Ph.D. in Educational Studies Programs
Overview
Lesley offers three Ph.D. in Educational Studies specializations for educators seeking to attain leadership credentials or deepen their expertise. We define Educational Studies as an interdisciplinary area of inquiry that examines the individual and social processes of learning and teaching in institutional and social contexts. The study of cognition, learning, and human development is integrated with the study of institutions, organizations, and cultures. The Adult Learning and Educational Leadership specializations include a summer residency.
The Ph.D. in Educational Studies: Adult Learning is a low-residency program divided into three phases, incorporating foundational learning in research methodology and participation in an interdisciplinary seminar, core coursework and a written qualifying examination, and a doctoral dissertation that represents an original contribution to the field of educational studies and adult learning. The program addresses such key issues as how and in what environments adults learn, how culture affects learning, and the relationship between learning and development.
The Ph.D. in Educational Studies: Educational Leadership specialization prepares current and prospective school leaders and administrators to achieve school-wide and district-wide improvements in teaching, learning, and leadership. Students engage in critical inquiry into their own practice and abilities, apply foundational knowledge in their work and within their schools, use and conduct research to contribute new knowledge to the field, and promote and sustain innovation through strategic initiatives. The program culminates in the writing of a dissertation.
The Ph.D. in Educational Studies: Individually Designed specialization encourages interdisciplinary study. Students work closely with senior advisors from throughout the Lesley academic community to design an individual doctoral study plan suited to their educational goals. Qualitative and quantitative research and participation in a doctoral study seminar provide the foundation for translating new knowledge into the writing of a dissertation that represents an intellectual contribution to their field of interest.
Top Ranked
Lesley University is ranked as a top regional institution by U.S. News & World Report (2011).
Accreditation
Lesley University is accredited by NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.)
Spotlight
Craig Martin
M.Ed. Educational Leadership
Craig builds on his students' interests to make the classroom experience more enriching.
