PhD Cultural Foundations, Kent State University

Kent, Ohio

60 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The Ph.D. in Cultural Foundations at Kent's College of Education, Health and Human Services is designed for those looking to become thought leaders in education. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips students to critically examine, interpret, and influence educational policies and practices. The program emphasizes analyzing social, cultural, economic, and political factors shaping education both domestically and internationally. Students explore various disciplinary perspectives, including philosophy, history, sociology, anthropology, gender studies, multicultural studies, and religious studies. With a focus on social inequalities, access to education, educational system navigation, and the transformational potential of education, graduates gain the skills necessary to lead change and conduct meaningful research in diverse educational contexts.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal for students who aspire to influence educational policies, research, and practices on a global scale. It prepares graduates to analyze complex social issues impacting education and equips them with advanced research skills in social science and humanities methods. The program’s focus on critical analysis and original research makes it suitable for those aiming to become leaders in academia, government agencies, K-12 systems, higher education institutions, or NGOs. The interdisciplinary approach provides diverse perspectives, fostering a deep understanding of education’s role in promoting social justice and equity.

Specialisation

This program specializes in the social and cultural foundations of education, integrating perspectives from philosophy, history, sociology, anthropology, and related fields. Students examine critical issues such as structural inequalities, access, social justice, and the purpose of education through theoretical and empirical approaches. The curriculum encourages deep engagement with topics like multicultural education, international education, social theories, and comparative educational systems. Students work closely with faculty to develop dissertation topics aimed at contributing new insights to the field of education.

Course fees

Application fees

15.96L

1st year tuition fees

15.96L

Living cost

Degree requirements

To complete the Ph.D., students need a minimum of 78 credit hours, including major courses, electives, and research. Core courses include research in education, cultural foundations seminars, and specialized research. Students must undertake a detailed program of study, and if their background lacks related experience, up to 9 foundational credits may be required. The culminating requirement involves a dissertation, with continuous registration for Dissertation I (30 credit hours) and subsequent semesters until graduation. A midpoint review and comprehensive exam are also part of the process. The program emphasizes a holistic assessment of academic credentials, professional experience, and scholarly activities.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

110

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to pursue roles as education administrators, researchers, policy analysts, and educators across various sectors. They might work in governmental agencies, higher education, K-12 systems, or NGOs at both national and international levels. Recent alumni have advanced in their careers or established themselves as thought leaders in their areas, contributing to social justice, educational reform, and policy development. With the program’s emphasis on critical thinking and research expertise, graduates are well-positioned for leadership positions in education and related fields.

FAQs

What are the admission requirements for international students?

International applicants need to hold a master's degree with at least a 3.5 GPA, submit official transcripts, a résumé, goal statement, two recommendation letters, a writing sample, and participate in an interview. They must also demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or DET scores.

What is the application deadline for the fall semester?

The priority deadline for fall applications is March 15, with applications submitted by this date receiving the strongest consideration.