Doctor of Philosophy in Literacy Studies - Literacy Instruction and Staff Development

The Literacy Instruction and Staff Development concentration of the Ph.D. in Literacy Studies program at Middle Tennessee State University addresses of education's most pressing needs — the shortage of scholars, practitirs, administrators, and policy-makers equipped to bridge the gap between the rapidly expanding body of scientific research on the development of literacy and educational practice, policy, and professional preparation. This concentration prepares scholars to serve as teacher educators in university, school, district, and state contexts. Classes in this concentration will lead to specialized knowledge in literacy instruction and professional development. Students also choose to learn specialized knowledge about multilingual learners in this concentration. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Literacy Studies with a concentration in Literacy Instruction and Staff Development requires completion of 75-87 hours with at least 70 percent at the 7000 level. Candidates are required to complete and successfully defend a research-based dissertation.

Admissions are based on a comprehensive assessment of a candidate qualifications including Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, undergraduate and graduate grade point average, letters of recommendation, prior professional experiences, and application essay.Applicants are expected to have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.50 in master coursework or 2.75 for a post-bachelor applicant.