Online PhD in Education

An online Ed.D. degree is a good option for people who want to make a difference in education. It differs from a Ph.D. because it focuses on leadership skills, not research.

Online Ed.D. programs are flexible and can be completed while working full-time. They typically take 3-4 years to finish.

The cost of an online Ed.D. degree varies depending on the school and program.

Admissions requirements typically include a master's degree and letters of recommendation.

Online Ed.D. programs often emphasize administrative leadership. Students may study policies, laws, research methods, and program evaluation.

Specializations are available in areas such as leadership in higher education, special education leadership, and diversity and equity in education.

Students must complete a dissertation to earn an online Ed.D. degree.

Graduates of online Ed.D. programs are qualified for leadership positions in schools, government agencies, and educational organizations.

Licensure requirements vary by state and position.

Online Ed.D. programs offer flexibility, expertise, and resources for career development. They are a good option for people who want to make a difference in education.

EdD vs. PhD in Education

• EdD: Designed for individuals who want to apply their knowledge and skills in practice.
• PhD: Highest degree in the field and geared towards research and teaching positions.
• EdD: Focuses on educational leadership and combines research and practical application.
• PhD: Focuses on developing research skills, critical thinking, and technical expertise.
• EdD: Duration can vary, but typically 2-5 years.
• PhD: Duration typically 3-4 years.
• EdD: Residency component required.
• PhD: Residency component not required.
• EdD: Benefits include knowledge and skills to influence educational policies, enhance competitiveness in the job market, and open doors to administrative roles.
• PhD: Benefits include research skills, critical thinking, and technical expertise, which can lead to careers as educational researchers or faculty members.
• Both degrees can lead to rewarding careers in the education sector.

Choosing between an EdD and a PhD

The choice between an EdD and a PhD depends on your personal preferences and career goals. If you are interested in applying your knowledge and skills in practice, then an EdD may be a good fit for you. If you are interested in research and teaching, then a PhD may be a better choice.

How to get started

To start your journey towards a doctoral degree in education, you will need to obtain a master's degree in education or a related field. Most programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher, along with additional requirements, such as specific entrance exams.

Conclusion

Both EdD and PhD degrees in education offer numerous benefits and can lead to rewarding careers in the education sector. By understanding the differences between the two, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your passion and career goals.

5 Popular Online PhD in Education Programs

University of Arizona (Global Campus)

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Accreditation: Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become leading education researchers.

With the option to earn the degree online, this program offers flexibility and convenience for individuals returning to school while balancing other commitments.

The online Ph.D. in education at UAGC consists of 15 core courses in education and research, along with an elective research course and a capstone seminar. Students will explore educational theories, practices, policies, strategies, and issues, culminating in completing a doctoral dissertation.

The program equips graduates with the ability to evaluate educational strategies, develop policies, propose evidence-based solutions, and apply diverse research methods to educational research questions.

By earning a Ph.D. in Education from UAGC, students open doors to a variety of careers in education, including instructional coordinators, curriculum and instructional directors, instructional designers, program administrators, and education administrators.

Walden University

PhD in Education

Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Walden University offers an online PhD in Education program designed to prepare professionals for roles as education researchers, scholars, and practitioners.

As the leading educator of educators, Walden understands the unique needs of distance PhD students and provides comprehensive support throughout the doctoral journey. With a focus on educational transformation, students join a community of scholar-practitioners who are passionate about making a positive impact in the field of education.

Walden's program allows educators to advance their practice as postsecondary teachers, researchers, or school administrators.

The university is ranked No. 1 in doctoral research degree graduates and has over five decades of experience in distance learning.

Walden offers a range of specializations, personalized support, and in-person residencies to foster networking and collaboration among faculty and peers.

By earning an online PhD in Education from Walden, graduates gain the advanced expertise needed to address systemic challenges in education and lead transformative change in various settings, such as schools, colleges, universities, and research institutions.

National University

Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD-Ed)

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

National University offers a 100% online Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD-Ed) degree program. This program is designed to make significant contributions to the field of education and empower students to become active scholars.

With National University's PhD-Ed program, students have the flexibility to customize their doctorate by choosing from 16 professionally relevant specializations. Whether their interest lies in curriculum and teaching, learning analytics, early childhood education, organizational leadership, or other areas, there's a specialization suited for them.

Throughout the program, students will develop in-depth knowledge, skills, and dispositions in their chosen specialization. They will also gain a broader understanding of research methodologies and explore ethical principles, professional standards, and ways to share their research through presentations and publications.

At National University, we understand the needs of educators, which is why our program is designed by educators for educators. Throughout their journey, they'll receive guidance and support from experienced advisors and faculty who are committed to their success.

The program consists of 60 credit hours and can be completed in approximately 37 months. The program includes a dissertation component that allows students to contribute to the body of research knowledge in their field.

Take the first step in your National University journey today. With weekly course starts and 100% online coursework, students can complete their studies on their own time. Whether they're interested in teaching in higher education, conducting educational research, or working in the field of educational research, National University's PhD-Ed program can help them achieve their career goals. Request more information or apply now to embark on this transformative educational experience.

Liberty University (Online)

Online Ph.D. Programs in Education

Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

Liberty University offers a comprehensive and flexible online Ph.D. in Education program that provides advanced studies in education and administration. With the convenience of 100% online, 8-week courses, students can earn their Ph.D. in as little as 3 years. The program allows for the transfer of up to 50% of the degree credits, providing flexibility for students with prior academic experience.

By pursuing a Ph.D. in Education from Liberty University, students have the opportunity to shape and design new curriculums, equipping them with effective management principles to lead educational administrations at all levels. The program emphasizes a Christian worldview, integrating relevant topics and current events with the principles of God's Word.

Graduates of the online Ph.D. in Education program can expect to gain advanced training in education, organizational leadership, and research, enhancing their communication and problem-solving skills. This prepares them to make a positive impact in their schools, communities, and the field of education as a whole.

Earning a Ph.D. in Education from Liberty University can open doors to increased earning potential and positions of added responsibility in the education sector. The program also provides networking opportunities through optional on-campus intensives, allowing students to connect with peers and professors. Completing a Ph.D. in Education demonstrates to employers that graduates have achieved the highest level of expertise in their field.

If you're considering pursuing an online Ph.D. in Education, Liberty University's program offers a combination of academic excellence, convenience, and a faith-based approach. It equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become influential leaders in the field of education.

Johns Hopkins

Doctor of Education

Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP)

The Doctor of Education program offered by Johns Hopkins University's School of Education is a globally recognized and innovative online program designed for busy education practitioners.

With a focus on preparing scholar-practitioners, this program allows educators to enhance their knowledge and skills while continuing to work in their professional contexts.

By offering a comprehensive and student-centered curriculum, the EdD program equips education-practitioners to become transformational leaders in their respective fields. The program emphasizes social justice, systems thinking, research methods, and empirical inquiry, providing students with a unique and rigorous course of study.

The program offers flexibility in elective choices, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to align with their professional interests and address their specific problem of practice.

By fostering critical thinking and deep understanding, Johns Hopkins University aims to empower graduates to tackle complex educational problems, contribute to research and professional practice, and drive positive and sustained change in educational contexts worldwide.