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Curriculum, Instruction, & Technology in Education (CITE)
Doctor in Education (Ed.D) Program in Math or Science Education

Program Description:

The Doctoral Program in Mathematics or Science Education at Temple University seeks to attract into advanced graduate study individuals with a clear interest in the advancement of knowledge and practice in mathematics or science education. The CITE Ed.D. Program aims to prepare high-quality professionals to take on a variety of roles in mathematics and science education. Currently, there is a shortage of mathematics and science teachers, specialists, and researchers. Persons of color and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Coursework emphasizes a broad knowledge of critical lines of inquiry in mathematics or science education and the development of research and analytic skills. It also provides students the opportunity to specialize in a variety of areas. Research opportunities include working alongside prominent faculty on federally funded projects, exposure and presentations at regional and national conferences, and co-authoring papers for publication in top-tiered journals. Thus, practice and research will be blended in a program that promotes both teaching and learning.

Admissions Requirements:

The program admits individuals from a variety of backgrounds. Strong content knowledge in mathematics, science or a related field is expected. Teaching experience in formal and/or informal settings is strongly recommended, as appropriate to the applicant’s career goals. Because of our strategic location in North Philadelphia, the program strongly encourages applications from candidates with a demonstrated commitment to issues of teaching, learning, and schooling in urban contexts.

Applications are reviewed for fall admission only.  The deadline is January 5 for University fellowship consideration and February 1 for all applications.   Graduate assistantships and research assistants are available.

Application materials should include the following:

1) Application

2) $50.00 application fee

3) Official transcripts of all prior work (minimum undergraduate GPA is 3.0, although applicants may be admitted provisionally if other compelling evidence of academic potential is presented)

4) Standardized test scores: The GRE is required of all candidates (minimum score 40th percentile; scores should be less than 5 years old)

5) Three letters of recommendation:  References should be obtained from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic and/or professional achievements and who can comment on the applicant’s aptitude for doctoral study.

6) Personal Statement: The personal statement should be written in autobiographical style and should explain your reasons for pursuing a doctoral degree in Mathematics or Science Education. The statement should address the following questions:

  • How have your personal, academic, and professional experiences shaped your research interests, and how might a doctoral program in Mathematics or Science Education help you explore those interests?
  • What academic/professional goals would the program help you to achieve following graduation?
  • How does the doctoral program at Temple fit your individual interests, needs, and future goals (including the faculty member whose research best matches your own interests)?

The personal statement is an important factor in the admissions process. Candidates should present a thorough and thoughtful explanation of their reasons for pursuing a doctoral degree and the match between their goals and professional interests and program offerings at Temple.

7) Writing sample: Applicants should provide a sample of academic or professional writing.  Examples of writing that demonstrate an applicant’s analytic skills are particularly helpful in assessing candidate’s aptitude for doctoral study.

8) Interviews: Interviews are recommended. Program faculty will contact applicants regarding interviews beginning in February of 2008.

Program Requirements

Successful completion of the Ed.D. in Math or Science program in CITE consists of a minimum of 48 semester hours beyond the Master’s degree: 15 semester hours Core Education courses; 12 semester hours Department Courses; and 21 semester hours Specialization Courses. In order to make successful progress in the program, doctoral students must complete a minimum of 12 semester hours per year. Prior to candidacy, the student must pass a qualifying doctoral comprehensive examination, prepare and pass a dissertation proposal hearing, exhibit scholarship related to important issues in teaching and learning mathematics or science, and an oral examination of the dissertation. 

Contact Information

Dr. Jacqueline Leonard
jacqueline.leonard@temple.edu
(215) 204-8042

Curriculum, Instruction, & Technology in Education
College of Education
Temple University
1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19122

phone: (215) 204-2117/8377