Program Overview
The Ph.D. in Social Studies Education at Ohio University equips students with a comprehensive foundation in social studies subject matter, research methodologies, and teaching practices. Through coursework, practica, and a dissertation, students develop analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for careers in research, teaching, and leadership roles in social studies education.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education at Ohio University provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the field, preparing them for research, teaching, and leadership roles. The program emphasizes a deep understanding of social studies subject matter, theories of learning and instruction, research methodologies, and ethical dimensions of education. Graduates of the program can expect to develop strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to conduct independent research and contribute to the advancement of the field.
Outline:
The Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education consists of 72 semester credit hours, including dissertation research. The coursework is divided into four core areas:
- Foundations Core: This core provides students with foundational knowledge in social studies subject matter and research methodologies.
- Teaching & Learning Core: This core focuses on theories of curriculum and instructional change, as well as practical experience in teaching social studies.
- Research Core: This core provides students with a strong foundation in research design, data analysis, and writing for professional publication.
- Specialization: Students choose a specialization area in consultation with their doctoral committee. Specialization areas include programs and practices in elementary social studies, teaching social studies in junior and senior high, inquiry and value clarification in social studies, curriculum in social studies education, and program analysis in social studies education. In addition to coursework, students must complete a dissertation, which is an independent research project that makes an original contribution to the field of social studies education.
Assessment:
The assessment of student learning in the Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education is based on a variety of methods, including:
- Coursework: Students are assessed on their knowledge and understanding of course material through exams, papers, presentations, and other assignments.
- Practicum Experiences: Students complete practica in teaching social studies at the elementary and secondary levels, which are assessed by faculty supervisors.
- Research Projects: Students conduct research projects as part of their coursework and dissertation, which are assessed by faculty members.
- Dissertation: The dissertation is the culmination of the student's doctoral studies and is assessed by a committee of faculty members.
Teaching:
The Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and teaching in the field. The faculty are committed to providing students with a supportive and challenging learning environment that fosters intellectual growth and professional development. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, seminars, and workshops. Students also have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members on research projects and other scholarly activities.
Careers:
Graduates of the Ph.D. program in Social Studies Education are prepared for a variety of careers in research, teaching, and leadership. Graduates may pursue careers as faculty members at colleges and universities, researchers at think tanks or government agencies, or curriculum developers for educational publishers. Graduates may also find opportunities in educational policymaking, teacher professional development, and other fields related to social studies education.
