Programs

All the poems of Stevie Smith

This program focuses on the collected works of Stevie Smith, a notable 20th-century poet. The edition includes all her poems, compiled and introduced by Will May. It offers a comprehensive collection of her poetic output. The book is a significant resource for understanding Stevie Smith's literary contributions, featuring a detailed introduction that likely provides critical context and biographical information. The collection itself spans a wide range of her poems, offering insights into her unique style, themes, and evolution as a writer.

An Introduction to Module Theory

This textbook provides a modern and accessible exploration of module theory, specifically designed for graduate students in algebra or those who require algebraic tools for their research. Authored by specialists in the field, it aims to be a comprehensive resource for understanding this complex area of mathematics. The book features a detailed presentation of concepts, supported by a substantial collection of worked-out examples, illustrative figures, and practice exercises. It is intended to serve as a primary text for graduate-level courses and a valuable reference for students and researchers seeking to deepen their knowledge of module theory.

Applied Linguistics PhD

The Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics at Penn State is designed to train scholars who will conduct systematic research into individual and societal multilingualism. This program aims to build and test theories regarding how linguistic systems develop, are acquired, used, and taught in a global context. You will engage with foundational theories and research in linguistics, applied linguistics, second language acquisition, psycholinguistics, and sociolinguistics. The curriculum encourages the use of diverse research methodologies, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches, such as sociocultural, historical, linguistic, stylistic, and discourse analysis. The ultimate goal of research within this program is to deeply understand the multifaceted nature of language as a tool for social existence, communication, and cognition. Graduates are prepared to contribute to scholarly understanding and practice in the field of applied linguistics.

Art Education, Ph.D.

The Ph.D. in Art Education at Penn State prepares students to become leaders and innovative researchers in the field. This program is designed for individuals who want to advance their expertise through original research that contributes to art education theory and practice. Students benefit from a collegial and close-knit community within the School of Visual Arts, while also having access to the extensive resources of a large research university. The curriculum provides a strong theoretical and methodological foundation for dissertation research, drawing from art education and related disciplines like philosophy, sociology, and curriculum studies.

Bachelor of Science in Finance

The Bachelor of Science in Finance program at Penn State World Campus is designed for students who want to gain a comprehensive understanding of financial principles and practices. This online degree program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in various financial fields, including corporate finance, investments, and financial analysis. The curriculum covers essential topics such as financial markets, financial planning, risk management, and financial modeling, preparing you to make informed financial decisions.

Biobehavioral Health PhD Program

This is an innovative, dynamic, and interdisciplinary PhD program focused on understanding the complex interplay between biological, psychological, social, environmental, and cultural factors that influence health and disease across the lifespan. The program's core philosophy emphasizes an integrative approach to health research and healthcare, distinguishing it from programs with separate tracks and fostering a comprehensive understanding of health. Students gain training in biological processes (such as behavioral neuroscience and genetics), psychological and behavioral factors (including cognition, emotion, and specific health behaviors), and public health policy (encompassing global health, health promotion, and environmental influences on health disparities. The program strongly values diversity as a critical component in understanding and addressing health disparities and advancing health equity.

Biomedical Sciences PhD

This program focuses on doctoral research within Biomedical Sciences, with a specific dissertation example exploring the molecular mechanisms of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), particularly the role of misfolded SOD1 protein. Research involves investigating protein interactions, cellular toxicity, and utilizing transcriptomic data to understand disease pathways. The work aims to identify binding partners and pathways associated with SOD1 trimers, comparing them to wild-type SOD1 dimers. Computational and biochemical methods are employed for detailed characterization of identified proteins. The research also considers the application of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as disease models and the broader implications of oligomers in ALS research, suggesting potential pathways in the disease's etiology affecting both nerves and muscles.

Biorenewable Systems Graduate Program

The Biorenewable Systems (BRS) graduate program offers Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees focused on integrating science and technology with business principles. This program prepares students to lead advancements in the growing bio-based economy, covering areas like marketing, management, entrepreneurship, and leadership for bio-based products and their supply chains. Leveraging Penn State's expertise, you will conduct novel research on ecological, environmental, and bio-based systems. Graduates are equipped to drive development in key industry sectors including wood products, bio-based fuels, energy, chemicals, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The core of the graduate experience involves completing an independent research thesis or dissertation. Students engage in advanced coursework covering research theory, bioproducts development, biorenewable system analysis, and ethics, alongside their research. Research topics are diverse and can include developing new bio-based products for various sectors, managing soil and water systems, analyzing the life cycle impacts of biorenewables, optimizing agricultural and forest equipment, creating sustainable business models, improving worker safety, and exploring new energy production methods from biomass.

Communication Arts and Sciences

The Communication Arts and Sciences graduate program at Penn State trains students in communication science and rhetorical studies. Research focuses on how communication impacts attitudes, behavior, relationships, public life, democratic processes, and social justice. The program is highly regarded, ranking among the top five nationally for rhetorical studies and interpersonal/small group communication. The department is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, valuing a wide array of identities and perspectives to enrich knowledge creation about communication in various contexts.

