Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Education with Specialization in Higher Education

Feb 24
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for senior academics, university leaders, policy makers, and experienced professionals who aim to contribute original knowledge and strategic insight to the field of higher education. Academically positioned at a level equal to EQF Level 8, the program corresponds to the Third European Cycle and reflects the highest standards of advanced scholarly inquiry and institutional research.

The Doctorate in Education with Specialization in Higher Education focuses on the critical examination and transformation of higher education systems within national, regional, and global contexts. It enables candidates to investigate complex issues such as university governance, quality assurance and accreditation frameworks, internationalization strategies, digital transformation in higher education, institutional sustainability, academic leadership, funding models, and regulatory environments.

The program is structured around seven comprehensive modules:

Four research-oriented modules dedicated to advanced research design, quantitative and qualitative methodologies, academic publishing, and scholarly analysis.
Two general modules strengthening theoretical foundations in educational philosophy, policy analysis, and institutional development.
One specialized module focused specifically on higher education systems, comparative models, global standards, and strategic innovation in universities.

In addition to the modular framework, the program includes thesis and research activities that require candidates to conduct independent, original research addressing contemporary challenges in higher education. The emphasis is placed on analytical depth, methodological rigor, and meaningful academic contribution.

The minimum duration of the program is 18 months. However, candidates benefit from academic flexibility, allowing extended research time where required to ensure the quality and impact of their scholarly work.

This doctorate study program is particularly suited for professionals seeking to influence educational reform, lead institutional transformation, contribute to international academic discourse, and shape the future direction of higher education systems worldwide.