Learning Technologies

Doctoral Degree Program

Graduate opportunities

For the past 30 years, the University of North Texas has been at the forefront of the fast-growing field of educational and instructional technology. Technology is changing the way we live, work and play. And it's also changing the way we learn.

Our course work leads to a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Learning Technologies, which can be completed in residency or online. We're the first university in Texas to offer an online doctoral degree in Learning Technologies or related area.

The required course work focuses on understanding and expanding the synergy of technology and learning/instructional systems theory. The program also provides:

• A strong foundation in computing and information/cognitive science, learning theory and education
• Mentoring from professionals in the field and faculty members, which is an important aspect of the program
• Option to complete work for a master's degree in Learning Technologies while working toward your doctoral degree
• Building a portfolio of academic writing, creative work and service demonstrating your skills to future employers after graduation

You'll be prepared for positions at universities and organizations that create, teach about or test innovative applications of instructional and educational technology. Currently, more than 50 percent of doctoral graduates find employment at universities.

Our faculty members are internationally known for advancing knowledge of technology tools and their applications in educational and instructional settings. Their expertise will prepare you as a future educator and technology professional.

The residency and online options

The Ph.D. is offered as a residency-based program for those in the North Texas region and an online blended program to those outside the region.

Residency students meet for courses at the state-of-the-art UNT Discovery Park. Students participating in the distance option take online courses throughout the year and attend a yearly face-to-face meeting during the summer. The annual meeting is held before or after the annual International Society for Technology in Education conference.

Attending UNT

Admission requirements

Admission to the doctoral program is competitive, and you'll be evaluated by department faculty members each semester. You'll need to meet the admission requirements for the Toulouse Graduate School and provide the following materials to the program office:

• 500- to 1,000-word personal statement describing your doctoral research areas of interest; research, professional or community experiences that demonstrate motivation, commitment and potential for doctoral work; accomplishments; communication and technology skills; and contribution to the diversity of the field
• Letter of intent specifying the particular program you're applying for and a faculty member you intend to work with (Applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members before submitting this letter.)
• Three letters of recommendation (One must be from a current faculty member at an academic institution, and all should address your potential to complete the program.)
• Résumé or curriculum vitae with previous work or educational experiences

The admissions committee may request an interview. For more details on admissions deadlines and requirements, visit our website. We encourage you to submit all materials well in advance of the deadline because of the processing time.

Degree requirements

The Ph.D. degree consists of 69 credit hours, which includes:

• 15 credit hours of core courses
• 21 credit hours of electives
• 12 credit hours of research courses
• 12 credit hours of dissertation
• 9 credit hours of computer education or educational research courses

Students work closely with faculty members during course work and the dissertation, providing support and encouragement, as needed.

Online students receive additional guidance from associate graduate faculty mentors who are professionals in the field.

Financial assistance

Grants from organizations such as the U.S. Department of Education, the Texas Education Agency and the Job Training Partnership Program provide financial support to students. For information on these opportunities, contact the department. For information about other financial assistance programs, visit the Financial Aid website.