Original research shaping teaching, policy, and learning science
Online only
The PhD Education programme supports scholars investigating how people learn and how systems enable or constrain that learning. Research areas include EdTech efficacy, inclusive pedagogy, teacher professional development, and higher-education policy. You will complete doctoral coursework, pass candidacy, and produce a dissertation contributing new knowledge — with pathways for practising educators researching their own institutions.
The 60-credit pathway combines advanced Year 1 coursework with multi-year supervised research. Practitioner-researchers may study problems of practice within their institutions under ethical governance; career academicians focus on theory-building publications and conference dissemination.
Faculty spotlight
Professor Alex Morgan leads learning-sciences research; Dr. Aisha Okonkwo specialises in comparative education in Africa and the UK.
Interactive modules, weekly readings, recorded and live seminars, and collaborative discussions with peers worldwide.
Module assignments, proctored examinations, and capstone projects designed to demonstrate mastery of the field.
Modules are assessed through a published mix of coursework, applied projects, and examinations. Exam windows are announced in advance so students in other time zones are not forced into overnight sittings. Alternative arrangements are available where documented.
The published duration is 3–5 years. Teaching language: English. Actual time-to-complete depends on mode and any recognised prior learning.
This is a fully online award. You study from your country. No student visa and no campus relocation are required.
Degree tuition for this award is published as £0 / tuition-free on the online pathway. Examination or administrative fees may apply at checkout — never an annual tuition invoice. Check the Fees page for any extras.
Requirements are grouped on this page (academic, English, documents, research). Equivalent qualifications are considered. English may be waived after prior English-medium study.
Assessment is typically a mix of coursework, projects, and examinations. Doctoral awards include a thesis or dissertation and an oral examination. Details sit in the programme specification and module outlines.
Recognition of the award for local employment, professional licence, or ministry attestation is decided by your employer or regulator. The University of Edinburgh publishes verification pages for certificates. We do not claim automatic equivalence in every country.
Start an application on this website. Progress is saved from the first step. Admissions: admissions@edinac.uk.
Study online
Every programme can be completed fully online with zero tuition fees — study from anywhere in the world.
Accreditation & recognition
