Because Ph.D. admission decisions depend on the match between applicants’ research interests and faculty capacity, potential applicants are encouraged to email to faculty with whom they are interested in studying in order to schedule a brief conversation. These meetings can help identify areas of shared research interests and strengthen applicants’ understanding of opportunities for study in the Ph.D. in Education.

Faculty Currently Accepting Students

Learn more about each faculty member’s expertise, research, and professional background by visiting their profile. Email contacts are available on each profile page.

Upcoming Admissions Deadlines

  • Fall 2027 Application Deadline: December 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM

Application deadline for financial support

Most financial support for graduate students is offered through individual academic programs. In addition, a limited number of awards are available through The Graduate School and are based on program nominations. To allow sufficient time for nomination, applications — including all uploads and required test scores — must be complete by the December due date.

Graduate Financial Aid »

Learn More About the Program

Questions about the Ph.D. program?
Please refer to our FAQ page or contact the Ph.D. strands directly. We also invite you to attend an upcoming virtual information session.

Questions about the admissions process or the online application?
Please contact the Director of Recruitment and Admissions, Dr. Lambert, at clamber@unc.edu.

Questions about financial aid?
Please contact the Office of Scholarships and Student Aid.