All Ph.D. students in the Department of Teaching and Learning must complete?two approved cognate areas as part of their doctoral study plan. Most comprehensive exams in the department are designed to cover the student's core area plus two cognate areas, so selection of cognate areas is important. Cognates also may enhance students' employment possibilities, since they represent a minor area of study.

The following list of cognates offered by program areas in the department is not exhaustive; students may select cognates from this list, or they may customize their own cognate areas in consultation with their advisors.