best online phd programs in education

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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.

Showing 1 - 25 of 67 results

Arizona state university - doctor of education (ed.d.) in leadership and innovation, from the school, baylor university - online doctor of education (ed.d.) in learning and organizational change, university of dayton - online doctor of education (ed.d.) in leadership for organizations, the university of north carolina at chapel hill - ed.d. in organizational learning and leadership, university of southern california - doctor of education (ed.d.) in organizational change and leadership online, 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, arcadia university - doctor of education in educational leadership (deel), aspen university - doctor of education (ed.d.) in leadership and learning, 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.).

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• Best Online Ed.D. Programs

Best Online Ed.D. Programs Of 2024

Updated: Dec 11, 2023, 10:55am

The highest degree educators and educational leaders can earn is the doctorate. At this level, schools offer doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) and doctor of education (Ed.D.) degrees. These share some similarities and outcomes but may differ in scope and content.

Ph.D. programs generally qualify people for work in research and academia, while Ed.D. degrees typically equip learners for educational leadership roles. Ed.D. degrees often have shorter graduation timelines, too, allowing graduates to enter the workforce more quickly.

As more schools embrace distance education, grad students benefit from online Ed.D. programs offering flexible scheduling and asynchronous coursework. This guide covers the top doctorate in education online programs, exploring each degree’s accreditation, curriculum, tuition costs and delivery methods.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We scored eight accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online Ed.D. programs in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of June 2023.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We listed all eight schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Ed.D. Degree Options

Should you enroll in an online ed.d. program, accreditation for online ed.d. programs, how to find the right online ed.d. for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online ed.d. programs, johns hopkins university, union university, university of dayton, morehead state university, university of new england, liberty university, nova southeastern university, regent university.

Graduate Tuition

$1,900/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Johns Hopkins University , located in Baltimore, Maryland, features an online Ed.D. program with five available areas of interest: creativity, advanced learning and twice exceptionality; digital age learning and educational technology; entrepreneurial leadership in education; mind, brain and teaching; and urban leadership.

All pathways include foundational coursework, applied research and elective classes. Each student must complete 12 credits of doctoral dossier research, including an oral defense.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $80
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Computational thinking for K-12 educators, technology for learner variability
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: No

$695/credit

At Jackson, Tennessee’s Union University , students can pursue an online Ed.D. in educational leadership with accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Union University applies a Christ-centered focus, and learners advance through the curriculum in cohorts.

The program features concentrations in higher education and P-12 school administration. Both tracks require a dissertation after completing 60 credits with a minimum 3.2 GPA, along with written and oral exams. Students complete the degree after successfully defending their dissertations to faculty.

• Our Flexibility Rating: N/A
• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Legal issues in school governance, teacher leadership
• Concentrations Available: Higher education, P-12 school administration (with sub-concentrations in instructional leadership, teacher leadership and leadership in school reform)
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for summer residency

$1,455/credit

The doctorate in education online program at Ohio’s University of Dayton (UD) focuses on leadership for organizations. The curriculum covers intercultural proficiency, advocacy and how to build learning communities. Students attend weekly remote classes and complete two on-campus immersions to build connections with peers and faculty.

UD doctoral students complete a nine-credit “dissertation-in-practice” throughout the program to explore issues in organizational leadership. Faculty members guide learners through the process, from choosing a topic to applying their findings in real-world scenarios.

• Application Fee: Free
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time, full time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Qualitative research, program evaluation
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus immersions 

$570/credit

Morehead State University (MSU) in Kentucky offers a three-year online Ed.D. program with concentrations across several student ages and types. MSU aims to foster graduates who merge practice, scholarship and servant leadership. The program requires a four-day course that takes place on campus.

Learners complete the program with doctoral capstone projects. These projects take a research focus, allowing students to analyze data and apply their findings to improve learner outcomes. MSU offers flat-rate tuition for all online students, regardless of their location. Each distance learner pays an additional $15 per credit for online classes.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $30
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Principles of leadership: service to others; action research and grant writing
• Concentrations Available: Adult and higher education leadership; P-12 administrative leadership; educational technology leadership; exceptional child leadership; career and technical education leadership
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for four-day, on-campus course

$1,020/credit

The online Ed.D. program at Biddeford, Maine’s University of New England (UNE) uses asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, allowing students to remain employed while earning their degrees.

