Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This professional doctorate combines taught research and advanced practice modules with a substantial practice-based research project. Early stages typically focus on research methods (qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods), critical perspectives on coaching and mentoring theory, ethics and professional practice, and approaches to evaluating impact in organisational contexts.

Later stages are devoted to a sustained practice-based enquiry. Candidates develop and submit a portfolio that demonstrates original contribution to professional knowledge and practice, accompanied by a critical commentary that situates the work within relevant literatures and research paradigms. Supervision emphasises the integration of scholarly rigour with practitioner expertise, and candidates are supported to use multiple data sources and reflective practice approaches.

• Advanced research methods for practice
• Theory and critique in coaching and mentoring
• Designing and evaluating interventions
• Ethics, diversity and professionalism in coaching and mentoring
• Practice-based enquiry and reflective research methodologies
• Scholarly writing and dissemination for practitioner-researchers

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant Master's degree (or equivalent) and to demonstrate substantial, recent professional experience in coaching, mentoring, leadership development or a closely related field. Typical applicants will be senior or experienced practitioners who can evidence sustained practice, client impact, and a clear, practice-focused research proposal.

Oxford Brookes will consider applicants without a Master’s where there is evidence of extensive professional experience and previous learning at an advanced level. Applications normally require a CV, a statement of purpose or research proposal that outlines the workplace problem to be addressed, and references; shortlisted candidates are usually invited to interview.

International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements for doctoral study and provide documentation of prior qualifications and professional experience as part of the assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates from this professional doctorate progress into senior and strategic roles where advanced research-informed practice is required. Common career pathways include:

• Senior executive or leadership coach, working independently or with organisations
• Head of coaching, mentorship or talent & leadership development in public, private or third-sector organisations
• Consultant specialising in organisational change, capability building and evaluation
• Academic or practitioner-educator in coaching, mentoring and professional development programmes
• Researcher or evaluator in applied behavioural science, HR analytics or organisational development

The professional doctorate is also suited to those wishing to publish practice-informed research, influence policy and practice in professional bodies, or develop doctoral-level training and supervision capabilities.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers this professional doctorate within a university context that supports applied and practice-based research. Candidates benefit from experienced supervisors with backgrounds in coaching, mentoring and organisational development, and from a collegial research environment that values practitioner-led enquiry.

The university maintains links with organisations across sectors, enabling real-world access for practice-based projects and opportunities to test interventions in live settings. Emphasis on professional relevance, combined with doctoral-level rigour, makes the programme appropriate for practitioners seeking sustained impact on both practice and scholarship.

Support services available to doctoral candidates include research training, writing support, access to university resources and networks, and opportunities to present and publish work within academic and practitioner communities.