Overview

The Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Education Ph.D. program combines intensive coursework, a module at one of the partner universities (University of Cambridge or University of Pennsylvania), and in-depth exploration of advanced research methodology to develop scholars and independent researchers in the field of Education. It is a full-time four-year program.

Central to the NUGSE Ph.D. experience is the completion of a substantial piece of independent research, in the form of a Ph.D. dissertation.

Why PhD in Education?

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) is a rigorous 4-year program designed to equip graduates with advanced research skills, in-depth knowledge, and expertise in their chosen fields.
This program prepares graduates for impactful careers in academic research, teaching, policy development, educational leadership, and other influential roles. With a strong emphasis on critical thinking, collaborative leadership, and cutting-edge research, the program focuses on educational advancement in Kazakhstan and global contexts, empowering graduates to make meaningful contributions to the education sector locally and internationally.

Programme Structure

Course include:

Education Research Methods
Advanced Methods of Education Research (Quantitative Methods)
Globalization and Education
Education Policy and Reform
Philosophy of Education

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-02 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-31 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

46

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

5.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Astana, Kazakhstan

Disciplines

Education

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

GPA

Required

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

46

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

5.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent);
A Master’s degree or equivalent.
A competitive CGPA in applicant’s Master’s (or equivalent) degree.
High level of English proficiency
2 years of work experience in a relevant field.
At the discretion of the Admissions Committee applicants with less than 2 years of work experience may also be considered.
High motivation and strong interest in the Program as outlined in a personal statement;
Relevant research interest and knowledge of research subject as demonstrated in a written research proposal;
Three letters of recommendation.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Nazarbayev University and/or in Kazakhstan, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

23500 KZT / year

≈ 23500 KZT / year

Living costs

Astana

Kazakhstan

151250 - 222349 KZT / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.