doctorate in education terminology

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

Career Advice & Advancement Industry Advice Education

If you’re interested in pursuing a doctoral degree in education, one of the first questions you’ll face is: Should I apply for a Doctor of Education (EdD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education?

The decision between these two culminating degrees can be career-defining as each serves a very different purpose despite being equivalent in level. In order to ensure you choose the path that best aligns with your future goals and career path, it’s important to take the time to first understand the differences in program curriculum and future career opportunities that relate to each degree.

Read on to learn about the defining qualities and key differences of an EdD and a PhD in Education to determine which program is the right fit for you.

EdD vs. PhD in Education

A Doctor of Education  is a professional degree designed for practitioners pursuing educational leadership roles. A Doctor of Philosophy in Education , on the other hand, is designed to prepare graduates for research and teaching roles.

“With a PhD, [students are] reviewing the research, seeing a gap in the literature, and generating new knowledge based on a theory or hypothesis,” says Joseph McNabb , a professor of practice in Northeastern’s Graduate School of Education . “Conversely, an EdD student starts with a problem of practice and [works to learn] the skills it will take to resolve that complex problem of practice.”

What is an EdD degree?

An EdD, or Doctor of Education , is a professional doctorate best suited for experienced educators and mid- to senior-level working professionals who want to lead and implement change within their organization.

EdD candidates work in a broad range of fields ranging from K-12 and higher education to nonprofits, government, healthcare, and the military. What each share is a desire to transform their everyday environment and apply the lessons learned through their doctorate to a complex, critical issue facing their workplace. 

The EdD is practice-based. Students in an EdD program don’t want to just research their area of interest, but leverage that research in ways that could positively influence their community or organization’s decision-making process.

Learn More: 5 Tips for Choosing Your EdD Concentration

Those who pursue an EdD focus on qualitative, exploratory research. Students collect data and conduct individual interviews, observations, or focus groups to construct hypotheses and develop strategies that can help solve or clarify a specific problem of practice, such as how to support student veterans transitioning to civilian life or how to foster more female leaders in higher education—two dissertation topics recently explored through Northeastern’s EdD program .

What can you do with an EdD Degree?

While an EdD can be applied to a variety of industries and career options—such as K-12, higher education, the nonprofit sector, or civic service—there are several job titles you’ll likely come across within your cohort of classmates. They include:

• Postsecondary education administrators: Postsecondary education administrators work in colleges or universities, and typically oversee faculty research, academics, admissions, or student affairs. Some job titles that fall under this category include president, vice president, provost, and dean. The average annual salary for a postsecondary education administrator rings in at $102,610 .
• Elementary and secondary school education administrators: Superintendents, who are the top executives of a school district, fall under this category. They manage academic programs, spending, and the staffing of all educational facilities within their district, and typically earn an average of $111,020 per year .
• Top executives : In education, a top executive could be a “chief learning officer” or “chief academic officer”—senior-level professionals who drive and develop strategies that help their organization meet critical business goals. Top executives make an average of $103,840 per year .
• Instructional coordinators : Instructional coordinators create and manage school curricula and other educational materials. They help teachers implement effective classroom learning strategies and measure the effectiveness of what’s being taught and how. The average annual salary for instructional coordinators is $74,620 .

These are just a few of the many career opportunities available to EdD graduates.

Learn More: 8 Careers You Can Pursue with a Doctorate in Education

What is a PhD in Education?

A PhD in Education is a terminal degree best suited for individuals who want to pursue a career in academia or research at the university level.

Students in PhD or doctoral programs take a more theoretical, study-based approach to learning. In most cases, their goal is to master a specific subject or add their unique findings to a body of existing literature. PhD candidates conduct original research in the hopes of driving change in their field or inspiring others to make change based on their work.

A PhD is the degree most popular amongst those who aspire to become a professor or obtain a tenure position. Through these programs, students tend to focus on getting published in well-respected journals, presenting at national conferences, and learning how to teach future educators.

What can you do with a PhD in Education?

While some of the above roles can also be earned through a PhD program, the most common job titles for PhD-holders include:

• Postsecondary teachers: Postsecondary teachers instruct students at a college or university. When they’re not in the classroom, they’re often focused on conducting research, attending conferences, and publishing scholarly papers and books. Postsecondary teachers earn an average $84,380 per year .
• Academic researcher : Researchers often have the opportunity to create their own centers or institutes, hire staff to help carry out their work, and secure funding for that work. Salaries often vary by subject area, but a general academic researcher typically earns an average of $85,234 per year .

EdD or PhD: Which is better for you?

Once you’ve explored the differences between an EdD and PhD in Education, the most relevant question to consider will be: What’s the next step I want to take in my career, and which degree can help me achieve my professional goals? The answer to this question will determine which degree program you ultimately pursue.

Earning your doctorate can pay off no matter which path you choose. Professionals with a doctoral degree earn an average of $109,668 a year —far more than master’s degree holders. Similarly, doctoral degree holders see an unemployment rate of only 1.6% compared to the national unemployment rate of 2%.

Regardless of which degree you ultimately pursue, there is enormous potential for you to advance your career in the field of education. Evaluating your needs and values will help you understand whether an EdD or PhD in Education is best suited to your personal and professional goals.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in July 2017. It has since been updated for accuracy and relevance.

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About scott w. o'connor, related articles, 5 tips for choosing your edd concentration.

What to Expect from an EdD Program

6 Benefits of Online EdD Programs

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The median annual salary for professional degree holders is $97,000. (BLS, 2020)

Doctor of Education

The degree that connects advanced research to real-world problem solving.

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Doctor of Education in Professional Studies

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• Current Students

The Doctor of Education Degree in Professional Studies (EDD) is designed to prepare educators to assume leadership roles in curriculum and instruction and educational administration in P-12 settings and leadership roles in higher education. Candidates choose to focus on one of three major tracks: Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, or Higher Education.

THE GRE IS NO LONGER REQUIRED!

Online delivery affords you the flexibility to advance your career without interrupting your current work duties. You will be engaged in a supportive, vibrant, and diverse online learning community where cohorts form lifelong bonds.

The program is organized to support the development of your research study throughout your coursework. Thus, by the end of coursework, you will have a draft of the first three chapters of your dissertation. A supportive dissertation committee will guide you to timely dissertation completion.

Candidates choose to focus on one of three major tracks: Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, or Higher Education. Click below to view course requirements for each track.

Efforts to gain professional certification aligned with employment are rewarded with credit toward your degree.

to fully admitted doctoral students pursuing the Educational Leadership track who have NECC certification. (View Details)

to fully admitted doctoral students pursuing Higher Education track who have MCCLA certification.

Tuition Reduction

Faculty and staff employed at Mississippi public community colleges are eligible to receive a reduction of one-half tuition. (View Details)

Admission to the Doctoral program begins with admission to the Graduate School. Materials required to complete an application can be emailed directly to [email protected] . Please note, THE GRE IS NO LONGER REQUIRED.

• Submit a formal application for admission by applying online  here . Note that the graduate application fee of $30 will be required at checkout.  International students interested in studying on campus should visit our  International Student Services webpage to get started.
• Request an official transcript(s) from the college or university from which you received a bachelor’s degree and from all colleges and universities from which graduate credit was received.  We recommend sending official transcripts electronically via Parchment or National Student Clearinghouse by choosing  Delta State University Graduate Admissions ( [email protected] ) as the recipient.  Hard copies may be mailed from an institution to: Delta State University Office of Graduate Studies Kent Wyatt Hall 239 Cleveland, MS 38733**  Non-U.S. transcripts are accepted through WES or ECE evaluation services (must be evaluated course-by-course).
• Minimum of two years of experience in teaching, Higher Education, or an equivalent area: Teaching Job Verification Form; Higher Ed Job Verification Form

Admission Requirements for the Doctor of Education in Professional Studies program

• Master’s or an Educational Specialist degree from an accredited college/university with at least an earned GPA of 3.25
• Official Graduate transcripts
• Minimum of two years of experience in teaching or an equivalent area: Job Verification Form
• Resume/Vita highlighting your education, work history, evidence of leadership potential, additional certifications, membership in professional associations, scholarly activities, accomplishments, and awards
• Statement of Purpose writing sample that reveals the applicant’s philosophy of education, ability to self-reflect, and ability to compose with clarity and proper grammar and mechanics. Contact Dr. Corlis Snow at [email protected] for the writing prompt.

