Entry requirements

Normally a Masters degree in Education or a related discipline and professional experience in the area of study. Applicants who wish to apply for advanced standing (exemption from part of a programme) based on previous study and/or experiential learning may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Please note that any credits or marks gained from previous study shall not be counted in your final result as your award is calculated solely on the credits and marks accumulated while registered at the University of Winchester.

Months of entry

July, September

Course content

The Doctor of Education provides a structured route for doctoral study based on professional work and interests. There are two designated pathways: Leading Educational Practice in Professional Settings and Creative and Cultural Education.

Leading Educational Practice in Professional Settings is the pathway for practitioners in educational fields who have responsibility for supporting the work of colleagues (for example, as subject coordinator in a primary school; as head of department in a secondary school; or as training manager in other professions or in business). It offers students the opportunity to explore in depth aspects of practice in their areas of expertise, the management of change in practice, or managing the learning and development of colleagues.

Creative and Cultural Education is the pathway for those engaged in education related to cultural issues (such as religious education, personal and social education or community development) or creative aspects (for example, teachers engaged in music, art or drama education; museum educators; or other educators working in non-school settings). It enables students to focus on an aspect of practice or learning in the creative mode, with other practitioners or with students of any age.

Modules

Quantitative Methods in Social Research
Qualitative Methods in Social Research
Theory, Practice and Ethics in Educational Research
Reflecting On and Evaluating Practice
Leading Educational Practice in Professional Settings
Creative and Cultural Education

Thesis
Students explore a self-chosen topic and write a thesis, normally focused on an aspect of practice and involving empirical as well as theoretical approaches. Students are supported by a supervisory team who oversee and encourage their development of the doctoral thesis. The thesis is examined by viva voce with an internal and an external examiner.

When applying, it is important that the applicant gives a clear indication of the area they are considering for a thesis.

The majority of group sessions in the early stages of the programme are held on Saturdays and in evenings. Workshops and seminars are designed to develop core research skills. Students are part of on going online and face-to face discussions with tutors and other doctoral students.

Students engage with a range of activities, focusing on their particular area of interest, but addressing generic skills for research and knowledge exchange. Students work independently with tutorial support towards their eventual thesis, for example by carrying out a pilot study or by developing more advanced skills in data collection and analysis.

All work in the pre-thesis modules is assessed. Level 7 work is given a grade, while Level 8 work is pass/fail. All assignments are given detailed feedback. In some modules, there is an element of triadic assessment, involving students in assessing and feeding back to each other as well as self-assessment and tutor-assessment.

Employers in education and elsewhere recognise doctoral qualifications as an indicator of high quality performance and it may lead to opportunities for promotion.

Information for international students

If English is not your first language: IELTS 6.5 (including 6.5 in academic writing) or equivalent approved test. International students seeking additional information about this programme can email International@winchester.ac.uk or call +44 (0) 1962 827023.

Fees and funding

Home and EU tuition fee for 120 credits (pre-thesis): £3,150
Home and EU tuition fee for thesis stage: £1,575 per annum

International tuition fee for 120 credits (pre-thesis): £6,000
International tuition fee for thesis stage: £3,000 per annum

Please check our website for any changes to fees.

Qualification and course duration

EdD by taught

full time

36 months

part time

84 months

Course contact details

Name: Dr Bridget Egan
Email: Bridget.Egan@winchester.ac.uk

Phone: +44 (0) 1962 827474

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