phd education lincoln university

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Graduate Programs

Advance your career with lincoln university's school of education graduate degrees..

Explore a transformative educational experience with the Lincoln University School of Education's Graduate Programs. Our programs aim to equip you with the essential skills and connections to elevate your career in education. Whether you are looking to advance your current role as a teacher or embark on a new path, our programs offer the opportunity to enhance your expertise in educational leadership, curriculum development, and instructional technology. With a focus on flexibility and tailored specialization, you can delve into educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, and educational technology, ensuring you are well-prepared to excel in your chosen educational career path.

Apply Today!

Degree Paths

Lincoln University's Master of Education in Counseling program offers specialized tracks for those seeking to serve as K-12 School Counselors, Licensed Professional Counselors, or Addiction Counselors, aligning with the specific educational and licensure requirements set by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Missouri Credentialing Board, and Missouri Committee for Professional Counselors.

Learn more about LU's MEd in Couseling program

The 100% online   Master of Arts in Higher Education program is specialized to focus on historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). This degree program aims to equip students with practical knowledge and insights into the organizational structure, governance, and functions of higher education institutions, particularly HBCUs.

Learn more about LU's MA in Higher Education (HBCU concentration)

The 100% online Master of Education in School Administration and Supervision (K-12) at Lincoln University is a fully online program tailored for working professionals aspiring to assume leadership positions within the K-12 education domain. This program provides students with the chance to cultivate crucial leadership abilities essential for fostering inclusive learning environments, all while preparing for the Missouri principal exam and those of other states and U.S. territories. The emphasis on practical leadership skills and the program's online format cater to the needs of working professionals seeking to advance their careers in the educational leadership arena.

Learn more about LU's MEd in  School Administration and Supervision (K-12)

The Educational Specialist in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares individuals to offer mental health services in various settings. This 30-credit hour program includes both required and elective courses, allowing specialization in areas needed for licensure or professional growth. Applicants should have a Master's degree in a related field. The program provides an expedited licensure path for Missouri Licensed Professional Counselor and advanced coursework for current licensed counselors seeking to enhance their skills and career prospects.

Learn more about LU's EdS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The  Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership with a School Mental Health option trains school leaders to identify and address mental health conditions affecting K-12 students. The program covers organizational and legal issues, provides training in recognizing mental health impacts on academic development, and emphasizes effective communication with mental health organizations. It prepares educational leaders and supports mental health professionals in understanding and integrating their services within the public school system.

Learn more about LU's EdS in  Educational Leadership-School Mental Health

Office of Graduate Studies Young Hall 820 Chestnut Street Jefferson City, MO 65101 P: 573-681-5125 E:  [email protected]

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MPhil/PhD Educational Research and Development

Key Information

Brayford Pool

Entry Requirements

MPhil: 1.5-3 years. PhD: 2-4 years

MPhil: 2-4 years. PhD: 3-8 years

Start Dates in October, January, and May

Programme Overview

The MPhil/PhD are research programmes aimed at those who wish to gain a postgraduate qualification by conducting supervised independent primary research in education which is written up into a thesis.

Each programme of study is run the same way, with variations in depth and originality of research between MPhil and PhD. This is reflected in the length of study and thesis: for example, a part-time PhD typically takes 5-6 years to produce an 80,000 word thesis. Full-time study usually takes about half the time of part-time study.

The MPhil/PhD is aimed at those who are, or aspire to be, senior academic or administrative leaders of primary, secondary, or tertiary educational institutions, or university lecturers and researchers.

These programmes are designed to develop the critical-thinking and research skills required for study at postgraduate level. Students have the opportunity to decide on the focus of their research and receive one-to-one support from experienced supervisors.

At Lincoln, research students benefit from regular monthly meetings with their supervisor (monthly for full-time students, bi-monthly for part-time). In addition, students can attend regular training sessions on research methods and skills provided by the School of Education and the University's Doctoral School.

Key Features

Conduct independent, original, and academically significant research

Benefit from training courses to develop key research skills

Supervision and support from an advisory panel of academic staff

Present at talks and seminars to showcase your work

Enrol in January or October each year

Lincolnshire Learning Lab

Lincolnshire Learning Lab has been established to help improve the learning of children, and the working environments for teachers within Lincolnshire. One of the main aims of the group is to bring academic rigour and evidence-based research into the classroom by engaging with teachers, academics, and other stakeholders in the education system, such as parents and educational consultants.

