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The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Language and Literacy Studies explores literacy development and English Language Arts, covering essential skills like reading, writing, and associated disciplines. The curriculum highlights connections between language, literacy, cultural influences, personal identity, and equity in society.
A key objective of the Ph.D. program is to develop educators, mentors, and scholars capable of leveraging literacy as a catalyst for societal transformation. Each student's degree path is customized to deepen understanding of curriculum and instruction, starting with broad perspectives before narrowing focus according to individual experience and aspirations. The curriculum encompasses language/literacy studies, research methodologies, core subjects, and specialized electives offered through the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.
Participants engage in practical training through our teacher preparation initiatives and numerous research projects, including faculty partnerships. To maximize the program's benefits, students are strongly advised to complete one year of full-time residency. Graduates will qualify for positions as university faculty, specialized instructors in K-12 settings, or district-level literacy leadership roles.
Students must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or a comparable degree from a foreign academic institution. A grade point average of at least 3.00 in upper-division (junior- and senior-level) coursework and in any graduate work already completed.
The minimum scores considered acceptable for admission by the Graduate School are:
TOEFL: 79 on the Internet-based test (iBT)
IELTS: An overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination
Application deadline: December 01 for fall