Doctor of Philosophy in Education and Human Development - Early Childhood Education/Early Childhood Special Education

PhD

​Neuropsychologists and educators have demonstrated beyond question that the early years are critical years in children’s brain development, learning and health. The growing and dynamic field of inclusive early childhood education is evident in the burgeoning research and practice literatures in early childhood and early childhood special education. CU Denver’s doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education and Human Development concentration in early childhood special education/early childhood education prepares you to be a leader, faculty member and researcher at the forefront of the change.

The Program at a Glance

School: School of Education & Human Development Campus: CU Denver Classroom: Online and on campus classes Recommended completion time: 5 to 8 years Credits required for completion: 75 Minimum education level: Master's degree from a regionally accredited institution Application deadline: December 1st

The Details

What you'll learn

The field of early childhood education is in a dynamic period of growth thanks to a growing research base from multiple disciplines including neuropsychology, child development, family sciences and early education. We have never been more aware of the innate competencies and potentials of all children starting in infancy. CU Denver's Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education and Human Development concentration in early childhood education/early childhood special education (ECE/ECSE) prepares you to be a leader, faculty member and researcher at the forefront of this change.

In this concentration, students will:

  • Obtain knowledge of high quality practices in inclusive early childhood education to lead at state and national levels within their roles at institutions of higher education.
  • Develop the skills to conduct rigorous research related to culturally responsive, evidence-based practices.
  • Translate research into practice, thus expanding the use of high quality practices in the field.
  • Create, evaluate and improve preservice teacher education programs in ECE and ECSE.
  • Advocate for and lead change to assure all children's growth and development across diverse settings.

Choose CU Denver's School of Education & Human Development

You can trust CU Denver to provide an education that will prepare you for excellence in your career as a faculty member or researcher. The university and school are recognized for preparing leaders of distinction who value educational excellence and social justice. Additionally, CU Denver's School of Education and Human Development is counted among U.S. News & World Report's “Best Graduate Schools,” making us one of the top education schools in the country.

Courses

The 75-credit program begins each fall.

Funding

Tuition support and stipend available starting Fall 2020 for PhD students in ECE.

Program Curriculum

Admissions Requirements

The PhD in Education and Human Development, early childhood special education/early childhood education concentration, is a five to eight-year hybrid program with the following application requirements:

  • Master's degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Strong interest in pursuing rigorous research
  • Written Statement of Purpose
    • A brief biographical outline of your educational and leadership experiences, including your present commitments and values related to leadership
    • Your purpose in pursuing the PhD
    • A brief sketch of your future career goals
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • GRE (official scores within the last five years)
  • Professional artifacts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Interview

Upon examination of an applicant's materials, the admission committee will have the prerogative to require additional courses or experiences to ensure that an individual has the necessary background to move successfully into the program requirements.

For more information, email education@ucdenver.edu or call 303.315.6300.

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