Mathematics Education (PhD)
This degree is part of the Mathematics Education Program housed in the Department of Learning, Teaching and Curriculum.
The PhD program in mathematics education prepares students to be researchers, leaders, and change makers in educational systems in this country and abroad. Our program is inspired by a vision of empowering mathematics teachers and learners in schools and building long-term partnerships with practitioners to realize this vision. Students enrolled in our doctoral program apprentice with faculty on research and teaching projects that reflect a long-term commitment to making a difference, informed by innovations in teaching and learning and the responsible use of research. Coursework focuses on scholarship in learning, teaching, and curriculum, with attention to problems of practice, issues of equity in education and society, and diverse perspectives throughout. Doctoral study is a challenging undertaking and so we aim to create a caring, cohesive community of mathematics educators that supports each and every person to succeed. Our program is campus-based and students are expected to be enrolled full time. There is no online option for a Ph.D., but the department does offer an online Ed.D.
Students in our doctoral program can participate in the MERDS student group (Mathematics Education Research and Doctoral Studies). Students graduating from our doctoral program are prepared for a variety of positions as university-based faculty, researchers, teacher educators, program designers, and school leaders.
Degree Requirements
The PhD program in mathematics education is designed to require about four years of study, which consists of a minimum of 72 hours of coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree (this can include Master’s credits transferred in), participation in a variety of research and teaching internships, and the design and implementation of a dissertation study focused on original research.
A sample plan of study can be found in the MU Mathematics Education Ph.D. Program: Faculty and Student Handbook.
Apply
For more information
For information about the program, including what materials to submit and how to submit them, please email:
Caitlin Rosbach
Student Support Services rosbachc@missouri.eduAdmission Requirements
You must meet two sets of minimum qualifications in order to be considered for admission:
How to Apply
In addition to completing the Graduate Studies application, you must submit the following materials to the Department of Learning, Teaching and Curriculum:
- Unofficial transcript
- Statement of Purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- TOEFL scores (international students only)
Your application materials will be reviewed by a faculty committee and you will be contacted when a decision is made. For priority consideration, please apply by Nov. 1. However, we accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the spring, and if positions remain in our program, we continue to admit students.