Doctor of Philosophy (Education)

The PhD(Education) is a 2 years full-time or 3 years part-time full thesis degree.

Overview

A Doctorate is the highest qualification a student can be awarded at the University. It is earned by conducting independent research under the supervision of faculty mentors. This programme is offered in January, April and July.

Students are exposed to research opportunities involving multiple cutting edge research skills. The programme offers a unique blend of theory, research and practical reflection. 

The completion of the qualification is dependant upon producing a doctoral thesis. The thesis should make a recognisable contribution to knowledge in the field of study and be of a publishable standard. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates from this programme may pursue roles such as:

  • University academic and researcher
  • Senior education policy advisor
  • Education thought leader and published scholar
  • International education consultant
  • Research director at education NGOs and think tanks.

Curriculum

This a full thesis only (no coursework) programme

  • Thesis streams:
    • Education (EDUC)
    • Science Education (SCED)
    • Special / Deaf Education (SPED)
  • Minimum 2 years full-time under a Senate-appointed supervisor
  • Ethics clearance required

Entry Requirements

You must be meeting one of the following requirements to register for this programme:

  • MEd from Wits
  • OR BEd Hons (distinction) by special permission
  • OR BEd + BA Hons (both with distinction)
  • OR BEd Hons + Master’s (Arts/Commerce/Science)
  • OR Master’s degree (any faculty) + 4 years relevant education experience
  • OR equivalent qualification from another university

For research applicants: must approach HOD to discuss research topic and supervisor availability BEFORE applying (PG Guide p67).

University Application Process

  • Applications are handled centrally by the Student Enrolment Centre (SEnC). Once your application is complete in terms of requested documentation, your application will be referred to the relevant School for assessment. Click here to see an overview of the Wits applications process. Refer to Wits postgraduate online application guide for detailed guidelines. 
  • Please apply online. Upload your supporting documents at the time of application, or via the Self Service Portal.
  • Applicants can monitor the progress of their applications via the Self Service Portal.
  • Selections for programmes that have a limited intake but attract a large number of applications may only finalise the application at the end of the application cycle.

Please note that the Entry Requirements are a guide. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee a place. Final selection is made subject to the availability of places, academic results and other entry requirements where applicable.

International students, please check this section.

For more information, contact the Student Call Centre +27 (0)11 717 1888, or log a query at www.wits.ac.za/askwits.

University Fees and Funding

Click here to see the current average tuition fees. The Fees site also provides information about the payment of fees and closing dates for fees payments. Once you have applied you will be able to access the fees estimator on the student self-service portal.

For information about postgraduate funding opportunities, including the postgraduate merit award, click here. The University's Postgraduate Funding portal is a database of scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities available to Wits postgraduate students. Please also check your School website for bursary opportunities. NRF bursaries: The National Research Foundation (NRF) offers a wide range of opportunities in terms of bursaries and fellowships to students pursuing postgraduate studies. External bursaries portal: The Bursaries South Africa website provides a comprehensive list of bursaries in South Africa.