phd adult education canada

Doctor of Philosophy in Adult Education & Community Development

Doctor of Philosophy in Adult Education & Community Development Overview

Are you interested in bringing about positive social change where you live or work do you want to teach from a cutting-edge perspective and become a leading critical scholar consider applying for this program..

The PhD in Adult Education & Community Development (AECD) program focuses on learning that happens individually and collectively among adults in communities, workplaces, social movements, the street, and the virtual world—any place where people come together to create social change. The PhD degree program is designed to provide opportunities for advanced study in the theoretical foundations of adult education and community development and in the application of such knowledge to practice. Except for the time to completion, requirements for both the full-time and flexible-time programs are the same.  We welcome applicants with diverse but relevant backgrounds. Indigenous, Marxist, feminist, anti-racist, environmentalist, anarchist, arts-based, anti-psychiatry and other critical perspectives are welcome.

For detailed information about the program, please consult the  School of Graduate Studies Calendar .

At a Glance

Study Options Full-time (6 years - maximum) Flexible-time (8 years - maximum) Program Requirements Coursework Comprehensive Requirement Thesis

Funding and Tuition For current information about tuition fees, funding, and financial support, visit  Tuition & Financial Support .  

Deadlines Applications for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle are now closed.

Ready to join one of the world’s top universities? Take the next step in your academic journey and start your application to graduate studies at OISE.

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Why I Chose Leadership, Adult & Higher Education

Sheldon Bromfield (Doctor of Philosophy 2022)

My PhD journey in Adult Education and Community Development (AECD) has been positively transformative. Within two years after completing my MEd in AECD, I began my doctoral studies in the same program with the collaborative specialization in Workplace Learning and Social Change. My previous academic background is in business administration, and the doctoral AECD program is ideal for those who, like me, are interested in developing a critical perspective within research as opposed to incorporating a traditional lens, often applied in conventional social sciences. The professors I have worked with along my doctoral journey have been highly supportive of my research interests and the development of my professional and scholarly research skills. The program courses and course content delivery are intellectually stimulating, insightful, and most importantly, relevant to examining and exploring timely real-world issues that impact everyday life.

Doctor of Philosophy in Adult Education & Community Development Admission Requirements

General admission requirements.

Please visit the   OISE Admissions website   for detailed information about the application process, including general minimum admission requirements and supporting documents. 

Program-Specific Information (Minimum Admission Requirements)

Minimum admission requirements for this program are:

• An appropriate master's degree from a recognized university in a relevant discipline or professional program, with a minimum standing equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ .
• Applicants to the flexible-time option should be active professionals who demonstrate connections between their professional work and their proposed course program, and/or between their professional work and their proposed research. Capacity to secure blocks of time to enable concentrated study is required.
• Applications are assessed based on four criteria: strength of admission documents;  grades; work, community or volunteer experience; and fit with the program offerings.

Required Supporting Documents

All applicants must submit: 

• Transcript(s) from each post-secondary institution attended.
• Two letters of reference (one academic and one professional).
• Résumé which provides clear and complete information about the applicant's work or field experience related to their proposed studies.
• Answers to faculty admissions questions (applicants are to answer each question in an essay format).
• Sample of written work.

Program Information

Except for the time to completion, requirements for both the full-time and flexible-time programs are the same. 

Students are required to complete 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) , including:

• Designed for first or second year students, this seminar explores key elements of the doctoral studies journey: crafting a research topic, developing a thesis proposal, choosing a committee, planning for comprehensive, fostering effective writing strategies, and planning for publication.
• At least 1.5 FCEs of the total of 3.0 FCEs must be from the Adult Education and Community Development program. Additional courses may be required of some students.
• At least 1 half-course (0.5 FCE) in research methods.  

Comprehensive Requirement

Normally, a major paper between 5,000 and 7,000 words in length (including tables, figures, and references). It consists of a comprehensive discussion of one or more literatures and/or debates of significance to adult education and community development.  

Collaborative specializations provide graduate students enrolled in participating degree programs with an additional multidisciplinary experience as they complete their home degree program. 

Learn more about the collaborative specializations offered to students in this program:

• Aging, Palliative and Supportive Care Across the Life Course
• Comparative, International and Development Education
• Environment and Health
• Environmental Studies
• Sexual Diversity Studies
• Women and Gender Studies
• Workplace Learning and Social Change 

Faculty in the AECD program  have multi-disciplinary teaching and research expertise in a wide range of fields.  Our faculty's expertise includes, but is not limited to: 

• Community organizing and development
• Workplace and organizational learning for social change
• Social movement learning and the social economy
• Comparative international education and development
• Popular education
• Indigenous education
• Education for sustainability
• Community healing and peacebuilding
• Adult literacy
• Feminism, anti-racism and migration

Information on scholarships available to OISE students . The Bonnie Burstow Scholarship is specific to the Adult Education & Community Development program.

The Bonnie Burstow Scholarship for Research into Violence Against Indigenous Women: In Memory of Helen Betty Osborne

This scholarship is to be awarded to an outstanding OISE graduate student whose thesis focuses on the violence itself, or the history underpinning it. Approaches to addressing the aftermath of violence can also be considered only if they are vested exclusively in Indigenous approaches. For the purposes of this Scholarship, violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Indigenous and Two-Spirit/Trans people is defined broadly. It includes not only what is conventionally seen as violence, such as murdered and missing, battery and rape, it also includes such international  violence as imprisonment, psychiatrization, and interference by child welfare. 

If in any given year, there is an applicant to the MA or PhD program in Adult Education at OISE whose intended thesis fits the criteria and is deemed worthy by the University, the Scholarship may be offered to the applicant as part of the admissions package. Otherwise, after a competition in which any current OISE student may apply, the Scholarship will be offered to an OISE student, irrespective of program or department, whose thesis centrally involves research in this area. Preference will be given to Indigenous women students and Indigenous students who identity as Two-Spirit.

There is no automatic application process for this scholarship, but rather as part of the admissions process all new applicants to thesis programs in Adult Education & Community Development, will automatically be considered for the award; nonetheless, prospective students are free to draw attention to their suitability for this award in their Statement of Intent.  In the event that no one is given the award during the admissions process, applications for from students who are already in the program will open in the Spring.

At this time, the Department of Leadership, Higher & Adult Education admits one (1) funded international applicant to its full-time Ph.D. programs each year – rotating between the programs of Adult Education & Community Development (AECD), Education Leadership & Policy (ELP), and Higher Education (HE).  

In doing so, HE will admit one international student in 2023, AECD will admit one international Ph.D. student in 2024, and ELP will admit one international student in 2025, and onwards in the order of HE, AECD, ELP.  

However, the Department may consider applications from international applicants where home governments, international organizations or funding agencies can provide them with funding. The funding must minimally have the value and duration of the graduate funding package that is offered and should be indicated on the application. Please review the  Graduate Funding Package website .

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• Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies (PhD)
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The PhD in Educational Studies is a research-oriented doctoral program for students interested in any of the study areas offered in the department, such as adult and community education and social movements; citizenship and human rights; continuing professional education; cultural politics, critical multiculturalism and feminist studies; educational leadership and policy; epistemology (the study of knowledge and knowing), ethics, and political philosophy; equity in education (on the axes of race, disability, gender, class, and sexuality); Indigenous education; international and comparative education; media, popular culture and representation or youth and children in schools, families, and communities.

