Doctor of Philosophy

Program of Study

A minimum of 64 semester hours after the master's degree is required. The hours must be distributed in the following manner:

Course Distribution
Degree Plan Components Credit Hours
Common Core 3
Concentration Core 10 credit hours minimum
Electives 15 credit hours minimum
Statistics/Measurement/Research Design 15 credit hours minimum
Interdisciplinary Focus 3-4 credit hours
Dissertation 18 credit hours minimum
TOTAL 64 credit hours minimum

Course Descriptions

In addition, all Ph.D. candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Complete one year of full-time residency. It is understood that the student must enroll for at least nine semester hours during any two semesters within a 12-month time frame.
  • Observe and critique at least two proposals and two dissertation final defenses (two within the department and two outside of the department if possible).
  • Organize a major part of a conference or a doctoral student colloquia/symposia.
  • Participate in a research project with an adult education faculty member.
  • Attend one national and one state adult education conference.

Ph.D. Candidates should also select at least two of the following:

  • Repeat any activity above.
  • Deliver a formal presentation on a research area of interest (to a faculty or professional meeting).
  • Assist a professor in teaching a course; be responsible for presenting/facilitating several units.
  • Conduct a significant job-shadowing experience with someone in a position consistent with your professional goals.
  • Assist a USF Faculty member in making major revisions to an existing course or in developing a new course.
  • Work on a district or institution-level research study with a faculty member.
  • Serve on a college/university/department policy committee or search committee.
  • Participate in a national certification program.
  • Participate in other activities approved by Program Faculty.

For more information, contact Dr. Rosemary Closson or 813-974-8330.