Individualized program of study for practitioner-scholars in reading, writing, and literacy.
The Ed.D. program in Literacy Studies features a strong commitment to educational practice and preparing practitioner-scholars. Students take part in courses and seminars, both those specifically designed for Ed.D. students and others in Penn GSE or across the university. Students work with their advisors to construct their own individual course of study.
This program was previously known as Reading/Writing/Literacy Ed.D. Beginning in Summer 2024, this program will be titled Literacy Studies Ed.D.
What Sets Us Apart
About the Program
In the Ed.D. program in Literacy Studies, students tailor their course of study to their individual interests. Of 20 required courses, 11 of them are electives, allowing students to work with their advisors to develop a program that is best suited to the individual’s areas of interest.
3 courses per semester (fall/spring)
Transfer courses acceptedUp to 8 courses with approval
Culminating experienceComprehensive examination and dissertation
Duration of program4–6 years
- Full-Time
- Part-Time
The Ed.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.
This program features a strong commitment to educational practice and preparing practitioner-scholars. Ed.D. applicants are required to hold a master’s degree and are expected to have experience in educational practice. Students can register as full-time or part-time students.
Curriculum
In the Ed.D. program in Literacy Studies, students tailor their programs of study. Students 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
The program includes six required courses, three research courses, and 11 electives. All students take part in courses and seminars specifically designed for Ed.D. students across Penn GSE and select an Ed.D. cognate of study. For more information on courses and requirements, visit the Literacy Studies Ed.D. program in the University Catalog.
Our Faculty
Our faculty are renowned scholars who are committed to educational practice and to supporting practitioner-scholars.
Our Graduates
The Ed.D. program in Literacy Studies trains practitioner-scholars for positions involving the practice of education in schools, school districts, colleges and universities, government agencies, foundations, entrepreneurial ventures, and consulting organizations.
Alumni Careers
- Assistant Professor, Clemson University
- Assistant Professor, Ithaca College
- Assistant Professor of English, Temple University
- Coordinator/Instructor, Teacher Academy
- Faculty Affiliate, Haverford College Writing Center
- Gifted Support Teacher, Great Valley School District
- Language Arts Literacy Teacher, Flemington-Raritan School District
- Literacy Consultant/Professional Developer, Philadelphia Out-of-School Time Literacy Initiative
- Middle School Division Head, Woodlynde School
- Urban Education Professional, Center for Inspired Teaching
- Associate Professor, Teacher College, Columbia University
- Director of Community Literacy, University of New Hampshire
Admissions & Financial Aid
Please visit our Admissions and Financial Aid pages for specific information on the application requirements, as well as information on tuition, fees, financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.
Contact us if you have any questions about the program.
Financial Aid
Graduate School of Education
University of Pennsylvania
3700 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 898-6415
admissions@gse.upenn.edu
finaid@gse.upenn.edu
Tamika Easley
Program Manager
(215) 898-3245
teasley@upenn.edu
Kemba Howard
Administrative Assistant
kehoward@upenn.edu
Please view information from our Admissions and Financial Aid Office for specific information on the cost of this program.
Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.
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