UNE features an “integrated dissertation” process that occurs within several courses and allows learners to take a qualitative, quantitative or combined approach. Each student pairs with a two-person advisory team for their research. Online students pay a $150 tech fee per semester.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 51 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Policy analysis, organizational dynamics

$595/credit (full time)

Liberty University , located in Lynchburg, Virginia, features several doctorate in education online programs, including Ed.D. degrees in educational leadership; curriculum and instruction; higher education administration; and special education. These programs have all received CAEP accreditation.

Liberty’s transfer-friendly policies allow learners to bring up to 27 credits from previous education. After finishing 12 research-focused credits, students complete a capstone project across four courses.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Issues and trends in learning technologies; culture and educational leadership
• Concentrations Available: Administration and supervision; curriculum and instruction; educational leadership; higher education administration; instructional design and technology; special education
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, some degrees require a practicum and internship

$1,550/credit

At Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s Nova Southeastern University (NSU), students can pursue one of nine online Ed.D. specializations, such as educational leadership or reading education. NSU offers these classes fully online, but learners must attend an in-person Summer Institute conference.

NSU prioritizes real-world applications of coursework to prepare graduates for the workforce. Regardless of their chosen specialization, students can choose between completing a dissertation or strategic research project.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 55 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Strategic planning, academic writing
• Concentrations Available: Educational leadership; curriculum and teaching; higher education leadership; human services administration; instructional technology and distance education; organizational leadership; reading education; special education; sports leadership
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for in-person conference residency

$800/credit

The online Ed.D. program at Regent University blends synchronous and asynchronous delivery to mirror the classroom experience while providing greater freedom. Students can choose from 10 concentrations, including exceptional education executive leadership, adult education and Christian education leadership.

Regent’s dissertation comprises 16 credits. The process begins with students creating a prospectus and culminates with a defense. Each online learner pays a $700-per-semester fee, $150 less than students at the Virginia Beach, Virginia campus.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 61 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Qualitative data analysis, educational statistics
• Concentrations Available: Adult education; advanced educational leadership;
• Christian education leadership; curriculum and instruction; educational psychology; educational technology and online learning; exceptional education executive leadership; higher education leadership and management; K-12 school leadership; special education
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, some concentrations require an internship

With the recent boom in distance education, many schools have expanded their online offerings to every degree level, including doctoral degrees. While remote learning provides some distinct benefits over in-person instruction, consider your personal learning style before committing to a program.

As you research online Ed.D. programs, take note of their delivery method. Asynchronous delivery, which does not require set class times, offers flexibility in watching lectures and finishing assignments. However, this method requires you to remain motivated and organized to complete your tasks on time. Some schools employ a hybrid approach, blending online and in-person classes or mixing synchronous and asynchronous work.

If a program uses exclusively synchronous delivery, make sure the set log-in times work with your schedule. Online Ed.D. programs may also include in-person residency requirements. Always ensure you can travel for any necessary trips to campus before applying.

The following section covers other considerations for prospective online learners.

Schools voluntarily undergo a process known as accreditation in which third-party agencies evaluate their curriculums, student outcomes and resources. Programs and departments within institutions may also pursue programmatic accreditation from specialized accreditors.

Institutional Accreditation

Always prioritize schools with institutional accreditation. Earning a degree from an accredited school qualifies you to transfer credits among institutions, apply for federal financial aid and receive licensure. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognize the following institutions to provide institutional accreditation:

• WASC Senior College and University Commission
• New England Commission of Higher Education
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Higher Learning Commission
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

If you aren’t sure of a school’s accreditation status, use CHEA’s directory to look up prospective institutions.

Programmatic Accreditation

The primary accreditor for education programs is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Employers typically do not require candidates to graduate from a CAEP-accredited Ed.D. program. However, programmatic accreditation signals that graduates completed a rigorous curriculum that effectively prepared them for the workforce.

