Interdisciplinary Studies

Ph.D. in Educational Studies in Diverse Populations (ESDP)

The Ph.D. in Educational Studies in Diverse Populations (ESDP) is to prepare professionals who can conduct research and lead innovation that enhances educational and life outcomes for diverse populations.  This would include those who represent cultural or linguistic minorities, those with exceptionalities (gifted and disabled), those from economically challenged (and especially high-poverty) backgrounds, those impacted by gender biases, and those with other relevant learning or behavioral differences. To accommodate the widest range of student research interest in diversity issues there are three concentrations: Context, Culture, and Policy; Pedagogical Studies for Diverse Populations; and Health Disparities within Diverse Populations.  This doctoral program is especially suited to preparing graduates with the research acumen needed to move easily into higher educational/postsecondary settings, P-12 central administration at the local, state, and national level, and leadership roles within school based settings, or non-academic positions within nonprofit organizations, specifically those with a research component. The minimum admission requirements are those of the UAB Graduate School. However, admission is highly selective, and most successful applicants have qualifications much higher than the minimum. Application packets must be complete in the Graduate School office before the applicant can be considered for the program.

Contact Information

For detailed information please visit the program website (https://www.uab.edu/education/home/graduate/phd-educational-studies-diverse-populations), or contact Dr. Andrew McKnight (Program Director), Dr. Tondra Loder-Jackson (Context, Culture, and Policy Concentration Advisor), Dr. Teaira McMurtry (Pedagogical Studies for Diverse Populations Concentration Advisor), or Dr. Larrell Wilkinson (Health Disparities within Diverse Populations Concentration Advisor).