This is an innovative higher degree by research doctorate program combining research, a dissertation and advanced coursework topics.

Internationally, the Doctor of Education is increasingly the qualification of choice for professionals in the field of education. It is particularly suited to holders of an honours degree with some career experience who wish to pursue doctoral studies primarily oriented towards the development of new knowledge through research and the application of knowledge in professional practice. Applicants with a masters-level degree with a research component are also encouraged to apply.

The core outcome of the course is that graduates make a sustained and original contribution to knowledge in education policy, management and practice through a major research dissertation and to develop an advanced understanding of politics and ethics of education policy, research and management. The emphasis is on leadership through knowledge expertise.

You will participate in the program through collaboration in knowledge analysis and generation.

What you will study

The Doctor of Education provides specialist studies that will enable you to develop advanced skills and knowledge to undertake a variety of advanced professional roles in education. It combines 27 units of doctoral coursework topics with 81 units of research incorporating a 45-unit dissertation.

It is expected that upon graduation you will be able to undertake a variety of advanced professional roles in education and associated fields and to make an original and sustained contribution to knowledge in educational policy, management and practice.

To qualify for the Doctor of Education, you must complete 108 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, normally comprising:

Core Year 1: 9 units of advanced coursework and 27 units of research and research preparation topics.

Core Year 2 and 3: 18 units of advanced coursework topics, 9 units of research preparation and 45 units of doctoral research dissertation.

Dissertation: a 45-unit research dissertation is completed as part of the core Year 2 and 3 topics.

Your career

It is expected that upon graduation you will be able to undertake a variety of advanced professional roles in education and associated fields and to make an original and sustained contribution to knowledge in educational policy, management and practice.