In response to the evolving needs in English language education, the Department of Language Education launched a Ph.D. program in English Language Education in 2020. This program shifts the focus from coursework to substantial research requirements that culminate in a thesis within specific areas of specialization. The dissertation entails an independent, original, and narrowly defined research project conducted under the guidance of a designated supervisor.

The 40-50 credit program aims to build the research capacity of both Nepali and international scholars to enhance practices in their respective professions. It welcomes qualified postgraduate students from various fields, including English language education and teaching, English literature, and English linguistics.

The program's framework is designed to foster creativity and innovation in research productivity, providing students with a platform to explore new avenues in English language education. Research students are encouraged to create their own learning environments and position themselves as prominent researchers in their areas of expertise.

Program Objective and Attributes 

By completing PhD in English Language Education program, research students are expected to demonstrate

• An ability to identify research issue(s) and to formulate viable research questions;
• Capacity to design, conduct and report independent and original research on a distinct research program;
• Ability to define, derive and apply appropriate quality standards for their research;
• A sound understanding of the significant areas, focus and contours of local, regional and international research in their respective research area;
• Capacity for critical assessment of relevant scholarly literature in their field of study;
• Well-developed flexible problem-solving abilities (skills, knowledge and attitudes) appropriate to the area of study;
• Ability to analyse and interpret research data as per the ethos of paradigm(s), methodologies and methods employed in their research;
• The capacity to share the results of research and scholarship by oral and written communication effectively.
• Sound understanding of scholarly conventions in their fields of study;
• Sound knowledge of the need to respect for truth and intellectual integrity, and the ethics of research and scholarship;
• Capacity to collaborate with other researchers and organizations; and
• Ability to manage information effectively, including the application of computer systems, software, and online databases where appropriate to the student's field of study.

Duration

Generally, full-time Ph.D. students are expected to complete their research in 3 years. Part-time students can submit their research work after 4 years.  The maximum duration for completing the degree requirements is 6 years for full-time students and 8 years for part-time students.