2020-2021 Graduate Academic Catalog

PhD in Educational Studies: Human Development and Learning Specialization 45 credits

This is a low residency program that provides advanced study in the social, psychological, and biological conditions that affect the development of human beings throughout the lifespan. The course of study addresses theories of cognitive and emotional development, with particular emphasis given to adult development and mental health, culture and conflict, the relationship between learning and development, organizational development, and research methodologies. In two separate benchmark papers, students address their socio-cultural perspective and create an extensive review of the literature in a qualifying paper. The program culminates in the writing and subsequent defense of a dissertation that represents an original contribution to the field of educational studies and human development and learning.

Program Prerequisite: Master's degree or Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study

Program of Study

Courses may have prerequisites for registration; please check course descriptions before registering.

Please note: EAGSR 9151 is taken in fall and spring of each year you are taking courses. Students pursuing a doctoral degree at Lesley University who have completed required coursework for the program are required to remain enrolled in a doctoral continuation course (EAGSR 9151) until they have completed their dissertation defense, including summer terms/semesters. 

Year I (18 credits):

EAGSR 7118Nature of Inquiry: Below the Surface of Research

3

EAGSR 8206Developmental Science

3

EAGSR 8205Theories and Research in Human Development

3

EAGSR 8110Change is a Process

3

EAGSR 7004Adult Learning and Development

3

EAGSR 7101Quantitative Research Methods I: Statistics for Research

3

EAGSR 9151Doctoral Study

N/A

Year II (18 credits):

EAGSR 8204Adult Development and Mental Health

3

EAGSR 8207Culture and Human Development

3

EAGSR 7200Writing in Doctoral Studies

3

EAGSR 7103Qualitative Research Methods I

3

EAGSR 8201Advanced Adult Learning and Development

3

EAGSR 7104Qualitative Research Methods II

3

EAGSR 9151Doctoral Study

N/A

Year III (9 credits):

EAGSR 7502Doctoral Seminar Part 1

3

EAGSR 8501Doctoral Seminar Part 2

3

EAGSR 8112Ph.D. Dissertation Seminar

3

EAGSR 9151Doctoral Study

N/A