online phd for teachers

Education (Online), EdD

School of education.

To address the dramatically changing landscape of education in the 21st century, which includes new research on the science of learning, advances in technology, and the emergence of a for-profit education sector, the Johns Hopkins School of Education offers an innovative online Doctor of Education degree program. This EdD program is designed to prepare an exceptional corps of educational practitioner-scholars, both nationally and internationally, who can set a high standard for transformational leadership in education, apply evidence-based practices to improve educational outcomes, and meet the vast challenges associated with improving learning outcomes in both public and private educational environments.

For more information about the EdD program, please visit  https://education.jhu.edu/academics/edd/ . If you have any questions about the EdD program, please contact  [email protected] .

Admission Requirements

At minimum, applicants to the EdD program should hold a master’s degree from an accredited college or university. Previous degrees must document high academic achievement (a minimum GPA of 3.0) in an area of study closely associated with the objectives of the program. If the earned degree or credit is from an educational institution abroad, the candidate’s academic record must be evaluated by a credential evaluation agency before consideration for admission. Applicants must submit the online admission application form, application fee, official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, a curriculum vitae (résumé), online interview, and two letters of recommendation signed by each recommender. These letters should include the following:

• A professor with whom the applicant worked in their master's program who can speak to the applicant's competency to conduct rigorous scholarly work, and
• A colleague/supervisor from the applicant’s professional context/industry who can attest to the applicant's qualifications to pursue a doctorate, the applicant's impact on the recommender’s  professional practice, and knowledge of and support for the applicant's proposed area of research/Problem of Practice.

Additionally, applicants will submit a personal statement including responses to the following:

• Describe a significant Problem of Practice relevant to your current context/industry of professional practice.
• Indicate the importance of this problem within the applicant’s industry and/or their specific context of professional practice.
• Discuss the potential underlying causes for or contributing factors related to this Problem of Practice.
• Discuss the ways in which this problem aligns with at least one or two areas of interest.

All applicants who meet the entrance requirements will be asked to submit video and written responses to question prompts.

International students must fulfill the general requirements for admission and complete additional requirements—see  https://education.jhu.edu/admission-financial-aid/admissions/international-applicants/ .

Note: This program is not eligible for student visa sponsorship .

Students who enter the program will be required to successfully complete a series of pre-orientation modules prior to enrollment in the program. All students are expected to show competence in the content areas of these modules.

Please note that for the online EdD program, an offer of admission is for the specific cohort to which an application is submitted. Students may accept or decline the admission offer only; deferring to a future cohort is not an option.

Program Requirements

Program structure and requirements.

Program requirements include a minimum of 90 graduate credits. Students must enter the program with a master’s degree with a minimum of 36 graduate-level credits, which will be transferred into the EdD program. If a student does not have the required 36 master’s credits, the student will be admitted on a conditional basis and must complete the additional graduate-level credits at an accredited college or university. Students with post-master’s graduate credit in related education content completed prior to admission to the EdD program may petition to transfer in an additional six credits of equivalent coursework with appropriate documentation and with the approval of the EdD program director. Thus, students must complete between 48 and 54 credits at the doctoral level at JHU. The program includes the following required coursework components (subject to change):

• Foundations of Education (15 credit hours)
• Applied Research & Evaluation (12 credit hours)
• Areas of Interest / Electives (15 elective credit hours)
• Doctoral Dossier Research (12 credit hours)*

In addition to successfully completing all the coursework requirements, candidates must also satisfy written assessments and an oral comprehensive examination that document attainment of competencies. They must also complete either an Applied Dissertation or a Dossier Style Dissertation research project, depending upon the year the candidate was admitted to the program as per the following table:

Students who extend their program of study may be required to enroll in additional independent study credits.

With permission, students admitted between Fall 2013 and Fall 2020 may opt into the Dossier Style Dissertation if they choose not to do an intervention.

Problems of Practice and Doctoral Dossier

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP)—an area of concern they have observed within their professional context—that becomes the focus of the student's Doctoral Dossier, which consists of three main projects described below.

As part of our commitment to social justice, the EdD program does not privilege one form of communication over another. Thus, all components of the Doctoral Dossier can be communicated in a modality of the student’s choosing: video, oral, scholarly writing, or public-facing writing. The Doctoral Dossier is embedded within the EdD program coursework, providing students the unique opportunity to examine an issue important to their field.

To begin their Doctoral Dossier process, students will spend their first year working on a Scholarship of Integration project (Project 1) that focuses on exploration and identification of underlying causes of and factors associated with their chosen POP. Using systems thinking, which includes perspective-taking, and the research literature, students will document their exploration in an introductory narrative that provides the rationale and supporting evidence for their decision to further pursue their research topic throughout their doctoral journey.

During the second year, following completion of the Scholarship of Integration project, students will choose one of the following two options for Project 2:

1. Scholarship of Application: Demonstrate the application of the research to practice. The purpose of this project is to a) consider how the research perpetuates and/or disrupts oppression, b) critique relevant systems, structures, and institutions, and c) determine avenues to effectively disseminate evidence to a wider audience and stakeholder group.

Example projects include: historical analysis of a topic, curriculum creation, community organization, autoethnography, instructional pedagogy, and others.   

2. Scholarship of Teaching: Development and improvement of pedagogical practices. Students examine teaching processes and assessments improve practice.

Example projects include : autoethnography of one’s teaching, innovative teaching materials, curricula, development of new courses, or development of a new pedagogical framework.   

During the third year, following completion of Project 2, students will choose one of the following:

• The scholarship option NOT chosen for Project 2, or
• Scholarship of Discovery: Search for new knowledge. Students conduct evidence-based research that leads to knowledge creation.    

Example projects include: written, oral, or other modalities of research, scholarly publications, empirical study, working paper, or book chapters.                

During the fourth year, students will complete Project 3, write an Executive Summary that ties their three projects together, and write a final reflection of their doctoral journey. The Doctoral Dossier will be presented and assessed during the fourth year.

Students are expected to complete four years of coursework and independent research concurrently. This program is cohort-based, thus if students require a leave of absence for any reason, they will return in the appropriate course sequence with the next cohort the following year.

Problems of Practice and Dossier Style Dissertation (for students admitted Fall 2021 and Fall 2022*)

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP), which is an area of concern that they have observed within their professional context. This POP becomes the focus of the student's Dossier Style Dissertation. The Dossier Style Dissertation is embedded within the EdD program coursework, which provides students with a unique opportunity to examine an issue important to the organization in which they are employed.

During the first year in the program, students synthesize research literature to understand factors relevant to the POP from a broader systems perspective. During the second year of the program, students conduct an empirical project to investigate their POP within their professional context. Students are expected to collect and analyze data to further understand and refine their identified problem. Based on the evidence in the literature review and empirical project, students will engage in a final project that may further explore an aspect of their POP or articulate a potential solution.

Students will demonstrate mastery of first- and second-year competencies through written and oral comprehensive assessments, which will serve as indicators of readiness for conducting their applied research. Students will then evaluate the effectiveness of this solution as their Applied Project (Year 3). Characteristics of the Dossier Style Dissertation that make it unique to this program include:

• Written assignments within courses that focus on the student's POP.
• Coursework that leads students to consider applications that hold the potential for significant change or impact within their organization and/or have implications for policy.
• Dossier Style Dissertation components that are embedded within coursework and distributed across the three years of the program.

Although somewhat different from a traditional dissertation in its completion and focus, students are nevertheless expected to demonstrate mastery of the relevant literature, to obtain extant and/or collect additional data, and to interpret the results in light of previous studies. The Dossier Style Dissertation will be presented at a final oral defense before a Dossier Style Dissertation Panel.

Typically, we expect that students would complete three years of coursework and independent research concurrently. It is possible that some students may need more than three years to complete their research, in which case they will be required to enroll in at least one credit hour per semester after completion of the required 90 credit hours.

*Students admitted Fall 2021 can choose to complete either the Dossier Style Dissertation or the Applied Dissertation described below. Fall 2022 students may only complete the Dossier Style Dissertation.

Problems of Practice and Applied Dissertation (for students admitted Fall 2013-2021*)

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP), which is an area of concern that they have observed within their professional context. This POP becomes the focus of the student's Applied Dissertation research. The Applied Dissertation is embedded within the EdD program coursework, which provides students with a unique opportunity to examine an issue important to the organization in which they are employed.

During the first year in the program, students examine their articulated POP to identify underlying causes and associated factors. During the second year of the program, students develop a potential solution, such as an intervention or policy change, and a plan to study the implementation of this intervention as well as proximal outcomes. Students will demonstrate mastery of first- and second-year competencies through written and oral comprehensive assessments, which will serve as indicators of readiness for conducting their applied research. Students will then evaluate the effectiveness of this solution as their Applied Dissertation (Year 3). Characteristics of the Applied Dissertation that make it unique to this program include:

• Coursework that leads students to consider solutions that hold the potential for significant change or impact within their organization and/or have implications for policy.
• Dissertation components that are embedded within coursework and distributed across the three years of the program.

Although somewhat different from a traditional dissertation in its completion and focus, students are nevertheless expected to demonstrate mastery of the relevant literature, to obtain extant and/or collect additional data, and to interpret the results in light of previous studies. The dissertation will be presented at a final oral defense before the student’s Dissertation Advisory Committee.

Typically, students will complete three years of coursework and independent research concurrently. It is possible that some students may need more than three years to complete their research, in which case they will be required to enroll in at least one credit hour per semester after completion of the required 90 credit hours.

*Students admitted Fall 2013-2020 must complete the Applied Dissertation. Students admitted Fall 2021 can choose to complete either the Dossier Style Dissertation or the Applied Dissertation. Fall 2022 students may only complete the Dossier Style Dissertation.

Learning Outcomes

Program goals.

Upon successful completion of the EdD, we expect that graduates will:

• Participate as a self-reflexive, social justice-oriented learner within diverse educational or learning communities.
• Analyze and critique educational practice and research from a social justice and systems perspective.
• Apply relevant methodologies to address critical challenges in education.
• Demonstrate a curiosity for, and a systematic approach to, at least one major topic of study within education resulting in an emerging expertise.
• Integrate research and practice-based knowledge to develop research-informed decisions and opinions about educational experiences, processes, policies, and institutions.
• Communicate effectively to diverse audiences about educational research, experiences, processes, policies, and institutions.

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• Doctor Education Leadership Innovation

Online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership and Innovation

Admissions requirements.

• Ways to Save on Tuition
• Career Outcomes

Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation Overview

It’s time to take your education career even further. Become a change agent ready to make a difference in your workplace. Earn an EdD degree online in leadership and innovation.

• Prepare for leadership roles within all areas of education, including postsecondary, government, corporate, and nonprofit institutions.
• Take doctoral courses 100% online and complete a research project you can apply to your workplace, community, or area of expertise.
• Get the credit you deserve. Save up to $12,600 (or 33%) on tuition and graduate in 2 years by transferring up to 30 credits from your master’s.
• Find resources and support every step of the way, including a Faculty Advisor and Consultant, access to a comprehensive online library, writing support, and more.
• Gain leadership, diversity and inclusion, and research skills to create innovative and transformative learning environments.

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

The HLC ( HLCommission.org ) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

A master’s degree in a related field is required to enroll in a postgraduate program. You will need to provide an official transcript that shows completion of your master’s degree from an accredited institution, though an unofficial copy may be provided during the application process. Refer to the University Catalog or speak to an Advisor to learn more.

What Courses Will I Take?

The 100% online courses for the EdD degree build your skills in leadership and innovation, with diversity, equity, and inclusion principles integrated throughout. Topics include diversity, equity, and inclusion; transformative learning; ethics and accountability; and more. Your studies culminate in an applied research project, which you can complete at your workplace or in your community.

Sample Courses

• Trends, Patterns, and Ethical Issues That Impact Education
• Research in Responsive Curriculum Design and Development Learning and Professional Practice
• Transformative Learning Environments
• Creativity, Innovation, and Intrapreneurship in Education

Program Requirements

Upcoming start dates.

