best international education phd programs

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

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The Harvard Ph.D. in Education trains cutting-edge researchers who work across disciplines to generate knowledge and translate discoveries into transformative policy and practice.

Offered jointly by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the Ph.D. in Education provides you with full access to the extraordinary resources of Harvard University and prepares you to assume meaningful roles as university faculty, researchers, senior-level education leaders, and policymakers.

As a Ph.D. candidate, you will collaborate with scholars across all Harvard graduate schools on original interdisciplinary research. In the process, you will help forge new fields of inquiry that will impact the way we teach and learn. The program’s required coursework will develop your knowledge of education and your expertise in a range of quantitative and qualitative methods needed to conduct high-quality research. Guided by the goal of making a transformative impact on education research, policy, and practice, you will focus on independent research in various domains, including human development, learning and teaching, policy analysis and evaluation, institutions and society, and instructional practice.   

Curriculum Information

The Ph.D. in Education requires five years of full-time study to complete. You will choose your individual coursework and design your original research in close consultation with your HGSE faculty adviser and dissertation committee. The requirements listed below include the three Ph.D. concentrations: Culture, Institutions, and Society; Education Policy and Program Evaluation; and Human Development, Learning and Teaching . 

We invite you to review an example course list, which is provided in two formats — one as the full list by course number and one by broad course category . These lists are subject to modification. 

Ph.D. Concentrations and Examples

Summary of Ph.D. Program

Doctoral Colloquia  In year one and two you are required to attend. The colloquia convenes weekly and features presentations of work-in-progress and completed work by Harvard faculty, faculty and researchers from outside Harvard, and Harvard doctoral students. Ph.D. students present once in the colloquia over the course of their career.

Research Apprenticeship The Research Apprenticeship is designed to provide ongoing training and mentoring to develop your research skills throughout the entire program.

Teaching Fellowships The Teaching Fellowship is an opportunity to enhance students' teaching skills, promote learning consolidation, and provide opportunities to collaborate with faculty on pedagogical development.

Comprehensive Exams  The Written Exam (year 2, spring) tests you on both general and concentration-specific knowledge. The Oral Exam (year 3, fall/winter) tests your command of your chosen field of study and your ability to design, develop, and implement an original research project.

Dissertation  Based on your original research, the dissertation process consists of three parts: the Dissertation Proposal, the writing, and an oral defense before the members of your dissertation committee.

Culture, Institutions, and Society (CIS) Concentration

In CIS, you will examine the broader cultural, institutional, organizational, and social contexts relevant to education across the lifespan. What is the value and purpose of education? How do cultural, institutional, and social factors shape educational processes and outcomes? How effective are social movements and community action in education reform? How do we measure stratification and institutional inequality? In CIS, your work will be informed by theories and methods from sociology, history, political science, organizational behavior and management, philosophy, and anthropology. You can examine contexts as diverse as classrooms, families, neighborhoods, schools, colleges and universities, religious institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, and more.

Education Policy and Program Evaluation (EPPE) Concentration

In EPPE, you will research the design, implementation, and evaluation of education policy affecting early childhood, K–12, and postsecondary education in the U.S. and internationally. You will evaluate and assess individual programs and policies related to critical issues like access to education, teacher effectiveness, school finance, testing and accountability systems, school choice, financial aid, college enrollment and persistence, and more. Your work will be informed by theories and methods from economics, political science, public policy, and sociology, history, philosophy, and statistics. This concentration shares some themes with CIS, but your work with EPPE will focus on public policy and large-scale reforms.

Human Development, Learning and Teaching (HDLT) Concentration

In HDLT, you will work to advance the role of scientific research in education policy, reform, and practice. New discoveries in the science of learning and development — the integration of biological, cognitive, and social processes; the relationships between technology and learning; or the factors that influence individual variations in learning — are transforming the practice of teaching and learning in both formal and informal settings. Whether studying behavioral, cognitive, or social-emotional development in children or the design of learning technologies to maximize understanding, you will gain a strong background in human development, the science of learning, and sociocultural factors that explain variation in learning and developmental pathways. Your research will be informed by theories and methods from psychology, cognitive science, sociology and linguistics, philosophy, the biological sciences and mathematics, and organizational behavior.

Program Faculty

The most remarkable thing about the Ph.D. in Education is open access to faculty from all Harvard graduate and professional schools, including the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Harvard Kennedy School, the Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and the Harvard School of Public Health. Learn about the full Ph.D. Faculty.

Jarvis R. Givens

Jarvis Givens studies the history of American education, African American history, and the relationship between race and power in schools.

Paul L. Harris

Paul Harris is interested in the early development of cognition, emotion, and imagination in children.

Meira Levinson

Meira Levinson is a normative political philosopher who works at the intersection of civic education, youth empowerment, racial justice, and educational ethics. 

