DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN EDUCATION

Programme Overview

UNIRAZAK’s Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) programme is designed for educators, researchers, and innovators who are ready to make a lasting impact on the field of education. This programme equips you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become an independent researcher and thought leader, capable of generating innovative ideas, developing strong theoretical frameworks, and applying rigorous methodologies to address real-world educational challenges.

As a PhD student, you will have the opportunity to participate in national and international research initiatives, contribute to high-quality publications, and engage with professional learning communities that expand your network and expertise. Our programme also embraces cutting-edge digital tools and virtual collaboration platforms, enabling you to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and build essential technology skills while conducting meaningful research.

Whether your goal is to advance knowledge, influence educational policy, or transform teaching and learning practices, UNIRAZAK’s PhD in Education provides the foundation and support to help you turn your vision into real-world impact.

Duration of Study
Full Time: 3 years (minimum), 6 years (maximum)
Part Time: 4 years (minimum), 9 years (maximum)

Taught Courses

• Research Methodology
• Research Seminar
• Qualitative Research Methods

Project

• PhD Proposal
• PhD Thesis

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the PhD in Education programme are prepared for a wide range of impactful careers where they can shape the future of learning, research, and policy. Potential roles include:

Research Methodologists at leading research agencies designing and leading innovative studies that influence educational practice and policy.

University Lecturers and Professors, shaping the next generation of educators and contributing to cutting-edge academic research.

Subject Matter Experts across all educational levels, providing expertise that drives curriculum development, instructional innovation, and professional training.

Researchers at governmental, non-profit, or private organisations, exploring critical issues in education and delivering evidence-based solutions.

Policy Advisors guide educational strategies, reforms, and initiatives that impact learners, educators, and communities on a national or international scale.

This PhD equips you with the skills, credibility, and vision to take on leadership roles that make a real difference in education, wherever your passion for research and learning may lead.

Entry Requirements

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL & LOCAL):

A master's degree from Universiti Tun Abdul Razak or its equivalent from an institution of higher learning

recognised by the Malaysian Government or any other equivalent qualification recognised by the University Senate.

• There shall be no direct entry from bachelor's degree level to doctoral degree level.

• Candidates with bachelor's degree qualifications may apply to convert their candidacy to the doctoral degree

programmes after a year's enrollment in a master's degree subject to:

- having shown competency and capability in conducting research at doctoral degree level;

- rigorous internal assessment by the University;

- approval by the University Senate

INTERNATIONAL 

All applicants are required to attain any of the following before they are accepted for admission into the programme:

• International Language Testing System (IELTS) with a minimum score of 5.0; or

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) (internet based ) with a minimum score of 34; or

• Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) with a minimum score of 160; or

• Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a minimum score of 180; or

• Pearson Test of English, Academic (PTE Academic) with a minimum score of 36; or

• Malaysian University English Test (MUET) Band 3.

Students from countries that use English as their first language or whose academic qualifications from institutions that use English as the intermediate language are exempted from the requirements stated above.

English Language Requirement:

• IELTS minimum band 5

• TOEFL/IELTS scores are valid for two (2) years from the date of award.

• A conditional offer may be issued to international students who have not yet met the English requirement; the student must achieve the required English proficiency within 12 months of enrolment. 

STUDENT PASS / VISA REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS)

All international students who plan to study full-time in Malaysia are required to obtain a Student Pass (Student Visa) before starting their studies.

• You must receive an official Offer Letter from the university before applying for a student pass

• The university will submit your Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) on your behalf

• A Visa Approval Letter (VAL / eVAL) is required before travelling to Malaysia

• Studying on a tourist or social visit visa is not permitted

• Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months from your intended intake date

• Visa processing time depends on EMGS and Malaysian Immigration approval

• After arriving in Malaysia, all students must complete a medical check-up at an EMGS-registered clinic

• Your Student Pass will be issued only after medical clearance and document verification

• Continuing students must renew their Student Pass before it expires

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR STUDENT PASS APPLICATION

The following documents are commonly required for all international students:

• Valid passport (clear scanned copy of all pages, including blank pages)

• Passport-size photograph with a white background

• Official Offer Letter from the university

• Academic certificates and transcripts related to your programme

• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS / TOEFL or equivalent), if required

• Proof of acceptance or tuition fee payment (if requested by the university)

• Student Pass / Visa processing fee as determined by EMGS

• Completed EMGS Health Declaration Form (if applicable)

Please note: All documents not originally in English must be submitted together with certified English translations.

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS (IF APPLICABLE)

Some students may be asked to provide extra documents depending on their situation:

• Release Letter and Visa Cancellation Letter (for students transferring from another institution in Malaysia)

• School Leaving Certificate (for foundation or diploma applicants)

• Sponsorship or Scholarship Letter (if your studies are funded)

• Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses

• Statutory Declaration (if there are name differences across documents)

• Resume or Character Reference Letter (commonly required for applicants above 23 years old)

• Police Clearance Certificate (if requested by EMGS or embassy authorities)

• Copy of previous Malaysian visa or Resident Pass (if applicable)

AFTER ARRIVING IN MALAYSIA

Once you arrive in Malaysia, you will need to:

• Complete a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic

• Submit your passport for Student Pass endorsement

• Receive a temporary Special Pass (if applicable) while your Student Pass is being processed

• Collect your Student Pass and complete university registration

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Student Pass requirements are set by Malaysian Immigration and EMGS and may vary by nationality
• The university’s International Office will guide you through each step of the process
• Students are strongly advised to prepare documents at least 2–3 months before intake
• Requirements may change, so always follow the latest instructions provided by the university