Students are required to take two first-year doctoral seminars and a second-year doctoral seminar. All other courses in a student's program are determined in consultation with faculty. Students in the PhD program typically devote two years to coursework, and two to four years to developing and carrying out a research project designed to make an original contribution to knowledge in the study area.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

I am pursing a graduate degree because I want to teach at the university level, and so that I can make meaningful contributions to public policy.

Stephanie Glick

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, program instructions.

Please ensure you follow the instructions in the online application system. After submitting your application, it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all supporting materials are submitted properly and by the application deadline. The Admissions Committee will only review complete applications. You can check the status of your application and supporting materials through the online application system.

1) Check Eligibility

Minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 92

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 6.5

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2025 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

• Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies (PhD)

It is very important to contact at least one EDST faculty member who could be a potential supervisor of your PhD work (i.e. has expertise and interest in the area and/or topic you want to focus on) and inquire whether they would be willing to supervise your work.

Citizenship Verification

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial Support

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

All full-time students in UBC-Vancouver PhD programs will be provided with a funding package of at least $24,000 for each of the first four years of their PhD from September 2024. The funding package may consist of any combination of internal or external awards, teaching-related work, research assistantships, and graduate academic assistantships. Please note that many graduate programs provide funding packages that are substantially greater than $24,000 per year. Please check with your prospective graduate program for specific details of the funding provided to its PhD students.

Average Funding

• 5 students received Teaching Assistantships. Average TA funding based on 5 students was $5,974.
• 9 students received Research Assistantships. Average RA funding based on 9 students was $7,124.
• 8 students received Academic Assistantships. Average AA funding based on 8 students was $8,159.
• 22 students received internal awards. Average internal award funding based on 22 students was $20,418.
• 4 students received external awards. Average external award funding based on 4 students was $29,583.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Outcomes

74 students graduated between 2005 and 2013: 3 graduates are seeking employment; 1 is in a non-salaried situation; for 4 we have no data (based on research conducted between Feb-May 2016). For the remaining 66 graduates:

Sample Employers in Higher Education

Sample employers outside higher education, sample job titles outside higher education, phd career outcome survey, alumni on success.

Olen Gunnlaugson

Job Title Associate Professor in Leadership and Organizational Development

Employer Université Laval

Randy Wollf

Job Title President

Employer PaperLift Document Editing

Kenneth Tupper

Job Title Director of Implementation & Partnerships

Employer BC Centre on Substance Use

Kaela Jubas

Job Title Associate Professor

Employer University of Calgary

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies (PhD). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Completion Rates & Times

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Abdi, Ali (Comparative and cross-cultural education; Decolonizing philosophies of education, Development education, Critical research methodologies,; Human rights education)
• Ahenakew, Cash (Cultural studies, Higher Education, Indigenous Studies, Leadership and Organizations, Post-colonial studies, Race/ethnicity, Research methodologies, Social justice, Sociology of Education)
• Andres, Lesley (Higher education; life course research; international comparative higher education; sociology of higher education)
• De Oliveira Andreotti, Vanessa (Education for/about international development, Social accountability in local and global engagements, Global Citizenship Education)
• Ellis, Jason (Canadian history; Specialized studies in education; Educational policy; Education policy; history of education)
• Fallon, Gerald (Indigenous Studies, International and Comparative Education, Leadership and Organizations, Policy, Research methodologies)
• Gill, Hartej (Cultural studies, Leadership and Organizations, Post-colonial studies, Teaching and Practice)
• Gleason, Mona (History, archaeology and related studies)
• Kelly, Deirdre (Children and youth, Gender studies, Media and democracy, Social justice, Sociology of Education)
• Kovach, Margaret
• Mazawi, Andre (Citizenship and democracy, Higher education, International and Comparative Education, Leadership and organizations, Research methodologies, Sociology of Education)
• Metcalfe, Amy (Educational policy; Higher education; Specialized studies in education; Higher Education Studies; Internationalization; Migration Studies; Academic Labour and Mobility; Higher Education Policy; Visual Research Methods; Campus Environments; Science and Knowledge)
• Rocha Perkerwicz, Samuel (Educational policy; Specialized studies in education; Philosophical Traditions in Education; philosophy of education)
• Roman, Leslie (Ethnography, Cultural studies, Disability studies, Sociology of Education)
• Ruitenberg, Claudia (History and philosophy of education; Political science and policy administration; Environmental education and extension; Environmental philosophy and education; philosophy of education; Political education)
• Shan, Hongxia (Other education, n.e.c.; Immigration and adult education and learning; Lifelong learning; Gender and work; Prof. learning)
• Stack, Michelle (Adult and continuing education, and community education; Educational policy; Media studies (except social media and digital media); Community Engaged Research; Knowledge translation; Cooperatives and Social Solidarity Economies; University Rankings and Equity; Disability studies; anti-racism; media education)
• Stein, Sharon Rebekah (Higher education; Educational policy; Specialized studies in education; Educational theory; Global education; Higher Education; International and comparative education; International education; Pedagogy and education; Post-colonial studies; Race/ethnicity; Social and Cultural Foundations of Education; Social justice; sustainability; climate change)
• Taylor, Alison (Adult and continuing education, and community education; Educational administration, management and leadership; Educational policy; Higher education; Specialized studies in education; Education, Knowledge and Skills; Educational Context; Political Contexts; Social Contexts; Social Policies)
• Vanwynsberghe, Robert (Citizenship and democracy, Social justice, Sustainability; Sustainability; Environmental Education; Theory and Method)
• Walker, Judith (Adult and continuing education, and community education; Sociology of education; Educational policy; Adult education; Higher Education; policy studies; Health Professions Education)
• Wang, Fei (Educational administration, management and leadership; Educational policy; Specialized studies in education; Educational administration and leadership; Leadership; the role of the school principals; social justice and diversity; comparative policy studies; Education and Training Management; Ideology and Social Policy; Social Contract and Social Justice; Offshore school and its leadership)
• Webb, P. Taylor (Education systems; Philosophy; Education governance, policy, and politics; Michel Foucault; Gilles Deleuze; Neoliberalism; Governmentality; Micropolitics; Biopolitics; Subjectivity; Artificial Intelligence)
• Wright, Handel (Educational policy; Specialized studies in education; (post)multiculturalism and multicultural education; Africana studies; Critical Race Theory; Cultural Studies; Educational Approaches; identity, citizenship and belonging; postcolonialism and decolonization; Transcultural Studies; Youth Studies; anti-racism)

Doctoral Citations

Sample Thesis Submissions

• Teachers’ material, moral and legal conditions on World Teachers’ Day : a networked movement of Egyptian teachers on Facebook
• Inter/nationalization of higher education : the case of academic mobility and knowledge generation at Qatar University
• Coherence, consistency, contradiction : portraits of postsecondary educators seeking ecological integrity
• Coherence, consistency, contradiction : portraits of postsecondary educators seeking ecological integrity : [supplementary material]
• Indigenizing : one heart at a time
• Educational technology implementation among BC first nation communities : a cross-cultural lens reflection
• Medical citizenship and the social right to health care in Canada : a genealogy of medical education discourses
• Ethnocultural pluralism and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme
• Promoting transformative learning in nursing international field schools
• The construction of lifelong and lifewide education in Russia and the USSR, 1721 – 2021
• The ethics of edugration : Canada’s higher education-migration nexus

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Master of Arts in Educational Studies (MA)
• Master of Education in Educational Studies (MEd)

Same Academic Unit

• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy (EdD)
• Graduate Certificate in Adult Learning and Education (GCALE)
• Graduate Certificate in Higher Education (GCHIED)
• Master of Education in Adult Learning and Education (MEd)
• Master of Education in Adult Learning and Global Change (MEd)
• Master of Education in Curriculum and Leadership (MEd)
• Master of Education in Educational Administration and Leadership (MEd)
• Master of Education in Higher Education (MEd)
• Master of Education in Society, Culture and Politics in Education (MEd)

Further Information

Specialization.