Luke W. Miratrix

Luke Miratrix is a statistician who explores how to best use modern statistical methods in applied social science contexts.

Eric Taylor

Eric Taylor studies the economics of education, with a particular interest in employer-employee interactions between schools and teachers — hiring and firing decisions, job design, training, and performance evaluation.

Paola Uccelli

Paola Ucelli studies socio-cultural and individual differences in the language development of multilingual and monolingual students.

View Ph.D. Faculty

Dissertations.

The following is a complete listing of successful Ph.D. in Education dissertations to-date. Dissertations from November 2014 onward are publicly available in the Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH) , the online repository for Harvard scholarship.

• 2022 Graduate Dissertations (265 KB pdf)
• 2021 Graduate Dissertations (177 KB pdf)
• 2020 Graduate Dissertations (121 KB pdf)
• 2019 Graduate Dissertations (68.3 KB pdf)

Student Directory

An opt-in listing of current Ph.D. students with information about their interests, research, personal web pages, and contact information:

Doctor of Philosophy in Education Student Directory

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Doctor of Philosophy in Education experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

The Human Element of Data and AI

Gahyun Callie Sung's journey to HGSE and the LIT Lab is reflected in her research into data and using AI to improve student outcomes

Improving the Teacher Workforce

With her research work, doctoral marshal Mary Laski, Ph.D.'24, is trying to make teaching in K–12 schools more sustainable and attractive

Comparative and International Education PhD

Doctor of philosophy in comparative and international education.

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Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2024, Summer 2024, and Fall 2024 terms.

Doctor of Philosophy

• Points/Credits: 75
• Entry Terms: Fall

Application Deadlines

Select programs remain open beyond our standard application deadlines , such as those with an extended deadline or those that are rolling (open until June or July). If your program is rolling or has an extended deadline indicated above, applications are reviewed as they are received and on a space-available basis. We recommend you complete your application as soon as possible as these programs can close earlier if full capacity has been met.

Application Requirements

Additional information.

• Informational meeting recommended
• Please visit program website for more information

Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2023-2024)

Displaying catalog information for the Fall 2023, Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 terms.

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Comparative and International Education (CIE – code: COMP)

Check the Course Planning sheet in the Student Handbook for the most recent degree requirements.

Coursework (at least 75 graduate level points, including up to 30 transferred credits)

Ph.D. coursework falls into four broad areas:

Area 1: Core Courses (9 credits)

• ITSF 6580: Advanced Seminar in Comparative Education
• ITSF 6581: Advanced Seminar in International Educational Development
• Choose 1 other ITSF course (approved by advisor)

Area 2: Concentration in an Academic Discipline (at least 30 credits)

• Courses counting towards the concentration must be advisor-approved.
• Many of these courses can be taken at Columbia’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).
• This area may include discipline-based research methods (note that Ph.D. students must have at least 12 credits of research methods courses).
• In some cases, transferred credits may be applied in this area.

Area 3: Comparative Education/Transcultural/Area Studies (at least 18 credits)

• The majority of these courses will come from the ITS department.
• This area may include research methods (note that Ph.D. students must have at least 12 credits of research methods courses).
• Transferred credits may be applied in this area.

Area 4: Non-Major Foundations/Electives (at least 18 credits)

• This includes courses taken outside the primary program of study.

Only graduate-level language courses at an advanced level of proficiency count towards the degree. These require approval from your advisor and the Registrar. No more than 6 credits of language courses can be used towards a graduate degree.

Courses Outside of TC:

Please see the TC Catalog for information about taking courses through the Inter-University Doctoral Consortium.

Transfer credit:

A maximum of 30 credits may be transferred from other accredited institutions. Only graduate courses which have been (1) completed with grades of B or higher, (2) submitted on an official transcript from a regionally accredited institution, (3) granted/assigned graduate credit on the transcript of that institution, and (4) completed prior to enrollment at Teachers College may be considered for transfer credit. Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the faculty advisor and according to College policy. After registering for the first semester, students should obtain and fill out an Advanced Standing Review (ASR) application from the Office of the Registrar and return it to the Office of the Registrar. Transcripts will be evaluated and sent to the International and Comparative Education Program Assistant, who will then contact the student with further instructions. The entire process can take several months.

Ph.D. students must complete all degree requirements in no more than seven years. Those with 30 points of advanced standing prior to doctoral admission are to complete requirements within six years.

Departmental certification examination

Students complete their certification exam (AM) by the end of their first year in the program. The exam is integrated with the Advanced Seminar and includes two parts: one completed in the fall semester and one completed in the spring. Students must be authorized by the Office of Doctoral Studies (ODS) to take this exam; please see advisor for more details. The certification exam may be attempted twice. More information is available on the “Ed.D/Ph.D Policies and Procedures” page.

Specialization examination

Each discipline has different examination requirements. Students must register for the exam with ODS during the first week of the semester and should consult the main advisor for more information.

