Doctoral study is for persons who desire advanced training in research methodology. Doctoral students develop methodological competencies defined by the doctoral curriculum. Every effort is made to tailor the doctoral plan of studies to a student's interest. For example, some students focus primarily on attaining the competence to be a testing and measurement specialist, while others focus primarily on attaining the competence to be a statistical data analyst. Still others develop a more theoretical
orientation in psychometric theories or theories of quantitative research methodology. The curriculum in the doctoral program emphasizes the development of advanced competencies in measurement and statistics. These include an understanding of the theory and application of classical test theory, item response theory, generalizability theory, and various statistical procedures (e.g., analysis of variance, regression analysis, nonparametric statistics, multivariate statistics, structural equation modeling,
meta-analysis). Students are also required to take two courses in psychology.
The first four terms in the doctoral program are devoted to coursework which develops the above competencies. After finishing this course work, students are placed in supervised research settings where they apply the competencies developed. A doctoral comprehensive examination is also required. In the final stage of their program, students complete their dissertation research. Upon satisfactorily completing the program, students are awarded the Ph.D. degree. Students successfully completing the doctoral
degree have an understanding of the content, methods, theories, and professional ethics associated with research methodology. They are capable of independently conducting research of an applied nature, translating sophisticated research findings for application in educational settings, replicating research studies, and assisting educators with analyses and interpretations of research findings.
Contact Information
Clement Stone
EMAIL: cas@pitt.edu
PHONE: 412-624-9359
Admission Inquiries and Application Materials should be directed to:
School of Education Office of Admissions and Enrollment Management
5500 Wesley W. Posvar Hall
230 S. Bouquet St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
PHONE: 412-648-2230
FAX: 412-648-1899
EMAIL: soeinfo@pitt.edu
ONLINE (preferred): Inquiry Form
APPLICATION: Admissions Application