Educational Studies offers concentrations in Adult Learning and Education; Higher Education; Society, Culture and Politics in Education; and Educational Administration and Leadership.

UBC Calendar

Program website, faculty overview, academic unit, program identifier, classification, social media channels, supervisor search.

Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

Jonathan Easey

I mean what’s not to love about UBC? You get to live in Vancouver AND get a degree from one of the top universities in the world! I suppose I should also mention that UBC is one of the few institutions globally with a significant research focus on health education. I’m very fortunate to be part of...

Daniel Gallardo

I found an integrated program at the University of British Columbia for advancing Indigenous perspectives and decolonial curriculum in education. I enrolled as a graduate student in the Educational Studies program to engage with transdisciplinary research on social and educational topics related to...

Orkhon Gantogtokh

UBC’s strong expertise in academic leadership and visionary approach to doctoral education resonates with my career ambition of becoming a resourceful academic leader and a potent agent of change in doctoral education in Mongolia. Moreover, I was eager to be supervised by leading researchers in...

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UBC captured my heart with the Longhouse, with Sto:lo professors, with Musqueam Elders and with the everyday reminders that Indigenous students are welcome here. To be reflected and included in the everyday life of the institution strengthens my heart with every step I take.

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2024-2025 OISE Bulletin

Course description by course code, adult education and community development phd.

The PhD is a research-based thesis degree program which can be taken on a full-time or flexible-time basis. Designed to provide opportunities for advanced study in the theoretical foundations of adult education and community development and in the application of such knowledge to practice, the PhD focuses on learning that happens individually and collectively among adults in communities, workplaces, social movements, the street, and the virtual world — any place where people come together to create social change.

This program is delivered in person, which means that while the program may offer some courses online, a student will take less than one-third of their courses online.

Except for the time to completion, requirements for both the full-time and flexible-time programs are the same. The department welcomes applicants with diverse but relevant backgrounds.

Applicants to the flexible-time option should be active professionals who demonstrate connections between their professional work and their proposed course program, and/or between their professional work and their proposed research. Capacity to secure blocks of time to enable concentrated study is required.

PhD Program (Full-Time Option)

Minimum admission requirements.

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Leadership, Higher and Adult Education's additional admission requirements stated below.

An appropriate master's degree from a recognized university in a relevant discipline or professional program, with a minimum standing equivalent to a University of Toronto B+.

In addition to responses to the Faculty questions in the online admissions application, a sample of written work is required, which will help the admissions committee to assess an applicant's readiness to succeed in rigorous coursework and to conduct systematic research for the PhD. Applicants typically submit a master's-level Major Research Paper or thesis as their sample of written work. Applicants who do not have a Major Research Paper or thesis must provide a sample of written work that showcases their ability to write clearly and analytically about issues related to adult education and community development. The admissions committee will look for evidence that applicants understand how to craft an academic document, define a research problem, devise an appropriate focus for an inquiry, assemble and analyze evidence and/or academic literatures, and develop conclusions in a rigorous manner. Examples include a master's-level course paper or professional publication.

Completion Requirements

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

LHA3102H Doctoral Thesis Seminar , recommended to be taken in the first session of the program.

At least 1.5 FCEs must be from the Adult Education and Community Development program. Students with little background in the area of Adult Education and Community Development may be required to complete an additional 0.5 FCE providing such background.

At least one research methods course (0.5 FCE).

Comprehensive requirement. Normally, a major paper between 7,000 and 12,000 words in length (including tables, figures, and references), which consists of a comprehensive discussion of one or more literatures and/or debates of significance to Adult Education and Community Development.

Students must register continuously and pay the full-time fee until all degree requirements have been fulfilled.

Students cannot transfer between the full-time and flexible-time PhD options.

Students cannot transfer between the EdD and PhD programs.

PhD Program (Flexible-Time Option)

In addition to responses to the Faculty questions in the online admissions application, a sample of written work is required, which will help the admissions committee to assess an applicant's readiness to succeed in rigorous coursework and to conduct systematic research for the PhD. Applicants typically submit a master's-level Major Research Paper or thesis as their sample of written work. Applicants who do not have a Major Research Paper or thesis must provide a sample of written work that showcases their ability to write clearly and analytically about issues related to adult education and community development. The admissions committee will look for evidence that applicants understand how to craft an academic document, define a research problem, devise an appropriate focus for an inquiry, assemble and analyze evidence and/or academic literatures, and develop conclusions in a rigorous manner. Examples include a master’s-level course paper or professional publication.

Applicants must demonstrate that they are active professionals engaged in activities related to their proposed program of study.

Students must register continuously until all degree requirements have been fulfilled. They register full-time during the first four years and may continue as part-time students thereafter, with their department's approval.

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School of Graduate Studies

Adult education and community development, program overview.

The Department of Leadership, Higher and Adult Education at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) offers the Adult Education and Community Development program, leading to the Master of Arts , Master of Education , and Doctor of Philosophy degrees .

The MA is a research-based degree and can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. During their program of study, MA students are expected to have exposure to both qualitative and quantitative approaches to research but can focus on either approaches or mixed-methods approaches for their thesis work.

The MEd is a non-thesis degree program which can be taken on either a full-time or part-time basis.

The PhD degree program is designed to provide opportunities for advanced study in the theoretical foundations of adult education and community development and in the application of such knowledge to practice. This program offers both full-time and flexible-time options. To be admitted to the flexible-time option, applicants should be active professionals who demonstrate connections between their professional work and their proposed course program, and/or between their professional work and their proposed research.

Quick Facts

“My research looks at how citizens leverage technology to respond to crises in cyberspace.”

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Education (PhD)

Program overview Program structure Admission requirements Application process Tuition & funding

Program overview

The PhD in Education will give you advanced knowledge of the qualitative and quantitative methods used in educational research. You will examine the disciplinary links between childhood and adult education and strengthen your understanding of underlying educational philosophies. Our program provides a solid foundation from which to pursue research across disciplines and orientations. Our faculty members specialize in four major subfields: applied linguistics, child studies, educational studies and educational technology. Graduate students have exclusive use of our state-of-the-art facilities , including personalized research spaces, computer workstations and a media development lab. Along with a growing number of students and faculty you will be contributing to cutting-edge research in education and the civic life of the department.

Program structure

Degree requirements, degree requirements.

Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 90 credits.

Please see the Education Courses page for course descriptions.

Education PhD (90 credits)

Admission requirements

Admission requirements.

• MA in Education, Applied Linguistics, Child Studies, Educational Studies, or Educational Technology, with high standing, from an accredited university.
• Applicants with a Master's degree in a related field or discipline, such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, adult education, and human resource development, are considered.
• Applicants from other disciplines might be offered conditional admission which may include fulfilling prerequisite courses.
• Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the English language proficiency page for further information on requirements and exemptions.

