UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · UNITED STATES
PhD in Education
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 4 YearsProgram Duration
- 63 UnitsTotal Units
- Fully FundedScholarship Range
- August 15, 2026Next Start Date
The PhD in Education program at the University of Southern California's Rossier School of Education is designed for aspiring research scholars who aim to advance educational excellence through high-quality, consequential research. This immersive and rigorous program equips students with the knowledge and skills to investigate complex educational challenges across various settings, including classrooms, institutions, and policy systems. Through close mentorship from faculty, hands-on research and teaching assistantships, and extensive professional development opportunities, students cultivate expertise to produce impactful scholarship. The program fosters a collaborative environment where students can develop their research capabilities and contribute to the field of education.
Curriculum
The PhD curriculum requires 63 units of study. Students pursue original scholarship that addresses critical issues in education and informs policy, practice, and theory. While specific course details are extensive, the program emphasizes research methodologies and practical application within urban education contexts.
- Year 1
- Research, Policy, and Practice in Urban EducationEDUC 681
- Introduction to Quantitative MethodsEDUC 682
Careers
The PhD in Education program serves as a launchpad for a lifelong career of inquiry, innovation, and leadership in education. Graduates are prepared to conduct high-impact, meaningful scholarship and address critical issues in education, influencing policy, practice, and theory.
- Educational Researcher
- University Professor
- Policy Analyst
- Academic Leader
- Curriculum Developer
- Instructional Leader
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the PhD in Education program?
- The PhD in Education program is designed to be completed in 4 years and requires 63 units of study.
- Are there tuition fees for PhD in Education students?
- PhD students in this program are typically fully funded, which usually covers tuition, a living stipend, and other educational expenses.
- What are the career prospects after completing the PhD in Education?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Educational Researcher, University Professor, Policy Analyst, Academic Leader, Curriculum Developer, and Instructional Leader.
- When can I apply for the PhD in Education program?
- The application for the PhD in Education program is currently closed. Prospective students should request more information to be notified when the application reopens for the next admission cycle, with the next start date being August 15, 2026.
- What funding is available for PhD in Education students?
- The program is fully funded, which typically includes tuition coverage and a stipend for living expenses. Additional research or teaching assistantship opportunities may also be available.
Entry requirements
Previous DegreeA strong academic background is expected for admission to the PhD program. While specific GPA requirements are not listed, applicants should demonstrate significant academic achievement.
The application for this program is currently closed. Prospective students can request more information to be notified when the application opens for the next term.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition information is not specified for international students on the provided pages. PhD students are generally fully funded.
Tuition (home)Tuition information is not specified for domestic students on the provided pages. PhD students are generally fully funded.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program or supporting pages.
PhD students in this program are typically fully funded, which usually covers tuition, a living stipend, and other educational expenses.
How to apply
1. Request InformationVisit the program page and fill out the 'Request More Information' form to be notified when applications open.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all required documents and information for the application once it becomes available.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application by the specified deadline.
Scholarships
PhD FundingFull Funding
Heather Anne Barnes Endowed ScholarshipVariable
Gold Family Graduate Fellowship$5,000
USC Del Amo Foundation Research AwardUp to $5,000
Hovel Summer Travel AwardUp to $5,000
Accreditation
The program is part of the University of Southern California's Rossier School of Education.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the PhD in Education program?
+
The PhD in Education program is designed to be completed in 4 years and requires 63 units of study.
Are there tuition fees for PhD in Education students?
+
PhD students in this program are typically fully funded, which usually covers tuition, a living stipend, and other educational expenses.
What are the career prospects after completing the PhD in Education?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Educational Researcher, University Professor, Policy Analyst, Academic Leader, Curriculum Developer, and Instructional Leader.
When can I apply for the PhD in Education program?
+
The application for the PhD in Education program is currently closed. Prospective students should request more information to be notified when the application reopens for the next admission cycle, with the next start date being August 15, 2026.
What funding is available for PhD in Education students?
+
The program is fully funded, which typically includes tuition coverage and a stipend for living expenses. Additional research or teaching assistantship opportunities may also be available.