Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Education Major, Adult and Continuing Education
College of Education, Health & Human Sciences
Program Overview
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, offers an online doctoral degree in Education Major with a concentration in Adult and Continuing Education. Those who complete the program will be prepared for careers as educators, researchers, and a host of other professions.
Credit Hours
84
Cost Per Credit Hour*
In-State $700
Out-of-State $775
Testing Requirement
No GRE
Admission Terms
Fall, Spring
*Cost per credit hour is an estimate based on maintenance and university fees. Some programs may have additional course fees. Please contact your department for additional information on any related fees, and visit Tuition and Fees in Detail at One Stop.
A Degree to Advance Your Career
The doctoral concentration in adult and continuing education helps to develop professionals who can work effectively with adult learners in a wide range of settings and under a host of situations. This graduate program is internationally recognized. It offers students learning experiences that prepare them to work with a range of diverse adult learners, equipping them to work and live in globalized societies and environments that are more culturally sensitive.
The Adult and Continuing Education Concentration in the doctoral psychology and research program prepares students for careers as scholars and practitioners who work with adult learners in a wide range of settings.
The program consists of the following:
- Continuous research or inquiry
- Courses and professional experiences in educational psychology and other related fields designed to develop a comprehensive academic basis for future work in research and teaching
- Other learning and developmental experiences tailored to individual needs and career goals
Featured Courses
The PhD in Education Major with a concentration in Adult and Continuing Education requires a mix of core courses, advanced courses, and research methods. Here are some examples of courses from each section:
ESM 559: Introduction to Qualitative Research in Education
Overview of various qualitative approaches, data collection and analysis methods. Focus on skill development for data collection through interviews, observation, and document analysis, as well as the importance of reflexivity as a qualitative researcher.
ACED 615: Advanced Study of Adult Learning and Development
Adult learning and development theories and research are essential for adult educators who design and implement educational applications and opportunities. Topics covered include advanced research and theories of adult education for improving learning and teaching in educational contexts.
ACED 519: Writing for Professional Publication
Designed to help participants understand what is involved in the professional writing and publishing process. Participants will have an opportunity to develop and receive feedback on manuscripts.
ACED 530: Methods of Action Research
Models of action research and applications in professional practice.
Program Application Materials
Here are examples of the application materials needed to apply to the online PhD in Education Major with a concentration in Adult and Continuing Education. Please check with the department for the latest application requirements.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
This document should provide detailed information about your professional and academic experiences, as well as notable achievements, awards, volunteer work, etc.
Cover Letter/ Letter of Introduction
The cover letter is an opportunity for us to get to know you. It should elaborate upon your CV, highlight your skills, and explain your goals for pursuing a PhD in adult and continuing education.
Statement Goals
Please share with us your research interests and how this degree will help you achieve goals in your learning, career development, and life enrichment; how you plan to use your prior life and work experiences, knowledge, and skills in your new learning; and how you intend to complete the degree.
Transcript(s)
Upload your degree transcripts. Check the page on Transcripts or call Graduate Admissions at 865-974-3251 for help with this process.
Writing Sample
Select a copy of your prior thesis for a graduate degree, a course paper for a degree program, a published article, a conference paper, or another form of writing that you feel represents your professional writing skills and style.
Three Recommendation Letters/ Rating Forms
Provide either a letter by appropriately selected recommenders OR provide selected raters to complete a form that Graduate Admissions will automatically send to your chosen raters. For example, one or more faculty members can attest to your academic work, or your work supervisor can attest to your capabilities. Family members and personal friends are not appropriate raters. Although we can start to review your application with two recommendations, the third recommendation often helps in our decision-making process.
