Education - Research

The Structured PhD in Education is a research degree that supports students in engaging in research at the highest academic level. Students work with their supervisors to develop a substantive piece of research that makes an original contribution to knowledge in the field and tradition of educational research.



The purpose of PhD study is to develop a work of independent and original research. To support this, and ensure that students are part of a wider community of knowledge exchange, research, scholarship and dialogue, Maynooth University research degrees are Structured. PhD students must register for a minimum of 30 credits in pass/fail modules. 15 Credits will be in subject specific modules (2 of which are mandatory in the first year) and 15 credits will be in generic/transferable skills modules. These are selected in close consultation with the student’s supervisor. Students will write a thesis of approximately 90,000-100,000 words.

Minimum 2.1 degree (BA or MA/M.Ed ) or international equivalent in Education or a cognate area, and a proposal for original research that is accepted by the Department. Students undertake 30 credits of modules that support their research. Generally, students without a Masters undertake 60 credits of modules. Studies can be undertaken on a part-time or full-time basis, and credit requirements are the same for both pathways.



IELTS: 6.5 minimum overall score

TOEFL (Paper based test): 585

TOEFL (Internet based test): 95

PTE (Pearson): 62



Maynooth Universitys TOEFL code is 8850

3-4 years Full-time, 5-6 years Part-time

In general, there are two levels of fees payable. EU students from EU countries including Ireland pay a subsidised level of fees for both taught courses and research programmes. Tuition fees for students from outside the EU are not subsidised and are thus somewhat higher than for EU students.

Commences September annually (or other agreed time)

Postgraduate students in education come from a range of backgrounds and have a wide range of interests. Some students wish to develop their professional practice and take on leadership roles, others wish to take on other professional responsibilities or engage in policy formation in the national or international context. Holding a PhD qualifies one to teach at university level and to carry out advanced research.

Students are free to take up research in any area of educational research that interests them. However, a member of staff with relevant expertise must be available to supervise the project. Students may find it helpful to reflect on a research question and locate a provisional area for research prior to contacting the Course Coordinator. Inter-disciplinary PhDs are also welcomed and cross-departmental co-supervisory arrangements can be negotiated.


The Department of Education at Maynooth University is an exciting place in which to do postgraduate research. We have an excellent international profile and we are part of a wider research community that engages in research right across the educational continuum. Our staff and students also engage in inter-disciplinary and inter-institutional research. We have a large postgraduate research community, and the diversity of approaches and interests and our pluralistic and collaborative ethos makes it a welcoming and dynamic space for students. The atmosphere is one of intellectual vibrancy and creativity, grounded in excellent research. You can learn more about staff's interests here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/education/our-people and about our postgraduate community here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/education/our-research-students