Some programs display their accreditation on their degree pages. If not, you can find accredited programs using CAEP’s search tool .

Consider Your Future Goals

At this point in your educational journey, you likely have a strong sense of your professional goals. Use this knowledge to identify the right doctorate in education program .

For example, if you want to work in academia, it may make sense to prioritize programs that focus on research. Ed.D. programs with assistantships give you the opportunity to practice alongside professors and other faculty. If you plan to pursue educational leadership , seek programs that provide real-world experience through internships and other applied learning opportunities.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

A graduate education requires a significant investment of time, energy and—perhaps most importantly—finances. Unlike Psy.D. and Ph.D. programs, Ed.D. degrees are less likely to be fully funded through apprenticeships, fellowships or work-study opportunities . However, some schools do offer these funding options.

The National Center for Education Statistics reports that public graduate schools charge in-state students an average of $11,554 in tuition and fees, while out-of-state learners pay an average of $21,000. Annual tuition and fees for private schools average $20,015. Note that these figures apply to graduate schools rather than doctoral programs specifically.

Yearly tuition among the schools on our list varies significantly, from about $8,000 to more than $25,000. On average, our ranked schools charged about $14,500 in annual tuition.

To lower your financial burden, research any available forms of aid. Fill out the FAFSA to receive information about your eligibility for different aid sources, including direct unsubsidized loans and grad PLUS loans. However, these carry interest and require repayment. Before relying on loans, look for forms of funding that you do not need to repay, like grants and scholarships.

Schools and private organizations offer scholarships and grants based on factors like need, identity and academic achievement. Students attending online Ed.D. programs can apply for programs like the $4,000 Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant and AFCEA’s STEM teacher scholarships .

Is an Ed.D. still called a doctor?

Yes, graduates who complete an Ed.D. program—resulting in a doctor of education degree—can use the title of “doctor.”

Can you become a professor with an Ed.D.?

Yes, holding an Ed.D. typically qualifies you to teach at the college level, though you may also need professional experience.

How long does an Ed.D. take?

An Ed.D. may take three to seven years to complete, depending on enrollment status. Full-time students typically take three to four years, while individuals who opt for part-time study extend this timeline.

Matt Whittle has experience writing and editing accessible education-related content in health, technology, nursing and business subjects. His work has been featured on Sleep.org, Psychology.org and NurseJournal.org.

Doctor of Education : Doctorate Degree in Education

Johns Hopkins’ newly redesigned, global online Doctor of Education is at the forefront of education doctoral programs with the most innovative, challenging, and student-centered program of its kind.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the program continues to lead with the “EdD 2.0” offering, which is ideal for the busy education practitioner within any professional context. Our program recognizes that learning is both lifelong and occurs outside of formal schooling.

The vision of the Johns Hopkins EdD program is to prepare education-practitioners across the country and around the world to think critically about problems within their education environment and develop the insights and capacity to lead positive, sustained change.

Questions? Please reach out and we’ll be in touch soon.

Upcoming admissions events.

Have questions about our degree programs, the application, or financial aid and costs? Join us for an inside look at a graduate experience defined by innovation and driven by evidence-based research. Learn more about your area of interest or career path, meet some of our faculty, and connect to the Johns Hopkins School of Education community. Check out our admissions events and register for a virtual information session today.

Doctor of Education Student Panel

Doctor of Education Problem of Practice Webinar

Core Faculty

Yolanda abel, edd.

Associate Professor

Affiliation

Advanced Studies in Education

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education

Camille Bryant, PhD

Joshua travis brown, phd.

Assistant Professor

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics, Postsecondary Education, Social Context of Education

Marcia Davis, PhD

Associate Professor (Research) Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of Schools Director of Research, Baltimore Education Research Consortium

Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership

Learning & Instruction, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Christine Eith, PhD

Interim Department Chair, Advanced Studies in Education Assistant Professor

Keri M. Guilbault, EdD

Associate Professor Interim Director, Doctor of Education Program Faculty Lead, Gifted Education Programs

Counseling & Educational Studies

Gifted Education, Learning & Instruction

Ranjini Mahinda JohnBull, PhD

Learning & Instruction, Mind, Brain, & Teaching

Olivia Marcucci, PhD

Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Social Context of Education

James Diamond, PhD

Educational Technology, Learning & Instruction

E. Juliana Pare-Blagoev, EdD

Eric rice, phd.

Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Laura Flores Shaw, EdD

Assistant Professor Faculty Lead, Doctor of Education

Learning & Instruction

Henry M. Smith, EdD

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics

Program Overview

Exceptional education-practitioners will engage with an internationally renowned faculty to cultivate and practice curiosity, critical discourse, and perspective taking in a unique and rigorous course of study using the lenses of social justice, systems thinking, appropriate research methods, and empirical inquiry.

Coursework includes the latest research on the social determinants of education; mind, brain, and teaching; entrepreneurship; data and measurement; and technology. The redesigned program allows our doctoral students to customize their program by expanding their choice of electives so that they may focus more deeply on their professional interests that align with their problem of practice. Our online EdD prepares education practitioners to be transformational leaders within their professional settings.

The vision of the Johns Hopkins EdD program is to impact complex educational problems across the globe by preparing education practitioners to think critically and systemically about problems within their professional settings and develop deep understanding and insights to lead positive, sustained change within those settings.Our graduates create new areas of research, promote distribution and utilization of research findings in professional practice, and contribute to wider public discourse and policy.

Areas of Interest

The EdD program includes areas of interest. Applicants can indicate one or more areas of interest they think are related to a problem of practice and would like to explore. Current areas of interest are:

Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education

Learning design and technology, neurodiversity and neuroeducation, urban leadership.

*Courses and course sequences are subject to change.

Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education offers a unique opportunity for school and other educational organization leaders in both public and private educational environments. Students develop their knowledge, skills, and dispositions as they engage in leading efforts to build new venture opportunities in varied educational organizations. Through multidisciplinary lenses, educational leaders promote innovation in the paradigms, strategies, values and culture in school systems, social entrepreneurial ventures, and education companies. Each of the courses offers an opportunity to explore leadership theoretical frameworks, identify a Problem of Practice, and create a plan of action, through analysis and synthesis of presentations, readings, and discussion of the current state of multiple educational environments and the visions and challenges for the future.

Sample Courses:

• Entrepreneurship in Education
• Talent Management and Organizational Finance for Entrepreneurial Leaders
• Data Driven Decision Making
• Partnerships and Educational Organizations
• Leadership in Education Organizations
• Research on Effective Professional Development

The EdD program’s Learning Design and Technology (LDT) area of interest is designed to equip educational leaders and researchers with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to critically engage with the rapidly evolving field of educational technology. This area of interest draws on the foundational elements of the school’s LDT program, focusing on the integration of learning sciences, human-centered design, and innovative assessment strategies to drive meaningful educational change. EdD students will explore the intersection of technology and pedagogy, exploring conceptual and empirical research and developing skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating digital learning environments. Through this area of interest, students will be prepared to lead initiatives that leverage technology to enhance learning outcomes, promote equity and inclusivity, and address the diverse needs of learners in various educational contexts. This area of interest is ideal for those looking to make a significant impact on educational practice and policy through the thoughtful application of educational technologies.

• Gaming and Simulations for Learning
• How People Learn
• Computational Thinking for K–12 Educators
• Maker Education: Cultivating Curiosity, Creativity, and Problem Solving in Theory and Practice
• Foundations and Applications of Learning Experience Design
• AI in Education

The Neurodiversity and Neuroeducation area of interest is designed for educators eager to explore research in cognitive science and neuroscience and its potential applications in education. Courses promote the integration of diverse disciplines that investigate human learning and development. This area of interest draws upon basic and applied research from cognitive science, psychology, brain sciences, neurology, neuroscience, and education. Educators develop the knowledge and skills to interpret basic and applied research and to apply relevant findings to educational practices and policies with a social justice lens. Courses in this area of interest focus on building expertise in learning sciences and cognitive diversity, preparing candidates for roles as informed educators, effective leaders, and skilled advocates for equity and excellence.

