This degree is designed for those who seek advanced preparation in teaching and curriculum with the goal of participating professionally in a variety of venues, including public and private schools, universities, community colleges, government, and other agencies. The research-intensive program is jointly sponsored by three units in the College of Education: the Center for Science Teaching and Learning (CSTL), the Department of Educational Specialties (ESP), and the Department of Teaching and Learning (DTL).
This degree is appropriate if you are seeking advanced preparation in teaching and learning and wish to prepare for professional leadership and participation in public or private schools, community colleges, universities, and other agencies.
To receive a Doctor of Philosophy Degree (PhD) at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses, from one or more disciplines, ranging from at least 60 - 109 units of graduate-level courses. Most plans require research, a dissertation, and comprehensive exams. All plans have residency requirements regarding time spent on the Flagstaff campus engaged in full-time study.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
| Minimum Units for Completion | 60 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Required |
| Dissertation | Dissertation is required. |
| Comprehensive Exam | Comprehensive Exam is required. |
| Oral Defense | Oral Defense is required. |
| Research | Individualized research is required. |
| Some online/blended coursework | Required |
Purpose Statement
The Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) Doctoral program is designed and ideally suited for educational professionals with prior degrees in fields such education, higher education, and other professional fields (i.e. engineering and nursing). Individuals may be continuing their academic journey, or engaged in careers such as teaching (K-20), education leadership, curriculum development, or community development through curricular design. Students have a desire to engage in a rigorous program to gain a thorough understanding of the field of curriculum and instruction. Ultimately, through their research, publication, and professional contributions, candidates will enrich the field of education and curriculum design throughout Arizona, the nation, and internationally. Students participate in advanced coursework, readings, and seminars that explore the depth and breadth of major theories, and research methodologies across the field of curriculum and instruction. Engaging with faculty members, students explore theoretical frameworks and construct reasoned curricular arguments that fit within the field of curriculum and instruction as well as their professional contexts of practice. Our graduates work in many educational contexts including universities, community colleges, K-12 districts and schools, as well as business, technical, and vocational institutions. Pursing expertise through the program’s progression pathways, graduates from the C&I Program are prepared to assume positions as assistant professors in several diverse areas (including, but not limited to: curriculum and instruction, teacher education, instructional design, and early childhood education). Additionally, international students graduating from this program, often return to assume university faculty positions and become agents of change within their communities. The PhD program prepares individuals to assume expert roles in many fields of education such as: learning and curricular, design, higher education, education technology, and leadership.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students will:
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
This Doctoral degree requires 60 units distributed as follows:
Students in the Curriculum and Instruction Program complete a plan of study which consists of a set of required courses, as well as courses selected in consultation with their faculty advisor.
Take the following 60 units:
For more information about residency and other requirements that pertain to this degree, see the Doctoral Requirements Policy.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.