Program Overview

Introduction to the Doctor of Philosophy in Education

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education (DEd) is a highly advanced research-based qualification that aims to equip graduates with professional skills, applied competence, and high-level intellectual development in the field of Education, Training, and Development.

Purpose Statement

The primary purpose of the DEd qualification is to attain highly advanced knowledge, professional skills, and applied competence through educational research. Graduates will experience continued personal growth, opportunities for gainful employment as specialized educationists, and contribute creatively to educational research and development.

Qualification Details

• Qualification stream: Socio-Education
• Qualification code: 90019 - SED
• Qualification type: Full Research
• NQF level: 10
• Total credits: 360
• SAQA ID: 96477

Admission Requirements

• An appropriate Master of Education Degree with an average of 60%.
• A transcript or academic record, as well as a document describing the intended research.
• Students are accepted based on the suitability and viability of the intended research, adequate supervisory capacity, and research expertise in the discipline or department.
• Foreign qualifications must be evaluated at SAQA.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) criteria include being at least 23 years old, having achieved an overall final mark of between 50-59% from the previous Master of Education degree, and having at least five years' relevant teaching experience.

Time Limits for the Degree

• The study programme must be completed within six years.
• An application for an additional year of study may be considered by the Registrar if recommended by the Executive Dean of the College.

Doctoral Degree Overview

A doctoral degree requires undertaking research at advanced academic levels, culminating in the submission, assessment, and acceptance of a thesis. Coursework may be required as preparation but does not contribute to the credit value of the qualification.

Research Focus Areas

Research focus areas are available in various departments, including the College of Education. A detailed research outline is required for admission, which must align with one of the departmental research focus areas and incorporate at least one of Unisa's Catalytic Niche Areas.

Catalytic Niche Areas

1. Marine studies
2. Aviation and aeronautical studies
3. Automotive
4. Energy
5. Space study and square kilometre array
6. Fourth IR and digitalisation
7. Natural sciences (biotechnological studies)
8. Health studies/medicine
9. Feminist, womanist and bosadi theorisations
10. Student support and co-curricular activities

Student Fees and Funding

• An online application fee of R150.00 is required.
• Student fees for the 2026 academic year will be available at the time of registration.
• Information on student funding and bursary opportunities is available.

Application and Registration

Applications for master's and doctoral qualifications are accepted until a specified date. To apply, one must first apply for a Unisa student number (if applicable) and then apply for admission, uploading all supporting documents within 10 working days.

Curriculum

Registration and curriculum information is provided, including details on coursework and research requirements.