The Doctor of Philosophy in Critical Studies in the Education of the Deaf Learner emphasizes critical pedagogy as the foundation for advocacy in the education of deaf individuals. Graduates are prepared to be agents of change in their roles as practitioners, administrators, teacher educators, and researchers through a critical examination of educational, social, and political issues.

Our doctoral program provides a balance between a required core program of study and an individualized study in a concentration area in which the student plans a course of study with the guidance of the faculty advisor. In completing the concentration area requirements, the student engages in independent study courses, seminars, and research internships directly applicable to the area of research pursued.

To succeed in the doctoral program in education, students must possess a high degree of initiative, self-direction, and commitment to inquiry. Upon completion of all program requirements except the dissertation, students in the doctoral program may apply to be awarded an Education Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) degree. The Ed.S. degree is typically awarded after two to three academic years of full-time study, and is not a terminal degree. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is awarded upon successful completion of the dissertation requirements.

For more information on the program of study and specific requirements for the Ph.D. in Critical Studies in the Education of Deaf Learners, visit the Academic Catalog.

Requirements

  • Completed application form. See Application Instructions to learn how.
  • A non-refundable application fee of $75.
  • A minimum 3.0 grade point average (on a four-point scale) in all previous undergraduate and graduate study. (Occasionally, applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0 may be admitted conditionally upon the recommendation of the department.)
  • Official transcripts of all undergraduate study, including evidence of having received a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. (Those applying during their final undergraduate year will be required to submit a final transcript after completion of their bachelor's degree and before enrolling in their first semester of graduate study.) See Application Guidelines and FAQ for more information.
  • Official transcripts of all graduate study. See Application Guidelines and FAQ for more information.
  • Goals statement. See Application Guidelines for more information.
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • TOEFL is required from all international applicants from non-English speaking countries. (Use 5240 for the ETS institutional code)

Additional Program Requirements

  • M.A. in field related to professional goals
  • Scholarly ASL Sample (one or two artifacts) *
  • Scholarly English Sample (one or two artifacts) *
  • A minimum of 3 years experience with deaf children and youth (demonstrated via resume or letter or recommendation)

*The purpose of a scholarly sample is for you to demonstrate acquisition of an academic level of both ASL and English. Examples of artifacts that can be included are: published articles, papers written for classes, professional presentations or workshops you have given, reflections, critiques, or any other academic stance you would like to take.