Rudi kwenye programu
OUK

OPEN UNIVERSITY OF KENYA

The innovative university for inclusive prosperity

Shule ya Elimu

Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Policy

PHD-EDUCATIONAL-LEADERSHIP-AND-POLICY
Online
Three (3) academic years of full-time study. Each academic year consists of two (2) semesters of fifteen (15) weeks each, totalling six (6) semesters.Programme Duration
Total Fee: KES 337,500 | Year 1: KES 162,000 | Year 2: KES 132,000 | Year 3: KES 43,500. Fee Structure: <a href="/admissions/fee-structure">View full fee structure</a>Fees per Year
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OPEN UNIVERSITY OF KENYA

Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Policy

Online

Overview

The Programme shall be called Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Policy. The PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy at the Open University of Kenya is grounded in philosophical ideals promoting accessibility, flexibility, and quality education for all. It embraces educational egalitarianism and inclusivity, aiming to transcend barriers of geography, socio-economic status, and physical limitations. Lifelong learning is emphasized, echoing John Dewey's belief in education as a continual process fostering personal and professional growth. The integration of technology reflects a pragmatic approach, acknowledging its transformative potential in expanding access to knowledge. This aligns with pragmatism and instrumentalism philosophies, prioritizing practical solutions. The program also emphasizes developing visionary leaders and policy-makers, drawing from the works of theorists such as Paulo Freire and bell hooks. It seeks to empower graduates with the skills and ethical grounding to challenge existing paradigms and advocate for educational justice. Overall, the program embodies a holistic approach deeply rooted in principles of accessibility, lifelong learning, technological innovation, and ethical leadership, aiming to cultivate leaders capable of driving meaningful change in education. The rationale of the programme is justified by the pressing need for transformative leadership and evidence-based policy-making in the field of education. In a rapidly changing world, characterized by technological advancements and complex societal challenges, there is a critical demand for skilled leaders who can envision and implement innovative solutions to improve educational systems. By focusing on accessible, flexible, and high-quality education, the programme addresses the need to ensure that education is inclusive and reaches all learners, regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances. Emphasizing 21st-century skills equips graduates with the tools necessary to navigate these challenges and contribute positively to educational development. Furthermore, the programme's regional and global perspectives recognize the interconnected nature of education and the importance of collaboration in addressing shared issues. By promoting research, community engagement, and international collaboration, the programme aims to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, ultimately advancing equity, quality, and innovation in education both locally and globally. The overarching goal of the programme is to cultivate visionary leaders and policy-makers who possess the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding to drive transformative change in educational systems at both regional and global levels. Through a commitment to accessible, flexible, and high-quality education, the programme aims to foster lifelong learning and utilize technology to bridge educational disparities. By emphasizing 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, innovation, and collaboration, graduates are prepared to navigate and address the evolving challenges facing education today. The programme seeks to uphold the values of inclusivity and academic excellence, ensuring that all learners have equitable access to educational opportunities. Through research, community engagement, comparative studies, and international collaboration, the programme strives to advance equity, quality, and innovation in education.

Career Prospects

  • Educational administration (career advancement in educational administration)
  • Policy advisory roles (influencing and advising on educational policy)
  • Academia (teaching and research in universities)
  • University, government agencies, and the private sector (educational leadership and policy roles nationally and globally)
  • Research and professional practice
  • The programme enhances career prospects in educational administration, policy advisory roles, and academia; enables graduates to influence educational policy and improve school administration; and prepares students for future careers in academia, research, or professional practice.

Learning Outcomes

  • PLO1: Analyse educational policies at local, national, and global levels to understand their impact on educational practices and outcomes.
  • PLO2: Design rigorous empirical studies to address complex educational challenges, employing appropriate research methodologies and analytical techniques.
  • PLO3: Utilize analytical frameworks to diagnose problems and develop strategic interventions in the educational field.
  • PLO4: Demonstrate effective communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution skills necessary for leadership roles in educational settings.
PROGRAMME DURATIONThree (3) academic years of full-time study. Each academic year consists of two (2) semesters of fifteen (15) weeks each, totalling six (6) semesters.
FEE PER YEARTotal Fee: KES 337,500 | Year 1: KES 162,000 | Year 2: KES 132,000 | Year 3: KES 43,500. Fee Structure: <a href="/admissions/fee-structure">View full fee structure</a>
APPLICATION STATUSOpen

INTAKE

2026 — Ongoing

Admission Requirements

  • The general requirements for admission into the Ph.D degree of Open University of Kenya shall apply.
  • Holder of a Master's Degree in Education, or Holder of a Master of Arts degree in Social Sciences and working in an educational setting.
  • Applicants will be required to write a concept paper.
  • Minimum University entrance requirements: a candidate shall normally be a holder of a Master's Degree of a recognised university in the relevant field; or a holder of a Master's Degree of any other University recognized by OUK Senate; or a holder of other qualifications considered by OUK Senate as equivalent to a relevant Master's degree.
  • A statement/concept paper of intended research so as to demonstrate personal interest and insight regarding the research topic, and ability to undertake research independently through a provisional conceptualization and design of the research.
  • For international students, admission will normally be granted subject to the candidate fulfilling OUK University Rules and Regulations governing Graduate Studies and meeting the Commission for University Education requirement.
  • Applications for admission into a PhD programme shall be submitted online to the Dean on prescribed forms with appropriate application fees receipt. The candidate's original and certified copies of Bachelors and Master's degree certificates, plus all the relevant transcripts and testimonials must also be submitted for verification by a relevant body. An applicant shall submit with the application forms a statement of intended research, and pay an application fee which is determined by the University Senate from time to time.

Government Funding

KUCCPS-placed students are eligible for government scholarships and HELB loans under the new funding model.

Flexibility

Customise your learning pace and choose courses that fit your commitments.

Inclusivity

Diversity is celebrated — all students have access to support services.

Openness

Open admissions, affordable tuition, and online delivery remove barriers.

Certification

Progressive: Certificate → Diploma → Degree as you complete credit hours.

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