A weighted point system will be used to evaluate each of the criteria above.

All requirements must be submitted to the Graduate Office at [email protected] .

Deadlines for submitting all admission documents are listed below.

Registration Resources

• How to register for a variable credit hour course

Academic Resources

• Doctoral Student Handbook & Dissertation Preparation Manual
• Dissertation Committee Roles & Expectations
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Comprehensive Exam

The Comprehensive Exam is given during the ELR 888 Doctoral Seminar course. The exam date is given by the course instructor.

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Dr. Corlis Snow Doctoral Program Coordinator and Chair, School of Leadership, Research, and Psychology P:  205-655-4878 E: [email protected]

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Doctoral programs.

The goal of the GSE PhD in Education is to prepare the next generation of leading education researchers. The cornerstone of the doctoral experience at the Stanford Graduate School of Education is the research apprenticeship that all students undertake, typically under the guidance of their academic advisor, but often with other Stanford faculty as well.

In this apprenticeship model, doctoral students are provided with a multi-year funding package that consists of opportunities each quarter to serve as teaching and research assistants for faculty members' courses and research projects. By this means, and in combination with the courses they take as part of their program, students are prepared over an approximately five-year period to excel as university teachers and education researchers.

The doctoral degree in Education at the GSE includes doctoral program requirements as well as a specialization, as listed below, overseen by a faculty committee from one of the GSE's three academic areas.

Doctoral programs by academic area

Curriculum studies and teacher education (cte).

• ‌ Elementary Education
• ‌ History/Social Science Education
• ‌ Learning Sciences and Technology Design
• ‌ Literacy, Language, and English Education
• ‌ Mathematics Education
• ‌ Science, Engineering and Technology Education
• ‌ Race, Inequality, and Language in Education
• ‌ Teacher Education

Developmental and Psychological Sciences (DAPS)

• ‌ Developmental and Psychological Sciences

Social Sciences, Humanities, and Interdisciplinary Policy Studies in Education (SHIPS)

• ‌ Anthropology of Education
• ‌ Economics of Education
• ‌ Education Data Science
• ‌ ‌Educational Linguistics
• ‌ Educational Policy
• ‌ Higher Education
• ‌ History of Education
• ‌ International Comparative Education
• ‌ Organizational Studies
• ‌ Philosophy of Education
• ‌ Sociology of Education

Cross-area specializations

Learning sciences and technology design (lstd).

LSTD allows doctoral students to study learning sciences and technology design within the context of their primary program of study (DAPS, CTE, or SHIPS).

Race, Inequality, and Language in Education (RILE)

RILE trains students to become national leaders in conducting research on how race, inequality, and language intersect to make both ineffective and effective educational opportunities. RILE allows students to specialize within their program of study (DAPS, CTE, or SHIPS).

Other academic opportunities

• ‌ Concentration in Education and Jewish Studies
• ‌ PhD Minor in Education
• ‌ Stanford Doctoral Training Program in Leadership for System-wide Inclusive Education (LSIE)
• ‌ Certificate Program in Partnership Research in Education
• ‌ Public Scholarship Collaborative

“I came to Stanford to work with faculty who value learning in informal settings and who are working to understand and design for it.”

Doctoral graduates were employed within four months of graduation

of those employed worked in organizations or roles related to education

For more information about GSE admissions and to see upcoming events and appointments:

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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.

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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.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
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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.

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Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership, Culture and Change

Equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to advance your career in leadership and transform your organization for optimal growth and success. The Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership, Culture, and Change (Ed.D.) Degree from Thomas Edison State University (TESU) is an online doctoral degree program providing the practical skills today’s leaders need to navigate complex organizational challenges, manage change and lead high-performing teams.

Dive into areas of concentration such as human resources management, organizational consulting, healthcare management, industrial and organizational psychology and research methods. Working professionals come to our program from a variety of fields including executives, administrators, training and development managers, educators, and consultants in industry, military, higher education and entrepreneurial enterprises, to expand their careers and become creative, innovative leaders.

Discover how an Ed.D. in Organization Leadership, Culture and Change can enable you to Lead, Achieve, and Transform your career and organization.

Program highlights:.

• Personalized Instructional Delivery: Cohort-based, adult-centric and seminar-oriented within a fully distance learning environment working with course mentors.
• Concierge Student Engagement and Service Model: Provides responsive and comprehensive academic and operational support throughout the doctoral program.
• Inquiry Systems and Models: Critical Thought and Action in Global Leadership, Culture and Change
• Integrated Orientations: Leadership, Culture and Change
• Area of Study
• Research Methods/Teaching and Consultative Professional Practice
• Scholar-Practitioner Field Project
• Scholar-Practitioner Field Project: The degree culminates in a mentor-guided academic and professionally focused field research project applying course learning to your industry or field of interest. This project can result in a publication or conference presentation.
• One Area of Study Course: Organizational Leadership, Human Resource Management, Law, Ethics and Global Society, or Quantitative Research Methods.
• New Cohort Orientation, Research Symposium and Social Networking Event, On-site and Virtual: Incoming cohort members participate in a comprehensive orientation introducing students to key dimensions of the university and school of business and management, including, but not limited to; degree program, mentoring, performance expectations, and offer best practices associated with time-management, critical thinking, academic writing, and research. The event includes Ed.D. and DBA degree current students, alumni, mentors, and staff.
• Low-cost Educational Resources: A portfolio of academic and applied course resources organized using a high-quality, cost-effective blend of e-books, articles and Open Educational Resources.
• Early Access to First Course – EDD-8000: Preliminary view and early navigation of Moodle (Learning Management System). Ed.D. students can review syllabi, modules, grading rubrics, discussion forums, mentor/faculty office hours and course resources.
• NJ State Library Cards for Ed.D. Cohort: Complimentary cohort processing and dispersal of library barcodes/cards for exclusive collections and access to electronic resources.
• Customized Moodle Navigation and NJ State Library Webinar: Student are provided with Moodle Learning Management System essentials including navigation, calendar, student dashboard, research EBSCO and ProQuest host resources. New Jersey State Library representatives will review links, catalog searches, tools and research references within the NJSL website.
• Access to Doctoral Scholar-Practitioner Community of Practice Platform: Exclusive to School of Business and Management students, the Doctoral Community of Practice Platform repository provides access to innumerable resources and tools to deliver quality business and management education that is industry-relevant and career-enabling.
• Dean’s Seminar Series: The Dean and staff deliver focused seminars throughout the academic year. Several seminar series include Dean’s Research Seminar, Academic Writing Seminar, Scholar-Practitioner Field Project, Adjunct Teaching Seminar, Publishing and Presenting Seminar, Accepted Student Seminar Series, and New Student Cohort Seminar.

