PhD / Doctorate Curriculum & Instruction Full Time

Doctor of Education

at Griffith University · Brisbane, Queensland

CRICOS course code

082410C

CRICOS provider code

00233E

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

3 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$109,500 total

Per year

A$36,500/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Doctor of Education (EdD) at Griffith University is designed for education professionals looking to contribute original research to curriculum and instruction practice. Over three years of full-time study, candidates undertake a substantial research project with direct implications for real-world educational contexts. The EdD focuses on developing advanced research skills through a combination of taught units and a major thesis, addressing pressing questions in curriculum design, pedagogy, education policy, or assessment.

The course structure typically includes a series of core research methodology units in the initial stage, followed by proposal development, ethics approval, and independent research. Students complete a thesis under the guidance of academic supervisors with expertise in their chosen field. Many choose projects with strong links to schools, educational organisations, or government initiatives, reflecting the needs and priorities of Australian education. The degree requires regular milestones, including literature reviews and public presentations of research progress.

This doctorate is suited to experienced educators, school leaders, policy advisors, and curriculum specialists aiming to influence practice and policy. You’ll gain expertise in critical thinking, research design, data analysis, and academic writing, with opportunities to engage with Griffith’s network of education partners. Work-integrated components are shaped by your existing professional experiences and the practical orientation of your research, which may involve placements, fieldwork, or collaborative research projects in Brisbane and across Queensland.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency at a high level, in line with the standards for education research and professional engagement. Be sure to check the official Griffith University website for full admission requirements and application details. Doctoral candidates in Australia can work up to 48 hours per fortnight and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) upon graduation.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Senior leadership roles in schools and school systems
Education policy advisor for government or NGOs
Curriculum development specialist
Academic researcher or lecturer in Australian universities
Consultant in professional development or educational assessment
Roles in education authorities and private education providers

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Doctor of Education at Griffith University?

It typically takes 3 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$109,500 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Senior leadership roles in schools and school systemsEducation policy advisor for government or NGOsCurriculum development specialistAcademic researcher or lecturer in Australian universitiesConsultant in professional development or educational assessmentRoles in education author...

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