Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction - Second Language Acquisition and Teacher Education

The Department of Curriculum & Instruction believes in addressing critical issues of learning, teaching and social justice at global and local levels. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the 2016 U.S. News & World Report ranking us 7th in the nation. The department emphasizes preparation and continuing professional development of early childhood, elementary and secondary teachers and teacher educators. Faculty and students are committed to seeking deep interconnections among theory, research, and practice. One of the key strengths of our department is the selection of our academic offerings--all designed to prepare undergraduate and graduate students to take on the challenges of education for students of today and tomorrow. Students can grow in their profession by developing new skills and by gaining in-depth knowledge on research that matters.

Applicants must have earned at least a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college in the United States or a comparable degree from a recognized institution of higher learning abroad. A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 (A=4.0), or comparable GPA for an international applicant, for last two years of undergraduate study is a minimum requirement for admission. IELTS (academic exam) - 7.5, TOEFL iBT -103
Masters students are admitted to the EdM with licensure, EdM, MA or MS degrees in the Department of Curriculum and Education. EdM with licensure students gain a masters degree and teaching license, while taking classes and doing teaching placements. EdM students focus on classes and do not write a masters thesis. EdM students can enroll in either our face-to-face or online program. MA and MS students take classes and write a thesis and must enroll in our face-to-face program.
Academic Statement of Purpose- Please use the Academic Statement of Purpose to describe (within 750 words): (1) the substantive scholarly questions you are interested in exploring in graduate study, (2) your academic background, intellectual interests, and any training, research, or other experiences that have prepared you for graduate study, (3) how our program would help you achieve your intellectual goals, (4) any specific faculty members, if applicable, whose research interests align with your own interests, and (5) your professional goals.
Personal Statement- The Personal Statement is required for applicants to the Education Policy, Organization and Leadership programs.
In this statement, within 250 words, you will provide evidence of how your professional experiences and prior academic work have focused your thinking toward the planned program of study.
Resume/Curriculum Vitae- This is required of all applicants. For students applying to the Special Education doctoral program, a minimum of two years paid full-time professional experience related to special education or the field of disability is preferred for consideration for the program.
Letters of Reference- Every applicant is required to submit 3 letters of reference from persons who have direct knowledge of their academic and/or professional performance and potential for graduate study.
Transcripts- At the time of application you are only required to upload unofficial copies of your transcripts into the application. The unofficial copy can be a screenshot or scanned copy but should not be a photo of the transcript. Applicants must have earned at least a degree from an accredited college in the United States or a comparable degree from a recognized institution of higher learning abroad. If admitted, you will be required to submit official transcripts to the Graduate College.
3.0 Minimum GPA- A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (A=4.0), or comparable GPA for an international applicant, for last two years of undergraduate study is a minimum requirement for admission.