Defense of a dissertation proposal

The dissertation proposal defense requires two readers. The advisor/sponsor is the first reader, and students are responsible for finding a second reader appropriate for their concentration.

Students should register for ITSF 7500 during the semester of the proposal hearing. Please note that students are liable for dissertation advisement fees (ITSF 8900) in every semester following registration for ITSF 7500 or following the term in which the dissertation proposal is approved, whichever comes first.

Students are responsible for making arrangements with the two readers for the proposal hearing. Students should fill out the “Dissertation Proposal Hearing Report,” available from the ODS website. After a successful hearing, this form needs to be signed by both readers and the department chair. A copy should be submitted to the International and Comparative Education Program office and the original should be turned into ODS.

After a successful proposal hearing, students must submit an application to TC’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) for the research project. Please refer to the TC IRB website for more information ( https://www.tc.columbia.edu/institutional-review-board/ ). Once approved, copies of the IRB approval letter must be filed with the International and Comparative Education program office and ODS.

Foreign Language Examinations

Ph.D. students are required to pass two proficiency examinations in foreign languages. Examinations are usually arranged through the appropriate language department at Columbia University.

One of these examinations may be replaced by receiving a passing grade for two of the following statistics courses offered at TC: HUDM 4122 (Probability and Statistical Inference), HUDM 5122 (Applied Regression Analysis), HUDM 5123 (Experimental Design).

Languages to be used must be listed on the Program Plan.

Program Plan

Download the documents, "Instructions for Completing the Ph.D. Course Program Plan" and "Ph.D. Course Program Plan Form" from the ODS website. Students should complete the Program Plan and obtain the advisor's signature on the form. This should be done by the time of the proposal hearing.

M.Phil. Certification

Once students have 1) completed all required coursework, 2) passed the department exam, the specialization exam, and the proposal hearing, 3) passed the foreign language examinations, 4) received IRB approval for the dissertation research, and 5) submitted the approved Program Plan, students are eligible for M.Phil certification. This process must be completed through the International and Comparative Education program office with the assistance of the International and Comparative Education Program Assistant.

Fieldwork Outside of the United States

Students who are conducting fieldwork outside of the United States may register for ITSF 6200 for one or two semesters. This is a 0-credit course. If this course will be taken, it should be included in the Program Plan.

Preparation and defense of a research dissertation

After taking ITSF 7500, all Ph.D. candidates are required to continuously register for ITSF 8900 and pay a fee in the term in which the dissertation is defended. Students who are not going to receive advisement may submit a “Personal Exemption for Dissertation Advisement” to ODS. 

Students may also refer to the document "General Instructions for the Preparation of Dissertations for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy" downloadable from the ODS website for more information on dissertation preparation.

Consult the Office of Doctoral Studies for requirements on continuous enrollment.

For more information, review the full International and Comparative Education Student Handbook here .

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Program Director : Garnett Russell, Associate Professor of International & Comparative Education

Teachers College, Columbia University 374 Grace Dodge Hall

Contact Person: Michelle Guo, Program Assistant

Phone: 212-678-3184 Fax: 212-678-8237

Email: iceinfo@tc.columbia.edu

International Education Graduate Programs in America

1-18 of 18 results

Harvard Graduate School of Education

• Cambridge, MA ·
• Harvard University ·
• Graduate School
• · Rating 4.69 out of 5   13 reviews

Harvard University ,

Graduate School ,

CAMBRIDGE, MA ,

13 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says My undergraduate is the only institution outside of Asia offering a terminal degree in Classical Chinese Dance: an exquisite and comprehensive dance form passed down from ancient China. As a member... .

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Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College

• Nashville, TN ·
• Vanderbilt University ·
• · Rating 4.08 out of 5   24 reviews

Vanderbilt University ,

NASHVILLE, TN ,

24 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Online program. Some excellent professors and some not so great. Interesting material that is also evidence-based. Too much emphasis on writing. Program is still new so they change program... .

Read 24 reviews.

Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development

• New York, NY ·
• New York University ·
• · Rating 4.32 out of 5   28 reviews

New York University ,

NEW YORK, NY ,

28 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says So far I’m almost a year into NYU Steinhardt’s online speech program and I love it! For those who don’t mind online learning and can time manage, this is for you. It gives me more flexibility and... .

Read 28 reviews.

American University

• Graduate School ·
• WASHINGTON, DC
• · Rating 4.48 out of 5   152

Lehigh University

• BETHLEHEM, PA
• · Rating 4.45 out of 5   20

School of Education - American University

• American University ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   5

Lynch School of Education

• Chestnut Hill, MA ·
• Boston College ·
• · Rating 4.25 out of 5   4 reviews

Boston College ,

CHESTNUT HILL, MA ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am preparing to start my studies in this program. As of now, all staff has made this process extremely stress free and easy. My classes have been planned out for my entire time in the program. This... .