Students are eligible for degree program admission and course enrollment using the following admissions criteria:

• Master’s degree in management, education, human resource management, training and development and organizational development, and/or closely related fields earned from a regionally accredited college or university
• Graduate GPA of 3.0 or above
• Assessment of prior academic coursework
• Minimum three years of leadership, management, corporate, higher education and consulting or equivalent professional experience
• Evaluation of graduate school application including undergraduate and graduate academic transcripts, essay and resume
• Applicant interview
• Official Transcripts should be sent to the Office of the Registrar. Upload essays and/or resumes here

Ed.D. Entry Terms:

• Students start in either the January or July term.
• A total of six (6) doctoral level credits, equivalent courses and/or Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) may be transferred to the Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership Culture and Change degree.
• Doctoral-level course equivalent transfer credit and/or PLA credit accepted only through evaluation and approval by the Dean, School of Business and Management or designate.
• Students admitted to the Ed.D. degree program progress through the curriculum with the cohort to which they were admitted.
• Students earning a C grade in a course will follow the C grade policy.
• The program must be completed within seven years of admission into the program.
• Integrate leadership, culture and change management in organizational design, strategy and planning.
• Analyze the global organizational environment and recommend technologically sustainable leadership, cultural engagement and change management.
• Evaluate effective communication skills in key industry-, education- and market-related formats.
• Analyze ethical behavior in organizational leadership, change management and cultural development.
• Synthesize, generate and interpret theories, models and technologies that leverage research methods and experiential data for evidence-based decisions.
• Design and articulate individual and cultural differences necessary to create a diverse, inclusive and equitable organization.

The Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership Culture and Change degree is composed of sixteen 3-credit courses (48 credit program).

The Domains are:

• Domain I: Inquiry Systems and Models: Critical Thought and Action in Global Leadership, Culture and Change (3 credits)
• Domain II: Integrated Orientations: Leadership, Culture and Change (21 credits)
• Domain III: Area of Study (9 credits)
• Domain IV: Research Methods Course/Teaching and Consultative Professional Practice (6 credits)
• Domain V: Scholar-Practitioner Field Project (9 credits)

*EDD-9050: Seminar in Scholar-Practitioner Research This course can be registered for two (2) consecutive terms. If after two (2) registrations, two (2) eight (8) week registrations, a student has not passed the course, the student will be withdrawn from the program and referred to the Dean to determine continuance in the program.

**Scholar-Practitioner Field Project The final three courses (EDD-9100, EDD-9200 and EDD-9300) can be completed in the 8-week course format. For students requiring additional course time to complete these courses, they can petition the Dean to re-register in a course. Students can register for these courses for three (3) consecutive terms, first (1) registration and two (2) additional registrations. If after three (3) eight (8) week registrations, a student has not passed the course, the student will be withdrawn from the program and referred to the dean to determine continuance in the program.

One 3-credit course per term

Domain I: Inquiry Systems and Models: Critical Thought and Action in Global Leadership, Culture and Change – 3 credits

• EDD-8000: Critical Thought and Informed Action: Models of Decision Making and Organization Achievement (3)

Domain II. Integrated Orientations: Leadership, Culture and Change – 21 credits

• OML-8020: Seminar in Leadership and Culture: Organizational and National Perspectives (3)
• EDD-8600: Seminar in Organizational Psychology: Psychology of Leadership, Organizational Learning and Organizational Behavior (3)
• EDD-8030: Seminar in Organizational Dynamics: Leadership, Culture and Change (3)
• EDD-8040: Seminar in Strategic Planning and Organizational Effectiveness (3)
• OML-8030: Seminar in Leading Change for Innovation, Sustainability and Competitive Advantage (3)
• EDD-8200: Seminars in Cultures of Change: Anatomies of Transition and Transformation (3)
• EDD-8500: Seminar in Global Leadership: Enigmas and Exemplars (3)

Domain III. Areas of Study – 9 credits

• EDD-8800: Cultural Competency in the 21st Century (Required Course) (3)
• AoS I. Course Choice (Elective Course)  (3)
• EDD-9050: Seminar in Scholar – Practitioner Research (Required Course) (3)

Domain IV. Research Methods/Instructional and Consultative Practice – 6 credits

• Qualitative Research Method and Application (3) or
• EDD-8080: Teaching Adults: Archetypes, Tools and Tactics - Andragogy Lab (3)
• Action/Applied Research and Application (3) or
• EDD-8090: Organizational Consulting: Process Consultation, Avocation and Business Sustainability (3)

Domain V. Scholar-Practitioner Field Project - Field Research: Research Methods, Application and Completion  – 9 credits

• EDD-9100: Scholar-Practitioner Field Project I - Research Methods, Project Identification, Framing and Site Preparation (3)
• EDD-9200: Scholar-Practitioner Field Project II - Research Methods Supervised Practicum: Data Collection and Analysis (3)
• EDD-9300: Scholar-Practitioner Field Project III - Project Completion, Presentation and Publishing (3)

Total Credits: 48

• Ed.D. students must earn a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and be in good standing at TESU to be certified for graduation.
• All program requirements must be successfully completed, including the final Scholar-Practitioner Field Project.

Once admitted to the program, follow the steps on our Getting Started page to create your account with Online Student Services, access your academic evaluation, and make an advising appointment.

Telephone Appointment with Dean

You are invited to speak with Dean Williams concerning the Doctor of Education degree program.

Schedule an Appointment

About the Ed.D. Program

Estimated Cost of Degree:

• $50 application fee
• $850 per credit
• $298 graduation audit fee

Excludes books or other fees View all tuition and fees »

Entirely Online

All courses are asynchronous with occasional synchronous class meetings.

Transfer Credits:

Up to 6 doctoral level credits

View the EdD Handbook

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Degree Program Profile Sheet

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Doctor of Philosophy in Education

The Johns Hopkins School of Education’s full-time PhD program offers an individually tailored learning experience based on a student’s interest in finding solutions to pressing education problems. Select applicants receive full tuition and a stipend.

The School of Education will pause admission to the Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) program for the 2025-26 academic year while we add several programmatic improvements. The next intake for admission to the PhD program will be for students who want to matriculate in the Fall 2026 semester. The online application will open in August 2025 to begin accepting submissions, and the application completion deadline will be December 16, 2025. Please complete our Request for Information Form to receive updates and announcements for the next admission period.

The program provides rigorous interdisciplinary training that develops students’ abilities to conduct evidence-based research on real-world educational challenges. Instruction and mentorship emphasizes the development and evaluation of policies and practices that address real-world educational problems.

Students benefit from a one-to-one apprenticeship model that pairs exceptional interdisciplinary candidates with nationally acclaimed faculty mentors, along with engaging coursework, sophisticated methodological training, and cohort-based learning.

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

Learn about our PhD students.

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.

International Teaching & Global Leadership Cohort Info Session

Education Policy Info Session

Doctor of Education Info Session

Core Faculty

Jennifer adams, phd.

Associate Professor Director, International Teaching and Global Leadership

Affiliation

Innovative Teaching & Leadership

International Teaching & Global Leadership

Robert Balfanz, PhD

Professor Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of Schools

Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership

Education Policy & Politics, Research, Evaluation & Assessment, Social Context of Education

Ashley Rogers Berner, PhD

Associate Professor Director, Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy

Institute for Education Policy, SOE Leadership

Curriculum Studies, Education Policy & Politics, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Rebecca Cruz, PhD

Assistant Professor

Center for Safe and Healthy Schools, Innovative Teaching & Leadership

Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education, Special Education

Marcia Davis, PhD

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

Learning & Instruction, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Norma L. Day-Vines, PhD

Professor Associate Dean for Diversity and Faculty Development

SOE Leadership

Counseling & Human Development

Hunter Gehlbach, PhD

Professor Faculty Lead, PhD Program

Advanced Studies in Education

Learning & Instruction, Measurement & Research Methodologies

Odis Johnson, Jr., PhD

Bloomberg Distinguished Professor Executive Director, Johns Hopkins Center for Safe and Healthy Schools Director, Institute in Critical Quantitative, Computational, and Mixed Methodologies

Center for Safe and Healthy Schools, SOE Leadership

Education Policy & Politics, Measurement & Research Methodologies, Social Context of Education

Richard Lofton, PhD

Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education

Douglas J. Mac Iver, PhD

Center for Social Organization of Schools

Curriculum Studies, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Martha Abele Mac Iver, PhD

Associate Professor Associate Dean of Research

Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Olivia Marcucci, PhD

Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Social Context of Education

Ebony McGee, PhD

Counseling & Human Development, Postsecondary Education, Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Stephen Morgan, PhD

Bloomberg Distinguished Professor

Measurement & Research Methodologies, Social Context of Education

Jonathan Plucker, PhD

Research Professor Faculty Lead, Master of Science in Education Policy

Counseling & Educational Studies

Education Policy & Politics, Gifted Education, Learning & Instruction

Eric Rice, PhD

Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Joshua C. Schuschke, PhD

Educational Technology

Alexandra Shelton, PhD

Learning & Instruction, Special Education

Angela R. Watson, PhD

Assistant Research Professor

Institute for Education Policy

Education Policy & Politics

Program Overview

With its goal of pursuing big ideas and sharing knowledge to address real-world challenges, Johns Hopkins University takes pride in its founding mission as the U.S.’s first research university. The full-time Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education at the Johns Hopkins School of Education embraces that tradition. We offer a world-class, research-focused program that prepares exceptional scholars to investigate and develop policies and practices that improve educational outcomes from pre-K through secondary school and beyond.