Research Areas

The School of Education is an active community of researchers and has a wide range of expertise. The current research areas are listed below, but we also welcome enquiries about other subject areas related to education. A list of past doctoral theses from the School of Education can be found here . Current research areas include:

• Teacher Education and Professional Development 
• Student Experience and Wellbeing 
• Curriculum and Pedagogy 
• Diversity and Inclusion 
• Technology in Education 
• International and Global Education 
• Educational Theories and Philosophies 
• Sociocultural Aspects of Education 
• Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Practices 
• Higher Education and Academic Culture 

How You Study

Research students work with their supervisors to refine the focus of their research. Due to the nature of postgraduate research, the majority of time is spent in independent study and research, Students will benefit from individual supervision meetings, and the frequency of these vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and stage of programme.

Supervisions for students based in the UK may be undertaken in person, by email, videoconferencing, or phone call. Overseas students studying in the UK on a student visa must attend monthly supervisions in person. Typically, meetings occur monthly for full-time students and bi-monthly for part-time students.

International applicants who wish to remain in their home country for the entire period of study may be supervised by e-mail, videoconferencing, or phone call.

Typically, PhD students register for an MPhil and, after 12 or 24 months (depending on full-time or part-time status), are expected to transfer to the PhD programme. This transfer requires the production of a detailed research proposal, which the candidate is expected to defend at a transfer viva.

How you are assessed

PhD students are expected to produce a thesis of 80,000 words, while MPhil students produce a thesis of 40,000 words, both supported by an oral defence.

Research Proposals

You will need to produce a research proposal as part of your application for this programme. This is a project outline identifying what you want to study, why you want to investigate this area, and how you intend to conduct the research. You will also need to identify a potential supervisor at Lincoln whose research interests align with your own, and share your proposal and ideas with them before submitting your application. You can find more details on our School staff pages.

Remember that your proposal is the starting point of your research. It is normal for your ideas to evolve and develop, and for plans to change as you engage more deeply with the literature and begin working with your supervision team.

Length of Proposal

Your proposal should be around 1,500 to 2,000 words (and no more than 2,500 words).

Structuring Your Research Proposal

There isn’t a prescribed format for the structure of a research proposal but the following section headings are generally considered to be important:

Working Title

A clear and succinct description of your research should be encapsulated in the title. Although this may not be the title of your final thesis, your proposal title should give a clear indication of the area you are interested in exploring.

Introduction

The introduction should set the context, explaining what you will research, why it is of value, and how you propose to conduct your research. The introduction is your opportunity to demonstrate that your proposed research can make a significant contribution to existing bodies of literature, detailing how your research will fill a gap or develop/complete findings from previous research. Overall, you will be expected to show that you have a good knowledge of the wider context in which your research belongs and that you have awareness of methodologies, theories, and conflicting evidence in your chosen field.

Overview of Your Research

You should provide a short overview of your research and where it fits in existing academic discourses, debates, or literature. This should also cover your research objectives, why the research is needed, and what original contribution it can make. Make sure your overview is intelligible to someone who is not a specialist in this field

Literature Review

You won’t have had chance to review all the relevant literature at this stage, but you should be able to incorporate the major debates and issues, demonstrating that you understand your chosen field. Show how your research is original and how it will address the gaps in current knowledge. The conclusion of the review should include a statement of your research problem or question.

Methodology

Your methodology section should detail how you will conduct your research and consider the following:

• Methods of data collection and analysis
• How you will access and recruit participants (if relevant)
• Number of participants to be included (if relevant)
• Ethical implications of your work
• Any potential problems and challenges with your proposed methods and how these might be overcome.

You should provide a clear plan of how you will carry out the research from start to finish, breaking it down into the main components of the research project and identifying what you expect to do in each year of your studies.

Top Tips for a Good Research Proposal

• Have a clearly stated research idea, question, or problem and be persuasive.
• Demonstrate how it is addressing a gap in the current knowledge and research.
• Develop a well-structured proposal (poorly formed or rambling proposals may raise concerns that the thesis could be the same).
• Be reasonable and realistic in terms of scope.
• Show passion for the topic.
• Refine and edit your proposal before it is submitted.
• Make sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors.
• Leave the reader interested, excited, and wanting to know more.
• Demonstrate an understanding of research methods and research approaches and be clear that these are appropriate for your research question(s).
• Refrain from using discipline-specific jargon unless it is absolutely necessary to communicating your idea effectively.

How to Apply

Postgraduate Research Application Support

Find out more about the application process for research degrees and what you'll need to complete on our How to Apply page, which also features contact details for dedicated support with your application.

Entry Requirements 2025-26

Minimum of an upper Second Class honours degree, or alternatively a Second Class honours degree and a Master's degree in a relevant subject.

