Graduates of the PhD in Educational Studies develop the competence and expertise needed to assume positions of leadership, such as educational researchers in institutional and non-institutional contexts; teacher educators; curriculum and instructional leaders in school boards and private industry; and school, school board, and governmental educational administrators. This program also promotes collaborative work with colleagues in educational endeavours and lifelong professional development.

Candidates for admission to the PhD in Educational studies must have demonstrated high academic standing and evidence of ability to conduct original, independent and sustained research. Normally, the basic requirements are: First class standing (e.g., a minimum academic average of 80%, or A-, or a GPA of 3.7) or equivalent, in a Masters program conferred by an accredited university (students with Pass grades must request that former professors complete a narrative assessment form to confirm first class standing equivalence and potential for admission to a PhD program). A Masters thesis. An equivalent research report such as a Masters project, or a substantial research-focused technical report , authored solely by the applicant, may also be considered. Evidence of a minimum of 5 years professional experience in field deemed relevant to the field of educational studies