​​​PhD in Education​

The acute educational problems facing Pakistan and other developing countries need researchers who can ask critical questions, design innovative methods of inquiry and generate usable knowledge for scholars, education practitioners and policymakers. Our PhD in Education is designed for professionals who aspire to play such a role in improving the provision and quality of education.

The programme deepens students' understanding of educational problems and research needs in the developing world preparing them for leadership roles​. It enables students to conduct research to inform educational policies and practices in the developing world.

To learn more about this programme, download our prospectus here​.​

Learn more about Financial Assistance at AKU!​

​It is a completely merit driven programme. Students are required to go through a rigorous admission process. Scholarships including tuition fee waiver and a monthly stipend are given to the best candidates.

Designed in collaboration with experts from the University of Toronto, Canada and Oxford University, UK, the programme draws upon the quality, depth and breadth of the IED’s research and development work. 

IED has an exceptional team of faculty with rich experience in teaching, research and development work to guide and mentor the students in their research journey. Many of our faculty members have served as consultants for various national and international development organisations, advised government and civil society institutions as part of their think tanks and have lead several key educational research projects as principal investigators. 

Students are engaged in critical discussions and dialogue with national and international scholars, policymakers and other stakeholders in education. They get to organise and participate in national and international conference and seminars at the University and IED to develop their research dissemination and networking skills. 

By participating in a wide range of research assistance-ship and internship opportunities at IED and other organisations, students are able to apply and refine their research skills.​​​

​Graduates of this programme are working as lead researchers, policy and academic advisors,  and faculty and leaders of higher education institutions.​​

​Our​ PhD in Education degree is accredited by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan.​


Year 1

Core courses (3 credit each) 

Advanced Quantitative Methods in Educational Research 

This course equips PhD students with advanced skills in quantitative research and data analysis. It explores the nature of quantitative inquiry, approaches, and theoretical foundations while contextualizing research at national and international levels.  

Advanced Qualitative Methods in Educational Research 

This enhances skills in qualitative research to address educational challenges. Participants will explore theoretical foundations, master data collection and analysis methods, engage in diverse presentation techniques, and understand ethical considerations throughout the research process.  

International and Comparative Education 

The International and Comparative Education course introduces participants to the study of education as a global issue, emphasizing the importance of an international perspective in the context of globalization and inequalities. Participants will explore key concepts such as globalization, policy borrowing, postcolonialism, and social justice, while gaining insight into comparative methods and intercultural considerations in research.  

Studies in Educational Leadership 

This course provides students with in-depth insights into leadership in education, connecting it to curriculum, teaching, learning, research, policymaking, and educational governance. It encourages critical reflection on leadership theories and models and engages participants with issues affecting access, quality, and policy in education. 

Elective Courses* (3 credit each) 

(Students will have to choose two elective courses from the list below) 

​Policy Studies for Education 

This course focuses on the policy processes and politics that influence educational policy decisions, examining the implications of these policies at various levels (global, national, and local). Designed for educational governance professionals, it introduces the concept of governing through policy and emphasizes evidence-based decision-making.  

Gender in Education 

This course aims to raise awareness of gender issues in education and equip CPs with the skills to address them in local classrooms and schools. The course covers two main themes: understanding gender theory and perspectives in educational policies and practice, and developing skills for observing, analysing, planning, implementing, and evaluating gender-based interventions. 

Early Childhood Education and Development 

The Early Childhood Education and Development (ECED) elective course focuses on both theory and practice, helping course participants develop an understanding of child development and effective teaching practices. Key outcomes include an improved understanding of child development, curriculum and assessment for early years, subject content knowledge, active learning techniques, and reflective practice. 

Educational Assessment & Measurement 

The Educational Assessment and Measurement elective course aims to deepen CPs' understanding of educational assessment theories and practices. It focuses on large-scale testing, addressing issues such as validity, reliability, and test bias. By the end, CPs will be able to critically analyse educational assessment systems, evaluate measurement credibility, and design, collect, and interpret assessment data effectively. 

Teaching and Learning with Technology 

The course aims to equip students with the skills and strategies necessary for integrating ICT into teaching, learning, assessment, and management, particularly in developing countries. Students will explore various models and approaches to ICT use in classrooms, critique relevant policies and practices, and identify barriers to ICT implementation. 

Education and Development: Theory and Practice  

This course introduces key concepts and theories linking education and development, offering participants a critical lens to examine historical and contemporary perspectives. It explores the intersection of culture, politics, and economics with education, encouraging the development of frameworks to analyse education systems and assess their status in developing countries. 

​Year 2

  • Comprehensive examination
  • Proposal development and defence
  • Two research seminars

Year 3 and Year 4

  • ​​Fieldwork and data analysis with initial writing​​
  • Writing thesis
  • Thesis submission for examination
  • Defence of thesis/viva voce​​

​Life beyond AKU-IED​​

Here's what our alumni have to say about their experience of being developed as teachers, researchers and leaders in the area of education.

"Along with academic guidance and support, what I found most empowering was that I grew and transformed professionally despite my personal challenges. The high quality, equitable and humane learning environment created by the leadership and faculty is what makes the IED a unique place for study."​


Dr Nasima Zainulabidin, Class of '18​ ​


"The PhD experience at IED immensely strengthened my profile as a researcher. Building on this experience, I have worked as a lead researcher and a consultant for different institutions in Afghanistan. Currently, I am an Assistant Professor at Kardan University, Kabul."

Hajee Parveen Roy, Class of ‘12


"Following his PhD at IED,  Dr Haji Karim stepped into higher education to teach as an Assistant Professor at the University of Baltistan."

Dr Haji Karim​​ Khan, Class of '09


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Admissions

Find out ​about eligibility criteria, English language requirements,
fee structure details, scholarships and all forms of financial assistance available.​