Please review our Frequently Asked Questions to answer questions you may have about the structure of the program, tips for the application process, and to understand if our program is the right fit for your interests.
Can I make an appointment to speak with someone about my interest in the program?
While we are unable to provide personal appointments, we invite you to watch the recording of our 2025 Info Session. This session will answer a lot of the questions you may have about the structure of the program, tips for the application process, and to understand if our program is the right fit for your interests. Additionally, we recommend that applicants review the profile pages of the faculty members they would be interested in working with and reach out to them with any questions about their specialty/research.
When are applications open, and how do I apply?
Applications are due on December 1, 2025 for a Fall 2026 start. For instructions on how to apply, please review our “How to Apply” page.
What do your curriculum and program requirements entail?
You are welcome to review our curricular requirements and sample plan of study to get a general idea of how the program is structured. Students usually take 3-4 courses per semester.
Can you tell me more about funding opportunities? Are there any restrictions or requirements for funding?
NYU Steinhardt offers a competitive funding package for PhD students who study full-time, including international students. You can find more information about funding on this page. The full-time fellowship funding does not come with work or teaching obligations, beyond the requirement that students fulfill all academic requirements (including the research experience) and maintain good academic standing.
Do I need to secure a project/research supervisor to be considered for admission?
No, you do not. We suggest that all applicants read the NYU faculty bios to find the best fit. It is helpful if applicants address their interests and desire to work with specific faculty, if known, in their statement of purpose, so that we also see potential program fit.
Can I complete this PhD program while working full-time?
It is not usually possible for full-time PhD students to also work full-time, including teaching in a K-12 school. Students do often engage in part-time work of various kinds (including teaching NYU courses if available), but full-time work is strongly discouraged. This is not only because PhD courses are often during the day, but also because the research experiences are a substantial time commitment during the day.
How long does it take to complete this PhD?
Typical duration is 5-6 years for full-time students, and 8-10 years for part-time students.
Can I apply with a Bachelor’s degree? Is a Master’s degree required?
A Master’s degree is not required for the PhD in Teaching & Learning. Applicants with Master’s degrees are often more competitive in admissions, but some applicants without Master’s have been accepted. In those cases, students often have additional masters-level coursework to take and thus additional credits to complete.
Can I complete this program part-time?
A part-time PhD student would follow the same benchmarks and coursework structure as a full-time student. The coursework takes twice as long (as compared to a full-time student), but the time it takes to complete all the research benchmarks varies depending on the student. On average, a part-time PhD in our program can take about 8 years.
Can I receive funding as a part-time student?
Unfortunately, no. Funding is only for full-time students.
Can this PhD be completed online or hybrid? Are there any options for studying abroad?
Due to the program design and courses, our PhD is completed on campus in New York City. We do not provide a hybrid or online-only arrangement.
NYU Steinhardt does offer short-term study abroad courses for graduate students, which doctoral students are welcome to apply for in consultation with their advisor, and given that the course fits into their studies.
Can I transfer credits from my previous coursework/degree?
Transfer credits are accepted into the PhD under very specific circumstances. Please visit this page and scroll down to Degree Requirements for more information, and reach out to steinhardt.gradadmissions@nyu.edu with any questions.
Can you review my transcript and/or resume before I apply?
We do not review transcripts or resumes prior to applying.
I speak a language other than English. Do I need to submit an English language exam score?
Please review the English Language Testing Requirements page to see if you need to submit proficiency scores based on your situation. For any further questions, reach out to steinhardt.gradadmissions@nyu.edu.
Is the GRE (or any other standardized test) required to apply?
No, the GRE is not required and will not be considered even if submitted.
Am I eligible for a fee waiver? How can I request one?
Please review the Fee Waiver policies and instructions here. For any further questions, reach out to steinhardt.gradadmissions@nyu.edu.
Does this PhD program provide licensure in education?
No, it does not provide licensure.
Do I have to take summer courses?
Although a (limited) option, summer courses are not required. Students primarily take courses during the Fall and Spring semesters.
Where can I find the schedule of classes?
There is no way for prospective students to view schedule times, especially as these can change on a semester-by-semester and yearly basis. Courses take place over a variety of days and times, and students have access to the upcoming semester schedule generally 3 months before the semester starts. One's schedule depends on their concentration and specialization, as that typically dictates what type of classes they are interested in taking.
If you have more questions not answered here, please reach out to teachlearn.advise.phd@nyu.edu or steinhardt.gradadmissions@nyu.edu.