Educational Policy and Planning

Doctoral Program

Department of Educational Leadership and Policy

The Educational Policy and Planning (EPP) program prepares the next generation of scholars, researchers, and analysts who will significantly and positively change public education. The EPP doctoral program (Ph.D.) prepares future faculty members, policy analysts, and researchers to be anti-racist education policy scholars and analysts, with a critical focus on issues of equity.

Students will gain a theoretical foundation in educational policy development, implementation, and analysis, as well as the legal, sociocultural, and sociopolitical foundations of educational policy. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared for careers in research and teaching at universities, research- and community-based organizations, and government agencies.

Our graduates will: 

  • Understand the complexity of the educational system, including the historical, cultural, economic, political, and social conditions that may affect student learning. 
  • Research the effectiveness of policy proposals and better understand the implementation of existing policies, particularly as they affect outcomes for traditionally marginalized students. 
  • Advocate for the implementation of different approaches to enhance student learning for all children from marginalized groups. 
  • Critically consume, synthesize, and produce cutting-edge knowledge in the field of educational policy. 
  • Approach policy research from a multidisciplinary perspective. 
  • Learn the most sophisticated policy research techniques and methodologies. 

Program Features

Key Competencies You Will Gain

Program Overview

Application Requirements

Faculty

At a Glance

Program Starts: Fall

Deadline to Apply: December 1

Credit Hours Required: 57

Schedule: Full time or part time permitted per discussion with program head

Program Location: On Campus

GRE Required? No

Photo of Sarah Woulfin

Ph.D. Program Co-coordinator
Sarah Woulfin

Ph.D. and M.Ed. Program Co-coordinator
Sofia Malik

How to Apply

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