St. John's University

What you'll study

The PhD combines advanced coursework, rigorous research training and a sustained dissertation project focused on teacher education and professional development within a chosen subject area (for example: mathematics, science, literacy/English, social studies, or special education). Core themes include adult learning theory, curriculum and instruction, assessment and measurement, programme evaluation, and the design and facilitation of professional learning communities.

• Research methods and statistics: advanced qualitative and quantitative methods, mixed methods design, longitudinal and experimental designs as appropriate to educational research.
• Foundations of teacher education: history and philosophy of teacher preparation, contemporary policy contexts, equity and diversity in teacher education.
• Subject‑specific pedagogy: coursework and seminars focused on disciplinary literacies, curriculum standards, and evidence‑based instructional strategies in the candidate's chosen subject area.
• Professional development design and evaluation: models of professional learning, coaching and mentoring, job‑embedded PD, programme evaluation methods.
• Research seminars and colloquia: presentation and peer review of work in progress, preparation for publishing and grant writing.
• Dissertation: an original, publishable research study that contributes to theory and practice in teacher education and professional development, supervised by a faculty advisor and committee.

Programme delivery typically integrates seminars, independent research, practicum or field partnerships with schools and ongoing mentorship. Candidates work closely with faculty to align coursework and research with their subject‑area expertise and professional goals.

Entry requirements

• A recognised master's degree in education or a closely related field. Applicants with substantial professional experience in education or subject teaching may be considered even if their prior degree is in a related discipline.
• A strong academic record; many successful applicants hold a high GPA at master's level. Official transcripts are required.
• A research statement or proposed area of study outlining doctoral research interests and how they align with faculty expertise.
• Curriculum vitae detailing professional experience in teaching, leadership or research.
• Two or three professional or academic references who can attest to the applicant's scholarly potential and professional competencies.
• An interview with faculty may be part of the selection process. Some applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample or evidence of previous research.
• Standardised tests (e.g. GRE) are not universally required; applicants should consult the programme for current testing policy.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD enter a range of positions that influence teacher learning, curriculum and policy. Common career pathways include:

• Higher education faculty roles in teacher education, curriculum and instruction, or subject‑specific pedagogy.
• District‑level leadership such as director of professional development, curriculum coordinator, or instructional coach.
• Research positions in university research centres, independent research organisations, think tanks or non‑profits focused on education innovation.
• Policy roles in governmental or advocacy organisations concerned with teacher preparation, licensure and professional standards.
• Consultancy and leadership in large school networks, charter organisations or international education agencies designing and evaluating professional learning systems.

Why study at St. John's University

• Experienced faculty: doctoral students are mentored by faculty with active research programmes in teacher education, subject‑area pedagogy and professional development.
• Urban school partnerships: St. John’s location and established relationships with local schools and districts provide rich opportunities for field‑based research and collaborative projects.
• Interdisciplinary resources: access to university resources across education, psychology and allied disciplines supports mixed‑methods and applied research approaches.
• Support for scholarship: doctoral candidates benefit from research seminars, grant‑writing support, conference funding opportunities and library resources to develop publishable work.
• Values and mission: study is informed by the university’s Vincentian and Catholic mission, emphasising social justice, equity in education and service to diverse communities.