UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · UNITED STATES
Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D.
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€76k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 4 yearsFull-time duration
- FallEntry term
- On CampusModality
- Practice-oriented doctoral programProgram focus
- Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC)Key component
The Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program at the University of Pennsylvania is a practice-oriented doctoral degree designed for educators and instructional leaders. It focuses on applying research theory to real-world educational challenges, enabling graduates to improve educational practices. The program emphasizes critical evaluation of research, specialization in a chosen area, and developing strategies for enhancing teaching, curriculum development, and instructional leadership. Field-based research and collaborative projects with practitioners are central to this program. The Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC) is a key component, supporting students in developing, conducting, and presenting original research. This course fosters a collaborative environment where students contribute to the agenda based on collective needs, under faculty supervision. Mentorship is also a significant aspect, with experienced students guiding newer ones. Graduates are prepared for roles such as curriculum specialists, instructional leaders, and teacher educators in K-12 schools, universities, and educational agencies. The program encourages a reflective approach to research, aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice for tangible improvements in education.
Curriculum
Full-time Ed.D. students complete three course units in the Fall and three in the Spring during each of their first two years, participating in practicum activities and academic experiences. Part-time students must complete a residency requirement involving at least four courses over two consecutive semesters. Students will select a focal area such as teaching and learning, research and practice in teacher education, mathematics or science education, and the study of urban education and urban contexts. Coursework is structured around specialization courses, research methods, electives/professional experiences, and core courses. An individualized program of study is developed in consultation with an advisor.
- Year 1
- Specialization Courses
- Research Methods Courses
- Electives/Professional Experiences
- Core Courses
- Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC)
- Year 2
- Specialization Courses
- Research Methods Courses
- Electives/Professional Experiences
- Core Courses
- Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC)
- Years 3-4
- Dissertation Work
- Continued Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC)
Careers
Graduates of the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program are prepared for impactful leadership roles in various educational settings. The program equips them with the research and practical skills needed to drive change and improve educational outcomes.
- Curriculum Specialist
- Instructional Leader
- Teacher Educator
- Researcher in Universities and Colleges
- Curriculum Developer and Evaluator in Educational Agencies
- Curriculum Specialist in School Districts and State Departments of Education
- Instructional Leader in K-12 Schools
- Classroom Teacher in K-12 Schools
Frequently asked questions
- What are the typical career outcomes for graduates of the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Leader, Teacher Educator, and Researcher in universities, colleges, and educational agencies. The program also prepares individuals for leadership positions in K-12 schools and curriculum development roles in school districts.
- How long does the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program typically take to complete?
- The full-time duration for the program is typically 4 years. This includes coursework, practicum activities, and dissertation work.
- What is the estimated tuition and fees for this program?
- Tuition and fees are calculated per course unit. While specific rates for this Ed.D. program are not detailed, the International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA) program's estimated total tuition and fees for 2026-2027 are $88,342 ($44,171 per semester), which includes tuition, a general fee, and a clinical fee. These rates are subject to change.
- How do I apply to the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program?
- You should follow the application process outlined by Penn GSE and apply directly to the program of interest. It's important to review program details, check specific application requirements and deadlines, and prepare your application materials, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
- What are the general entry requirements for the Ed.D. program?
- Applicants are expected to have a strong prior academic record, as indicated by the description of graduate degrees opening intellectual and professional opportunities. While specific GPA or degree types are not detailed, the program seeks passionate, innovative leaders in education.
Entry requirements
Previous DegreeA graduate degree from Penn GSE is described as opening up intellectual and professional opportunities, implying a strong prior academic record is expected for admission to the Ed.D. program. Specific GPA or prior degree types are not detailed on the program page, but applicants are expected to be passionate, innovative leaders.
Applicants apply directly to the specific program of interest. For detailed admissions requirements and deadlines, applicants are directed to the 'Application Requirements and Deadlines' link.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition is calculated per course unit (c.u.). The estimated total tuition and fees for the International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA) program for the 2026-2027 academic year are $88,342 ($44,171 per semester). These rates are estimates and subject to change. The breakdown includes tuition, a general fee, and a clinical fee.
Tuition (home)Tuition is calculated per course unit (c.u.). The estimated total tuition and fees for the International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA) program for the 2026-2027 academic year are $88,342 ($44,171 per semester). These rates are estimates and subject to change. The breakdown includes tuition, a general fee, and a clinical fee.
LivingNot specified.
Tuition and fee charges are subject to approval and may change without notice. The 'General Fee' supports non-instructional student services like wellness, counseling, career services, etc. The 'Clinical Fee' supports Penn Wellness services including Campus Health and Counseling and Psychological Services. Academic credit is measured in course units (c.u.).
How to apply
1. Review Program DetailsFamiliarize yourself with the program's focus on research application, curriculum, and outcomes.
2. Check Application Requirements and DeadlinesVisit the 'Application Requirements and Deadlines' section linked from the program page for specific details relevant to the Ed.D. program. Note the application deadline for the desired intake term (e.g., Fall).
3. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, which typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and potentially GRE scores (check program-specific requirements). The program emphasizes leadership potential and a passion for education.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the application through the designated online portal (e.g., Common Application or Coalition Application for undergraduate, but graduate programs usually have their own specific application system).
5. Contact Program Coordinator for QuestionsFor specific questions about coursework or faculty research, contact Kate Moran, Program Coordinator, at [moranka@upenn.edu](mailto:moranka@upenn.edu).
6. Contact Admissions for General InquiriesFor broader questions about admissions, financial aid, or the application process, contact the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid at Penn GSE via phone [(215) 898-6415](tel:(215) 898-6415) or email [admissions@gse.upenn.edu](mailto:admissions@gse.upenn.edu).
Scholarships
Penn GSE Financial AidNot specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the typical career outcomes for graduates of the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Leader, Teacher Educator, and Researcher in universities, colleges, and educational agencies. The program also prepares individuals for leadership positions in K-12 schools and curriculum development roles in school districts.
How long does the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program typically take to complete?
+
The full-time duration for the program is typically 4 years. This includes coursework, practicum activities, and dissertation work.
What is the estimated tuition and fees for this program?
+
Tuition and fees are calculated per course unit. While specific rates for this Ed.D. program are not detailed, the International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA) program's estimated total tuition and fees for 2026-2027 are $88,342 ($44,171 per semester), which includes tuition, a general fee, and a clinical fee. These rates are subject to change.
How do I apply to the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program?
+
You should follow the application process outlined by Penn GSE and apply directly to the program of interest. It's important to review program details, check specific application requirements and deadlines, and prepare your application materials, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
What are the general entry requirements for the Ed.D. program?
+
Applicants are expected to have a strong prior academic record, as indicated by the description of graduate degrees opening intellectual and professional opportunities. While specific GPA or degree types are not detailed, the program seeks passionate, innovative leaders in education.