Professional Doctorate via Study Centres DProf

Overview

The Professional Doctorate is the same level of academic qualification as a PhD (level 8) and is designed for experienced professionals who wish to undertake a programme that is applied in nature and of practical value to their career.

Why us?

• A doctorate is one of the most internationally transferable qualifications
• The first 18 months of the programme has a taught element and is designed to prepare you for the working and thinking at a doctoral level

Course structure

Following successful completion of all five modules, you will work independently on your chosen research topic with support from your academic supervisors. During this phase of the programme, you will have the opportunity to attend a series of optional study days that cover a variety of topics to help you with your studies.

Modules include:

1 to 6 months:

• Framing Professional Identity (30 credits)
• Practice-based Research (30 credits)

7 to 12 months:

• Planning And Contextualisation (60 credits)

13 to 18 months:

• Practice-based Research 2 (30 credits)
• Critical Debate in Professional Practice (30 credits)

19 to 72 months - research phase

• Professional Doctorate (360 credits)

Facilities

This course is taught at our partner institution UCC Jamaica.

Entry requirements

• The normal entry requirement for a research degree is a UK honours degree (first or upper second class) or a UK Masters degree or a qualification which is regarded as equivalent.
• If English is not your first language, you will need an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component: reading, writing, listening and speaking (or equivalent).

Application process

• You will be asked to write a 2-3 page proposal that specifies the:
  • Aims of your doctoral project
  • Project's relevance to your workplace and profession
  • Proposed methodology and techniques for analysis
  • Outline of a potential research plan
• You must write your personal statement (included in the application form) addressing the following points:
  • Your professional experience and standing
  • The recognition by your peers as a leading professional in your field
  • The level at which you are operating within your organisation or profession and the extent to which you can provide significant influence or drive substantial change
  • The opportunity that you have to make a significant contribution to professional practice and/or how you exhibit your powers of creativity and innovation
• Along with your application form, you must upload the following documents:
  • Research proposal
  • Qualification certificates
  • IELTS certificates, if applicable
  • Two references, one of which must be academic

Fees and finance

Please contact the study centre directly for information on fees for this course.

Related courses

• PhD Doctor of Philosophy
• Higher Doctorate
• MPhil Master of Philosophy

Duration

• 3/6 years
• Part-time

Course code

• CID1333

Extracted Information from University of Sunderland's Professional Doctorate (DProf) via Study Centres Program

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Degree Overview:

This professional doctorate is equivalent to a PhD, designed for experienced professionals who want to apply their knowledge practically and gain value in their career. The program recognizes the complexities of real-world problems and adopts a multi-disciplinary approach to reflect the professional world. It also emphasizes self-reflection, critical reflection, and research methodology, providing a practical approach to address workplace issues and contribute to the profession.

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Outline:

The program consists of two phases:

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Phase 1 (taught element):

• Duration: 18 months
• Focus: Prepares students to work and think at a doctoral level
• Modules:
• Framing Professional Identity (30 credits)
• Practice-based Research (30 credits)
• Planning And Contextualisation (60 credits)
• Practice-based Research 2 (30 credits)
• Critical Debate in Professional Practice (30 credits)

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Phase 2 (research phase):

• Duration: 36-72 months
• Focus: Independent research on chosen topic with support from supervisors
• Options:
• Report with supporting evidence (80,000 words)
• Thesis (around 80,000 words)
• Additional offerings:
• Optional study days covering various topics to support research
• Viva voce examination

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Assessment:

Assessment methods and criteria are not explicitly mentioned in the provided context.

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Teaching:

Teaching methods and faculty information are not mentioned in the provided context.

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Careers:

Career paths and opportunities are not explicitly mentioned in the provided context.

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Other:

• The program is also available on campus at Sunderland and their London base.
• The University of Sunderland offers DBA and DProf programs at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean in Kingston, Jamaica.
• The program is open to experienced professionals who want to apply their knowledge practically and gain value in their career.
## Additional Notes
• The provided context lacks information on assessment methods, teaching methods, faculty, career paths, and specific details about the research phase.
• For complete information on these aspects, please contact the University of Sunderland directly.

University of Sunderland

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Overview:

The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.

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Services Offered:

The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.

Student Support:

Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Career Services:

Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student Life:

A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Quality Facilities:

The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.

Inclusive Culture:

The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Vibrant City:

Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.

Strong Industry Links:

The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts and Design:

Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, and Graphic Design.

Sciences:

Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine, and Biology.

Business and Law:

Business Management, Finance, Law, and Tourism.

Computing and Engineering:

Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.

Education and Social Sciences:

Education, Psychology, and Social Work.

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Other:

The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.