Innovative Doctoral Programs Prepare Students for Success

In the 16 years since Montclair State became the first of New Jersey’s public institutions to join Rutgers in offering a doctoral degree, The Graduate School has continued to grow and excel. Today, more than 270 students are enrolled in doctoral programs in Audiology, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Counselor Education, Environmental Management, Family Studies, Mathematics Education and Teacher Education and Teacher Development.

“Doctoral study reflects our most cherished academic practices in research, information generation and leadership in the disciplines,” says Joan Ficke, dean of The Graduate School.

Here’s an overview of Montclair State’s doctoral programs:

PhD in Environmental Management: This program prepares environmental scholars, scientists and research professionals for leadership positions in fields associated with the changing environment. “It’s the tri-state area’s first and only PhD program in environmental management and one of a very few such programs in the country,” says Director Dibyendu “Dibs” Sarkar.

EdD in Mathematics Education: One of the University’s first doctoral programs, this EdD program prepares students to be leaders in this growing field. “Our students receive deep support in the disciplinary end of mathematics,” says Robert Prezant, dean of the College of Science and Mathematics.

PhD in Family Studies: The newest of the University’s doctoral programs, Family Studies began in fall 2013 and is the only such interdisciplinary program within a 300-mile radius of Montclair. “We are unique for our emphasis on social justice, diversity and focus on the social mechanisms that shape individual, family and group power,” says Director Jonathan Caspi.

PhD in Counselor Education: The first PhD program at Montclair State, the Counselor Education program prepares social justice advocates to teach and supervise future counselors, provides postacademic supervision to practicing counselors and conducts research and program evaluations. “The program provides a life-changing experience for those desiring to make significant contributions to the mental health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities,” says Director Harriet Glosoff.

EdD in Teacher Education and Teacher Development: More than 60 students are enrolled in this popular program designed to deepen the understanding of teacher education and development. “Our program prepares graduates to assume leadership roles in the preparation and development of teachers,” says Program Director Ana Maria Villegas. “It builds on the most current research in teacher learning and development, giving special attention to student diversity in the context of persistent social and educational inequalities.”

AuD in Audiology: The University’s clinical doctorate in audiology is currently the only such program in New Jersey. The 70 students enrolled in the program are well prepared for postgraduate careers as clinicians, educators and administrators. “There’s a tremendous shortage of scientists in our field,” says graduate advisor Ilse Wambacq.

PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders: A new and unique program, it provides the opportunity for advanced study with a research focus in the areas of audiology; speech-language pathology; and speech, language and hearing science. “Due to a serious national shortage of academics and researchers in Communication Sciences and Disorders, we expect to attract many excellent students,” notes Wambacq.