Doctor of Philosophy in Education and Human Development, Research and Evaluation Methods
School of Education & Human Development
Overview
Degree: PhD
Classroom Type: Fully Online
We need researchers who understand societal problems firsthand AND have the tools to tackle them. Join CU Denver’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education and Human Development concentration in Research and Evaluation Methods to become exceptionally data savvy and immediately apply your learning to your field. Students gain expertise in methods and advanced analysis techniques while participating in research, evaluation, and teaching experiences.
Application deadlines
Application opens:
July 1, 2026
Application deadline:
November 15, 2026
Program Details
Interest Categories: Education Human Development Psychology Social & Behavioral Sciences
Campus: CU Denver
The field of education needs experts in data use and research approaches to address critical problems in society. The PhD in Education and Human Development concentration in Research and Evaluation Methods prepares you to become exceptionally data savvy while collaborating with top faculty in the field.
The goal of this concentration is to prepare you to:
- Design and carry out meaningful, engaged research in education, human development, and social science fields.
- Become collaborative, mindful, culturally responsive researchers and evaluators. We take a strong social justice stance to our field.
- Learn advanced quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research techniques.
Why Research and Evaluation Methods at CU Denver?
Teaching and Research Experiences
You will participate in teaching and research experiences early and throughout the program.
Build Your Dossier
Leverage opportunities to present and publish with your faculty to build a strong resume alongside your coursework.
Conduct Research and Evaluation Studies
As part of the course requirements, you will learn how to design and conduct multiple research and evaluation studies including a dissertation study.
Networking & Collaboration
Gain access to faculty networks while building your own connections through multiple collaboration opportunities across the university and your field of interest.
Helpful Links & Documents
Sample Courses
- RSEM 7100 - Advanced Qualitative Methods 3 credits
- RSEM 7130 - Advanced Measurement: Item Response Theory 3 credits
- RSEM 7800 - Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) 3 credits
- RSEM 7400 - Culturally Responsive Research and Evaluation Methods 3 credits
Recommended Completion Time:4 to 5 years
Required Credits for Completion:75
Admission Requirements
Application Opens: July 1, 2026
Application Deadline: Novemeber 15, 2026
Minimum Requirements:
- Master's degree or equivalent
- 3.5 GPA in graduate-level coursework (recommended)
- Three recommendation letters (two from university faculty)
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Teaching license (if applying for licensure)
- Current resume/CV demonstrating relevant professional and academic experience
- Written statement (2-4 pages) addressing educational background, research goals, and career alignment with the program
- Master's thesis and/or published materials (recommended)
- $50 application fee
- Admissions interview (may be required)
- Proof of English language proficiency (international applicants)
Additional Information
Pre-Application Consultation: We require potential applicants to meet with a faculty advisor in a specified concentration area, who conducts research in an applicant’s area of interest, prior to submitting an application. This ensures applicants have an opportunity to discuss their research areas of interest, as well as an opportunity to introduce themselves to faculty and learn about faculty research areas. Additionally, you will be asked to write the faculty member’s name in the application. The program lead for Research and Evaluation Methods can be reached at nancy.leech@ucdenver.edu.
International Applicants only: Proof of English Language Proficiency (International applicants should review the following information regarding English language proficiency). This program does not meet the visa requirements for students planning to use either a F-1 or J-1 visa. For more questions regarding visa requirements please contact intladmissions@ucdenver.edu.
For more information, email education@ucdenver.edu or call 303.315.6300.