The UCL Institute of Education (IOE) has a long and distinguished history of research excellence. We have been ranked number 1 in the world for Education in the 2017 QS rankings, for the fourth year running. We are also ranked first in the UK for our research strength and conduct more world-leading research in the field of education than any other university (Research Excellence Framework 2014). The IOE has the largest doctoral community in the UK of students researching education and related social sciences, consistently hosting over 800 doctoral students.

The IOE's areas of expertise include:

• Disciplines of education. Exploring early years to workplace and lifelong learning, as well as children and families, health and wellbeing, and international development.
• The organisation and improvement of learning. Investigating factors that lead to tangible improvements in learning taking into account broader social, cultural and historical contexts.
• Curriculum, culture and knowledge. Appraising the relationship between knowledge, learning and culture in educational environments.
• Children, families and early learning. Examining early learning and education for children in families and formal institutions.
• Longitudinal and social research. Studying the long term impact of education and skills in employment, health, social and other outcomes through statistical and quantitative research.

IOE staff conduct research for governments, NGOs and international organisations and the IOE's expertise continues to influence and shape educational policy across the world.

This environment makes studying with us as a doctoral student both rewarding and exciting. Our students learn in a setting that is fully dedicated to education and related social sciences while working with academic supervisors who are leading contributors to their field.

Research students study in our prestigious Centre for Doctoral Education. The Centre brings together all IOE students registered for PhD, EdD, DEdPsy, MPhil and MRes degrees and provides a vibrant and productive research environment designed to support high-quality, innovative research.

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