Education (PhD)
Graduate Program Overview
Transform Education Systems. Conduct Interdisciplinary Research. Lead Sustainable Futures.
The PhD in Education (Educational Sustainability) at Nipissing University is a four-year, research-driven doctoral program designed for experienced professionals seeking to lead educational innovation across disciplines such as health, social work, leadership, and social justice. Combining online coursework with two intensive summer residencies, the program equips scholars to develop sustainable educational practices grounded in global, ecological, and cultural awareness.
Program Highlights
As a candidate in this program, you will:
- Complete three core doctoral courses during your summer residency sessions
- Take three elective courses drawn from the MEd and PhD course listings, delivered online
- Pass a comprehensive exam comprising two qualifying papers on educational theory and methodology
- Conduct and defend an original dissertation (quantitative, qualitative, or arts-informed) under faculty supervision
- Be supported by dedicated graduate spaces, including seminar rooms, a graduate student lounge, and the Graduate Student Centre
Degree Requirements
Students must complete the following degree requirements:
- Three core courses during a summer residence program over two years (four weeks each July) at Nipissing University in North Bay.
- Three elective courses from the current MEd/PhD course listings (courses are online).
- A comprehensive examination (two qualifying papers on theory and methodology).
- A doctoral dissertation (may contain quantitative, qualitative, and arts-informed elements).
Graduate Student Funding
Financial Aid, Scholarships, Bursaries & Awards
Funding is available to graduate students from both internal and external sources. Internal funding includes teaching/research assistantships, faculty research grants, and Nipissing Graduate Scholarships.
Meet our Faculty
Discover where studying history can take you
Our History faculty is small, supportive, and committed to student success. We encourage students to connect with professors through office hours, collaborate on ideas, and become active members of our academic community. Our faculty are accomplished scholars and dedicated teachers who bring their expertise directly into the classroom.
Hillary Earl
One example is Professor Hilary Earl, an internationally recognized scholar of the Holocaust, genocide, and war crimes trials. Her award-winning research explores state violence, perpetrator testimony, and the pursuit of justice after mass atrocities. As the author of Murder on the Beach: A Holocaust Atrocity Story and producer of the documentary Šķēde – Murder on the Beach, Professor Earl brings cutting-edge research and real-world impact into her teaching.
Resources
Program Related
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission, students must have a four-year undergraduate degree or equivalent as recognized by Nipissing University in an appropriate discipline, with a minimum B standing.
To find specific requirements details, use the buttons below
Future Careers
Graduates emerge as leaders with expertise in educational theory, research, and sustainable practice suited to roles such as:
- University faculty or scholarly researcher
- Policy advisor or strategist in education, social services, or public administration
- Educational consultant or program evaluator in nonprofit or governmental sectors
- Senior practitioner-scholar in fields intersecting with health, social justice, sustainability, and leadership
The depth of the PhD program positions alumni for influence in academe and public-sector change initiatives.
Real People, Real Impact
This program gave me the space to explore meaningful research while being supported by faculty who truly care about your work and your impact. It shaped me into a more thoughtful scholar and leader.
Amanda J.
Class of 2024
From the start, I felt part of a strong academic community. The program challenged me to think critically, conduct impactful research, and contribute to change in education.
Daniel K.
Class of 2022
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Notes:
- International students only eligible if not studying in Canada (except for Summer Residency periods) as it will not meet Study Permit requirements.
- The program is mainly online, however, students are required to attend two summer residencies in North Bay.
Disclaimer:
While every effort is made to ensure accuracy on this site, in the event of a discrepancy, Nipissing’s Academic Calendar is the official reference.