Career and Technical Education (Occupational & Technical Studies) Online

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education
  • Darden College of Education & Professional Studies
  • Department of STEM Education & Professional Studies
Request Info

Why ODU for Career and Technical Education?

Put your love of teaching to work outside of a traditional classroom. Answer the growing need for workforce education and learn to lead programs in career and technical fields.

With this online doctoral program, you'll prepare to design, deliver, and assess school programs, align them with academic standards, and prepare teachers.

This program is designed for university and school system personnel.

You'll earn a PhD in Education with a concentration in Occupational and Technical Studies and an emphasis in Career and Technical Education.

Want to learn more? Contact us!











  • Required Courses

    • 60 credit hours minimum

    You will complete core courses in research and occupational and technical studies, electives, an emphasis in career and technical education, and a dissertation.

    Two 2-week Summer Institutes at main campus in Norfolk, VA, are required.

  • Online Learning Environment

    Attend class online on a regular schedule and access course materials online from any location. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

    This program requires students to attend two 2-week Summer Institutes at main campus in Norfolk, VA.

  • Careers in Career and Technical Education

    • Higher Education Faculty
    • Career and Technical Education Administrator/Director
    • Workforce Planner
    • Technology Consultant
    • Distance Education Specialist
    • Researcher

    Note for students in Washington State from the Student Achievement Council:

    "This program is not intended to lead to teacher certification. Teachers are advised to contact their individual school districts as to whether this program may qualify for teacher advancement."

  • Calculating Cost

    In-state Virginia Residents
    $599 per credit hour*
    Out-of-state Students
    $623 per credit hour

    Rates are effective Fall 2023 and subject to change.
    * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Meet Your Team

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

Ready to get started?

  • How to Apply

    To be considered for admission to this PhD in Education program, you will need to:

    • be admitted to ODU as a degree-seeking graduate student
    • have a master's degree in a field related to occupational and technical studies
    • provide GRE scores

    Click here for more application details.

  • Want to get started now?

    You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program. 

    Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.