EdD (Doctorate of Education)

Course Summary

The Doctorate of Education (EdD) is the premier academic qualification for experienced professionals working in the education sector. The EdD is ideally suited to those who benefit from studying in a structured, collegiate environment with the first two years comprising taught modules. These modules enable the development of research skills and the intellectual rigour demanded of professionals at doctoral level. They also provide the foundation for the subsequent period of study, the thesis stage, during which a thesis is written focused on an area of professional interest.

About This Course

The EdD (Doctorate of Education) is designed for those who intend to extend their professional development and understanding through research and reflection on practice. It is a part-time programme, typically taking 5 years to complete. The EdD is delivered entirely at BGU with the degree itself awarded by the University of Leicester.

The EdD comprises two stages. The first consists of five taught modules which are taken over the first two years of the programme. Sessions are delivered at weekends with tutorial and peer support provided in between, enabling you to combine your study with work commitments. The modules incorporate a variety of teaching and learning strategies covering a range of core research skills contextualised in professional issues. Sessions enable the systematic development of the high level of skills and knowledge required at doctoral level. Upon successful completion of the taught phase, you progress to the thesis stage. Here, you produce a thesis which is intended to provide an original contribution to professional knowledge and understanding in a focused area of enquiry.

What You Will Study

Students on this course currently study all of the following modules. Unless they have transferred from a doctorate at another organisation, and can provide documentary evidence of successful completed modules studied at doctorate level.

• Engaging with and reviewing the research literature
• Research methods in education
• Handling and interrogating data
• Applied research design
• Thesis proposal
• Thesis

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for an EdD are normally a 2:1 or 1st Bachelors Honours Degree and a Master’s degreeand at least three years’ professional experience. At the point of application, you will be able to demonstrate that you have already identified a potential research project within a chosen discipline or field of enquiry, which you should be able to discuss at an interview. It is a part-time programme, typically taking 5 years to complete. The EdD is validated by the University of Leicester but will be delivered at BGU.

Recognition of Prior Learning

If you’ve recently completed or studied a particular module as part of a previous qualification at another organisation, this may mean that you’re not required to undertake a particular module of your BGU course. However this must be agreed in writing at the start of the course and you must submit a formal application requesting such an exception.

How You Will Be Taught

The first four taught modules are assessed by means of a 5,000 word written assignment or equivalent. The fifth module, the "transfer" module, is a 10,000 word thesis proposal. At the end of the transfer module, you will also complete a peer presentation. You must successfully complete both the 10,000 word assessment and the presentation in order to progress.

Upon successful progression to the final stage, you will prepare a thesis of not more than 55,000 words. Your thesis will be examined by an oral examination or ‘viva’ conducted by expert academics in the discipline or field of enquiry. Your thesis should make an original contribution to knowledge and be of publishable quality. Tutor support is provided for each assessment component and throughout the final thesis stage.

Careers & Further Study

In an increasingly competitive professional environment, possession of an EdD and the title of ‘Doctor’ will distinguish you from the majority of colleagues. You will have critically evaluated your own professional practice and its relationship with theory, designed and conducted your own research, and gained increased professional confidence, all of which can enhance your opportunities for career progression.

How to Apply

Enquiries about the EdD should be directed to Dr Sheine Peart, Associate Professor in Access, Equality and Inclusion.

There is a single annual entry point each October. The final date for receipt of applications for an Autumn start of the same year, is the Tuesday immediately after the second August bank holiday.

• October 2025: 26th August 2025
• October 2026: 1st September 2026
• October 2027: 31st August 2027
• October 2028: 29th August 2028

As part of your application, you will need to provide a summary of your current or proposed research. In addition, you must submit a 2500-word research proposal, including 10 - 15 relevant references. These can be attached as a Word document using the document upload function during the online application process.

---

Degree Overview:

The EdD (Doctorate of Education) program at Bishop Grosseteste University caters to experienced professionals in the education sector aiming to extend their professional development and understanding through research and reflection on practice. This part-time program typically takes 5 years to complete and is delivered entirely at BGU with the degree itself awarded by the University of Leicester.

