Even though you now understand what a doctoral cohort is and how it can benefit you, you might still have some lingering questions. The following FAQs and answers may help:
Are Cohort Programs Only for PhD Students?
The cohort learning model isn’t reserved exclusively for PhD students. Other types of doctoral programs may follow this model as well, such as EdD programs. Depending on the university, there may even be opportunities to join a cohort at the master’s degree level.
For example, at GCU, many of our master’s degrees offer the option to take classes online or on campus in the evenings. If you’re an online student, you’ll engage with your peers using our digital learning platform. You’ll typically meet your cohort one evening each week if you're enrolled in evening classes. The entire cohort will work through one class at a time, potentially graduating together.
Cohort learning models are even available for some bachelor’s degree programs at GCU, with the intention of providing exceptional support and increasing opportunities for collaboration amongst our student body.
What Is the Cohort Schedule Like?
It varies from one school to another. At GCU, evening classes are offered one night per week on our main campus in Phoenix. Some cohort classes may also be online, because cohort programs can be hybrid. Learners progress together through a sequence of core courses, followed by a choice of emphases chosen by the learner and offered online. This schedule is designed to provide much-needed flexibility for busy yet ambitious professionals.
Will I Meet With My Instructors?
Absolutely! Meet with instructors and fellow learners one night each week for the face-to-face experience you desire. These sessions also provide prime opportunities to build relationships and strengthen your professional network. For those who prefer the digital classroom, GCU also offers a number of online degree programs.
Which Degree Programs Are Offered in the Cohort Format?
At GCU, you can find a wide variety of degree programs available with the cohort learning model. Our doctoral evening cohort programs begin on a rolling basis and are offered throughout the year.
Some examples of doctoral programs that offer an evening cohort option (with a sufficient number of enrolled evening students) include the following:
- Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership: Behavioral Health: Explore leadership styles and organizational management in the behavioral health field.
- Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership: Health Care Administration: Examine how to apply an evidence-based approach to solve modern challenges in the healthcare field.
- Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology: Cognition and Instruction: Investigate how cognitive processes can inform the most appropriate and effective instructional methods.
