PhD in Educational Theory and Practice (Social Studies Education)
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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 wide 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.
Program Highlights
- Regularly ranked as a top 5 program by U.S. News & World Report
- Home to nationally recognized and award-winning faculty
- Work with faculty on cutting-edge education research
- Integrates theory and practice to support educational change
Deadline to Apply
January 1 (summer/fall admission), October 1 (spring admission)
Faculty and 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.
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.
Meet Your Advisor
Most graduate students at UGA are not assigned to a faculty advisor until after admittance. A close working relationship with your advisor is paramount to progressing through your program of study.
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.
Book a campus visit
See for yourself how much UGA College of Education has to offer! Schedule a tour of campus to learn more about the UGA student experience.
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 PhD in Educational Theory and Practice (Social Studies Education)
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.
Returning Applicants
Completed application due:
January 1 (summer/fall admission), October 1 (spring admission)
Program Resources
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