Student Learning Outcomes

1. Explain foundational knowledge of literacy history, theories, research, and instructional practice

2. Summarize and synthesize understanding of a topically-focused body of literacy literature

3. Explain critical issues in cultural diversity and equity in literacy research, teaching, and service

4. Advances an advocacy and leadership-oriented professional identity

5. Show knowledge of strategies for engaging students, families, and communities in promoting literacy for all

6. Demonstrate expertise as a literacy teacher educator, including undergraduate and graduate teaching, field supervision, advising, and mentoring

7. Conduct publishable original literacy research

Program Requirements

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Literacy Education provides students with the opportunity to gain expertise in cognitive, social, and critical perspectives toward language and literacy development, instruction, and teacher education. Students learn to conduct and publish significant scholarly work, design innovative curricula and assessment, advocate for literacy policy, and teach pre- and in-service teachers. They draw on Reading and Language Arts Department faculty expertise and courses, as well as offerings from across the School of Education and University, to develop a 90-credit program of study that focuses on childhood literacy, adolescent literacy, or teaching English as an additional language.

Formal application includes a completed SOE application, three references, college/university transcripts, and competitive GRE scores. Students who are non-native speakers of English are also required to submit TOEFL (or IELTS) scores. Successful applicants typically have at least 3 years K-12 teaching experience, a Master’s degree in education or related area, preferably in literacy, reading education, or English education for native or non-native speakers, competitive GREs and TOEFL (or IELTS) scores, a well written personal statement indicating focus, drive, and knowledge of literacy-related Ph.D. career paths, and references who speak to the candidate’s potential to contribute to the literacy field.