For the past 30 years, the University of North Texas has been at the forefront of the fast-growing field of educational, instructional and learning technologies.

Graduate opportunities

Our coursework leads to a Doctor of Philosophy in Learning Technologies, which can be completed in residency or at a distance. We are the first university in Texas to offer a distance-delivered doctoral degree in Learning Technologies or a related area. The required coursework 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 faculty members and professionals in the field.
• An option to complete work for a master’s degree in Learning Technologies while working toward your doctoral degree.
• The opportunity to build a portfolio of academic writing, creative work and service demonstrating student skills to future employers after graduation.

Students are prepared for positions at universities and organizations that create, evaluate and teach about or test innovative applications of learning technology. Many of our doctoral graduates find employment in education; while others find work in business and industry.

Our faculty members are internationally known for advancing knowledge of technology tools and their applications in educational and instructional settings. Their expertise prepares students to be future educators and technology professionals.

Residency and distance-delivered options

The Ph.D. is offered as a residency-based program for those in the North Texas region and as a distance-delivered cohort program for those preferring the flexibility of an online program.

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 mandatory yearly face-to-face meeting during the fall. The annual meeting is held in conjunction with a major conference when possible.

Degree requirements

The Ph.D. degree consists of 60-69 credit hours, which includes:

• 15 credit hours of core courses
• 21 credit hours of electives/topic courses
• 12 credit hours of research courses
• 9 credit hours of tools courses (waiver possible for one or more)
• 12 credit hours of dissertation

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

Students enrolled in the distance-delivered cohort program receive additional guidance from associate graduate faculty mentors who are professionals in the field.