PhD in Instructional Design, Development and Evaluation

Applications for the Aug 2027 intake are due by Dec 1, 2026. The tuition fee is 34,646 USD per year.

The PhD in Instructional Design, Development and Evaluation at Syracuse University is a 4-year doctoral program for students who want to investigate areas related to learning, performance, and instructional tools. This program is for students with a Master's degree who want to conduct research and publish their findings. The main advantage of this program is its balance of scholarly inquiry and practical experience.

The curriculum includes internships, apprenticeships, community participation, and work with faculty members. Students develop into scholars who can conduct, publish, and consume research in various settings. The program also offers opportunities for collaborative projects and an active residency program.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Instructional Designers, Educational Researchers, Curriculum Developers, Training Managers, or Performance Improvement Specialists. They can work in industries such as education, training, or human resources, and can be employed by schools, companies, or government agencies.

Syracuse University is a private research university in Syracuse, New York, founded in 1870. With around 20,500 students and over 4,300 international students, the campus blends an active student life with strong research and professional networks. Its compact urban setting offers convenient access to cultural venues and internships across the Northeastern United States, while maintaining a welcoming community atmosphere for students from many countries.

Academics at Syracuse cover more than 200 programs across arts and sciences, engineering, business, communications and more, with interdisciplinary opportunities that encourage applied learning. Students work with experienced faculty in well-equipped labs, studios and media centers, and benefit from research projects, co-op placements and study abroad options. The university emphasizes experiential learning, career readiness and leadership development to prepare graduates for global careers.

International students find robust support through orientation, advising, language resources and cultural organizations, plus career services that connect students with employers and alumni. A vibrant campus life includes clubs, athletics and community engagement that help newcomers build networks and confidence. For students seeking a balance of academic rigor, practical experience, and a diverse, close-knit campus, Syracuse offers a supportive environment to grow academically and professionally.