PhD in Curriculum and Instruction (PhD)

Applications for the Sep 2026 intake are due by Sep 11, 2026. Tuition is $74,520 Total Tuition (After Partner Discount).

This online doctorate focuses on designing instruction that is strategic, evidence-based, and aligned with organizational goals. Students develop skills to lead curriculum change across educational and training environments. The programme emphasizes solving real workplace challenges through applied research. Dissertation work directly addresses practical problems in the student's current role.

Focus areas include Leadership Dynamics and Organizational Behavior, PK-12 Educational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, Educational Technology, Curriculum & Instruction, Instructional Design Leadership.

The programme requires 60 credit hours, including 36 credits in core and major courses, 8 credits in electives, and 6 credits in dissertation work. The concentration is part of a larger Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership.

Graduates work as curriculum leaders, instructional designers, or education consultants in schools, training departments, or higher education institutions.

Applicants must hold a master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Required documents include official transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement. The programme requires submission of a completed application and payment of a non-refundable fee.

The programme totals about 60 credit hours. 100% online, flexible format with part-time and full-time options; typically completed in 3 years. For international students, tuition is well below the median for US programmes.

Franklin University’s history reaches back to 1902, when it began its work in higher education. It has since developed a model centered on adult learners, combining streamlined processes with free academic support resources. As a nonprofit university, Franklin focuses on helping students manage degree study alongside work and other responsibilities. Its programs are designed for online learning, with multiple start dates and course options intended to fit different schedules.

Academic choices span associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral study. Areas include accounting, business administration, analytics, computer science, cybersecurity, communications, education, exercise science, healthcare, human resources, information systems, nursing, psychology, public administration and public safety. Students can also choose certificates, microcredentials, combined bachelor’s and master’s programs, second bachelor’s degrees and STEM degrees. Several programs offer focused study in fields such as data analytics, artificial intelligence leadership, healthcare administration and cybersecurity.

Located in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin provides online degrees as well as on-site options listed through its program finder. International students should note the university’s strong emphasis on online study and flexible course access. Tuition rates can be fixed from the first class through Franklin’s tuition guarantee, with rates listed by program level on the university’s homepage. Support resources, employer and organization tuition discounts, and a broad online program catalogue are central parts of the student experience.