We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life, and work schedules.

Develop with Faculty Expertise and Support

Our faculty are pioneers and leaders in online higher education and are dedicated to supporting you on your educational journey. You will be assigned a faculty member who will guide you. A Faculty Advisor will review your master’s degree and discuss your career goals to ensure alignment of your EdD cognate electives.

During your final four applied research courses, a Faculty Consultant will be there to assist you in choosing a research project that focuses on a practical application in your field of expertise. The Consultant will help you with completing the Institutional Review Board process, choosing a methodology, collecting and analyzing data, and defending your research project.

Ways to Save on Time and Tuition

Purdue Global works with students to find ways to reduce costs and make education more accessible. Contact us to learn about opportunities to save on your educational costs.

Earn credit for prior coursework completed at eligible institutions.

Learn about federal financial aid programs available for many of our degree programs.

Learn about federal and state grants and loan programs that may be available.

Employees of Purdue Global partner organizations may be eligible for special tuition reductions .

Graduate tuition savings for military include a 17–30% reduction per credit for current servicemembers and, 14% per credit for veterans for graduate programs.

Earn credit for your military training . We offer credit for ACE-evaluated training and CLEP and DANTES examinations.

View the total cost of attendance for your program.

Calculate Your Time and Cost

Estimate how much your prior learning credits can reduce your tuition and time to graduation.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for administrators in postsecondary education is expected to grow through 2032. Opportunities for training and development specialists and instructional coordinators are also expected to grow during this timeframe. The online doctorate in education at Purdue Global equips you with the skills and knowledge to lead education-related organizations in a fast-changing landscape.

Average Salary

In Your State

General labor market and salary data are provided by Lightcast and may not represent the outcomes experienced by Purdue Global graduates in these programs. Purdue Global graduates in these programs may earn salaries substantially different or less than the amounts listed above. Salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education, and opportunities for employment that are outside of Purdue Global's control.

Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

Join an Extensive Alumni Network

Upon graduation, you’ll become part of the Purdue Alumni Association, a vast and prestigious network of professionals. You’ll be able to make connections and access alumni benefits.

Download the Program Brochure

Download our brochure to learn more about the Online Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation and the benefits of earning your degree at Purdue Global.

Prepare yourself for success with a doctoral degree in education.

Get to Know Our Faculty

Purdue Global faculty members are real-world practitioners who bring knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and industry experience.

Faculty members who have advanced degrees

Faculty members who hold a doctorate

Faculty publications in 2022–2023

Professional development hours logged by faculty in 2022–2023

Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school- or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, July 2023. 2022–2023 academic year.

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

* Estimated Graduation Date and Average Completion: Estimated graduation date is based on the assumption that you will enroll in time to begin classes on the next upcoming start date, will remain enrolled for each consecutive term, and will maintain satisfactory academic standing in each term to progress toward completion of your program. Completion time is based on a full-time schedule. Programs will take longer for part-time students to complete.

Credit for Prior Learning: Estimate based on maximum cognate open elective credits available in degree plan. The EdD program is a new offering and thus historic data on credit for prior learning are not available. Exact transfer amount may vary. All credits must be validated on official transcript(s) to be eligible for transfer. Purdue Global does not guarantee transferability of credit. See the University Catalog for the Prior Learning policy.

Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment.

Postsecondary Education Administrator Job Growth and Openings: Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Postsecondary Education Administrators, www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm . National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

Training and Development Specialists and Instructional Coordinators Job Openings: Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Training and Development Specialists, www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/training-and-development-specialists.htm ; Instructional Coordinators, www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/instructional-coordinators.htm . National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

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Best Online Doctor of Education Programs for 2024

Online Doctor of Education programs have become as rigorous as their on-campus counterparts. For many Education Ed.D. candidates, an online degree might even be the smarter choice. Online programs offer flexibility, affordability, access to innovative technologies, students from a diversity of career backgrounds, and global opportunities.

This unranked list appears in alphabetical order.

Showing 1 - 25 of 66 results

Arcadia university - doctor of education in educational leadership (deel), from the school, university of dayton - online doctor of education (ed.d.) in leadership for organizations, vanderbilt university - online doctor of education in leadership and learning in organizations, a.t. still university of health sciences - doctor of education in health professions, abilene christian university - online doctor of education (ed.d.) in organizational leadership program, andrews university - ed.d. in educational leadership, arizona state university - doctor of education (ed.d.) in leadership and innovation, aspen university - doctor of education (ed.d.) in leadership and learning, baylor university - online doctor of education (ed.d.) in learning and organizational change, boise state university - doctor of education in educational technology, boston college - doctor of education (ed.d.) in educational leadership (psap) program, bradley university - online doctor of education-higher education administration program, cabrini university - doctor of education (edd) in organizational learning and leadership online, capella university - doctor of education program, concordia university chicago - ed.d. program in leadership, drexel university - online doctorate in educational leadership and management (ed.d.), edgewood college - doctoral program in educational leadership, florida state university - educational leadership & policy - ed.d. program, fordham university - doctor of education (ed.d.) in educational leadership, administration and policy, grand canyon university - online ed.d. degree: doctor of education, indiana university - online doctor of education in literacy, culture, and language education, johns hopkins school of education - online ed.d. program, kennesaw state university - education doctorate in educational leadership (ed.d.), lamar university - doctor of education in educational leadership, liberty university - online doctor of education (ed.d.) program.

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25 Best Online PhD in Teaching Programs [Doctorate Guide]

A PhD in Teaching dives deeper into the ways in which students learn and the ways in which educators can teach more effectively. You can study to become a specialist in your field and create solutions for educational challenges.

This degree is a beneficial PhD for teachers and other education professionals who want to push the field forward through their research. A PhD can also help you grow your qualifications for leadership roles as well as positions in higher education.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Read on to learn more about this program, including example courses and potential outcomes.

PhD in Teaching Programs Online

A teaching doctorate degree is an advanced program for people with a deep interest in teaching and education. A PhD program in teaching studies the ways in which people learn and the many challenges that face educational school systems.

You could also study an array of courses meant to grow your knowledge of educational systems while gaining hands-on experience in teaching. Common areas of study include:

• Education foundations
• Cognitive and social development
• Instructional design
• Learning and motivational theory

Of course, these are only some of the many subjects PhD students will encounter. A teaching and learning PhD program can help you cultivate your context expertise, your leadership skills, and your ability to make well-reasoned decisions based on data. Upon graduation, PhD students may be qualified to perform high-quality research and mold the next generation of educators.

Positions related to this area of study include:

• K-12 education administrator
• Postsecondary teacher
• Postsecondary education administrator
• Educational researcher
• Instructional coordinator
• Elementary, middle, or high school teacher

Your program’s coursework will help you develop advanced expertise that’s applicable for various positions both in and out of the field of education. A PhD program in teaching will generally require a dissertation component as well.

Common Online PhD in Teaching Concentrations

PhD in Teacher Education programs may offer various concentrations, allowing students to focus their studies and research on a certain aspect of education. Some of these concentrations include:

• Kinesiology. This concentration is designed for professionals who want to research or teach within the field of kinesiology, though this interdisciplinary program could also lead to careers in industry.
• Language, Literacy, Literature, and Culture. This concentration exposes you to various courses in reading, English literature, bilingual education, and multiculturalism.
• Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. This concentration focuses on the principles of child development and emerging research strategies.
• Special Education. This concentration emphasizes culturally responsive teaching methods that are tailored for students with disabilities.
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education. In this concentration, you would study and research informal STEM education, K-16 STEM education, teaching and teacher education, and equity issues in STEM.

These only represent a few of the common concentrations that may be available. It’s helpful to review a prospective program’s concentrations before applying.

Teaching Careers & Salaries

A PhD in Teaching is one of the popular doctorate programs for teachers. You can choose a concentration that aligns with the sector of the field that you’re passionate about, and you can further your expertise and professional qualifications.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are the median wages of common education career paths.

In general, teaching PhD graduates can be found working within community colleges, universities, school districts, nonprofits, and more. Within these fields, graduates may occupy positions as professors, education administrators, top executives, researchers, instructional coordinators, and program directors.

Holding a PhD in Teaching doesn’t guarantee that you’ll qualify for a specific position, as many factors influence the hiring process. But, earning a terminal degree could help you advance your credibility and qualifications in your field.

Teaching PhD Curriculum & Courses

A PhD in Education will expose you to various courses that are meant to prepare you to be a competent researcher or educator. Some of the courses you may encounter include:

• Issues and Trends in Multicultural Education: In this course, you’ll study the theory and practice of multicultural education.
• Introduction to Science of Learning: This course delves into the theoretical traditions and foundations that influence the science of learning.
• Teaching and Teacher Education: This course gives you an overview of subjects like the history of US education, equity issues, and contemporary educational issues, along with how they all relate to historical and social contexts.
• Language Policy and Planning (K-12): In this course, you’ll study subjects like status planning, corpus planning, and prestige planning.
• Theories and Research in Languaging and Language Development: In this course, you’ll be given an overview of languaging and language development.
• Theories and Research in Literacies and Literacy Development: This course explores various topics like the history of literacy, major theories of literacy development, and issues in literacy development.
• Research in Teacher Development and Professionalization Policies: In this course, you’ll study the topics that influence the policy issues that affect teachers.
• Administration and Organizational Behavior II: This course gives you the opportunity to design and execute your own field study project.
• Scholarly Writing: This course is designed to improve your ability to write in a scholarly manner.
• Educational Research Apprenticeship: This course gives you the opportunity to be mentored as you complete your research.

These don’t represent all of the courses that may be available to you. It’s beneficial to review the curriculums of your top schools to see if their listed courses interest you.

Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements for a teaching doctorate degree are likely to vary by school. That said, here are some standard criteria:

• GRE or GMAT scores (only if required)
• Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of intent
• Resume or CV

It’s beneficial to review the specific requirements of your program of choice to ensure that you fulfill the necessary criteria. You can reach out to your prospective school’s admissions office with any application questions.

Accreditation

If you’re planning to earn a Ph.D. in Teaching, then you may want to only consider schools that hold regional accreditation . This accreditation status is given to postsecondary institutions that have been evaluated and found to offer high-quality educational services.

Employers tend to prefer applicants from accredited institutions because they trust the quality of their education. Many positions in higher education also require professionals to have accredited doctorates. In addition, many financial aid opportunities are designated for students who are enrolled at accredited schools.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Many students seek financial aid to help cover the upfront costs of their education. A common source of funding is student loans from the federal government. You can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for federal aid.

You can also consider scholarships or grants. These opportunities are often offered by schools, professional organizations, and private institutions. Some schools also offer fellowships or assistantships to PhD students who qualify. If you’re currently working, you can see if your employer offers a tuition reimbursement program or other forms of tuition benefits.

Do You Need a PhD to Be a Professor?

The requirements for higher education professors vary by institution. There are many factors that may determine whether or not a PhD is required, like subject area or course level. It is typical for full-time professors at four year colleges and universities to hold a PhD or doctorate in their field of study.

Community colleges and vocational schools, on the other hand, often hire postsecondary teachers who have a master’s degree or extensive work experience. Some colleges and universities also hire masters-degree holders for part-time teaching positions.

Can You Get a PhD in Teaching?

Yes, a number of schools offer a PhD in Teaching. This degree path is beneficial for students and professionals who are passionate about the impact of education and about helping people succeed in their academic pursuits.

Should you choose to pursue a PhD in Teaching, your studies could help you develop advanced research skills and gain valuable hands-on experience in teaching. You might study subjects like educational psychology and how it can be applied to different learning environments.

Most teaching PhD programs also offer degree concentrations to let you specialize in a particular sector of the education field.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Teaching and Learning?

Graduates from PhD in Teaching programs may go on to enter a variety of teaching, research, and leadership positions within education. Many education professionals work within K-12 schools, higher education, nonprofit organizations, and other organizations.

