Structured PhD in Learning Sciences

Course Overview

Information and communications technologies (ICTs) create new potential to enhance learning, education and human development through adaptive, blended and personalised learning environments.  In the last twenty years, innovations in computer technology enable us to design educational experiences that are potentially more engaging and effective. NUI Galway’s Structured Ph.D. in the Learning Sciences is the first denominated and structured doctoral programme of its kind in Europe. The aim of the programme is to educate highly-skilled graduates who can draw on a range of research and development skills to conceptualise, design, deploy and evaluate information and communications technologies (ICTs) to enhance learning in different educational contexts and settings. 

Students are selected by a Course Committee comprising the course Directors, prospective research supervisor and Head of School of Psychology or Education. Entrants are expected to have no less than an upper second class honours degree in education, psychology or a discipline related to educational technologies (e.g. information technology, computer science, business information systems). If students do not have this basic qualification they must have demonstrated high ability by some other means (e.g. through publications or achievement in a higher degree).