The final article looks at writing your research proposal - from the introduction through to citations and referencing - as well as preparing for your interview. 


This article explores the ethical issues that may arise in your proposed study during your doctoral research degree.


Your research methodology is the approach you will take to guide your research
process and explain why you use particular methods. This article explains more.


A doctoral research degree is the highest academic qualification that a student can achieve. The guidance provided in these articles will help you apply for one of the two main types of research degree offered by The Open University.


OpenLearn provides a rich range of learning opportunities across diverse subject areas, supporting learners at different stages of their academic journey. Whether you have completed a small number of advanced courses or engaged more extensively with the platform, your studies demonstrate experience of independent, online, and distance learning. You may now wish to consider how this learning could be developed further at postgraduate level.

Want to build on your undergraduate study or further develop your thinking as a postgraduate? Here you will find a number of OpenLearn courses to help with the skills needed for postgraduate online distance learning.
Read about the experiences of a range of EdD graduates, and how their doctorate has shaped their lives professionally and personally.