Comparative Literature

The Comparative Literature major at Penn State offers a unique, interdisciplinary, and global approach to studying literature. This program transcends geographical, temporal, national, linguistic, and cultural boundaries, drawing on a diverse range of texts from around the world. Students will explore recognized literary classics alongside lesser-known works, and engage with various media, from traditional texts to graphic novels and video games. The curriculum fosters critical analysis skills for literary and cultural study, encourages exploration of literature's relationship with ethics, and examines themes such as transnational identities, human rights, globalization, and violence. A senior seminar provides advanced study in literary theory and opportunities for independent projects.

Doctor of Education

The Penn State World Campus Doctor of Education (EdD) program is designed for experienced professionals seeking to advance their careers in educational leadership. This fully online program offers a flexible and convenient way to earn a doctorate while maintaining your current professional and personal commitments. You will develop advanced knowledge and skills in educational theory, research, and practice, preparing you to lead with impact in diverse educational settings.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Soil Science

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in Soil Science at Penn State is designed to train students for careers in academic teaching and scholarly research. The program emphasizes original, valid, and significant research, requiring candidates to demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research. Successful completion of the Ph.D. involves meeting Graduate School residence requirements, completing approved coursework, conducting research, preparing a thesis, and passing all prescribed examinations.

Doctor of Philosophy in American Studies

This program focuses on the study of American culture, history, and society through an interdisciplinary lens. Students delve into the complexities of American identity, examining how various social, political, and cultural forces have shaped the nation. The curriculum encourages critical analysis of diverse historical periods and contemporary issues, with a particular emphasis on understanding the evolution of American thought and its global impact. Research in this field often explores themes such as democracy, mass communication, and the influence of public relations on societal norms and political discourse.

Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science and Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in Computer Science and Engineering offers advanced study and research opportunities in various areas of computing. This program is designed for students who wish to pursue in-depth research and contribute to the field. The focus of the program is on developing novel solutions to complex problems, with research areas including power management, information retrieval, mobile agents, mobile computing, and security. The program aims to equip students with the skills necessary to conduct independent research and make significant contributions to computer science and engineering.

Doctor of Philosophy in Meteorology and Atmospheric Science

This Ph.D. program focuses on Meteorology and Atmospheric Science, offering advanced research opportunities. The program delves into complex atmospheric phenomena, including electrical discharges, atmospheric chemistry, and their global significance. Students engage in cutting-edge research using specialized instruments to measure and analyze atmospheric processes. The research aims to improve understanding of the atmosphere's cleaning agents, hydroxyl (OH) and hydroperoxyl (HOx) radicals, which are driven by daytime atmospheric chemistry. The program investigates the prevalence and production of these radicals from electrical discharges, such as corona discharges and lightning. Students will gain experience in designing, calibrating, and deploying novel instruments for atmospheric measurements. The program also addresses the underrepresentation of lightning impacts in global models and the limitations of current satellite detection methods. Graduates will be equipped with advanced analytical and research skills to contribute to the field of atmospheric science and climate research.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nuclear Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nuclear Engineering at Penn State focuses on advanced research in nuclear materials and computational science. This program delves into the complex behavior of materials used in nuclear reactors, particularly the interaction of zirconium cladding with hydrogen. Students will investigate the physics and mechanisms governing the formation of hydride microstructures and their impact on material integrity and embrittlement. The research aims to develop quantitative metrics to better assess cladding performance and safety. This Ph.D. dissertation work explores the relationship between precipitation conditions, hydride morphology, and the resulting embrittlement in zirconium cladding. A quantitative phase field model is developed to predict hydride morphology and identify the mechanisms behind circumferential and radial hydride precipitation. The research also introduces a new metric, the Radial Hydride Continuous Path (RHCP), to quantify hydride microstructure and its correlation with crack propagation, offering a more accurate assessment of cladding integrity. The program emphasizes computational materials science, phase field modeling, and multi-physics simulations. Students will gain expertise in analyzing microstructure evolution, understanding the effects of stress on material properties, and developing new tools for materials characterization. The ultimate goal is to improve the safety and reliability of nuclear fuel cladding through advanced research and development.

Doctor of Philosophy in Physics

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Physics program at Penn State offers advanced research opportunities in various fields, including the study of dark matter. This program focuses on preparing students for careers in research and academia. The Ph.D. dissertation in Physics typically involves in-depth, original research contributing new knowledge to the field. Research areas often include experimental and theoretical physics, with a strong emphasis on areas like particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology. Students engage with cutting-edge research facilities and collaborate with faculty on significant scientific projects. The program aims to provide students with the skills necessary to conduct independent research, analyze complex data, and communicate scientific findings effectively, preparing them for leadership roles in scientific endeavors.

Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Pathology

Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Pathology

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in Plant Pathology at Penn State provides advanced education and research experience for students aiming for careers in academia, industry, or government. The program focuses on the study of plant diseases and the pathogens that cause them, equipping graduates with in-depth knowledge and practical research skills. This doctoral degree typically requires a minimum of three years of dedicated study and research beyond a master's degree. Progression towards the Ph.D. involves a rigorous academic record, strong performance in graduate coursework, and successfully passing a candidacy examination. Students are also expected to gain teaching experience by assisting in the instruction of a departmental course.

Doctorate in Education, Development, and Community Engagement - Agricultural Education

Doctorate in Education, Development, and Community Engagement - Leadership and Community Development

Doctorate in Education, Development, and Community Engagement - Program Development and Evaluation