World-Improving Research and Creativity
The Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis in Information Technology in Education provides advanced training for educators or prospective educators a strong theoretical and practical foundation in dynamic instructional design, and concurrent knowledge and skills to integrate contemporary digital technology in a variety of educational and training settings.
About Our Program
Students in the Information Technology in Education doctoral program are well prepared to be an active researcher with solid research skills and an academic publication agenda. Career options for students with this Ph.D. can be (but not limited to):
- Instructional design assistant professors working in teaching and research institutions
- Instructional designers or leadership positions in instructional design for:
- Universities and colleges
- K-12 schools
- Educational software/gaming companies, industry, and organizations
- Leading technology officers for industry companies working in their education and training divisions
- Senior positions on technology related evaluation and assessment for government, schools, or grant sponsors
For more information, please contact:
Dr. Leping Liu
Professor and Information Technology in Education Doctoral Program Coordinator
liu@unr.edu
775-682-5511
The Information Technology in Education area of emphasis is guided by the general framework found in the Doctoral Program in Education Handbook. The manual provides general information about doctoral concentrations offered in the College of Education. This page will provide you with specific information that is unique to the Information Technology in Education strand.
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Admission Deadlines
Applications and all associated documents must be received by the following dates to be considered. Fall Semester: April 15 | Spring Semester: Oct. 1.
Program Information
If you miss the Graduate School deadline, you may still apply to be a Graduate Special to begin taking coursework for your intended first semester. Materials and criteria for the Information Technology in Education area of emphasis are as follows:
- Undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.00 or higher
- At least two years of relevant experience
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Statement of Intent that includes a philosophy of using technology in education
- Three letters of recommendation
- One sample of scholarly writing
To get started on the application process, please contact Dr. Leping Liu, program coordinator, at liu@unr.edu.
All materials are submitted through the University's application portal. Once you create your account, go back to MyNevada to log in and start your application. Please contact Dr. Leping Liu if you have any questions.
The doctoral degree includes a minimum of 72 semester credits beyond the baccalaureate degree. The chair and advisory committee will work with students to formulate the program of study that meets the following requirements:
Research Core Courses (24 credits)
As described in the doctoral manual, the core curriculum for research includes courses in quantitative design, advance statistics, qualitative design, and mixed methods.
Area Courses (24-36 credits; dependent upon number of dissertation credits carried)
Area core courses consist of instructional design theories and methods, assessment and new technology skills, design courses in online teaching and learning, digital visual app, Web app for instruction, technology integration field work, and special topics such as gamification, robotics, or any new topics needed. Courses from other colleges on campus, approved by the advisory committee, can also be included and counted for the degree.
Transfer from Master's Program (24 credits maximum)
Approved by the chair and advisory committee
Dissertation: (minimum of 12 credits credits)
The primary focus of the Doctor of Philosophy program is on research skills. The dissertation must represent an original and independent investigation that reflects a contribution to knowledge. The dissertation must also reflect mastery of research skills and an ability to select a significant problem for investigation. To meet the requirements of the degree, students must pass:
- Proposal defense
- Dissertation defense
Ongoing activities/to-do list:
- Mid-program review (at the second year of your doc studies)
- Comprehensive exam (at the completion of course credits)
- Conference activities (start as early as possible, work with your professor)
- Research and journal publications (start as early as possible, work with your professor)
- Instructional design field activities
Please see the University tuition and fee rates for information regarding costs and financial aid.
Graduate assistantships are available through various departments in the College of Education & Human Development. Prospective students who indicate their interest in a graduate assistantship will be interviewed for one of multiple positions within the department following their application.
Looking for a Graduate Assistantship?
The College of Education & Human Development has a limited number of Graduate Assistantships for full-time students admitted to masters or doctoral programs.
World-Class Education and Human Development
The College is a recognized leader in guiding, shaping, and mentoring high-performing education professionals who will go forth with a lifelong love of learning and with the skills essential for thriving in a global, knowledge-based economy. The U.S. News and World Report ranks the College of Education and Human Development's graduate programs top 100 in the nation. The online graduate programs are ranked 88th in the nation.