Ph.D. Education Admission 2025, Syllabus, Eligibility, Subjects, Colleges, Careers

• Updated on  Aug 07, 2025, by Puja Jena

Ph.D. Education is the highest level of educational achievement in the field, typically lasting between 3 and 6 years. It is a demanding doctoral degree program that attracts individuals who wish to study educational psychology or technology, including educational theory, policy, leadership, course study, or expertise. Candidates get an understanding and research skills of scholars through a combination of courses, research design, and writing a dissertation to apply to real-world issues in education.

 

One must be considered for admission to a PhD. In education, the applicants should have a master's degree (M.Ed., M.A., in education, or related) with a minimum of 55% marks from a recognized university. It is also necessary for most university applicants they have UGC NET, CSIR NET, or a University-level Ph.D. After the interview and presentation of the entrance examination, the research proposal.

 

Ph.D. Education in India is quite diverse, varying between INR 50,000 and INR 3,00,000 for the entire course, depending on the basis that the university is government or private. Ph.D. Education has Pondicherry University, Srinath University, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University Delhi, Indian Institute of Teacher Education, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Dr Vishwanath Karad, MIT World Peace University.

 

Ph.D. Education: They are comprehensive and impressive. Students become professors in universities, policy researchers, course developers, educational advisors, or education administrators. The initial salary differs from the INR 6–10 LPA, in which professionals receive much more in positions of leadership or policy-making roles.

 

Table of Contents

  1. Ph.D. Education Key Highlights
  2. What is a Ph.D. Education?
  3. Why Study Ph.D. Education?
  4. Who should study Ph.D. Education?
  5. Ph.D Education Eligibility Criteria
  6. Ph.D. Education Entrance Exams 2025
  7. Ph.D. Education Colleges
  8. Ph.D. Education Admission Process 2025
  9. Ph.D. Education Syllabus
  10. Ph.D. Education vs. Ed.D. Doctor of Education
  11. Ph.D. Education Job Opportunities in India
  12. Ph.D. Education FAQs

 

Ph.D. Education Key Highlights

Explore the key highlights of the Ph.D in Education course in India:

Particulars

Details

Course Name

Ph.D. in Education

Course Level

Doctoral

Duration

3–6 years

Course Type

Full-Time / Part-Time

Admission Process

Entrance-Based (UGC NET, CSIR NET, University Entrance) + Interview + Research Proposal

Eligibility Criteria

Master’s in Education or relevant field with a minimum of 55% marks

Course Fees

INR 50,000 – 3,00,000 (total)

Subjects

Research Methodology, Educational Psychology, Curriculum Development, Educational Technology, Advanced Statistics in Education, Comparative Education, Thesis Work

Top Colleges

Pondicherry University, Srinath University, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University Delhi, Indian Institute of Teacher Education, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Dr Vishwanath Karad, MIT World Peace University.

Job Profiles

Professor, Educational Policy Analyst, Researcher, Curriculum Developer, Academic Consultant, Principal, Education Administrator

Top Recruiters

NCERT, NIEPA, UNESCO, Educational Boards, Universities, Research Institutes, Government Agencies

Average Salary in India

INR 6–10 LPA (Freshers)

 

INR 12–20 LPA (Mid-Level)

 

INR 25+ LPA (Experienced)

 

What is a Ph.D. Education?

An Ed.D. or a Ph.D. Education is a respected and research-focused program for scholars and professionals who want to enlighten themselves seriously in the dynamics of teaching, learning, policy-making and educational innovation. This doctoral program differs from graduate or master's degree programs as it focuses on original research, important analysis and educational writing, equipping candidates with the ability to offer practical contributions in the education sector.

 

Why Study Ph.D. Education?

Ph.D. In education, there is a chance to make a meaningful contribution to basic ideas and research in the world of education. This is perfect for passionate individuals who want to bring revolution in learning places, want to form educational policy, or develop instructions. Some schools have the following reasons for a Ph.D. It makes sense in education:

  • The sophisticated educational principles allow you to engage, do extended-level research and introduce new knowledge that can shape education systems at local, national or international levels.
  • It gives you access to senior academic roles such as professors, researchers or academic advisors of the university. Graduates also take leadership positions in government departments, NGOs or international institutions.
  • Ph.D. Researchers usually interact with policy makers and institutions, the course models, teacher training modules and help in shaping the inclusive education policies.
  • The program provides intellectual challenges to students and has an impact on future generations through knowledge, creativity and advocacy.
  • Applicants can be experts in various fields such as educational technology, special education, comparative education, or course development based on their career aspirations and interests.

 

Who should study Ph.D. Education?

Ph.D. In education, it is ideal for those who are passionate about the improvement in the profession of education through research, policy and practice. This is not just an academic effort - it is a calling for those who are taught education, and enhanced, who desire to create an impressive difference in it.

