A Doctor of Education is an advanced degree for people who aim to be leaders in teaching and education.
This practical degree program will equip you with essential knowledge for leading groups, training educators, instructing students, and mobilizing communities.
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Online Doctor of Education (EdD) degrees allow busy teachers and administrators to continue their personal learning journeys. If you’re eager to rise to the top of your field, then this online program might be just what you’re looking for.
Online Doctor of Education Programs
If you want an educational doctorate, then think about what you’d like to study and what your career plans are. There are multiple specializations for EdD degrees, so you can select the program that’s the best match for your goals and interests.
Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:
- Online Ed.D. in Adult Education
- Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
- Online Ed.D. in Early Childhood Education
- Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership
- Online Ed.D. in Higher Education
- Online Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership
- Online Ed.D. in Reading and Literacy
- Online Ed.D. in Special Education
You can explore these programs to see which ones best match your interests and goals.
EdD in Adult Education
Not all teachers work with young students. If you want to reach an adult demographic, then this could be the concentration for you. Your degree program might include studies on how adults learn new information. You’ll also discover useful methodologies for teaching adult learners.
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The courses might cover useful topics for various educational settings, such as how to write grant proposals or coordinate programming. Educational research is likely to be an additional topic. This degree could help prepare you to be a college instructor or administrator. You could also use it for a career as a community educator or a workplace trainer.
EdD in Curriculum and Instruction
Curriculum and instruction professionals guide much of the teaching and learning that goes on in classrooms. If you want to lead in that area, this doctorate could provide essential training.
Assessment is a key topic in this degree program. You can study how to assess students’ educational needs and evaluate their progress. The classes will also teach you to design a curriculum and instruction that targets those needs.
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You could pursue work for a curriculum company, designing materials or training teachers how to use them. Another option is to work in a school district as a curriculum and instruction coordinator.
EdD in Early Childhood Education
Early childhood education focuses on children between birth and age 8. This doctorate could help prepare you to take leadership roles in organizations serving that age group.
Common topics for early childhood programs include child development, family dynamics, literacy and language, and instructional methods. You might also talk about creating learning environments that support the unique needs of young children. Other courses may focus on policymaking and advocacy for preschool education.
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This degree could be useful for leadership roles in preschools, childcare facilities, and community organizations. Graduates also pursue careers as early childhood professors, preschool curriculum developers, and policymakers.
EdD in Educational Leadership
If your goal is to be a leader in a school setting, then you may want to focus your EdD studies on leadership skills and methods. You can learn about managing organizational change and creating a healthy environment in which to work and learn. The classes might also cover school law and teacher supervision.
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Some leadership degrees are designed as preparation for school administrator licensure. Internships are usually required. You may qualify to work as a school principal or superintendent with this degree. Another potential option is to go into higher education administration.
EdD in Higher Education
If you know that you want to work at the college level, then you could choose to study higher education during your doctoral program. During your time in school, you’ll learn about community colleges as well as four-year colleges and universities.
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The coursework might cover financial matters, student services, educational technology, academic rigor, and distance learning. Your program is likely to have a research component too. With this degree, graduates might become a dean, an athletic director, or another type of higher education administrator. Some also end up working as a professor in an education department.
EdD in Organizational Leadership
This program emphasizes the leadership skills required for effectively heading up educational institutions. You’ll study organizational culture, leadership ethics, decision-making, and change management. There may also be a class on global or multicultural organizational leadership.
Other courses will emphasize research and data methodologies that are useful for leaders who are responsible for an organization’s decisions and directions. Studying organizational leadership could help prepare you to work as an administrator in organizational settings, such as childcare centers, colleges, and, if licensed, K-12 schools.
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Your knowledge of organizational leadership might also help you secure a job outside of education, such as in the corporate world.
EdD in Reading and Literacy
Specialists in reading and literacy often work with students at the elementary level, but they can play a role in nearly any educational institution.
You might learn how to assess students’ literacy skills and use the data to craft personalized intervention plans. The program might also include courses in writing grants, working with students with diverse needs and backgrounds, and heading up school or community programs.
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This degree program could enable you to lead school literacy programs, but you might also consider working alongside school districts as a curriculum writer, consultant, or coach. Adult education organizations might also benefit from your expertise.