Read 4 reviews.

Lehigh University Graduate College of Education

• Bethlehem, PA ·
• Lehigh University ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Blue checkmark.

Lehigh University ,

BETHLEHEM, PA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The best part of my experience is that it is online and to apply we did not need to complete an essay. The teachers provide a lot of guidance and assistance. The Lehigh University Graduate PACE... .

Read 1 reviews.

Graduate School of Education & Human Development - George Washington University

• Washington, DC ·
• George Washington University ·
• · Rating 4.42 out of 5   12 reviews

George Washington University ,

WASHINGTON, DC ,

12 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The Master's in School Counseling program at The George Washington University (GWU) is fast-paced, well-structured, and rigorous. Among the positive aspects that drew me to this program include the... .

Read 12 reviews.

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Indiana University School of Education

• Bloomington, IN ·
• Indiana University - Bloomington ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Indiana University - Bloomington ,

BLOOMINGTON, IN ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Doctoral student says I am in the last year of my doctoral program. The coursework can be challenging and intense, but the professors are supportive. In the end of the program, an IU graduate can feel comfortable leading... .

Read 2 reviews.

• · Rating 5 out of 5   5 reviews

American University ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am just starting my Education Policy and Leadership program this August. I am incredibly excited and nervous to start because I hope this is the path I'm meant to be on. I am eager to learn new... .

Read 5 reviews.

Loyola University Chicago College of Arts and Sciences

• Chicago, IL ·
• Loyola University Chicago ·

Loyola University Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Loyola was such a great place to earn my M.Ed Higher Education degree. The faculty were so dedicated to our development and success. The two campuses were my homes away from home, and the staff... .

College of Education - Sam Houston State University

• Huntsville, TX ·
• Sam Houston State University ·

Sam Houston State University ,

HUNTSVILLE, TX ,

Niagara University College of Education

• Niagara University, NY ·
• Niagara University ·

Niagara University ,

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, NY ,

Featured Review: Niche User says The environment, the students, and the professors at Niagara University all create such a welcoming place especially to start as a freshmen in college. They have so many helpful resources, with many... .

School of Education - Avila University

• Kansas City, MO ·
• Avila University ·

Avila University ,

KANSAS CITY, MO ,

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Endicott College

• Beverly, MA ·
• · Rating 4.47 out of 5   17 reviews

BEVERLY, MA ,

17 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Everyone has been super helpful so far at Endicott! The people have been the best part! While reaching out via emails for information, or troubleshooting problems, everyone has been willing to help... .

Read 17 reviews.

School of Education - American International College

• Springfield, MA ·
• American International College ·

American International College ,

SPRINGFIELD, MA ,

Arizona State University - Online

• Scottsdale, AZ ·
• · Rating 4.73 out of 5   156 reviews

SCOTTSDALE, AZ ,

156 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am apart of the Crime Analyst MS program. I am constantly being challenged and introduced to new data skills. The best part of my program is being able to work a full time job and still having the... .

Read 156 reviews.

Teachers College at Columbia University

• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   106 reviews

106 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Although it was highly selective to be admitted, I made it a point to visit with a professor who shared my research interest. I highly recommend staying in the dorms. They were remodeled them in 2004 and are beautiful, but more importantly very safe because you can actually move from your dorm building right in to the main... The security is outstanding, and I never felt afraid. It is good to know that Teachers College Columbia University is ranked number one out of all education graduate schools, according to US news. The diploma, you ultimately receive states Columbia University. University is very big on diversity almost to the breaking point and this is the only negative I can think of. In general, I would highly recommend this ivy league university .

Read 106 reviews.

Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs

• Miami, FL ·
• Florida International University ·
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   10 reviews

Florida International University ,

MIAMI, FL ,

10 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I was just recently accepted to FIU for a masters program in Public Administration. I am looking forward to pursing this major at this institution. My overall experience with staff and current... .

Read 10 reviews.

SIT Graduate Institute

• Brattleboro, VT ·
• · Rating 4.18 out of 5   40 reviews

BRATTLEBORO, VT ,

40 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The SIT Graduate experience has been fantastic. The administration guides you through the application and entrance procedures, making the experience easy and welcoming. The diversity in programs that... .

Read 40 reviews.

• · Rating 5 out of 5   1

Florida International University

• · Rating 4.65 out of 5   299
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   10

Showing results 1 through 18 of 18

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Master's Programs

You are here, international comparative education (ice).

The International Comparative Education (ICE) concentration is a multidisciplinary, international, cross-national program that places educational problems into a comparative framework.

The program

Master’s program.

This 12-month, full-time residential course of study combines an interdisciplinary overview of major issues in international and comparative education, development, and policy with specialized coursework in students’ areas of interest. The program’s two tracks—International Comparative Education (ICE) and International Education Policy Analysis (IEP)—focus on rigorous research, and culminate in a publishable-quality master’s paper. Flexibility and small cohort size are hallmarks of the program.

