Create an individualized doctoral program that fits your unique K–12 research interests. Your course work includes advanced research, educational philosophy, advanced learning theory, and K–12 history and politics. You can choose electives in such areas as adult learning, mathematics, science, educational leadership, virtual school instruction and assessment strategies. Throughout the program you will build a professional portfolio that will enable you to demonstrate your doctoral competencies to current and future employers. As part of Capella's Professional Education Unit, this specialization is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). People who choose this specialization, which was built around nationally recognized teaching standards, are often licensed K–12 teachers and administrators interested in career advancement, consulting positions, or higher education faculty positions.

The residential colloquia experience: As a doctoral learner, you will attend three five-day colloquia at specific stages in your program, in addition to your online courses. These energizing residencies provide you with insights and knowledge that will be valuable during your doctoral studies and beyond.