phd in special education australia

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8 Universities in Australia offering Postgraduate Special Education degrees and courses

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Are you looking for Postgraduate courses in Special Education? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options.

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Edith Cowan University (ECU)

THE World Ranking: 351

Griffith University

THE World Ranking: 251

Macquarie University

THE World Ranking: 180

Murdoch University

UNSW Sydney - University of New South Wales

THE World Ranking: 84

University of Newcastle

THE World Ranking: 201

University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)

The University of Sydney

THE World Ranking: 60

There are more Special Education courses available in Australasia

• Special Education (General)
• New South Wales (inc. Sydney)
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• Western Australia (inc. Perth)
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• Subject Special Education
• Qualification Postgraduate
• Destination Australia
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Qualification, destination.

Doctor of Education

• Arrow-right #1 in Education in Australia
• Arrow-right #13 in Education globally
• Course code: 300BB

Course overview

The Doctor of Education is a research doctorate for experienced professionals with educational responsibilities. Carefully designed to build the knowledge and skills necessary for research at the doctoral level through a tailored coursework program, the course enables experienced educators to design and carry out research projects that have direct relevance to their professional role.

Coursework and thesis requirements

Successful completion requires a combination of coursework (100 credit points) and a 55 000 word thesis, which comprises a substantial piece of original research.

Internationally recognised lecturers

We're home to a number of internationally recognised education experts, and at the cutting edge of teaching and research.

Related study areas

• General studies in education

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Inclusive and Specialised Education

The Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education is designed for education professionals who aspire to provide leadership in inclusive and specialised education, and advocacy for children and young people with special needs.

You'll have the opportunity to study a range of minors where you can develop expertise across a range of areas in inclusive and specialised education, or you can build a unique program of study featuring a broad selection of topics.

Gain the creative, caring, ethical, critical thinking, problem-solving and research skills needed to analyse provisions and practices relating to children and young people with special needs. Upon graduation, you'll be equipped to design, implement and evaluate policies, programs and services relating to inclusive and specialised education.

Advance your career and become a skilled professional who is able to thrive in a range of diverse settings, and communicate and collaborate effectively and ethically with children, parents, carers and educators.

Fast-track your studies Study a Master's degree in Inclusive and Specialised Education in just 1.5 years by choosing our accelerated mode. Your experience counts If you've studied at Flinders or another institution previously, or have time in teaching service, this could be recognised towards your Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education - meaning you could complete the degree in as little as 12 months!  Find out more  about how you can apply for recognition of prior learning, and reduce the length of time required to complete your qualification.

Up to 80% off fees due to Government subsidies*. 

*Government subsidies enable Flinders to offer Domestic applicants a reduction of up to 80% off full course fees through Commonwealth Supported Places. Offer subject to change.

Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education

Duration: 1.5 years

Delivery mode: In person Online

Location: Bedford Park

Availability: Full-time Part-time

Start dates: March July 

SATAC code:   2CM695 (Full fee paying)

Annual indicative fees (2025): $4,624 (Commonwealth supported place) $23,312 (Full fee paying)

Further information on fees listed

Duration: 2 years

SATAC code:   2CM661 (Full fee paying) 2CM261 (Commonwealth supported place)

Delivery mode:  In person

Start dates:  March July  

CRICOS code: 105117C

Annual fees: 2025: $36,300

What you will study 

Entry requirements 

How to apply 

Enquire 

Why study the Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education?

• No. 1 in SA in Education and Training for full-time employment, overall educational experience, skills development and teaching quality. (The Good Universities Guide 2024 (postgraduate), public SA-founded universities only).
• Make the most of our flexible, in-person and online study options.
• Take real-world, practical learnings back to your workplace.
• Not sure where to start? Build your knowledge with one of our innovative new Graduate Certificates, and gain credit for your studies towards the Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education.

Shape your degree according to your needs

Our postgraduate education courses are designed to adapt to your needs and career goals, providing flexibility, versatility and diversity.

• Apply your learning to your own work environment, ensuring ongoing relevance and real-world results
• Develop your research capacity, transition into educational research, and/or lead educational change. Plan ahead for personal career goals such as a Higher Degree by Research.

Choose from our wide range of topics across the following Minor programs of study or elect to complete one or more Minors to develop areas of expertise within your Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education degree. Completion of a Minor program of study, each comprised of four topics, will be recorded on your transcript.

• Complex Disabilities
• Early Intervention
• Inclusive Education
• Learning Difficulties

Explore all Innovative Education Futures courses

Graduate certificates.

