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Best 18-Month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

A PhD  helps you advance your career and secure senior leadership positions. However, if you’re a busy working professional struggling to manage your family, work, and personal commitments, full-time enrollment with dissertation requirements might not be an option. Most PhDs take 3-7 years to complete, with lots of time spent on dissertations.

But what if you could study a PhD without dissertation requirements or lengthy durations?

Sure, online PhD programs  offer more flexibility; however, you’ll still spend years studying.

Luckily, many schools offer 18-month doctorate without dissertation programs that you can complete in record time, often while studying online on your own schedule. Does that mean you can find the easiest PhD without dissertation requirements? Let’s find out.

Here are some of the top universities and no-dissertation PhD programs you can finish in just 18 months or a little more.

Table of Contents

Top 18-month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

We’ve separated our list of doctorate degrees without dissertation into a few categories: education, nursing, physical therapy, and business management.

Walden University

PhD in Education (P-20 Education)

Walden University is known for offering research doctorates to African-American students and has many flexible options in various disciplines to extend education to everyone. This flexible PhD without dissertation requirements is a fabulous education program where you can design your study based on your interests.

• Courses:  Leading the future of education, governance & politics of education, and learning experiences in supportive environments.
• Credits:  86
• Delivery:  Online
• Tuition: $692 per quarter hour
• Financial aid:  Grants, education assistance, and loans.
• Acceptance rate:  100%
• Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Nebraska Methodist College

Online Doctorate in Education & Leadership in Healthcare

Nebraska Methodist College is one of the country’s most famous allied healthcare colleges and offers more than 40 healthcare and education programs online and on-campus. You don’t need to complete a dissertation or submit GRE scores to apply for this doctoral degree online; no dissertation. You can also balance your studies with other parts of your life by choosing between part-time or full-time options.

• Courses: Information technology in healthcare & education, legal & ethical issues in organizations, and healthcare policy.
• Duration: 24 months
• Cost per credit hour : $817
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans.
• Acceptance rate:  92%
• Location:  Omaha, Nebraska

Nova Southeastern University, College of Education & School of Criminal Justice

EdD – Educational Leadership

Nova Southeastern University is a nationally renowned private institution that embraces social mobility and diversity. The institution offers an EdD that doesn’t require a dissertation. Instead, you’ll need to complete a Strategic Research Project (SRP) amounting to 12 credits.

• Courses: Leadership, communication, & technology, legal & ethical issues in educational leadership, and leading an educational organization.
• Credits:  55
• Delivery:  On-campus
• Tuition : $1,505 per credit
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, employer assistance, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate:  76%
• Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Maryville University

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

Maryville University is renowned for innovative and comprehensive education, using advanced technology to deliver distance learning programs across a range of disciplines. If you are a working nursing professional, this doctoral degree without dissertation requirements will qualify you to reach the highest levels of nursing leadership.

• Courses:  Principles of epidemiology & biostatistics, ethics for advanced nursing practice, and professional role development.
• Credits:  33
• Duration:  20 months
• Delivery: Online
• Tuition : $813 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and employer assistance.
• Acceptance rate: 95%
• Location:  St. Louis, Missouri

Monmouth University

Online DNP Program

Monmouth University has a low student-faculty ratio and believes in immersive learning experiences beyond the classroom. This DNP doctoral program without dissertation requirements helps students analyze evidence to improve clinical policies and practices.

• Courses: Translating evidence to clinical practice, organizational leadership in healthcare, and health care economics and financial management.
• Credits:  36
• Tuition :  $1,348 per credit hour
• Acceptance rate: 79%
• Location:  West Long Branch, New Jersey

Bay Path University

Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse

Bay Path University is a non-profit institution that offers a range of opportunities for lifelong learning, especially for women. This DNP program seeks to prepare nursing professionals with modern evidence-based knowledge to handle advanced nursing practitioner roles, especially in the family health sphere. You can complete this online doctorate (no dissertation) at your own pace.

• Courses:  Managing healthcare delivery systems, healthcare informatics, and biostatistics & epidemiology.
• Tuition : $995 per credit
• Financial aid: Federal loans and private loans.
• Acceptance rate: 78%
• Location:  Longmeadow, Massachusetts

Physical Therapy

The university of north carolina at chapel hill, school of medicine.

Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy

The University of North Carolina is ranked #5  for research among public universities and has two Nobel laureates. This non-thesis PhD helps licensed physical therapists gain advanced knowledge and skills in their area of practice. Additionally, physical therapists earn a median salary of $91,010, making this program one of the highest-paid PhDs . Balance familial and work responsibilities easily as you complete this doctorate degree online (no dissertation).

• Courses: Advanced patient management, advanced neuromuscular intervention, and advanced practice issues.
• Credits: 27
• Tuition :  $902 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, and employee benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 25%
• Location: North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Gannon University

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate

Gannon University is a private Christian institution with a low student-faculty ratio that offers various online programs. This is one of few occupational therapy doctorate degrees without dissertations that help physical therapy professionals translate knowledge from cross-disciplinary theories and research into practice, enabling them to grow beyond a therapist-clinician role.

• Courses:  Applied research in clinical practice, advanced leadership & ethics, and entrepreneurship for the IT professional.
• Credits:  34
• Duration:  2 years
• Tuition :  $770 per credit
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, grants, loans, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate:  79%
• Location:  Erie, Pennsylvania

Business Management

Capella university.