Application process

Application deadlines.

Priority will be given to complete applications submitted by the deadline. In some cases, programs may continue to accept applications as long as there is space available.

International students: Considering the waiting period involved in meeting the entry requirements to Canada and Quebec , we strongly encourage international applicants to apply early and submit supporting documents prior to the deadline.

Tuition & funding

Tuition and fees.

Tuition and fees of the program may depend on your student status, among other key factors. Estimate these costs based on the most common situations.

Awards and funding

Funding packages are generally available for students in thesis-based programs. They come in the form of awards, teaching and research assistantships are offered at the time of admission to most students to allow them to focus on their research and studies. Research and thesis-based students are automatically considered for all entrance graduate awards when they apply to Concordia, provided they meet eligibility criteria. No separate application is required.

The Quebec and Canadian governments offer a number of competitive graduate scholarships. We encourage you to apply for these awards at the same time you are preparing your application.

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Doctor of Education in Distance Education

At a glance.

• Credential: doctorate degree
• Credits: 18
• Next start: see program details

Athabasca University’s online Doctor of Education in Distance Education is a professional doctoral degree for distance education practitioners and those with related career experience.

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About Doctor of Education in Distance Education

At Athabasca University, we're proud to offer North America's first online Doctor of Education in Distance Education (EdD). Designed for professionals in distance education, adult education, and related fields, this 18-credit doctoral program provides you with the advanced skills and research opportunities you need to excel in leadership roles. The program is accessible and flexible for working professionals, with one intake per year and an online grouped study format that includes a 1-week, on-site orientation.

Admission requirements

Normally, admission requirements include a master’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum grade point average (GPA). See full Doctor of Education in Distance Education admission requirements

Program details

Tuition and fees, career options.

The EdD provides rigorous preparation for advanced responsibilities and leadership in the distance-learning field, including:

• implementing
• researching

Research is an important focus, as you will be expected to make an original and significant contribution to their profession as part of your doctoral program. Research opportunities include:

• examination of practice
• theory-building
• basic research

More conceptual or theoretical interests may also be accommodated.

Why take the Doctor of Education in Distance Education?

AU is a global leader in distance education teaching, scholarship, and program innovation. You will be learning from leaders in the field.

As a professional doctoral degree, the EdD program provides a relevant and accessible learning context designed for the working professional. This program may be of interest to:

• distance education
• adult education
• continuing education
• policy development and implementation
• academics, teachers, and instructors who wish to specialize in aspects of distance education research and scholarship
• instructional design specialists
• senior-level managers and program planners

The Doctor of Education in Distance Education is an 18-credit online doctoral program. You must normally complete the entire program through Athabasca University. (Inquire if you have questions.)

Application deadlines and start dates

There is only 1 EdD intake each year. The application deadline is in January, and classes start in May. An orientation in Edmonton or Athabasca for 1 week is a program requirement. All courses are online grouped study, with defined start and end dates. As noted above, the program includes a 5-day on-site orientation.

Completion times

Finish this program in as little as 4 years of study. You can take up to 5 years to complete all requirements.

Understanding how higher education fees and tuition are calculated is important to ensure you stay within your budget and make informed decisions.

Financial aid and awards

We're dedicated to supporting your academic goals and committed to helping you overcome financial barriers by providing many funding and award options.

The following fees are effective Jan. 1, 2024, to Aug. 31, 2024. All fees are quoted in Canadian dollars and are subject to change. Academic-related fees are exempt from the Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST). GST is added to all other goods and services, for example, workshops, some publications, self-help seminars, and Athabasca University promotional sales items.

The EdD fees consist of a yearly program fee and individual course fees. The annual program fee is paid in three installments (see the example below). Individual course fees are due by the course registration deadline.

If a company or other organization is sponsoring your tuition, we will require a Letter of Guarantee.

* Students may take up to 5 years to complete their degree. After year 4 (12 installments of $1,810 already paid), there will be a continuation fee of $1,810 payable each 4-month term.

†Should Candidacy and/or EDDE 806 not be completed in year 3, they may be completed in year 4. Students work towards completing their dissertation in year 4. Please note that students must pay a minimum of 12 program installments even if they complete the program in less than 4 years

Fee information effective Jan. 1, 2024, to Aug. 31, 2024.

At Athabasca University, our Doctor of Education in Distance Education (EdD) program is thoughtfully structured to facilitate collaborative learning and professional growth. The program is cohort-based, admitting around 12 students each year who will generally progress through the program together, offering you a chance to network and learn within a diverse community of skilled professionals. Your journey kicks off with a mandatory 5-day orientation, combining instruction, program planning, and community-building activities. The coursework is paced and sequential, featuring 6 core online courses along with important milestones like the proposal defence and dissertation, ensuring you meet the highest standards of proficiency in scholarship, research, and teaching.

To complete the program you will need to fulfill all the general requirements of the Doctor of Education in Distance Education.

Our program regulations can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you’ll take them in.

Program regulations

Courses to explore

Below are some of the courses that our students take in this program. Please consult an advisor to confirm any course planning , as some of these courses may not apply to you.

Focus areas

With a Doctor of Education in Distance Education from Athabasca University, you'll be well-equipped for high-level roles in distance and adult education, including academic research, policy development, and program planning. Whether you're eyeing positions as a senior educational administrator, instructional design specialist, or a consultant in educational technologies, this credential will give you the expertise to lead and innovate in your field.

Depending on your experience and goals, some careers may include:

• chief learning officer
• academic researcher
• director of distance education
• academic dean of online programs
• education policy advisor
• senior instructional designer
• research director in educational technology
• educational consultant
• program director for adult education
• university provost
• educational technology strategist

Resources and links

Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.

Program resources

• Visit program website
• Apply online
• View Calendar

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Doctoral (Ph.D.) Programs

If you have a passion for research and innovation, then pursuing your PhD is your gateway to becoming an expert in your chosen field! At McGill Education, you will be mentored by world-class researchers and collabourate with in international scholars. The Faculty's doctoral students have the opportunity to play a role in driving societal innovation in the areas of education studies, educational or counselling psychology, or kinesiology and sport science. Make lifelong connections along your academic journey and take advantage of the many funding prospects available.

Gain insight into our array of PhD programs and get to know the world-class experts in the Faculty of Education to connect with potential supervisors.

Departmental Grad Studies Overview Videos:

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• Veuillez noter qu'une version française de ce site est en cours de développement et sera publiée dans les prochains mois, au cours de l'année académique 2024-25.

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PhD in Adult Learning

Thesis-based, on campus degree

The PhD in Adult Learning program is informed by a rich heritage rooted in a commitment to human, community and social development. As a hub of interdisciplinarity, the focus of graduate studies within this specialization is on adult learning and adult education. Our graduate students draw from multiple and diverse contexts and interest areas, which include: traditional post-secondary and continuing education; business and industry; NGOs; community development and international organizations.

Program Information for Current Students

Program requirements.

Please refer to the  University Calendar  to view official program requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree.