PhD graduates who enter into the field of higher education may find themselves working as professors or education administrators in community colleges, specialized professional schools, or universities. Professionals with a PhD in Teaching may also find work as educational researchers or instructional coordinators.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Teaching Online?

A teaching PhD program generally requires between 60 and 90 credit hours. On average, this takes most students anywhere between 3 years and 5 years to complete with full-time study.

A large factor in the duration of your program will depend on the time it takes you to complete your dissertation. You can expect to spend the majority of your education focused on your course load and then a remaining year or so working on your dissertation.

Additionally, much like when completing a Master of Arts in Teaching online program, earning your PhD online could either shorten or lengthen the duration of your program. This could depend on whether you pursue an accelerated track or want a more flexible, slower-paced schedule.

What’s the Difference Between EdD vs. PhD in Teaching Programs?

Here are some of the key differences between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Teaching and a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Teaching.

A PhD focuses more on conducting research, while an EdD focuses more on applying research to the field.

Is a Doctorate Degree in Teaching Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate degree in teaching is worth it for many students. PhD in teaching degrees provide students with an education that is heavily research focused.

Many graduates pursue positions in educational research or educational leadership. A PhD is also a common requirement for teaching positions in higher education. A PhD could also help teachers and other education professionals increase their earning potential and expand their career opportunities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 12% job growth is expected for postsecondary teachers over the next ten years, which is much faster than average. Instructional coordinators and education administrators are all projected to see steady growth over the same period.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Teaching Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Ball State University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies using a blend of online and on-campus attendance models. Concentrations include Curriculum, Educational Technology, and Cultural and Educational Policy Studies. On average, the 91 required credit hours are completed in 4 years of full-time study.

Ball State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University offers a PhD in Education program online and on campus. Common courses include Higher Education and the Law, Funding and Managing Education Enterprises, and Leading Diverse Schools. The program is designed to help prepare for service as leaders in a variety of educational settings. Required coursework may be completed through online and in-person classes.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University offers a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership program online. The program aims to help prepare for entry into roles such as enrollment management, student services, higher education administration, and academic support services. The 60 required credit hours are usually completed in about 5 years.

Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia International University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership. Courses typically teach topics like team building, research methods, educational technology, instructional design, organizational behavior, and student assessment. The 60 credit program usually takes about 36 months to complete when attended full-time.

CIU is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

George Mason University offers a PhD in Education program using a blend of online and traditional in-person learning. Concentrations include Special Education, Education Policy, Literacy, Learning Technologies, and Higher Education. The program requires the completion of 75 credit hours.

George Mason University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Liberty University offers a Ph.D in Education program online. Available specializations include Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Law, Instructional Design and Technology, Organizational Leadership, and Special Education. Classes are typically 8 weeks long each. On average, the 60 required credit hours are completed in about 3 years.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Education. The curriculum aims to develop a solid understanding of educational theory, instructional methods, and research skills. Classes typically start every Monday. The program is commonly completed in 37 months when attending full-time.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Notre Dame of Maryland University offers an online program for a PhD in Higher Education Leadership for Changing Populations.

Potential courses include Education and Policy Analysis, Organization and Governance in Higher Education, and Curriculum Development. The program has no required residency, but comprehensive exams require 1 weekend of on-campus attendance after completion of coursework. Admissions are usually offered on a rolling basis.

Notre Dame of Maryland University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Regent University offers a Ph.D. in Education program online. Specializations include Educational Psychology, Curriculum and Instruction, Higher Education Leadership, and Special Education. The program aims to help prepare for entry into roles such as university professor, superintendent, school administrator, and principal researcher. The program requires the completion of 67 credit hours.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

St. John’s University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Literacy program online. Common courses include Literacy Inquiry, Models and Processes of Reading and Writing Acquisition, and Literacy Leadership. The program is intended for educators who have already completed a master’s degree in the field. The 42 required credits may be completed in as little as 2.5 years.

St. John’s University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas Tech University offers a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction program online. The program is designed to help prepare educators with the knowledge and skills needed to analyze, construct, and evaluate curricula in ways that create optimal learning conditions for all learners. The program requires the completion of 63 credit hours.

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Woman’s University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Leadership, and Organization. Specializations include Superintendency, Higher Education, and Interdisciplinary Nonprofits. On average, the 75 required credits may be completed in 3 years when attending full-time. The program may allow the transfer of up to 37 qualified credits from other accredited institutions.

Texas Woman’s University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University at Albany offers a Ph.D in Curriculum and Instruction program online. Core courses typically include Principles of Instruction, Principles of Curriculum Development, and Foundations of Research in Curriculum and Instruction. Hands-on learning opportunities in the field are commonly offered, and further specializations by subject or student population may be available.

UAlbany is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Arizona offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Education program online. The curriculum aims to teach topics like technology, governance, curriculum design, assessment, and educational diversity. Accelerated classes may be available, which are typically 6 to 9 weeks each and are commonly taken 1 at a time. Up to 30 of the 59 required credits may be transferred from other accredited institutions.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Delaware offers a Ph.D. in Education program. At least 1 academic year must be spent in residence, after which some courses may be offered online. Concentrations include Learning Sciences, Literacy, Mathematics Education, and Sociocultural and Community-Based Approaches. The program requires the completion of 55 credit hours, typically taking 4 to 5 years of full-time study.

The  University of Delaware  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Idaho offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Education program in a hybrid format. Concentrations include Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Adult Learning and Organizational Leadership, Exercise Science, and Special Education. The program tends to be research-oriented and is designed primarily to teach the knowledge and skills needed for research and teaching careers in higher education.

The University of Idaho is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The University of Kentucky offers an online program for a PhD in Educational Leadership. The program aims to teach skills needed for entry into roles such as university faculty member, scholar, research scientist, or education consultant. On average, the 46 required credits may be completed in 4 years when attending classes full-time.

The University of Kentucky is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers an online program for a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Higher Education. Depending on professional goals, the degree may be completed as a Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Education. The curriculum spans 108 credits and classes are usually taught online, though occasional residency attendance may be required.

The University of Nebraska – Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of North Dakota offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Teaching and Leadership. Classes typically meet asynchronously online through lesson modules, virtual libraries, recorded lectures, and online simulations. The courses aim to teach topics like research, teacher development, and curriculum design. The program requires the completion of at least 90 credits while maintaining a 3.0 GPA or higher.

The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

The University of Northern Colorado offers a PhD in Special Education program online. Potential courses include Theories of Exceptionalities, Preparing Teachers for Students with Exceptionalities, and Advanced Research Methods. The program requires the completion of 77 credit hours, and up to 21 approved credits from other accredited institutions may be transferred in.

The University of Northern Colorado is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of San Diego offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Justice Education. Potential courses include Critical Social Theory and Education, Educational Research and Methods, History of Education for Social Justice, and Education and Globalization. On average, degree requirements are completed in 4 to 5 years of full-time study.

USD is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

The University of Tennessee–Knoxville offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology and Research for Adult and Continuing Education. Classes typically teach key concepts like qualitative research, teaching methodology, adult learning, professional writing, and psychological, social, and physical development. Admissions are typically offered for the fall and spring terms. The curriculum consists of 85 credit hours.

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Toledo offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction. Classes may meet asynchronously online or on-campus in the evening. Concentrations include Educational Technology, Early Childhood, or Special Education. Potential courses include Trends in Literacy Acquisition, Discourse in Instruction, and Language and Concept Development in Early Childhood.

The University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Wyoming offers a PhD in Education in a hybrid format. Further specializations are commonly available in Literacy, Curriculum, Mathematics, and Science Education. The program requires the completion of 80 credit hours and commonly utilizes a hybrid learning model of both online and in-person class offerings. At least 1 semester must be completed on-campus.

The University of Wyoming is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University offers a Ph.D. in Education program online. Concentrations include Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Technology, Early Childhood Advocacy, Organizational Research, and Literacy. The program aims to provide the skills needed for teaching and leadership roles in settings like schools, district offices, universities, community colleges, research institutions, and non-profit organizations.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Earning Your PhD in Teaching Online

Earning a teaching PhD online could be beneficial for those who want to become educational leaders, researchers, and postsecondary teachers. K-12 teachers may also pursue online degrees in education to expand their expertise and earning potential.

With a PhD, you could drive the field forward through hands-on work with students or behind-the-scenes work as a researcher or an administrator. Whether it be as an elementary school teacher, an instructional coordinator, or the dean of a college, your knowledge and expertise could be fundamental to shaping the lives of others.

You could begin researching accredited universities today to discover which online PhD programs in teaching and learning best match your personal interests and professional goals.

2024 Best Online PhD in Teaching Programs

An online PhD in Teaching allows you the opportunity to develop your expertise in the education industry.

A PhD program can help put you on the path toward pursuing senior leadership positions in academia. In addition, PhD graduates often qualify for careers in research as well as postsecondary teaching.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

By pursuing a Ph.D in Education online, you can receive advanced training for this impactful and rewarding field.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Teaching Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Ball State University

Ball State University offers a PhD in Educational Studies. Students may choose between 3 specializations: Curriculum, Educational Technology, or Cultural and Educational Policy.

The program requires 91 credits to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and should submit GRE scores, 3 letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University

Capella University offers a PhD in Education with 5 specializations, including Special Education Leadership and Leadership for Higher Education. The requirements to graduate differ for each specialization. Some require internships, while others require dissertations. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Capella also offers an online EdD in Curriculum and Instruction .

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a PhD in Education and Human Resources with a Higher Education Leadership specialization.

Students must complete 60 credits, 2 comprehensive exams, and a dissertation and have a juried publication or presentation to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and 2 years of relevant work experience.

Colorado State  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia International University

Columbia International University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership. The program requires 60 credits to graduate and can usually be finished within 4 years. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.2 and need to submit 2 references, a letter of evaluation, and an academic writing sample.

CIU  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University—Chicago offers online education degree programs leading to a PhD. Options include a Principal Preparation program and an Educational Leadership program.

Each program can typically be completed in 4 years, with 61 to 67 credits required to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE scores, and 2 years of teaching experience. Concordia University Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana State University

Indiana State University offers an online program for a PhD in Educational Administration with a specialization in Higher Education Leadership.

To graduate, students must complete 63 credit hours, including 18 dedicated towards a dissertation. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a grade of B+ or higher. Official transcripts, GRE scores, and 3 letters of recommendation must be submitted when applying.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Johns Hopkins University

John Hopkins University offers an online Doctor of Education program. The program is completed part-time and usually takes 3 to 7 years to finish. A total of 90 credits are needed to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, a personal statement, and 3 letters of recommendation.

Johns Hopkins University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online PhD in Education program. Students may choose to add one of 5 specializations to their degree, including Educational Law or Curriculum and Instruction. Each course lasts for 8 weeks. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and need to submit all official college transcripts to be eligible for the program.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

National University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Education. Students must obtain 60 credit hours to graduate.

The program can be started at any time and usually takes 37 months to complete. Those interested in the program must complete an online application and submit official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership.

Students must complete 41 credits, which can be added to 30 obtained from a qualifying Ed.S degree, to graduate. Applicants must have an Ed.S degree with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. An interview with the doctoral program director and 2 references are also required.

NNU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Notre Dame of Maryland University

Notre Dame of Maryland University offers a PhD in Higher Education Leadership for Changing Populations. Students must complete 51 credits, including 12 dedicated to a dissertation, to graduate. Applicants must complete an online application and provide official transcripts, 2 letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and GRE scores.

Notre Dame of Maryland University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers an online PhD in Educational Leadership program. Students must complete 33 credit hours and 120 internship hours to graduate.

Applicants must be currently employed by a school district and have 3 years of experience to be eligible for the program. Official transcripts, an essay, and 3 references must be submitted when applying.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regent University

Regent University offers an online PhD in Education program. It requires students to complete 67 credit hours and a dissertation to graduate. Students may choose one of 11 different concentrations to add to the degree, including Adult Education and Educational Psychology. Applicants must submit an academic writing sample and transcripts.