Students draw insights from different disciplines (e.g., educational psychology, learning sciences, sociology of education), synthesizing their knowledge to craft multidisciplinary, evidence-based approaches to address educational policies and practices — particularly those that can improve outcomes for historically underserved populations. Immersion in modern research methods — advanced statistical techniques, open science approaches, and data science — facilitates students’ capacities to argue for research-based educational reforms.

Students benefit from the mentorship of nationally acclaimed researchers in an apprenticeship model as well as collaborative learning opportunities from courses, research groups, and their cohort. Our graduates go on to careers in higher education as professors, policymakers, and influential scholars at research-intensive universities, institutes, and centers.

All PhD students at the School of Education are eligible for a fellowship for up to four years. The fellowship includes a yearly stipend and will cover tuition and fees. The fellowship also covers individual health, dental, and vision insurance. All PhD students must be registered full time and be in good academic standing every semester to continue to be eligible for their fellowship.

Through our PhD program, students acquire cutting-edge research skills that position them for tenure-track faculty positions in higher education, policymaking roles with state agencies or school systems, and leadership positions in educational research organizations.

• Research and Post Secondary Teaching
• University Professor
• University Researcher
• Policy Analyst

“ What set my experience apart was the chance to work with remarkable mentors who are not only impactful researchers in the field, but also genuinely care about me as a person.

Graduate School

• Resources to Prepare for Graduate School
• Adonara Mucek, Ph.D. Geology '17
• Adriana Mendoza, Ph.D. Mathematics '14
• Andrew Olsen
• Becca Maher ('21, Ph.D.)
• Bryan Lynn, Ph.D. Integrative Biology
• Celeste Frazier Barthel, Ph.D. Education '21
• Diane Brandt
• Francesca Germano, Toxicology, M.S.
• Garrett Rogers
• Jafra Thomas
• Jen Hayes, Horticulture, PhD
• Jordan Jimmie
• Jordan Spradlin, Public Health, MPH
• Kalina Fahey, Psychology, Ph.D.
• Katie Stelling, Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Ph.D.
• Kelsey Contreras
• Layla Ghazi
• Marie Tosa, Ph.D. Wildlife Sciences
• Sara Letton
• Tiara Walz, Ph.D. Public Health
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• GRAD 420 - Graduate School Preparation
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• GRAD 516 - Graduate Teaching Seminar
• GRAD 520 - Responsible Conduct of Research
• GRAD 521 - Research Data Management
• GRAD 542 - The Inclusive College Classroom
• GRAD 543 - Dialogue Facilitation in Professional Contexts: Skills and Practice for Graduate Students
• GRAD 550 - Introduction to Online Course Development and Facilitation
• GRAD 560 - Theories of Teaching and Learning
• GRAD 561 - Course Design and Methods
• GRAD 599 - Creating Happiness
• GRAD 599 - Cultivating Productive and Positive Academic Relationships for Graduate Success
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• WR 599 - Scientific and Technical Research Writing
• WR 599 - Writing Workshop for Thesis and Dissertation Writers
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30 Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs [2024 Guide]

When your life is committed to teaching students, earning an online doctorate in education may be the next natural step in your career development.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Education Programs

1. andrews university.

Andrews University is a private university in Berrien Springs, Michigan, that is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Founded in 1874, Andrews offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs for its more than 3,300 enrolled students. More than 70 graduate and post-graduate majors can be pursued.

• EdD in Curriculum and Instructions
• EdD in Educational Leadership
• EdD in Higher Education Administration
• EdD in Leadership
• PhD in Curriculum and Instructions
• PhD in Educational Leadership
• PhD in Higher Education Administration
• PhD in Leadership

Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Baylor University

Baylor University is a private, Baptist-affiliated research university located in Waco, Texas. Founded in 1845, Baylor is the oldest continuously operating university in the state of Texas. Students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 12 academic units.

Baylor has been ranked in 76th place on the U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” list. Annual enrollment at Baylor is just over 18,000.

• EdD in Learning and Organizational Change

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

3. Boise State University

Boise State University is a public research university in Boise, Idaho, that was founded by the Episcopal Church in 1932. The university offers more than 190 fields of study for students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees today. Current annual enrollment at Boise State is over 25,000.

• EdD in Educational Technology

Boise State University  is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

4. Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University Chicago is a private liberal arts university located in River Forest, Illinois. This former teaching college now offers more than 100 degree options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students.

Concordia was founded in 1864. Its current annual enrollment tops 6,000. Concordia is affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS).

• EdD in Leadership – Curriculum and Instruction
• EdD in Leadership – Early Childhood Education
• EdD in Leadership – Educational Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Education Technology
• EdD in Leadership – Gerontology
• EdD in Leadership – Health and Human Performance
• EdD in Leadership – Higher Education
• EdD in Leadership – Organizational Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Reading, Language and Literacy
• EdD in Leadership – Special Education
• EdD in Leadership – Sports Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Teacher Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Curriculum and Instruction
• PhD in Leadership – Early Childhood Education
• PhD in Leadership – Educational Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Education Technology
• PhD in Leadership – Gerontology
• PhD in Leadership – Health and Human Performance
• PhD in Leadership – Higher Education
• PhD in Leadership – Organizational Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Reading, Language and Literacy
• PhD in Leadership – Special Education
• PhD in Leadership – Sports Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Teacher Leadership

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Drexel University

Founded in 1891, Drexel University is a private research university based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In addition to 70 undergraduate degree programs, Drexel offers more than 100 options for master’s and doctoral studies. Drexel has an annual enrollment of more than 24,000 students.

The school is known for utilizing a cooperative education program (co-op) that allows students to take advantage of paid, full-time work experience.

• EdD in Educational Leadership and Management

Drexel University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

6. Edgewood College

Edgewood College of Madison, Wisconsin, is a Roman Catholics college that was founded by the Dominican order in 1927. Edgewood College offers more than 60 majors and 40 minors for students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Edgewood enrolls more than 2,500 students annually.

The school is known for its small class sizes, low instructor-to-student ratios, and extensive job counseling for future graduates.

Edgewood College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Grand Canyon University

With an annual enrollment topping 100,000, Grand Canyon University is best known for being one of the largest Christian universities in the world. GCU is based in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs across nine distinct colleges. GCU was founded in 1949.

• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Behavioral Health
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Christian Ministry
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Healthcare Administration
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Higher Education Leadership
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – K-12 Leadership
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Organizational Development
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Special Education
• EdD in Teaching and Learning – Adult Learning

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. John Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University is a private research university in Baltimore, Maryland, dating back to 1876. Just over 26,000 enroll in the prestigious school annually to pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a wide variety of majors covering the arts and sciences. Johns Hopkins is one of the most cited research institutions in the world.

• Doctor of Education

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

9. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University is split between two primary campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta. KSU’s annual enrollment passing 35,000 makes it one of the 50 largest universities in the United States. The school offers more than 80 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree options. Kennesaw State was founded in 1963.

