Doctorate of Education (EdD)

The Doctor of Education (EdD) is distinct from a PhD in that it focuses primarily on professional practice rather than purely theoretical inquiry. It is designed for individuals who have already gained substantial experience within the education sector, such as lecturers, teachers, consultants, advisers, or inspectors. The programme enables participants to critically examine and enhance their professional practice through engagement with relevant theory, policy, and empirical research.

The EdD attracts a diverse cohort of educational professionals working across a wide range of settings, including higher education institutions, local authorities, schools, colleges, and early years environments. This diversity fosters rich discussion and the sharing of varied perspectives within the learning community.

The programme combines taught sessions, group learning, and individual supervision. Additional input from visiting professors and fellows further enriches the academic experience. During the taught phase, participants are introduced to key methodological, political, philosophical, sociological, and epistemological concepts that inform professional practice. Students complete four modules, three of which focus on academic content and one on research methods. Throughout the programme, four overarching themes are explored: Leadership, Inclusion, Sustainability, and Childhood, Youth, Families, and Community.

In the thesis phase, participants undertake an independent research project based on a question relevant to their professional context. This work is supported by interdisciplinary supervision, allowing for a rigorous and practice-informed contribution to the field of education.