Learn more about program content

Doctoral program

The concentration in International Comparative Education also offers a doctoral degree within the Social Sciences, Humanities, and Interdisciplinary Policy Studies in Education (SHIPS) academic area. Students have the option of pursuing a concurrent master’s degree and/or a PhD minor. For general information on the doctoral specialization in ICE, visit this PhD program page . For ICE doctoral program requirements, visit the Doctoral Degree Handbook . 

International Comparative Education at Stanford

ICE at Stanford affords students the opportunity to explore broadly, build community, and connect with career resources.

Why Stanford?

Stanford is known for its interdisciplinarity. Both the ICE PhD and ICE and IEPA MA programs allow students the flexibility to take courses outside of the GSE, depending on their interests and research goals. ICE students take courses at the business, law, and engineering schools, as well as in humanities and sciences. Access to top-notch faculty, and the rigor of Stanford academics are also reasons students choose ICE.

ICE students come from around the U.S. and the world. They bring a wide variety of perspectives and experiences, but share a passion for education and a desire to improve quality and accessibility for all learners. ICE students are curious, ambitious, and independent, while also enjoying the collaborative nature of small cohort learning. 

Learn more about ICE students and alumni

After you graduate

Our graduates enjoy strong job placement opportunities, and go on to become leaders in a wide range of industries. As many as 30 percent of ICE and IEPA master’s graduates go on to pursue doctoral programs. Most PhD graduates pursue careers in academia. Stanford offers strong career support to students and alumni, both through GSE EdCareers and Stanford Career Education .  

Learn more about careers in ICE

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Our community

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In the news

What you need to know

Admission requirements.

To learn more about requirements for admission, please visit the Application Requirements page .

Financing your education

To learn more about the cost of the program and options for financial support, please visit Financing Your Master’s Degree on the admissions website.

Contact admissions

For admissions webinars and to connect with the admission office, see our  Connect and Visit page .

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Ph.D. in Education - Comparative and International Education Concentration

Make an impact on a global scale.

The Comparative and International Education PhD concentration examines education in global contexts. Education is viewed as a way to develop the capabilities of individuals, communities, nations, and the world, and to build institutions that support educational improvement and the common good. Faculty research focuses on issues of migration, forced displacement and refugees, under-developed capacities of historically marginalized groups, education for global competence and global citizenship, international higher and K-12 education, and the complexities of action at local, nation, and global levels.

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International Perspectives Engage in active learning opportunities to confront challenges in education globally through linkages with international communities within and outside the United States.

Hands-On Experiential Learning Take part in our larger inclusive cross-disciplinary team as well as a more focused research project. You’ll bring your experience in education to the design, development, data collection, and analyses of a research project.

Principles of Research Gain a deeper understanding of designing and conducting ethical and culturally relevant research with human subjects and considering the social impact of the work.

The GW Advantage

As a Carnegie R1 institution (very high research activity), the George Washington University is home to world-class faculty that are leading cutting-edge research, along with diverse research labs, cross-collaborative initiatives between schools and local organizations, and unparalleled educational and employment opportunities.

Benefit by examining education reform in the policymaking capital of the world, plus gain a wealth of hands-on experiential learning opportunities at nearby diverse school settings.

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 Program at a Glance

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education, Comparative and International Education Concentration

course delivery:

Main Campus

Program entry:

The aims of the PhD are to:

•  Use multiple modes of scholarly inquiry to conduct rigorous research and develop new theory related to problems that require the integration of multiple disciplines and fields of study, in which education and/or human development play a major role.
• Build theoretical and conceptual foundations of key fields of study within the larger domain of education and human development.
• Contribute to the improvement of policy and practice.
• Create “research hubs” of recognized experts and communities of learners within GSEHD and the George Washington University (GW).
• Promote research in partnership with other organizations (e.g., think tanks, research institutes, both in the U.S. and abroad).
• Attract expertise and funding to GSEHD and GW.
• Attract and retain exceptional students.
• Create a highly valued educational experience at GSEHD through innovation, increased collaboration, and research.
• To what extent does storytelling enable young people with refugee and immigrant experiences to navigate their sense of self and community?
• How are U.S. higher education institutions responding to increasingly restrictive anti-migration policies and a growing wave of xenophobic activity?
• Does student and teacher participation in international education programs lead to positive youth, racial, and intercultural identity development?
• How have education for sustainable development policies been advanced at regional and national levels?
• How does civic education vary in schools with more and less cosmopolitan-oriented student bodies?
• Guide to Applying
• Admission Requirements
• Application Deadlines

GSEHD’s Office of Admissions invites you to apply for a spot in our program. Please review the following admission and financial information.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Review our step-by-step guide to applying to GSEHD >

To learn more about the program, admission process, and upcoming events, please connect with the GSEHD Admissions Team at [email protected] or 202-994-9283.