• EdD in Instructional Technology
• EdD in Teacher Leadership

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

10. Liberty University

Founded in 1971, Liberty University offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 17 colleges. Liberty offers 289 of its 550 total programs fully online. An annual enrollment number topping 100,000 solidifies Liberty’s reputation as one of the largest evangelical Christian universities in the world.

• EdD in Community Care and Counseling
• EdD in Curriculum and Instruction – Special Education
• PhD in Education – Organizational Leadership
• PhD in Education – Special Education

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

11. Maryville University

Maryville University is a private university located in Town and Country, Missouri, with a history dating back to 1872. The university currently offers more than 90 degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels to more than 6,400 enrolled students annually. Maryville’s student population includes students from all 50 states.

• Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership

Maryville University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

12. Morehead State University

Morehead State University is a public university in Morehead, Kentucky, that was founded in 1887. MSU enrolls more than 9,600 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are offered across four schools at Morehead. U.S. News & World Report ranks Morehead State in 19th place among public regional universities in the South.

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

13. National University

National University is a growing network of nonprofit institutions headquartered in San Diego, California. Established in 1971, NU has over 30,000 students enrolled and over 220,000 alumni from around the world. The university offers a variety of online options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

• EdD in Instructional Design

National University  is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

14. Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University is a private Christian university located in Nampa, Idaho, that was founded in 1913. NNU is one of eight liberal arts colleges in the United States affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Annual enrollment at NNU is just over 2,000.

NNU currently offers more than 70 degree programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies.

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

15. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is a private university with a main campus in Davie, Florida. Founded in 1964, Nova’s annual student enrollment has grown to over 20,000. Nova is comprised of 18 total colleges, centers, and schools offering more than 150 degree options for bachelors, master’s, and doctoral students.

Nova Southeastern University enjoys the distinction of being classified among both the R2: Doctoral Universities for high research activity and the “community engaged” universities by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

• EdD in Curriculum and Teaching
• EdD in Higher Education Leadership
• EdD in Instructional Technology & Distance Education
• EdD in Organizational Leadership
• EdD in Reading Education
• EdD in Special Education

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

16. Regent University

Founded in 1977, Regent University is a private Christian university located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Regent’s annual enrollment hovers near 8,630 students. A variety of associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees spanning 70 courses of study are available for Regent students.

Regent’s online graduate education program is ranked 21st in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

• PhD in Education

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

17. Rowan University

Rowan University is a public research university in Glassboro, New Jersey, with an annual enrollment topping 9,400. Founded in 1923, Rowan offers students dozens of robust options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 12 colleges.

Rowan also operates a Division of Global Learning and Partnerships for graduate and remote learning. U.S. News ranks Rowan 187 on its Best Colleges ranking.

• EdD in Educational Leadership – Community College Leadership Initiative
• EdD in Educational Leadership – Higher Education
• EdD in Educational Leadership – Nurse Educator
• EdD in Educational Leadership – P-12

Rowan University  is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education, a unit of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

18. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University is a public university in Huntsville, Texas, with a history as a teaching college that dates back to 1879. SHSU is a member of the Texas State University System. More than 20,000 students are enrolled across Sam Houston’s more than 80 undergraduate, 59 master’s, and 10 doctoral programs.

• EdD in Developmental Education Administration
• EdD in Instructional Systems Design and Technology

Sam Houston State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. St Thomas University

St. Thomas University is a private Catholic university in Miami Gardens, Florida, offering 23 undergraduate majors, 24 graduate majors, and several doctoral programs. Founded in 1961, STU enrolls more than 4,200 students annually. The university’s Miami Gardens campus was once the long-term training camp home of the Miami Dolphins.

Formerly known as Biscayne College, St. Thomas University has enrolled students from more than 70 countries.

• EdD in Leadership and Innovation

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

20. Texas A&M University Commerce

More than 12,000 students enroll annually at Texas A&M University–Commerce. This public research university in Commerce, Texas, was founded in 1889. It is comprised of more than five academic colleges offering degrees in more than 100 subjects and disciplines.

Degree paths for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral are offered. Texas A&M University–Commerce has been ranked the top school in Texas for teaching education by the Directory of U.S. Colleges Database Online Magazine.

• EdD in Educational Administration

Texas A&M University – Commerce  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

21. Trevecca Nazarene University

Trevecca Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts college located in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1901, TNU is one of eight liberal arts colleges in the United States affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Trevecca is divided into six schools offering associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.

• EdD in Leadership and Professional Practice

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

22. Triden University

Trident University is an online university based in Cypress, California, that was founded in 1996. Trident offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees for its more than 6,800 enrolled students annually. Roughly 75 percent of Trident’s enrollment is comprised of active and retired military personnel.

The school offers a fully online learning experiences across four academic colleges.

Trident University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

23. Union University

Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, is a private evangelical school with an annual enrollment topping 3,377. Union University has been ranked 14th among Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News more than 19 times! The school currently offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a variety of disciplines.

• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Instructional Leadership
• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Leadership in School Reform
• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Teacher Leadership
• EdD in Higher Education

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

24. University of Dayton

Ohio’s University of Dayton is a private Roman Catholic research university that was founded by the Society of Mary in 1850. UD currently enrolls more than 11,306 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees covering more than 80 academic programs in the arts and sciences are offered by UD.

• EdD in Leadership for Organizations

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

25. University of Florida

The University of Florida boasts an alumni list that includes Tim Tebow, Erin Andrews, and Emmitt Smith. This research university located in Gainesville, Florida, has a history dating back to 1853. The nearly 57,000 students who enroll at UF annually can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees spanning a variety of majors and disciplines.

• EdD in Teachers, Schools, and Society

The  University of Florida  is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

26. University of Houston

The University of Houston is the main institution of the University of Houston System. Founded in 1927, this public research university boasts an annual enrollment of more than 46,000. More than 282 degree programs are offered at UH for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies.

The Princeton Review has ranked the University of Houston as one of America’s best colleges. The Academic Ranking of World Universities has placed UH among the Top 50 American Research Universities.

• EdD in Professional Leadership – Literacy Education
• EdD in Professional Leadership – Social Studies/Social Education

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

27. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is the largest and oldest school within the University of Nebraska system. Founded in 1869, UNL enrolls close to 26,000 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are offered through more than 200 areas of study. UNL’s list of impressive past graduates includes Warren Buffett.

• EdD in Educational Administration – P-12 School Leadership
• EdD in Educational Studies – Educational Leadership and Higher Education
• PhD in Educational Studies – Educational Leadership and Higher Education

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

28. University of New England

The University of New England is a private university with a main campus in Biddeford, Maine. UNE’s history dates back to its founding in 1831. More than 13,743 students enroll annually across the school’s more than 70 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral programs.

The Brookings Institution has ranked UNE second among Maine universities and colleges in terms of increasing career earnings for graduates.

The  University of New England  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

29. University of Southern California

As the oldest private research university in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California enjoys a reputation for offering a robust assortment of bachelors, master’s, and doctoral majors. USC was founded in 1880. It currently enrolls more than 45,000 students across 17 professional schools offering hundreds of majors.

USC’s impressive alumni list includes Neil Armstrong, George Lucas, Robert Zemeckis, John Wayne, Forest Whitaker, Will Ferrell, and Abe Shinzo.

• EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership

The University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior College and University Commission.

30. Vanderbilt Peabody College

Peabody College is one of 10 colleges and schools under the Vanderbilt University umbrella. Peabody College is comprised of five academic colleges offering undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Founded in 1875, Peabody enrolls more than 2,023 students annually.

It has consistently been ranked among the best graduate schools in education by U.S. News & World Report.

• EdD in Leadership and Learning in Organizations

Vanderbilt Peabody College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Online Doctorate in Education Programs

A doctoral program can help you rise to the top of your field and give you the skills to guide teachers and students toward greater knowledge.

• Education (no specialization)

Curriculum & Instruction

Educational leadership, special education.

