How can we develop schools that are more responsive to diverse communities? The CGU/SDSU joint PhD program in Education prepares you to contribute to the knowledge base that supports creation of educational programs and systems that are democratic and effective.
The mission of the Joint PhD program in Education offered by San Diego State University and Claremont Graduate University is to develop scholars committed to research on democratic schooling, social justice, and equal educational outcomes for all students, as well as the improvement of educational systems serving diverse communities. The PhD is awarded on the basis of the candidate’s achievement in these areas:
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- Understanding of diversity and its implications for education
- Analysis and development of educational policy
- Expertise in systemic organizational change
- Application of theory and research-based knowledge to the transformation of communities
- Use of effective educational practices, including tools available through technology
- Contribution to the knowledge base in education
The student demonstrates these capabilities through coursework, qualifying exams, and completion of a dissertation under the supervision of a committee composed of faculty from both universities. Students complete a minimum of 24 units at San Diego State University and 24 units at Claremont Graduate University.
The program has been in existence since 1978, established under the leadership of Tomas Arciniega and Peggy Hawley at SDSU and Paul Albrecht, then dean of faculty at CGU. Since 1981, more than 190 education professionals have earned PhDs through the program, which offers the benefits of a large, comprehensive public university and a small private university within a transdisciplinary learning environment. Graduates are currently employed as school principals, superintendents and program directors, college and university faculty and administrators, educational specialists in private and public agencies, and consultants to schools and businesses.
Program Highlights
- Both CGU and SDSU offer a broad range of doctoral seminars and other graduate courses in education and related fields. In consultation with faculty advisors from the two universities, students develop an individualized program of study appropriate to their particular interests and designed to support their development.
- Faculty at SDSU and CGU bring diverse research and teaching interests to the study of democratic schooling, social justice, and diversity in education, with expertise in such areas as public policy, organizational theory and leadership, curriculum and instruction, bilingual and cross-cultural education, educational technology, and more.
- Although full-time study is encouraged, most students in the program are working professionals. Full-time students can expect to complete the program in as little as three years; part-time study significantly extends the time for degree completion.
- All applicants must have completed a master’s degree program prior to admission and reside in, or commit to relocating to, San Diego or Imperial counties.
- Fall and spring classes at both schools are offered in the late afternoon and evening. A variety of courses are also available during the summer at CGU. Students are required to integrate their SDSU and CGU coursework.
Program At-a-glance
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72 units
required units
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PhD in Education, Joint Program With San Diego State University
degree awarded
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In Person
modality
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Fall
program start
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4-7 years | full time*
estimated completion time
Areas of Concentration
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K12 Education & Equity: Policy, Practice & Reform
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Higher Education & Student Affairs
Take an approach to study based on a multidisciplinary view of theory and research, and a commitment to developing educational environments that are just, relevant, and rigorous.