In addition to the stated qualifications required, applicants are required to submit a research proposal with their application. For guidance on writing a research proposal, please visit: http://bit.ly/WritingAResearchProposal .

For information about potential PhD supervisors in the School of Education, please visit: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/edc/staff/

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/ .

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/ . These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.

Applicants will be selected for interview on the basis of their application and research proposal.

Programme Fees

You will need to have funding in place for your studies before you arrive at the University. Our fees vary depending on the course, mode of study, and whether you are a UK or international student. You can view the breakdown of fees for this programme below. Research students may be required to pay additional fees in addition to cover the cost of specialist resources, equipment and access to any specialist collections that may be required to support their research project. These will be informed by your research proposal and will be calculated on an individual basis.

Funding Your Research

Loans and Studentships

Find out more about the options available to support your postgraduate research, from Master's and Doctoral Loans, to research studentship opportunities. You can also find out more about how to pay your fees and access support from our helpful advisors.

Giambattista Bufalino

Phd educational research and development.

Giambattista is a Researcher in Education at the University of Catania in Italy, where he teaches courses in General Education and Intercultural Education. He has conducted national and international studies in the fields of teaching and educational leadership and also serves on the editorial boards of a number of education journals.

The rigorous curriculum and the supportive academic environment at Lincoln fostered a deep understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, which was crucial in preparing me for my current role, where I continually apply these skills to conduct impactful educational research. The conferences and seminars also expanded my professional network, connecting me with fellow researchers and practitioners whose insights and collaborations continue to influence my work.

Career Development

A doctoral qualification can be the capstone of academic achievement and often marks the beginning of a career in academia or research. A research programme provides the opportunity to become a true expert in your chosen field, while developing a range of valuable transferable skills that can support your career progression. A research-based degree is also the most direct pathway to an academic career. PhDs and research degrees are a great chance to expand your network and meet diverse people with similar interests, knowledge, and passion.

The University’s Doctoral School provides a focal point for Lincoln’s community of researchers, where ideas and experiences can be developed and shared across disciplines. It also offers support and training to help equip you for both academic and non-academic careers.

Doctoral School

Academic Contact

For more information about this course, please contact:

Dr Joss Winn [email protected]

Research at Lincoln

Through our research, we are striving to change society for the better. Working with regional, national, and international partners, our academics are engaged in groundbreaking studies that are challenging the status quo. We also understand the importance of providing the best possible environment for pursuing research that can support our communities and make a tangible difference to the world around us.

Graduate Programs

Lincoln University offers several graduate programs through our School of Adult and Continuing Education (SACE). Conveniently located in downtown Philadelphia, our graduate programs are designed with you in mind.

Many classes are offered Saturdays or during the evening so you can fit them into your busy schedule. Our accelerated and traditional programs are built for adult learners, so you can learn quickly and get back to your career, equipped with the new skills, capabilities, knowledge, and confidence to achieve more than ever before.

Apply to Lincoln

Graduate Degree Programs

• Master of Arts in Human Services (MAHS)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education
• Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership

Learn more about each program and the courses required in our University Catalog . You can also find additional information on admissions requirements on our Graduate Program Admissions page.

Our graduate programs are offered at: School of Adult and Continuing Education (SACE) 3020 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 215-590-8200 or 215-590-8233 We are conveniently located on the Avenue of Technology corridor in University City, just one block from 30th Street Station, the main railroad station in Philadelphia.

If you have questions about Lincoln's graduate programs, please let us know and we'll respond as soon as possible.

Morgan M. Shaw Assistant Director, Office of Admissions, School of Adult and Continuing Education Email: [email protected] Phone: 215-590-8239 University City Room 417

Aleyah Farmbry Program Assistant, Office of Admissions, School of Adult and Continuing Education Email: [email protected] Phone: 215-590-8232 University City Room 443

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PhD (Professional) Education

University of lincoln, different course options.

• Key information

Course Summary

Tuition fees, entry requirements, similar courses at different universities, key information data source : idp connect, qualification type.

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Subject areas

Education Studies

Course type

The PhD (Professional) Education is a doctoral research programme of equivalent standing to the traditional Doctor of Philosophy, with a focus on research and professional practice. The course is designed for current and future educators who wish to conduct original research relating to their professional context or area of educational practice, and aims to support the dissemination, development, and management of a range of professional practice and policy development.

Students will undertake three core modules, two optional modules, and a research component where they can conduct field work, analyse their data in light of existing knowledge, and write a thesis for examination.

