Students interested in studying children's literature at the graduate level can earn a Doctor of Education (EdD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the subject. These programs are typically offered through literature and education departments at 4-year universities and colleges.
10 Schools That Offer Children's Literature Doctoral Degrees
These public universities provide students with the opportunity to study children's literature at the doctoral level.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Graduate Tuition (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Carolina | Columbia, SC | 4-year, Public | PhD | $13,650 in-state, $29,196 out-of-state |
| Indiana University-Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | 4-year, Public | PhD, EdD | $9,225 in-state, $31,932 out-of-state |
| Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | 4-year, Public | PhD | $8,496 in-state, $23,508 out-of-state |
| University of Louisiana-Lafayette | Lafayette, LA | 4-year, Public | PhD | $5,511 in-state, $19,239 out-of-state |
| Illinois State University | Normal, IL | 4-year, Public | PhD | $7,677 in-state, $12,458 out-of-state |
| University of Georgia | Athens, GA | 4-year, Public | PhD | $8,704 in-state, $24,692 out-of-state |
| Ohio State University | Columbus, OH | 4-year, Public | PhD | $11,560 in-state, $34,064 out-of-state |
| University of Florida | Gainsville, FL | 4-year, Public | PhD | $10,770, in-state, $27,335 out-of-state |
| University of Southern Mississippi | Hattiesburg, MS | 4-year, Public | PhD | $8,514 in-state, $10,514 out-of-state |
| University of Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh, PA | 4-year, Public | PhD | $22,846 in-state, $38,736 out-of-state |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics
University Selection Criteria
Consider the following when selecting a doctorate program in children's literature:
- A Doctor of Education (EdD) might be a good choice for those who are interested in pedagogy and educational leadership, while a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) could be considered by those who are more interested in research and teaching at the university level.
- Programs offer a variety of specialties such as literacy learning, multicultural literature, and writing workshops, so students should consider the availability of coursework in their preferred area.
- Children's literature includes works ranging from picture books to young adult fiction, so students should look for a balanced curriculum that includes sociocultural contexts, educational value and visual content.
- Students may want to consider a program that explores the relationship between literature and literacy because some doctoral degree programs work to improve youth literacy education in addition to analyzing and interpreting texts.
PhD in Children's Literature
Doctoral degree programs in children's literature are available through university English departments. Doctoral studies culminate with a dissertation project written in the student's specialized area of research. Graduates who complete doctorates in children's literature often pursue careers in research, observing student readers in a variety of settings, from grade schools to universities.
PhD in Critical Studies
Some programs fall under a general category, such as critical studies or literature, but allow students to specialize their coursework in children's literature. Students who choose this option often work together in reading groups or student forums. They also hold events, such as hosting speakers on children's literature. While working on a dissertation in children's literature, many students work as teaching assistants in courses on children's books.
EdD in Pedagogy and Philosophy
EdD programs use children's literature and philosophy research to develop teaching methods, improve schools and promote educational reform. Students focus on the ways in which children think critically and form concepts. Students may choose a pedagogical or philosophical track within the program. Most EdD holders pursue careers as educators and school leaders.
There are multiple doctoral level programs in children's literature. Prospective students can choose between PhD and EdD programs based on their academic interests and future career goals.