In addition to the requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Graduate Programs in Education requires that students be available on campus for the first two years of their program.

a) Educational Research 702 and 704;

b) Additional 9 units of 700-level thesis-based courses in research methods (excluding EDER 707, 708, 709, 710, 711 and 712);

c) Additional graduate courses or seminars as required by the student's specialization.  Courses may be selected from any 700-level Education Research courses:

• Adult Learning requires 9 units which must focus on Adult Learning.

Course requirements

You can view current Graduate Programs in Education course schedules by visiting the  PhD homepage .

Graduate courses from other departments, faculties, or universities may be taken to partially fulfill your degree requirements. Approval from your supervisor and the unit in question are required to take these courses. Please ensure that your Graduate Program Administrator in Graduate Programs in Education receives written confirmation of these approvals. 

Expected completion time for full-time students is four years with a maximum completion time of six years.

Supervisory Assignments

A supervisor is normally appointed at the time of admission.

Checklists and Forms

Doctoral Procedures Checklist

At the beginning of program:

• Register for an eID to access  myUCalgary . Keep your eID and password confidential.
• Accept your Offer of Admission in the online Student Centre .
• Activate your UCalgary  IT account  and e-mail. You will be expected to regularly check your UCalgary e-mail while in program.
• Confirm your current e-mail address to your Graduate Program Administrator (see your Admission Letter for contact information). Please include your full name, UCID number, program, and specialization.
• Connect with your supervisor to plan your program.
• Initialize your registration .
• Register for courses.
• Check with the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Research Services, and SSHRC for possible research funding.
• Attend orientation at the beginning of September!

Within 12 months:

• Confirm the number of courses required for program completion with the supervisor.
• Submit your online Annual Progress Report form through your online Student Centre. Your progress report must be approved by your supervisor, and Graduate Program Director or designate.

Every 12 Months:

• Complete  registration initialization .

Within 15 months:

• Consult with supervisor regarding the appointment of the supervisory committee. Complete the Appointment of Supervisory Committee form.

Within 28 months:

• Request candidacy examination guidelines.
• Complete all course work prior to the candidacy examination.
• Submit a research proposal to the supervisory committee. If acceptable, this proposal is signed by the members of the supervisory committee and placed in the student's file.
• Complete candidacy requirements and examination.

Within 4 to 6 years:

• Have ethics application approved before collection of data.
• Complete thesis and final oral examination.
• Submit two unbound copies of the thesis to the Faculty of Graduate Studies along with the Thesis Clearance form.
• Submit an Application for Degree through your Student Centre .
• Attend convocation and celebrate!

Course Registration & Schedules

Please visit our  PhD homepage  to view the current schedule of courses.

We encourage students to consult with their supervisor to select courses.

Administrative Questions?

Sylvia Parks, Graduate Program Administrator (GPA) [email protected]

Academic Questions?

Dr. Theodora Kapoyannis, Academic Coordinator, PhD in Adult Learning, [email protected]

Visit the Faculty of Graduate Studies' homepage to see information for thesis-based students.

PhD in Educational Studies

• EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy
• MA in Educational Studies
• MEd : (ALE) Adult Learning and Education
• MEd : (ALGC) Adult Learning and Global Change
• MEd : (CULE) Curriculum and Leadership
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Graduate admission

• Requirements

The PhD in Educational Studies is a research-oriented doctoral program for students interested in any of the study areas offered in the department.

Students are required to take three doctoral seminars. All other courses in a student’s program are determined in consultation with faculty. Students in the PhD program typically devote two years to coursework, and two to four years to developing and carrying out a research project designed to make an original contribution to knowledge in the study area.

The university allows doctoral students up to six years to complete program requirements. There is no set number of credits required for PhD programs at UBC.

For further facts and figures about the PhD in Educational Studies, please click here .

Admissions Requirements for Graduate Study

All graduate program applicants in the Department of Educational Studies (EDST) must meet the minimum entry requirements established by the Faculty of Graduate Studies, which oversees graduate work at UBC. Applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements will be considered for admission only in exceptional circumstances.

Admission to the PhD program is highly competitive, based on the pool of applicants considered by the Admissions Committee, and subject to university and departmental requirements and departmental capacities for supervision.

More Info: http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/graduate-degree-programs/phd-educational-studies

Please note: Applicants with full-funding from scholarships, fellowships, or alike, are still required to complete the PhD application process in the Department of Educational Studies (EDST).  In addition, all applicants will undergo adjudication by the PhD committee to determine admission. To be clear, applicants who bring full-funding with them are not automatically admitted .

General Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to a PhD program at UBC, applicants must hold a master's degree (or equivalent) from an approved institution with clear evidence of research ability or potential; or a bachelor’s degree with one year of study in a master's program with 12 credits of first class average, of which 9 credits must be at the 500-level or above and at least 9 credits must be of first class standing and clear evidence of research ability or potential. (For more detailed admissions requirements, please see the links below).

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies - Minimum Academic Requirements: Canadian or U.S. Credentials http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/application-admission/minimum-academic-requirements-canadian-or-us-credentials

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies - Minimum Academic Requirements: International Credentials http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/application-admission/minimum-academic-requirements-international-credentials

English Requirements

English Proficiency Test Score: Applicants whose degrees are from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must present evidence of competency to pursue studies in the English language prior to being extended an offer of admission. Acceptable English language proficiency tests for applicants to graduate studies are:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 600 (paper version), 250 (computer version), 92 with a minimum of 22 in each component (iTB) is required for admission to all programs in Educational Studies. Visit TOEFL’s website
• IELTS (International English Language Testing Service): Minimum overall band score of 6.5 with no other component score less than 6.0.
• MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery): Minimum overall score of 81.

The applicants must have an official report of their score on one of these tests sent directly from the testing service to the Graduate Program Assistant, Department of Educational Studies at the address below by the application deadline. Score reports more than two years old will not be accepted.

More Information: http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/application-admission/english-proficiency-requirements

Most importantly with regard to a PhD application, please note that among other applicable requirements requested by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and by other UBC competent jurisdictions, as part of such an application you must submit:

• A Statement of Intent (800-1200 words) which clearly shows that your research topic/interest fits within the department in terms of prospective supervisors and areas of interest. Such a statement should also articulate the general research directions you would like to pursue during your program, if admitted. This statement should be 800-1200 words.
• A sample of your writing and engagement with research  (maximum 5,000 words without references). The intent is to demonstrate your ability to communicate your ideas and your interests in a clear way. Writing samples typically take the form of an excerpt from a chapter from a masters thesis, a published article, or a substantial scholarly paper
• Entries on your transcript showing evidence of having taken courses on research methods (quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods, ethnographic or philosophical) and research more generally at the Masters level.

Also, while this is not a requirement, it is very important for you to contact at least one faculty member who could be a potential supervisor of your work (has expertise and interest in the area and/or topic you want to focus on) and inquire whether they would be willing to supervise your work ( see list of faculty and areas of expertise at: https://edst.educ.ubc.ca/faculty-staff/faculty ). Even if they do not commit to supervising your work, you could list such a faculty member (one or even two is acceptable) as a potential supervisor when you apply (which would provide further proof of your suitability for the PhD and familiarity with the programmes and areas of expertise of faculty).

In May 2017 the UBC-V Senate approved the establishment of a university-wide minimum funding level for all PhD students. Specifically, all full-time students who begin a UBC-Vancouver PhD program in September 2018 or later will be provided with a minimum funding package equal to $18,000 for each of the first four years of their PhD. The funding package may consist of any combination of internal or external awards, teaching-related work, research assistantships, and graduate academic assistantships.