Regent University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction. Applicants must submit transcripts and test scores to be eligible for the program.

Specializations that can be pursued in this program include Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education, Language, Diversity, and Literacy Studies, and STEM. Each specialization requires students to obtain 63 credit hours to graduate.

Texas Tech University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers an online Doctorate in Education program. To graduate, students must complete 59 credits, with 11 dedicated to either a capstone project or dissertation, and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Courses last for 6 to 9 weeks. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

The University of Arizona  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership.

The program requires the completion of 42 credit hours and a dissertation and can usually be completed in 3 years. Classes are held in cohorts. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a writing sample, 3 letters of recommendation, and a copy of their teaching or administrator’s license.

The University of Arkansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Idaho

The University of Idaho offers a Doctor of Education and a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction. Students may choose to add one of nine specializations to their degree, including Exercise Science or Career and Technical Education. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, 3 letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.

The  University of Idaho  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

University of Nebraska

The University of Nebraska offers an online PhD in Educational Studies program. Students must complete 108 credits, including the credits earned from a master’s degree.

At least 45 semester hours must be obtained from the University of Nebraska. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE scores, and 3 letters or recommendation.

The  University of Nebraska  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Toledo

The University of Toledo offers an online program for a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Special Education.

Students must complete 60 credit hours and an internship to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.25 in previous graduate work, 3 letters of recommendation, and 2 years of teaching experience.

The  University of Toledo  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University

Walden University offers an online program for a PhD in Education with 11 different specializations. Specialization options include Early Childhood Special Education and Reading, Literacy, Assessment, and Evaluation.

Up to 45 qualifying credits can be transferred into the program from other schools, work experience, or examinations. Applicants must submit an online application with official transcripts and previous employment history.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Teaching Programs

Online PhD programs in education can open up opportunities for senior leadership positions in academia. A PhD degree path focuses primarily on research.

Leadership roles in academia include:

• College president
• Chief learning officer
• Senior academic administrator
• Academic dean

Though courses vary from school to school, you’ll likely find yourself learning about the following topics:

• Educational pedagogy
• Leadership in education
• Advanced educational psychology
• Advanced curriculum study

You may also find yourself immersed in research projects. These projects are catered to your concerns or interests in the educational industry, demonstrating your commitment to positive change. Many programs also require examinations or dissertations. It’s strategic to look at the program requirements for each school that interests you.

If you wish to advance your teaching career or use your educational experience in a meaningful way, an online doctorate in education offers meaningful coursework to enhance your training and skill set.

Specializations

When pursuing an online PhD in Education, you have the opportunity to focus on a specialization that best aligns with your interests and career goals. Here are some common specializations:

• Higher Education Leadership : This specializations helps you develop the necessary skills to take on administrative roles in higher education and in government institutions.
• Curriculum and Instruction : This specialization focuses on the research, development, and implementation of impactful curriculum changes. By studying statistics of student achievement and recognizing where gaps need to be filled, you may impact curriculum development.
• Organizational Leadership : This specialization helps prepare you for leadership roles within an educational institution. You can learn how to prepare strategic development ideas for your organization and also how to aid in employees’ professional development.
• Special Education : This specialization focuses on the individual needs of a unique population of an educational organization. You can learn to create accommodating environments and instruction for these high-need students, and you can learn to better understand students’ differences, disabilities, and gifts.
• K-12 Education : With a focus on primary and secondary education, a K-12 education specialization allows you to advance your leadership and administrative skills in order to oversee educational institutions.

These specializations are extremely diverse. Your previous educational experience and long-term professional goals can help you determine which path is best for you.

Teaching & Education Careers & Salaries

Ph.D programs in education can lead to a vast range of career paths, depending on your interests and long-term goals. What degree you need to be a teacher at the K-12 level is a bachelor’s, earning a PhD can help you qualify for positions in research and postsecondary institutions as well.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , employment for education, training, and library occupations is projected to grow 5% in the next ten years.

The majority of these roles require extensive research and administrative skills. Many of these careers can be found in postsecondary or government educational institutions. In regards to the salary for postsecondary teachers, the average pay can vary depending on the subject taught.

How to Choose an Online Doctoral Program in Education

Here are a few factors you may consider when you’re selecting which online doctoral programs to pursue:

• Program length . Perhaps you have a few years to dedicate to this program, or maybe you wish to finish more quickly in order to advance your career. This is a factor to look into when making your selection.
• Your schedule . Do you have the time available to dedicate yourself to a full-time course load? Perhaps you wish to continue working while you take a part-time course load. It’s helpful to select a program that adapts to your life.
• Specialization focus . Do your prospective schools offer the specialization that aligns with your career goals?
• Accreditation . It’s important for a program to be from an accredited institution.
• Credit transfers . Schools can have varying credit transfer policies. Enrolling in a program that allows you to transfer your credits may be beneficial in the long run.

In addition, it’s strategic to check admission requirements to ensure that you meet or exceed the basic requirements of your potential school. You can also inquire as to whether an internship or residency placement can work toward your course credits.

Education Doctorate Curriculum

The degree specialization you choose can radically change the courses you find yourself in. Here are a few basic courses you may encounter when pursuing doctorate degrees in education:

•   Educational Pedagogy : This course is the study of all the different aspects of teaching and teaching methods. You reflect on teaching, consider how it is constructed, collaborate to improve it, and develop plans to integrate these new methods.
• Leadership in Education : You’ll learn the necessary skills and characteristics for management roles in educational institutions. You’ll research leadership in the context of education and learn the necessary skills to implement toward the development of schools.
• Advanced Educational Psychology : This course focuses on the analysis of classroom strategies used to help students succeed. It looks at psychological theories and learning research and seeks to use inquiry-based practice to solve instructional and administrative problems.
• Advanced Curriculum Study : Looking at the principles of curriculum development and implementation, you’ll learn to research and study data on how to improve curriculum for student success. This course also seeks to help you better understand how to administer curriculum and program design improvements to your professional team.
• Gifted and Special Education : Looking at the needs and differentiation required by students in a high-needs population, you’ll develop the necessary skills to become leaders in the special education department.
• Teaching Adult Populations : Teaching students of the adult population differs in both planning and approach. If you wish to pursue professor roles in postsecondary institutions, the skills and management learned in this course can be beneficial.
• Advanced Educational Research Practices : In order to become highly skilled in research specific to the education industry, you’ll learn the foundational basics for studying data, analyzing statistics, and conducting effective studies.
• Problems and Issues in Education : This is a beginner’s course to help you understand the basic needs and struggles of both curriculum and teaching in all educational industries. You’ll learn the necessary methods to formulate questions and inquiry-based studies to help improve education.
• Instruction Technology and Methodology : You’ll learn how to implement and facilitate technology-based teaching to enrich the learning experience. There is a focus on how to modernize and improve education through technology as well.
• Administration : If you’re looking to take on a leadership or administration role, you may benefit from the management skills and organizational strategies developed through this course.

This is only a sample of what courses you may encounter as you pursue your degree. Most PhD programs also include a dissertation requirement.

Admissions Requirements

Schools that offer an online PhD in Teaching program can have varying admission requirements. It’s beneficial to look into each of your prospective school’s requirements. Here are some common criteria you may encounter when you’re looking to apply:

• Bachelor and masters degree in a relevant subject, or completion of combined masters and teaching credential programs
• Official college transcripts
• Resume or CV
• Letter of intent

Some schools may request a GME or GMAT score for graduate admissions, but a number of schools no longer require this in their admissions process.

Accreditation

Regional accreditation of a school and program is an essential factor to look for. Regional accreditation ensures that the school is up to educational standards and that your degree will be recognized across the United States.

Accreditation is often a requirement for credits to be eligible for transfer as well. A school’s accreditation status affirms that its standards are of high academic quality and accountability, according to the expectations established by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) .

You can also check CHEA’s database of accredited institutions to make sure that the school you’re interested in is listed.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Most students who pursue an online PhD in Teaching already have experience in the education industry. If you’ll be looking for financial aid for your doctoral journey, you may want to start by asking your organization if they offer sabbaticals or scholarships.

There are also numerous scholarships available for students pursuing degrees in education, so you may be able to find and apply to these scholarships if you qualify.

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is another place to start when seeking financial aid. Some schools set deadlines for how long they’ll accept FAFSA applications, so it’s necessary to apply prior to this deadline. The FAFSA determines your eligibility for financial aid provided by the federal and state governments.

Education Professional Organizations

Professional organizations are not mandatory, but they can offer you unique professional support and numerous professional growth opportunities.

Here are a few education professional organizations you may want to consider joining:

• American Association of School Administrators (AASA)
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)
• National Education Association (NEA)

A professional organization allows you to be part of a connected support network, to have access to free resources, and to be informed about conferences and workshops that can benefit your growth in the industry.

What Is an EdD?

Doctor of Education (EdD) is a professional degree for those looking to take on leadership roles in the education industry. This type of degree is catered for experienced educators who are looking to find career growth or make impactful change in their organization.

An Ed.D. is primarily practice-based and involves collecting and analyzing data in order to implement new strategies in K-12 organizations. It’s a strategic path for educators seeking administrative roles in student and organizational success.

What Is a PhD in Education?

A PhD in Education is a degree that helps qualify you to pursue a role in academia and research at a postsecondary level.

It’s a very research-heavy, theoretical-based program that helps equip students to become leaders in the education industry. The work or research a PhD graduate does may impact the work an EdD graduate implements in their administrative role.

A PhD in Education is strategic if you want to work in academia as a postsecondary professor and pursue tenure.  A PhD is also beneficial if you want to focus on research.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Teaching?

There are numerous roles in academia, research, or administration that you may pursue with a PhD in Teaching.

Common careers in this field include postsecondary professor, postsecondary or senior academic administrator, chief learning officer, college president, academic dean, and educational research analyst.

Academic dean positions may be limited per institution, but administrators, professors, and learning officers continue to be needed as more students enter universities and postsecondary institutions.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Teaching?

A PhD generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete. The length of a program can depend on the number of credit hours required as well as how long it takes you to complete your dissertation.

If no dissertation is required, a doctoral program can generally be completed in 3 years with full-time study. If you take a part-time course load or work while pursuing your degree, you can expect your timeframe to be extended.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Teaching?

Although tuition varies, you can expect to pay between $350 to $800 per credit hour when pursuing a teaching PhD.

A typical program requires around 90 credits, which means that tuition may range from $31,500 to over $72,000, depending on the school and program requirements. There are also additional fees to consider, such as textbooks, workshops, conferences, or additional certification programs that you may encounter while pursuing your degree.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD vs. Doctorate in Education?

Though they are both doctoral degrees, there are a few differences between a PhD and a professional doctorate in education.

It can help to think of your long-term career goals when deciding between online doctoral degrees in education.

What’s the Difference Between an EdD vs. PhD in Education?

There are quite a few key differences between a Doctor of Education (EdD) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education.

Time and cost can be important factors to consider when deciding between these two degrees.

Is a PhD in Teaching Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Teaching is worth it for many professionals. This terminal degree may lead to impactful work in the industry of education. It can help you develop the necessary skills to obtain work in research as well as academia. Graduates tend to go on to become teachers or administrators in the education field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth for education, training, and library occupations. Employment for those working in postsecondary education administration is expected to grow 4%. Postsecondary teachers are expected to experience 9% job growth.

Getting Your PhD in Teaching Online

If you wish to be immersed in the research that helps define changes in education on a national level, then you may want to consider getting your PhD in Teaching online.

Many online teaching degree programs , including both online doctorate and online masters programs in teaching , offer you the flexibility to work around your schedule and lifestyle while you advance your skill set and work toward your career goals in academia.