---

Learning Outcomes:

• Develop advanced research skills and the intellectual rigor required at the doctoral level.
• Conduct an original research project and write a thesis that makes a substantial contribution to professional knowledge and understanding in a focused area of inquiry.
• Apply research findings to improve professional practice and contribute to the advancement of the education sector.
• Develop advanced communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.

---

Outline:

---

Program Structure:

• Part-time: Designed to be completed over five years while balancing professional commitments.
• Modular: Five taught modules are delivered over the first two years, followed by a thesis stage.

---

Course Modules:

• Engaging with and reviewing the research literature
• Research methods in education
• Handling and interrogating data
• Applied research design
• Thesis proposal
• Thesis (55,000 words)

---

Assessment:

• Taught modules: Assessed through 5,000 word written assignments or equivalent.
• Thesis proposal: 10,000 word assessment and presentation.
• Thesis: Evaluated through a viva (oral examination) conducted by expert academics.

---

Teaching:

• Experienced faculty: Comprised of researchers and scholars actively engaged in the field of education.
• Collaborative and supportive environment: Emphasis on peer learning and exchange of ideas.
• Tutor support: Provided throughout the program for each assessment component and the final thesis stage.

---

Careers:

• Enhanced opportunities for career progression in various education settings.
• Potential leadership and management roles within educational institutions.
• Opportunities to engage in research, consultancy, and policy development.

---

Other:

• Entry requirements: 2:1 or 1st Bachelors Honours Degree, Master's degree, and at least three years' professional experience.
• Recognition of Prior Learning: May be granted for relevant modules previously studied at another institution.
• How to Apply: Submit an application form, research proposal, and references through the BGU admissions portal.
• Open Evenings: BGU offers open evenings for prospective students to experience the campus and university life.
• Research department and facilities: BGU provides dedicated research resources and support to doctoral students.
• Accessibility Statement: BGU is committed to providing equal access to all students, including those with disabilities.
• The program has a single annual entry point in October.
• The application deadline for the October 2024 intake is Tuesday, August 27, 2024.

Bishop Grosseteste University: A Summary

---

Overview:

Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is a public university located in Lincoln, England. It is known for its high student satisfaction rates, ranking first in the UK for student satisfaction according to the Times Higher Education. BGU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with a particular focus on teacher training and other education-related programs.

---

Services Offered:

BGU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

BGU boasts strong academic support, ranking first in the National Student Survey 2024 for this category.

Student Advice & Wellbeing:

The university offers dedicated support services for student well-being, including counseling and guidance.

Library:

BGU has a well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.

IT Services:

Students have access to various IT resources and support.

Accommodation:

BGU provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

Careers:

The university offers career guidance and support to help students find employment after graduation.

Alumni Network:

BGU has a strong alumni network that provides support and networking opportunities.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

BGU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various clubs and societies, engage in sports activities, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Students' Union. The university is located in the historic city of Lincoln, offering a rich cultural experience and numerous attractions.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

High Student Satisfaction:

BGU consistently ranks high in student satisfaction surveys, indicating a positive learning environment and supportive community.

Strong Academic Support:

The university provides excellent academic support services to help students succeed in their studies.

Focus on Teacher Training:

BGU is a leading provider of teacher training programs, offering various routes into teaching.

Vibrant Campus Life:

BGU offers a lively campus experience with numerous opportunities for student engagement.

Location in Lincoln:

The university is situated in a historic and charming city with plenty to offer students.

---

Academic Programs:

BGU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Courses:

BGU offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in various fields, including education, business, humanities, and social sciences.

Postgraduate Courses:

The university offers postgraduate programs, including Master's degrees and doctoral studies, with a strong focus on teacher training and education-related fields.

Apprenticeships:

BGU offers degree apprenticeships in various fields, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning a degree.

---

Other: