Curriculum and Instruction, Ph.D.

Saint Louis University's doctoral program in curriculum and instruction is designed for individuals who work in educational settings — including schools, nonprofits and community organizations — and who wish to deepen their knowledge of teaching and learning.

SLU students choose a research focus that is informed by their work as practitioners and that addresses problems of practice in education. With an emphasis on issues of social justice and educational equity, the program prepares students to produce original research and advocate for educational change.  

Curriculum Overview

This doctoral program emphasizes the tools of research and the interplay of theory and practice in education. The degree requires the completion of 36 credits of coursework, 12 credits of dissertation research, a comprehensive written examination, an oral examination/proposal defense, and a public presentation and defense of the dissertation. Up to six credits of graduate-level research coursework may be considered for transfer.

Careers

Possible career paths for graduates with advanced degrees in curriculum and instruction include faculty positions in colleges and universities, positions in research institutes and organizations, curriculum coordinators/teacher leaders, teacher educators, educational outreach coordinators, nonprofit specialists, special educators and adult educators.

Admission Requirements

Tuition

Additional charges may apply. Other resources are listed below:

Net Price Calculator

Information on Tuition and Fees

Miscellaneous Fees

Information on Summer Tuition

Scholarships and Financial Aid

For priority consideration for graduate assistantships, apply by Jan. 15.

For more information, visit the Office of Student Financial Services.

1. Graduates will be able to explain learning and curriculum theories.
2. Graduates will be able to research questions in the field of curriculum and instruction.
3. Graduates will be able to analyze social justice issues in education.
4. Graduates will be able to explain how learning and curriculum theories are used to develop education programs.
5. Graduates will be able to use oral and written communication.

SLU's Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction is a 48-credit (36 credits of coursework plus 12 credits of dissertation research) degree program beyond the master's degree.

Required Research Courses

Students are required to successfully complete the following four research courses. Up to six credits may be considered for transfer based on students’ prior coursework.  

Advanced Research Electives

Students choose six credits of research electives from either the qualitative or quantitative focus (see lists below).

Non-Course Requirements

• Students must pass a comprehensive written examination upon completion of all required and elective courses.
• Students must pass an oral examination/proposal defense.
• Students must pass a public presentation and defense of their dissertation.

Continuation Standards

Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 in all graduate/professional courses.

Roadmaps are recommended semester-by-semester plans of study for programs and assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.  

Courses and milestones designated as critical (marked with !) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation. Transfer credit may change the roadmap.

This roadmap should not be used in the place of regular academic advising appointments. All students are encouraged to meet with their advisor/mentor each semester. Requirements, course availability and sequencing are subject to change.

Apply for Admission

For additional admission questions, please contact:
Saint Louis University School of Education
314-977-3292
slued@slu.edu