EdD Professional Doctorate in Education

Program Overview

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The Professional Doctorate at the University of East London is a five-year part-time modular course specifically aimed at senior professionals working in all fields of education.

The course gives you the opportunity and the skills to conduct robust, innovative research that will improve the policy, practice and the quality of education. Your doctorate will enhance your professional capability through critical analysis and the use of research evidence.

You will be studying at one of the most diverse and multicultural universities in London, with the chance to meet and work with students and academics from different national and international professional backgrounds, each with their own experience and expertise that they bring to the course.

Doctoral courses at the University of East London give you the chance to draw on this dynamic research culture as well as the research expertise of our academic staff, at least two of whom will serve on your supervisory team.

The course consists of two stages. In Stage One, you will study four compulsory modules over two years. This is then followed by Stage Two, where you complete your research thesis.

Program Outline

A Professional Doctorate represents the highest form of research apprenticeship.  Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to challenge established ideas and concepts, and to develop your personal and professional skills to the highest level.

You will study and acquire a substantial body of knowledge that is at the forefront of your academic discipline and area of professional practice.

As you progress on your doctoral journey you will gain a detailed understanding of the techniques used for research and advanced academic enquiry.

This will enable you to conceptualise, design and implement a project that will add new expertise and understanding to your discipline, placing you at the forefront of expertise, nationally and internationally.

The School of Education and Communities provides a dedicated study and research space for doctorate students at the purpose-built education building - a facility that is a unique hub for research and training as well as a focal point for the community.

We offer you extensive support in a wide range of research and study skills, as well as guidance and specialist support.

Research is structured around several research groups that cover a wide range of fields including language, diversity and multilingual education, leadership and management and early childhood education.

Studying for a Professional Doctorate with us is a unique opportunity to join an international research and learning community through local, collaborative research groups and centres.

Your study will take a variety of forms, including face-to-face tutorials, seminars and group workshops, written assignments and poster presentations. You will also be well-supported in your independent study and the writing of your thesis.

You will also have the chance to present at conferences at the University of East London and to have your work published in our well-respected research journal,

Research in Teacher Education

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You will also be encouraged to present at national and international conferences as and when this is deemed appropriate.

At Stage One of the Professional Doctorate, you will be assessed via assignments (written and visual) and presentations. These will be marked by two members of the course team and moderated by an external examiner.

Stage Two consists of a 50,000-word thesis. You will be examined orally (viva voce) on your thesis by an internal and external examiner.

You must successfully complete all assessed elements before we can award you your Professional Doctorate degree. Students with disabilities and/or particular learning needs should discuss assessments with the Course Leader to ensure they are able to fully engage with all the elements of the course.