evaluated by the student, the thesis advisor, and a Thesis Committee of three additional faculty members. Thesis research is expected to lead to publication in top-ranked, refereed scientific journals. Students are strongly encouraged to present posters and speak at scientific meetings and conferences. During Year 4, they make a formal presentation of their research progress to their peers. Completion of thesis research is determined by the Thesis Committee. While there is no formal thesis defense, students present a formal thesis seminar to the neuroscience community in their last semester of candidacy.

Other Program Activities

During training, students are expected to participate in a range of activities to increase their exposure to neuroscience research within and outside their specialty areas. These include the annual Neuroscience Conference, the Neuroscience Seminar Series, as well as other affiliated seminar series and lectures. Students also participate in journal clubs, lab meetings, and multi-laboratory special interest group meetings focused on specific scientific topics. See Program Activities for a comprehensive list.

Education, PhD

School of education.

The overarching goal of the School of Education’s PhD in Education program is to develop scholars who will have advanced research skills for improving education practice, with specific emphases on policy analysis and education improvement. The program strives to prepare candidates that are equipped to:

• meet the myriad challenges associated with systemic education change;
• apply exceptional content area expertise contextualized within a comprehensive multidisciplinary frame of reference;
• successfully bridge the theory and research to evidence-based practice gap;
• be actively involved in public policy development and evaluation;
• conduct research on complex databases linking educational practices to student outcomes, or lead laboratory- or school-based research programs that inform efforts to improve educational practices and student outcomes; and
• develop national models of educational practice that guide curriculum development and educator preparation.

For Program updates and more information, please visit  https://education.jhu.edu/academics/phd/

Admission Requirements

At minimum, applicants to the PhD program should hold a master’s degree from an accredited college or university. Previous degrees must document outstanding academic achievement in an area of study closely associated with the objectives of the program. Applicants must submit the online admission application form, application fee, and official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. If the earned degree or credit is from an educational institution abroad, the candidate’s academic record must be evaluated by a credential evaluation agency before consideration for admission. Applicants are required to earn superior scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) (taken within the past five years), present acceptable TOEFL or IELTS scores (if an international student), and demonstrate potential to become top scholars. Additionally, applicants are required to submit a curriculum vitae, a personal statement (outlining professional plans, goals, and expectations related to the PhD program), dispositions survey, and three letters of reference affirming the applicant’s qualifications for advanced graduate study and potential for professional development in the field. Selected applicants who meet the entrance requirements will be invited to interview with the doctoral admissions committee.

Program Requirements

Program structure and requirements.

Program requirements include earning a minimum of 72 graduate credits taken at the doctoral level at Johns Hopkins University. While the program will be tailored to the specific learning needs of each student, it includes the following coursework components:

• ED.855.725 Research Landscape*
• ED.883.812 Data Workflow*
• ED.883.601  Basic and Inferential Statistics*
• *indicates a required course
• ED.855.815 Science of Learning*
• ED.855.764 Schools in Society*
• ED.855.835 Socio-Cultural Perspectives*
• ED.855.723 Education Policy Practicum*
• ED.855.855  Research Proseminar^
• ED.855.854 Practice Proseminar
• ED.855.852 Research Practicum^
• ED.883.723 Hierarchical Linear Models^
• ED.883.711  Qualitative Research Methodology^
• ED.855.853 Savvy Surveys^
• ED.855.704 Economics of Education
• ED.855.701 Introduction to Causal Inference^
• ED.855.702 Casual Inference When Regression Fails^
• ED.855.840 Doctoral Research
• ^indicates a research elective
• Dissertation Research (18 credit hours)

In addition to successfully completing all the coursework requirements, candidates must also satisfy the following program benchmarks:

• Research progress
• Written and oral comprehensive examinations
• Dissertation proposal oral examination
• Graduate Board oral examination
• Final dissertation exam

Each student will receive an annual written evaluation from the School of Education’s Doctoral Studies Committee detailing their progress in meeting the required benchmarks at the end of each spring semester.

All School of Education PhD students will devote at least four years to full-time study and research as a resident student. This period of time will provide opportunity for full engagement and participation in the academic community and allow students to develop and demonstrate the scholarly capabilities required of the degree. The typical program of study is eight semesters, with six semesters devoted to coursework and research/teaching intensive experiences and two semesters devoted primarily to independent dissertation research. Students will typically enroll in 12 hours per semester for the first three years of their program and 9 hours per semester during the fourth year of their program, for a total of 90 credit hours. All students are expected to maintain enrollment as full-time graduate students over the course of the program. With the approval of their major adviser and director of the PhD program, students may transfer up to 12 credit hours of previously completed graduate-level coursework to substitute for selected required courses in the program.

Typically, each year four-to-eight PhD students will be admitted each year to begin classes in the fall semester. The majority of required courses will be delivered on the Baltimore Homewood campus in a face-to-face format, although students may (with approval) enroll in selected elective courses in divisions throughout the university.

