Department of Agricultural Education & Studies

AgEd Doctor of Philosophy Program

The Doctor of Philosophy Degree (Ph.D.) degree is a research-oriented degree. The program of study developed by the candidate builds on the previous undergraduate and graduate courses completed by the candidate. The program of study is designed to foster independent and creative thinking about agricultural education by the candidate. Emphasis is placed on selecting courses and educational experiences that enhance the breadth and depth of the candidate’s knowledge related to their major and minor fields study.

Candidates pursuing a Ph.D. degree must select a research problem, design a study, carry out the study, and document this study in the form of a dissertation. The selection of a dissertation topic is made by the candidate with the assistance of the major professor and program of study committee. The topic selected should reflect original thinking by the candidate and be concerned with some aspect of agricultural education that is within the research focus of the department.

Program of Study Requirements

Program Requirements	Required Course or Equivalent	Credits
Introduction to Research	AGEDS 510	3
Instructional Methods	AGEDS 520	3
Program Planning	AGEDS 524	3
Learning Theory	AGEDS 533	3
Foundations of Agricultural Education	AGEDS 550	3
Data Analysis and Interpretation	AGEDS 552	2
Program Evaluation	AGEDS 604	3
Required Seminars in AgEd	AGEDS 615	5
Professional Internship	AGEDS 617	1
Program Leadership & Administration	AGEDS 625	3
Dissertation Research	AGEDS 699	15
Qualitative Research Methodology	RESEV 580	3
Research & Statistics Electives		6
Electives		19
Total Required Credits		72

Other requirements:

36 credits must be earned at Iowa State University
Completion of a career-focused experience plan in the areas of teaching, extension, and research
Completion of written and oral preliminary examinations (conducted by candidate’s program of study committee)
Presentation of a departmental seminar
Completion of final oral examination and defense of dissertation (conducted by candidate’s program of study committee)
Earn at least 24 credits during two consecutive semesters or during a continuous period including two semesters and a summer session while in residence at the university

For the Ph.D. degree, a specialization in agricultural extension education can be earned by taking a graduate course in the following areas: instructional methods, program planning, technology transfer, program evaluation, and administration. Additionally, the dissertation research must be related to agricultural extension education. Students who wish to focus on extension are encouraged to review “A Sampling of Courses Supportive of an Extension Graduate Focus” (Adobe Reader Required).

Admission Procedures

Before applying for admission, students are encouraged to acquaint themselves with the Department of Agricultural Education and Studies. Explore the following website: http://www.ageds.iastate.edu/index.htm. Contact any of our faculty and staff at anytime with questions. It is important that your educational goals and interests align with the expertise and focus areas of the department. If you decide that one of our programs would help you to achieve your personal and professional goals, we cordially invite you to apply for admission.

Directions for admission that are outlined on the Internet at: http://www.admissions.iastate.edu/graduate/index.php

Key components of the application for admission include:

Application form.
Three letters of reference.
Note: At least one letter should be from a professor who is knowledgeable about your academic performance. Ask references to comment on past academic performance, potential to succeed in graduate school, character and work habits, and whether they believe that a graduate program in Agricultural Education is consistent with their knowledge of your personal and professional goals.
An official transcript from all schools attended after high school.
A resume or vita. Applicants are expected to have three years of professional work experience in a career area related to agricultural education.
A 300- to 500-word statement of your reasons for pursing the degree sought.
Note: The goal statement should provide reasons for pursuing the degree sought. Explain how the degree will help you to achieve your goals. Also describe your experiences and background in agriculture, formal agricultural education, and/or agricultural extension education.
International students must submit a TOEFL score. The minimum score is 213 (IELTS 6.5).

Application Deadlines

March 15 - Deadline for persons desiring admission in the following summer or fall semester.

October 15 - Deadline for persons desiring admission for the following spring semester.