Doctor of Business Administration in Strategy & Innovation

Capella University is a private institution that strives to extend education to all by offering programs that fit with busy routines. As a result, many of its programs are highly flexible, allowing you to finish at your own pace. The institution also makes it easy to manage study costs by only requiring payment for 12 weeks instead of per credit. This doctorate without dissertation offers two streams: the GuidedPath, where you have a pre-fixed curriculum structure, and FlexPath, where you can modify the structure and complete the program according to your pace and convenience.

• Courses:  Effective organizational leadership, strategic decision making, and teaching business in higher education.
• Credits:  45
• Tuition : $545 – $810
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and military benefits.
• Location:  Minneapolis, Minnesota

Liberty University

Online Doctor of Business Administration

Liberty University has been named one of the top 5  online universities and is known for its quality, accessibility, and affordability. This flexible DBA program allows you to specialize in one of a range of business areas, from international business to healthcare management. No dissertation is required for this doctorate degree online.

• Courses:  Strategic allocation of financial resources, marketing for competitive advantage, and quantitative research methods.
• Credits:  60
• Tuition:  $595 per credit
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, grants, loans, and military benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 50%
• Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

What Is a Dissertation and How Does it Work?

A dissertation, sometimes called a thesis, involves conducting research before writing a final report to summarize the research’s findings. It is a fundamental requirement of many graduate programs, especially doctorates, and allows students to develop advanced research, writing, and analytical skills. If a panel approves your dissertation, it will become a part of the field’s current body of knowledge.

The student may choose the topic independently or in consultation with an advisor. In some cases, students can collaborate with faculty members to conduct research. Once complete, the university evaluates the dissertation, and their assessment often decides whether the candidate achieves their PhD .

Why Do So Many Programs Require Dissertations?

A dissertation is usually the most involved and longest-running assignment you need to complete as part of a graduate program. Many schools include a dissertation in the program to develop and test students’ research abilities and set them up for careers in academia.

However, some universities offer graduate programs that don’t require a dissertation. Instead, these programs involve additional research-oriented courses for the students to make up their credits.

Ranking Methodology for 18-month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

We put together the above list of universities and doctorate programs across various disciplines based on their requirements for a dissertation and the total duration of the program. Of course, we gave preference to 18-month programs, but we also included some slightly longer programs.

Most programs don’t require any dissertation at all, while some require fair research activity for satisfactory completion. We ranked the programs based on accessibility, delivery mode, courses, faculty, and school reputation.

Key Takeaways

While most doctorate programs include a mandatory dissertation, several universities now offer no-dissertation programs. These are ideal for working students who may not be able to attend full-time, on-campus programs involving extensive research that can take years to complete.

But you might wonder whether an 18-month doctorate without dissertation status is still valuable. The good news is that it is — a doctorate without a dissertation is nonetheless a respected advanced degree that can significantly boost your career and secure well-paid, senior positions in the field of your choice.

Looking for other ways to speed up your post-graduate education?

Explore the Best 1-Year PhD Online Programs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a doctorate without doing a dissertation.

Yes. Many universities offer doctorate programs that don’t require a dissertation at all. Review the ones we’ve listed in this article for more information.

What Is a Doctorate Without a Dissertation Called?

There’s no particular term for doctorates without dissertations. Instead, they’re simply known as PhDs, EdDs, DNPs, or doctorate degrees. However, some institutions call them “no-dissertation programs” on their official websites.

Is a Dissertation Required for a PhD?

At many universities, a dissertation is an important and indispensable part of a PhD curriculum. However, some universities offer doctorate programs that don’t require a dissertation or thesis for completion. This can be a good option if you’re uninterested in research, don’t wish to work in academia, or are looking for an accelerated option.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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EdDPrograms.org

Online Ed.D. Programs Without a Dissertation

Last updated on January 23rd, 2024 at 09:57 am

Online Ed.D. programs—and in-person doctorates—always contain a rigorous, research-based project. In the past, this has been a traditional dissertation, just like a Ph.D. program. But in recent years, more and more schools are choosing to focus on a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or Capstone Project . Discover how these two "No Dissertation" models differ from the older framework. Or skip ahead to the online listings and on-campus listings to explore your options!

No matter what Ed.D. you choose, you are always going to have to complete a research-based doctoral project. Schools that advertise “No Dissertation” Ed.D. programs typically require a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or capstone project . These are the doctorates that we’ve included in our online listings . Examples include:

• University of Missouri-St. Louis’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Practice . UMSL employs an 8-credit Dissertation in Practice (DiP) model, which is completed through group work.
• University of Southern California’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership . This program involves a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) that focuses on issues impeding K-12 students’ access to learning opportunities.
• University of Southern Mississippi’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Administration . This degree includes a 12-credit capstone research project, which runs the length of the program. Students are expected to focus on a problem of practice in their workplace.
• Nebraska Methodist College’s Online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership in Healthcare . This “No Dissertation” degree contains an 8-credit capstone split into four courses over a six-term program.
• National University’s Online Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation , which requires a culminating project, worth 9 quarter credits. This is a written work based on research students do in their workplace.

Note: Avoid like the plague any Ed.D. program that has no DiP or capstone requirement! They almost certainly will a) not be accredited; and b) not be recognized by employers.

What is a Traditional Ed.D. Dissertation?

