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Research

The School of Education is home to a vibrant, inclusive, interdisciplinary research community. Our four research groups span diverse fields of learning and development across the life course, from the early years to higher education, to professional and lifelong learning.

Internationally-recognised senior researchers and researcher-practitioners work alongside early career researchers and doctoral students in an environment that encourages inclusivity, collaboration and critical dialogue. We work across the rich disciplinary and methodological traditions of educational research, including the humanities, social sciences, life sciences, and health sciences.

 Funding comes from a variety of organisations, including research councils, government departments, international agencies and charities.

Research Excellence

Oxford Brookes University is home to world-leading research in Education across a variety of disciplines. In REF2021, The majority of research outputs were considered to be of internationally excellent or internationally recognised quality in terms of originality, significance and rigour. Internationally excellent outputs were found in the diverse areas of research specialism outlined below. Over 66% of research outputs were rated as world leading or internationally excellent. 75% of research impact was judged to be world leading or internationally excellent with case studies in supporting and mentoring student research, and in creative Science pedagogy that significantly improves outcomes for young learners.

In 2021 we saw a 70% increase in research activity graded as either "world leading" or "internationally excellent" since REF2014. THES ranking shows that our research has risen 20 places since REF 2014. The above successes demonstrate an environment for research in Education at Oxford Brookes that is conducive to internationally excellent research. Our approach to research is interdisciplinary, inclusive, and impactful. We welcome prospective students and collaborators to join our thriving research community.

Research degrees

Research in the School of Education spans learning and development from the early years through to primary, secondary, further and higher education. It covers both formal education and informal learning outside institutional contexts, and a range of disciplinary traditions and methodological approaches. We have strong connections with other researchers in the University and beyond, including many international links and connections with schools and other educational organisations.


Research degree in Education


Research funding opportunities


Doctoral Training Programme


Research student profiles


Information for current research students