PhD in Education in Canada at Acadia University

Program Overview for PhD in Education in Canada:

A unique Nova Scotia program provides exciting Ph.D. research opportunities for the best educators and researchers in Atlantic Canada. Nova Scotia's three universities have come together to offer a world-class doctoral program that draws on the collective resources of the renowned academic community. 

The Nova Scotia Doctoral Program in Educational Research helps talented scholars develop a wealth of advanced research knowledge and skills, which are very important in today's rapidly evolving world. This innovative and cutting-edge program includes: 

• an on-site intensive summer university; 
• a series of interactive online courses;
• comprehensive academic files;
• doctoral dissertations.

The program graduates are well prepared for leadership roles in a variety of academic and professional organizations.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Research (Ph.D.) program is jointly offered by three respected Nova Scotia universities: the University of Arcadia (Wolfville, Nova Scotia); Mount Saint Vincent University (Halifax), Nova Scotia); and the University of St. Francis Xavier (Antigonish, Nova Scotia). Working in one of six supported subject areas, program students complete 2.5 credits of courses, academic portfolios, and doctoral dissertations.

Generally, students complete the course in 4 to 6 years of study. Utilizing several state-of-the-art courses delivery models, the Nova Scotia Interuniversity Doctoral Program provides an exciting and high-quality doctoral learning experience for advanced status students.

Field of Study:

The doctoral program supports research in six interrelated subject areas (research areas) that reflect the ongoing research priorities of participating university professors. All these issues are becoming more and more important in education. Because of our rapid development as a knowledge society, we are ready for more in-depth study and research: 

• Curriculum Research 
• Educational Foundation and Leadership
• Inclusive Education
• Lifelong Learning
• Literature
• The Psychological Aspects of Education 

As part of the admissions process, students determine one or more of these interrelated topics as their expected focus of study.

The eligibility for PhD in Education in Canada for both domestic and international student is:

Candidates interested in applying to the Nova Scotia Ph.D. Program in Educational Studies should meet the following admission requirements:

• Possess a Masters degree from a recognized university in education or in a related field of study;
• Normally, have completed a graduate thesis in a field related to their doctoral studies. Those applicants who have not completed a thesis are required to submit evidence of their ability to undertake research in education through the completion of a qualifying research paper of sufficient depth and scope to reflect their research competence;
• A minimum of A- or 80% average in his or her highest degree;
• A clearly conceptualized idea of an area of research or a research topic the applicant wishes to investigate in the doctoral program.
• Scholarly preparation to conduct research, normally including graduate-level courses in quantitative and/or qualitative research methods and design.
• English language proficiency (IELTS 7.5-9.0 with no score less than 7.0 on any band)

• A qualifying research paper if the applicant has not completed a graduate thesis;
• Three letters of reference, normally including two academic and one professional;
• A recent curriculum vitae indicating current initiatives in education and any academic, scholarly work to date;
• A letter of intent indicating a proposed area of study from among the six interrelated themes of educational studies;
• An interview with a selection committee that is a subcommittee of the IDAC (if deemed necessary).
• Proof of English language proficiency (see English Language Proficiency Requirements)

Note: Qualified applicants will only be admitted if a suitable supervisor and program can be provided

These are the test eligibilities for the PhD in Education to qualify.

The international student tuition fees and costs for PhD in Education in Canada.

The Nova Scotia Educational Research Doctorate Program does not provide admission scholarships or funding for students entering the program. After entering the program, students can purchase student research grants through their institutions. Depending on the alma mater, students may also be eligible for additional annual scholarships. 

Domestic colleges and universities often provide doctoral students with opportunities to teach undergraduate and graduate courses. Students in the first year may sign a course teaching contract during their year of residence. 

Students are strongly encouraged to apply for external scholarships and funds to support their studies. The students of the Ph.D. program received doctoral scholarships as research consultants in the social sciences and humanities (2 students received SSHRC scholarships in 2013).