With your advanced training, you may find yourself taking part in the future of education. If you’re ready to begin your terminal degree, you can start by comparing accredited online doctoral teaching programs to find the one that best suits your schedule and professional goals.

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Teaching, learning, and teacher education, doctor of philosophy (ph.d.), you are here, a doctoral program preparing education researchers, teacher educators, curriculum specialists, and instructional leaders..

The Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education focuses on the preparation of researchers and teacher educators in universities and colleges. Focal areas include teaching and learning, research and practice in teacher education, mathematics education, science education, and the study of urban education and urban contexts. 

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

The Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education focuses on the preparation of researchers in education. The program includes formal courses, mentored research, and informal seminars.  The program is designed to draw together coursework, research apprenticeship, and other professional academic activities to build a complete professional program that is tailored to your interests and needs.

Fall: 3; Spring: 3

Culminating experience Dissertation

Coursework and research experiences address a range of practice-based and theoretical problems in schools and community settings from sociopolitical, cultural, philosophical, psychological, and historical perspectives. Taking an interdisciplinary stance, faculty and students explore issues of equity, social justice, and educational change in a range of formal and informal educational settings. You will build a program of study that includes courses in teaching and learning, social foundations, and research methods.  Applicants interested in the focal area of literacy are encouraged to consider the doctoral program in Literacy Studies .

Field-based research and collaborative projects with practitioners in schools or other educational settings are key components of the program. The program is designed to draw together coursework, research apprenticeship, and other professional academic activities to build a complete professional program that is tailored to your interests and needs.

As a full-time Ph.D. student, you are expected to be in residence and participate in practicum activities, courses, and other academic experiences throughout the first two years, where you will be enrolled in 3 course units per semester. Coursework and experiences are arranged around three areas or strands, including specialization courses, research methods courses, and electives/professional experiences, as well as a set of core courses. For more information about courses and requirements, visit the  Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ph.D. program in the University Catalog .

Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC)

The RAC is part of the Professional Experiences strand and is designed to assist you in developing, conducting, and presenting your own original research. The course focuses on the research interests of the students and requires participation in the scheduling of activities, presentations, and directing part of the RAC agenda as it pertains to the collective needs of the group. Students from the different stages of the doctoral program will serve as mentors to one another, with faculty oversight. You will participate in the RAC beginning in the spring of your first year and continue participation until the completion of your dissertation.

Annual Self-Evaluation : Each year, doctoral students complete a Professional Self-Evaluation that is used as part of the ongoing evaluation and planning process. You are introduced to the evaluation form in the proseminar and will work on it in the spring Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC). The deadline for the Professional Self-evaluation falls in mid-autumn or mid-spring.

Qualifying Examination : The Qualifying Examination is taken by all doctoral students, most often at the end of the first year. Passing this exam is an important step in being admitted to program candidacy. In order to take the qualifying exam, you need to have completed the Doctoral Proseminar, Doctoral Foundations of Teaching and Learning, Education, Culture, and Society, 1 RAC, and 1 research methods course.

Program Candidacy : You are assessed for program candidacy after successfully completing the  Doctoral Proseminar, Doctoral Foundations of Teaching and Learning, Education, Culture, and Society, 1 RAC, and 1 research methods course, and passing the Qualifying Examination. You must be in good academic standing to receive program candidacy.

Preliminary Examination : The Preliminary Examination is taken after you have completed all courses and before you begin work on your dissertation. Passing the Preliminary Exam allows you to be admitted to doctoral candidacy. You may submit a Preliminary Exam from the start of the fall semester through April 1. A description of the Preliminary Exam is available from the Division Coordinator. 

Dissertation : To complete the Ph.D., you must design and undertake an original research study under the direction of your dissertation committee. Students should see Penn GSE and Penn-wide policies and speak with their advisor about the requirements of the dissertation.

Our Faculty

Affiliated Faculty

Ryan S. Baker Professor Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon University

Bodong Chen Associate Professor Ph.D., University of Toronto

Matthew Duvall Lecturer Ph.D., Drexel University

L. Michael Golden Executive Director, Catalyst @ Penn GSE Ed.D., University of Pennsylvania

Zachary Herrmann Adjunct Assistant Professor Ed.L.D., Harvard University

Charlotte E. Jacobs Director, Independent School Teaching Residency Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

Michael C. Johanek Senior Fellow Ed.D., Teachers College, Columbia University

Yasmin B. Kafai Lori and Michael Milken President’s Distinguished Professor Ed.D., Harvard University

Andrea M. Kane Professor of Practice, Education Leadership Ph.D., Northcentral University

Rand Quinn Associate Professor Ph.D., Stanford University

Sharon M. Ravitch Professor of Practice Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

Susan A. Yoon Graduate School of Education Presidential Professor Ph.D., University of Toronto

"Penn taught me, Penn GSE especially, that if you have the right combination of ingredients—commitment from the structure, mentors, and colleagues—then risk-taking, innovation, and progress will for sure ignite."

Justice Toshiba Walker

Our graduates.

Our graduates are prepared for research and academic careers in education, psychology, and related human services fields.

Alumni Careers

• Adjunct Professor, Moore College of Art and Design
• Assistant Professor of Special Education, Villanova University
• Assistant Professor, Montclair State University
• Assistant Professor, Utah State University
• Director, Out of School Time Resource Center
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Temple University

Admissions & Financial Aid

Please visit our Admissions and Financial Aid pages for specific information on the application requirements , as well as information on tuition, fees, financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

Graduate School of Education University of Pennsylvania 3700 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 898-6415 [email protected] [email protected]

Noemí Fernández Program Manager [email protected]

Please view information from our Admissions and Financial Aid Office for specific information on the cost of this program.

All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

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Collaboratory for Teacher Education

The Collaboratory for Teacher Education at Penn GSE is a laboratory for the design, implementation, and study of experimental approaches to teacher education.

Core Practice Consortium

The Core Practice Consortium brings together teacher educators from across institutions, disciplines, and theoretical perspectives to grapple with questions about how better to prepare novice teachers. 

Our Students

Current students in the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education program are researching a range of topics including mathematical practices, teacher education, maker-based project education, culturally responsive pedagogy, science education, and media making. 

View Doctoral Student Profiles

You May Be Interested In

Related programs.

• Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D.
• Reading/Writing/Literacy Ph.D.
• Reading/Writing/Literacy Ed.D.
• Learning Sciences and Technologies M.S.Ed.
• Teaching, Learning, and Leadership M.S.Ed.
• Education, Culture, and Society Ph.D.

Related Topics

Education Leadership (online)

Graduate Program

The Master’s in Education (Ed.M.) prepares students with the skills needed to change the world through education. The online Master’s in Education Leadership is a part-time, two-year Ed.M. program from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways. The program is specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. Through this program, students will strengthen the invaluable skills they’ve already developed and develop the tools to propel themselves to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

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Online Teaching Degree Master's Program

Earn Your Master's in Online Teaching

• $637/credit (36 credits total)
• Transfer up to 12 graduate credits
• Learn how to teach online
• Complete in as few as 15 months
• No GRE/GMAT required
• Address the needs of remote/hybrid student populations

Online Teaching Degree Concentration Overview

The 2020 pandemic changed the teaching world for educators. Teachers once accustomed to commanding classrooms full of students found themselves upended, transitioned into virtual and hybrid settings as a result of quarantines and stay-at-home orders.

Educators made the transition on the fly, often with little to no training or guidance.

"When remote learning was implemented in schools for many educators, they were thrust into the realm of online teaching without any warning and had to learn by doing," said Dr. Daniel Tanguay , senior associate dean of education at Southern New Hampshire University. "As such, many educators became incredibly frustrated and overwhelmed by the process, and though time has progressed, some educators still feel lost and discouraged in their ability to thoroughly meet their students' needs."

And that's why SNHU developed the Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum & Instruction with a concentration in Online Teaching .

With this specialized master's degree, you can develop the necessary knowledge for online teaching. You'll gain skills pertaining to differentiation, student engagement, individualized feedback, learning management systems (LMS), and the development of age- and grade-level appropriate content. 

Licensure Information

The online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction degree program does not lead to licensure. SNHU also offers online post-licensure Master of Education (MEd) programs for currently licensed individuals who are interested in furthering their professional development and enhancing their credentials.

However, since state requirements for adding endorsements vary greatly, SNHU does not guarantee that the completion of those programs will result in rank, endorsements, and/or salary increases and strongly encourages interested individuals to contact their state licensure board prior to enrolling.

SNHU provides additional information for education programs on our Licensure and Certification Disclosures page .

.st0{fill:#21386D;} What You'll Learn

• Curriculum development
• Assessment design
• Research-based teaching strategies
• Cultural competency
• Inclusive teaching techniques
• Data and technology for education

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } How You'll Learn

At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.

Career Outlook

As teachers and schools get deeper into online learning, they'll find that technology will have some permanence in their classrooms.

Because online teaching should become a reality for most teachers, it's crucial to be prepared for it – and even take the lead within your school. 

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } Job Growth

Instructional coordinators –  including training and library roles – are expected to increase 2% through 2032 . 1

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } Salary

The median annual salary was $66,490 for instructional coordinators in 2022. 1

Understanding the Numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

And as more school districts seek out master's-educated teachers, developing straightforward curriculum and instruction skills actually goes hand in hand with online education integration.

"This MEd program is a much-needed program that is truly ahead of its time," Simmons said. "COVID-19 has shown us that online education provides the versatility to remove the barriers that traditional face-to-face learning has."

"Though the pandemic has only increased this need, based on where online teaching was progressing beforehand, I do not see this need for educator development ending once the current pandemic has ended," said Dr. Daniel Tanguay , senior associate dean of education at SNHU.

"Educators need to develop the knowledge, skills and abilities to develop a culturally responsive, data-informed, student-centered curriculum that addresses all the diverse learning needs of students," said Tanguay.

Where Could You Work?

Elementary schools.

Instruct young learners in basic subjects, leveraging support structures for online learning.

Charter Schools

Create and deliver hybrid-format instructional lessons that meet both curriculum requirements and the mission of the charter school.

Middle & High Schools

Create engaging online curriculum for active learning to support students for state testing and college prep.

Start Your Journey Toward an Online Teaching Degree

Why snhu for your online teaching degree flexible with no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7. affordable as part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. in fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. prior coursework and work experience could also help you save time and money. snhu’s transfer policy  allows you to transfer up to 12 credits from your previous institution. you could also earn college credit for previous work experience . respected founded in 1932 , southern new hampshire university is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. snhu is accredited by the new england commission of higher education (neche), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.  recently, snhu has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education: “most innovative” regional university honors from u.s. news & world report each year since 2015 a $1 million grant from google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth recognition as a 2017 digital learning innovator by the online learning consortium network at southern new hampshire university, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities. 93.2% of online students would recommend snhu according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents. discover why snhu may be right for you . admission requirements expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. that’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials: completed free application undergraduate transcripts, which we can retrieve for you by submitting a transcript request form acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 5 graduate terms . other med admission requirements include: a resume that includes at least 6 months of relevant k-12 instructional or curriculum development experience filling out our med non-licensure acknowledgment form how to apply if you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going: complete free graduate application submit undergraduate transcripts work with an admission counselor  to explore financial options  and walk through application process your counselor can also walk you through the application process, which involves completing a graduate application, providing undergraduate transcripts and your resume and filling out the med non-licensure acknowledgement form. if (typeof accordiongroup === "undefined") { window.accordiongroup = new accordion(); } accordiongroup.init(document.getelementbyid('bf46543d396c428db03e3a4c72bd55dd')); ready for the future.

Dr. Kelly Hoban, adjunct instructor

"The need for skilled online educators is going to continue to grow, and we need educators to be ahead of the curve, ready with the knowledge and skills to take on those roles."

Courses & Curriculum

When you enroll in Southern New Hampshire University's online teaching master's program, you can gain an advantage as a leader in both the traditional and virtual classroom.

