- Duration
- Part-time: 4 to 6 years
- Next start date
- Semester One 2026
- Available locations
- City
- Points
- 360
- Programme type
- Doctorate
Programme overview
*Please note, while the EdD is not accepting applications for 2026, the PhD programme is. You can find more information here.
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.
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 Theoretical 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.
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 required2nd 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 requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 5.5
- Masters-level qualification in education
- Evidence of significant research, usually undertaken as part of prior study
-
QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
No bands less than 6.0
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.
How much does a Doctor of Education cost per year?
2025 fees
- Domestic students
- NZ$7,659.60*
- International students
- NZ$52,770*
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 $9.24 per point, estimated at $1,108.80 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment.
*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.
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.
Key dates
Start dates
The next start date is February 2026.
Application closing dates
- Semester One 2024
- 1 December 2023
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 Student Hubs.
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 leaders
- Tertiary sector professionals
Mirko enrolled in the Doctor of Education to help improve students' understanding of primary mathematics by coaching parents online.
Meet MirkoStudent career planning service
Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.
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