Graduate with an award for your completed program or continue with the Masters to further enhance your knowledge and skills.

Education Research*^

Pedagogy & Practice

Student Wellbeing

STEM Education

Student Inclusion*

Leadership in Education

Autism & Complex Disabilities*

Digital Innovation & Artificial Intelligence in Education

Continue to further study with the Master of Education OR the Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education.

Master of Education

Master of Inclusive & Specialised Education

*All Graduate Certificates articulate into the Master of Education. However, the Graduate Certificate in Education Research, Graduate Certificate in Autism and Complex Disabilities and Graduate Certificate in Student Inclusion are ESSENTIAL for articulating into the Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education.

^ Additionally, the Graduate Certificate in Education Research is a core minor for both of the Masters programs.

Your career

A Master of Education from Flinders University is an asset recognised locally, nationally and internationally for anyone seeking, or furthering, a career in educational contexts.

Graduates will be equipped for careers in a wide range of settings, from schools and universities, to education departments and ministries, in Australia or abroad.

Potential occupations:

• Special/gifted education classroom teacher
• Inclusive or special education coordinator in a school or site
• Special education support roles
• Gifted education support roles
• Community roles in special needs settings.

Potential employers:

• Schools and education sites in all education sectors nationally and internationally
• Community organisations and Local Councils who employ graduates with special education qualifications.

Professional accreditation/recognition:

These courses can count towards professional learning.

These courses do not lead to teacher registration in South Australia. Learn how to become a teacher with Flinders .

• Teacher employed locally, nationally, or internationally
• Coordinator of educational programs
• Education administrator
• Education policy maker or analyst
• School executive
• Researcher.
• Public, private and independent Schools
• Department of Education
• Ministry of Education
• Education research institutions

What you will study

In the Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education you will study a selection of core topics, and you may choose from a range of option topics and minor programs of study to shape the degree according to your needs and interests.

View study program

Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education (1.5 years)

Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education (2 years)

In the Master of Inclusive and Specialised Education you can select from a range of topics and minor programs of study to shape the degree according to your needs and interests. The course addresses all facets of inclusive and specialised education within multi-tiered systems of support, including:

• evidence-based ‘universal’ practices to promote academic achievement, positive behaviour and wellbeing for all students;
• more intensive, targeted supports for students at-risk or experiencing difficulties, when and how this support is needed; and
• personalised programming for students with more complex, specialised needs.

Entry requirements

Master (2 year)

Applicants must normally hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in Education, Disability Studies, Psychology, Speech and Language Therapy, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy or closely related qualification.

Master (1.5 year)

Applicants must normally hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in Education, Teaching or closely related qualification.

How to apply

Select your preferred course.

Check entry requirements.

Check individual course entries on SATAC for information on important dates.

Apply online at SATAC.

Applicants must normally hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in education, disability studies, psychology, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy or closely related discipline; or hold the Graduate Certificate in Inclusive and Specialised Education or closely related qualification.

English language requirements

Select your course.

Check your eligibility for credit .

Apply online

Obtain certified documents.

Submit your application and documents.

View further details

Course enquiries

For all course enquiries phone or email us or complete the course enquiry form. 

1300 354 633

[email protected]

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Want more information about studying at Flinders University? Contact us to find out more – we’d love to help you decide if Flinders University is the right choice for you.

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Graduate Diploma of Inclusive and Special Education

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Related courses

Master of education.

Full time: 1.5 years, 1 year

Combined campus and online

Master of Inclusive and Special Education

Full time: 1.5 years

100% online

Graduate Certificate of Inclusive and Special Education

Part time: 1 year

Build a double degree

Explore your options and complete two degrees in less time.

Special & inclusive education

Make a difference in the lives of students with disabilities

Special and inclusive education at UNSW is the postgraduate study of choice for teachers looking to advance their career and make a real impact on the lives of special needs children and students with learning disabilities.

Our two special and inclusive education programs are designed for teachers who are looking to specialise in special and inclusive education and develop the skills to support students in all environments.

Guided by leading academics, you’ll gain insight into the underlying theories of special needs education. You’ll also learn how you can integrate special and inclusive education across a range of educational settings and contexts within the Australian classroom.

Why special & inclusive education is important for all teachers

The modern Australian classroom is now fully inclusive of all students, with all schools legally required to have equal education provisions for students with disabilities. Consequently, this means that as a teacher, students with special educational needs will be in your classroom – whether you’re working within special education or not.

It’s now more important than ever to be equipped with the knowledge and strategies to implement universal design for learning. This universal design must allow students of all abilities to be successful in the classroom.

