Doctorate ProgramsPhD in Education

PhD in Education

Introduction:

The PhD in Education is a research-driven doctoral program designed for professionals, educators, and academics seeking to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of education. This program equips candidates to conduct rigorous, high-impact research on educational policy, curriculum development, pedagogical innovation, inclusive education, and the influence of technology on learning and teaching.

Students will explore critical areas such as educational leadership, equity and access, teacher education, assessment and evaluation, lifelong learning, and the integration of digital tools in classrooms. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices, data-informed decision-making, and the design of innovative educational frameworks to address contemporary challenges across global education systems.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for leadership roles in academia, education ministries, policy think tanks, international educational organizations, non-profits, and research institutions—shaping the future of education through transformative research and visionary leadership.

Programme Structure and Roadmap:

The PhD in Education follows a structured yet flexible research pathway designed to build competence in critical research areas while enabling students to specialise in their area of interest. The programme consists of 70 credits, which include both coursework and the final thesis.

Credit Hours:

70

Duration:

~ 3 to 5 Years

Road Map

Module Title: Credits
Research Proposal 6
Academic Writing 6
Advance Research Methodology 6
Qualitative Methods 6
Quantitative Methods 6
Comparative Studies 5
Ethics in Educational Research 5
Literature Review and Critical Analysis 10
Supervised Research Seminars (Colloquium) Non-credit
Thesis (Research, Writing, and Defence) 20

PhD in Education – Module Descriptions

1. Research Proposal – 6 Credits

This module guides candidates through the development of a comprehensive research proposal that forms the foundation of their doctoral study. Students will define a clear research problem, formulate research questions or hypotheses, review relevant literature, and select an appropriate methodology. Emphasis is placed on establishing academic originality, research feasibility, and ethical compliance.

2. Academic Writing – 6 Credits

This module enhances scholarly writing skills necessary for doctoral-level research. It focuses on academic tone, argument development, citation practices, structure, and coherence in writing. Students will learn how to write critically and persuasively in academic formats such as journal articles, conference papers, and dissertations. Peer feedback and revision strategies are also integrated.

3. Advanced Research Methodology – 6 Credits

Students gain a deep understanding of research paradigms and advanced methodological concepts in educational research. This module explores epistemology, ontology, mixed-method approaches, sampling strategies, data triangulation, and research validation. Candidates will refine their ability to choose and justify methodologies that align with their specific research goals.

4. Qualitative Methods – 6 Credits

This module equips students with qualitative research techniques, including interviews, focus groups, ethnography, case studies, and content analysis. Emphasis is placed on designing qualitative studies, data collection, transcription, coding, and thematic analysis. Ethical considerations and the role of researcher reflexivity are also explored.

5. Quantitative Methods – 6 Credits

Focused on statistical reasoning and empirical investigation, this module covers survey design, sampling, hypothesis testing, descriptive and inferential statistics, and the use of software tools such as SPSS or R. Students learn to analyse numerical data and interpret quantitative results to draw conclusions within educational contexts.

6. Comparative Studies – 5 Credits

This module explores educational systems, policies, and practices across different countries and cultures. Students learn how to critically analyse international trends in education, identify best practices, and apply comparative frameworks. Key topics include curriculum reforms, teacher education, learning outcomes, and global educational standards.

7. Ethics in Educational Research – 5 Credits

This module addresses ethical principles and dilemmas in education-focused research. Topics include informed consent, confidentiality, data protection, researcher-participant relationships, and institutional review processes. Students will learn how to apply ethical reasoning in real-world research scenarios and ensure the integrity of their studies.

8. Literature Review and Critical Analysis – 10 Credits

A cornerstone of doctoral research, this module develops the ability to conduct in-depth literature reviews. Students learn to search academic databases, synthesise findings, identify gaps in the literature, and critique existing theories and methodologies. The goal is to construct a strong theoretical framework to support their thesis.

9. Supervised Research Seminars (Colloquium) – Non-Credit

This non-credit component provides a platform for students to present their ongoing research to faculty and peers, receive constructive feedback, and engage in academic discourse. It encourages scholarly collaboration, reflective practice, and continuous improvement of research design and execution.

10. Thesis (Research, Writing, and Defence) – 20 Credits

The thesis represents the culmination of the doctoral journey. Under the supervision of academic mentors, candidates will conduct original research, analyse data, draw conclusions, and produce a substantial doctoral dissertation. The final submission will be assessed through an oral defence (viva voce) before a panel of examiners, demonstrating the candidate’s contribution to the field of education.


Key Learning Areas

- Educational Leadership and Policy
- Pedagogical Innovation and Curriculum Design
- Inclusive and Equitable Education Practices
- Digital Transformation in Education
- Evidence-Based Practice and Data-Driven Decision-Making
- Comparative and International Education
- Research Ethics and Professional Conduct

Mode of Study

Delivery: 100% Online with Full Academic Supervision
Duration: 3–5 Years (Flexible Pathway Available)
Language: English

Who Should Apply?

This programme is suitable for:
- Education professionals aiming for senior academic or policy roles
- Researchers seeking to advance their expertise in educational theory and practice
- School and institutional leaders planning systemic innovation
- NGO and government professionals working on global education initiatives

Career Pathways

Graduates of the PhD in Education will be equipped to take on leadership and expert roles in:
- Universities and Higher Education Institutions (as faculty or research fellows)
- Ministries of Education and Government Bodies
- International Organisations (UNESCO, UNICEF, World Bank Education Sector)
- NGOs and Policy Institutes
- Curriculum Development and Assessment Agencies
- Educational Technology Firms and Think Tanks

Why Choose This Programme?

- Internationally recognised qualification
- Fully supported, flexible study model
- Supervision by experienced education researchers
- Focus on real-world impact and global educational challenges
- Access to academic resources and lifelong alumni support

Apply Now!

For more details or admissions contact now!

 
Andrew Barrow
Head of Admission Department

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