To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the online application form as well as the following required supporting documents. There is no application fee.

• Prerequisite: Master’s degree in a field relevant to teaching and learning
• Curriculum Vitae
• Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
• Statement of Purpose: An essay of 1200 words or less, through which the candidate clearly identifies the purpose in undertaking cross-disciplinary graduate study in teaching and learning that includes: (a) rationale for seeking a Ph.D. in Comparative and International Education; (b) articulation of academic objectives, personal research interests and how those align with what Washington, DC, GW as an institution, GSEHD as an education school offers, how the applicant feels they will benefit from training with the faculty in the program and across the university; and (c) how the applicant’s background and related qualifications prepared for this work and align with long-term goals.
• 3 Letters of Recommendation , with one preferred from a professor in the applicant’s Master’s degree program
• Interview with Faculty: Interviews may be required. Applicants should be prepared to discuss the alignment of their research interests with those of the program faculty.
• Writing Sample: Candidates are required to submit a current writing sample. The sample should reflect the candidate’s abilities to articulate complex ideas and to utilize evidence in support of his/her arguments. The writing sample should also provide evidence of the candidate’s research skills and engagement with scholarship.

Please note: The GRE is not required.

*Additional application requirements may exist for international applicants .

The deadline for Fall 2024 has passed, but applications may be accepted on a case-by-case basis . For more information or to inquire about the next admissions cycle, contact the GSEHD Admissions Team at [email protected] or 202-994-9283. We encourage you to apply as early as possible. 

 Tuition & Financial Aid

• Tuition Overview

We know embarking upon graduate school is a big decision - due in part to the costs of attending. At GW, we understand the time and thought behind making graduate school work for you. Please take a moment to learn more about the options and opportunities available to help fund your graduate education.

Learn more about scholarships, grants & financial aid    

Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour, unless otherwise noted. Rates vary by program and location.

The tuition rate for the PhD in Education - Comparative and International Education Concentration program is $1,905 per credit hour . This program requires 60 credits .

Please note: Additional fees may apply for international students, late fees, etc. Current tuition rates may be updated during the year.

*Summer 2024, Fall 2024 and Spring 2025

View the current fee chart    

Scholarships are available to eligible admitted students. Review eligibility requirements and learn more about funding your education >

My academic pursuit has become clearer: To ensure equitable and quality education for children in urban slums and children with refugee backgrounds. Such pursuit and endeavor of mine were driven by my advisor, faculty members, and colleagues/classmates, who are my dream team continuing to motivate me to stride forward with confidence, perseverance, and will.

InJung Cho Current Student, PhD in Education, Comparative and International Education Concentration

 Career Outlook

A PhD in Education with a concentration in Comparative and International Education opens up various career opportunities in the field of education, research, policy analysis, and international development.

Examples of potential career paths include:

• University Professor/Researcher: Become a professor, researcher, or lecturer at a university, conducting research, teaching, and contributing to the academic community.
• Education Policy Analyst/Advisor: Policy analysts and advisors may work for government agencies, think tanks, or international organizations to inform and shape education policies. Policy analysts research and evaluate education policies at the local, national, or international level.
• Researcher for NGOs and International Organizations: Work for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or international bodies focusing on education-related research and projects. This could involve addressing global education challenges, promoting access to quality education, and advocating for policy changes.
• International Education Consultant: Provide insights, recommendations, and strategies for improving educational systems on a global scale to organizations, schools, or governments.
• Curriculum Developer: Design educational curricula and culturally responsive learning materials that considers international perspectives and best practices.
• Global Education Program Manager: Manage and coordinate international education programs for schools, universities, or organizations. This role may involve overseeing study abroad programs, exchange initiatives, or collaborative projects with institutions from different countries.
• Cross-Cultural Training Specialist: Assist individuals or organizations in navigating cross-cultural challenges, especially in the context of education. This role may be beneficial for international schools, businesses, or organizations working in diverse environments.
• Education Diplomacy: Engage in diplomatic efforts related to education on an international scale. This could involve representing a country's educational interests in diplomatic negotiations, fostering collaborations, and participating in international forums.

Comparative and International Education (PhD) Faculty

Associate Professor, Educational Research

Assistant Professor, International Education and International Affairs

Professor, International Education and International Affairs

Associate Professor, Curriculum and Pedagogy

Research Professor, Education Policy

Associate Professor, International Education and International Affairs

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Doctorate in Global Education – EdD (Online)

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Tuition & Fees

Accelerate your career by building the interdisciplinary expertise and skills to address critical issues in global education.

