PhD Higher Education at University of Rochester

Programme overview

A PhD in Education: Higher Education preparing graduates for academic positions in universities and other higher education settings and for research positions in government agencies and educational organizations.

Faculty: Warner School of Education and Human Development | Department: Higher Education | Duration: Minimum 90 credits (up to 30 transferable); one year full-time or two years part-time residency | Intake: Start in any semester; PhD applications open Fall 2026 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Rochester, NY, United States

What you will study

Research, core/specialization and elective courses, a broad selection of research methods courses and a chosen research method for the dissertation; research apprenticeships and assistantships may be available.

Career pathways

Faculty and research positions in higher education institutions, and research, advocacy and leadership roles in higher-education-focused organizations.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Programme requirement: master's degree in higher education or a related field; relevant higher education work experience highly desirable. Warner School graduate applications (doctoral): three recommendation letters (at least one preferably from a former professor); 2-4 page statement of purpose; resume or CV; writing sample of at least five pages; transcripts from all post-secondary institutions; GRE not required for many programmes (doctoral applicants seeking certain university-wide scholarships are encouraged to submit); TOEFL or IELTS required for international applicants with a non-U.S. Priority deadline November 1, 2026; start any semester.

Requirements published at faculty level.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Intake: Start in any semester; PhD applications open Fall 2026

Duration: Minimum 90 credits (up to 30 transferable); one year full-time or two years part-time residency

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