Students must complete qualifying exams after completing two years of study. The successful completion of the written documents and oral defense of those documents allows the student to proceed to the dissertation proposal.

Dissertation

The program is designed as an apprenticeship model leading to a traditional research dissertation. The expectation is that students will be developing the skills and background knowledge throughout the program required to pursue a traditional research dissertation. Although the dissertation is not part of the formal coursework, the program is designed to put a student on track to develop an area of expertise as the foundation for an independent research project directed by the adviser. Students are expected to complete and defend a dissertation proposal by the end of the third year of study and use the final year of the program to complete and defend the dissertation. The dissertation is expected to demonstrate mastery of the relevant literature and scholarship in the collection and interpretation of data. The work should be appropriate for publication in high impact journals in the student’s area of expertise. The dissertation will be presented at a final oral defense before the student’s Dissertation Advisory Committee.

Note: Full tuition assistance and annual stipends are available to support selected outstanding candidates . For more information about the PhD program, please visit https://education.jhu.edu/academics/phd/ .

Learning Outcomes

Program goals.

Graduates will be prepared to fill faculty and research scientist positions at research-intensive universities or secure positions at research institutes and centers that conduct and manage large-scale education-based evaluations. Upon successful program completion we expect that graduates will:

• Be prepared for employment in research/faculty positions at top-tier research institutions.
• Contribute to the interdisciplinary public discourse on education improvement.
• Engage in and promote evidence-based practices through the application of rigorous methodology.
• Link education research to policy and practice.
• Provide leadership in the field by developing an independent line of ethical and culturally responsive research.
• Contribute to development of the next generation of scholars.
• Be able to influence school policy and reform.

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Think Postgrad

This Doctoral Training Programme guide takes you through the key differences with a PhD. While searching through PhD options, you may have come across doctoral training programmes. You may also read about Doctoral Training Partnerships or Centres for Doctoral Training.

What is a DTP (Doctoral Training Programme)?

A doctoral training programme (DTP) is usually a funded PhD course. Research Councils , charitable trusts and other major funders often award these studentships to Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs). CDTs are partnerships that run across several universities with a unified goal to work on joint research topics. CDTs often link up with industry partners. These industry links have the double benefit of supporting the funding and giving the research candidates experience in industry while they complete their PhD.  

A doctoral training programme follows a clear four-year structure, unlike a PhD or DPhil. The first year focuses on training the candidate’s research skills to prepare them for the next three years, armed with stronger methods and skills. The next three years are very research intensive. Let’s break these differences down further below:   

The research topic for a Doctoral Training Programme

As DTPs are funded by Centres for Doctoral Training, candidates will focus on a pre-determined research question. This means the topic is set by the institution. Unlike a self-funded PhD where the researcher works towards their own proposal, a Doctoral Training Programme will guide the researcher to work within a framework of a wider, central proposal. 

DTPs give less choice than in a traditional PhD. However, it's worth noting that although a self-funded PhD offers you more freedom with your proposal, the finished thesis rarely stays close to the original question.

If you are set on a particular subject, perhaps a self-funded PhD is the best route for you. However, if you’re open to a wider topic within a set field and looking for a framework to research within, it would be worthwhile exploring a DTP.  

Subjects you can study as part of a Doctoral Training Partnership:

Seven Research Councils, along with Innovate UK and Research England , are responsible for funding in the UK . The groupings are in subject area and it's worth spending some time checking through their individual sites for guides and links to doctoral training programme funding.

• Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
• Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
• Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
• Medical Research Council (MRC)
• Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
• Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

How long is a DTP?

As a guide, a Doctoral Training Programme normally lasts 4 years, sometimes called 1+3. You'll complete a structured first year, followed by 3 years of research.

It’s worth considering that while this is longer than a PhD, DTPs are fully funded. Do consider whether the additional year will impact your future plans.  

A structured first year

On a Doctoral Training Programme, you would build your research skill and methods through a mixture of lectures, seminars, symposia, and practical sessions. Centres for Doctoral Training work together with the university’s Graduate School to prepare students for transferable skills such as qualitative and quantitative research methods and communication. These skills will carry you through the next three years and beyond academia. You will have the opportunity to focus on weak spots you didn't focus on in your undergraduate degree. 

As universities recruit several DTP candidates each year, you will find that the first year cohort of researchers all train at the same time. This allows the university to really nurture you as a new researcher. You'll be doing this while training with peers.  

A competitive application process

Doctoral Training Programmes often offer a competitive stipend, an annual maintenance grant (sometimes tax free) and fees are paid directly to the university, so there is less administration for the successful candidate.  In 2023/24, the minimum stipend is £18,622, paid in regular instalments. Because of the financial support, applying to DTPs is a highly competitive process.  

If you're applying to a DTP, you will be expected to submit an application form and CV, as well as sit an interview and a written or practical test. Interviews can vary from being with an individual to a large panel. It’s important to prepare for every interview of course! But if you're applying to a DTP, it’s worthwhile spending some time rehearsing interviews with a group of friends and working on the transitions between a written test and an interview, so that you're not under pressure on the interview day.