At a Glance

For the program beginning summer 2025

Residency Locations

United States

Priority Deadline

November 1, 2024, followed by rolling admissions

Final Deadline

January 31, 2025

Critical Global Issue of Study

Education & Social Change

Program Cost

Contact a former student, why a doctorate in global education.

Built on SIT’s powerful experiential learning model, our hybrid doctorate in global education (EdD) combines rigorous online coursework with short residencies in Vermont to fit the needs of part-time and full-time professionals seeking to rapidly accelerate their career while tackling highly relevant issues in global education, both locally and abroad.

Drawing from SIT’s unique brand of in-depth, reflective practice and intensive research training, this doctorate gives you the tools you need to excel in an increasingly diverse, competitive, and interdisciplinary field. Courses take place in person and online, with an estimated 10 to 15 hours of studies a week.

• Examples of Student-Faculty Collaboration

Begin the program with a two-week summer residency, which will ground and orient you to your studies, introduce you to SIT’s global values, and allow you to bond with students and faculty while acclimating to your coursework. You will gather for another two-week residency in the second year of the program, but otherwise work completely remotely.

Courses are immersive, with engaging doctoral seminars; case studies; theory; data collection; research methods; and reflective practice tied to your ongoing work experience. Transfer up to 12 graduate credits from a relevant master’s program into this three-year, 60-credit doctorate.

Throughout the program, you will receive one-on-one guidance from an SIT advisor who, along with your doctoral colleagues, will work closely with you on research topics of your choice. You will present your doctoral defense in person or remotely.

SIT’s Doctorate in Global Education is recommended for students with a passion for international work and education at any level, in any subfield, at any location. As a graduate of this program, you will be fully supported by SIT’s global professional and alumni networks to advance to the top of your field as an international educator.

Students in the EdD program go on to work in the field in a variety of areas including leadership positions in academia, higher education, think tanks, NGOs, nonprofits, philanthropy, government agencies, and research. Career paths that may be open to you include:

University professor, assistant, or associate professor

Executive director of higher education center or nonprofit

Nonprofit, think tank, or NGO management or leadership

Director of programs for nonprofit or NGO

Education administrator

Associate/assistant provost or provost

Senior or leadership role in academic affairs

Researcher at think tank or NGO

Read about SIT Graduate Institute alumni careers through the SIT blog and our Career Impact page. Students who have graduated with this degree work in careers such as the following, among others.

• Courses take place almost entirely online  
• Two-week summer residencies during the first and second year of the program

Please note that in order to take advantage of dynamic learning opportunities, program excursions may occasionally vary.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Analyze contemporary educational issues around the globe through the lens of foundational theories.
• Design and carry out original, ethical research informed by relevant literature and grounded in appropriate methodologies and approaches.
• Interpret original and secondary data to produce actionable findings.
• Contribute to scholarship and practice of the field through publishable research findings.

Read more about Program Learning Outcomes .

Your doctorate  program  will span three years, totaling 60 credits.  With SIT’s experiential curriculum,  you will become an expert in educational policy, practice, theory, research, and administration through curated coursework  online  combined with  limited residential coursewor k and  reflective practice  within  your ongoing professional  activities, concl uding  with a  dissertation.  Coursework is listed below.  

Please expand the sections below to see detailed course descriptions and admissions information.

This is SIT

• We value active togetherness, reciprocity, and respect as the essential ingredients for building a sustainable community .

• With open minds, empathy, and courage, we facilitate intercultural understanding and respect for the commonalities and differences between people.
• We champion social inclusion & justice in all that we are and all that we do, from ensuring our community and our programs amplify the voices, agency, and dignity of all people to deliberately instilling the principles and practices of inclusion in all of our work.
• We are committed to human and environmental well-being through sustainability and contributing to a better world for all living and future generations.

Semester One: Summer, two-week residency and online (8 Credits)

• Theoretical Foundations I  
• Research Methods 1: Qualitative Appro a ches    
• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar 1

Semester Two: Fall, online (8 Credits)

• Theoretical Foundations II  
• Research Methods 2: Qualitative Approaches   
• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar 2

Semester Three: Spring, online (5-8 Credits)

• Research Methods 3: Intro duction to  Statistical Methods  
• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar 3  
• Elective   

Semester Four: Summer, two-week residency and online (5-8 Credits)

• Comprehensive Exam
• Research Methods 4: Qualitative  or Quantitative  Data Analysis  
• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar 4  

Semester Five: Fall, online (3-6 Credits)

• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar 5
• Dissertation Proposal and IRB Application Preparation

Semester Six: Spring, online (4-7 Credits)

• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar 6  
• Dissertation Proposal Defense and IRB Approval
• Data  C ollection   

Semester Seven: Summer, online (5 Credits)

• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar 7  
• Data  C ollection  
• Dissertation Wr i ting

Semester Eight: Fall, online (5 Credits)

• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar  8  
• Dissertation Writing

Semester Nine: Spring, online and graduation (5 Credits)

• Reflective Practice Doctoral Seminar 9
• Dissertation Writing and Defense

Admissions Criteria

We strive to create a diverse and experienced student body to enhance the learning experience both  within  and outside the classroom.  

