Educational Research

The Doctor of Education is designed for practicing professionals who seek to lead change and innovation in education. Students will gain expertise in pedagogical theory and practice while designing and conducting a significant body of original research. This thesis-based degree is designed to match the busy lifestyles of people in education-related occupations and organizations, allowing students to pursue scholarship while working. While the degree is structured as a blended, three-year program that includes course work, candidacy and dissertation, students are allowed up to six years to complete all degree requirements.

Completing this program

• Core Courses: Students complete four specialization courses and research courses in participatory methodology in education, design-based research or action research. Students also complete two collaboratories of practice courses and two dissertation seminars.
• Candidacy: Students will complete a research proposal and both oral and written candidacy exams.
• Additional Courses: Students may complete additional research courses as electives.
• Dissertation: Students will be required to submit and defend an original research dissertation.

Specializations

• Full list of current specializations

School superintendent, school principal, post-secondary/continuing education administrator, Not-for-profit organization, medical doctor, health care organization, Corporate sector, Public/private education, School management, Education policy and governance.

The EdD in educational research is usually considered a final degree.

1. Collect your documentation

   • Check your program requirements to find out which documents and forms you will need to prepare.
   • See the program's list of required documents for submission details.
   • Prospective doctoral students with funding from the China Scholarship Council: see additional information.

2. Gather references (if required)

   • Contact past professors for potential references. We will invite your referees to complete an online reference form after you submit your application.
   • Some course-based programs do not require references, please see specific admission requirements if you are unsure.

3. Begin your application

   • Create an eID to log in. If you already have an eID, you can begin your online application. 
   • Once you begin, remember to click 'Save & Continue' often to ensure your application is saved.

4. Submit your application

   • Pay your application fee:
     • $125 for Canadians or Permanent residents
     • $145 for International Students
   • Learn about payment options here