For more information, see:

https://www.grad.ubc.ca/awards/minimum-funding-policy-phd-students

Doctoral students are also expected to apply for and obtain  funding. Our faculty are very supportive in this regard, and are able to help their supervised students build their applications, as well as supporting them by writing letters of appraisal.

If you do not live in Vancouver at present, you may want to consider the cost of living in Vancouver, and obtain further information from the website of the Faculty of Graduate Studies ( http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students ).

Program Requirements

Program Worksheets are available here: https://edst.educ.ubc.ca/resources/policies/

Doctoral Seminar and Colloquium

There are three required courses in the PhD program.

The first doctoral seminar (EDST 601A) is designed to help beginning students become familiar with the department, policies and procedures related to doctoral studies, and for an examination of critical theoretical traditions and conceptual problems in the social sciences as applied to education.

The second doctoral seminar (EDST 601B) exposes students to positivist, interpretive, historical, and philosophical methods, and a deep understanding of current methodological issues and debates.

The third doctoral seminar (EDST 602) explores what it means to engage in a doctoral experience with particular focus on scholarly writing, preparing for comprehensive exams, and thesis proposals.

Coursework in Specialization

Students in the PhD program are expected to take courses in their specialization so that they are familiar with current theory and research. Courses are selected in consultation with an adviser or program advisory committee.

Courses in the student’s specialization should be completed in the first year of the program.

Other Coursework

PhD students typically take additional courses to give them the breadth and depth of understanding of contemporary educational theories. Doctoral study is oriented toward the thesis research, but relevant coursework beyond the student’s specialization is recommended.

Research Methods

PhD students are expected to be familiar with the various methods used in contemporary educational research and to master the particular methods relative to their research. Developing proficiency in research methods normally requires enrolling in available courses and reading widely in the research methods literature. Before research proposals are approved, students are expected to demonstrate that they have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully carry out their research plan.

Comprehensive Examination

All students in the PhD program are required to successfully complete a comprehensive examination after their coursework and before they present their research proposal. The examination is prepared by the student’s program adviser or research supervisory committee. Details about the mechanics of the examination and the options in format of the examination can be obtained from advisers or the department’s Graduate Program Assistant.

The PhD thesis is an original piece of research in the student’s area of specialization. Students develop research proposals which must be approved by a research supervisory committee of a supervisor and at least two other committee members. Research supervisory committees provide direction to the student, read and critique drafts of the thesis, and participate in the final oral examination.

PhD Residency

There is no residency requirement per se, but PhD students are expected to make steady progress through their coursework, comprehensive exams and thesis research. Current policies require PhD students to achieve candidacy by the end of their third year of study. Achieving candidacy involves completing all coursework, passing the comprehensive exam and having an approved research proposal.

Apply Online: http://www.grad.ubc.ca/apply/online/

Admission to the PhD program is on a competitive basis, within the broader context of the pool of applicants considered by the Committee, subject to university and departmental requirements and to departmental capacities for supervision.

Applications should be submitted online at  www.grad.ubc.ca/apply/online . All of the following components of an application must be received by the department’s Graduate Program Assistant before the file can be reviewed by the appropriate admissions committee. Without complete documentation, the application review process cannot begin.

a. Online UBC application form . When you submit an online application at  www.grad.ubc.ca/apply/online , the completed form is automatically forwarded to the Department's Graduate Program Assistant. A non-refundable processing fee payable is to UBC: see the cover of the official UBC application form for the exact amount.

b. Upload digital copies (.pdfs) of official transcripts.  See Digital Copies of Official Transcripts tab for details

c. Three references –  The purpose of the references is to provide a comprehensive portrayal of your relevant background and capacity to complete the PhD. Letters of reference should speak to your ability to pursue research and produce scholarly writing at the doctoral level. Suitable referees include professors, supervisors, principals, or other persons to whom you are, or have been, accountable academically in employment or as a volunteer. Academic references are preferred. If the original letter is in another language, the letter must be accompanied by a certified English translation. There are three possible formats for references:

• Electronic references : In the online application system, applicants are asked to provide an email address for each referee. Once the online application has been submitted, a unique link will be emailed to each referee, allowing her or him to log in to a secure site and submit an online reference or upload a reference document as an attachment.
• Letters of reference (hard copy or email attachment) : Your referee may wish to send a paper letter. Paper letters of reference should be on referee’s official letterhead and must be mailed directly by the referee to the Graduate Program Assistant (see address below) in a sealed and endorsed envelope, or as a .pdf email attachment.
• Reference forms (hard copy or email attachment) : UBC provides a  general reference form . Your referee may fill out this form and mail it directly to the relevant program in a sealed and endorsed envelope, or send it as a .pdf email attachment.
• All references must be sent by referees directly. Reference letters or forms submitted by the applicant will not be accepted .
• The application system and department are unable to accept referee emails from Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail, MSN or other free email accounts.
• By “sealed, endorsed envelope” we mean that the envelope needs to be sealed and that the signature of the referee be placed over the seal (i.e., partially on the flap and partially on the rest of the envelope).

Note: It is advisable to contact referees and inform them of the Admissions deadline early in your process.

d. Statement of intent.  You need to describe your specific interests in pursuing a PhD and precisely why you are applying to the Department of Educational Studies and to the program or concentration you have selected (800-1200 words). This statement should highlight the following:

• Your engagement with graduate research , which clearly shows that your research topic/interest fits within the department in terms of prospective supervisors and areas of interest.
• The general research directions you would like to pursue during your program, if admitted.
• Name(s) of faculty member(s) with whom you have been in contact and/or who you identify as being suitable as research supervisor

e. Writing Sample (maximum 5,000 words without references)

• The intent is to demonstrate your engagement with research and your ability to communicate your ideas and your interests in a clear way. Writing samples typically take the form of an excerpt from a chapter from a masters thesis, a published article, or a substantial scholarly paper.

f. Curriculum Vitae / Resume

Please provide a CV as evidence of your potential to succeed in EDST at the graduate level.

After submitting your application, it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all supporting materials are submitted by the application deadline. The Admissions Committee will only review completed applications. You can check the status of your application and supporting materials through the online application system .

Applicants from outside Canada should be aware of additional requirements that may apply. Please read the following to determine which of these requirements may apply to you.

International Credentials Equivalency

Please see the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies website: http://www.grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/application-admission/minimum-academic-requirements-international-credentials

International Transcripts and Translation Requirements

See International Transcripts and Translation Requirements tab for details

Entering Canada

To enter Canada, a “Student Authorization” (Student Visa) is required. Apply as soon as possible to the nearest Canadian Consular or Immigration Office since it may take 8–10 weeks for processing. For applicants applying from the People’s Republic of China it may take 3–6 months. Applying for a Student Authorization requires a UBC letter of admission/acceptance; a valid passport; and evidence of adequate funds for tuition, maintenance of the student and, if married, the student’s spouse and children, plus travel funds to and from Canada. Please consult the Immigration Canada website:  http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/index.asp .

If the application for a visa is approved, the UBC letter of admission/acceptance will be returned to the student and must be retained for presentation to the Immigration Officer at the Canadian point of entry.

Canadian Transcripts

UBC has changed its application document requirements.

