PhD in Educational Theory and Practice (Social Studies Education)

With this emphasis in social studies education, you will study theoretical and disciplinary areas, problems, and practices related to the field as part of your degree in educational theory and practice. Our primary focus with this emphasis is the continuing development of theory and research on teaching and learning of the social studies.

Just as there are a variety of disciplines within, and approaches to, social studies education, there are many possibilities available for doctoral study. Our faculty members borrow from various research methodologies (narrative inquiry, self-study, and discourse analysis) and a variety of theoretical perspectives (feminism, pragmatism, critical theory, psychoanalytic theory) to focus research in social studies education.

Our graduates go on to research and clinical faculty positions in colleges and universities, teacher leadership positions, and social studies positions in schools.

Curriculum

The program of study includes 43 hours of coursework, preliminary and comprehensive examinations, a dissertation prospectus, and a dissertation. Required coursework includes theory and research on teaching or research on teacher education, and seminars. You will also take at least four research methods courses, determined in consultation with your advisory committee. You are encouraged to take as many research methods courses as needed to accomplish your research.

Of your coursework, 22 credit hours will help prepare you to think deeply about and conduct research on your specific interests within the field. This includes a teaching internship, coursework related to your area of emphasis, and 12 credits of electives. Electives may be from within or outside the College, and might include courses in women's studies, language and literacy, student learning and development, history, economics, political science, geography, anthropology, and philosophy.

Additional information and disclosures regarding state licensure for professional practice in this field can be found at the UGA Licensure Disclosure Portal.

Admissions

Part 1: Apply to the University of Georgia

The Graduate School handles admission for all graduate programs at the University of Georgia, including those in the College of Education. The Graduate School website contains important details about the application process, orientation, and many other useful links to guide you through the process of attending UGA at the graduate level.

Start A Graduate School Application

Part 2: Apply to the Degree Program

After filling out your application to the graduate school, please submit the following directly to the graduate programs office:

A personal statement telling the doctoral admissions committee why doctoral education is being pursued; the questions and/or commitments about teaching, learning and schooling pushing the applicant to further her or his education; what readings, theories, and/or research inform these questions; why the Doctoral Program of Educational Theory and Practice is an appropriate place to pursue such questions; the emphasis area (or areas) in which the applicant sees his or her interests fitting; and the personal and professional goals for obtaining a PhD degree in Educational Theory and Practice;
A writing sample that demonstrates the applicant's ability for scholarly writing and engagement with intellectual ideas;
A resume or curriculum vitae.
Please note that at least one of the three references you provide to the graduate school should be a university faculty member who can attest to your academic potential, preferably from the master's level.

Additional Resources

Please use our online form if you have any questions for the department. Please be as specific as possible so that we may quickly assist you.

Doctoral Assistantship Application (Due by January 15th)

Meet Your Advisor

A close working relationship with your advisor is key as you progress through your program of study. Please note that most graduate students at UGA are not assigned to a faculty advisor until after admittance.

Find Your Advisor

Tuition and Financial Aid

Almost all in-state students begin their studies at UGA paying limited tuition or fees. Please note that these amounts are subject to change and are meant to give prospective students an idea of the costs associated with a degree at the University of Georgia College of Education.

Students may qualify for a variety of assistantships, scholarships, and other financial awards to help offset the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses.

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Student Life

Doctoral students have the opportunity to attend academic conferences and develop their capacity to produce research in local, national, and international contexts. Graduate students can also participate in a number of student organizations, including the Feminist Scholars-Activist and the Graduate Student Organization.

Most full-time students can apply for and receive a graduate assistantship.

Explore Student Organizations