PhD in Foundations of Education

Ph.D. students in Foundations of Education dive deep into the "why" behind the systems, policies and practices that shape our schools, “what” drives change across educational sectors and “how” to influence the dynamics between schools and society to create a more peaceful and just world. The Ph.D. program is distinctive in its emphasis on community and culture, social justice and peace education. UToledo has the only doctoral program in Foundations of Education in the region. Our program caters to working professionals. Courses are offered in the evening and can follow blended formats with opportunities for asynchronous online learning. The program is designed for inquisitive, forward-thinking individuals ready to explore and understand the philosophical, historical, social and cultural forces that influence education in a democratic society. Whether your passion lies in research, policy or leadership, the program will help you build the expertise to lead meaningful change in schools, universities, government agencies or nonprofit organizations. Ph.D. graduates of the program pursue careers as teachers, educational reformers, scholars and researchers, university administrators, university faculty or staff, and leaders in nonprofit organizations, government and community agencies. top reasons to study foundations of education at UToledo Pursue a unique foundational degree. Our Ph.D. program focuses on social justice in education and peace. The program is unique in the region, and one of the few with an explicit focus on social justice and democracy. Enhance career opportunities with a certificate in peace education. Graduate students pursuing a doctoral degree in Foundations of Education can enhance their career opportunities by completing the Peace and Justice Studies Certificate. They also have access to a one-of-a-kind peace education collection: the Reardon Collection and the Betty Reardon Peace Education Resource Center – both dedicated to the Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Betty Reardon. Involvement with the community. Our students have opportunities to learn and participate in a range of popular, community-based programs such as Community Conversations for School Success - an education series that attracts citizens, students and educators to discuss how to help all students succeed, and the Padua Alliance Participatory Action Research - a collaborative initiative between UToledo and its community focused on studying community-school relations. Research and publish. Our graduate students conduct research, present their work at national conferences and co-author articles with faculty. They have the unique opportunity to participate as authors and article submission reviewers for the program journal In Factis Pax.

In addition to admission requirements of the College of Graduate Studies, admission to the doctoral program requires the following:

A master’s degree from an accredited college or university

Previous academic work necessary to successfully complete a doctoral program in the area of study

Evidence of research and writing ability such as a master’s thesis, proctored writing sample, a written research report, one or more reprints of publications, a paper presented to a professional society, or similar evidence of competence

A statement of purpose that describes why you wish to pursue this doctoral program and includes information on previous study, educational experience, professional accomplishments, immediate and future professional goals, a proposed time schedule for completing the degree, and any other information that you believe is relevant for admission into this doctoral degree program

What to Submit with Your Application

Official transcripts from all institutions of higher education

A sample of academic writing (e.g. report, thesis, project, or academic paper)

Statement of purpose

Three letters of recommendation

Resume or curriculum vitae

For the concentrations in foundations of education or educational psychology: a professional interview may be required after the completion of the written application.