Doctorate in Philosophy in Education (cross-departmental)

The Departments of Curriculum Studies, Educational Foundations, and Educational Psychology and Special Education support doctoral studies through the cross-departmental Ph.D. in Education.

The cross-departmental Ph.D. is a thesis-based research degree and graduates from this program may have goals of obtaining academic positions at other institutions and conducting education research for government, school divisions, First Nations and other research organizations. The program delivery is intended to be flexible with decisions on program delivery and specific program requirements decided by the student’s advisory committee. Students will be trained in educational research and have support from an advisory committee whose regular members draw expertise from Curriculum Studies (curriculum innovation, early childhood education, English as an additional language, and educational technology and design), Educational Foundations (social and ecological justice education, Indigenous Education), Educational Psychology and Special Education (including applied measurement and program evaluation, special education, and school-based assessment).

The cross-departmental Ph.D. program consists of a minimum of 15 credit units (nine required credit units focused on research methodology, plus six required credit units that support the student’s specific area of research). Students may also take up to six credit units of coursework through another Western Canadian university after a term of study, if these courses are approved as part of their official program of studies.

Master of Education (M.Ed.) or equivalent from a recognized college or university.

A cumulative weighted average of at least 70% (USask grade system equivalent) in the Master's degree.

Demonstrated ability for independent thought, advanced study, and research.

English language proficiency requirements

• IELTS - Fully qualified: Overall score of 6.5 with no score below 6.0 in each area
• TOEFL iBT - Fully qualified: Overall score of 86 with minimum scores of 19 in each area
• Cambridge C1 Advanced - Fully qualified: Overall score of 176
• Duolingo English Test (DET) - Overall score of 115, with minimum individual scores of 95 in each area
• PTE Academic - Fully qualified: Overall score of 63 with minimum scores of 59 in each area
• CAEL - Minimum score of 70%, with minimum individual scores of 60

One admission intake is done per year for the cross-departmental Ph.D. in Education. Applicants must apply by November 30th to be considered. The program start date is in September.