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Evaluation, Statistics, & Methodology PhD FAQs

Evaluation, Statistics, & Methodology PhD FAQs

Evaluation, Statistics, & Methodology PhD FAQs

Listed below are some frequently asked questions we often receive from students and others expressing interest in our Evaluation, Statistics and Methodology (ESM) PhD Program. Still have questions? Feel free to reach out to us at elps@utk.edu

I am interested in the ESM Ph.D. program but I only have a bachelor’s degree. Do I need a master’s degree?

  • No! Students only need to have previously obtained a bachelor’s degree to enter the ESM PhD program. A master’s degree is not required.

I’m interested in the ESM PhD program, but I’m not sure it fits my field, can you explain?

  • The ESM program is intended for students with education, social science, psychology, economics, applied statistics, and/or related academic backgrounds seeking employment within the growing fields of applied evaluation, assessment, and statistics. These fields have grown substantially in response to the needs of the federal and state governments, non-profit organizations and foundations, and private sector entities to demonstrate and continually improve the effectiveness of their programs and services. The ESM doctoral program is based squarely upon the needs of students seeking to enter ESM fields, expand opportunities within their current professional situation, or prepare for an academic career and engage in research.

When are applications due for admission into the program? What is admission based on?

  • December 1 is the priority deadline for Fall. Applicants may still apply through April 1 with the understanding that funding will be highly unlikely and space may be limited. Applicants are required to have earned at least a bachelor’s degree. Prospective applicants must submit an online application to the Office of Graduate Admission and International applicants should follow instructions in the Admissions Guide for Graduate International Students.
  • The following materials are required for admission to this program and will be requested by Graduate Admissions when you begin your application: Resume or CV, Letter of Introduction – Goal Statement, Transcripts, Writing Sample, and Three Completed Rating Forms. You may also attach your GRE Revised General Test Scores, but that is optional.

What are some of the ESM PhD program’s features?

There are several unique features of the program such as:

  • Focused Competency Development:  All students are exposed to a solid academic core of specific knowledge, skills and professional dispositions in the form of foundational ESM theory, concepts, and applied competencies.
  • Theory to Practice Course-Based Field Experiences: Each student is required to engage in multiple hands-on fields experiences linked to specific ESM course content, enabling students to personally experience the application of theory to real-world practical problems.
  • Theory to Practice Internships Targeted to Student Interests: Students are required to fulfill two evaluation internships in organizations settings (university,  community-based, or other settings) in an area of professional or career interests.
  • Highly Experienced & Engaged Faculty: The ESM faculty are highly experienced and productive scholars with a mix of expertise and experience in research, evaluation, assessment, and applied statistics. The current three faculty members have many decades of combined experience directly relevant to the ESM program. All ESM faculty are also actively engaged in major professional associations (e.g., American Evaluation Association, Educational Research Association, American Psychological Association).
  • Regular Access to One-on-One Faculty Support & Guidance: Advanced ESM courses, focusing on the application of knowledge and skills, have a small class size which provide students with ideal learning opportunities for targeted group and one-on-one instruction.

What will I gain from completing this program in regard to my professional development within the field?

  • Upon completion of the ESM doctoral program, students will have gained: a) knowledge of foundational evaluation, applied research methodology, and measurement concepts, theories, and applications; b) competency with research designs that include and integrate experimental, quasi-experimental, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches; c) extensive hands-on field experience in the application of evaluation, research, and methodologies to contemporary educational and social problems; and d) experiences in applying evaluation, quantitative and qualitative methodology, and measurement skills and competencies in diverse social and organizational settings.

What are some career opportunities that I could find available to me following my completion of this program?

  • Recent program graduates have found various professional opportunities upon graduation. Currently, alumni of the program are employed as higher education faculty members, senior administrators in a variety of organizational settings, and program evaluators. Some have even continued on to postdoctoral program evaluator opportunities.
  • Click here to view our program brochure!