Flexible & affordable

We offer alternative delivery options, including the following:

• online and blended courses
• intensive school holiday courses
• workplace and self-directed learning
• evening classes.

Our flexible learning options ensure that inclusive education study fits into your lifestyle. We also provide affordable study options with  Commonwealth Supported Places  and the opportunity (for eligible students) to pay or defer fees through  FEE-HELP .

Specialist learning to excel in your career

Students who complete graduate studies in special and inclusive education at UNSW can gain employment in a range of educational institutions. These may include special schools, educational facilities for preschool-aged children and education providers for adults or ageing people with disabilities.  Contact us  to discover how you can pursue rewarding career opportunities in special and inclusive education.

Study with us

UNSW offers two specialist programs which focus on meeting the diverse needs of special needs children with a strong emphasis on developing teaching skills to support students in all environments. 

Graduate Certificate in Education (Special Education)

Students completing the Graduate Certificate in Education (Special Education) will complete four elective courses from options within the special and inclusive education specialisation.

Master of Education (Special Education)

The Master of Education (Special Education) is designed for qualified teachers who want to obtain an accredited qualification in special education as well as update and extend their professional learning. This degree has the option of continuing onto higher degree studies.

Terry Cumming

Joanne Danker

Iva Strnadova

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PhD and Research Masters

Are you passionate about education and inspiring future generations? Do you want to become an expert in your field? Studying a PhD or Research Masters through the School of Education can open up boundless opportunities for you to contribute to the educational future of your community.

More than 190 Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students from more than 28 countries are supervised by world-leading scholars in our School. When studying with us, you’ll be encouraged to take your career further as a classroom teacher, school leader, researcher, or even contribute to the development of educational policy.

Snapshot of current research

Our current PhD and MPhil candidates in the School of Education are researching areas such as:

• Physical activity and nutrition
• Teachers and teaching
• Research training and adaptive knowledge
• Equity and education
• Curriculum and pedagogical innovation
• Comparative and international education
• Early childhood education and care
• Special and inclusive education

Models of Higher Degree by Research supervision

Our School utilises a range of supervisory models from personalised mentoring through to innovative cohort models that include school-based groups and multi-school networks. Higher degree students work on their projects in collaboration with University supervisors who provide expert coaching in your journey to produce new knowledge that impacts policy or practice.

Costs for Higher Degree by Research programs

Australian postgraduate research (Higher Degree by Research) students do not currently incur tuition fees or a HECS debt. International students, see our costs section.

Who can apply

Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Honours and Masters degrees aren’t essential to commence a Higher Degree by Research program for those with relevant experience.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, submit the Expression of Interest form which will be reviewed by the Deputy Head of School (Research).

Applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate meeting the University's English proficiency policy.

How to apply

Step one – school of education expression of interest.

To enable the School of Education to determine your eligibility for one of our HDR programs and identify a potential supervisor, please complete the expression of interest form and email it to the school.

Please allow at least two weeks for a response.

Step Two – Higher Degree by Research application

If we are able to secure supervision based on your expression of interest, you will be guided to complete the official University of Newcastle application process.

Explore how to write a graduate research proposal.

What support does the School provide?

Your MPhil or PhD journey will be enriched through a close relationship with a team of dedicated supervisors. In addition to regular meetings with supervisors, HDR candidates are offered:

• access to research funding support (Direct Research Cost [DRC] allowance , accessible post-confirmation of candidature, for costs related to the research project
• a dedicated workspace and laptop
• an extensive program of workshops, seminars and courses that will enhance your research skills, enable you to connect with other students, and provide timely support at key moments of your candidature
• opportunities to share their research at regular School, College and University conferences
• awards and prizes celebrating graduate research achievements and contributions to our research culture
• professional learning workshops and opportunities to test and share ideas with fellow researchers

School contacts

Head of School Susan Ledger

• Phone: +61 2 4921 2066
• [email protected]
• Research profile

General enquiries

• Callaghan Campus Phone: +61 2 4921 6428 [email protected]

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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

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PhD (Education)

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Shape the future of education with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education.

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• intending to study on a student visa, or
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• not a a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

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Research Training Scheme

See admissions

AU$32,640 (2025 annual)

Shape the future of education with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education by promoting the interdependence of research, learning and change

RMIT’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education cultivates high-level skills in research processes, communication, analysis and synthesis of knowledge in education.

Graduates of this doctorate degree will develop the skills required to conduct independent research.