• Mind, Brain Science, and Learning
• Fundamentals of Cognitive Development
• Neurobiology of Learning Differences
• Twice Exceptional Learners
• Creativity in Education
• Social, Emotional, and Psychosocial Development of the Gifted
• Survey of Autism
• Introduction to Children and Youth With Exceptionalities

Cities are usually characterized by diverse populations with rich communities made up of many different races, classes, languages, and nationalities, and this dynamism is a chief strength of urban areas. However, urban schools typically serve populations characterized by high concentrations of poverty and therefore face difficult choices about how to allocate scarce resources. Urban Leadership is designed for educational professionals interested in exploring this dual nature of urban schools through a deep understanding of a Problem of Practice based in their unique context of professional practice. This area of interest prepares educational leaders to work in urban environments through a focus on topics such as building a strength-based understanding of the complexities of urban communities, engaging the latest research on urban educational programs, developing strategies for program improvement, and building partnerships with families, communities, and other organizations.

• Approaches to Urban Education
• Individuals in Urban Context
• Organizations and Institutions
• Partnerships and Community Organizing
• Power, Politics, and Policy in Education
• Leadership for School and Educational Organization Redesign
• Critical Theories of Race and Racism in Education

Graduates from our EdD program work in diverse areas, including executive roles in educational organizations and start-ups, leadership in K-12 school districts and systems, consultancy in specialized education fields, and more.

• Administrator
• Superintendent
• Instructional Designer
• Chief Learning Officer

100% Online

Continue your full-time career and apply what you learn in real time as you earn your degree 100% online.

Legal Disclosure

State-specific information for online students.

Students should be aware of additional state-specific information for online programs . Johns Hopkins University is a member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate , which is the knowledge forum on the EdD. It has a membership of over 100 schools of education in the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand working collaboratively to improve professional preparation in education at the highest level.

Doctorate in Education Program Guide

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Educators do their best, but sometimes the system isn’t perfect. Problems fall through the cracks and create more problems. There may be an issue you have a dream of fixing one day. A doctorate in education (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) can help you do that.

If you don’t know which you want to pursue, or you want to know the difference between an Ed.D. and Ph.D. , we’re here to help.

Popular Doctoral Programs in Education

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Is a Doctorate in Education Degree?

A doctorate in education is rigorous . It’s an advanced degree with challenging coursework and dissertation research. It offers a variety of valuable experiences and outcomes, from developing leadership skills to pursuing specialized career paths.

A Ph.D. in education helps you gain in-depth working knowledge of educational theories, research, and practices. You’ll be able to work with leading researchers and faculty and build a strong network of fellow educators.

A Ph.D. program typically prepares students for advanced research in education. It’s a research-oriented degree that emphasizes scholarly research, theoretical frameworks and contributing to the knowledge base in education.

An Ed.D. program often focuses on developing skills and knowledge for academic leadership roles. It’s a professional practice-oriented degree that applies research and theory to real-world educational contexts.

Earning an Ed.D. in education can prepare you for leadership roles such as a school principal, university president, or superintendent. Some programs prepare graduates for other community leadership roles. It can also prepare you to become doctoral faculty within an Ed.D. program itself.

Doctoral Programs in Education Courses and Concentrations

The curriculum of a doctorate in education depends on if it’s a Ph.D. or an Ed.D. program. Specializations will also impact curricula — educational psychology covers different topics than education policy would.

Both Ph.D. programs and Ed.D. programs usually cover advanced theories, research, and practical applications in education. Coursework may explore educational leadership, research methods, curriculum development, educational policy, and instructional design.

Doctorate in Education Concentrations

Educational Administration

Educational administration prepares students for leadership roles in educational settings. Key skills taught in the concentration include strategic planning, organizational management, policy analysis, and ethical decision-making.

Higher Education

A higher education concentration develops skills and knowledge for leadership roles in colleges and universities. Learning outcomes include gaining expertise in higher education policy, administration, research, and pedagogy.

Curriculum Instruction

Curriculum instruction involves the design, strategies and assessment of curricula. Gaining expertise in curriculum development, instructional leadership, and research are common points of focus in this concentration.

