Stanford University

Overview

The PhD program in International Comparative Education (ICE) at Stanford University is designed to cultivate researchers who will examine the dynamic interplay between education systems and the broader economic, political, and social contexts in which they operate. Through a rigorous curriculum, students will build a solid foundation in social science theories and methodologies while engaging in original scholarship focused on education and development.

What you'll study

Programme Structure: The ICE PhD program is structured to enhance research capabilities at the intersection of social science and education policy.

• Foundational training: Students are expected to possess, or will develop, graduate-level expertise in a relevant social science discipline, equivalent to a master’s degree or a PhD minor.
• Comparative education research: The curriculum emphasizes comparative methodologies, allowing students to analyze and evaluate education systems, policies, and institutions across diverse countries and regions.
• Research development: Students will formulate research questions, refine their methodological approaches, and progress towards their original dissertation research under departmental mentorship and academic benchmarks.
• Dissertation requirement: The culmination of the program is a doctoral dissertation that reflects original research contributions to the field of International Comparative Education.

Note: For specific course requirements, semester outlines, and dissertation milestones, students should consult the current degree requirements with the department.

Entry requirements

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD program in International Comparative Education are well-equipped for diverse career paths, including roles in academia, policy analysis, international organizations, non-profits, and governmental agencies. Their expertise in education systems and comparative analysis positions them as leaders in the field of education reform and development worldwide.