Individually supervised research programs are available in:

• primary education
• secondary education
• early childhood education
• information and communication technology (ICT) and educational curriculum
• higher education
• discipline specific-areas – literacy, numeracy, science, arts and creative arts, social science, curriculum design and sustainability.

What you will gain through this program

Through undertaking an original, substantial and rigorous research project, you will contribute to the knowledge base in your chosen field.

You will develop a thesis or research project that makes a substantial and original contribution to an existing body of knowledge.

How you will learn

Research at rmit, time spent on research.

Full-time candidates are expected to commit at least four days per week (or at least two days per week for part-time candidates) to their research. The academic year is 48 weeks.

Regular contact with your supervisor

A schedule of meetings with your supervisor/s must be established to assess progress against milestones and timely completion.

Resources, facilities and support

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

You will be part of an active research community and have access to resources and workshops to help you succeed.

School of Graduate Research

The School of Graduate Research works with Schools to further support candidates during their postgraduate research degree.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

Learning outcomes

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the  learning outcomes .

Electives and course plan

You will complete this program under academic supervision.

The PhD program is structured to enable you to:

• complete a compulsory research methods course
• receive training in research integrity and ethics
• select studies in qualitative and quantitative research techniques
• complete a thesis/project which demonstrates your original contribution to the field and your ability to communicate complex or original research for peers and the community to an international standard

Research integrity modules

You are required to complete the online modules:

• Research integrity
• Copyright and intellectual property

Research methods for engineering and related disciplines

Research methods courses step you through the literature review and preparing your research proposal for confirmation of candidature. They are taught in large discipline groups.

You may need to complete an ethics module to ensure your research is ethical and responsible.

Research techniques

You may elect to take (where relevant) electives in qualitative or quantitative research techniques once data collection has begun. You can use your own data to explore different research analysis techniques. Your supervisor will help you decide when you should take these electives.

Co-curricular activities

You are encouraged to participate in activities offered with the university, college and school according to your needs and interests.

This PhD may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode. Prospective candidates should discuss these modes of submission with their potential supervisor/s.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time and 8 years part-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent and 6-8 years part-time equivalent.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

This program equips you with a nationally and internationally recognised qualification. Graduates are employed in tertiary academic positions, research centres and institutes, and senior leadership and management positions in a variety of education environments.

You may also be employed in senior leadership and management positions in government, non-government organisations and corporations.

Entry requirements and admissions

Minimum requirements for admission, prerequisites, selection tasks.

The minimum requirements for admission to a PhD program are:

• A bachelor's degree requiring at least four (4) years of full-time study in a relevant discipline awarded with honours. The degree should include a research component comprised of a thesis, other research projects or research methodology subjects that constitute at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent). The applicant must have achieved at least a distinction average in the final year.  OR
• A master's degree that includes a research component comprised of at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent) with an overall distinction average; OR 
• A master's degree without a research component with at least a high distinction average;  OR
• Evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and/or experience that satisfies the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training and Development or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program.

At RMIT a grade of distinction represents academic achievement of 70% or higher and a high distinction is 80% or higher.

If you are a current master by research candidate, you are able to apply for a transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the  RMIT Higher Degree by Research policy .

These entrance requirements are the minimum academic standard you must meet in order to be eligible to apply for the program. You will need to complete a selection task as part of your application.

A selection process will be conducted in conjunction with the School and supervisors you nominate.

For further information on the steps you need to take to apply for a research program see  How to apply – Research programs .

English language requirements

Research proposal and supervisor.

You must attach a substantive research proposal that is 2 to 5 pages in length which articulates the intent, significance and originality of the proposed topic using the following headings:

a) title / topic b) research questions to be investigated in the context of existing research/literature in the area c) significance and impact of the research d) methodology / research tasks required to undertake the research e) particular needs (e.g. resources, facilities, fieldwork or equipment that are necessary for your proposed research program, if applicable).

Your application will not be considered if you have not discussed your research topic with a proposed senior and associate supervisor or joint senior supervisors. You must provide the names of the academic staff in the school you have applied to and with whom you have discussed your proposed research.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

• IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
• TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit  English language requirements and equivalency information .

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at  RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP) .

You can gain entry to this program from a range of RMIT four-year  Bachelor and Honours degrees  or  Postgraduate  or Masters by Research programs.

Fee summary

Fee information for masters by research and doctorate (PhD) programs.

If you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen you may be eligible for a Research Training Scheme (RTS) place where your tuition costs are funded by the Commonwealth Government under the RTS and you have full exemption from tuition fees.

