The Doctoral Programme is a large, dynamic and wide-ranging programme in the School of Education.

This programme aims to graduate independent researchers in the fields of Social Justice Education, Teacher Development Studies, Curriculum, Education Leadership, Management and Policy, Educational Psychology, Gender Studies, Adult Education and Higher Education across all learning areas and uses a wide range of research methodologies.  Graduates must be able to generate new and original knowledge at the highest level by conducting original research that addresses complex context-based issues, under the guidance of the research supervisor. A key aspect of the doctorate is that the research undertaken during the degree, in the form of a thesis or as published journal articles, must be independently produced, demonstrate critical thinking and assessment; and must contain an original contribution to new knowledge in the field of education. The research project will culminate in the production of a research report in the form of a thesis in the traditional format or by publication. The programme aims to provide graduates with specialised knowledge and competence in relevant discipline areas. The programme is offered at both the Edgewood and Pietermaritzburg campuses of the University.

UKZN online applications are available to all postgraduate (new and returning) applicants including international and SADC (undergrad and postgrad) applicants.

The system is user-friendly. In order for the application to be finalised and processed, the uploading of documents is required. It is, therefore, recommended that these documents are electronically accessible for uploading at the time of application. Once the application is complete, a student number is immediately issued with details of the application fee payable as well as banking details and a reference number to use when making payment.

Each prospective candidate must submit the following documents:

1. A formal letter of intention to read for a PhD in 2023 (with all relevant contact details). Visit our School website to view our Academic Profiles: https://soe.ukzn.ac.za/schoolleadershipandstaff/academic-staff/  (click here) Indicate in your letter which of the School of Education Academic staff members you have consulted regarding your intended research and suggest whom you would like to work with as the promoter of your study. Alternatively indicate what kind of expertise you would consider appropriate to support your study and the School will recommend a possible promoter.
2. A certified copy of your identity document/passport and matric certificate (Certified within the last 3 months)
3. Certified copies of your previous qualification certificates and academic transcripts as well as any other relevant documentation (Certified within the last 3 months)
4. If any of your previous qualification(s) were obtained at universities outside of South Africa, please also include the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA) certificate.
5. A 5 page description of the research that you intend to pursue for the PhD studies (Concept note)
6. A photo-copy of your Masters abstract from your research dissertation
7. A brief Curriculum Vitae which should include details of your current work situation and any research related activities including publications (e.g. articles, reports) that you may have (co)authored
8. The URL link for online applications is available on our UKZN web page. https://erpweb.ukzn.ac.za/pls/ukznint/gen.gw1pkg.gw1startup?x_processcode=UKZN_REQUEST or (click here).