The concentration in Theory, Organization, and Policy within the Ph.D. in Education prepares students for research in higher education, policy organizations, and governmental/nongovernmental organizations concerned with education, broadly defined. Over the past three decades, political leaders have increasingly recognized the critical importance of education to economic, political, social, and cultural improvement. Their decisions have implications for the well-being of families, communities, and the United States? place in the world. Unfortunately, decision makers often pursue educational goals without a clear understanding of their own philosophical assumptions, the needs for change, the possible results of change, or the social forces that affect actions that legislatures and governments take. This program prepares scholars who can help find answers to these questions and, in the process, inform policymakers, educators, and the public about the progress and challenges of education.