Evaluation studies doctorate (Ph.D.) track

in educational policy and administration

The doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree with a program emphasis in evaluation studies (ES), administered by the Graduate School and offered by the Department of Educational Policy and Administration (EdPA), provides an opportunity for intensive study of the techniques and process of evaluation and policy research and of the social and political context within which program evaluation occurs.

Graduates leave with a portfolio filled with evidence of their expertise with the tools of the evaluation trade—qualitative and quantitative inquiry methods, communication skills, and computer database analysis experience. Evaluation knowledge and skills are gleaned not only from time in the classroom but also from internships and collaboration with evaluation professionals in real-world settings. Evaluation studies students have access to some of the best evaluators in the field. One of the program's faculty members has received the American Evaluation Association's Myrdahl Award for Evaluation Practice. Other faculty members and regular speakers have written books on their areas of expertise. The Minnesota Evaluation Studies Institute, held each spring the the Twin Cities and sponsored by the Department of Educational Policy and Administration, provides students with an opportunity to learn and reflect on relevant issues in evaluation with other national experts and practitioners.

Who enrolls in this program?

Students enrolled in ES are the future leaders, university faculty members, and evaluators in the field of evaluation studies. Students in the program will gain expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methods and practical experience in the conduct of program evaluation and policy studies. The program is selective and is limited to 10 students per year. All new students begin the program in the fall semester.

Admission requirements

What will my program look like?

The Ph.D. requires that students enrolled under the semester system take at least 59 credits of coursework. With adviser’s approval, students who already have a master's degree can transfer up to 18 semester credits toward their Ph.D. In addition, 24 semester thesis credits are required for the dissertation. Typically, a course that meets once a week throughout the semester is three credits. Students may complete the coursework on either a full-time or part-time basis.

Curriculum

How long will my Ph.D. program take?

Attending full-time, including summers, students often can complete the required coursework in 2 to 2½ years, at which time they complete preliminary written and oral examinations. Many are able to complete their dissertation in another 1 to 2 years. Upon completion of their dissertation, students take a final oral examination. Doctoral students must complete all their requirements and receive their degree within five calendar years after passing their preliminary oral examination.

General information about the doctor of philosophy degree
Graduate School Catalog

Revised October 2006