City

What you'll study

The PhD in Education is a research-led programme centred on the completion of an original doctoral thesis. Candidates design and carry out an extended piece of empirical or theoretical research under the guidance of a supervisory team. Typical areas of research supervision include educational policy and leadership, teacher education and professional learning, inclusion and special educational needs, assessment and curriculum studies, comparative and international education, and educational technology and innovation.

Although the emphasis is on independent research, students undertake structured research training and methodological development. Typical taught or seminar components and activities include:

• Advanced qualitative methods (e.g. narrative, ethnography, grounded theory, discourse analysis)
• Advanced quantitative methods (e.g. multilevel modelling, longitudinal analysis, survey design)
• Mixed-methods design and practice
• Research ethics, governance and working with vulnerable groups
• Theory and philosophy of education (research design, conceptual frameworks)
• Professional development seminars, writing for publication and knowledge exchange

Progress is monitored through annual reviews, presentations at internal seminars and a formal upgrade from MPhil to PhD stage (where applicable). The degree culminates in submission of a thesis and an oral examination (viva voce).

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good master's degree in education or a closely related discipline (for example educational psychology, social policy, sociology, or a subject-specific teaching qualification plus postgraduate study). Exceptional candidates with substantial professional experience and evidence of research potential may be considered.

Applications should include a clear research proposal outlining the research questions, proposed methods, and relevance of the project; academic transcripts; a CV; and two academic or professional references. Shortlisted applicants are usually interviewed by potential supervisors. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English according to the university's standard requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Education pursue a wide range of careers across academia, the public sector, and the private and voluntary sectors. Common pathways include:

• Academic posts: lecturer, researcher or postdoctoral researcher in universities and teacher education institutions
• Educational research: roles in government departments, research councils, think tanks and independent research organisations
• School and college leadership: senior leadership, curriculum development and specialist roles within schools and multi‑academy trusts
• Policy and consultancy: policy advisor, consultant for education NGOs, international agencies or private sector education providers
• Knowledge exchange and publishing: roles in educational publishing, professional development, or continuing professional learning

Why study at City

City offers a research-rich environment with close links to London schools, local education authorities and national policy networks. Students benefit from experienced supervisors working across a range of education-related disciplines and interdisciplinary collaboration across social sciences, health and professional education. The university provides dedicated research training, seminar series and regular opportunities to present work-in-progress. Being based in London gives PhD students access to a wide network of partner organisations, archives, and research sites, enhancing opportunities for fieldwork, placements and impact-focused projects.