The PhD in Education (by research) offered by the University of Geomatika Malaysia (UGM) is a fully research-based doctoral programme designed for educators, academic scholars, institutional leaders, and professionals seeking to advance expertise in educational theory, policy, and practice. Accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and recognised by the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) of Thailand, the qualification is also widely recognised internationally, enabling graduates to pursue global academic, professional, and research careers.
Designed for completion within 24–36 months, the programme emphasises independent research, advanced scholarly inquiry, and theoretical contribution to contemporary educational challenges. Candidates undertake two audited modules—
• Doctoral Research Methodology
• Doctoral Academic Writing
—followed by the development and completion of a doctoral thesis under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors.
Throughout the candidature, learners receive one-to-one supervision from international faculty members and engage in doctoral colloquia, research seminars, educational leadership forums, and publication workshops. These activities strengthen methodological capability, academic writing proficiency, and the ability to disseminate high-impact educational research.
UGM supports a wide range of research fields in education, allowing candidates to align their doctoral inquiry with current issues, national education priorities, and global trends. Areas of specialisation include:
Educational Leadership and Administration
Curriculum Design and Development
Teaching, Learning, and Pedagogy
Instructional Technology and Digital Learning
Education Policy and Reform
Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Education
Early Childhood, Primary, and Secondary Education Studies
Higher Education Management and Governance
Educational Psychology and Learner Development
Inclusive Education and Special Needs
Assessment, Measurement, and Evaluation
Comparative and International Education
Teacher Professional Development
Community Education and Lifelong Learning
TVET Development and Workforce Education
This doctoral program is ideal for:
School leaders, administrators, and policymakers seeking to strengthen leadership and decision-making through evidence-based research
Educators and lecturers aiming to advance their academic careers and research portfolios
Education consultants and specialists involved in curriculum innovation, quality assurance, or system-wide reform
Researchers addressing key challenges in teaching, learning, digital transformation, and educational equity
Graduates will produce a substantial doctoral thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field of education, develop advanced analytical and research capabilities, and be well-positioned for careers in academia, educational leadership, consultancy, policy development, or senior roles in national and international education systems.
Doctoral Research Methodology
Doctoral Academic Writing
Doctoral Thesis
Flexible Research Engagement:
The PhD (By Research) offers a flexible study approach that allows candidates to engage in supervisory meetings, seminars, and research activities either onsite or online. Learners may choose the mode that best supports their research progress and personal schedule.
Research-Driven Learning Experience:
The program emphasises independent inquiry and scholarly development. Candidates complete two audited modules—Doctoral Research Methodology and Doctoral Academic Writing—followed by a full doctoral thesis. Assessment is entirely research-based, with no written examinations.
Academic Community & Scholarly Networking:
Doctoral candidates participate in academic colloquia, doctoral seminars, and collaborative research discussions with peers and faculty members from Malaysia, Thailand, and the international academic community. These platforms support knowledge sharing, critical dialogue, and interdisciplinary research engagement.
Publication & Research Support:
Throughout the study period, learners receive structured training on research publication, conference presentation, and academic writing. Supervisors and research mentors guide candidates to build a strong scholarly profile aligned with global doctoral standards.
Language Support:
The program is delivered in English, with academic support and advisory discussions available in Thai when needed, ensuring accessibility for candidates conducting international research while maintaining clarity and academic rigor.
i. A Master’s degree (Level 7, MQF) as accepted by the HEP’s Senate; OR
ii. Other qualifications equivalent to a Master’s degree (Level 7, MQF) as accepted by the HEP Senate; OR
iii. Candidates without a related qualification in the field/s or working experience in the relevant fields must undergo prerequisite courses** determined by the HEP.
Notes:
There shall be no direct entry from Bachelor’s Degree level to PhD level. Candidates with bachelors masters degree who are registered for programmes with at least CGPA of 3.67 at Bachelor’s Degree level may apply to convert their candidacy to the PhD programmes within one (1) year after master’s degree registration, subject to:
a) Having shown competency and capability in conducting research at PhD level.
b) Rigorous internal evaluation by HEP.
c) Approval by the HEP’s Senate.
Prerequisite courses**
1. Educational Psychology course
2. Curriculum course
Pre-requisite courses may be taken at Universiti Geomatika Malaysia or through ADVEX, Micro-Credential, MOOC, Short Course, or CPD platforms such as Coursera, OpenLearning, and others. Candidates must provide evidence and pass a rigorous internal assessment.
Tuition and Assessment Fee: 440,000 THB
Scholarship up-to 125,000 THB available, for more information and eligibility please contact us at LINE @advex
International Learners Administration Fee : 20,000 THB