Doctor of Philosophy in
Gifted Education
Our program preparing researchers and leaders in gifted education, talent development, and creativity.
Our program is fully accredited by the relevant national and regional higher education authorities and aligns with the highest international standards in gifted education, including NAGC program standards
Established 2008 with 120+ graduates, the PhD in Gifted Education (revised 2024/2025) at AGU prepares scholars and leaders to advance research and policy in giftedness across the GCC.
It integrates advanced theories of giftedness, identification, differentiated curriculum, twice-exceptionality, talent management, policy, plus advanced research methodology and statistics, culminating in an original doctoral dissertation.
The leading PhD programme in Gifted Education in the GCC since 2008, with 120+ doctoral graduates serving the region.
Distinctive curriculum integrating twice-exceptionality, talent management, AI applications in giftedness, and gifted education policy.
Extended internship across the doctoral journey allowing applied research and leadership in schools, centres, and policy bodies.
Program revised 2024/2025 following international evaluation by experts from Johns Hopkins, Georgia, Glasgow Universities, and the American Psychological Association.
Advanced research methodology and statistics (SEM, IRT, meta-analysis, systematic reviews) preparing graduates for high-impact scholarship.
Curriculum
Structure
First Year
24 Credits
Second Year
26 Credits
Internship & Dissertation
18 Credits
Credit Requirement
four semesters of coursework (50 credit hours)
Dissertation is 16 Credits
The internship may be registered in any semester during the coursework stage
internship is 8 Credits
Target
Audience
MSc Graduates
Holders of a Master's degree (GPA 3.0+) in gifted education, special education, education, or psychology
Senior teachers
supervisors, and leaders in gifted programmes seeking doctoral qualification
Researchers and academics
in gifted education, creativity, and talent development
Senior practitioners
in gifted enrichment centres and talent management initiatives
Higher-education faculty
and policy makers serving gifted populations in the GCC
Research
Areas
Twice-exceptional learners, social-emotional needs, and policy in gifted education
Differentiated curriculum, enrichment, acceleration, and AI applications in gifted programmes
Advanced identification, assessment, and psychometric tool development for gifted learners
Theories of giftedness, talent development, and creativity in the GCC context
Study Plan
Explore the complete list of courses
LEarning
& Research facilities
Digital Scientific Library and Research Resources
Field Practicum Placements in Schools and Gifted Programmes
Strategic Partnerships with Regional Centres of Excellence
Identification and Assessment Laboratory
LEarning
Outcomes
Advanced Specialised Knowledge:
demonstrate in-depth theoretical and applied expertise in giftedness, creativity, and talent development, grounded in current evidence-based practice
Advanced Assessment and Programme Design:
apply advanced identification frameworks, design and evaluate gifted programmes, and address twice-exceptionality through evidence-based interventions
Independent Doctoral Research:
design and conduct rigorous independent research using advanced quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods designs, plus structural equation modelling and meta-analysis
Leadership, Policy, and Talent Management:
lead policy initiatives, manage talent development programmes, and contribute to gifted education scholarship in the GCC and globally.