Difference between other PhDs and a DTP  

To summarise all of the points above:

• Almost all DTPs are fully funded, often with a competitive stipend. Some even offer additional funding for a research training support grant.
• Applications to a DTP can be extremely competitive, so if you’re thinking of applying to one, spend time on your application, brush up your interview skills and work on a few tests before your interview rehearsals.
• The first year of a DTP will see you join a cohort of other students, and you will form a research community. If group projects and directed learning are not for you, then perhaps consider a traditional PhD. However, if you’re keen on a transition from your masters to research degree, a DTP may have the perfect balance for you. 

Explore the latest PhD Studentships and research study funding opportunities on Postgraduate Studentships . Discover what PhD Studentships attract UKRI funding . Don't forget to join our mailing list for up-to-date advice and opportunities. 

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How can we make PhD training fit for the modern world? Broaden its philosophical foundations

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You have highlighted how PhD training assessment has stagnated, despite evolving educational methodologies (see Nature 613 , 414 (2023) and Nature 627 , 244; 2024 ). In particular, you note the mismatch between the current PhD journey and the multifaceted demands of modern research and societal challenges.

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Future audiologist to come full circle on Cochlear Implant journey

When she was five years old, Priyanka Gupte received her first cochlear implant at Lurie Children’s Hospital. Fast forward a couple of decades, and she’s returning to Chicago to become a provider in the same audiology clinic, caring for pediatric patients with hearing loss.

Gupte, in her third year of the #2 ranked University of Iowa Doctor of Audiology program, begins her externship in the summer, working alongside clinical audiologists treating patients and counseling their families. 

“It will be exciting to return to my roots and the personal connection I have with the Cochlear Implant Program at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital,” she said. 

Gupte was diagnosed with bilateral severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss just before her second birthday. After initially wearing hearing aids, she was fitted with a CI in her left ear and received a second CI in her right ear several years later.

“Initially, my right ear was not a candidate for the CI, as I was still getting benefit from my hearing aid. However, my hearing loss was progressive, and ultimately my residual hearing was gone,” she said. “The surgeon who first operated on me agreed it was time for the second surgery to happen.”

Living with hearing aids -- and later CIs -- pointed her to a communication sciences and disorders undergraduate major at New York University. While she initially leaned toward a career as a speech-language pathologist, an influential NYU professor encouraged her to consider audiology. 

The paradigm shift from audiology patient to audiology provider was impactful, Gupte said, as was the care she received from the CI audiologist at Lurie Children’s Hospital, a clinician she calls not only an advocate, but a role model. 

“(As a patient) she always kept me up to date on CI technology, but what I really appreciated was how she listened to me. She knew my parents had their own opinions, but she put my opinions first as I got older. She helped teach me how to maintain my CIs and urged me to be honest about my hearing.” she said. “I must credit this audiologist for being so supportive and incredible in her care.”

As a future audiologist, Gupte knows her own journey with hearing loss helps her relate to clients she treats at Iowa’s Wendell Johnson Speech and Hearing Clinic, the training clinic within Iowa's Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD). ”Patients appreciate hearing stories similar to what they face, which an audiologist with a hearing loss can tell them,” she said.

Her mentors agree.

“Our pediatric patients with cochlear implants are delighted to encounter Priyanka, a clinician who wears devices just like them,” said Julie Jeon, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor in CSD. “Their faces light up as they point to Priyanka’s sound processors, excited to share this connection with their parents.”

Within the audiology profession, Gupte is among the minority of clinicians with a hearing loss, and that brings inevitable challenges. Most testing equipment and protocols were developed with an assumption that the audiologist can use normal hearing. For example, listening checks on patients’ hearing aids usually require a special stethoscope, which didn’t work well with Gupte’s CIs.

However, she did not face these difficulties alone and is quick to credit the clinical faculty in CSD for troubleshooting and cheering her on.

“My supervisors at Wendell Johnson were so helpful. They reached out to Iowa’s former audiology students with hearing loss to find out what has worked for them. Using their experiences, I figured out what would work for me. Having a supportive team of clinical instructors really helped me grow my confidence as a clinician,” she said. 

As her teacher, Jeon believes any effort spent in clinical trouble-shooting is far outweighed by Gupte’s role in  creating an environment where others can be authentically themselves.  

“ Priyanka's unique perspective as an audiologist with a cochlear implant has truly enriched our cultural competence within the healthcare sector, fostering a more inclusive environment for all individuals seeking care,” she said. 

“Leveraging the expertise of audiologists with personal experience of cochlear implants can lead to a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to patient care, ultimately fostering a more equitable healthcare landscape for all.”

NOTICE: The University of Iowa Center for Advancement is an operational name for the State University of Iowa Foundation, an independent, Iowa nonprofit corporation organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, publicly supported charitable entity working to advance the University of Iowa. Please review its full disclosure statement.

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