A number of accredited colleges and universities now offer online Doctor of Education and PhD in Education programs in a wide-range of specializations.

If your passion is for teaching, then it makes sense that you’d choose to earn your doctoral degree in education. This is a generalist degree that may allow you the opportunity to customize your studies or choose an area of specialization. Concentration options may include higher education, administration and classroom technology.

Do you have your sights set on becoming a school administrator? Getting this online degree in education can help qualify you for the job. With a doctorate, you could also consider a job as an instructional coordinator or a special education director. In higher education, you might become an academic dean or a professor.

Outside of the school setting, you could use this degree to improve your abilities as a corporate trainer. If you’re interested in public policy, you could help shape new education laws and initiatives.

The core courses for this degree program may cover topics like education theory, curriculum assessment, classroom diversity, education law and school leadership. You may have the opportunity to choose several electives on topics that are of interest to you.

Your self-selected classes may address early childhood education, social development, special education, literacy instruction, school finance or other relevant issues.

Effective teaching requires that educators use appropriate materials and convey information in meaningful ways. You can explore these concepts in a doctoral program about curriculum and instruction.

This degree can be a good choice for people who want to head up curriculum and instruction departments in school districts or education departments. For example, you could become an instructional coach or a curriculum director.

The knowledge you gain can also increase your capabilities as a principal or a superintendent. Alternatively, you could teach in the education department of a college.

Not all doctoral candidates who choose this program work in formal school settings. This course of study can also be useful if you run education initiatives in museums or community organizations. Your knowledge in this area may also help you shape public policy or become a trusted consultant.

To prepare for these responsibilities, you will probably take courses about the ideas and theories that shape curriculum selection. You may also study how to evaluate whether an instructional approach is working and think about how to conduct research in this area.

The classes may cover additional topics, such as cultivating a team approach to curriculum selection and using technology in the classroom.

School systems and other educational programs need strong leaders who can take the helm of their organizations and make reliable decisions. To become qualified for this type of role, you may want to pursue your degree in educational leadership. Under your direction, you can help organizations thrive and learners take their knowledge to the next level.

Not surprisingly, this degree is best for those who want to assume leadership roles within organizations. Often, those organizations will be traditional school settings; for example, you could be a school principal or a superintendent at the district, regional or state level.

You could also serve as an administrator at levels of education outside of the K–12 bracket — for example, working for a university or a daycare chain.

Getting your educational leadership doctorate has value in non-school settings as well. You could work in a corporation to head up employee development or serve as a training consultant. Another option would be to work as a community services manager who coordinates outreach efforts.

Many of your courses will likely focus on the art and practice of organizational leadership. You will likely discuss how to use creative thinking, make decisions and spearhead changes for the betterment of educational systems.

Some groups of students need individualized instruction or extra classroom supports. Schools’ special education programs are designed to meet those needs. By enrolling in a doctoral program, you can learn to provide strong, effective, student-focused leadership for these programs.

You may be able to pursue a concentration in an area like early childhood or visual impairment.

Special education leaders work in schools and the organizations that support them. You could be a special education director or serve as the administrator of a special-needs school. Working as a curriculum developer can equip classroom teachers with materials that are accessible to students of all ability levels.

Studying special needs can also prepare you to provide leadership in community organizations. You might work in the area of behavioral health or early intervention. You could also make it your mission to shape policies and advocate for special-needs learners at the state or federal level.

During your time in school, you’ll need to study the ethics and laws that should guide special education practice. You may also talk about ways to oversee special education teachers, manage change in your department, make good use of your financial resources and ensure that all students are receiving an appropriate education.

Courses for a Doctorate in Education

Your doctoral program may be largely tailored to your area of interest. Even still, your school will probably have a core set of doctoral classes that every student in your program will need to take. This will probably include some courses that focus on leadership and effective practice in education.

There will also likely be classes that concentrate on conducting research and preparing your dissertation or another final project. Your curriculum may resemble the list below.

• Change and Transition in Schools: Change is inevitable in learning institutions, and your leadership can make all the difference in how your employees respond to times of transition. In addition to learning how to guide others through these situations, you may also discuss how to push for changes that will benefit your staff or students.
• Culture and Diversity in Education: Classrooms are often filled with students from a wide variety of backgrounds, and that can affect educational outcomes. In this course, you can explore how to be sensitive to students’ cultures, and you can discuss how to ensure that education is accessible to all students.
• Education Law: Working in a school system requires abiding by a host of regulations. You’ll need to comply with federal and state laws related to education and employment, and you’ll also need to obey your local school board’s rules. In this course, you may talk about the rights and responsibilities of each member of your school community. Other topics may include navigating legal developments, creating policies for your organization and dealing with legal concerns that may arise.
• Evaluating Learning Outcomes: A particular curriculum or instructional method is only as good as the outcomes it produces. Your studies in this course can teach you to assess programs and procedures to determine whether they’re producing desirable results. It can also help you learn how to approach adjustments when things aren’t working as well as you’d hoped.
• Organizational Leadership: Ultimately, school systems are organizations, so you’ll need to consider team dynamics and administrative structure as you lead. This course may address communication, organizational culture, change management and ethical decision-making.
• Research Design: A doctoral degree usually involves drawing on others’ research and conducting your own studies. You’ll probably take classes to help you understand the research process, learn from scholarly reports, choose an area of study, design informative experiments and present your findings.

You’ll probably have the opportunity to select elective classes, and these may tie in closely with your research area for your dissertation. If you choose a degree concentration, you may have fewer free electives and will instead take classes that are specific to that specialization track.

What Can I Do with a Doctorate in Education?

School roles.

School administration is one of the most popular career paths for this degree. You could become a principal in a K–12 school or work as the superintendent of the district. Superintendents are needed at the regional and state level as well.

Your doctoral degree may also prepare you to take leadership roles over specific school departments. For example, you could become an instructional coordinator, a special education director or a classroom technology director. You could also look for a job as a head teacher.

As an administrator, you could also oversee college operations. Potential roles for you may include president, vice president, provost or academic dean.

Programs for young children need strong leadership as well. You could head up a preschool facility or a daycare center. These roles might be done at the local level or in the upper management of a childcare chain. Tutoring programs have similar needs.

Writing curricula is another way that you can contribute to school settings. Good curriculum programs support both kids and teachers.

Community Roles

Education continues outside the school walls. In organizations throughout your community, education experts are helping pass knowledge on to others.

A museum could be an interesting place for you to work. You could oversee programming to ensure that participants are engaged in meaningful experiences that help them interact with the exhibits or learn more about the world around them. Many museum programs are aimed at young learners, but outreach efforts can target adults as well.

Social services need this sort of expertise as well. Through community programs, people can learn about nutrition, childcare, job placement, literacy and other essential skills. Your work among local populations can better individual families as well as the whole community.

Education professionals work in government and public policy as well. Your expertise could be critical in determining future education policies or establishing new academic standards.

In a corporate setting, you could oversee training programs for new or experienced employees. Effective development programs can increase productivity, reduce waste and boost morale. You could also become a training consultant who works with many different companies.

Academic Roles

Although many doctoral graduates stay in professional practice, others choose an academic track for their careers. This is often done in university settings.

You could be a professor who teaches new students how to become teachers or to improve their skills in education. Your responsibilities might involve teaching undergraduate or graduate students.

Conducting research can be an important career path as well. Your studies may help schools learn more about reaching vulnerable populations, educating special-needs students, supporting teaching staff, engaging parents, keeping kids in school or evaluating curriculum choices.

The research you perform may also play a role in shaping public policy.

Doctorate in Education Salary

It’s often said that people don’t go into teaching for the salary, and, indeed, basic teaching salaries are sometimes low. Despite that, increasing your education and your experience has the potential to significantly increase your earnings.

The following table provides an overview of the salary potential from the Bureau of Labor Statistics of various doctorate in education careers .