A traditional Ed.D. dissertation is a five-chapter paper, roughly the length of a short book. It shows that you can conduct original research into the field of education. The dissertation process starts as soon as you begin your online Ed.D. or on-campus doctorate and it can be broken down into six steps:

• Choose a Research Topic: Near the beginning of the Ed.D. program, you’ll be expected to identify a topic that will require substantial research. This topic should revolve around a unique issue in education (e.g. Helping Intellectually Gifted Middle School Students, Bridging the Gap Between Training and Educating in Adult Learning, etc.).
• Craft a Proposal: You’ll use the knowledge you’ve gained from didactic coursework and Ed.D. research classes to write the opening chapters of your dissertation, including an introduction that defines your chosen problem, a literature review, and a proposed methodology for finding the answer.
• Defend the Proposal: Before proceeding, you will need to present your dissertation proposal to a committee. The committee will want to see that your research is significant and relevant works are included in the literature review. In online Ed.D. programs, this defense can usually be done virtually.
• Research the Topic: After making any necessary tweaks to the proposal, and getting it approved, you can begin researching your topic.
• Write the Remainder of the Dissertation: Once you have completed your research, you’ll write up the final chapters—one chapter will detail your findings; the other should contain an analysis of what your findings mean and how they might apply to professional situations.
• Defend Your Dissertation: At the end of the Ed.D. degree, you must present your dissertation to the committee (usually in an oral presentation). After you have incorporated any notes from the committee, you can finalize your draft and graduate.

Note: Several universities publish full Ed.D. dissertations online, among them George Fox and the University of San Francisco .

Practice-Focused Alternatives: The “No Dissertation” Model of the DiP or Capstone Project

Unlike Ph.D. programs, Ed.D. programs are focused on professional practice—on-campus and online Ed.D. graduates are expected to apply their research in order to solve or improve real-world problems. To that end, many universities in our online listings and on-campus listings have been moving away from a traditional dissertation to more innovative models.

What does an Ed.D. Without a Dissertation Entail?

In general, all alternatives to a traditional Ed.D. dissertation involve a Problem of Practice (PoP) in the workplace. When you tackle a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or capstone project , you’ll be using your research to create practical & workable solutions (e.g. recommending better practices or creating different approaches to current practice).

As we mentioned, you’ll sometimes see these kinds of education doctorates labeled as “No Dissertation” degrees. But keep in mind that the final project will be just as challenging as a traditional dissertation! Be prepared for a lot of on-the-ground research and writing.

Dissertation in Practice (DiP)

In the 2000s, the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) wanted to make the Ed.D. more relevant for school practitioners and education leaders. So it devised a new Framework for Ed.D. Program Design , with a) a new definition of the Ed.D.; b) a list of guiding principles for program development; and c) a set of building blocks for the degree.

One of these building blocks is the Dissertation in Practice (DiP) . During a DiP, you’ll be expected to:

• Tackle a complex Problem of Practice (PoP) facing an organization or stakeholder group in education.
• Create an innovative, research-based project that can help guide other educators and be used in the field.
• Integrate concepts of practice, leadership, and equity into your project.

DiPs are geared toward working professionals who want to make substantive changes in education. Experienced practitioners act as DiP advisors; collaboration is encouraged; and applied research & theory is the name of the game. Examples of this practical approach include ASU’s focus on “action research” within the workplace; Pitt’s use of “improvement science” to address equity and justice; and Harvard’s concern with “strategy in action.”

Capstone Project

While you’re examining universities, you may also come across Ed.D. programs that contain a culminating project , scholarly delivery , applied inquiry project , or a capstone project . The choice of language is determined by graduate faculty and the university. But all of them hold the equivalent weight of a traditional dissertation or DiP.

To get a sense of how an on-campus or online Ed.D. capstone project is structured, we recommend you examine the Ed.D. program page carefully.

• Some schools like to put an emphasis on group work.
• Others are interested in seeing innovative final projects/deliverables.
• Many follow the DiP model.

An education doctorate with a capstone project is probably the closest you’re going to get to a “No Dissertation Ed.D.” You’ll often be in involved in more collaboration and hands-on deliverables. But you’re always going to have to produce rigorous, research-focused results.

Note: CPED posts examples of award-winning Ed.D. Dissertations in Practice in its Resource Center and UW Tacoma maintains a database of Dissertations in Practice/Capstone Projects .

How an Ed.D. Capstone Project Works

Let’s say you’ve decided on pursuing an accredited, on-campus or online Ed.D. without a dissertation. How can you be sure that the final research project is going to be as tough as the traditional model? Here is a general summary of the steps involved in completing a strong Ed.D. capstone project:

• Choose a Capstone Topic: The beginning of your Ed.D. will typically be front-loaded with foundational coursework, as well as classes on how to conduct research. It’s here that you’ll start to explore what a good capstone topic might be and learn about relevant research tools.
• Meet with an Advisor: You’ll work with an advisor to firm up the real-world problem you want to address and determine how to approach it. Part of this process will involve figuring out what an appropriate deliverable would be (e.g. change management plan, new curriculum, portfolio of educational materials, etc.).
• Draft a Proposal: About halfway through the program, you may be expected to draft a report that contains a problem statement, an outline of your process for finding solutions, and a description of deliverables.
• Defend the Proposal: Before any actual research takes place, the committee needs to sign off on your proposal.
• Research the Topic: Even without a standard Ed.D. dissertation, there’s no getting around conducting research. The key difference is how that research is gathered and applied. You may end up combining traditional research with action research and/or evaluation research (e.g. collecting and analyzing real-time data from your workplace).
• Defend Your Findings: You have one more defense—this time of your research findings and accompanying recommendations. This is separate from the project deliverable.
• Produce a Deliverable: The deliverable/final project is something that an organization can actually use to improve educational access or outcomes.