Educational Leadership

Educational leadership focuses on leadership skills and knowledge specific to educational settings. Students learn about topics like strategic planning, organizational management, policy analysis, and educational equity.

Human Resource Development

Human resource development (HRD) prepares students to lead, design, and implement effective training and development programs in organizations. Learning outcomes include advanced knowledge in adult learning theories, organizational development, and strategic HRD.

How to Apply for a Doctorate in Education Program

Most doctorate in education programs require a master’s degree . Beyond that, Ph.D. in education requirements can vary. Some programs may prefer several years of related work experience. Others look for candidates who have leadership skills in an educational setting or teacher certifications. Or, it can be a combination of all the above.

The following are typical general admission requirements for a doctorate in education program:

• Master’s Degree: Most programs require applicants to hold a master’s degree in education or a related field. Applicants typically need a strong foundation in educational theory and research. Most programs also require a minimum grade point average of 3.0.
• Recommendation Letters: Programs often request 1-3 letters of recommendation from people who can speak to your capabilities. Ideally, they should have knowledge of your academic abilities, work experience, leadership potential, and commitment to the field of education.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae: A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) highlights your educational background, work experience, research involvement, publications, and other relevant achievements.
• Purpose Statement: A purpose statement is a written essay about your passion and alignment with the program. Here, you’ll explain your motivations for pursuing a doctorate in education, research interest and career goals.
• Test Scores: Some but not all Ph.D. programs require applicants to take the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and meet score expectations . Fewer Ed.D. programs require it, but some still do.

How Much Does a Doctoral in Education Degree Cost?

The tuition for a doctorate in education can vary based on several factors. The institution can play a significant role in determining the cost. Prestigious universities often have higher tuition rates compared to less renowned institutions.

Average Annual Tuition and Fees: Online vs. On-Campus Programs

Online Doctorate in Education

On-Campus Doctorate in Education

The program format also impacts tuition. Online programs sometimes have lower tuition due to reduced campus infrastructure costs. Full-time students generally pay higher tuition rates than part-time students due to campus-specific fees and higher course loads..

Other associated costs include textbooks, technology fees, research expenses and potentially housing and travel expenses for in-person programs.

What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Education?

A doctorate in education provides many career options . One path you can take is entering academia as a professor. You could also pursue leadership roles in K-12 institutions. For example, you could become a principal or superintendent, or a higher education leader. Other careers include educational consulting, policy analysis and research.

With a doctorate in education, you can make a meaningful impact in various settings. Common examples include schools, colleges, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and research institutions.

According to April 2024 Payscale data , the average base salary for someone with a doctorate in education is $88,000.

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorates in Education

Ed.d. vs. ph.d. in education: what is the difference.

Students of both an Ed.D. or Ph.D. are prepared with the skills to impact education positively, but from different perspectives. An Ed.D. focuses on practical application in education and prepares students for educational leadership, such as a principal, superintendent, or college president. A Ph.D. is a research-focused degree.

Can you get an Ed.D. or a Ph.D. in education online?

Yes, there are many online programs for an Ed.D. or a Ph.D. in education. Schools like the University of Arizona, Drexel University and Walden University offer online doctorates in education. Each program typically has a main focus. For example, Arizona State University’s online doctor of education is in leadership and innovation.

How many years does it take to get a doctorate in education?

How many years it takes to get a doctorate in education varies by program, required credits, and whether you’re a full-time or part-time student. The average time to complete an Ed.D. is three years. Whether you already have a master’s degree or have completed doctorate coursework can also affect completion time.

Do all doctorate in education programs require a master’s degree?

Many doctorate in education programs require a master’s degree, but some will allow you to earn a master’s degree as part of the Ph.D. curriculum. These programs may make accommodations for students with a bachelor’s who want to jump directly into a doctoral program.

Is getting an online doctorate in education worth it?

An online doctorate in education can be worth it for several reasons. A Ph.D. and Ed.D. are the highest level of education a person can earn in the field. NCES data shows online education doctoral programs are cheaper than in-person programs. Online programs also provide flexibility and convenience.

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