Doctorate in International Education

Doctor of Philosophy – PhD in International Education provide the perfect mix of higher education and professional skills, opening up countless opportunities for complete career goals in international education. The program emphasizes the study of educational systems, institutions, and issues within countries other than the United States; however, many students also include U.S. comparative perspectives in their coursework and dissertation research.

What is a Doctorate in International Education?

A PhD in International Education is a research doctorate that prepares applicants for careers as international educators, policy-makers, planners, and leaders in their chosen field. The program emphasizes the study of education systems worldwide and how they are impacted by globalization, internationalization, and comparative education. Students learn to conduct original research on global education issues and design innovative solutions to complex problems faced by educators today.

International Education at the Ph.D. level focuses on cultural, political, and social aspects of countries around the world. Students will focus on areas such as global history, military strategy, and comparative politics. Potential career options may include foreign service officers or public affairs coordinators.

What can I do with a doctorate in international education?

Completing a PhD in international education may prepare students to work in various fields, including as an education administrator, university professor or assistant, educative director, or leader at a nonprofit. In addition, some may work as a director or associates for global programs.

What are the career options for someone with a doctorate in international education?

Many different career options are available to those with a PhD in international education. Some may work as educators, administrators, or professors at the post-secondary level. Others focus on work for government agencies or nonprofits that focus on global initiatives. Still, others may consult on international education projects or pursue research opportunities.

Can I pursue a doctorate in international education online?

Some colleges and universities may offer a hybrid option where students come in to pursue some of their education or to do research while completing their studies online, providing flexibility for students who wish to pursue their degree while working full-time.

Is a PhD in International Education Worth It?

The degree’s worth will depend on each individual’s goals and career aspirations. However, those who wish to pursue research or teaching positions in international education may find that a PhD provides them with the credentials and expertise necessary to be successful in these roles. In addition, there are many benefits to pursuing international education phd programs, including:

  • Developing unique expertise in a specific area of international affairs
  • Building solid skills in research methods
  • Becoming well-versed in newer educational models and methods
  • Acquiring impressive teaching credentials

Admission Requirements for a PhD in International Education

The requirements may vary depending on the school. Still, most may require applicants to have a master’s degree program in international education or a related field, a robust academic writing sample, and English proficiency. In addition, many doctoral programs will require GRE scores and letters of recommendation. Finally, once admitted, graduate students can expect to complete coursework, examinations, and a dissertation research project before graduating.

Top States for Employment for Education Teachers, Postsecondary
StateEmploymentAnnual Mean Wage
New York5,750$70,890
Texas4,320$59,900
Illinois3,530$56,430
Ohio3,320$61,490
California3,290$72,250

Bureau of Labor Statistics

FACT: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teachers’ total employment is anticipated to increase by 12% between 2021 and 2031, which is substantially faster than the average for all occupations.

Top Salary Metro Areas in the United States: Education Teachers, Postsecondary
Metro AreaAnnual Mean SalaryEmployment
Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA$92,680160
Champaign-Urbana, IL$90,690100
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA$81,690490
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA$79,5204,350
Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT$79,2200

Bureau of Labor Statistics

phd in international education

Are you ready to start your search for an International Education Program? Then, use our filters on GradSchools to search and find just what you need!

GradSchools.com offers 5 Graduate Schools with International Education Doctorate Degrees

  • Take A Trial Course On Us. Experience the flexibility of learning online and get a feel for what it’s really like to be a student at Capella.
  • Capella University is an accredited online university offering PhD, professional doctorate, master’s and bachelor’s programs.
  • Relevant, Recognized, Respected—Learn More About Capella’s Online Programs. No GMAT or GRE required.
  • Lehigh University

  • Institute of Global Education

  • Teachers College

  • University of Sussex

  • Boston University

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