EdD in Special Education
If your passion involves reaching students with special needs, then you’ll appreciate the lessons in this program. For this degree, you might take courses in behavior science, school administration, and teaching methods for exceptional populations. Your studies might also cover special education law and policymaking.
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Within this program, you might have the opportunity to specialize further. Potential specialization areas include applied behavior analysis (ABA), deaf studies, autism, and emotional disorders. This doctorate could be useful if you want to work as a special education director in a school district or a community program. It could also benefit curriculum designers.
Education Careers & Salaries
As an education professional, you may already work in the classroom. You could continue along that career path once you get your doctorate. Jobs are available in special education, K-12, adult basic education, and preschool classes.
Other school-based roles may be available to you as well. For example, some people become curriculum and instructional coordinators. They plan curriculum and direct teaching methods for a school or a district. With this degree, you might qualify for higher pay or leadership advancement. Leadership roles include being a preschool director, a childcare director, a school principal, or a district superintendent.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education, training, and library occupations are growing at a 7% rate overall and have a median annual salary of $57,220.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Training and Development Managers | $120,130 |
| Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals | $98,420 |
| Postsecondary Education Administrators | $96,910 |
| Postsecondary Teachers | $79,640 |
| Social and Community Service Managers | $74,000 |
| Instructional Coordinators | $63,740 |
| Editors | $63,350 |
| Special Education Teachers | $61,820 |
| Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers | $59,720 |
| Preschool and Childcare Center Directors | $47,310 |
Some jobs in education, including K-12 teaching and administration, require state licensure in addition to a degree. With a doctorate, you could consider working in higher education as well. That might mean becoming a professor in the education department or working as an administrator.
Outside of school settings, some education experts head up community organizations. Others write or edit curriculum. Leading workplace training initiatives could be another option.
Ed.D. Online Curriculum & Courses
Taking a variety of advanced courses is a key component of earning a doctorate degree in education. Here are some course examples:
- Curriculum Practices: You might have a course in which you study evidence-based best practices for curricula that help students meet learning goals.
- Diverse Schools: A class on diversity can help prepare you to work with students and staff from many different backgrounds.
- Education Administration: This course will cover leadership and management skills for schools and other learning settings.
- Governance and Policy: There could be a class that addresses school district leadership and oversight as well as governmental regulations.
- Learning for Adults: You can study how adults learn, what instructional methods are most effective, and what sort of cognitive and emotional developments take place during adulthood.
- Literacy and Language Leadership: This course may teach you to work with students at different reading levels, develop literacy intervention plans, and establish literacy programs.
- Organizational Management: Whether you work in a K-12 school, a college, or another setting, it can be helpful to know how to build teams, make decisions, and lead through change.
- Planning and Evaluating Educational Programs: You’ll learn how to develop and lead various programs and then objectively analyze the results.
- School Culture: In this class, you may explore ways to develop healthy relationships among a school’s staff and students as well as families and the surrounding community.
- Research Methods: You’ll probably take several research-focused classes that teach you to design studies, interpret data, and communicate your findings.
Your curriculum might be significantly different from what’s on this example list. Classes vary based on the school, the concentration area, and the student’s professional interests.
Admissions Requirements
There is an application process for college studies. Some doctoral programs are quite selective, so you it’s beneficial to put your best foot forward with the materials you submit. Here are some common admissions requirement for doctoral programs:
- Accredited graduate degree, plus transcripts from all colleges attended
- Application form with personal data
- GRE score (not required by all colleges)
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume with relevant work experience
For some programs, a current license for working as a teacher or a school administrator may be required.
Online Doctoral Programs in Education Accreditation
Many colleges that offer EdD programs are regionally accredited, and you can count on a university with regional accreditation to offer a solid education.
Regional accreditation is a widely respected form of school credentialing. It shows that a college or university has met or exceeded the standards for a well-run institution that does a good job of educating its learners. Licensing agencies, employers, and other colleges recognize coursework from accredited schools.
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You can verify a school’s accreditation status on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation’s website.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Doctorates can be expensive, but assistance is available to students who qualify. When thinking about the cost of going back to school, filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) could be one of your initial steps.
