Doctor of Education

The Ed.D is a professional research degree, designed for practicing teachers or educators who are likely to remain in their professional contexts. It provides opportunities to develop the candidates' understanding of professional research in education and to apply this knowledge in carrying out research related to a given educational context. The approach is intended to encourage a more holistic, multidisciplinary approach to understanding the professional context of education.

During the first semester students undertake the core component of the structured program by studying courses related to methodology in relation to professional research, and by preparing a research proposal. The remaining time is devoted to completing three research projects and writing them up as a portfolio of research. Students would be expected to complete an Annual Review of Progress as part of their re-enrolment procedures.

The final assessment for the degree is based on the submission of the portfolio of three research reports, along with discussion and analysis of the professional contexts to which they relate. This research portfolio (which would be expected to amount to approximately 70,000 words) would be assessed by external examiners in the same way as a Ph D thesis.

Quickfacts

• The Doctor of Education is an internal program of 4 years full-time; or 8 years part-time study.
• Pre-requisite qualifications:
  • Either: a masters degree in education, with substantial research component; or
  • an honours degree (at class I or 2 A level ) with a Graduate Diploma in Education; plus three years experience in the education profession.

Program Enquiries

Any questions should be directed to the School of Education by contacting:

Dr Sivakumar Alagumalai
Coordinator Higher Degrees - Research
The School of Education
University of Adelaide
Education Building
245 North Terrace
ADELAIDE SA 5005
Email: higher.education@adelaide.edu.au
Tel: +61 8 8303 5630
Fax: +61 8 8303 3404