DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN EDUCATION
Communication Sciences and Disorders Track

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Ph.D.), with a specialization in school speech-language pathology and a focus on language and literacy, is a robust, interdisciplinary and evidence-based program that combines the strengths of faculty members in speech-language pathology, reading, educational foundations, exceptional education and teaching English to speakers of other languages.

The program prepares graduates for leadership positions in language and literacy, including college and university faculty members, research scientists, or program development and evaluation specialists in preschools and schools serving students identified with or at high risk for language and literacy disabilities.

Ehren and students Professor Barbara Ehren (second from right), director of the program, with doctoral students (left to right) Cheran Zadroga, Melissa Malani, [Ehren] and Janet Proly

Program Curriculum
The program includes 81 credit hours in four areas: research tools (24 credits); language, literacy and learning specialization (27credits); internships in college teaching, clinical supervision and professional development (6 credits); and dissertation (24 credits). Typically, students complete course work and two preliminary research projects during the first two years of study and the dissertation during the third year of study.      

Current information about the program also can be found in the UCF Graduate Catalog at http://graduate.ucf.edu/CurrentGradCatalog/content/degrees/ACAD_PROG_103.cfm.

Applicant Requirements

  • A minimum 3.0 GPA in an undergraduate degree program

  • A master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders or related discipline, with a minimum preferred GPA of 3.5

  • A minimum preferred GRE combined score of 1000

  • A minimum TOEFL score of 560 on the paper-based test, 220 on the computerized test, or 80 on the internet-based test for international students.

Application Procedures

Submit the following materials by February 15:

  • An official admission application

  • Official copies of undergraduate and graduate transcripts

  • Official copies of GRE scores achieved within the last five years

  • A current resume

  • A narrative statement of 1,000 words or less, describing educational expectations, career aspirations, and any special qualifications or experiences

  • Three letters of reference

Prospective graduate students should apply online at www.graduate.ucf.edu/gradonlineapp/ .

In practice and philosophy, the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders upholds equal opportunity, equal access and affirmative action policies. We encourage all individuals to apply to our programs regardless of race; sex; age; national origin; religion; disability; or marital, parental or veterans' status.