Ph.D. Program Model

Ph.D. programs at Peabody follow the master-apprentice model of doctoral preparation.

The college has designed its Ph.D. programs for the sole purpose of preparing the next generation of researchers and scholars studying education and human development. We take as our goal preparing and placing graduates in faculty positions at research universities, in prestigious postdoctoral positions, and in research analytic capacities with public policy think-tanks and non-governmental organizations.

If selected to join us, you will engage in research projects designed by your adviser and study with many of the leading researchers in the nation examining pressing education and human development questions. During the course of your study, you will develop a comprehensive set of methodological skills and will spend considerable effort crafting and shaping a program of research to guide your research career. When you leave, you will be among the most qualified graduates in the nation for academic positions in your area.

The cadre of students selected each year to enter our Ph.D. programs are among the most highly qualified in the nation. In 2006, the verbal and quantitative GRE scores of those admitted averaged 1358. Entry into Peabody doctoral programs is highly competitive, and requires a candidate present an academic record of distinction and a mature and insightful statement of purpose. We intend for the collaborative research relationships you develop here to continue throughout your career as an academic.

All admitted Ph.D. students receive funding for up to five years of study. Those invited to join us will receive a financial package which includes full tuition, a monthly stipend competitive with any college of education in the nation, and health insurance. Based upon presented qualifications, the college will nominate select students for additional honor scholarships and fellowships awarded by both the college and the graduate school. These merit awards supplement the baseline college award.

Additionally, Ph.D. students will receive funds to support travel each year to the American Educational Research Association annual conference and one additional academic conference. After your first year in the program, funding for travel may be contingent upon having papers accepted for presentation.