If you are applying to begin study in 2016 or beyond, you will normally scan and upload digital copies (.pdfs) of official required documents in the application system. These are considered "unofficial documents". These uploaded copies of your official documents will be used for initial evaluation of the applicant.

Conditional admission offers may be made based on documents uploaded to the application system. However, admission offers will not be finalized and applicants will not be allowed to register in a graduate program until one set of all required official academic records are received and validated by the University.

UPLOADING UNOFFICIAL COPIES OF TRANSCRIPTS IN THE APPLICATION SYSTEM

Applicants with Canadian transcripts (other than UBC) must obtain an official paper transcript for every post-secondary institution they have attended.  UBC transcripts are not required.

Each transcript should be scanned as an individual .pdf file and then uploaded to the application system as indicated. They should be named: "Applicant Full Name-Document Description.extension"

Kelly Smith-University of Waterloo Transcript.pdf Kelly Smith-CV.pdf Kelly Smith-Journal of Neurosciences Paper.pdf

Transcripts must be scanned front and back. All pages of one transcript, front and back, should be uploaded as a single file (rather than a separate file for each page).

OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS

To be considered official, academic records must either be received in official university envelopes, sealed and endorsed by the issuing institution, or be sent via secure electronic delivery by the issuing institution.

If you have been offered admission conditional upon receipt of official documentation, you must provide UBC with one set of official transcripts for every postsecondary institution you have attended for the equivalent of one year or more of full-time study. UBC reserves the right to also require any individual applicant to provide official transcripts for study of less than one year duration. Do not send official transcripts before receiving an offer of admission unless you have received special instructions from the graduate program to which you have applied.

Documents being provided to meet conditions of admission should be sent directly to:

Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies University of British Columbia 6371 Crescent Rd Vancouver, BC CANADA  V6T 1Z2

CURRENT AND FORMER UBC STUDENTS

You do not need to submit UBC transcripts as part of your graduate application, as this data is already available through the student database system. However, be aware that you are still responsible for submitting transcripts from all other post-secondary institutions that you have attended (e.g., exchange year, transfer year, etc.).

International Transcripts and Translations

UPLOADING UNOFFICIAL COPIES OF REQUIRED DOCUMENTS IN THE APPLICATION SYSTEM

Applicants with transcripts from non-Canadian post-secondary institutions must obtain an official paper transcript for every post-secondary institution they have attended.

Each transcripts should be scanned as an individual .pdf file and then uploaded to the application system as indicated. Otherwise, they should be named: "Applicant Full Name-Document Description.extension"

Peng Zhang-Peking University Transcript.pdf Peng Zhang-Peking University Transcript English Translation.pdf Peng Zhang-CV.pdf Peng Zhang-Journal of Neurosciences Paper.pdf

If you have transcripts that are issued in a language other than English, then in addition to uploading digital copies of the documents in their original language, you must also upload a certified literal English translation of your transcripts from your home university's translation service or certified English translator.

Please consult the document scanning and uploading instructions provided within the online application for detailed instructions.

OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS

After being offered admission: If you have been offered admission conditional upon receipt of official documentation, you must provide UBC with one set of official transcripts for every postsecondary institution you have attended for the equivalent of one year or more of full-time study. UBC reserves the right to also require any individual applicant to provide official transcripts for study of less than one year duration.

If an official transcript does not indicate the degree name and the degree conferral date, then an official copy of the degree certificate must also be submitted

If your university issues only one original copy of transcripts/degree certificates:

Make photocopies of your original academic records and send them to your home university. Ask your home university to:

• verify that the photocopies are consistent with their records.
• attest that the copies are true photocopies and stamp them with an official university stamp.
• put the attested, stamped photocopies in sealed envelopes endorsed by the Registrar.
• mail the sealed, endorsed envelopes directly to Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies.

If your transcripts are issued in a language other than English:

• arrange to have a set of all official transcripts issued in their original language.
• obtain a certified literal English translation of your transcripts from your home university's translation service.
• send both the original transcripts and the literal English translation to UBC Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies.

If your home university does not provide English translations of transcripts:

• make a photocopy of your copy of your transcripts. Do not open a sealed, endorsed envelope containing transcripts intended for submission to your program.
• take the copy to a certified English translator and ask them to provide a complete, word-by-word, literal English translation.
• tell the translator to put both the original language photocopy and the English translation into a sealed envelope, and endorse the envelope by signing across the seal.
• send the sealed, endorsed envelopes from the translator to UBC Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies.
• send your original transcripts in the original language to UBC Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies.

Note: Academic records must be translated in their entirety, including any information that appears on the reverse side of any document.

UBC does not accept the following:

• photocopies that have not been stamped, attested and endorsed by the Registrar at your home university
• documents in envelopes that have been opened
• documents that do not arrive in sealed envelopes endorsed by the issuing institution or certified translator
• documents that arrive without the official seal of the university
• photocopies notarized by a notary public
• photocopies endorsed by a lawyer, professor, judge etc.
• unofficial translations
• non-literal translations

Do not send academic records that are not in sealed and endorsed envelopes. It will only delay the processing of your application.

Documents being provided to meet conditions of admission  should be sent directly to:

Tuition for PhD and EdD Programs

Tuition fees for PhD and EdD Programs are found on the UBC Calendar  website .

Note that fees are subject to change by the University.

Deadlines for applications

Deadlines for the EDST PhD program can be found on the EDST website .

Quick links:

EDST Graduate Program Assistant

PhD Management Chair

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Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD)

Join our inclusive research community of education experts. Our PhD program works on a mentorship model where new scholars work closely with established experts and collaborative research groups. Coursework is completed under the supervision of leading experts across the education spectrum. Our PhD graduates contribute innovative work transforming theory, policy and practice. We offer competitive funding packages and opportunities for our PhD students to be teaching or research fellows, as well as research or teaching assistants.

Research Expertise

Our faculty brings together diverse perspectives on education and foster multidisciplinary expertise in the following areas:

• Arts Education
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Curriculum Studies
• Early Childhood Education
• Exceptionalities
• History and Philosophy of Education
• Indigenous Education and Land-Based Learning 
• International Education
• Language and Literacy
• Leadership and Policy Studies
• Math, Science and Technology in Education
• Outdoor Education
• Social Justice and Inclusion
• Our program structure:  Our full-time, four-year, on-campus program has three terms per year. You will take courses for the first year, then complete two comprehensive examinations before beginning your dissertation.
• Funding: All of our PhD students are provided with a minimum funding package of $20,000 per year, with average funding of $25,000 per year including teaching opportunities and research assistantships.
• Quality supervision and support: Before you apply, you will contact a supervisor who supports your studies and research throughout the program.
• Small classes: Our courses are seminar style, small, and consist of 36 instructional hours. To view our courses, visit the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs calendar .
• Gain teaching and research experience: Many of our graduate students have the opportunity to teach within our Bachelor of Education programs and gain experience and funding in the process.
• Join an active research community: As part of your PhD, you will be immersed in an active research community with opportunities to work in research groups and attend academic conferences. 

Learn about our current students and recent alum

Join us for a Webinar

Want to learn more about our programs? 

• Wednesday, September 25, noon - 1 pm EST

Webinar Registration

Applications to all graduate programs are made through the  School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs website  starting in September for admission the following year. 

