Duration
Part-time: 4 to 6 years
Next start date
1 March 2022
Available locations
Epsom
Points
360
Programme type
Doctorate

Programme overview

The EdD programme is designed with working professionals in mind, providing a flexible and convenient approach to further study. Undertaking an EdD will enable you to generate new knowledge to advance educational practice and policy in Aotearoa New Zealand and other contexts. 

The EdD is a unique, cohort-based doctoral programme where students work with cohort lecturers for the first two years and then with their own research supervisors, who have knowledge and expertise in their area of study and a range of research methods. A Doctor of Education degree has the same status as a PhD.

In March 2022 the School of Critical Studies in Education is launching a cohort for those interested in examining how social institutions can be spaces that encourage inclusivity and sustainability.

Find out more about the Doctor of Education 2022 theme: Making Space for Inclusivity and Sustainability.

We also welcome you to register for our free webinar on Thursday 4 November to learn more about the programme and meet its leaders.

Programme structure

Candidates have the support of two supervisors throughout the whole degree.

Part One

Part One is a part-time only, two-year research portfolio (120 points). It involves guided, cohort-based work, which leads to a thesis proposal reflecting individual research interests.  

The courses you will enrol in are:

  • EDUC 801 Literature Review (30 Points)
  • EDUC 802 Theortical Framework (30 Points)
  • EDUC 803 Study Design (30 Points)
  • EDUC 804 Thesis Proposal (30 Points)

At the end of the second year of Part One, candidates will submit a research portfolio and present a public confirmation seminar. This is required for entry into Part Two of the degree.

Part Two

Part Two is a thesis of original research, building on the work completed in Part One.

This is completed within two full-time or four part-time years. Cohort seminars will provide guidance on research methods undertaken during the thesis component and to extend cohort structure and supports throughout the programme.

The course you will enrol in is:

  • EDPROFST 897 Thesis (240 points)

Assessment of the thesis includes an oral examination. 

Contact our Student Centre for more information on the 2022 Doctor of Education inquiry pathway.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:

Programme requirements

Minimum programme requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

  • Grade required
    2nd class division i
    • Masters or honours degree in an education-related field
    • Evidence of significant research, usually undertaken as part of prior study

Further programme requirements

Supervision and research requirements

Meeting our academic requirements does not guarantee entry.

You must demonstrate an ability to research independently, and possess a high level of theoretical understanding. Acceptance is subject to staff availability for supervision, and appropriate resources and facilities.

You must write an initial statement of research intent to demonstrate your research capability and experience.

Programme-specific requirements

You must have at least two years’ professional experience in education or an education-related field.

You must be living in New Zealand to undertake this programme as it structured as part-time study for the first two years.

How to apply

Check out our guide to applying for a PhD or doctorate.

Programme requirements

Minimum programme requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

  • Grade required
    GPE Grade Point Equivalent 5.5
    • Masters-level qualification in education
    • Evidence of significant research, usually undertaken as part of prior study
  • Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.5

    No bands less than 6.0

    See alternative English language requirements

Calculate your Grade Point Equivalent (GPE)

Further programme requirements

Supervision and research requirements

Meeting our academic requirements does not guarantee entry.

You must demonstrate an ability to research independently, and possess a high level of theoretical understanding. Acceptance is subject to staff availability for supervision, and appropriate resources and facilities.

You must write an initial statement of research intent to demonstrate your research capability and experience.

All students must meet our English-language requirements as a condition of entry.

Programme-specific requirements

You must have at least two years’ professional experience in education or an education-related field.

You must be living in New Zealand to undertake this programme as it structured as part-time study for the first two years.

How to apply

Check out our guide to applying for a PhD or doctorate.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

How much does a Doctor of Education cost per year?

2021 fees

Domestic students
NZ$7,329.60*
International students
NZ$44,464.80*

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.02 per point, estimated at $962.40 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Key dates

Start dates

The next start date is 2021 Semester One: 1 March

Applications are still open
Applications are currently open for this programme. We will consider late applications if places are still available. 

Application closing dates

Semester One 2022
1 December 2021
For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

As part of the application process for the EdD, you need to provide an outline of your proposed research project. Although you are not required to nominate a doctoral supervisor as part of your initial application, you can also look at supervisor profiles and research projects through Finding a Supervisor, or contact our Doctoral and Postgraduate Research Coordinator for further advice.

Doctoral and Postgraduate Research Coordinator
Rebecca Hartnett
Email: r.hartnett@auckland.ac.nz
Phone: +64 9 623 8899 ext 48525

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Where could this programme take you?

The EdD is an international benchmark of professional policy and practice research. It is designed for professionals in any education-related role who want to extend their knowledge and expertise and apply this to their professional practice.

Jobs related to this programme

  • Educational or public policy consultants
  • Public and private sector learning facilitators
  • Teaching or school leadership
  • Tertiary sector professionals
Maia Hetaraka: Doctor of Education research student

Riripeti Haretuku

Riripeti enrolled in the Doctor of Education to help whānau by improving her research skills and becoming an effective Maōri health advocate.

Meet Riripeti

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