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N-DL/0110/8/0003(MQA/PA15732)07/29

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey, fueled by your passion for education? Envision a path that not only amplifies your expertise but also empowers you to become a true visionary in the world of learning and development.

Why Study with Us

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) by research degree programme is your gateway to remarkable opportunities. It’s crafted for teachers across all educational levels – early childhood, primary, secondary, pre-university, and tertiary – who aspire to delve into the depths of your chosen field of study. This programme empowers you to research a topic independently and to write a thesis that is expected to contribute to new knowledge in the area of education.

Your journey doesn’t end there. You’re expected to bring academic insight to the table, showcasing your deep understanding of the subject matter, sharing your research findings in peer-reviewed and refereed publications, where your voice will shape the discourse in education.

Beyond academic achievement, this programme equips you with invaluable knowledge and skills in the realm of education which helps advance your career to new heights. Your future as an educational visionary begins here, where your passion meets endless possibilities. It’s time to make your mark in the world of education.

Our Advantage

Dedicated and Accomplished Supervisors

In your PhD journey, your success is our top priority. You will be guided by dedicated and accomplished supervisors who are not just mentors but partners in your research endeavours. They will work hand in hand with you to ensure your research is of the highest quality and that you receive the support and guidance you need to thrive in the realm of education.

Access to Dynamic Research Workshops and Hands-on Clinics

Education is a field that continuously evolves, and we are committed to equipping you with the tools to stay at the forefront. As part of our programme, you’ll have access to cutting-edge research workshops and practical clinics. These opportunities are carefully curated to keep you updated on the latest trends, research methodologies, and best practices in education. They will prepare you thoroughly to conduct in-depth research that contributes to new knowledge in the field.

Tailored Learning Choices for Your Needs

We understand that every PhD candidate is unique, and so are your learning needs. That’s why our programme offers tailored learning choices designed to meet your specific requirements. Whether you prefer a flexible schedule, specialised courses, or unique research opportunities, we’re here to provide you with a learning experience that’s aligned with your goals and aspirations

Doctor of Philosophy in Education Course Overview

Education Course Essentials Quick Facts

All the facts and figures about your study programme at a glance

Study Model

Online ODL

3 to 6 years – Full time
4 to 8 years – Part time
Online ODL

Doctor of Philosophy (Education)

Research and Thesis

Language

English

Accreditation & Recognition

Accreditation

Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)

MQA ACCREDITED
N-DL/0110/8/0003(MQA/PA 15732)
07/29

Fees & Scholarships*

Tuition Fees

RM25,200

Scholarships Available

 

*Terms & Conditions Apply

Study Duration

Study Start

Jan, May, Sep each year

Duration

Full time : 3 to 6 years
Part time : 4 to 8 years

Apply Now

Top Core Courses

Get a head start on your career with our Doctor of Philosophy in Education. Here are some core courses designed to equip you with the most relevant and up-to-date skill set:
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Your Learning Pathway: From Basics to Mastery

Online (ODL), Full Time
YEAR 1: BUILDING THE FOUNDATION Online (ODL), Full Time

Conceptualising your research and defending your proposal

YEAR 2: CONDUCTING YOUR RESEARCH Online (ODL), Full Time

Fieldwork, data collection, analysis and thesis writing

YEAR 3: REFINEMENT OF THESIS AND VIVA VOCE Online (ODL), Full Time

Pre-viva voce of findings and oral examination of thesis

Online (ODL), Part Time
YEAR 1: BUILDING THE FOUNDATION Online (ODL), Part Time

Conceptualising your research

YEAR 2: DEFENDING YOUR PROPOSAL Online (ODL), Part Time

Refining research proposal and preliminary data collection

YEAR 3: CONDUCTING YOUR RESEARCH Online (ODL), Part Time

Fieldwork, data collection, analysis, thesis writing

YEAR 4: REFINEMENT OF THESIS AND VIVA VOCE Online (ODL), Part Time

Pre-viva voce of findings and oral examination of thesis

Research Areas

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Study Content

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Admission

Entry Requirement
  1. A Master’s degree in education field (Level 7, MQF) as accepted by the HEP Senate; OR
  2. A Master’s degree (non-education) must undergo ***prerequisite courses; OR
  3. Other relevant equivalent qualifications recognised by Malaysian government as equivalent to the above requirements.

