“Their willingness to push to find the right solution for me ended up reshaping how I approach a lot of work I do, and gave me a unique angle with how I was coming at education and literacy.”
T. Philip Nichols, Ph.D., GR'18
Furthering knowledge in literacy and literacy education through research and practice.
The Ph.D. in Literacy Studies is prepares scholar-practitioners for careers in research universities and other educational organizations with a primary mission related to furthering knowledge in literacy and literacy education.
Students work closely with faculty to design an individualized program of study that aligns with their unique interests and goals. Through this personalized approach, doctoral candidates deepen their expertise in specific areas of literacy while building a strong foundation in educational research, theory, and practice.
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. program in Literacy Studies emphasizes the interrelationships and integration of theory, research, policy, and practice. Doctoral students construct individual programs of study with their advisor to suit their interests, combining core courses with additional coursework in research methodology and electives.
In addition to the core doctoral courses, students focus on developing their understanding and expertise in particular aspects of the field.
Areas of Specialization
In the Ph.D. program in Literacy Studies, students create individual programs of study. They are encouraged to develop one or more areas of concentration. Options include, but are not limited to:
- Teacher education and professional development
- Literacy policy and leadership
- Postsecondary learning environments
- Adult literacy education
- Reading, writing, and literacy across elementary, middle, and secondary curricula
- Children’s and adolescent literature
- Literacy practices with families, schools, and communities
- Urban education
- Digital literacies and technologies for teaching and learning
- Critical literacies
Take the Next Step
Application Requirements and Deadlines Tuition and Fees Ph.D. Funding
Hear From Our Alumni
Hear From Our Alumni
T. Philip Nichols, Ph.D., GR'18
Admissions 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
In the Literacy Studies, Ph.D. program, students create individual programs of study. They are encouraged to develop one or more areas of concentration. We encourage our doctoral students to choose electives from our program's courses, from other Penn GSE programs, and from across the University of Pennsylvania
The program includes five required courses, three research courses, and twelve electives. Up to eight courses with approval are eligible as transfer credits. For more information on courses and requirements, visit the Literacy Studies Ph.D. program in the University Catalog.
Do you have questions about the coursework or faculty research?
We are here to help! Contact the program staff below:
Program Manager: Tamika Easley, teasley@upenn.edu
Administrative Assistant: Alondra Ortiz, ortizalo@upenn.edu
Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for careers in research and teaching at colleges and universities and other educational organizations with a primary mission related to furthering knowledge in literacy and literacy 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.
Contact Us
Do you have questions about our programs, admissions requirements, or financial aid? We're here to help!
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