  • Those who want to make a career in the form of professors, researchers, or scholars at the university should follow this track to write in academic magazines and contribute to educational ideas.
  • Independent government agencies, NGOs or individuals working with international organizations will be assisted by intensive analysis and research skills obtained through PhD.
  • Teachers who wish to go into leadership positions, design courses or size instructions should consider this program based on evidence-based practices.
  • Teachers who target advisory work in ad-tech companies, course development centers, or international think tanks can achieve skills to support their recommendations with sound research.
  • He will find this degree rewarding and effective, with a high interest in learning for a lifetime and innovation in education.

 

Ph.D Education Eligibility Criteria

To become eligible to apply for a Ph.D. in Education in India, one needs to fulfill the following eligibility criteria:

  • A master's degree in education (M.Ed.) or allied study like an M.A. in Education/educational psychology/sociology of education, or related disciplines.
  • Applicants should have obtained a minimum 55% aggregate marks (or equivalent grade) in their postgraduate degree. A relaxation of 5% is commonly granted to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/PwD applicants under UGC guidelines.
  • A majority of universities insist on applicants passing national-level examinations such as UGC NET / CSIR NET / SET. Other universities hold their own Ph.D. entrance exams.
  • Shortlisted applicants usually have a personal interview round. They could also be required to provide or present a research proposal on their desired study area.
  • Though not necessary, teaching or research experience in education is usually desired, particularly in the case of part-time or sponsored appointees.

 

Ph.D. Education Entrance Exams 2025

For pursuing a Ph.D. Education in India, various national/state/university-level entrance examinations are required to be taken. Colleges and Universities in India offer admission depending on the marks or rank obtained in these examinations. Some of the top Ph.D. Education entrance examinations in India are given below:

Exam Name

Application Date

 

(Tentative)

Exam Date

 

(Tentative)

Application Fee

UGC NET 2026

Jan-Feb, 2026 (June cycle)

 

Aug-Sep, 2026 (Dec cycle)

June 2026

 

Dec 2026

INR 1150 (General)

 

INR 600 (OBC/EWS)

 

INR 325 (SC/ST/PwD/Transgender)

CSIR NET 2026

Feb-Mar, 2026

June 2026

INR 1100 (General)

 

INR 550 (OBC)

 

INR 275 (SC/ST/PwD)

CUET-PG (for Ph.D. where applicable)

Dec 2025–Jan 2026

March 2026

INR 1200 (General)

 

INR 1000 (OBC/EWS)

 

INR 900 (SC/ST/PwD)

University-level Ph.D. Entrance (e.g., DUET, JMI, JNU, TISS)

Varies by university (Jan–June 2026)

Varies by university

INR 500 – INR 2000 (depending on university and category)

 

Ph.D. Education Colleges

Various institutions in India are offering Ph.D. Education courses; each institute has got some entrance exam criteria for admitting students. Some of the top Ph.D. Education colleges in India have been mentioned below, along with their total course fee, NIRF Ranking, and entrance exams required for admission:

College Name

Location

Total Course Fees(Approx.)

Pondicherry University

Kalapet

 

Pondicherry

INR 60,000

Srinath University

Jamshedpur, Jharkhand

INR 1,50,000

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University Delhi

Kashmere Gate,

 

Delhi

INR 38,220

Indian Institute of Teacher Education

Gandhinagar, Gujarat

INR 73,000

Somaiya Vidyavihar University

Mumbai

INR 50,000

Dr Vishwanath Karad, MIT World Peace University

Pune, Maharashtra

INR 3,00,000 total

 

Ph.D. Education Admission Process 2025

Admission to the PhD in Education is based on the entrance exam scores of the candidate. For your reference, given below is the step by step admission process for the Pondicherry University:

 

Step 1: Go to the official website of Pondicherry University. In an education program. Register individual, educational and contact information and register. Upload auxiliary documents and pay the application fee.

 

Step 2: Take the entrance exam conducted by the university (eg, DUET, UGC NET, RET, or institute-based test), subject to exemption (e.g., if the candidate is UGC NET/JRF qualified or possesses an M.Phil).

 

Step 3: After the admission test ends, shortlisted applicants are called for a personal interview or research proposal presentation, in which academic readiness are tested.

 

Step 4: Based on the collective performance in the entrance examination and interview, a merit list is released. Shortlisted candidates are offered provisional admissions.

 

Step 5: According to the university criteria, finally finalize the admission by paying the first semester's fee online/offline.

 

Step 6: Physical journey to the document verification institute, finalizing the proposal with a guide, and completing other formalities.

 

Step 7: The final admit card is issued by the institute and the student is formally nominated in a PhD. Program.

