Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

PhD research degrees in Education at Nottingham Trent University are individually tailored, student-led research programmes supervised by experienced academic staff. You will develop and complete an original piece of independent research that makes a substantive contribution to knowledge in your chosen area of education. Typical research themes supported include teacher education and professional learning, educational leadership and policy, inclusion and special educational needs, curriculum and assessment, lifelong learning and adult education, digital learning and educational technology, and comparative and international education.

Training and development typically include research methods and advanced methodological workshops (qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods), research ethics and governance, and opportunities for professional development such as academic writing, publishing, grant-writing and research impact. You may also take part in specialised research seminars, reading groups and interdisciplinary events within the Faculty and the university’s research centres. Where appropriate, PhD candidates can engage in taught postgraduate modules to strengthen methodological skills, and there are opportunities to gain teaching experience through supervised teaching or demonstrating.

The doctoral process involves proposal development and approval, a programme of supervised research, periodic progress review/confirmation of candidature, and submission of a doctoral thesis followed by an oral examination (viva voce). The final thesis will be a sustained, rigorous piece of research presented to doctoral standards, and may be accompanied by other outputs where permitted by the university’s regulations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree with a substantial research component (for example a dissertation) or an equivalent qualification or professional experience that demonstrates capacity to undertake doctoral-level research. A strong honours degree may be acceptable in combination with significant research experience.

Key application elements include a clear research proposal outlining your research questions, methodology and contribution, a CV, academic transcripts, and references. Shortlisted candidates are often invited to an interview with potential supervisors and the research team to discuss fit and feasibility, including ethical considerations and access to any required field sites.

International applicants or those whose first language is not English will need to provide evidence of English language proficiency in line with university requirements. Additional checks may apply where research involves working with children or vulnerable adults, such as enhanced disclosure or safeguarding clearances.

Career prospects

A PhD in Education from Nottingham Trent University prepares graduates for a wide range of academic and professional roles. Common career paths include university and college teaching and research posts, researcher roles in government departments and research councils, policy analysis and advisory positions, leadership and senior management roles in schools and colleges, consultancy in curriculum development and professional learning, roles within educational charities and NGOs, and positions in the educational technology sector.

Graduates also go on to work in evidence-informed practice and evaluation roles within local authorities and public services, lead practitioner research in schools, or progress to senior roles in teacher education and professional development. The doctoral training you receive—research design, critical analysis, dissemination and impact planning—is valued across public, private and third-sector organisations.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers a supportive research environment with experienced supervisors across a broad range of education specialisms and strong links to local schools, colleges and education partners. The university promotes interdisciplinary collaboration through its research centres and forums, giving doctoral researchers opportunities to work alongside colleagues in social sciences, psychology, health and business.

As a doctoral researcher you will have access to structured research training, regular seminar series, funding advice and development opportunities provided by the university’s graduate community. Facilities include well-resourced libraries, research software support and routes for public engagement and impact activity. The university’s emphasis on applied and socially engaged research provides scope to pursue projects that influence practice and policy as well as contribute to scholarly debates.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential supervisors within the School to discuss research ideas and supervisory arrangements before applying, to ensure a good match between the proposed project and staff expertise.