Ed.D. Traditional Dissertation vs. DiP/Capstone Project

As long as they contain a DiP or capstone, accredited on-campus & online Ed.D. programs without a dissertation carry the same weight as doctoral programs with traditional dissertations. There’s absolutely no difference in quality. The CPED consortium includes numerous prominent universities , and U.S. News & World Report highly ranks several schools with Ed.D. capstone components. So you have a choice.

Traditional Ed.D. Dissertation

You may wish to consider Ed.D. programs with a traditional dissertation if you want to dig deep into original research. This research may not be immediately applicable to your workplace, but it will help advance educators’ understanding of an issue. It contributes new knowledge to the field. Some dissertation writers like to investigate cultural topics (e.g. Latinx learning experiences); others are interested in the effect of education in particular settings (e.g. U.S. prison system).

Ed.D. Capstone Project or DiP: The “No Dissertation” Model

If you would like to tackle a specific problem in your workplace, then we recommend you consider in-person or online Ed.D. programs with a DiP or capstone project. These doctorates are focused on applied theory & research—you will be expected to test & implement changes over the course of your degree (e.g. new education methods, curriculum changes, leadership interventions, etc.). Ed.D. programs without a dissertation may also contain more group work and interpersonal opportunities.

Note: If you don’t have the capacity for a large research project at this time, you could consider pursuing an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree . This leaves the door open for you to complete an Ed.D. completion program or All But Dissertation (ABD) program later down the track.

All Online No-Dissertation EdD Programs

48 Schools Found

Arizona State University

Teacher's College

Tempe, Arizona

EdD in Leadership and Innovation

• Curriculum Info
• How To Apply

EdD in Leadership and Innovation - Higher Education Change Leadership

Edd in leadership and innovation - pk-12 change leadership, edd in leadership and innovation - systems, professional and reimagined change leadership, online edd in leadership and innovation.

Offered Online

Online EdD in Leadership and Innovation - Higher Education Change Leadership

Online edd in leadership and innovation - pk-12 change leadership, online edd in leadership and innovation - systems, professional and reimagined change leadership, university of arizona.

Department of Educational Policy Studies and Practice

Tucson, Arizona

EdD in Educational Leadership

National university.

Sanford College of Education

La Jolla, California

Online Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation

University of southern california.

Rossier School of Education

Los Angeles, California

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Doctor of education in educational leadership - educational psychology, doctor of education in educational leadership - higher education administration, doctor of education in educational leadership - teacher education in multicultural societies, global executive doctor of education, online doctor of education in educational leadership - k-12 leadership in urban school settings, online doctor of education in educational leadership - leading instructional change, connecticut, sacred heart university.

Isabelle Farrington College Of Education

Fairfield, Connecticut

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership

Wilmington university.

College of Education

New Castle, Delaware

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership - District Leadership

Doctor of education in educational leadership - school leadership, doctor of education in educational leadership - teacher leadership, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - strategic leadership, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - talent development, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - workplace learning, edd in higher education leadership and innovation, online doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation, online edd in higher education leadership and innovation, district of columbia, american university.

School of Education

Washington, District of Columbia

Online EdD in Education Policy and Leadership

Nova southeastern university.

Fischler College of Education

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

EdD in Curriculum and Instruction

Edd in higher education leadership, edd in higher services administration, edd in instructional technology and distance education, edd in organizational leadership, edd in reading education, edd in special education, online edd in curriculum and instruction, online edd in educational leadership, online edd in higher education leadership, online edd in higher services administration, online edd in instructional technology and distance education, online edd in organizational leadership, online edd in reading education, online edd in special education, university of florida.

Gainesville, Florida

Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction - Teachers, Schools, and Society

University of miami.

Coral Gables, Florida

Doctor of Education in Applied Learning Sciences

Georgia southern university.

Statesboro, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Curriculum Studies - Cultural Curriculum Studies

Doctor of education in curriculum studies - learning, development, and curriculum, doctor of education in curriculum studies - multicultural and social justice education, doctor of education in educational leadership - p-12 administration, governors state university.

University Park, Illinois

Online Doctor of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership - Higher Education Administration

Online doctor of education in interdisciplinary leadership - not for profit/social entrepreneurship leadership, online doctor of education in interdisciplinary leadership - superintendent p-12, national louis university.

National College of Education/School of Business and Management

Chicago, Illinois

Doctorate of Education in Higher Education Leadership

Online doctorate of education in higher education leadership, allen college.

School of Health Sciences

Waterloo, Iowa

Doctor of Education in Health Professions Education

University of saint mary.

Education Department

Leavenworth, Kansas

Doctor of Education in Leadership - Innovation in Curriculum and Instruction

Doctor of education in leadership - innovative leadership in higher education, johns hopkins university.

Baltimore, Maryland

Online EdD in Instructional Design in Online Teaching and Learning

Massachusetts, bay path university.

Longmeadow, Massachusetts

EdD in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Studies

Boston college.

Lynch School of Education

Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

Executive Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education

Executive doctor of education (ed.d.) in higher education - catholic education, boston university.

Wheelock College of Education & Human Development

Boston, Massachusetts

EdD in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies: Leadership in Early Childhood Education-Grade 12

Northeastern university.

College of Professional Studies

Doctor of Education

Online doctor of education - curriculum, teaching, learning and leadership, online doctor of education - higher education administration, online doctor of education - organizational leadership studies, regis college.

School of Arts and Sciences

Weston, Massachusetts

Andrews University

Department of Leadership

Berrien Springs, Michigan

Online Doctor of Leadership (D.Lead)

Cornerstone university.

Adult & Graduate Studies

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development

Capella university.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

EdD in Adult Education

Edd in performance improvement leadership, edd in reading and literacy, edd, curriculum and instruction, the college of saint scholastica.

