Program Overview
Build core skills in learning theory, curriculum design, assessment, research methods, and scholarly writing. Choose from a range of electives to deepen expertise in areas that align with your professional goals.
Can You Work Full-Time While Earning the Degree?
Yes. To meet the needs of working professionals, the program follows a schedule of alternate weekend classes that meet nine times a semester (Friday evenings and all-day Saturdays). Most students find they can maintain a full-time job while earning their doctoral degree.
How Long Does It Take to Earn a Learning and Instruction EdD from USF?
The Learning and Instruction EdD is a five-year program, progressing through fall and spring semesters plus summers.
What Is the Format of the Program — Online, In-Person, or Hybrid?
The program is hybrid. Friday evening sessions are online and Saturday all-day sessions are in-person.
Will You Learn About AI, Educational Technology, and Digital Learning?
The program offers educational technology courses designed for candidates interested in enhancing the delivery of instruction with innovative classroom technology. The L&I electives include: (a) Teaching with Generative AI: Design, Differentiate, Assess, and (b) Who's Driving? Revisiting Student Motivation in the Age of AI.
How Does the Dissertation Process Work?
The dissertation process unfolds over the final three years of the program. You will begin with Proposal Seminar (L&I 709) in year three, move into Proposal Development (L&I 790) across year four, and complete Dissertation Writing (L&I 791) in year five, totaling 12 dissertation units.