To be considered for admission into SIT’s Doctorate in Global Education , an applicant must meet the following criteria:  

• M aster’s degree or an equivalent  from an accredited university    
• One research  methods course at the MA level (i.e.  I ntroduction to  R esearch  M ethodology).   In the case of SIT alum ni ,   Practitioner Inquiry   will meet this  requirement   
• Strong academic writing and scholarly potential , as evidenced  by  a statement of purpose    
• Demonstrated English language ability (see details below)  
• Intercultural and professional experience  
• A preferred grade point average of 3.5 out of 4.0 or higher   
• Demonstrated ability to use experience as a source of learning    
• All  applicants   are  required to interview with program faculty 

( MA holders and SIT alumni in a relevant field will be able to transfer up to 12 credits toward the EdD program.  Please ask  us  for more information. )  

SIT Graduate Institute’s Selection Process

Our admissions staff work one-on-one with every applicant to facilitate a highly informed and multidimensional admissions experience: applicants are required to undertake an interview with SIT faculty during the application process.    

As applicants become familiar with the attributes of an SIT education—grounded in the experiential learning model and focused on social justice and leadership skills in intercultural environments—they determine for themselves  how  SIT can help them meet their educational and career objectives.  

English Language Ability

Applicants whose first language is not English and who did not graduate from an English-speaking institution must demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting official test scores for one of the following:

Test Required Minimum Score

• Duolingo English Test 130
• ILETS (Academic) 7.0
• PTE (Academic) 68
• TOEFL: SIT’s code is 3788 100 on the internet-based iBT

These scores are considered the minimum proficiency needed to undertake graduate-level work .  Scores must be dated within two years of the start date of your academic program at SIT.  

Faculty & Staff

Global education – edd (online).

Discover the Possibilities

SIT’s Student Financial Services Office provides guidance on all aspects of funding your degree throughout the application process and during your degree program. Tuition costs vary by program and scholarships are available.

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Doctor of Philosophy International Education

Prepare for a faculty position in comparative and international education, or for a career as a professional educator in international and multinational settings. Develop a course of study that concentrates on a cultural area of the world, with options to study abroad, and take courses in specialized research methods, social science or humanities disciplines, globalization, and educational policy.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

PhD in International Education

Your Academic Experience

Alumni placements, funding for full-time phd students.

Our curriculum includes doctoral seminars, core courses in international education, specialized research methods, areas studies courses, and course work in your area of interest.

You can tailor your program of study by choosing one of the following concentrations:

• Cross-Cultural Exchange and Training prepares you to conduct research, teach, and work in educational and cultural organizations that facilitate international exchanges and cross-cultural training
• Global Education  prepares you to conduct research; teach; and work in colleges, universities, schools, publishing houses, and educational agencies that design, develop, and implement global education programs
• International Development Education  prepares you to conduct research, teach, and work in government agencies, private voluntary organizations, and foundations that provide educational assistance to underdeveloped countries to achieve sustainable economic growth

The list below includes initial or current positions for graduates of the International Education doctoral program in the past decade.

• Research Director, Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack
• Project Director, Pen America
• Assistant Dean, Academic Affairs, NYU Shanghai
• Vice President for Academic Affairs, Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE)
• Assistant Professor (tenure track), University of Virginia
• Senior Program Advisor, International Programs at University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign
• Director of Study Abroad, DePaul University
• Academic Director, Global Institute for Secondary Educators
• Assistant Professor (tenure track), Seton Hall University
• Director, Office of International Programs, Boston College
• Director, International Programs and Services, SUNY Purchase
• Community Manager, Hand in Hand: Center for Jewish-Arab Education in Israel
• Associate Professor, American University
• Director, Office of International Affairs, Stanford University

NYU Steinhardt  offers a competitive funding package for PhD students who study full time.   Learn more about Steinhardt's funding opportunities .

Drawing mainly from the fields of cultural and organizational sociology, I ask questions about how educational practices and institutions are shaped, how they undergo change, and how this varies across comparative contexts. Jonathan Z. Friedman, International Education PhD

Associate Professor and Director of International Education

Elisabeth King

Vice dean for faculty affairs and professor of international education & politics.

Carol Anne Spreen

Associate professor of international education.

Hua-Yu Sebastian Cherng (程華宇）

Vice dean for research and equity; associate professor of international education.

Heddy Lahmann

Clinical assistant professor and deputy director of international education, associated and affiliated faculty.

Erich Dietrich

Clinical professor of higher education and international education.

Ritty Lukose

Associate professor, questions .

If you have any additional questions about our degree, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] .

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