Duluth, Minnesota

Doctor of Educational Leadership

Walden university.

Riley College of Education & Leadership

Online Doctor of Education - Community College Leadership

Online doctor of education - curriculum instruction and assessment, online doctor of education - early childhood education, online doctor of education - educational administration and leadership (for administrators), online doctor of education - educational administration and leadership (non-licensure), online doctor of education - educational technology, online doctor of education - higher education (self-designed), online doctor of education - higher education and adult learning, online doctor of education - higher education leadership and management, online doctor of education - p-20 education (self-designed), online doctor of education - reading, literacy, and assessment, online doctor of education - special education, mississippi, university of southern mississippi.

Department of Educational Research and Administration

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Online EdD in Educational Administration - P-12

Online edd in higher education administration, a. t. still university of health sciences.

College of Graduate Health Studies

Kirksville, Missouri

Doctor of Education in Health Professions

Nebraska methodist college of nursing & allied health.

Healthcare Management Department

Omaha, Nebraska

EdD in Education & Leadership in Healthcare

University of nebraska-lincoln.

Department of Educational Administration

Lincoln, Nebraska

Doctor of Education in Educational Studies - Innovative Learning Technologies

Doctor of education in educational studies - teaching, curriculum and learning, fordham university.

Department of Educational Leadership

Bronx, New York

Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership, Administration and Policy

Online doctorate of education in educational leadership, administration and policy, franklin university.

Columbus, Ohio

Online Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership - Higher Education Leadership

Online doctor of education in organizational leadership - organizational leadership focus, online doctor of education in organizational leadership - pk-12 educational leadership, kent state university at kent.

School of Foundations, Leadership and Administration

Ed.D. in Interprofessional Leadership - Athletic Training

Ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - cultural foundations, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - curriculum & instruction, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - educational technology, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - special education, university of dayton.

School of Education and Health Sciences

Dayton, Ohio

Doctor of Education in Leadership for Organizations

South carolina, university of south carolina-columbia.

Columbia, South Carolina

Online Doctor of Education in Educational Practice and Innovation - Education Systems Improvement

Online doctor of education in educational practice and innovation - stem education, online ed.d. in educational practice and innovation with a concentration in curriculum studies, online ed.d. in educational practice and innovation with a concentration in learning design and technologies, east tennessee state university.

Johnson City, Tennessee

Doctorate of Education in Global Sport Leadership

Lipscomb university.

Nashville, Tennessee

Doctorate in Education - Learning Organizations and Strategic Change

Online doctor of education in learning organizations and strategic change, vanderbilt university.

Department of Leadership, Policy, and Organizations

EdD in Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Edd in k-12 educational leadership and policy, online edd in leadership and learning organizations, tarleton state university.

Department of Educational Leadership & Technology

Stephenville, Texas

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership - EC-12 Education Leadership

Ed.d. in educational leadership - higher education leadership, ed.d. in educational leadership - superintendent or principal certification, texas a & m university-college station.

Department of Educational Administration and Human Resource Development

College Station, Texas

Doctor of Education in Educational Administration

Online doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, texas tech university.

Lubbock, Texas

Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Online doctor of education in higher education administration - community college administration, online doctor of education in higher education administration - higher education college/university administration, west texas a & m university.

College of Education and Social Science

Canyon, Texas

Online Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership

Online doctorate of education in leadership in higher education, college of william and mary.

Department of Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership

Williamsburg, Virginia

EdD in Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership - International School Leadership

Edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - gifted education, edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - higher education administration, edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - k-12 administration, liberty university.

Lynchburg, Virginia

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership

Online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - elementary education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - middle grades education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - secondary education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - special education, online doctor of education in school administration and supervision, university of virginia.

Curry School of Education

Charlottesville, Virginia

EdD in Administration and Supervision

Edd in higher education, virginia commonwealth university.

Richmond, Virginia

Doctor of Education in Leadership

Doctor of education in leadership - general leadership, doctor of education in leadership - higher education leadership, online doctor of education in leadership, online doctor of education in leadership - general leadership, online doctor of education in leadership - higher education leadership, gonzaga university.

Spokane, Washington

Doctor of Educational Leadership - Educational Leadership Among Indigenous Peoples

Doctor of educational leadership - leadership in catholic schools, doctor of educational leadership - pre-k-12 school leadership, university of wyoming.

Laramie, Wyoming

Online Ed.D. in Education - Higher Education Administration

Online edd in learning, design and technology, all on-campus no-dissertation edd programs.

25 Schools Found

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California

Doctorate in Education - Community College Leadership

Doctorate in education - pk-12, la sierra university.

Department of Administration and Leadership

Riverside, California

Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership

Doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - educational psychology, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - higher education, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - leadership and administration, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - neuroscience and education, doctor of education in educational psychology, doctor of education in educational psychology - mental health, doctor of education in school psychology, doctor of education in school psychology - bcba, university of colorado denver/anschutz medical campus.

School of Education and Human Development

Denver, Colorado

Doctorate in Education - Leadership for Educational Equity

Doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - early childhood education and early childhood special education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - executive leadership, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - higher education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - latin learners and community, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - mathematics education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - professional learning and technology, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - science education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - urban and diverse communities, university of connecticut.

Storrs, Connecticut

Delaware State University

Department of Education

Dover, Delaware

EdD in Educational Leadership in Higher Education

Edd in educational leadership in k-12, university of delaware.

