“Everyone at Penn GSE is there for your success.”
Demetri Morgan, Ph.D., GR'16
A highly individualized doctoral program with nationally recognized faculty researching the issues shaping higher education.
The Higher Education Ph.D. program is pioneering research on the most pressing questions in higher education: college access and affordability; equal opportunity policies on campus; international education; and university governance. Our graduates are prepared to contribute to the field through positions in academia, government, or nonprofit institutions.
Program Details
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December 1 Application Deadline
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Fall Entry Term
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Full-Time Enrollment Format
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20 Courses
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4 Years Fully Funded Dean's Fellowship and Research Apprenticeship
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On Campus Modality
Overview
The Ph.D. in Higher Education prepares students for academic and research-focused careers in the field of higher education.
Through a combination of coursework, research assistantships, and working closely with their academic advisors, students develop the skills needed to conduct primary research in higher education. These skills include understanding research design and the analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data.
This program is highly individualized and students collaborate with their academic advisor to design a personalized plan of study. Drawing from courses within the Higher Education division as well as across the broader University of Pennsylvania, students tailor their academic experience to align with their unique research interests and career goals.
Take the Next Step
Application Requirements and Deadlines Tuition and Fees Ph.D. Funding
Hear From Our Alumni
Hear From Our Alumni
Demetri Morgan, Ph.D., GR'16
Upcoming Events
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Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
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Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program in Higher Education is highly individualized. At least 12 course units of graduate work must be taken at the University of Pennsylvania. The program requires students to complete two methods courses, and Ph.D. students develop a planned program of study in consultation with their academic advisor.
For more information on courses and requirements, visit the Higher Education Ph.D. program in the University Catalog.
Do you have questions about the coursework or research?
We are here to help! Contact the program staff below:
Program Manager: Ross Aikins, raikins@gse.upenn.edu
Program Coordinator: Noel Lipki, nlipki@upenn.edu
Outcomes
Graduates are equipped to drive change in the field through careers in academia, government, policy, and nonprofit organizations. Whether conducting research, shaping policy, or leading institutions, our alumni are advancing equity and innovation in higher education worldwide.
Alumni Careers
- Assistant Dean of Students, New York University
- Assistant Professor, Arizona State University
- Assistant Professor, Seattle University
- Assistant Professor, University of Denver
- Assistant Professor, The University of Michigan School of Education
- Associate Dean, Harvard Graduate School of Education
- Associate Professor, Loyola University of Chicago
- Director of Research, Jack Kent Cooke Foundation
- Director of Research, Institute for Higher Education
- Policy Postdoctoral Scholar, University of California Davis
- Professor, Teachers College, Columbia University
- Senior Policy Advisor, United States Department of Education
Apply Now
A graduate degree from Penn GSE opens up whole new worlds, intellectually as well as professionally. If you are a passionate, innovative, impactful leader—or aspire to be one—Penn GSE is the place for you.
Affiliated Faculty
Our affiliated faculty are valued members of the Penn GSE community and are leaders in their fields and disciplines across higher education and in the private sector. In addition to teaching students, many of our affiliated faculty also contribute to curricular development, research, and serve as student mentors.
Contact Us
Do you have questions about our programs, admissions requirements, or financial aid? We're here to help!
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