Doctor of Philosophy in Social Studies Education
Program Code: PH6224
The Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education is built on a common foundation of learning theory, the social and cultural contexts of school education, curriculum and instruction theory, the moral and ethical dimensions of leadership, and quantitative and qualitative research methods. It is expected that all students completing a doctoral degree in Social Studies Education will demonstrate knowledge and skills in a common core of competencies plus an area of specialization, and successfully complete a dissertation.
For each individual scholar, coursework serves as the basis for investigating a significant educational issue that will advance the field of Social Studies Education and prepare him or her for future research. Every student in the Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education has the opportunity to construct a highly individualized program based on his or her career goals. Specializations are available based on the expertise of doctoral faculty. This program can be completed on a full- or part-time basis.
For a full-time student, program degree completion in four years is typical, with at least two years in residence at the Athens campus of Ohio University.
Contact
Michael Kopish
Program Coordinator
Courtney Koestler
Doctoral Coordinator
Program Curriculum
For more information about admissions and the courses required for this program, please visit the Graduate Catalog.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a strong foundation in the social studies subject matter.
- Gain an understanding of how PK-16 students learn and engage with social studies.
- Become familiar with research methodologies appropriate to the study of social studies education.
- Learn to use equitable and inclusive teaching and assessment practices that are responsive to diverse learners and incorporate appropriate use of technology.
- Become knowledgeable about the body of literature central to social studies education, professional preparation standards for social studies teachers, and K-12 social studies learning standards.
- Develop skills in teaching social studies methods courses for K-12 teachers or facilitating professional development for K-12 teachers.
- Develop an awareness of local and global issues relate to social studies education.
- Gain experience and knowledge in analyzing, evaluating, synthesizing research theories in social studies education, and applying them and supporting others in applying them in K-16 contexts.
- Conduct independent research in social studies education that relies on quantitative and/or qualitative research design and methodology suitable for professional publication and presentations.
- Develop awareness of current trends and issues in education broadly, and social studies education specifically, that leads to advocacy for learners and teachers.
- Be prepared to accept a university faculty position or other leadership role in the field of Social Studies Education.
Funding Information
- Departmental funding opportunities
- Funding opportunities across the college
- Graduate College funding opportunities