Newark, Delaware

Barry University

Miami, Florida

Doctor of Education in Organizational Learning and Leadership - Higher Education Administration

Edd in organizational learning and leadership - educational leadership, edd in organizational learning and leadership - human resource development, florida state university.

Tallahassee, Florida

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration

Doctor of education in learning design & performance technology, lynn university.

Boca Raton, Florida

Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership

University of north florida.

Department of Leadership, School Counseling and Sport Management

Jacksonville, Florida

Augusta University

Augusta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Educational Innovation - Curriculum and Instruction

Doctor of education in educational innovation - education leadership, doctor of education in educational innovation - elementary education, doctor of education in educational innovation - middle grades, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 art education, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 health & physical education, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 music education, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - biology, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - chemistry, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - earth science, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - economics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - english, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - french, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - german, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - history, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - mathematics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - physics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - political science, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - science education, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - spanish, doctor of education in educational innovation - special education, university of hawaii at manoa.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Education Doctorate in Professional Education Practice

Depaul university, edd in curriculum studies, illinois state university.

Normal, Illinois

EdD in Education Administration and Foundations: P-12 Administration

University of illinois at chicago, doctor of education in urban education leadership, drake university.

Des Moines, Iowa

Doctor of Education with Principal Licensure

Edd in administration with superintendent licensure, university of iowa.

Iowa City, Iowa

Doctor of Education in Education Policy and Leadership Studies - Higher Education

Doctor of education in education policy and leadership studies - pk-12 administration, morehead state university.

Morehead, Kentucky

Doctor of Education in Adult and Higher Education Leadership

Doctor of education in educational technology leadership, doctor of education in p-12 administrative leadership, northern kentucky university.

Department of Counseling, Social Work and Leadership

Highland Heights, Kentucky

Spalding University

Louisville, Kentucky

University of Louisville

Edd in educational leadership and organizational development, university of maryland-college park.

College Park, Maryland

Doctor of Education in School System Leadership

Michigan state university.

Department of Education Administration

East Lansing, Michigan

EdD in Educational Leadership - K12 Administration

University of mississippi.

University, Mississippi

EdD in K-12 Educational Leadership

Edd in math education, maryville university.

Saint Louis, Missouri

Saint Louis University-Main Campus

Doctor of education in educational leadership - catholic, university of missouri-st louis, edd in educational practice, new hampshire, southern new hampshire university.

Manchester, New Hampshire

Rutgers University

Graduate School of Education

Camden, New Jersey

EdD in Design of Learning Environments

Edd in education, culture, and society, edd in teacher leadership, cuny hunter college.

New York, New York

Doctor of Education in Instructional Leadership

New york university.

Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions

EdD in Educational Theatre in Colleges and Communities

Edd in higher education administration, the sage colleges.

Esteves School of Education

Troy, New York

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, New York

Doctorate in Education - Educational Administration

North carolina, east carolina university.

Greenville, North Carolina

EdD in Educational Leadership - Higher Education

Gardner-webb university.

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership

Western carolina university.

Human Services Department

Cullowhee, North Carolina

Wingate University

Wingate, North Carolina

Doctor of Education in Higher Education Executive Leadership

Miami university-oxford.

Oxford, Ohio

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Doctor in education studies - educational administration, pennsylvania, kutztown university of pennsylvania.

Department of Secondary Education

Kutztown, Pennsylvania

Education Doctorate in Transformational Teaching and Learning

University of pittsburgh-pittsburgh campus.

Department of Administrative and Policy Studies

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

EdD in Health and Physical Activity

Edd in higher education management, edd in out of school learning, edd in social and comparative analysis in education, edd in special education - applied behavioral analysis, edd in special education - blindness/vision impairments/orientation and mobility, edd in special education - early intervention, edd in special education - emotional and behavioral disorders, edd in special education - learning disabilities, edd in special education - severe disabilities, edd in stem, clemson university.

Clemson, South Carolina

Doctorate in Education in Education Systems Improvement Science

Texas christian university.

Fort Worth, Texas

Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership

Brigham young university-provo.

McKay School of Education

Provo, Utah

University of Utah

Department of Educational Leadership and Policy

Salt Lake City, Utah

EdD in K12 Leadership and Policy - Administrative Licensure

K12 edd program, university of vermont.

College of Education and Social Services

Burlington, Vermont

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Seattle university.

Seattle, Washington

Doctorate in Educational and Organizational Learning and Leadership

University of washington-tacoma campus.

Tacoma, Washington

Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership

Doctoral program in educational leadership - adult education, doctoral program in educational leadership - higher education, doctoral program in educational leadership - nursing education and healthcare leadership, doctoral program in educational leadership - p-12 educators/superintendent credential, doctoral program in educational leadership - public service, washington state university.

Pullman, Washington

EdD in Educational Leadership - Administration

Edd in educational leadership - higher education leadership, edd in educational leadership - teacher leadership.

15 Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs – 2024

April 24, 2024

If you’re looking to attain a terminal degree but want to skip the commute to campus, an online doctoral program might be a great option for you. As our world becomes increasingly digital, many top universities have branched out into online learning, offering online PhD and doctoral programs that are just as rigorous as their in-person counterparts. Online graduate education can offer aspiring doctoral students flexibility, a high-quality education, and the option to continue working while pursuing a degree.

Many of the universities below in our round-up of the best online doctoral programs offer degrees in education—a common track for teachers looking to advance their careers. But universities across the country offer a wide range of degrees in everything from engineering management to library science. Read on for everything you need to know as you consider applying.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctoral Degree Online?

