Here to connect research theory to real-world practice.
The Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education, Ed.D. program is a practice-oriented doctoral program designed for educators and instructional leaders who seek to apply research to improve educational practice. Our graduates serve as researchers and teacher educators in universities and colleges, curriculum developers and evaluators in educational agencies, curriculum specialists in school districts and state departments of education, and instructional leaders and classroom teachers in K–12 schools.
Program Details
-
December 1 Application Deadline
-
Fall Entry Term
-
Full or Part-Time Enrollment Format
-
12 Courses
-
4 Years Duration
-
On Campus Modality
Overview
With a strong focus on the reflective use of research, the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education, Ed.D. program emphasizes the application of theory to real-world educational challenges. Coursework and dissertation work center on critical evaluation of research, mastery of an area of specialization, and the development of strategies for improving educational practice. Students gain proficiency in planning and conducting research that directly informs teaching, curriculum development, and instructional leadership.
Field-based research and collaborative projects with practitioners in schools or other educational settings are central to the program. A key component of this professional experience is the Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC), which supports students in developing, conducting, and presenting original research. As part of the Professional Experiences strand, RAC is structured around students’ research interests and fosters a collaborative learning environment where participants contribute to scheduling activities, leading discussions, and shaping the agenda to reflect the collective needs of the group.
The program also emphasizes mentorship, with students at different stages of their doctoral journey guiding one another under faculty supervision. Beginning in the spring of the first year, students engage in the RAC and continue their participation until the completion of their dissertation.
Take the Next Step
Application Requirements and Deadlines Tuition and Fees Financial Aid
Admissions Events
-
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
-
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Location: Online
Curriculum
Full-time Ed.D. students enroll in 3 course units (CUs) each semester for the first two years and are expected to be in residence and participate in practicum activities, courses, and other academic experiences throughout the first two years. Part-time students must complete a residency requirement that involves taking at least four courses in two consecutive semesters.
You will select a focal area such as teaching and learning, research and practice in teacher education, mathematics or science education, and the study of urban education and urban contexts. Coursework and experiences are arranged around three areas or strands, including specialization courses, research methods courses, and electives/professional experiences, as well as a set of core courses. You will devise an individualized program of study based on your research interests and in consultation with your advisor. For more information on courses and requirements, visit the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D. program in the University Catalog.
Do you have questions about the coursework or faculty research?
We're happy to help! Contact the Program Manager, Noemí Fernández, noemif@upenn.edu.
Outcomes
Our graduates are prepared to become curriculum specialists, instructional leaders, and teacher educators in K–12 schools, universities, and educational agencies.
Alumni Careers
- Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Lindenwold School District
- Education Technical Specialist, CARE International
- Lecturer, Bryn Mawr College
- Principal, School District of Philadelphia
- Senior Program Officer, Knowles Science Teaching Foundation
- Supervisor: Math, Science, Tech and Music, Tredyffrin/Easttown School District
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
Contact us if you have any questions about the program.
Related News
With funding from the Neubauer Family Foundation, the program was created in direct response to the School District of Philadelphia’s call for targeted support in Algebra 1 instruction.
On May 17, in the Palestra, Penn GSE commemorated the achievements of the roughly 600 master’s and doctoral graduates at this year’s Commencement ceremony.
This spring, those honors include three Spencer Foundation grants, the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, and more.
Professor of Practice Andrea Kane emphasizes the importance of educators and school leaders engaging with themselves, each other, and their school communities to navigate district policies, state laws, and complex or controversial topics in the classroom.
Educators and scholars explored how educators can model democratic engagement while honoring student voice and diverse perspectives.
The recent graduate of Penn GSE’s Urban Teaching Residency shares her classroom at Muñoz-Marin Elementary in North Philadelphia.
The Project-Based Learning for Global Climate Justice certificate program is a collaboration between Penn GSE and 70 educators around Asia, Africa, and Europe working together on a K–12 education program that emphasizes climate change and social inequalities.
Arrington aims to inspire students to think independently and be creative while demystifying and critically examining academic institutions’ expectations for writing and literacy.
Funded by the NSF, the Create AI workshop aimed to empower students and teachers to build, not just use, AI.