Doctor of Education

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirements for the programme is a H2:2 Master's degree or higher equivalent in education or a specific discipline area appropriate for one of the Areas of Professional Focus.

All candidates are typically required to have a minimum of five years professional experience or hold a position of responsibility for at least five years related to the chosen Area of Professional Focus.

All entry requirements must be met before commencement of the programme.

In line with DCU’s (2019) Recognition of Prior Learning Policy (RPL), candidates who do not have the appropriate level of academic attainment for direct entry may apply for access via the RPL process. All RPL applicants are advised to:

• contact the Programme Chair or Deputy Chair to confirm their eligibility before they apply
• visit the RPL webpage
• upload your RPL cover sheet to the transcripts section on your application

In Years 1 and 2, students are required to attend the one-week on-campus summer school in person, as well as all six on-campus weekends and all six online weekends (dates will be communicated to successful applicants in advance). From Year 3, during the research phase, when required, students are expected to attend in-person supervision meetings and formal progression meetings. In accordance with the DCU's Academic Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees by Research & Thesis, students are also required to attend viva voce examinations in person at Dublin City University.

Applicants who require a study visa for the purposes of gaining entry into Ireland are advised that they are ineligible to apply for this part-time programme. Please note that scholarship funding is not available for this part-time programme.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Are you keen to develop your research skills, extend your knowledge and become a leader in your field? Do you want to grow your expertise and career prospects in a collaborative and supportive environment?

This programme, the only member of The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate outside the US, will help you hone your writing, research, analytical and leadership skills to the highest standards.

The four-year, part-time programme is open to professionals working in education or related fields. You’ll get the chance to work with leading experts and complete research study in one of the following areas: digital learning; education for sustainable futures; inclusive and special education; leadership and evaluation; and professional learning and teacher education.

Feel supported every step of the way
The first two years will involve a taught programme, while the final two years will focus on research under the guidance of your supervisors. You’ll also benefit from a blended learning approach, with modules delivered on campus and online.

Once you graduate, you’ll be highly sought after for roles in academia, community-based organisations, consultancy, government and non-governmental organisations, the health sector and human resources management. You’ll also be an excellent candidate for leadership positions.