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The Ph.D. in Reading Education program aims to cultivate academic researchers capable of designing original studies and effectively sharing their findings as scholars, professors, or policy advisors. This intensive, research-focused program is exclusively available in Charlottesville and combines academic instruction, hands-on research training, and practical applications to equip graduates for:
Generating innovative research that advances reading education knowledge and teacher preparation methodologies
Developing specialized expertise in literacy instruction and research-backed educational approaches
The curriculum mandates 72 total credits, with 54 dedicated to coursework covering reading specialization classes, research methods, and a maximum of 3 research apprenticeship credits per semester (excluding dissertation and internship credits).
A minimum of 36 credits must be earned post-admission through combined coursework and apprenticeships. Dissertation work can account for up to 12 credits toward the degree total.
Applicants holding master's degrees may transfer up to 24 credits with approval from both the reading program faculty and Associate Dean, provided these align with doctoral requirements.
Full-time students typically finish in 4 years (or 3 years for those entering with a relevant master's degree in reading education).