A doctoral program emphasizing research and innovation in education through technology, data, and curriculum design.
Explore ways to enhance learning, motivation, and engagement in formal, informal, and online educational settings.
The Ph.D. program in Learning Sciences and Technologies (LST) is designed to build and study the learning technologies of tomorrow, analyze large-scale educational data, and develop cutting-edge curricula and learning materials.
September 1 Application Opens
Fall Entry Term
Full-Time Enrollment Format
12 Courses
4 Years Fully Funded Dean's Fellowship and Research Apprenticeship
On Campus Modality
The Learning Sciences and Technologies Ph.D. program address a range of practical and theoretical issues in schools, online learning, and community settings. Coursework and research experiences consider learning in its full richness and context, using sociocultural, cognitive, and psychological perspectives to enhance learning, motivation, and engagement across diverse educational environments. Students will study learning in traditional contexts with new technologies and emerging pedagogies for learning, like constructionist environments, simulations, massive online open courses, serious games, and intelligent tutoring systems.
Applicants should have experience in teaching, instructional design, or learning analytics. Students will build a program of study that includes courses in teaching and learning, social foundations, and research methods, along with field-based research and collaborative projects. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum and active participation in a community of learners, including teachers, educational designers, and researchers.
| This program qualifies for the STEM OPT extension for students on an F-1 visa. |
Application Requirements & Deadlines Tuition & Fees Ph.D. Funding
Luis Morales-Navarro, current student
Luis Morales-Navarro, current student
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm | Location: Online
The Ph.D. in Learning Sciences and Technologies prepares researchers and developer/researchers in education through formal courses, mentored research, and informal seminars. Applicants must hold a master’s degree and have experience in educational practice. The program combines courses in teaching and learning, social foundations, and research methods, combining coursework, research apprenticeships, and professional activities to create a personalized professional program.
For more information about courses and requirements, visit the Learning Sciences and Technologies Ph.D. program in the University Catalog.
We're happy to help! Contact the program manager, Noemí Fernández, noemif@upenn.edu.
The Ph.D. program in Learning Sciences and Technologies prepares graduates for research and development roles in universities, industry, and non-profits. Graduates are expected to secure teaching and research positions in higher education or research and development positions industry and non-profits. The program equips students to build and study future learning technologies, analyze large-scale educational data, and develop innovative curricula and learning materials.
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.
Do you have questions about our programs, admissions requirements, or financial aid? We're here to help!
