Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Interdisciplinary Education
The Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Interdisciplinary Education offers a flexible, research-driven pathway for scholars whose interests span multiple academic fields. Designed for students seeking innovative approaches to educational challenges, this program allows candidates to build individualized, cross-disciplinary programs of study supported by expert faculty across USF. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in higher education, school systems, community organizations, and educational agencies.
What you will learn
Students in the Interdisciplinary Education program learn to integrate theories, research methods, and practices across at least two academic disciplines in order to address complex educational problems. Through close mentorship with faculty from diverse fields, students develop strong research foundations, engage in interdisciplinary inquiry, and explore innovative conceptual frameworks that connect education to broader social, cultural, and organizational issues. This flexible structure empowers candidates to design programs of study aligned with their scholarly goals while building advanced skills in qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for roles such as:
- University and college faculty
- District-level or organizational educational leaders
- Directors or specialists in nonprofit and community agencies
- Research and policy consultants
- Educational program evaluators
- Leaders in national and international educational initiatives
What to expect
Students can expect a highly personalized doctoral experience that emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and interdisciplinary thinking. Under the guidance of award-winning faculty across multiple departments, candidates design individualized programs of study, conduct meaningful research, and engage in cross-disciplinary coursework tailored to their academic interests. Whether attending full-time or part-time, students benefit from strong mentorship, opportunities for publication and conference presentations, and a vibrant scholarly community dedicated to innovative, community-connected educational research.
