School of Education
DEPARTMENTSprogram Features
Doctorate Degree
Critical Pedagogy
advancing scocial justice
An invigorating, non-traditional doctoral program
Discover how you can actively shape your classroom, school, organization, community and yourself through critical, reflective practice and an understanding of pedagogical teaching and learning.
Designed for Working Professionals
Weekend classes combined with online components provide an intensive, yet flexible format ideal for busy, working adults.
The hybrid format of face-to-face and virtual learning provides an excellent opportunity for students to attend from long distance.
Weekend Courses
Classes meet four weekends in the fall and four weekends in the spring, Friday evenings through Sunday afternoons at the Minneapolis campus.
Three Two-Week Summer Sessions
Each summer from year one to year three, students will gather for a two-week class on campus.
Virtual Learning Experiences
Courses contain a virtual component for discussions and assignments.
Integrating Theory and Practice
Through an innovative blend of theory with practice, critical pedagogy courses incorporate critical theory and focus on critiquing and reframing practical experience.
Learning experiences encompass the entire range of pedagogic possibilities:
- Lecture
- Discussion
- Simulations and role play
- Independent study
- Team projects
- Peer teaching
- Online learning
- Networking
Program Outcomes
- Exemplify a commitment to a collaborative and inclusive process.
- Treat students as colleagues and adult learners who bring valuable experiences to the classroom.
- Contribute actively in shaping the curriculum to create the best possible educational experience for all involved.
- Demonstrate a commitment to an inclusive, collaborative process by building a student population and faculty that is truly diverse.
- Participate in a cohort format with the same group of 15-26 adult learners providing support, diversity and networking opportunities.
- Make a difference in your institution and community and exemplify the highest standards of excellence in your researched, reflective practice.
- Examine your own practices and the practices of your colleagues from a variety of theoretical perspectives.
- Conduct research pertinent to critical pedagogy.
Ed.D. vs. Ph.D.
The chief difference between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D. is in the significance placed on the practice of education. A doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) program prepares researchers who conduct studies that add to the existing body of knowledge. A doctor of education (Ed.D.) program develops sophisticated scholar-practitioners who exemplify the highest standards of excellence in their researched, reflective practice.
As an Ed.D. degree program, the Doctorate Degree in Critical Pedagogy focuses equally on the understanding and critical analysis of practice and the understanding and critical analysis of theory. All practice has a theoretical dimension and all theory springs from questions identified through practice. In the program, you will critically examine your own practices and the practices of your colleagues from a variety of theoretical perspectives.