In addition to the online application and application fee, PhD applicants are required to submit the following documentation via email to  [email protected] :

• Fill out the PhD in Education Research Proposal form.
• an electronic PDF copy of resumé/curriculum vitae 

If you have questions, please contact the  Graduate Studies & Research Office .

Admission Requirements

• Successful completion of a Master's degree in Education or equivalent advanced-level credential with first-class standing (A- or 80% or higher) at a recognized university
• Professional experience in education or a related field is an asset
• Applicants are required to submit a brief research proposal (one to two pages maximum)
• Applicants must identify and contact a potential supervisor who has expressed a willingness to supervise their work if they apply for admission and receive an offer of admission. 

Application Deadline and Start Dates

Completed applications (including submission of transcripts, references, CV and research proposal form) are due by January 15 . Late applications are not considered.  Our program begins in September of each year.

Prospective PhD Students: Need Help Finding a Supervisor?

Use the checklist below to assist you in your search for a supervisor in our graduate studies program.

• Get to know our Research Faculty – Review our researcher profiles. Understanding who might be a good fit for you is a key first step in the process!
• Once you have identified potential fits from our researcher profiles page, examine some of their recent research to identify their areas of interest and expertise. This will help you to determine how they might support your own program of growth. Read through prospective supervisors’ research and professional publications before deciding if they would be a good fit for your research. You may be expected to explain to your potential supervisor how they are best suited to supervise your project with specific reference to the research faculty’s scholarly work.
• Express your interest in our program and in having them supervise you for a specific program start date.
• Briefly summarize your aims and research purpose.
• Identify links between their research and your own, particularly using some of the published work.
• An invitation to connect for a conversation.
• A 1–2-page proposal that provides more detail than your description in your email. Your proposal should articulate your research questions, your reasons for pursuing these questions, the purpose and aims of your prospective project, your research methodology, and the significance/impact of this research.
• An up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV) to provide the potential supervisor with some of your background information, including past studies and professional experience.
• Review your email to ensure you have said everything you need, and attached everything you want, and send it out! Ensure you have adequate time to order transcripts, complete your IELTS examination (for international applicants), request 2 academic references, etc.
• Be patient – Given that the potential supervisor is reviewing your work, understand that it may take at least ten business days to hear back.

Financing your studies

Funding packages.

Funding packages are awarded to students based on academic merit and they may consist of any or a combination of the following: scholarships, fellowships, external awards the student may bring with them, internal awards, research assistantships, teaching assistantships or graduate teaching fellowships.

The minimum guaranteed funding package for eligible full-time PhD students is $20,000 per year  (first 12 terms), with most students receiving additional funded opportunities.

It is important to note that you must apply for all major external and internal scholarships (where appropriate) for which you are eligible in order to qualify for the minimum guarantee. Any external awards received will be applied to funding offers (i.e., the external award is not on top of the original $20,000 minimum guarantee); however, funding offers overall for students with external awards are likely to be higher than those who do not receive them.

Normally, if students apply for and successfully obtain a Graduate Teaching Fellowship, Teaching and/or Research Assistantship the average funding for eligible PhD students is approximately $25,000 per year.

Exact funding package details are communicated to students normally in early summer.

For more information on sources of funding, please see the Funding page.  

Tuition, Fees and Costs

Information on tuition, fees and costs as well as the financial support offered to graduate students from the University and external agencies is provided by the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs:

• Tuition, Fees and Cost of Living
• Funding for Queen's Graduate Students  

There are a number of internal awards available to our PhD students including travel fellowships and awards. 

Teaching Assistant or Graduate Teaching Fellow

Graduate students who want to be considered for a teaching assistant or graduate teaching fellow position as part of their funding package are required to apply for one or more of the postings listed under  Work at Queen's .

Graduate Studies and Research Office  

Ph.D. in Educational Studies

Program overview:.

Faculty Faculty of Education Degree Type Graduate Studies Delivery In-person

About the Ph.D. in Educational Studies

Along with Acadia University and Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU), StFX is pleased to offer a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Studies. Launched in 2011, this inter-university program helps scholars develop the advanced knowledge and research skills that are vital in today’s changing educational landscape. Key components include an intensive on-site summer institute, interactive web-enabled courses, a comprehensive scholarly portfolio, and a doctoral dissertation. It is a full-time, 42 credit hour program.

Why pursue a Ph.D. in educational studies at StFX?

The Ph.D. in Educational Studies program is uniquely Nova Scotian, providing exciting opportunities to study with Atlantic Canada’s finest educational scholars and researchers. Drawing on the collective resources of this renowned scholarly community, the program cultivates graduates who are ideally positioned for leadership roles in academic and professional organizations. If you choose to make StFX your “home” university, you’ll benefit from our faculty’s expertise in the areas of educational administration, leadership, curriculum studies, and adult education.

Please see StFX Faculty of Education members and their research interests by clicking here .

Program at a glance

Education Ph.D. students obtain substantial knowledge of foundational and contemporary research, along with the theoretical and methodological expertise to develop their own research topic. In the first year of the program, students study full time, taking a rigorous series of courses and preparing a comprehensive scholarly portfolio. In subsequent years, candidates conduct research leading to the completion of their doctoral dissertation. Although they have five years to complete, normally students will complete their doctoral program in about four years.

How to apply

The total admission quota for the three institutions is 14 students per year.

Students are admitted on the basis of the availability of appropriate dissertation supervisors in relation to one of the six theme areas:

• Curriculum studies,
• Inclusive education,
• Lifelong learning,
• Educational foundations and leadership, or
• Psychological aspects of education.

Two StFX Departments, Curriculum and Leadership and the Department of Adult Education, admit up to a maximum of four (4) applicants per year from individuals with research interests that align with a potential supervisor in one of the above areas of study.

Admissions, program administration, and course delivery is governed collaboratively by all three institutions (StFX, Acadia, and MSVU). More information on admissions can be found here .

To learn more about potential study areas at StFX, please contact Jennifer Connors at @email .

Future Opportunities

• Curriculum Developer
• Education Policy Advocate

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Everything You Need To Know About Life In Antigonish

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StFX espi-kina’matno’kuom etek Mi’kma’ki, wejkwa’taqanik Mi’kmaq maqamikewmuew mna’q iknmuetu’tik. Nalikitquniejk na Mi’kmawey wisun wjit Antigonish teluek Aklasie’w-iktuk, ‘place where branches are torn off.’ 

StFX is located in Mi’kma’ki, the unceded ancestral territory of the Mi'kmaw people. The Mi'kmaw name for Antigonish is Nalikitquniejk, meaning ‘place where branches are torn off.’ 

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Canadian Association for the study of adult education

Association canadienne pour l’étude de l’éducation des adultes.

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2023 CONFERENCE

Thank you to all the presenters and contributors for the CASAE 2023 conference!

Adult education, including higher and distance education, prepares students to develop, implement, facilitate or administer programs and services for adults in the private and public sectors.

Research in the area includes:

• history of adult education in Canada
• theories of adult learning
• critical reflective practice
• evaluation studies
• instructor preparation
• the use of distance technologies
• teaching in higher education.

Requirements

Applicants to the MEd in Adult Education are required to have:

• a four-year undergraduate degree
• a grade point average of at least 3.0 (B, or its equivalent)
• the equivalent of two years of full-time practical experience working in relevant aspects of adult education

The MEd in Adult Education p rogram deadline dates are Dec. 1 (intended start date in May or September) and July 31 (intended start date in January).

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