Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction – Specialization in Teacher Education and Curriculum Studies (Early Childhood Education Focus)

Early Childhood Education

Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction – Specialization in Teacher Education and Curriculum Studies (Early Childhood Education Focus)

This program is designed for students who wish to: be professors who will prepare early childhood professionals; conduct research on issues impacting policy and practice; and/or work for an agency, institution, or organization that focusses on young children and families.

You'll work closely with faculty to become familiar with scholarship in the field, undertake mentored and independent research, and become part of the wider community of scholars.

The program emphasizes quality care and education across diverse cultures and contexts for birth to age 8; curriculum leadership; the value of play; and early childhood teacher education.

  • Application Deadlines
    Starting SemesterDeadline
    Fall Jan 15
    Spring Sep 15
    December 1 is the priority funding deadline for the Dean’s Fellowship and University Graduate School diversity fellowships. Eligible applicants will automatically be considered for fellowships – no separate application is necessary.
    International students are encouraged to apply early to allow extra time for their materials to arrive.
  • Admissions Requirements

    In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Graduate Studies Office will accept unofficial transcripts and self-reported test scores for admission reviews. Any admission made with these documents would be conditioned on receipt of official documents, which should be provided as soon as possible.

    Note: If you are currently enrolled or have applied in the past year, you should qualify for an application fee waiver. Click here for criteria and how to obtain the waiver.

    1. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
    2. Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 out of 4.00
    3. Completed online application that includes:
      • Personal statement
      • Resume (required from international students only)
      • Two letters of recommendation
      • GRE scores
      • Minimum 79 TOEFL score or minimum 6.5 IELTS score (international students only)

    Learn more about how to apply

  • Program Requirements
  • Tuition and Fees

    Per credit hour

    ResidencyTuition*
    IN Resident$450.93
    Non-resident$1515.17

    *Does not include fees, which will vary depending on the number of credits enrolled. Find more information and calculate your expected costs at Student Central.

  • Funding
    • Learn about the variety of fellowships and assistantships available to graduate students.
    • Visit Student Central for information about financial assistance.
    • Consult your employer about the availability of tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance programs.
    • Active duty military, veterans, and military families should visit the Center for Veteran and Military Students to take full advantage of available financial assistance and educational benefits.
  • Frequently Asked Questions

    Why earn your doctorate at the IU School of Education? Ph.D. or Ed.D.—which is right for you? Get answers to these questions and more.

    Read the FAQ

New Doctoral Minor

Interested in studying race and racism within educational contexts? Check out our new interdepartmental Minor in Race and Racism in Education, open to doctoral students from across IU.

Learn more
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Assistant Professor

Research Areas:
Early Childhood Education and Curriculum Studies
Email:
djcastne@iu.edu
Phone:
(812) 856-8188
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Professor

Research Areas:
Professional well-being; teacher beliefs and practices across cultures and contexts; infant toddler care and education
Email:
mmcmulle@indiana.edu
Phone:
(812) 856-8393

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