Research Degrees in the Institute for Research in Education (IRED)

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a 2:1 Honours degree or a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area. You will also need to demonstrate high levels of potential and motivation for research.

Months of entry

March, October

Course content

IRED welcomes full-time international students, and both full- and part-time UK students, practitioners, leaders and policy-makers from all sectors of the education system, early years settings, schools, colleges and further and higher education, and those with a broad interest in educational systems and practice. You will be supervised by an internationally recognised director of studies and a second supervisor. Supervisors in IRED have a wide range of interests that includes but is not limited to: curriculum, pedagogy and assessment, leadership in educational contexts, social justice, inclusion and diversity, philosophy of education, special educational needs, mentoring, action research, literacy and numeracy at primary and secondary levels, and the teaching of modern languages, democracy, citizenship and participation in education.

Over the past 10 years our record of supporting our students to completion with studies in these areas to doctoral level is very impressive. In addition to the individual support received, through empirical research, group discussion and activities, and critical engagement with diverse education theories, practices and policies, you will gain world-leading experience and skills in educational research. IRED encourages and supports its students to share their research experiences and findings at internal and external conferences and seminars, and by publishing in relevant journals. You will also be supported to develop your academic research profiles/careers and enhance your employability within educational research and academia more broadly.

Key features

• The ability to undertake independent research
• Monthly PhD seminar programme complements the supervision activities and provides feedback on research content and progress

Career opportunities

A doctorate is increasingly essential for those seeking to establish careers in research (in the public, private and third sector organisations) and academia (teaching, research and various support positions). The research experience acquired through the doctorate can assist applicants in gaining international educational appointments, as well as securing competitive post-doctoral research positions.

Information for international students

Please see our website for the latest fee information.

Fees and funding

Please see our website for the latest fee information.