This 12-course (36-credit) program consists of 9 core courses – required of all online MEd  in Curriculum and Instruction students, no matter the concentration – and 3 classes in the concentration.

Courses in the concentration may include:

• Technology in Online Education: Gain the skills needed to select new and innovative ways of approaching instruction. Create learning activities that leverage teaching strategies and technology tools to provide experiences that meet the needs of students in an online environment.
• Strategies in Online Instruction: Analyze and apply strategies for student engagement, differentiation, instructional delivery methods and feedback. Learn how online instructional strategies can benefit all students, including diverse populations.
• Methods of Online Instruction: Apply instructional strategies and pedagogical practices into lesson planning in support of engagement and learning. Create lessons and explore how to build them in a learning management system (LMS).

The core will prepare you to become a leader in your field. You'll learn to apply local, state and national standards in designing learning experiences that are relevant, outcome-driven and culturally inclusive for all ages, education levels and learning environments.

You'll be prepared to implement positive change within your learning community by inspiring students and by serving as role models and support systems for colleagues.

Plus, the courses throughout the core weave educational technology in both learning and instruction throughout all the courses. It's actually expected that you integrate technologies and applications into your curriculum designs.

"Focus [is] placed on understanding the importance and influence of teacher leadership, the creation of data-informed curriculum, and the integration of technology within the learning experience," said Dr. Daniel Tanguay , senior associate dean of education.

Four of your core courses focus specifically on curriculum design. Explore the foundational design theories and principles in various learning environments, and then build upon that foundation by implementing Differentiated Instruction (DI) strategies to meet the needs of unique subsets of learners. From there, you'll explore assessment theories and, finally, dive into emerging theory and design.

Complete your core courses in the MEd in Curriculum and Instruction program with an online seminar and a capstone – giving you the opportunity to showcase your work to future employers.

In your seminar, you'll finalize your portfolio, which will include your educational philosophy statement. You'll also draft a curriculum proposal that addresses a self-identified achievement gap.

And in your capstone, you'll need to demonstrate your mastery of knowledge and skills. Develop a complete curriculum in an area of interest, along with your portfolio, to show your growth as an educational leader.

In addition to the core courses, you'll also take the 3 courses that make up the online teaching degree concentration. When the 2020 pandemic struck, it became even more crucial for teachers to learn how to transfer their skills online.

This concentration specifically addresses any gaps you may have in terms of addressing the unique and newly discovered needs of students in remote and hybrid learning environments.

Tanguay explains that in many cases, when educators complete a teacher prep program, they are not fully exposed to instructional strategies focused on developing curriculum and instruction within the hybrid learning environment.

"With that in mind, the MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Online Teaching provides these educators, as well as others, the opportunities to revise and bolster their existing knowledge and skills in the hybrid learning environments to better meet the needs of their students," he said.

"These courses were created with the input of educators who work in virtual learning environments and with an eye on the future need for educators prepared for the unique challenges of online teaching and learning," adds Dr. Kelly Hoban , an adjunct instructor at SNHU and an online high school teacher.

Tanguay agrees.

"The immersed experience educators receive in this concentration, through the development of their own content in a fully functioning learning management system (LMS), helps ensure a sustainable learning experience," he said.

If you're unsure whether you want to pursue a concentration in online teaching, the MEd in Curriculum & Instruction program also has 5 other concentrations : dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities, educational leadership, reading, special education and technology integration.

Minimum Hardware Requirements Component Type   PC (Windows OS)   Apple (Mac OS)   Operating System  Currently supported operating system from Microsoft.   Currently supported operating system from Apple.  Memory (RAM)  8GB or higher  8GB or higher  Hard Drive  100GB or higher  100GB or higher  Antivirus Software  Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.  Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.  SNHU Purchase Programs  Visit Dell   Visit Apple   Internet/ Bandwidth  5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency  5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency  Notes:   Laptop or desktop?   Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.  Note:   Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.  Office 365 Pro Plus  is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for  Microsoft 365 plans  for business, education and government.  Antivirus software:  Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.  if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('f756dce5bd874c61855f6f6e92d88470')); University Accreditation

Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates for SNHU's online degree programs are among the lowest in the nation. We offer a 25% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.

Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional Costs: Course Materials ($ varies by course). Foundational courses may be required based on your undergraduate course history, which may result in additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Time Management Strategies: 8 Tips for Balancing College and Life

What is a Terminal Degree?

What is an MEd Degree?

Online marketing for beginners: 10 paid and free courses to start with

In today’s digital marketplace, personalization is king. Hubspot’s The State of Marketing 2024 report underscores this, revealing that 75% of marketers credit personalized experiences with boosting sales and customer loyalty. This strategic focus is reshaping companies’ online narratives, directly influencing a return on investment (ROI) and growth trajectories.

The digital realm demands a deep understanding of consumer behavior, market trends, and keeping up with technological trends and advancements. For those carving out a career in digital or online marketing, you’re in an era where science meets creativity. 

UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA

Dr. Jonah Berger, a Wharton School professor at the University of Pennsylvania and bestselling author of books like Magic Words and The Catalyst , views the right digital marketing course as a critical piece in the puzzle of success.

“If you already have your product, a class can teach you how to get it to the right customers,” he asserts. Berger emphasizes the versatility of digital marketing education, noting that it can guide entrepreneurs in everything from product design to startup selection.

He advises prospective students to first identify their needs and desired outcomes before choosing a course. “The more that courses help you address a particular tactical need you have, the better off you’re going to be,” he explains. He encourages focusing on “modern marketing” trends such as customer centricity, highlighting the shift towards prioritizing the customer’s perspective over the product or service.

For Berger, truly successful digital marketing lies in “the marriage of data science and behavioral science.” He stresses the importance of understanding customer decision-making while leveraging data for deeper insights. This approach is paramount in a landscape dominated by search engines, social media, and omni-channel marketing strategies.

For those interested in working in the online marketing industry, taking a course can be an effective way to build a solid foundation. Fortune compiled a list of both free and paid online marketing courses you can take on your home computer to help you add the skill to your digital toolbox. 

5 free online marketing courses

Enrolling in a free course can give you the necessary skills to get started without breaking the bank. These five free online courses teach digital marketing at an introductory level. Each varies on program length but offers generalized coursework. The list is in alphabetical order.

1. CareerFoundry: Digital Marketing Program

This one is for people who don’t have a lot of time but still want to dip their toes in the digital marketing waters. To figure out if digital marketing is right for you, CareerFoundry can send you a free five-day short course to your email inbox. Each lesson takes around 15 minutes, offering barebones instruction to the world of digital marketing and making a career change. It’s worth noting that the content you receive is the beginning lessons of a much more robust, four to seven-month long, $6,900 immersive, should you want to opt for the paid version. 

2. Google: Fundamentals of Digital Marketing

This 40-hour course, offered by one of the most popular search engine companies, teaches digital marketing at an entry-level . The 24-module class, accredited by the Interactive Advertising Bureau Europe and The Open University, contains hands-on exercises.

Tutorials include topics like making it easy to find a business on the internet and reaching customers through email and video. After passing each tutorial, the course offers one final assessment, and after taking and passing that, you will receive a sharable award to add to your LinkedIn profile.

3. Meta: Blueprint

Facebook’s parent company, Meta, offers 36 free courses in its Blueprint program . The program aims to give learners fast, self-guided digital marketing walkthroughs and training on sites like Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Topics range from bringing your business online and establishing marketing goals to attracting an audience and making creative Instagram Stories. 

4. Simplilearn: Digital Marketing Strategy

This free course by Simplilearn consists of seven main modules, each containing a self-paced string of video lessons. It aims to provide learners with an introduction to the digital marketing landscape. 

In two hours, you will learn about customer segmentation and persona, plus you’ll learn how to conduct market research and create a marketing calendar. After each chapter, there is a knowledge check, and after completing the class, you will receive a certificate of completion. According to the site, more than 25,000 people have enrolled in this course.

5. Udemy: Marketing on Instagram 

This introductory course from Three Sixty Academy , offered on the Udemy platform, teaches learners the fundamentals of Instagram marketing and how to increase your follower base and maximize ROI. The course consists of nine tutorials over the course of 40 minutes. According to the site, more than 30,000 students have enrolled in this course. 

5 paid online marketing courses

Taking paid courses can be an effective way to learn marketing concepts and practical applications. By paying for a course, you can access comprehensive content and detailed explanations in a structured learning environment. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and improve your skills. Courses are listed in alphabetical order.

1. Coursera: Introduction to Digital Marketing

Coursera has a beginner-level course that lasts for around nine hours and is taught by Steve Fritzenkotter, a continuing education instructor from the University of California, Irvine. The course covers everything from search engine marketing and two-way communication with customers to storytelling and reputation management. 

According to the site, it’s free to start, but after a seven-day trial period, you’ll be required to pay $49 monthly. The subscription gives you access to all of the lectures, assignments, knowledge checks, discussion forums, and even a certification of completion. Lastly, the course has more than 10,500 enrollees. 

2. eCornell: Assessing Opportunities in Paid Digital Media

eCornell’s online paid media course covers the basics of search engine marketing, email marketing, and video marketing through a paid lens. The course tackles topics like social media and mobile ads and will guide you through the process of drafting a paid media marketing plan. 

This two-week, fully online, instructor-led course is targeted towards marketing managers who want to understand the role digital marketing plays in an organization. The course is priced at $1,199 and is part of eCornell’s Digital Marketing program, which is priced at $3,699 and includes four courses. After completing the entire program, you will have earned a certificate.

3. Harvard Business School: Digital Marketing Strategy

Harvard Business School Online’s digital marketing course is seven weeks long, self-paced, and contains six modules. The key concepts taught are the evolution of marketing, different approaches to budget allocation, and customer engagement techniques like storytelling and personalization. 

The featured exercises include building a practice budget, calculating a customer’s lifetime value, and advising a real-life company on its marketing plan. The course costs $1,750, and the application is free, but you must be at least 18 years old to apply. 

4. LinkedIn Learning: Advance as a Digital Marketing Specialist

LinkedIn Learning’s digital marketing career path is a comprehensive program with nine courses. Each one is more than ten hours long and is designed to teach learners how to create effective customer touchpoints, develop content strategies, and gain expertise in SEO and analytics. Upon completing the program, students receive a certificate that can be added to their LinkedIn profile.

The lectures are delivered by industry experts Brad Batesole, who teaches part-time at California State University Northridge, and Marta Dapena-Baron, a former marketing lecturer at the University of Michigan and Cornell University.

To access this course path, users must subscribe to the service. The subscription costs $379.88 per seat per year, with a two-seat minimum requirement for teams.

5. Udemy: The Complete Digital Marketing Course—12 Courses in 1 

This $199.99 course offered by Udemy teaches students how to master digital marketing strategy and the fundamentals of social media, SEO, YouTube, email, X (formerly Twitter), Quora, and Facebook marketing. Taught in 17 languages over 22.5 hours of videos and articles, it also teaches you copywriting, making a website, and performing market research. 

According to the site, the course comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and it caters to three target audiences: individuals who wish to enhance their skills for job opportunities, website owners looking to boost their traffic and sales, and pre-launch business owners who are unsure where to begin.

Things to consider before enrolling in an online marketing course

If there’s one takeaway from this article, it’s that there are a lot of options in terms of the kinds of courses you can take. An overwhelming number of options can lead to analysis paralysis, so it’s important to remember that while some courses might sound great, they might not give you the exact results you’re looking for. 

Before spending your hard-earned cash or wasting your time with any marketing course, consider these factors:

• Hands-on practice : According to a report by the U.S. Department of Education ,  the term “hands-on approach” refers to guided instruction through experience. “It’s one thing to hear somebody say something. It can be quite another to make sure you can apply that thing,” Berger says. “It’s important to learn from others, but you need to make sure you can apply those learnings as well.” 
• Reviews : Berger says that word of mouth is another powerful tool in determining what you should spend your money and time on. “When I am making a tough decision, I turn to others—either looking at reviews online or talking with people offline—to understand what other people think and help make better decisions.” Sites like Udemy and Simplilearn provide ratings on the front pages of courses. 

