Find out more about Doctor of Philosophy in Education / Early Childhood Education

Program Details

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD-Ed) program is suitable for students who want to combine a strong base of theoretical knowledge with an individualized focus to conduct research in and about PK-12, postsecondary and adult learning environments. 

PhDs in Education are found in many different roles in academia, industry and not-for-profit organizations, including educational consultant, academic researcher, policy maker, educational theorist, and faculty member or administrator in a higher education or organizational setting. Students pursuing the PhD in Education have the opportunity to customize and focus their program through their coursework, doctoral research courses and the doctoral dissertation.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education with a specialization in Early Childhood Education at Northcentral University is designed to help you develop an understanding of the breadth and depth of early childhood education research, curriculum and policy. This specialization is competency-based and emphasizes research a teaching across a broad spectrum of topics, including childhood development, literature, program administration, curriculum and assessment, and stakeholder partnerships. 

As a PhD in Early Childhood Education graduate, you will be prepared to pursue leadership positions in schools, higher education organizations and research settings in various areas, including educational assessment, curricula development, education research, administration and instruction, education policy, teacher training, teaching, and advocacy addressing children from birth though age 8.