Online doctoral programs are often designed with full-time professionals in mind, prioritizing flexibility so that you can complete your degree at your own pace. Program lengths will vary, but most will take four to seven years. For students who need to take things slower, many programs offer options to spread degree requirements out over time. When applying, here are a few good questions to ask your admissions officer:

• How long do most graduate students take to complete their degrees?
• Are there flexible options for how many courses you’ll take per term?
• Will you pay tuition per semester or per credit hour? If paying by credit hour, will you able to choose how many classes you take each semester?
• Will you be required to write a dissertation? If so, how long do students usually take to write them?

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Is an Online PhD Program a Good Fit for Me?

There’s no denying it: online doctoral programs are different than traditional ones. Many traditional PhD programs are designed for future academics, aka for graduate students who intend to apply for jobs as university professors after graduation. Traditional PhD programs are full-time, research-focused, in-person, and often offer graduate students funding in exchange for teaching or research assistant responsibilities. Online doctoral programs do also involve research, but most online graduate students are not full-time students. Rather, many students enrolled in online doctoral programs are working professionals who attend classes in the evenings or asynchronously. With that in mind, an online program can be a fantastic opportunity to further your current career.

An online doctorate program could be a great fit for you if:

• You want to advance your career. A doctorate can lead to further opportunities for promotion and certain fields offer automatic pay increases for people with advanced degrees.
• You love research and want to develop expertise in a topic that fascinates you.
• You learn well in online settings, including asynchronous classes.
• You plan to continue working while you study.

Online doctoral programs typically do not offer their students funding, though there may be scholarships and grants available to you.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – What to Consider When Choosing an Online Doctorate Program

Since a doctorate can take 4-7 years or more to complete, choosing the right school for you is a huge decision. Our list below dives into many details you’ll need to know like acceptance rate, retention rate, and cost of tuition. It’s important to consider big-picture factors such as:

• Time to complete degree
• Professors and mentors—you’ll want to make sure you can study with faculty who have expertise in your academic interests
• Flexibility—does the program fit with your schedule? Do they require any in-person meetings?
• Graduation rate—ask your admissions officer for the most recent figures

You’ll also want to consider whether you want to pursue a PhD or a doctorate degree. If you’re pursuing a PhD, you can expect to focus more significantly on academic research and you’ll need to complete a dissertation. A doctorate is an equivalent degree that is less focused on academic research and may not require a dissertation. Doctorates can often involve more career development or hands-on practicum experience.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Are Online PhDs Respected?

Yes, online doctoral programs are just as rigorous and respected as their in-person counterparts. If you hope to earn a tenure-track faculty position at a university, it’s likely a traditional PhD program will be a better route. However, if you’re seeking a doctorate for career advancement and further learning, an online doctoral program can be a great fit. Many of the most prestigious universities offer online programs, and your diploma will likely not specify whether you completed an online or traditional degree.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – What Do I Need to Apply?

Application requirements will vary depending on the program you’re applying to. All programs will require your academic transcripts, many require letters of recommendation, and some require GRE scores. On top of that, some programs will require a personal statement or writing portfolio. Contrary to what you might think, Master’s degrees are not always required for admission to online doctoral programs.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs

1) university of florida.

Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida offers 10 different online doctoral programs . Well known for its graduate programs in education, educators can pursue PhDs in educational leadership, special education, computer science education, among other options. UF also offers online programs in nursing, Latin and Roman studies, microbiology, and a few other fields. Established in 1853, UF is a flagship state university with a strong reputation.

• Graduation Rate: 89%
• Acceptance Rate: 31%
• In State Tuition: $6,380
• Out of State Tuition: $28,658
• Application Requirements: Application portfolio (sample essays or projects), GRE scores, minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.4 or graduate GPA of 3.5, letters of recommendation

2) George Washington University

George Washington University ’s Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering leads the way with the university’s most comprehensive online PhD offerings . Through them, students can pursue doctoral degrees in cybersecurity analytics, engineering in artificial intelligence, systems engineering, or engineering management. Educators can also pursue well-respected degrees in education leadership and human and organizational learning.

• Graduation Rate: 85%
• Acceptance Rate: 43%
• Tuition: $31,770
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, personal statement, letters of recommendation, academic records

3) Johns Hopkins University

• A ten-year-old program , Johns Hopkins ’ online PhD in education allows students to specialize in digital age learning, entrepreneurial leadership, urban leadership, and other topics. Note their high graduation rate: Johns Hopkins is a competitive program , but admitted students are well-supported on their path to graduation.
• Graduation Rate: 94%
• Acceptance Rate: 11%
• Tuition: $57,010
• Application Requirements: Master’s degree, minimum GPA of 3.0

Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs (Continued)

4) texas tech university.

Texas Tech University offers a wide range of online and hybrid PhD programs that provide their students flexibility as they work toward completing their terminal degree. An affordable university in Lubbock, Texas Tech is a great place for future doctors of education, consumer science, technical communication, engineering management, and financial planning.

• Graduation Rate: 63%
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• In State Tuition: $6,788
• Out of State Tuition: $14,968
• Application Requirements: Academic transcripts, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

5) Iowa State University

Although Iowa State University ’s online doctorate programs require some in-person meetings, ISU may still be a good fit for online students. With more uncommon online doctoral programs in hospitality management and apparel, merchandising, and design, ISU offers flexible routes to completing your dissertation.

• Graduation Rate: 75%
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• In State Tuition: $9,758
• Out of State Tuition: $24,720
• Application Requirements: Academic records, minimum 3.0 GPA

6) University of Alabama

Online University of Alabama students may miss out on a lively campus culture and football games, but they can still take advantage of UA’s top-notch academics. Well-known for its online education graduate programs, UA also offers programs in social work, communication and information sciences, and engineering.