*** The pre-requisite MED courses that cover the Common Core Education Foundation are:

  1. EED525/03 Philosophical and Psychological Issues in Education
  2. EED527/03 Historical and Sociological Perspectives in Curriculum Development

English Competency Requirements for international students – Achieve (MUET) or any English competency test equivalent to a Low B1 Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), that is:

  • Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) Low B1; OR
  • Malaysian University English Test (MUET) of B3; OR
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) of 4; OR
  • IELTS of minimum 6.0 for Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) candidates; OR
  • Native speaker or graduated from an English-medium Higher Education Institution.

Note: The revised entry requirements for both ODL and Conventional Modes will take effect beginning with the September 2025 intake.

APEL Entry: Turning Experience into Credentials

Accreditation of Prior Experimental Learning (APEL) provides an opportunity to individuals with working experience but lack of formal academic, qualifications to pursue their tertiary studies. APEL involves the identification, documentation and assessment of prior experiential learning to determine the extent to which an individual has achieved the desired learning outcomes, for access to a programme of study.

Admission criteria: 35 years old Bachelor’s degree in relevant field/equivalent 5 years’ work experience Passed APEL assessment

EL Requirement for International Students

  • MUET Band 4, or
  • CEFR B2, or
  • IELTS 6.0, or
  • Is a Native speaker, or graduated from an English-medium Higher Education. Institution
Scholarships & Financial Aid

For details and inquiries on Scholarships & Financial Aid, you can find out more here.

Future Career Paths with a Ph.D.

Unlock a world of opportunities with a Ph.D. in Education. As a holder of this prestigious degree, you’ll find yourself at the helm of a world of possibilities in the field of education. Your career path may lead you to become:

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PhD in Education
5
University Lecturer
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Education Consultant
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Educational Researcher
5
Educational Policy Analyst
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Professionals in Public Service Education Departments
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Education Materials Writer
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Curriculum Developer
5
Enterprising Edu-preneur
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Corporate Trainer
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Senior Management of Educational Institutions, such as Principal and Director

Why WOU is The Best Online University of Choice

If You are Working While Studying

Your Studies are Felxible icon

Your Studies are Flexible
and 100% Online

Accredited Globally icon

Accredited & Globally
Recognised

You Gain icon

You Gain
Full Support

The Ideal Mix of Theory icon

The Ideal Mix of Theory
and Practice

Our Success Stories

Discover the impact we've had, straight from our campus family.

Ting Siew Khim

Master of Education

I am currently pursuing my Master of Education specializing in TESL as it’s relevant to my career where i operate a kindergarten and an after-school care center. Even though my workload is heavy, it never stops me from furthering my studies. I gained my confidence in pursuing my Master’s from the regional office staff. They have been very kind and helpful to me. Doing a Master’s with WOU was fun and not dreadful at all.The helpful lecturers and course coordinators were always willing to give me guidance and advice. I would like to thank WOU for making my dream come true.

Seow Yim Ho

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in English Studies

My name is Seow Yim Ho. I am an English language facilitator at Avenue Creative Learning. My journey at Wawasan Open University began in April 2016 and ended in December 2021.  It took me six years to complete the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Studies programme. Doing a language and linguistic programme is interesting, challenging and fulfilling. Getting an academic qualification in English Studies at WOU has enhanced my position as an English language teacher to impart my knowledge effectively and efficiently to my students.  Moreover, the knowledge gained is invaluable and the learning experience is priceless.  WOU has given every working adult an opportunity to further their studies, to realise their potential, to follow their academic dreams and to propel to a higher level.  Tenacity, faith, and hard work are the very essence of success.

Kang Tan Hooi Ling

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Psychology

Choosing WOU to pursue my degree in psychology is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. As a career woman, it was a major step in my life to go back to school. However, I felt that I had reached a plateau as an individual. Returning to academia exposed me to new insights, arming me with better solutions to problems in life and work. These new perspectives allow me to bring my career to greater heights. I urge you all to do the same!

View More...

Our Expert Supervisors:
Guiding You Every Step of the Way

Meet our distinguished postgraduate faculty members, each a luminary in their respective fields, poised to offer unparalleled guidance and mentorship to students aspiring to pursue PhD or professional Doctorate degrees.

Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Sean Tan Koon Tatt

Dean & Associate Professor

Dr-Mohd-Hezri-Marzaki

Dr. Mohd Hezri Marzaki

Deputy Dean

BG Edited

Professor Ts. Dr. Yap Eng Hwa

Professor

Prof. Dr. Sr. Abdul Rashid Abdul Aziz

Professor

View More...

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