Education graduates earn a median $33,993 Across 412 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The PhD in Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research at Middle Tennessee State University is a research-focused doctoral programme designed for educators, researchers and assessment professionals who want to lead rigorous measurement, evaluation and inquiry in schools, districts and policy settings. It suits candidates seeking advanced training in psychometrics, programme evaluation, quantitative and qualitative research methods and dissertation-driven scholarship.
This doctoral programme emphasises advanced training in assessment theory, psychometrics, programme evaluation, and research methodology. Core study areas typically include classical and modern test theory, item response theory, measurement validity and reliability, advanced statistics and multivariate analysis, experimental and quasi-experimental design, mixed methods, and evaluation models for educational and social programmes. Students also take seminars in research ethics, assessment policy, data visualisation, and applications of measurement in K–12 and higher education contexts.
The programme combines advanced coursework, hands-on practicum experiences and research apprenticeships with faculty, leading to a doctoral dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the fields of assessment, evaluation or research methodology. Typical components are a sequence of core and elective courses, a comprehensive or qualifying examination, practicum/field-based evaluation projects, and an original research dissertation.
Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised master’s degree in education, educational measurement, psychology, statistics or a closely related field. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a current curriculum vitae or résumé, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and goals, and at least three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
The department looks for evidence of preparation for doctoral-level quantitative and qualitative work; this may include prior coursework in statistics, research methods, or measurement. Some applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample or research portfolio and to participate in an interview. Where applicable, standardised test scores (such as the GRE) may be requested or considered according to department policy. Applicants whose first language is not English will be asked to meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.
Graduates of this PhD programme pursue careers in higher education, research organisations, government agencies and school systems. Typical roles include university faculty and teacher educators, assessment directors or coordinators for districts and states, psychometricians, programme evaluators, policy analysts, research scientists at non-profit and commercial research firms, and consultants specialising in assessment and evaluation.
Alumni frequently work on large-scale assessment programmes, develop and validate tests, lead evaluation teams for educational initiatives, secure external research funding, and contribute to policy development and accountability systems. The programme’s emphasis on applied practicum and methodological breadth prepares graduates to lead data-informed decision-making in diverse educational contexts.
MTSU’s College of Education offers a supportive environment with faculty who specialise in measurement, evaluation and educational research. The university provides opportunities for collaboration with regional school systems and state agencies, enabling applied practicum and field-based projects that connect doctoral research to real-world assessment challenges.
Doctoral students benefit from research mentoring, access to methodological resources and software, and opportunities for teaching and research assistantships that develop professional skills. MTSU’s campus community and its partnerships across Tennessee make it well suited for candidates who want a balance of rigorous methodological training and practical, impact-oriented research experience.
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