Skip Navigation

Doctor of Education, Ph.D

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Adult and Higher Education

Ph.D. in Adult and Higher Education
Degree Overview

Stylized crimson line.

The Ph.D. program offers a customizable research-focused doctorate. Students collaborate with advisors and doctoral committees to design individualized programs aligned with their research interests.

The program serves both full-time students and working professionals, emphasizing research expertise development through rigorous coursework and mentored investigation. 

Stylized crimson line.

Doctoral Program Requirements

  • Copies of all transcripts
  • Resume or curriculum vita
  • Statement of goals
  • A minimum of three letters of references (to include both academic and professional references but they cannot be from current or former EDAH faculty)
  • A sample of scholarly writing
  • For International applicants, an acceptable TOEFL score

Doctor of Philosophy Overview

The Ph.D. program develops scholars, practitioners, and leaders who advance knowledge in higher education and other organizational settings through rigorous research and scholarly inquiry. Students examine the intersections of policy, organizational dynamics, and student development, while developing expertise in research methodologies and critical inquiry. The curriculum emphasizes historical context, social analysis, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to advance knowledge that can help guide and inform policy and practice through complex challenges. Through rigorous coursework, research opportunities, and committed mentoring, students emerge prepared to advance scholarship and practice in their individual areas of interest.

The program consists of the following:

  • Core: 9 credit hours
    • Administration of Adult & Higher Education
    • Critical Literature
    • The Adult Learner
  • Pro-Seminar
  • Courses in Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods
  • Electives
  • Prospectus Development
  • Doctoral Dissertation

Students must complete 95 credit hours.

PT students during course lecture

Take the Next Step

Elevate your impact through our Adult & Higher Education program, developing expertise for pioneering initiatives designed to advance educational practice, policy, and scholarship.

Note: If you have any difficulties with the application process, contact Graduate Admissions directly at gradadm@ou.edu or by phone at (405) 325-6765.

Request More Info

Mike Jenkins
Graduate Programs
Support Specialist

Email: mjenkins@ou.edu
Phone: (405) 325-4525

Students and faculty in graduation regalia standing in front of a Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education banner.