2 Fully Funded PhD in Education at Washington University in St. Louis

The doctoral program in education at Washington University in St. Louis is designed to enrich students’ analytical comprehension of education in both research and practical contexts. The program offers two primary concentrations:

1. Educational Policy Studies

This concentration caters to students seeking a profound understanding of educational policy’s societal context and the underlying theoretical frameworks that shape it.

Students in this concentration delve into the examination of educational policies, such as school discipline, school choice, and school desegregation. They address systemic disparities, challenge deficit perspectives regarding marginalized groups, and develop comprehensive insights into sociology and history. These endeavors encompass qualitative, quantitative, and historical projects that explore the interconnected experiences and perspectives of various educational stakeholders, including students and teachers, at individual, organizational, and structural levels.

2. Educational Psychology

The Educational Psychology concentration offers coursework aimed at providing students with a foundational understanding of psychological research and theories related to learning and motivation. Among the proficiencies students are expected to develop:

• An appreciation for the progress and challenges within psychological research.
• An ability to apply psychological theories to enhance learning and motivation across diverse educational contexts.
• The skill to analyze educational policies and practices through the lens of psychological theories related to learning and motivation.

The coursework within this concentration is tailored based on individual student needs and is determined through consultation between the student and their advisor.

Eligibility Criteria

The Department of Education considers all applicants for admission and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. A bachelor’s degree equivalent is required prior to the application semester, and a master’s degree is not obligatory.

PhD Funding Coverage

Ph.D. students at Washington University receive extensive benefits, including full tuition remission, a health fee subsidy, and a monthly stipend to cover living expenses. The stipend is disbursed over a 12-month period, including the summer months. The university ensures funding for up to six years, contingent on satisfactory program progress. Additionally, competitive fellowships are accessible through the Office of Graduate Studies.

Application Requirements

Applicants are accepted exclusively for the fall semester. To be considered for admission, applicants must submit a comprehensive dossier to Washington University by the December 4th deadline. The dossier should include:

• Completed application
• Personal statement
• Writing sample
• Current CV/resume
• Transcripts from all previous college coursework
• Three completed letters of recommendation with recommendation forms
• International applicants need to submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores as proof of English proficiency.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for fall admission is December 4th. All prospective students are admitted for the fall semester.

Application Process

Applicants should use the online application platform provided by the Office of Graduate Studies. Detailed application requirements are outlined on the Washington University School of Education’s official website. This opportunity offers prospective students a fully funded Ph.D. experience that can significantly contribute to the advancement of their careers in education research and practice.