The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program specialization offers a wide variety of courses and experiences focused on theory, research, equity, and practice in STEM education. By studying and engaging in research and teaching with nationally-recognized leaders in mathematics or science education, you develop expertise expertise in (1) how P-20 students think and learn, (2) how educators facilitate that learning, and (3) how to conduct scholarly investigations to answer important STEM education questions.
Future Employment Opportunities for Graduates
Professionals with a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on STEM fields (e.g., Math Education, Science Education, STEM Education) have a variety of employment opportunities post graduation. Many students choose to pursue Post-Docs or Faculty Positions where they conduct research, teach classes, and support their field through service. Other graduates go on to work in the private sector for research groups or professional development providers. Some choose to return to PreK-12 to be teachers, curriculum coordinators, or administrators.
| Student Name | Status | Advisor | Current Position (if graduated) | Current Position/Job Description (if graduated) | Expected Year of Graduation or Year Graduated | Teaching Experience (current doctoral students only - higher education courses taught) | Research Areas: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stephanie White | Current Doctoral Student | Sue Peters | 2023 | Secondary Math Methods, High School Mathematics | Tracking, Mathematical Modeling, Secondary Mathematics Pedagogy | ||
| Terri Tinnell | Graduated | Tom Tretter | Lecturer at UofL. Director of Kentucky regional Junior Science & Humanities Symposium | Teaches education courses at UofL. Leads the KY regional science research competition for high school students in Kentucky - part of the military-funded national science research competition "Junior Science & Humanities Symposium" ( https://www.jshs.org/ ) | 2021 | engineering education (K-12 and higher edu) | |
| Roland O'Daniel | Graduated | Tom Tretter | Chief Executive Officer of Collaborative for Teaching & Learning (CTL - a nonprofit education company) | CEO of Louisville-based nonprofit education company that works with districts and schools across Kentucky and beyond to support education professionals to create long-term improvements in students’ educational trajectories. | 2018 | Mathematics education; policy and district initiatives to generate culture supporting student success | |
| William "Bill" Thornburgh | Graduated | Sherri Brown and Tom Tretter | Executive Officer of the American Modeling Teachers Association | 2017 | taught as UofL Adjunct Faculty - EDTP 215 Foundations (Lesson plan design) | Science Modeling, Informal Science Learning |