Government grants aren’t often available for graduate programs, but there may be some exceptions for those in the education field. More likely, you might be able to secure loans from the state and federal governments. Some colleges offer large stipends to doctoral students. This often requires a commitment to teaching or research assistance, so it’s less likely for online students. Still, it could be worth looking into.
You might also be able to apply for scholarships from your school or another organization. Fellowships to support your research might be another option. Also, some school districts and other employers may contribute toward tuition expenses.
What Is an EdD Degree?
A Doctor of Education (EdD) degree is a terminal degree in the field of education. It’s a professional doctorate intended for practitioners, such as teachers, school administrators, curriculum designers, policy advocates, and others.
Much like in an online masters in education program, during an online doctoral program in education, students take advanced classes on education-related topics, such as school leadership, instructional methodology, and literacy development. They also study research strategies. Participants may complete a capstone project or a dissertation that addresses a problem in the education realm. Some doctoral programs include internships.
What Can You Do with a Doctor of Education Degree?
A doctorate could help you further your career as a teacher or administrator in K-12 schools. Some graduates also work as curriculum developers or educational consultants to support school professionals.
Colleges may also have employment opportunities for professionals with an EdD. Higher education administration is one job category to consider. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that most postsecondary education administrators earn between $59,150 and $190,770. Teaching in the education department could be another possible role.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Doctorate in Education?
Students can generally earn an online Ed.D. degree in 3 to 5 years. Full-time programs typically take between 3 and 3.5 years, but some are a bit shorter.
Online colleges may allow you to complete your coursework more quickly. The classes for degrees in education online are often organized in 8 week blocks throughout the year. When there’s a capstone project or a dissertation required, the time it takes to finish can vary depending on how long it takes you to complete your research and writing.
What’s the Difference Between an EdD vs. PhD in Education?
Terminal degrees in this field include the Doctor of Education (EdD) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education.
| Doctor of Education | PhD in Education |
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Some college professors do have EdD degrees.
Is an EdD Worth It?
Yes, an EdD degree is worth it for many students. Education leaders play a special role in directing the learning activities of schools and other organizations. If you’re interested in taking on this responsibility, then a doctorate in education could help you grow your professional qualifications and expertise.
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Also, jobs in this field are growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 7% growth rate for higher education administrators, instructional coordinators, and training managers over the next ten years. For postsecondary teachers, the predicted growth rate is 12%. So, an Ed.D. is worth it for many professionals considering an advanced degree.
Universities Offering Online Doctor of Education 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.
Baylor University offers a Doctor of Education in Learning and Organizational Change program online. The program aims to teach knowledge and skills needed to provide leadership in instruction, the dynamics of organizational change, and contextual learning and design. The completion of 54 credit hours is required, which can often be done in 36 months of full-time attendance.
Baylor University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Bradley University offers an online program for a Doctor of Education. Concentrations include Higher Education Administration or PreK to 12 Educational Administration and Leadership. The program emphasizes ethical research, social justice, practical strategies, and research-driven methodology. The curriculum spans 48 credit hours and typically culminates in an internship and research project.
Bradley University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Capella University offers an EdD program online. Specializations include Adult Education, Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Performance Improvement Education, and Reading and Literacy. The curriculum consists of 16 courses, which may be completed with flexible guided or self-paced attendance options.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Carson–Newman University offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Administrative Leadership. The program is designed to increase knowledge and skills for experienced educators intending to pursue leadership roles in education environments. Classes are typically 8 weeks long and, on average, required coursework and field experience are completed in 3 years of full-time attendance.
Carson-Newman University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Grand Canyon University offers an Ed.D. program online. Concentrations include Higher Education, Healthcare Administration, Organizational Development, Behavioral Health, Adult Learning, K to 12 Education, Christian Ministry, and Special Education. The program requires the completion of 20 courses. Research skills are typically embedded in all parts of the program, which is completed in an average of 3 years.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Johns Hopkins University offers an online program for a Doctor of Education. Potential courses include Global Education Policy and Analysis, Social Context of Urban Education, Technology Leadership for School Improvement, and Evidence-Based Teaching. On average, the 54 required credits can be completed in 4 years of part-time attendance.
Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Kennesaw State University offers an online program for a Doctor of Education. Specializations include Teacher Leadership, Instructional Technology, and Secondary and Middle Grades Education. Depending on the concentration, the completion of 48 to 66 credit hours is required. Required coursework, a dissertation, and an in-field internship may be completed in 3 to 4 years.
Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Liberty University offers an EdD program online. Concentrations include Leadership, Instructional Design and Technology, Educational Psychology, and Special Education. Classes are typically 8 weeks long, and, on average, the 54 required credit hours may be completed in just 2.5 years of full-time attendance.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Marymount University offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation program online. Common courses include Leading an Organization, Ethical Leadership and Social Justice, Transformative Leadership, and Approaches to Research Methods. The program may help prepare for careers in school district administration, educational policy, curriculum development, or consulting.
Marymount University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Morehead State University offers an Ed.D program online. Specializations include Adult and Higher Education, PK to 12 Administration, Educational Technology, and Exceptional Child leadership. The program consists of 60 credit hours, which may be completed in 3 years of full-time attendance. A letter of introduction reflecting a desire to study in a doctoral program is required for admission.
Morehead State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission.
Northeastern University offers a Doctor of Education program primarily online but with occasional in-person residency requirements. Concentrations include Integrative Studies, Workplace Learning, Transformative School Leadership, Innovative Teaching, and Higher Education Administration. The program typically offers admission each year for fall and winter terms.
Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Northwest Nazarene University offers an online program for a Doctor of Education. Classwork is designed to teach advanced study, research, teaching, and leadership skills. The program requires the completion of 36 credit hours, which may be completed in just 26 months of full-time attendance.
NNU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Nova Southeastern University offers an Ed.D. program online. Concentrations include Curriculum and Teaching, Educational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, and Reading Education. Either a traditional dissertation or a final strategic research project may be completed as a capstone. GRE scores are typically not required for admission.
Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
Sam Houston State University offers an online program for a Doctor of Education. Specialties include Developmental Education Administration and Instructional Systems Design and Technology. Potential courses include Developmental Education, Outcome Assessment, Statistical Methods, and Contemporary Issues in Higher Education. A minimum of 60 credit hours is required.
Sam Houston State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
South College offers a Doctor of Education program online. Specializations include Adult Learning and Development, Higher Education Leadership, Teaching and Learning, Organizational Leadership, and Educational Leadership. Courses may be completed in an accelerated format, and a dissertation is required. On average, the 90 required credit hours are completed in 3 years of full-time attendance.
South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Illinois–Urbana Champaign offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership. Courses typically cover topics like curriculum design, instruction, educational policy, and ethical leadership. The program usually requires the completion of 64 credit hours, 2 written qualifying exams, a final oral examination, and a doctoral dissertation.
The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of New England offers an EdD program online. The program is designed to help prepare for leadership roles in settings such as K to 12 schools, higher education, healthcare, nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and social work agencies. This curriculum consists of 51 credit hours and a dissertation defense that is typically presented virtually at the completion of the program.
The University of New England is accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Phoenix offers an online program for a Doctor of Education. The program typically employs the scholar-practitioner model to help prepare for leadership roles in a variety of educational organizations. Classes are commonly 8 weeks long and the 54 required credit hours are completed in an average of 42 months.
The University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of West Georgia offers a Doctor of Education program online with a concentration in Higher Education Administration. The program is designed to help prepare for leadership roles at universities, community colleges, or other secondary educational institutions. The curriculum spans 60 credits of core, research, and dissertation courses.
The University of West Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Walden University offers an Ed.D program online but with required occasional face-to-face residencies. Specializations include Early Childhood Education, Educational Administration and Leadership, and Educational Technology. Courses aim to align research methodologies to questions and hypotheses to address issues in educational practice.The program requires the completion of at least 79 credit hours.
Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your Doctor of Education Degree Online
If you’re an educator who wants to rise to the top of your field, then you might consider getting your education doctorate.
An EdD is a professional degree that can help you develop invaluable leadership skills that are applicable in the classroom, in the education system, and in the community. Educators are busy, but that doesn’t have to be a roadblock to earning your degree. Online EdD programs make learning flexible and achievable.
You can start looking at online EdD programs from accredited universities today to find the one that best suits your interests and goals.