During the taught stage, core modules aim to support students in identifying their specific research questions through a critical review of the literature; develop the requisite knowledge, understanding, and practical skills in appropriate research methods; and produce a compelling rationale and plan for conducting a substantive piece of original research. Optional modules present opportunities for further learning, while the research component involves rigorous data collection and analysis to produce a 60,000-word thesis that systematically presents research, learning, and contribution to knowledge.

Throughout the duration of the programme, students will be part of a diverse, supportive, and intellectually challenging research environment in the School of Education. In addition to the programme requirements, all students are encouraged to engage in broader postgraduate training opportunities, present their work to academic audiences, and communicate the significance of their research to colleagues and peers.

How You Study

All students are expected to attend scheduled teaching on the programme. This takes place at two weekend study schools (Friday - Sunday in October and February) and one week-long study school (Monday - Friday in July).

How You Are Assessed

During the taught stage, students are assessed through written assignments, portfolios, and presentations. To complete the doctorate, students need to successfully complete a viva examination of their thesis.

Supervisors and module co-ordinators provide regular feedback and grades to mark student progress through the curricula. In addition, students should expect to participate in formative peer re-view of each others ideas and work throughout the programme through active group discussion and a variety of presentation methods (e.g. annual student conference presentations, poster sessions, 'PechaKucha' sessions).

Career and Personal Development

The PhD (Professional) Education aims to enable individuals to make a significant contribution to understanding and improving professional practice in education through research. The programme is specifically designed for current and future educators, and can be understood as an advanced form of research-based professional development or training. Graduates from the programme may go on to senior positions in their existing field as well as entering academic careers.

UK fees Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

International fees Course fees for EU and international students

Students need to have a first or second class honours degree or equivalent professional experience.

Education MA

Birmingham newman university, postgraduate certificate (pg cert) in education (international students - online) with learning and teaching, pgce primary teacher training 3 - 11 with qts, postgraduate certificate (pg cert) in education (international students - online) with inclusion and special educational needs and disability, education ma (uk students - online) with leadership and management.

The University will be closed for the Christmas and New Year holidays from 5pm Friday 20 December and reopen on Wednesday 8 January 2025 (with limited services available from 6 January for Summer School). 

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Qualification

3 years full time

Lincoln University Campus

Gaining your Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Lincoln creates opportunities to challenge yourself with new ways of thinking and problem-solving, absorbing research and innovative ideas from leading scientists and professional organisations in New Zealand and internationally.

Grow your ability to help create a better future

As an internationally respected land-based university, we are at the forefront of research that leads to innovative ways of addressing the complex challenges our biosphere faces. Our PhD cohort are our partners in this work. The goal of the three-year full-time research-based PhD programme is to nurture your ability to analyse situations, evaluate research, then join with other leading thinkers to conceptualise and test new ideas that could lead to a healthier future.

How to apply

The first step is to ensure that you meet the entry criteria, which you can find here .

Confirm that your research area can be catered for at Lincoln University by checking  the list of available supervisors . 

Begin the application process online here . 

You can read an overview of the most important rules, regulations and procedures for postgraduate study here .

Learn more about our research

Research at Lincoln University is conducted across faculties, centres of excellence and research centres. Learn more here . 

Find a post-graduate research project

Programme information

• A relevant postgraduate honours degree awarded with a minimum second class honours (division one or equivalent).
• Your previous qualification must include a significant research component, incorporating a thesis, dissertation or project
• If English isn’t your first language, other entry requirements will apply. Learn more about the English language requirements .
• In addition to Domestic Tuition Fees, there is also an annual Student Services Fee.
• International PhD students are classified as domestic students provided you are resident in New Zealand during your study (apart from temporary absences carrying out approved doctorate research).
• If you don’t meet the domestic tuition criteria, international tuition fees will apply.
• International students are also required to have approved Medical and Travel Insurance.
• Accommodation is not covered in study fees.

PhD students can start at any time during the year.

Entry requirements

Tuition fees, intake semesters, find a phd supervisor.

Find a PhD supervisor in your chosen study area

Apply for our PhD scholarships

Key information for students.

Compare qualification and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

Need more info?

Email us on [email protected]

Or call us on 0800 10 60 10

If you're overseas, please call +64 3 423 0000

Lincoln University endeavours to ensure that the information published on its website is accurate and up-to-date. However, such information is subject to regular review and can change without notice. Entry to programmes may be limited and staffing, programmes and courses may be varied or discontinued at any time.

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Students and prospective students are advised to check with the relevant Faculty or Department before applying to enrol in a particular course or programme. International students should also check relevant policies, fees and procedures with our Enrolment Office.

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