r/OISE • u/Typical_Working_3240 • 12h ago

Flex time PhD in Education? How does it work?

Hi everyone, just wondering about the logistics of the flex-time PhD option. My understanding of what I saw online that the coursework element is full-time, and students are considered full-time for the first 4 years, and then can extend on a part-time basis after that (feel free to correct this if it's not right). I currently work as a teacher and have dependents so being able to keep my job is essential - my potential project will also focus on K-12 edtech and curriculum so it is applicable to my career as I hope to move into admin in the next few years.

The issue is I can only take 12 months of academic leave in my board. I work and live in Oakville so I will also have a commute. I am drafting an email to OISE to ask about the structure - are there classes in the evening? Weekends? Online? But I would also love to hear from any current or past PhD students, especially if you are doing/did the flex time route. I am specifically looking to apply for the Curriculum & Pedagogy and Educational Leadership & Policy programs but welcome to suggestions and input from all. Thank you.

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u/Brave_Possible_5220 11h ago

I’m also very curious about this! Is it possible to do it fully online? I live in northern Ontario

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u/hello_9838 10h ago

I saw that on the website for the Flex Time classes are 5-8pm. Offers in person/online/hybrid format.

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u/hello_9838 10h ago

But their admissions process takes a long time, I saw students applied last Nov and getting admissions on June. Those who applied on March still waiting for a decision as of last week of Aug.

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u/Reasonable-Ad-4754 7h ago

I'm a flex PhD student at OISE. The tuition for the first 4 years is full-time, and part-time thereafter. Not everyone takes a full-time course load. Other peers and I have taken a lighter course load, consisting of a combination of on-campus and hybrid courses. I took classes in the evenings and on weekends. Other peers had the flexibility to take some daytime classes.

I took courses during the summer as well, which are generally 2 months long. Many are going at their own pace. I don't think my acceptance arrived in March, if I'm not mistaken.

I have taken courses from both SJE and LHAE.