 

Required Documents:

  • Postgraduate Degree Certificate (M.Ed./M.A. in Education or equivalent)
  • UG Degree Mark Sheet
  • 10th and 12th Certificates
  • UGC NET/JRF Certificate (if applicable)
  • M.Phil Certificate (if seeking exemption from entrance)
  • Identity Proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Voter ID)
  • Research Proposal (draft)
  • Passport-size Photographs
  • Migration/Transfer Certificate
  • Caste/Category Certificate (if applicable)
  • Experience Certificate (if any)
  • NOC from employer (for working professionals)

 

Ph.D. Education Syllabus

The syllabus for Ph.D. in Education in India is more or less the same in the colleges offering the course. The syllabus may slightly differ depending on the curriculum followed by the institute. For reference, the syllabus for Ph.D. in Education is given below:

Course Structure

DSE: Discipline Specific Elective

Research Methodology

Teacher Education

Data Processing and Computer Application

Educational Assessment and Evaluation

Review of Literature

Guidance & Counselling

Elective-I

Education of Disadvantaged

Elective-II

Gender Studies

-

Educational Technology

-

Education of Differently Abled Children

 

Ph.D. Education vs. Ed.D. Doctor of Education

There is an advanced educational program in education that focuses on educational theory, research methods, course study and policy-making. It is mainly designed for individuals who want to pursue a career in academics, educational leadership or policy-making. While it shares some similarities with other doctoral programs, such as Ed.D. (Doctor of Education), or Ph.D. In the course and instructions, each of these courses differs in expertise, focus and career results. The basic differences have been given in the table below:

Aspect

Ph.D. in Education

Ed.D. (Doctor of Education)

Focus

Research on education systems, policy, curriculum, and pedagogy

Practical application of leadership and administrative practices in education

Core Subjects

Curriculum studies, educational policy, philosophy of education, research methodology

Leadership in education, strategic planning, educational reform, ethics

Approach

Theoretical and research-focused

Practice-oriented and leadership-based

Career Paths

University Professor, Researcher, Policy Analyst, Curriculum Developer

School Principal, Education Administrator, Policy Advisor

Job Opportunities

Universities, government think tanks, NGOs, curriculum boards

Schools, education departments, private education firms

Average Salary

INR 6–10 LPA (Fresher)

 

INR 15–25+ LPA (Experienced)

INR 7–12 LPA (Fresher)

 

INR 15–30+ LPA (Experienced)

 

Ph.D. Education Job Opportunities in India

A Ph.D.Education opens reputed educational, policy-making, research and leadership roles in universities, NGOs and government institutions in education. Professionals with a doctoral in education are highly valuable for their expertise in education, course development, teacher training and educational psychology. Their influence can affect national education policies and institutional reforms.

Job Title

Recruiters

Experience Level

Average Salary

Assistant Professor

Central/State Universities, Private Colleges

0-1 year

INR 2.76-6.72 LPA

Research Associate

NCERT, NUEPA, TISS, Azim Premji University

1-3 year

INR 3-6 LPA

Education Policy Analyst

NITI Aayog, UNESCO, UNICEF

1-2 year

INR 3.5-7.1 LPA

Curriculum Designer

Educational Boards, Publishing Houses

0-1 year

INR 2.76-6.24 LPA

Educational Consultant

Private Schools, NGOs, EdTech Firms

1-3 year

INR 2.4-5.52 LPA

Academic Dean/HoD

State/Private Universities

1-3 year

INR 5.76-6.24 LPA

Educational Research Director

National Educational Research Institutes

15+ years

INR 16-36 LPA

Teacher Trainer

DIETs, SCERTs, NGOs

1-3 year

INR 3.48-5.76 LPA

 

Ph.D. Education FAQs

What kinds of research projects do Ph.D. in Education students commonly pursue?

Ph.D. Scholars in education are usually engaged in research work such as course development, inclusive education, educational psychology, teacher education model and policy analysis. Most of them also study digital teaching technology, learning socio-cultural references and effects of comparative education systems. These are field-work-based research with the collection of data and publication of research, which combines the changes applicable to the principle as well as the education system.

What is the professional scope after achieving a Ph.D. in Education?

Ph.D. Recipients in education can serve as university teachers, research scholars in education, policy analysts, educational advisors or course experts. They are employed by international agencies such as UNESCO and UNICEF, or think tanks that work on education improvement. A doctorate also provides opportunities to join government and private educational institutions as leaders.

Is a Ph.D. in Education limited to teaching professions?

No, although the most common option for academia, a Ph.D. Research in Education also equips the candidates for educational policy-making, course development, instructional design and Edtech. Graduates often become part of national and global educational reforms, work with NGOs, or serve as consultants in institutions such as NITI Aayog, NCERT and global education platforms.

Are Ph.D. Education students allowed to work with foreign universities or institutions?

Yes, teamwork is practiced and promoted. Many students collaborate on research with international universities or participate in international education conferences. Comparative education, policy development, or courses worldwide are likely to collaborate with international organizations such as UNESCO, OECD and international schools.

What are the new areas of study in education for Ph. D students?

New fields of research are digital education, AI for education, gender equality in learning, school mental health and stability. Educational leadership, neurodiversity students' inclusion, and socio-emotional education (SEL) are also becoming popular in schools. These contemporary topics are in line with international educational preferences and reforms.

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ExamDec 1, 2024
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ExamJan 19, 2025
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CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research)
ExamJul 25, 2024 - Jul 27, 2024
ResultSep 12, 2024
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All India Management Association (AIMA)
Exam-
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National Testing Agency (NTA)|
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ExamJan 25, 2025
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Directorate of Technical Education, Maharashtra|
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