Some of these jobs are available to people with only bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Earning your doctorate may qualify you for an automatic salary bump.

The median earnings for these careers can vary significantly throughout the country. For example, elementary and secondary school administrators in New York, California, and Connecticut earn the highest salaries. Wages in areas of Texas and Louisiana may be significantly lower.

Professional Organizations for those with an Education Doctorate Degree

As a leader in education, it’s important to connect with others who feel deeply about reaching students and increasing knowledge. Through membership in a professional organization, you can have opportunities to build relationships with others in your line of work. You can also learn from others’ expertise and share your own ideas with them.

• American Association of School Administrators (AASA) : This group is comprised primarily of school superintendents but also represents education professors and the leaders of related organizations. Joining this group will give you access to industry publications, an online Career Center and professional discounts. At some membership levels, you can be enrolled in the group’s legal support program.
• American Association of University Administrators (AAUA) : Membership in this group is for anyone who has a leadership role in higher education. This includes department heads and institution administrators. As a member, you can read the online journal, participate in professional development initiatives and purchase professional or personal insurance. You may also have opportunities to visit other universities or serve on a committee.
• American Educational Research Association (AERA) : If you’re a researcher, then membership in AERA can help you improve your professional skills and share your findings with others. When you join, you can participate in the organization’s various divisions and special interest groups. You’ll receive discounts on publications and conferences, access to the job board, and political advocacy.
• International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) : Those who are passionate about using technology to enhance education tend to appreciate the support of ISTE. Membership in this group includes a magazine, webinars, discounts and videos of past conferences. You will also be able to use the group’s school standards.
• National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) : School administrators at the elementary and middle school levels learn from one another through membership in NAESP. When you join, you can network with other members through online platforms, read newsletters and magazines, take online courses and receive professional discounts on conference registration and other resources.
• National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) : If you lead at the middle school or high school level, then NASSP can be a good resource for you. As a member, you may have opportunities to attend both in-person and online training programs. The group will provide advocacy for your profession, and you can rely on the included liability insurance policy.
• National Education Association (NEA) : Not just for administrators and other leaders, NEA represents people from throughout the education profession. This includes teachers, aides, administrators, substitute teachers and more. You can join this group if you work in schools at any level, from early education through college. Benefits include personal and professional discounts, website resources, group insurance rates and political advocacy.
• National School Boards Association (NSBA) : State school board associations can participate in NSBA so their members and superintendents can benefit from networking opportunities. The group offers a magazine, a newsletter and an annual conference. NSBA also runs the Council of School Attorneys.

Joining a professional organization can benefit you as a leader. As a result, it can have positive effects on those under you as well as the students in your care. Collaborating with others has the potential to make you a better teacher, administrator and advocate for education.

Certification and Licensure Following a Doctorate in Education Degree

For some positions, just getting a doctorate isn’t enough. You’ll also need to be licensed by your state.

Teachers, especially those in public schools, need to hold state teaching certification. The same goes for school administrators. Principals and superintendents must have administrator licensure. Rules and regulations vary by state, so you’ll need to consult your local board of education to learn how to fulfill the requirements.

You may need to be certified for teaching education at the college level as well. Because this job involves training future teachers, your state may want proof that you are fully qualified for that responsibility.

If you are interested in a licensure position, it’s a good idea to consider your state’s requirements before you begin your schooling. That way, you can make sure that the program you choose will provide the proper preparation.

Admission Requirements for Online PhD or Online EdD Programs

When applying to accelerated doctoral programs in education online, you’ll want to set yourself apart from the pack by submitting a strong application that showcases your strengths.

Doctoral programs often rely on a set of qualification standards for their applicants. You will certainly need to possess a bachelor’s degree, and you may need to have a master’s degree as well. The college may be looking for minimum GPA or test scores.

For some programs, you may need to have taken certain prerequisite classes or hold a teaching license in your state.

Admissions requirements vary among schools. You may need to submit an application packet that includes many of the following elements.

• Transcripts: These should come from all of your previous college experiences at the undergraduate or graduate level.
• Resume: Providing a record of your work history demonstrates how much professional experience you are bringing into the program.
• Letters of reference: The admissions committee may want to see two or three letters. You should ask professional or academic colleagues to provide these reviews.
• Personal statement: This essay should express your motivation for pursuing doctoral studies and address a potential research topic for your dissertation.
• Test scores: Some doctoral programs require GRE scores as part of the admissions process. You may be able to qualify for a waiver if you have sufficient professional experience or high GPA scores.

In addition, there will probably be a basic application form that you must fill out. A fee may be required.

Be sure to start the application process early. It can take time to collect letters of recommendation and to craft your best essay. By beginning well in advance of the deadline, you won’t feel rushed.

After gathering your materials, submit them as soon as possible so you won’t have to worry about last-minute delays causing you to miss the application deadline.

Accreditation

For a college degree at any level, you should always choose a regionally accredited school. Whether you’re earning an undergraduate degree, a master’s or a doctorate, you need to know that you’re going to get a quality education. Regional accreditation serves as a seal of approval for a school’s academic offerings.

There are seven organizations in the U.S. that are authorized to grant regional accreditation. Your school might be accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) or one of the other accreditors.

Keep in mind that regional accreditation and national accreditation are two different things. Regional accreditation is a more rigorous process and is generally more respected by employers and other universities. For better post-graduation job prospects and the opportunity to transfer credits elsewhere, don’t settle for less than regional accreditation.

Financial Aid for an Education Doctoral Degree

Getting an EdD or a PhD can be expensive, so look into tuition help from the government, your school or an outside source.

State and federal government programs may be able to reduce your tuition costs through low-interest loans or work-study arrangements. If your financial need is great enough, you may also qualify for grants. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility.

Some schools provide stipends for doctoral students who serve as research assistants or teach classes. Opportunities may vary for online programs, so talk to your school to learn more.

Scholarships and fellowships are monetary gifts that are available to some doctoral students. To earn these, you may need to distinguish yourself as the best applicant.

Scholarships are often intended to help with tuition, and fellowships may be geared toward funding research projects or educational travel. If you need additional assistance, consider private student loans.

What Are the Cheapest Online EdD Programs?

Finding the cheapest online doctorate for you may take some digging, but keeping your tuition rates low will be worth the work. Start by looking into the public universities in your state; for many students, in-state schools offer the lowest tuition rates. Consider also whether you have any credits to transfer in.

If so, a college that allows a large number of transfer credits may be your most affordable option. Finally, inquire about financial aid options. The school that gives you the largest scholarship or work-study package or may be the best one to select.

What Is the Difference between an ED D and a PhD in Education?

After you get your doctoral degree, do you plan to put your education into practice in a school district or another hands-on setting? If so, you may be interested in the online EdD programs no GRE. This is professional doctorate is intended for people who are involved with the daily work of teaching young students or increasing knowledge among the general public.

On the other hand, if you want to be a college professor or a researcher, then a PhD may be the better choice for you. This academic track focuses on furthering educational theories and equipping university students with teaching skills.

Is an Education Doctorate Degree Worth It?

Yes, an education doctorate degree is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 5% job growth in education, training, and library occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include adult literacy teacher, SPED teacher, instructional coordinator, university dean, and K–12 principal.

Few things are more important than helping students get a good education. If advancing this cause is your life’s mission, then fully equip yourself for the job with a doctorate in education. By earning an online doctorate in education, not only can you have greater influence over others’ learning experiences, but you may also increase your salary.

Earning an online degree doctorate in education may allow you to study from home while maintaining your full-time job. Apply to flexible, accelerated programs to complete your doctoral studies in education on a schedule that works for you.

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Online Ed.D. in Education Administration | OU Online

Online Doctor of Education in Education Administration

Become a changemaker for education., make informed decisions in complex settings.

