Academic Program

Literacy, PK-16 Instruction

Doctoral Degree

The purpose and mission of the doctoral specialization in PreK-16 Literacy Learning and Instruction is to prepare literacy professionals who will hold research and literacy education positions in universities across the country as well as for roles in local, regional, state, or national educational agencies and corporations. Through strong theory and research-based training, the program of study emphasizes the importance of social opportunity and educational access. It addresses the cognitive, linguistic, social, cultural, political, and economic factors that impact literacy teaching and learning at all levels of development. The program prepares candidates to provide important leadership locally as they contribute to a national research community. To that end, doctoral students engage in a variety of guided experiences that blend theory, research, and instruction.

Phase I of the doctoral program is completed through full time study. Phases II and III may be completed through part time study, if need be. Doctoral candidates may not hold full-time employment during the year of full-time study.

Application Information

Application Procedures

For admission information and application procedures, please see the Application Process for Doctoral Degree Programs in Teacher Education (pdf).

Financial Aid

There are some partial graduate tuition scholarships (University Graduate Scholarships) available every year. These are available on the basis of previous academic record. It is important to apply each academic year to obtain this scholarship. Summer quarter requires a separate application. Applications are available from the School of Education office (615 Teachers College at UC Clifton Campus) or by calling the office at 513-556-3600.

Curriculum

Overview of the Doctoral Program of Study:
  • Professional Seminars in Teacher Education (3 course sequence) (9 cr.)
  • Mentored Research in Literacy (3 course sequence) (9 cr.)
  • Research Seminars in Literacy (3 course sequence) (9 cr.)
  • Advanced Seminars in Literacy (or equivalents) (9 cr.)
  • Research Courses (9 cr.)
  • Research Methods (3 course sequence) (9 cr.)
  • Electives (18 cr.)
  • Dissertation Guidance (45 cr.)
  • Master's degree Credit (and/or electives) (18 cr.)
  • Total: 135 credit hours

Courses Recommended by the Literacy Faculty:

EDST Research Methods Courses: The first required course in research for doctoral candidates is Modes of Inquiry (18EDST-800). This course covers the breadth of research methods used in education and is a prerequisite for the research sequences. After taking Modes of Inquiry, doctoral students may enroll in one of three sequences in qualitative research, quantitative research, or action research.

Please view the Phases of Literacy Doctoral Program PreK - 16 Literacy Instruction Specialization (pdf).