Ph.D. in Career and Workforce Education
USF’s Ph.D. in Career and Workforce Education is a fully online research doctorate designed for professionals seeking advanced roles in teaching, research, leadership, and policy related to education, workforce systems, and economic development. This program prepares scholars to investigate critical issues at the intersection of learning, work, and society, equipping them to analyze, design, and evaluate workforce and educational systems across diverse contexts. Graduates are prepared to contribute new knowledge to the field and lead innovation across higher education, government, and industry.
What you will learn
Students gain advanced research skills and a deep understanding of how education and workforce systems interact within schools, community colleges, universities, government agencies, and the private sector. Coursework emphasizes planning and evaluating workforce development programs, understanding labor market trends, examining policy, and studying teaching and learning in career and technical education. Students also tailor their expertise through a cognate area aligned with their professional and research interests.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for research and leadership roles such as:
- University or college faculty (teaching and research)
- Workforce development or career education researcher
- Government or policy analyst
- Director or coordinator in CTE or workforce systems
- Consultant in education, workforce planning, or economic development
- Corporate talent development or learning strategist
What to Expect
The program requires a minimum of 52 credit hours and is delivered fully online to support working professionals. Students complete core coursework in career and workforce education, research methods, and interdisciplinary studies of education and the economy. A cognate area allows customization toward fields such as leadership, policy, adult learning, or economic development. Throughout the program, students engage in rigorous research experiences leading to an original dissertation that contributes meaningful scholarship to the field.
