PhD in Educational Studies: Specializations

The PhD in Educational Studies program at Boston University enables students to develop skills and expertise in a core specialty, such as educational policy studies, language & literacy education, math & science education, or special education. Coursework in the Educational Studies PhD program is specific to each concentration, allowing you to focus on the subjects that align with your background and interests. The PhD program provides a deliberate course of study, including coursework in a specific content area, research, and active immersion in the community of student and faculty scholars within the program and throughout the college, Boston University, and the profession.

Educational Policy Studies

The PhD in Educational Studies: Educational Policy Studies at BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development is designed for students who intend to engage in applied research that answers policy-relevant questions such as school choice, early education, or social policy in formal and informal learning environments across the lifespan. In addition to coursework and teaching apprenticeships, doctoral students will work on research projects that answers policy questions with issues of diversity and social justice in mind.

Language & Literacy Education

The PhD in Educational Studies: Language & Literacy Education at BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development is designed for students who intend to engage in research that contributes to evolving understandings of language and literacy education in formal and informal learning environments and across the lifespan. The program includes three primary specializations: ASL & Deaf studies, language education, and literacy education.

Mathematics & Science Education

Students in the PhD in Educational Studies: Mathematics & Science Education at BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development work with mathematics and science education faculty studying the nature of mathematical and scientific practice, the design of learning environments, and how to support teacher learning.

Through coursework and apprenticeships, students develop a strong understanding of theory and research in mathematics education and science education; learn how to design, conduct, and critique research studies, and engage in writing and presenting research. The PhD in Educational Studies: Mathematics & Science Education provides strong coursework in research and theories of learning, teaching and teacher education, and curriculum in mathematics and science, while offering flexibility for students to pursue courses of study that advance their particular research and career goals.

Special Education

Students in the PhD in Educational Studies: Special Education at BU Wheelock study with top researchers in special education, who hold particular expertise in interdisciplinary systems serving students with disabilities. In addition to coursework and teaching apprenticeships, doctoral students will work on rigorous, interdisciplinary research, to understand how educational systems interact with policy systems, mental health systems, and family systems, to shape the experiences and outcomes of students with disabilities and their families.