So, what is the best online marketing course to take?

The best online marketing course is the one that best suits your needs. While you can scroll through thousands of TikTok and YouTube videos to pick up key information, a structured course can give you the backbone you need to improve your digital marketing skills. 

Whether you want to learn for free or for money, there’s an option for everyone. But if you’re still on the fence about taking an online marketing course, hear Berger’s advice: 

“Marketing touches almost everything we do—we all have a customer. Brand managers sell products, B2B companies sell services, leaders sell ideas, doctors convince patients to take medicine, lawyers try to convince their clients to take action, and employees try to convince their bosses.”

He explains that whether we interface with our customers, spouses, or children, we aim to understand them and meet them where they are. “It’s about understanding who you’re interacting with and delivering them value.” If that sounds interesting to you, then digital marketing could be a good career path. 

Fortune outlined the path you need to take to become a digital marketer , and we also compiled a list of 16 entrepreneurial classes you can take online now .

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She Just Earned Her Doctorate at 17. Now, She’ll Go to the Prom.

Dorothy Jean Tillman II of Chicago made history as the youngest person to earn a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health at Arizona State University.

By Alexandra E. Petri

When Dorothy Jean Tillman II successfully defended her dissertation in November 2023 to earn her doctoral degree from Arizona State University, she couldn’t wait to share the news with her best friend.

“It was a surreal moment,” Dr. Tillman said, “because it was crazy I was doing it in the first place.”

Dr. Tillman, at only 17, became the youngest person to earn a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from Arizona State’s College of Health Solutions, all before she was eligible to vote. Earlier this month, Dr. Tillman, now 18, took part in Arizona State’s commencement ceremony and delivered remarks as the outstanding 2024 graduate at the College of Health Solution’s convocation.

Lesley Manson, program director for the doctorate of behavioral health at Arizona State and Dr. Tillman’s doctoral chair, said Dr. Tillman displayed extraordinary perseverance, hard work and dedication for her young age, tackling every challenge head-on.

“She can serve as a real role model,” Ms. Manson said.

Dr. Tillman, called D.J. by her family and friends, was an early bloomer. She grew up in Chicago and was home-schooled from a young age, first in a group setting through online classes, and then by her mother, Jimalita Tillman, a single parent with a background in community theater.

Dr. Tillman was part of a gifted program before transitioning to home-schooling. Jimalita Tillman continued her daughter on an accelerated track: By the time she was 8, she was taking high school classes. While most 9-year-olds were learning math and reading, Dr. Tillman was starting college online.

At the time, they lived with Jimalita Tillman’s mother, Dorothy Wright Tillman, a civil rights activist who worked alongside the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and was a Chicago alderman. Dr. Tillman is her grandmother’s namesake (hence the II at the end of Dr. Tillman’s name).

During her early college days, Dr. Tillman’s classroom was often a Starbucks in Chicago, and her days began as soon it opened, she said. Her go-to order was an iced peach green tea with lemonade.

“Around the time when kids went to lunch, we’d be closing the computer,” said Dr. Tillman, who said her discipline and focus come from her grandmother.

Because of her age, Dr. Tillman lived at home while pursuing her higher education, and most of her coursework was online — a challenge for a self-described social butterfly. “I do love meeting new people and talking to people and understanding them and how their brains work,” she said. She found other ways to stay connected with friends through after-school activities.

At 10, she earned her associate degree in psychology at the College of Lake County in Illinois. At 12, she received her Bachelor of Science in humanities at Excelsior College in New York, and at 14, she earned a Master of Science from Unity College in Maine. She chose those fields because they can help scientists “understand why people treat the environment the way they do,” she told Time for Kids in a July 2020 interview.

Ellen Winner, a professor of psychology at Boston College and the author of “Gifted Children: Myths and Realities,” said that children like Dr. Tillman have a motivational intensity she calls a “rage to master.”

“One of the reasons they push themselves is they have a high, innate ability of some kind, and so learning, in whatever they are gifted in, comes easily to them and it’s very pleasurable,” she said. Schools are often not equipped for such gifted children, she added, which may lead parents to home-school their children. The trade-off, she and some experts say, is missing out on socialization and learning with children their age.

“There’s no perfect solution to kids like this,” Ms. Winner said.

Jimalita Tillman said she was sure her daughter was finished with higher education after earning her master’s degree. Dr. Tillman had just launched an organization to support Black youth in Chicago interested in STEM and the arts called the Dorothy Jeanius STEAM Leadership Institute. It was 2020, just after the beginning of the pandemic.

She was surprised when her daughter said she wanted to pursue her doctorate, and even tried to dissuade Dr. Tillman. But Dr. Tillman wanted to help young people with their mental health. She told her mother to trust her.

“I had to follow her lead,” Jimalita Tillman, 42, said.

Dr. Tillman was accepted into the management concentration at Arizona State’s College of Health Solutions, an online doctorate program. Her thesis on developing programs to reduce the stigma for college students seeking mental health services was based on a study she conducted for an in-person internship at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. Dr. Tillman hopes her story resonates with girls who are talkative, outgoing “out-there kind of girls who are trying to figure themselves out but are very smart.”

“I want them to see someone who has taken that energy, sparkle and excitement and packaged it in a way that is classy and beautiful,” she said.

Dr. Tillman may now have her doctorate, but she’s also excited about teenage things — like attending a prom. On Saturday, she going as her best friend’s date to his senior dance. They’re taking an Escalade outfitted with stars on the ceiling, she said, a feature she requested and that her mother made happen.

Dr. Tillman has been focused on school and her professional pursuits, and she plans to host her institute’s summer camp again. Then, she said, she plans to take a beat and have a “fun teenage summer,” doing things she loves, discovering new hobbies and figuring herself out in the process.

“I want to focus on who I am,” she said.

Online Master's in Education

Contact Information

Connect with program staff.

If you have program-specific questions, please contact OEL Associate Director Nicole Barone . 

Additional Information

• Download the Master's Viewbook
• Admissions & Aid

Today’s education landscape needs leaders like you — dynamic educators and innovators committed to making sustainable and scalable change for all students by building on your professional experience in PreK–12 classrooms and districts; on college and university campuses; or in philanthropies, nonprofits, policy organizations, and ed-tech initiatives.

That’s why the Harvard Graduate School of Education launched an online Master's in Education Leadership, a two-year, part-time Ed.M. program with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. The program will strengthen the invaluable skills you’ve already developed and give you the tools to propel yourself to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

“Skilled leadership is essential to creating opportunity and overcoming the longstanding inequities that create barriers to success. At HGSE, we are committed to helping you meet today’s complex challenges by becoming the type of leader education needs.” Bridget Long Dean and Saris Professor of Education and Economics Harvard Graduate School of Education

A New Option for Experienced Educators

The online Master's in Education Leadership from HGSE consists of a diverse cohort of professionals like you — leaders who are advancing in their careers, and who bring important perspectives grounded in real-world challenges. Our program is conducted almost exclusively online — except for one short on-campus experience, where you'll meet your cohort in person and build community prior to the start of the first fall semester.

The program offers a distinctive Harvard experience — including deep engagement and interaction with Harvard faculty and talented peers, as well as a lifelong professional network — within an intentionally designed curriculum and robust opportunities for mentorship and coaching. The program is career-embedded — so you can immediately apply what you are learning, in real time, to the work you are doing on the ground. 

Two Pathways: Higher Education and PreK–12

In the online Master’s in Education Leadership, you will choose between two Professional Pathways — Higher Education or PreK–12 — that align with the area of practice or the student community in which your work will make an impact. Students interested in advancing into senior leadership roles in colleges and universities, or in organizations that impact higher education, should study in the Higher Education Pathway . Students who want to do change-making work within the education ecosystem on behalf of students from early childhood to secondary education levels should select the PreK–12 Pathway .

Our prescribed curriculum is intentionally designed to meet your professional needs. It is anchored in both foundational knowledge and core competencies in education leadership related to the U.S. education system. You will also complete pathway-specific courses to advance your leadership in higher education or preK–12 education, as well as the Foundations courses. You will also have the opportunity to select courses from a small subset of electives. A minimum of 42 credits are required to graduate with an Ed.M. degree from HGSE.

The main elements of the curriculum are: 

Foundations Courses

Throughout the two-year program, you will participate in Foundations courses in four areas: How People Learn, Leading Change, Evidence, and Equity and Opportunity. Through the Foundations, you’ll build core skills central to the profession of education.

• The online Ed.M. program commences with How People Learn, which runs online June–July and requires a time commitment of 12–15 hours per week.  
• Additional Foundations learning goals and experiences tied to Leading Change and Equity and Opportunity will be incorporated into other required courses during your two-year program.

Professional Pathways

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. Throughout the program, you will take both cross-pathway courses and pathway-specific courses. Cross-pathway courses will allow you to develop leadership skills that are important across sectors, as well as have discussions about how higher education and preK–12 can work more effectively together. Cross-pathway courses include:

• Real Talk: The Art and Practice of Communications 
• Strategic Finance for Nonprofit Leaders

Pathway-specific courses are directed to the knowledge and skills important for leadership in the Pathway professional setting. 

Elective Coursework

Students will have the opportunity to choose from a curated list of electives during the optional January terms, and during the fall and spring of their second year. Sample elective courses: 

• Law and Higher Education
• Leading a School through Challenge and Crisis   
• Race, Equity, and Leadership 
• Teaching Exceptional Learners in Inclusive Classrooms 
• Why Can’t Higher Education Change? 
• Writing Workshop   

Note: Though some courses may include comparative and international examples, applicants should expect a focus on leadership within U.S. domestic educational institutions and systems. 

Leadership Core Competencies

To help you manage, lead, and implement change in complex organizations, our curriculum explores the core leadership competencies that you'll need to elevate your skills, knowledge, and expertise, wherever you are in your career. Throughout your coursework, you will strengthen your ability to:

• Lead change and think strategically 
• Foster productive organizational conditions 
• Navigate politics and practice political inclusion
• Communicate effectively 
• Cultivate self-development and team professional development skills 

Higher Education Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The Higher Education Pathway prepares you to be a dynamic leader in a diverse range of postsecondary education contexts. It is designed to increase your knowledge of the practices, policies, processes, challenges, and opportunities in American postsecondary education. You will enhance your repertoire of strategies and management skills for tackling critical issues and introducing change — while preparing you to advance in your current career or move into other important leadership roles in higher education.  

Sample courses for the Higher Education Pathway: 

• Creating the Future of American Postsecondary Education 
• Higher Education Leadership & Governance 
• Student Affairs in Higher Education: Theory-Driven Practices to Help Students Thrive 

You will also have the opportunity to engage with accomplished leaders through HGSE’s unique President-in-Residence program. 

Students interested in the Higher Education Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles: 

• Colleges and universities, including in academic affairs, student affairs, admissions and enrollment management, advancement, and institutional research
• Nonprofit education organizations
• State and federal government agencies 
• Policy organizations focused on higher education

PreK–12 Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The PreK–12 Pathway equips you to advance your leadership across the preK–12 landscape, including in such positions as teacher leader, principal, afterschool director, education agency representative, education nonprofit/philanthropic leader, or education entrepreneur.  

Sample courses for the PreK–12 Pathway: 

• Strategic Leadership in the PreK–12 Ecosystem 
• Creating Conditions for Effective School, Family, and Community Partnerships 
• Leading Learning

Students interested in the PreK-12 Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles in:

• PreK–12 schools, including as principals, assistant principals, and department heads
• Nonprofit education organizations (I.e., foundations, advocacy organizations, technical assistant organizations).
• Policy organizations focused on preK–12 education 

Projected Time Commitment

Courses combine synchronous meetings and asynchronous work and assignments. Live or synchronous aspects of required courses will occur on weekdays (Monday–Friday) between 6 and 9 p.m. ET . Some elective courses, outside the required curriculum, may be offered at alternative times. On average, this degree requires 12 to 18 hours of work per week, though the weekly commitment will vary by term, courses taken, and students' own work styles. Students can expect to spend approximately five to seven hours per week in synchronous online class sessions with faculty members and classmates. The remaining hours will be spent working independently on asynchronous class preparation, in self-scheduled small-group work with other students or working on assignments. 

