University of Toronto

Overview

The PhD in Adult Education and Community Development (AECD) at the University of Toronto is designed to explore how adults learn in various contexts, including communities, workplaces, social movements, and online environments. This program emphasizes advanced research and training for scholars and practitioners committed to fostering social change.

What You'll Study

Program structure combines advanced coursework with supervised research. You will engage in both required and elective courses, followed by the development and defense of a dissertation tailored to your research interests.

Coursework (examples)

• Program Planning in Adult Education
• Community Development
• Research Methods in Adult Education
• Adult Learning
• Approaches to Teaching Adults
• Developing and Leading High Performing Teams: Theory and Practice
• Creative Empowerment Work with the Disenfranchised
• Working with Survivors of Trauma
• Gender and Race at Work
• Commons, Community and Social Justice
• Learning for the Global Economy
• Professions, Learning, and Work

Research and Dissertation

• Continuous research training aligned with your dissertation topic.
• Guidance in the development of a doctoral research proposal.
• Completion of a dissertation based on original research findings.

Note: The specific sequence of courses and the balance between coursework and dissertation work may vary based on individual student pathways and supervisory plans.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should possess a strong academic background, with a recommended GPA of B+ or higher. Admission will also consider relevant work, community, or volunteer experience, along with the overall fit with the program.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the AECD program are well-prepared for a variety of career paths, including roles in higher education, community organizations, governmental agencies, and international development. Their expertise in adult learning and community engagement equips them to effect positive social change and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.