PhD (Professional) Education

This course is a doctoral research programme of equivalent standing to the traditional Doctor of Philosophy, with a focus on research and professional practice which aims to aid the dissemination, development and management of a range of professional practice and policy development. It provides an integrated and structured programme of study aimed at current and future educators who wish to conduct original research relating to their professional context or area of educational practice. The programme is designed around a coherent taught component during which students undertake three core modules, two optional modules and a research component, during which they conduct field work, analyse their data in light of existing knowledge, and write a thesis for examination. During the taught stage, the core modules aim to support you in identifying your specific research questions through a critical review of the literature; develop the requisite knowledge, understanding and practical skills in appropriate research methods; and produce a compelling rationale and plan for conducting a substantive piece of original research. Optional modules allow you the opportunity to deepen your existing subject knowledge and/or broaden your appreciation of the study of education.

The research stage involves the implementation of your research proposal through the exercise of rigorous data collection and analysis, leading to the production of a 60,000-word thesis that systematically presents your research, learning, and contribution to knowledge. Throughout the duration of the programme, you will be part of a diverse, supportive, and intellectually challenging research environment in the School of Education. In addition to the programme requirements, all students are encouraged to engage in broader post-graduate training opportunities, present their work to academic audiences and communicate the significance of their research to colleagues and peers. Features: A key feature of the PhD (Professional) Education is our belief that students’ learning is most effective when it is the product of an on-going dialogue with others, either teaching staff or fellow students, through which students are constantly challenged to refine their understanding of key concepts in the field of education, and their own development of their research ideas.

Career and Personal Development: The PhD (Professional) Education aims to develop the capacity in individuals to make a significant original contribution to understanding and improving professional practice in education through research. The programme is specifically designed for current and future educators and can be understood as an advanced form of research-based professional development or training. Graduates from the programme may go on to senior positions in their existing field as well as entering academic careers.