Professional Doctorate Education

Overview

This innovative course merges rigorous PhD-level research techniques with practical professional development, tailored for both academic researchers and educational practitioners.

Award

Professional Doctorate

Start Date

17 September 2025

UCAS Code

Course Specifications

View course spec

Course Length

Part-time (5 years)

Campus Location

University: Walsall Campus

School

School of Education

UCAS Points Calculator

Open Points Calculator

Why Choose This Course?

Combining traditional PhD-style research elements with support for researchers in professional practice, this course embodies dual philosophies which appeal to both academic student researchers and experienced educational practitioners. It has been designed to develop the individual’s capacity to work and progress in a professional context, supporting the growth of a research culture in the workplace.

What's Unique About This Course?

• Blends academic research with professional practice
• Suitable for researchers and practitioners
• Personalised curriculum path
• Responsive to individual needs
• Professionally experienced teaching team
• First-hand understanding of educational sectors
• Spans multiple educational domains
• Addresses strategic research and development needs
• Develops workplace research capabilities
• Supports professional growth and strategic thinking

Course Modules

Year 1

• Module: 7ED019 Credits: 20 Period: 1 Type: Core
  • The module aims to develop a critical understanding of the theories, principles and concepts that underpin assessment and learning.
• Module: 7ED001 Credits: 20 Period: 1 Type: Core
  • An introduction to the fundamental importance of critical reflection and reflexivity in professional learning in education.
• Module: 7ED007 Credits: 20 Period: 1 Type: Core
  • This module aims firstly to engage participants in a critical discussion about how new educational knowledge is created.
• Module: 7ED013 Credits: 20 Period: 1 Type: Core
  • Independent Study allows participants to develop their own learning skills in an area of particular interest to them.
• Module: 7ED017 Credits: 20 Period: 1 Type: Core
  • In this module you will explore the digital identities and habits of learners and teachers within educational settings.

Year 2

• Module: 7ED002 Credits: 20 Period: 2 Type: Core
  • In this module you will have an opportunity to critique current theory and practice around equality and diversity in education and wider society.
• Module: 7ED026 Credits: 60 Period: 2 Type: Core
  • The Professional Enquiry module engages participants in a systematic and critical enquiry into an area of education related closely to their own professional context and of personal interest.

Year 3

• Module: 8ED005 Credits: 20 Period: 3 Type: Core
  • This module enables students to deepen their knowledge and understanding of educational research.
• Module: 8ED007 Credits: 20 Period: 3 Type: Core
  • This module supports critical, reflective practice through the development of a range of independent and collaborative activities in a variety of contexts.

Year 4

• Module: 8ED006 Credits: 20 Period: 4 Type: Core
  • The module prepares participants for undertaking a rigorous educational enquiry in their chosen field of interest.

Year 5

• Module: 8ED008 Credits: 300 Period: 5 Type: Core
  • The module builds on a clear rationale developed through the preceding modules to form the basis of an independent supervised research thesis.

Potential Career Paths

• Clinical Supervisor
• Health Technology Specialist
• Consultant
• Public Speaker
• Early Years Education Specialist

Additional Information

• Why Wolverhampton?
  • Dual approach
  • Flexibility
  • Teaching expertise
  • Focus areas
  • Professional development
• What Skills Will You Gain?
  • Research skills
  • Strategic capabilities
  • Professional Development
  • Specialised Knowledge
• Course Fees and Finance
  • Location: Home
  • Mode: Part-time
  • Fee: £4408 per year
  • Year: 2025
• Entry Requirements
  • A first or upper second class honours degree, or a Master’s degree from a relevant subject area
  • Relevant professional experience
  • Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English at least to the level of an IELTS score (or equivalent) of 7.0, with no individual element less than 6.0.

University of Wolverhampton

---

Overview:

The University of Wolverhampton is a public university located in Wolverhampton, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as degree apprenticeships and CPD short courses. The university is known for its strong focus on student support and its commitment to providing a high-quality learning experience.

---

Services Offered:

The University of Wolverhampton offers a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

The university provides academic support services such as tutoring, writing workshops, and study skills development.

Student Support:

Students have access to a range of support services, including disability support, mature student support, and career guidance.

Accommodation:

The university offers a variety of on-campus accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.

IT Services:

Students have access to a range of IT services, including computer labs, Wi-Fi, and online learning platforms.

Library:

The university library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.

Gym:

The university has a gym with a variety of facilities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and sports courts.

Students' Union:

The Students' Union provides a range of services and activities for students, including social events, clubs, and societies.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at the University of Wolverhampton can expect a vibrant and supportive campus environment. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a number of facilities and services to support student life, including a gym, a Students' Union, and a library.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Student Support:

The university is known for its strong focus on student support, with a range of services available to help students succeed.

Affordable Living:

The university offers a variety of affordable accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.

High-Quality Learning Experience:

The university is committed to providing a high-quality learning experience, with experienced lecturers and modern facilities.

Strong Graduate Outcomes:

A high percentage of the university's graduates are employed or in further education within 15 months of graduation.

---

Academic Programs:

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

Arts, Business, and Social Sciences:

The university has a strong reputation in these fields, with programs in areas such as creative industries, social science, humanities, business, and law.

Education, Health, and Wellbeing:

The university offers a variety of programs in these fields, including education, nursing, midwifery, psychology, health and society, and sport.

Science and Engineering:

The university has a strong reputation in these fields, with programs in areas such as architecture, built environment, engineering, computing, mathematical sciences, life sciences, and pharmacy.

---

Other:

The university has a strong commitment to research, with a number of research centers and institutes. The university also has a strong international focus, with a number of programs and services for international students.