Cohort PhD in Education

The Cohort PhD in Education is a full-time cohort-based programme which runs for 48 months from the date of first registration for the programme.

Course Outline

The programme involves the completion of high-level research work leading to the submission and examination of a PhD Thesis (up to a maximum of 60,000 words), work on which is undertaken over the 48 months of the programme. The thesis will be completed and submitted for assessment at the end of Year 4. To support preparation of the thesis candidates take a minimum of coursework/research training modules to the value of 40 credits over the first three years of the programme.

Academic Programme Catalogue

See the Academic Programme Catalogue where you can search for the complete and up-to-date content for this course. Note that the modules for all courses are subject to change from year to year. For complete descriptions of individual modules, see the Book of Modules.

Why Choose This Course

In keeping with its strong emphasis on research and publication, the School of Education UCC offers a Cohort PhD programme in Education that welcomes applicants both national and international.

The introduction of the Cohort PhD in the School of Education in 2008 was a response to the demand for doctoral-level work in the field of education in Ireland. It was also a response to changing views about doctoral study reflected in the international critique of the solo scholar/supervisor model of the traditional PhD, particularly concerning the need for more systematic training in a broader range of advanced research methodologies. The Cohort PhD offers a cohort experience from the beginning of the four-year programme, requiring the kind of collaboration and responsibility expected in high-level professional practice.

It aims to enhance high-level professional practice in the field of education by enabling professionals to articulate existing and new expertise and develop the knowledge and skills required of the expert. An expert is someone who has an intellectual and practical ability, particularly in terms of collaboration, reflexivity and responsibility, to meet the challenge of developing new and responsive practices and to mediate knowledge in increasingly complex professional environments. The Cohort PhD develops such expertise by meeting professional research needs within a structured learning environment. The central aim of the programme is to enable education professionals to develop the kind of advanced knowledge and analytical skills necessary to interpret and undertake varied kinds of research to enhance policy and professional practice in a wide range of educational settings.

Skills and Careers Information

Cohort PhD researchers in Cohort 1 (2008), Cohort 2 (2011), and Cohort 3 (2019) have been or are working in schools (teachers and school management), adult/further education sectors, third-level (lecturers in university) and others working in the field of education (agencies, government departments) or cognate areas of professional practice with an interest in developing their expertise in teaching, learning, assessment and/or policy analysis.

Requirements

Applicants must have:

• A Second Class Honours Grade 1 in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) and an appropriate Postgraduate Diploma (NFQ, Level 9) and/or Master's (NFQ, Level 9) with at least a Second Class Honours
• At least three years relevant professional experience in education or cognate field.

As part of the online application applicants must supply statements detailing:

• Research interests, which must include each of the following headings:
  • What area/topic do you plan to research
  • What research experience do you have
  • What is the significance of your research area/topic and why does it motivate you
• Motivation statement, which must include each of the following headings:
  • Why do you want to do a PhD
  • What elements of doing a PhD do you expect to be most demanding for you
  • What elements are you most looking forward to

Consideration under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may also be given to applicants who do not meet the minimum academic entry requirements as stated above but who present with suitable professional qualifications and substantial education-related professional experience. In such cases, the applicant must clearly set out the grounds upon which they wish to be considered in the motivation statement.

For Applicants with Qualifications Completed Outside of Ireland

Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements.

International/Non-EU Applicants

For full details of the non-EU application procedure visit our how to apply pages for international students.

Fees and Costs

See our Postgraduate EU and Non-EU (International) Fee Schedule for the latest information.

Deposits

If your course requires a deposit, please note that booking fees and deposits are non-refundable in all cases.

How can I pay?

See different options on our How Do I Pay My Fees? page.

How To Apply

1. Check dates: Check the opening and closing dates for the application process.
2. Gather documents: Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the UCC online application portal and include:

• Original qualification documents listed on your application, including transcripts of results from institutions other than UCC.
• Any supplementary items requested for your course, if required.

3. Apply online: Apply online by clicking the red 'Apply Now' button. Note most of our courses have a non-refundable €50 application fee.

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Degree Overview:

The Cohort PhD in Education is a full-time, cohort-based program that runs for 48 months from the date of first registration. It involves completing high-level research work leading to the submission and examination of a PhD Thesis (up to 60,000 words). The thesis is completed and submitted for assessment at the end of Year 4. To support thesis preparation, candidates take a minimum of coursework/research training modules worth 40 credits over the first three years of the program. The program aims to enhance high-level professional practice in the field of education by enabling professionals to articulate existing and new expertise and develop the knowledge and skills required of an expert. The program develops expertise by meeting professional research needs within a structured learning environment. The central aim is to enable education professionals to develop advanced knowledge and analytical skills necessary to interpret and undertake varied kinds of research to enhance policy and professional practice in a wide range of educational settings.

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Outline:

The program involves the completion of a PhD Thesis (up to 60,000 words) and coursework/research training modules worth 40 credits over the first three years. The program is structured as follows:

• Year 1-3: Coursework/research training modules (40 credits)
• Year 4: PhD Thesis completion and submission

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Assessment:

The program culminates in the submission and examination of a PhD Thesis (up to 60,000 words). The thesis is assessed by a panel of examiners.

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Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of faculty members with expertise in education research. The program emphasizes a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

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Careers:

Cohort PhD researchers have been or are working in various educational settings, including:

• Schools (teachers and school management)
• Adult/further education sectors
• Third-level (lecturers in university)
• Agencies and government departments
• Cognate areas of professional practice with an interest in developing expertise in teaching, learning, assessment, and/or policy analysis.

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Other:

The introduction of the Cohort PhD in the School of Education in 2008 was a response to the demand for doctoral-level work in the field of education in Ireland. It was also a response to changing views about doctoral study reflected in the international critique of the solo scholar/supervisor model of the traditional PhD, particularly concerning the need for more systematic training in a broader range of advanced research methodologies. The Cohort PhD offers a cohort experience from the beginning of the four-year program, requiring the kind of collaboration and responsibility expected in high-level professional practice.

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Deposits If your course requires a deposit, that figure will be deducted from your second-semester fee payment in January. Fee payment Fees are payable in two equal installments. First payment is at registration and the balance usually by the end of January. page. Any questions?

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.