The OU Online Doctor of Education in Education Administration is a 100% online, 54-credit-hour program that takes 36 months to complete. Led by renowned educational leaders and scholars from OU’s Jeanine Rainbolt College of Education, the program emphasizes relationship-building in a cohort model through community groups, networking events, and collaborative projects. The program, accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), culminates with a problem of practice dissertation completed during coursework in the program's third year.

*The summer and fall cohorts for this program are currently at capacity. 

Choose from the following tracks:

Pk-12 educational leadership.

Learn cutting-edge research and leadership skills to help advance your career in PK-12 school district-level education, including assistant, associate, and superintendent positions and human resources administration.

Higher Education Leadership

Apply current scholarship and research skills to advance your career in colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations. You’ll be prepared for positions in student affairs, student support services, institutional research, and higher-level positions like dean or provost.

Request Information

Admission deadline.

Rolling admissions (applications due 14 days before the intended start date).

Program Start Terms

Fall, Summer

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Benefits of the Education  Administration Doctoral Degree

Meet today’s growing demand.

As today’s educational landscape grows increasingly complex, there is a growing need for quality leaders who can meet these new challenges. Become equipped with the advanced knowledge and skills others lack and become an educational change agent in your organization.

Strong Career Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of postsecondary administrators is projected to grow 4 percent by 2032. An estimated 15,300 job openings are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of these openings will result in the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire.

Flexible Format

Learn in a flexible, online program designed for working professionals. You’ll engage in discussion with professors and fellow students with opportunities to work together and collaborate.

OU Online graduates find employment within six months after graduation*

OU Online graduates report earning an annual salary of $75,000 or more*

OU Online students say the skills they gained in their program made them more competitive in their career field*

*Source: OU Online Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2023

Pursue Your  Education  Administration Doctoral Degree

Take the next step in your career with a degree from the University of Oklahoma. Applications are reviewed year-round for fall, spring, and summer sessions. Choose your program, choose your start, and apply today.

Program Breakdown

OU Online’s Doctor of Education in Education Administration program is structured to prepare students for job advancement and leadership by cultivating a deeper understanding of challenges in today’s educational settings. Students will learn how to lead change in their careers and gain the tools necessary to make positive and lasting changes in the organizations and educational settings in which they interact.

The program hosts monthly coffee chats each Friday where students can network with faculty and industry leaders. After completing year two, students will have the option to attend an immersion experience on campus.

This program offers two tracks – PK-12 Educational Leadership or Higher Education Leadership. Students can begin their curriculum in summer or fall terms. Courses will contain both asynchronous and synchronous components. Synchronous sessions are optional and will be recorded for playback.

PK-12 Educational Leadership Track

• Applied Quantitative
• Theoretical Paradigms in Education
• Visionary Leadership
• Qualitative Inquiry for Practitioners
• Program Evaluation
• Instructional Leadership in Educational Administration
• Dissertation Development & Advisory
• Educational & Community Relations
• Strategic & Financial Planning in Education
• Special Education Law
• Prospectus Development
• Advanced Inquiry
• Readings for Prospectus
• Policy Planning and Development

Higher Education Leadership Track

• Administration of Adult & Higher Ed
• Educational Technology Leadership
• Critical Literature in Adult & Higher Ed
• Diversity Issues in Higher Ed

How to Apply

Admissions to the online Doctor of Education in Education Administration are selective. To be considered, you must have a conferred master’s degree from an accredited institution.

To apply, students must:

• Complete the online application at  https://gograd.ou.edu/apply/
• Submit a current resume
• Provide official college transcripts from all institutions for both undergraduate and graduate degrees
• Background on the setting (e.g., school district, higher education institution, or non-profit organization)
• Description of the problem of the practice
• Importance of your problem of practice
• It is understood that the dissertation topic/interests may change, so you are not locked into this proposal if you are accepted into the program.  
• International students must demonstrate English proficiency.

The admissions committee operates under a rolling admissions process, and admissions may continue until two weeks before classes start. The program strives to respond to applicants within one week of submitting a completed application.

For more information about the admissions process, please complete the contact form below, and an admissions counselor will be in touch shortly.

If you would like to compare the estimated cost of your program with a typical financial aid package, use the  cost calculator  on our OU Online financial aid page. 

Graduate tuition waivers cannot be applied to OU Online programs. OU Online programs qualify for the OU Faculty/Staff Tuition Waiver & Fee Exemption, and we encourage you to check your eligibility.  

Tuition waiver and fee exemption package application

If you have questions regarding financial aid for your online program, please get in touch with the Online Aid office by emailing  [email protected]  or calling 405-325-2929.

Same Academic Excellence

Like every OU Online program, the Ed.D. in Education Administration is built on the foundation of world-class University of Oklahoma faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

An Investment in Your Future

Earning a Doctor of Education in Education Administration from OU Online gives you the advanced knowledge necessary to make informed and effective decisions in complex educational settings. You’ll learn to develop and implement strategic plans that drive positive change and innovation in educational organizations, gaining an expanded professional network as part of the global OU alumni community.

Tuition and fees for the program are $29,700 ($550 per credit hour). Books and additional materials are not included.

Tuition Calculator

Our tuition calculator can help you estimate your tuition and financial aid for your program of interest.

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Why OU Online?

We are a top-tier public institution offering high-quality, affordable, professional undergraduate and graduate programs committed to maintaining academic excellence online.

Our Online Programs

Every OU Online program is built on the foundation of world-class faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

Our OU Family

When you graduate from an OU Online program, you’ll join the network of 250,000 OU alumni and be forever part of the OU family. Become part of the tradition of excellence that OU has established in its 130-year history.

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Disseminating Recommended Practice: Early Childhood Education Institute researchers share strategies for involving families

August 26, 2024

BATON ROUGE, LA - Early Childhood Education Institute (ECEI) Researchers , Michelle Brunson, PhD and Cynthia DiCarlo , PhD , along with their colleagues Ashely Boudreaux , Debra Jo Hailey , and Katrina Jordan , recently shared strategies for involving families in early childhood education in their article, “ Engaging Parents as Partners Using Traditional and Distance Learning Models ” in the practitioner publication ChildCare Exchange .

ChildCare Exchange is read by thousands of early childhood professionals worldwide. Our readership includes faculty and professors, students, trainers, center directors, family childcare providers, classroom teachers, and early childhood organizations that support our field. ChildCare Exchange is committed to fostering an inclusive community by elevating story and conversation throughout early care and education. ChildCare Exchange has nearly 6,000 members, strategic partner organizations , and libraries that share Exchange articles with their networks!

Part of the mission of the ECEI is to disseminate research-based practices; publishing in practitioner journals gets research-based information in the hands of teachers. Stressing the importance of home-school relationships, this article shares practical research-based strategies with teachers just in time for the start of the school year.

The Early Childhood Education Institute at LSU is focused holistically on the early years and fills a unique niche by targeting early care, specifically birth through age three. Holistic development invites collaboration from other disciplines to study recommended practices for young children. The ECE Institute at LSU aims to make LSU a leader in early care and education research, dissemination, and advocacy of recommended practices. Through a balanced emphasis on research and education programs, recommended practices in educating and caring for young children will be created, applied, evaluated, and disseminated. We focus on developing expert early care practitioners who deliver high-quality early childhood programming, engage in research practices, and advocate for the profession.

Visit the Early Childhood Education Institute website.

The College of Human Sciences & Education (CHSE) is a nationally accredited division of Louisiana State University. The college comprises the School of Education, the School of Information Studies, the School of Kinesiology, the School of Leadership & Human Resource Development, and the School of Social Work. CHSE has two model demonstration schools: the Early Childhood Education Laboratory Preschool, which enrolls birth to age four, and the University Laboratory School, which enrolls kindergarten through grade 12. The college also has four centers and institutes: the Early Childhood Education Institute, the Healthy Aging Research Center, the Leadership Development Institute, and the Social Research & Evaluation Center. The college is committed to achieving the highest standards in teaching, research, and service and improving quality of life across the lifespan.

Visit the College of Human Sciences & Education website.

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