The duration of full-time study is 3 to 6 years, part time is 4-8 years. Students are required to attend all prescribed modules, including the Research Methodology, Research Proposal & Seminar, Statistics and Data Analysis, Principles of Education (candidates without education major), and pass the Thesis Proposal Defense. Students are also required to attend and participate in forums/international conferences. PowerPoint presentations or full text publication are accepted.

The award of an PhD Ed requires the submission of a thesis examination and a viva voce (oral examination) by a panel including three examiners, two of whom is an external appointee. The PhD Ed thesis must show a comprehensive grasp of the relevant literature, the methodologies and the issues involved in a specific area of study.

This programme is designed for students, teachers, lecturers, education administrators and all who are interested in educational studies to further their knowledge and advance their career prospects.

Graduates of this programme may choose to become:

1. Professionals who are competent researchers or practitioners in education and related areas of pursuit.
2. Educational advisors or consultants.
3. Academic staff in universities, research institutes, schools and educational related organizations.
4. Managerial staff in business, research work for charitable agencies and other education related organizations.
5. Curriculum directors, principals, administrators, and educators in nursery, preschool, primary, secondary schools, international and private schools.