Education Policy

Doctorate (PhD)

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Applications for PhD will open Fall 2025.

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Full and Partial Assistantships

Online Learning Options

Full-Time or Part-Time Options

Program Overview

Whether you want to become a faculty member in educational policy, pursue positions in research or policy agencies, or contribute new knowledge about educational or public policy, Warner’s ﬂexible doctoral program in educational policy will help you achieve your goals.

We invite you to check out our doctoral program, and see how you can benefit from the expertise and support of faculty involved in cutting-edge research and innovative education reform projects, while pursuing your speciﬁc interests. Coursework for the PhD in Education: Educational Policy and Theory.

Key Program Features

Minimum Credits: 90 graduate credits, up to 30 of which can be transferred from a previous graduate degree or program.
Customizable: Program includes a mix of rigorous, core research and policy courses, and elective courses at Warner and elsewhere in the university to enable you to tailor the program to your career interests and needs. You also can take advantage of the opportunity to complete an advanced certificate in program evaluation, urban teaching and leadership, or online teaching for few additional required credits.
Choice of Research Methods: Benefit from a vast array of research methods courses, and choose from a variety of research methods for your dissertation.
Exciting Research Opportunities: Warner faculty are always working on interesting projects that can provide opportunities for research apprenticeships and assistantships.
Flexible: Program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis, starting in any semester.
Supportive Environment: Engage with full-time faculty and peers across the Warner School, both inside and outside of the classroom. Work closely with a dedicated faculty advisor to personalize your program to advance your academic and career goals.

Prerequisites

A master’s degree in education policy, public policy, or a related field.
Relevant work experience is highly desirable.

Scholarships, Tuition, & Financial Aid

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Questions?

Additional Specialization Options

Minimal additional credits required.

Advanced Certificate in Program Evaluation

To strengthen your research and skills in planning and conducting evaluations of existing programs.

Advanced Certificate in Urban Teaching and Leadership

To to better understand racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse urban settings.

Advanced Certificate in Online Teaching

To be more competitive for positions that may involve teaching online.

Customize Your Degree

Our degrees are designed to meet your interests and career aspirations. Whether you want to add an advanced certificate or specialize in a distinct area of emphasis, we can help craft the best option for you.

Prepare to Apply

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Applications for PhD will open Fall 2025.

View all Admissions Deadlines

Core Program Faculty

Brian Brent
School and university finance; administrative decision making; equitable and efficient resource allocation

Samantha Daley
Disabilities; inclusion; special education; quantitative research methods

Karen DeAngelis
Teacher and administrator labor markets; school and district resource allocation; quantitative research methods

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Contact Admissions

(585) 275-3950

admissions@warner.rochester.edu

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Take a Course Before You Apply

Take a course before you apply to one of our programs for a discounted price. Inquire with admissions to learn about credits that also apply toward degree requirements.

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Related Certificates and Degrees

Related Advanced Certificates

Minimal additional credits required.

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