MOUNT SAINT VINCENT UNIVERSITY · CANADA
PhD in Educational Studies
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
14 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Collaborative program with 3 universitiesPartnership
- 6 specialization themesFocus Areas
- 14 students admitted annually across all institutionsClass Size
- 14-month minimum residencyResidency
- Research-orientedProgram Type
The PhD in Educational Studies is a research-focused doctoral program offered through a collaborative partnership between Mount Saint Vincent University, Acadia University, and St. Francis Xavier University. Administered by the Inter-University Doctoral Administrative Committee (IDAC), students are admitted to one of the three universities and graduate from their "Home Institution of Record." The program views education as a complex, multi-contextual process understood through various disciplinary lenses. Doctoral students will engage in advanced educational research to contribute to academic discourse and policy, preparing them for leadership roles in education. Students can specialize in one or more of six interrelated themes: curriculum studies, educational foundations and leadership, inclusive education, lifelong learning, literacies, and the psychological aspects of education. Faculty research interests across all three institutions are available for review to help guide applicants' proposed study areas.
Curriculum
The program requires 4.0 units of coursework, completed over a minimum of four consecutive terms (14-month residency). Core courses include GEDU 9001 and 9002, which are delivered on-site at one of the three rotating university locations in July. GEDU 9010 and GEDU 9100 (dissertation units) are completed with a supervisor and committee at the student's Home Institution. Remaining courses are primarily delivered via e-learning. Students may also take relevant Master-level courses with augmented doctoral analysis. Access to academic facilities and courses at all three participating universities is available according to the approved study plan. Students can transition to part-time study after defending their comprehensive portfolio, with a maximum of six years to complete the dissertation from program entry.
- Year 1 (Residency)
- Required Course 1GEDU 9001
- Required Course 2GEDU 9002
- Required Course 3GEDU 9003
- Required Course 4GEDU 9004
- Required Course 5GEDU 9005
- Dissertation Phase (Can be part-time after comprehensive defense)
- Dissertation Seminar/SupervisionGEDU 9010
- DissertationGEDU 9100
Careers
The PhD in Educational Studies prepares graduates for leadership roles in various educational settings. The program aims to equip students to influence contemporary academic research and policy discourses.
- Education leadership positions
- Academic research
- Policy development
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeA Master's degree from a recognized university in education or a cognate discipline is required. Normally, a graduate thesis in a related field is expected. Applicants without a thesis must submit evidence of research ability through a qualifying research paper.
Research PreparationEvidence of scholarly preparation for research, typically including graduate-level courses in quantitative and/or qualitative research methods and design.
Academic AverageA minimum average of A- (80 percent) in the applicant's highest degree.
English Language ProficiencyDemonstrated strong reading, writing, and comprehension skills in English are essential for success in this doctoral program.
Qualified applicants are admitted only if a suitable supervisor and program are available. An interview with a selection committee may be required. Applicants should identify potential supervisor(s) and review the research interests of faculty at all three participating universities. A letter of intent outlining a proposed area of study is required. Applicants are admitted to one of the three universities (MSVU, Acadia, or St. Francis Xavier).
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition amounts are not specified for international students.
Tuition (home)Tuition amounts are not specified for domestic students.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided.
Specific tuition fees and living cost estimates are not detailed on the program page.
How to apply
1. Obtain Application PackageDownload the Doctoral Program Application Package from the inter-university PhD website (www.nsphdeducation.ca) or contact the Doctoral Program Office.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all required documents, including transcripts, a letter of intent, curriculum vitae, letters of reference, and evidence of research competence if a thesis was not completed. Identify potential supervisor(s).
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit the completed application package to the Doctoral Program Office by the November 15th deadline.
4. Application ReviewThe Inter-University Doctoral Administrative Committee (IDAC) reviews all applications and recommends candidates for acceptance to the participating institutions.
5. Supervisor ConfirmationFor applicants recommended to Mount Saint Vincent University, the Doctoral Program Coordinator will confirm an appropriate research supervisor.
6. Decision NotificationApplicants will be notified of the IDAC's decision in writing by the Mount Registrar's Office after March 1st.
7. Develop Study PlanUpon admission, an entry meeting with an advisor will establish a preliminary plan of study and research outline, to be submitted to the IDAC for approval, typically before the July 1st start date.