Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction - Literacy Education

The Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction in the Department of Teaching & Learning provides a course of study for professional educators who desire to extend and advance knowledge in the theory and practice of education as university researchers. Areas of research emphasis include instructional technology, teacher education, mathematics education, literacy, cultural and international studies, science education, and teaching English as a second language (TESL). The completion of this degree will particularly enable individuals to become skilled researchers as members of university faculties.

The Literacy Education concentrations explores relationships among language, literacy, culture and social justice.

Students develop expertise in critical analysis and methodological approaches for conducting research on literacy and language teaching and learning (e.g., curriculum design, assessment, policy, literacy equity, writing, multi-modalities).

The concentrations focus on a variety literacy and language approaches including but not limited to critical literacy, digital and multimedia literacy, global and glocal literacy, biliteracy, and new literacies in addition to bi-, multi-, and trans-lingualism.

Students have opportunities for clinical and field-based work in conjunction with our teacher education program, the Gayle A. Zeiter Literacy Development Center, the Southern Nevada Writing Project, the UNLV Teaching in Chile Conference, and other community organizations.

Through an emphasis on the integration of theory, research and practice, students will demonstrate a well-grounded understanding of the literacy content, pedagogy, technology, and issues associated with teaching and learning in literacy education.

For post-bachelor's applicants, a regionally accredited bachelor degree from a program in an area closely related to the chosen field of specialization is required.
For post-master's applicants, prior to the admission start date, a master degree from a regionally accredited program in an area closely related to the chosen field of specialization is required.

Grade Point Average - You must have a minimum overall grade point average of 2.75 (4.00=A) for the bachelor's degree or a minimum 3.00 (4.00=A) for the last two years (60 semester hours). Applicants with international academic work can use Scholaro to estimate their U.S. GPA calculation. While Scholaro can provide an approximate representation of your converted U.S. GPA, it does not replace the comprehensive evaluation of academic coursework conducted by the UNLV Office of Admissions. Our GPA calculation and credential equivalency review are still essential in the admission process. UNLV's evaluation may differ from the results generated by this tool.

Transcripts - One transcript from every post-secondary institution the applicant has attended (regardless of whether a degree or credential was earned), showing all coursework, extension and correspondence work, any degrees earned, and the dates that those degrees were awarded. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted as part of the application process. However, if an applicant is admitted, official transcripts will be required by the date specified on the Certificate of Admission. Transfer credits posted on another institution's transcript will not be accepted in lieu of the transcript itself. Only transcripts sent directly from the institution are considered official. Failure to disclose all coursework and/or degrees awarded will result in rescission of admission. IELTS - 6.5, TOEFL - 80, (Paper-based) Minimum score - 74 (Computer-based) Minimum score - 213, Pearson Test of English (PTE) - Minimum score - 65