PhD study

The DME is a rich, innovative environment in which to conduct doctoral research. Our research addresses many aspects of mathematics education.

Studying for a PhD in mathematics education offers a unique opportunity to explore a topic of personal and professional interest in depth, supported by internationally recognised supervisors. Along the way, you’ll develop as a reflective practitioner and skilled researcher, gaining deep insight into your chosen area of study. We invite you to explore our PhD opportunities below.

Development

Pursuing a PhD enables you to explore a personally meaningful topic, supported by expert supervisors, while contributing valuable insights to your department and school.

Career

A PhD equips you with deep expertise, proven commitment, strong analytical skills, and a competitive edge for advancing your career in mathematics education.

Self-funded PhD

We welcome students who wish to do self-funded PhD!

If you are interested in pursuing a self-funded project, please contact the member of staff, whose expertise fits your topic best. Express your interest directly with them. If you need some inspiration please consult the online prospectus. Link below.

Projects proposed by our staff

PhD studentships

Apply for a PhD studentship via our partner - Midlands Graduate School ESRC-DTP.

Loughborough students can apply for this opportunity via our partner - Midlands Graduate School ESRC-DTP. The PhD studentships are offered on a competitive basis.

If you are interested in this programme, please consult the ESRC-DTP website to find out about:

  • placement types & requirements
  • application guidance 
  • eilgibility requirements 
  • funding

Prior application, we strongly encourage you to contact your preferred supervisor.

PhD studentships - ESRC DTP

PhD study for teachers

Practising teachers are welcome to apply for part-time PhD study at the Department of Mathematics Education.

If you interested in this opportunity please contact member of staff who would be your preferred supervisor.

For details about funding, see the Research degree funding section in the Prospectus and for PhD loans see the Doctoral loan information in the UK Government website.

  • Studying for a PhD allows you the opportunity to:
    • research something of personal interest as a teacher of mathematics;
    • be supported by supervisors with international reputations as researchers in mathematics education;
    • benefit your depart and school through the findings of your study.
  • Studying for a PhD will:
    • develop your awareness and skills as a reflective practitioner;
    • develop skills as a researcher;
    • help you learn in depth about your area of study;
    • enable you to become an 'expert' in your chosen field.
  • Studying for a PhD can open doors in your future career by:
    • becoming very knowledgeable about issues relating to mathematics education;
    • having demonstrated a commitment to studying and learning more about issues relating to mathematics education;
    • being analytical and articulate about issues relating to your study;
    • being more qualified than others when applying for new posts.