Learning Sciences & Technologies, PhD
The Ph.D. in Learning Sciences and Technologies focuses on the preparation of researchers and researcher/developers in education. The program includes formal courses, mentored research, and informal seminars. Ph.D. students are required to hold a master’s degree prior to beginning the Ph.D. program, and are expected to have experience in educational practice. You will build a program of study that includes courses in teaching and learning, social foundations, and research methods. The program is designed to draw together coursework, research apprenticeship, and other professional academic activities to build a complete professional program that is tailored to your interests and needs.
For more information: https://www.gse.upenn.edu/academics/programs/learning-sciences-technology-phd
View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
Curriculum
The program requires a minimum of 12 course units beyond the master's degree.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Theory Strand | 3 | |
| Required Courses | ||
| Learning Sciences: Past, Present, Future | ||
| Social Foundations of Teaching and Learning | ||
| How People Learn: Theoretical Foundations | ||
| Methods Strand | 3 | |
| Required Courses (choose 3, pre-approved courses below) 1 | ||
| Introduction to Mixed-Methods Research | ||
| Qualitative Research: Concepts, Methods and Design | ||
| Core Methods in Educational Data Mining | ||
| Advanced Qualitative and Case Study Research | ||
| Social and Statistical Network Analysis | ||
| Regression and Analysis of Variance | ||
| Design Strand | 2 | |
| Required course | ||
| Design of Learning Environments | ||
| Choose 1 more from pre-approved courses below: | ||
| MaKer Studio | ||
| Integrative Design Studio: Biological Design | ||
| Design Thinking | ||
| Applications Courses | 2 | |
| Required Courses (choose 2, pre-approved courses below) | ||
| Video Games and Virtual Worlds as Sites for Learning | ||
| Educational and Social Entrepreneurship | ||
| Digital Literacies in a Networked World | ||
| Educational Assessment of and for Learning | ||
| Big Data, Education, and Society | ||
| Technologies for Language Learning and Teaching | ||
| Professional Experiences 2 | 1 | |
| Required course | ||
| Doctoral Proseminar on Education Research | ||
| Elective 3 | 1 | |
Select 1 elective | ||
| Total Course Units | 12 | |
- 1
Chosen in consultation with an advisor.
- 2
A non-credit bearing Research Apprenticeship Course is required from second semester of first year forward in the Professional Experiences Strand.
- 3
Elective may be taken outside of GSE with advisor approval. Courses must be at the 5000 level or above.
Required Milestones
Qualifications Evaluation (Also known as Program Candidacy)
A Qualifications Evaluation of each student is conducted after the completion of 6 but not more than 8 course units. The evaluation is designed by the specialization faculty and may be based on an examination or on a review of a student’s overall academic progress.
Preliminary Examination (Also known as Doctoral Candidacy)
A Candidacy Examination on the major subject area is required. The candidacy examination is a test of knowledge in the student's area of specialization, requiring students to demonstrate knowledge and reasoning in the key content areas in their specialization as defined by their academic division. This examination is normally held after the candidate has completed all required courses.
Oral Proposal
All doctoral candidates must present their dissertation proposals orally and in person to the dissertation committee.
Final Defense of the Dissertation
The final dissertation defense is approximately two hours in length and is based upon the candidate’s dissertation.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.