Programme summary for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education

Doctoral students undertaking a PhD pursue a research project of their choice under the guidance of two supervisors from the university. This culminates in the production of a thesis that makes an original and distinct contribution to the knowledge of the field of study. The length of the PhD thesis is 80,000 words and is supplemented by an oral examination.

Programme Structure

At the start of the programme and under the guidance of your supervisors you will undertake a research methods training programme providing essential coverage of the ethical and methodological issues associated with educational research as well as the skills required to become a professional researcher. Your progress will be closely monitored through annual reviews and you will have the opportunity to build up a portfolio of evidence of the training you have received during the course of your studies. Workshops, courses and seminars add to the experience of becoming the recognised expert that the PhD qualification confers and enables you to become an active member of the university’s research community.

Career Opportunities

Our doctoral students come from all walks of life and go on to a wide range of careers including academic and research roles in the public and private sectors.

Duration

Normally three years full-time/four years part-time (maximum four years full-time/five years part-time).

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have a good Masters degree or equivalent, as well as a first- or upper second-class honours degree from a recognized UK higher education institution or a qualification regarded by the RDS as equivalent. Those without such qualifications are nonetheless encouraged to discuss the possibility of registering for the programme. Competence in oral and written English should satisfy university entrance requirements. At least two members from our academic staff will review each application before a decision is made. Where English is not the applicant’s first language, a minimum IELTS Academic English (or such qualifications as our university deems comparable) score of 7.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in all components, is required at entry. Such assessment of English language competence must normally have been undertaken no more than two years prior to application, though relevant and more recent study in a United Kingdom Higher Education Institution may be accepted as sufficient proof of ability.

A 1000-1,500-word research proposal, academic references and copies of relevant transcripts and certificates will also be required.