About This Degree
The School of Teacher Education and Leadership administers a program leading to a doctoral degree in education with a required specialization in curriculum and instruction.
The degree is designed for educators who wish to prepare to become curriculum specialists, coordinators, or supervisors in public or private school systems or state departments of public instruction, and for those preparing to work as faculty members at the college or university level, generally in a teacher preparation area.
The Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services, which houses the School of Teacher Education and Leadership, is the top ranked Graduate School of Education in Utah and the second highest ranked in the Intermountain West. The college ranked 12th in the nation in total research dollars received, with over $40M, according to "America's Best Graduate Schools" U.S. News & World Report of 2023.
The PhD prepares candidates for academic careers in institutions that demand research expertise and an understanding of the theoretical foundations of a specific field. The PhD in Education degree is currently the only distance-delivered doctoral degree in the state.
Students must choose an area in which to focus their research. These areas are:
- Instructional Leadership
- Mathematics Education and Leadership
- Literacy Education and Leadership
- Cultural Studies
- Science Education
Specialization:
Students may choose an emphasis in one of the following areas.
Curriculum and Instruction:
This specialization will prepare you to become a curriculum specialist, coordinator, or supervisor, or to work at the college or university level.
ADVISING
At a Glance
College: Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services
Department: School of Teacher Education and Leadership
USU Locations:
- Logan campus
- Statewide campuses
Program Requirements
Career And Outcomes
Career Opportunities
The EdD program prepares candidates to serve as curriculum and instruction leaders in public or private educational institutions and to teach in education and education-related programs in colleges and universities.
Graduates with the PhD generally pursue careers in academia.
Job Outlook
USU Locations

LOGAN CAMPUS
*This degree is available at various USU locations.
Admission
Admission Requirements
Applicants must have a master's degree and a minimum of two years of teaching experience. Generally, applicants have master's degrees in education-related fields, but the department may accept those with degrees in other fields in certain circumstances if applicants have teaching experience.
Application Requirements:
- Complete the online application
- Pay the $55 application fee
- GPA of 3.0 or higher during most recent 60 semester hours
- Provide curriculum vitae or resume
- Provide personal essay describing experiences, goals, and research interests
- Provide transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate credits
- Provide three contacts for letters of recommendation
International students have additional admissions requirements.
Deadlines
The department has the following deadlines:
- February 1 for Fall admittance
Program Requirements
Comprehensive Exam:
Students pursuing the PhD must pass the comprehensive exam after their coursework is completed. They have the choice between a 72-hour take-home exam or an eight-hour exam on campus. Students will be tested on the subjects from their curriculum and instruction, research methods, and their specific concentration courses.
Take The Next Step
How to Apply
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Request Information
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Cost and Funding
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