The PhD in Inclusive Early Childhood Education concentration prepares candidates to be faculty members, researchers, and leaders. Graduates will be at the forefront of change in the areas of early childhood education, early childhood special education, and early childhood multicultural/multilingual education. This program prepares scholars to define problems and conduct research that informs curriculum and policies aimed at promoting child- and family-centered early childhood education. This is with a focus on educating children across races, ethnicities, abilities, and languages. To do so, coursework is grounded in theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches.<br>The PhD in Education and Human Development links an intensive research-based course of study with a content area specialization to prepare candidates to assume faculty positions in institutions of higher education or research-based organizations. Successful applicants are paired with a faculty mentor who supports the student to engage in research, development, service, and other professional activities.<br>The goal of this concentration area is to introduce students to issues and practices in early childhood special education/early childhood education and prepare students who provide leadership to improve outcomes for all children including children with disabilities across early childhood settings. Students obtain the skills and knowledge of evidence-based practices needed to address state and national leadership needs within institutions of higher education to address issues in ECSE/ECE. Graduates conduct rigorous research related to culturally responsive, evidence-based practices, translate research into practice, thus expanding the use of evidence-based practice in the field, and, create, evaluate, and improve pre-service teacher education programs in ECE and ECSE.