Acceptance in an RTS place is very competitive and places are granted on the condition that you meet annual progress requirements and complete within the allotted time for your program and your status as a part-time or full-time candidate.

This means a maximum of 2 years for a full-time Masters by Research or 4 years for a PhD (or the equivalent part-time).

Contact the School of Graduate Research for more information.

The  student services and amenities fee (SSAF)  is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

In addition to the SSAF there may be  other expenses  associated with your program.

Income tax deductions

Candidates may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to their employment. See the  Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website  for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

International applicants

• Fees information  for international candidates looking to study at RMIT's Melbourne campuses.
• PhD  and  masters by research  fees for international candidates studying offshore. 

Other costs

Important fee information.

Find out more details about  how fees are calculated  and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a  refund  as a continuing international student.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information.

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

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Need help ask notre dame.

Prospective Student Office 1800 878 916

International Office +61 (08) 9433 0873 - WA +61 (02) 8204 4229 - NSW & VIC

• Duration 3 years full-time or equivalent part-time
• Duration type Full time; Part time
• Location Fremantle; Sydney
• Study mode External; On campus
• Commencement Semester 1; Semester 2
• Program code 6200
• CRICOS code 032064G
• Fee International Full Fees; Research Training Program (RTP)

Doctor of Education

If you are a leader in education or an aspiring leader in a school, university or TAFE looking to achieve academic excellence, our Doctor of Education could be the qualification for you. Admittance to the doctorate program will be dependent on your ability to demonstrate the potential to complete doctoral coursework and research, possess professional educational experience and have satisfactory research experience as determined by the Dean of the School of Education. Contact us today to see if you qualify.

About this program

Are you a leader in education with a desire to research an area of interest to further your career? The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Doctor of Education consists of four courses of study relating to research methodology and scholarly writing as well as a research component related to the education profession.

The research component can either be several peer-reviewed research papers or a thesis. As a candidate, you will collect, analyse, and interpret data in an area of education of interest to you. You will have the option of completing your doctorate 3 years full-time or the equivalent part-time.

You will be supervised by a team of at least two School of Education lecturers. If your research component is by publication, the degree is awarded based on four coursework courses and a portfolio of a minimum of four peer-reviewed journal articles. Alternatively, if your research component is by thesis the portfolio of journal articles will be replaced by a thesis of approximately 60,000 words.

Program summary

• RSCH7000 Quantitative Research Methods
• RSCH7001 Qualitative Research Methods
• RSCH7002 Scholarly Reading and Writing
• RSCH7003 Developing a Research Proposal
• RSCH7039 Supervised Research - Education

The Professional Doctorate comprises coursework and a substantial research component leading to the submission of a thesis. The coursework component includes four compulsory research training courses to be completed as a prerequisite to your individual research project. The coursework will provide opportunities for you to formulate substantial elements of your planned research (e.g. topic refinement, identification and justification of the preferred research method(s), preparation of a draft proposal), and to develop personal competencies in critical analysis and scholarly writing relevant to your profession.

The completion of the coursework is facilitated by a course delivery schedule which takes into consideration that you may also be in employment during your candidature.

Full details of the program are contained in the Program Requirements .

More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions pages  Fremantle Sydney .

Please note: the availability of these courses is indicative only and may be subject to change.

Research focus

The following areas provide a broad coverage of current research activities either through collaboration with external bodies, doctoral supervision, publications or conference presentations.

• Assistive technologies for special needs students
• Early childhood education
• Educational policy
• Effective teaching
• Implementation of information communication technology in schools
• Leadership in Catholic schools
• Middle schooling and transition
• Religious education
• Service learning and student leadership
• The beginning principal
• Values education

Supervision

As a doctoral candidate, you are required to have a minimum of two supervisors who will provide support and academic guidance throughout your degree. Your academic supervisors will be complemented by a professional mentor, who has expertise in the industry or profession relevant to your research area.

Your supervisors and professional mentors will assist you with the preparation of your research proposal, continuing to mentor and direct you throughout the research phase and through the process of examination.

Mode of study and assessment

You may undertake the program either in a full-time or part-time capacity. The standard time for completion (not including periods of approved leave of absence) will normally be three years for a full-time student and six years for a part-time student.

The assessment of the coursework component consists of written assignments while the research component is assessed by examination of the thesis by three external reviewers.

