Course outline

Our Doctoral Programme in Education by Professional Record promotes and endorses the highest level of knowledge, skills and experiences of leaders in schools and education in the belief that this recognition will impact significantly on practice.

The EdD is unique in that it:

• can be completed in 3 years of part-time study
• involves itself in the professional practice of school leaders and accredits a record of evidence rather than a traditional thesis
• incurs a highly competitive course fee

Course content

The Professional Record

1. A Personal Narrative (5,000 words) detailing a candidate’s professional development and progression, culminating in the choice (with rationale) of a topic of study from work experiences. A career reflection, detailing areas for further development, is also undertaken.
2. A Literature Review (15,000 words) examining the specialist topic area in the context of existing information, with reflection and discussion regarding strengths and weaknesses of arguments made.
3. The Presentation of Evidence (100,000 words or audio/visual equivalent) under headings:
   • qualifications (CV)
   • professional development activities
   • mobility (national/international links)
   • partnerships (working with others)

The course is taught by:

• Professor Rosie Sage
• Professor Max Coates
• Professor Kim Orton
• Professor Richard Davies

Full details in the Curriculum Handbook

Applicants will hold

• an Honours degree or equivalent and a Master’s award of high standing
• a senior position in a school or an educational organisation
• evidence of previous academic and practical excellence, as well as future potential

Participants, on acceptance, are expected to achieve Advanced Post-Graduate (APG) level, after completing a literature review of their topic area and defending this at an academic seminar.  This level is typically reached after 1 year and includes a course in research/development methods.

How to Apply

Applicants are required to complete an application form (available via the ‘Apply’ button above) and to provide a brief statement (2 A4 sides) answering the following questions:

• What is the focus (topic) of your evidence (e.g. leadership, curriculum development etc.)?
• Is there an existing literature base reflecting your focus?
• Why do you want to document your professional record in this way?
• How will you carry out the work?
• When are you hoping to start and complete the record?

This is not a proposal but gives enough information about intentions for the Academic Board to give feedback.  Applicants should have a focus linked to their professional remit and provide evidence that significantly contributes to the application of knowledge that is relevant locally, nationally and internationally.

Potential applicants are welcome to contact the School of Education and speak to the Programme Lead prior to application.

To apply you will need to supply:

• copy of degree certificate
• copy of Masters certificate
• copy of passport photo page (and visa/work permit where necessary)
• head and shoulder style photo for your University identity card

The closing date for applications is 5 July 2020.

Terms and conditions for prospective students

When you are offered a place at the University you will be notified of the terms and conditions between the University and students on our courses of study. When you accept an offer of a place on the course at the University a legal contract is formed between you and the University on the basis of the terms and conditions outlined in your offer letter. Your offer letter and the terms and conditions contain important information which you should read carefully before accepting any offer. Read the admissions terms and conditions > >

This should be paid at the rate of £5000 a year for the first three years of the course. It should be paid in three installments each year: October, January and April.

Applicants must also pay a non-refundable £275 registration fee.

Accommodation will be provided for all residentials at Whittlebury Hall or alternatively in nearby hotels, all of which will be arranged by the School of Education staff. The cost of this is included in the course fee.

If you have any questions please contact The School of Education on +44 (0)1280 820222 or email education@buckingham.ac.uk