PhD in Higher Education in Boston United States | University of Massachusetts Amherst

Pursuing a PhD in higher education at UMass Amherst equips graduates for diverse roles including administration, policy-making, research, and academia. Central to our program is the integration of scholarly practice, enabling graduates to enhance student outcomes through data-driven policies and interventions alongside thorough empirical research. This intensive doctoral program requires 42 credits of coursework plus 10 dissertation credits. Throughout your studies, you'll gain expertise in research methodologies and critical topics within your chosen specialization (such as student development, social justice, assessment methods, or education policy). You'll cultivate advanced methodological, theoretical, and analytical capabilities to successfully complete comprehensive exams and your dissertation. Our PhD candidates represent varied professional backgrounds, with options for full-time study (three courses per semester) or part-time enrollment while maintaining full-time employment.