Entry requirements

The following criteria apply to students seeking admission to the Professional Doctorate program:

• The Pro Vice Chancellor-Research, on the advice of the Dean of the School, determines admission to the Doctor of Education Award.
• Possession of a research Masters degree by thesis or dissertation appropriate to the professional field of the applicant; or
• Possession of a Masters degree by coursework appropriate to the professional field of the applicant completed at a superior standard; or
• Possession of a Bachelor’s degree with Honours (typically 1st Class or Class 2A Honours level or equivalent); or
• Possession of a Master of Philosophy; or
• In exceptional circumstances, an equivalent academic or professional background that is considered by the Dean of the School to be an appropriate preparation for independent study and research work at Doctoral level.
• An applicant may be required to satisfy the Dean of the School of the ability to understand and communicate in both written and spoken English at a level adequate for the purpose of pursuing the program of study.
• have a minimum of 3 years of relevant professional practice;
• have the support of an industry or professional mentor.

You may be required to demonstrate an ability to understand and communicate in both written and spoken English at a level adequate for the purpose of pursuing the program of study.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Doctor of Education graduates will be able to:

• Apply expert, specialised cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a substantial research project that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge, professional practice and/or creative practice
• Synthesise, evaluate, and critically analyse a substantial and complex body of knowledge and/or practice at the frontier of a field/s of research
• Communicate research findings clearly and fluently, to both peers and the community
• Apply knowledge of research integrity, ethics and the rights and safety of others in the conduct of research and dissemination of research findings; and
• Conduct research with intellectual independence, creativity, adaptability, responsibility, and accountability.

Career opportunities

A doctorate in Education will allow you to achieve academic excellence through exploration and research while preparing you for a leadership role in your chosen field.

Real-world experience

You will learn from our academics, who are leaders in their field. There are no practicum requirements for this program.

Domestic Students

In accordance with the Commonwealth Scholarships Guidelines (Research) 2017, domestic research students are eligible to have all Higher Degree by Research (HDR) course fees paid for by the Commonwealth Government through a Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship for the length of their degree. Domestic students are also encouraged to apply for stipend scholarships, which are very competitive and awarded to students of exceptional research potential. The scholarships designed to help with general living costs for the duration of the research degree.

International Students

The University is keen to support high calibre international students who are eligible to apply for Commonwealth Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships (Fees Offset and/or Stipend), and the University International Fee Remission Research Scholarship (IFRRS), which are very competitive and awarded to students of exceptional research potential. Please refer to the International Prospectus or visit our Scholarships section if you would like more information. Unless in receipt of a scholarship, all international research students must pay full fees for the length of their research degree.

Fees and costs

This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

International Full-Fee Paying Tuition costs depend on an international student’s study load and discipline. Fees are payable each semester at least four weeks prior to the commencement of your program.

Research Training Program (RTP) The Research Training Program (RTP) provides block grants to support students who are undertaking a Higher Degree by Research such as a Research Doctorate or Research Masters degree. You will receive support for a maximum of two years for a Research Masters and a maximum of four years for a Research Doctorate degree. Your offer will specify for which purpose(s) your grant may be used. This may include offset of your tuition fees, as a stipend for general living costs or as an allowance related to the ancillary cost of research degrees.

For indicative fees and information on Postgraduate and Research Scholarships available, please visit our HDR Scholarships page.

For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page .

More information

View application steps for a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program on How to apply - Graduate research .

Considering your uni options? Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process.

If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, the Prospective Students Office can help. Book a 1-on-1 advice session with a career advisor or call us on 1800 878 916.

Fremantle and Broome Email:  [email protected] Address: 23 High St, Fremantle, WA 6160

Sydney and Melbourne Email:  [email protected] Address:  128-140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008

International students If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame you can book a session with an International Student Advisor at [email protected] .

Fremantle and Broome

Phone: +61 8 9433 0873 Address: 19 Mouat St, Fremantle, WA 6160 Postal address: PO Box 1225, Fremantle WA 6959

Sydney and Melbourne

Phone: +61 2 8204 4229 Address: 140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008 Postal address: PO Box 944, Broadway NSW 2007

Other programs you may like

• Master of Education (Special and Inclusive Education)
• Graduate Certificate in Education (Curriculum)
• Master of Education (Curriculum)
• Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching in Higher Education

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No.1 uni in Australia Overall Employment**

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*2021 Graduate Outcomes Survey, undergraduate and postgraduate coursework categories, **2021 Graduate Outcomes Survey-Longitudinal (medium term outcome), undergraduate category, ***2021 Student Experience Survey, postgraduate category and ****2021 Student Experience Survey, postgraduate category -  qilt.edu.au