Weekly Time Estimate

To complete the online Ed.M. in Education Leadership, students must complete 42 total credit hours of coursework over the two-year program. While the weekly time commitment varies, the graphic below provides a snapshot of the estimated weekly time commitment students may experience during the fall and spring semesters, when they will typically take 8 credits, the equivalent of two courses . 

Synchronous

Includes live, scheduled sessions with faculty members and other students.

Asynchronous

Self-paced activities, discussion posts, and other course-related work.

Assignments

Readings, projects, papers, research, etc.

Total Estimated Weekly Hours

Hours reflect estimates and vary by term, course, and student work style.

Occurs between Monday-Friday, according to a specific schedule.

Asynchronous work and assignments will have clear deadlines or milestones, but students can set their own schedules to complete this work. Note that there may be days or weeks during the semester that are busier than average, requiring more than the estimated time shown.

Program Faculty

The faculty co-chair for the Higher Education Pathway is Francesca Purcell . The faculty co-chair for the PreK–12 Pathway is Irvin Scott .

Faculty Co-Chairs

Francesca Purcell

Francesca Purcell is a specialist in higher education policy and practice, with expertise on topics including college completion, student transfer, and developmental education.

Irvin Leon Scott

A former teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, chief academic officer, and foundation leader, Irvin Scott's focus is on education leadership and faith-based education.

James P. Honan

Karen L. Mapp

Timothy Patrick McCarthy

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Alexis Redding

On-Campus Experience

Prior to kicking off your first fall semester, you will participate in the On-Campus Institute, an immersive experience on the HGSE campus in Cambridge. This will provide the opportunity to not only form deep relationships with your cohort, but also learn together with the faculty and advisers with whom you will spend two years. The immersive residential experience is a core component to the two-year degree program that is required of all students in the program. 

Over several days in late July and/or early August, you and your fellow peers will discuss your professional experiences and examine some of the persistent challenges in your organizations. You will immerse yourself in rich exercises and community building, set expectations of what it means to be in a rigorous HGSE degree program, and set intentions for yourself, your cohort, and your course of study. 

Career Pathways

The Master's in Education Leadership Program prepares you to advance to a senior leadership role in a variety of career pathways, including:

• Academic affairs 
• Admissions and financial aid
• Development
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Institutional research
• Student affairs

PreK-12 Pathway

• Education entrepreneur
• Executive director for an education nonprofit
• Principal* or head of school 
• Program officer for a foundation 
• School department head
• School designer and developer
• School district or network leader
• Teacher leader

Overall Program

• Education nonprofit CEO/COO 
• Educational advocate and organizer 
• Entrepreneur 

*Note: This program is not able to provide principal certification at this time.

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Online Master's in Education experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Redding, HGSE Online Master’s Students to Headline Harvard Commencement Broadcast 

Harvard-wide Commencement ceremony will feature Lecturer Alexis Redding, HGSE alumni, graduates of the Online Master's in Education during the May 23 broadcast

The Impact We Hope to Have

Kamal James and Inella Ray will be honored with the Intellectual Contribution Award for the Online Master's in Education Program

How to develop a researcher mindset as a PhD student

Entering the postgraduate sphere is a whole new ball game. Shaif Uddin Ahammed shows how to hone a PhD mindset

Shaif Uddin Ahammed

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Life as a PhD student is challenging – and one of the most testing aspects of it is the change in mindset it requires. 

You switch from being a consumer of knowledge to a producer of knowledge. In other words, you transition from passively absorbing information to actively generating new insights through original research. To do that, you have to develop the mindset of a researcher. Here, I’ll reflect on my own academic journey and experiences of supervising others, to share my thoughts on how to do just that.

Have a career plan

A PhD can be long and the prospect of writing a thesis is daunting. It can even be distracting, because you’re leaving the very idea of long-term goals on the back burner.

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That’s exactly why it’s worth having a career plan. It will remind you why you’re doing all of this and carry you through the more draining aspects of your studies and research. Trust me, this will help. 

But there’s a difference between simply having goals and having a plan. A plan involves steps to help you achieve the goals you’re aiming towards and gives you boxes to tick. For example, your plan could involve attending conferences, publishing articles and teaching and supporting students. It should also identify skills gaps and outline plans to address them. 

Make sure your targets are realistic and achievable, and discuss them with your supervisor, who will guide you accordingly. Having a well-considered plan will help to motivate you and provide a map to help you chart your progress. Aside from anything else, this is important in helping you maintain a healthy work-life balance. 

Take every opportunity that you can to learn

If you’re studying towards a PhD, you have already demonstrated a desire to learn. Make sure you now take every opportunity to do so and that you learn from sources beyond your supervisor or supervisory team. 

Postgraduate research students can attend regular events and workshops organised by the academic skills teams and career advisors within their universities. By leveraging these resources, you can develop the knowledge and skills required to complete your doctoral degree and also learn about the skills required to secure a job with potential employers. 

It is particularly important to attend workshops organised by the university’s doctoral school. I would strongly urge you not to ignore these sessions. Some students choose to select only those workshops they believe will be beneficial, but attending all workshops – particularly in the early stages of your degree – will help you to develop skills and knowledge that could prove vital in the future. 

For instance, if you are a qualitative researcher, you might choose only to attend workshops related to qualitative research. However, in a future job you might need to teach quantitative methodology or be involved in research using quantitative methods. So it’s good practice not to be selective and to attend all workshops, allowing you to gain wider knowledge and develop networks with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Involve yourself in academic activities

In research-related careers, applicants are generally expected to have experience of teaching, so it’s hugely important to actively seek teaching and supervisory opportunities both within your university and outside of it. You should also engage in grant applications with others, including your supervisory team – this will provide hands-on experience of the daily challenges faced by academics. 

Many PhD students – and even some supervisors – think these activities could delay the completion of a doctoral degree, but they really do help you to acquire the skills you will need going forward. Supervising undergraduate and postgraduate students will offer insight into mentoring and managing expectations, including those of your supervisor. Involvement with teaching and assessments will give you an intuition when it comes to academic life, and the opportunity to directly apply new skills with the students you work with. This will foster the mindset that you are not only a PhD student but also an active academic. 

Attend conferences and engage with journals

Seek out opportunities to publish in academic journals and attend relevant conferences. If you don’t, your work might not have the desired impact, regardless of its merit. 

Conferences offer a platform for feedback, peer review opportunities, research visibility and invaluable networking. Similarly, involvement in publications and conferences can inspire new ideas and perspectives for research.

The PhD journey is never an easy one, given the number of commitments involved. Remind yourself that you are a researcher and an academic, and that your work has the potential to shape knowledge and understanding for years to come. Research is challenging – but if you’re in a position to study for a PhD, that means you already have the tools to overcome them. 

Shaif Uddin Ahammed is programme leader of MSc International Management and lecturer in strategy and leadership at the University of the West of Scotland. 

If you would like advice and insight from academics and university staff delivered direct to your inbox each week, sign up for the Campus newsletter .

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Best Engineering Schools to Be Published June 18

Here's how U.S. News calculated rankings across 13 specialties, from chemical engineering to mechanical engineering.

New Best Engineering Rankings June 18

Getty Images

On June 18, 2024, U.S. News will publish its 2024 Best Engineering Schools rankings, including an overall ranking of nearly 200 doctorate-granting schools of engineering. Rankings across 13 specialties, such as chemical engineering and mechanical engineering, will also be published.

In line with last year's revamped methodology, half of each school’s rank is based on research activity, while the remaining combined factors comprise the other half. U.S. News favors this approach because research productivity is a core attribute of a department enrolling doctoral students.

The increased research focus is in line with diversifying the underlying metrics used to measure engineering research so that each school’s ranking was not too dependent on a single measure.

To be clear, the total dollar amounts of external research expenditures at engineering schools are a reliable indicator of research activity. These metrics also reflect the American Society for Engineering Education's standardized definition , which includes only activity tied to grants and contracts budgeted for research from applicable external sources, including federal, state, local and foreign governments, industry, nonprofits and individuals.

Even so, total spending is not the only factor to consider when evaluating a school’s research activity. One limitation is that while these aggregated amounts signify the quantity of research an engineering school conducts, they inform less about the quality and impact of that research.

Bibliometric data helps with quality. How often publications are cited in other research, especially in top journals, indicates whether schools’ publications left favorable impressions. Consequently, U.S. News reduced by 10 percentage points the weight placed on research grants indicators, replacing them with the following four new bibliometric ranking factors: citations per publication, field weighted citation impact, and shares of publications cited in the top 5% and top 25% of the most-cited journals.

Citations per publication is the total number of citations divided by the total number of publications for each engineering school. Field-weighted citation impact is the citation impact per paper, normalized for each engineering field to account for some fields being more likely than others to be cited. The remaining two factors account for the extent publications appear in top journals.

The data reflects a five-calendar-year time span, 2019-2023, and were calculated and compiled by Elsevier, a global leader in information and analytics.

Note that all statistics are scaled, meaning they measure the impact of research produced rather than the quantity. This was done purposefully for a couple of reasons. First, it was in response to a 2023 ASEE survey of its members, many of whom suggested the rankings formula had been overleveraged on rewarding schools for their size. Second, this meant logical issues involving the publications that Elsevier attributed to each engineering school were not instrumental in how each school performed.

U.S. News and Elsevier made significant efforts to compile bibliometric statistics for each school based on comprehensive records that followed a standardized approach. The data was derived from how publications’ authors identified their school, research centers and lab affiliations. Specifically, Elsevier used advanced clustering technology to map affiliation text from five types of peer-reviewed documents – articles, conference papers, reviews, books and book chapters – to organizational identifiers.

In early May 2024, engineering schools were given a comprehensive list of affiliates and their name variants that Elsevier had mapped to their schools. Schools could offer additional name variants they believed were missing.

This approach was admittedly subject to the limitations of how faculty have identified their school affiliations in publications. But requiring an explicit identification to a school best ensured only relevant publications would be applied to the rankings. Other approaches fail this test.

For example, mapping publications using faculty names instead of school attribution, as some schools have proposed, would result in including publications that are not connected to the corresponding engineering school, in part because faculty may have changed institutions over a five-year period. Relying on 199 schools to self-report comparable information on eligible faculty would also undermine the benefit of using third-party data.

Finally, this is a ranking of engineering schools, not individuals working in engineering departments. This is why it’s important to focus on the affiliations of engineering schools. But as an acknowledgement that the roster of publications used in the rankings were subject to methodological approach, U.S. News will not publish schools’ total publication counts on its website.

The objective of the rankings is to help prospective graduate students better understand their options for improving their skills, specializing in fields of interest and gaining leadership opportunities that lead to higher salaries. More sophisticated rankings better inform those choices. The latest adjustments to the 2024 Best Engineering Schools rankings methodology help provide a more complete assessment of schools’ research activity by complementing research grant statistics with data on the impact of that spending.

Tags: engineering , engineering graduate school , colleges , education , rankings , students

About Morse Code: Inside the College Rankings

Robert Morse is chief data strategist for U.S. News & World Report and has worked at the company since 1976. He develops the methodologies and surveys for the Best Colleges and Best Graduate Schools annual rankings, keeping an eye on higher-education trends to make sure the rankings offer prospective students the best analysis available. Morse Code provides deeper insights into the methodologies and is a forum for commentary and analysis of college, grad and other rankings.

2024 Best Colleges

Search for your perfect fit with the U.S. News rankings of colleges and universities.