Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - Education

The candidate would independently undertake a substantial doctoral programme of individual research, leading to a significant original contribution to knowledge or its interpretation.

The expected time period from enrolment to submission is normally three years of full-time study or six years of part-time study. The degree is assessed on the basis of the final research output, presented as a substantial written thesis that must be "defended" in a viva.

Areas of expertise include:

• Educational leadership and policy • Learning and teaching • Professional learning and development • Teacher educators and teacher education • Higher education • Trans-national education • School and university curricula and pedagogies • Mental health (student and staff) • Dance movement therapy • Reflection and reflexivity • Identity, agency, self-efficacy • A range of established research approaches, as well as narrative, collage, and other non-traditional methods.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to discuss their proposed research with Dr Rowena Senior, Programme Lead for Postgraduate Research, prior to submitting a formal application.

Teaching Methods The candidate is supported by a supervisory team that provides guidance in refining the research focus and conducting the research itself. Supervisors are selected for their expertise and are known for being supportive. In addition, candidates benefit from access to over 100 sessions through the University Researcher Development Programme, which helps develop essential research skills relevant to their field.

The degree is assessed on the basis of a substantial submission embodying a thesis, which must be presented and defended in a clear and scholarly manner.

What's next for the student's career? • What’s next for my career? • An internationally recognised research qualification • Develops advanced research-based subject knowledge and expertise • Develops research skills through engaging in sustained research • The attributes of independent critical thinking and research practice are highly valued by employers • Nationally leading results in 2019 Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) including ranked first for research culture, research skills and second for supervision.