• Graduation Rate: 72%
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• In State Tuition: $11,940
• Out of State Tuition: $32,300
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic records

7) University of Missouri

One of the most robust in terms of online offerings, the University of Missouri ’s online PhD classes are taught by the same professors who teach Mizzou’s in-person classes. Mizzou offers programs in education and nursing. They also allow students to pursue doctorates in harder-to-find subjects like health sciences, agriculture, architecture, and library science.

• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• In State Tuition: $9,478
• Out of State Tuition: $25,946
• Application Requirements: Academic record, minimum GPA of 3.0, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

8) University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

One of the oldest public universities in the U.S., University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill is known as a leader in education. UNC Chapel Hill offers just three online PhDs: public health, nursing, and education. Although some online classes require in-person or proctored final exams, doctoral requirements can mostly be completed online.

• Graduation Rate: 91%
• Acceptance Rate: 25%
• In State Tuition: $9,208
• Out of State Tuition:  $36,891
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic records, letters of recommendation, personal statement

9) Georgia Southern University

Located in Savannah, Georgia Southern University works hard to create an environment of support and collaboration, even online. One of the more robust programs out there, GSU offers respected online programs in public health, nursing, education, and engineering.

• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• In State Tuition: $4,986
• Out of State Tuition: $19,890
• Application Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0

10) Indiana University

Indiana University allows students to study at their own pace through flexible online doctoral programs. One of the only schools to offer online programs in music therapy and philanthropy leadership, IU also allows students to pursue tracks in health sciences, education, and computing and technology. Most classes are asynchronous and students can take courses through any IU campus.

• Graduation Rate: 41%
• Acceptance Rate: 92%
• In State Tuition: $9732
• Out of State Tuition: $21,160
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic record

11) Mississippi State University

A solid option for future doctors of philosophy, Mississippi State University is a research-focused and inclusive university. An especially strong option for those looking to study engineering or computer science, MSU offers 9 different majors within those fields.  MSU also offers tracks in plant science and education leadership.

• Graduation Rate: 64%
• In State Tuition: $9,398
• Out of State Tuition: $25,444
• Application Requirements: Academic record, letters of recommendation, personal statement

12) Appalachian State University

Although Appalachian State University is known for its beautiful setting in Boone, North Carolina, App State still has much to offer online students. This school offers only one part-time PhD program in education leadership , but its affordability compared to other programs makes this school stand out.

• In State Tuition: $4,839
• Out of State Tuition: $18,271
• Application Requirements: Academic record, GRE scores or 3.0 minimum GPA, Master’s degree

13) Purdue University

An online doctoral program that maintains a high standard of excellence, Purdue is a great place for future doctors of technology, educational leadership and policy, and higher education. Purdue graduate students can expect to co-author papers with faculty and gain hands-on experience in research.

• Graduation Rate: 38%
• Acceptance Rate: 30%
• Tuition: $420 per credit

14) Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University ’s online doctoral programs allow students to complete their degree in three to five years. Through their shortened term system, students take 8-week classes and then write their dissertation in their final three semesters. A leader in online doctoral programs, Concordia offers paths in strategic innovation, healthcare management, education leadership, and organizational leadership.

• Tuition: $9,090
• Application Requirements: Academic record, Master’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

15) Clemson University

A public school in South Carolina, Clemson aims to prepare online doctoral students for diverse career paths. Proudly offering programs that are difficult to find elsewhere, Clemson graduate students can study healthcare genetics and parks, recreation, and tourism management. Education professionals can complete degrees in education systems, learning science, and teaching, literacy, language, and culture.

• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Acceptance Rate: 49%
• In State Tuition: $10,600
• Out of State Tuition: $22,050
• Application Requirements: Academic record, letters of recommendation, portfolio and personal statement vary by program

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Additional Resources

Looking to learn more about graduate school admissions? We’ve got you covered.

Admissions Tips

• What is a Good GRE Score?
• Write a Grad School Statement of Purpose in 12 Simple Steps
• How to Get into Grad School with a Low GPA
• Do You Need a Master’s to get a PhD?

More about Online Learning

• Best Online MSW Programs
• Best Master’s in Public Health Online Programs
• Hybrid and Online DBA Programs 
• Graduate School Admissions

Christina Wood

Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.

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Education (Educational Administration P-12) EdD

Online educational administration doctorate with no dissertation required, program-at-a-glance (graduate).

Credit Hours:

Total Hours: 54

Cost per Credit Hour:

Calculate Your Tuition

Completion Time:

Accreditation:

Special Requirements:

Copy of current educator license (with at least 3 years of teaching experience).

Learn more about this program:

Thank you for your interest in online at southern miss.

Ready to take the next step?

If you are an educator looking to become a powerful leader in your school, the revolutionary new online Educational Administration Doctorate Degree can teach you what you need to know to become an effective administrator at the building or district level. The best part? No dissertation required!

The online E ducational Administration EdD offers you a unique learning experience with synchronous classes. These live, online classes give you the opportunity to meet with your instructor and classmates each week and learn from a community of your peers. Your classes will meet at the same time and same day each week and are typically night classes.

With this degree, you’ll be gaining real-world experience and solving hands-on issues as you work through the program. This program will immerse you in theories of teacher supervision, school budgeting and finance, and educational decision-making and leadership on your way to becoming a principal, superintendent or program coordinator. This is your chance to make a greater impact in your school system!

Applicants are required to have at least three years of teaching experience .   Looking for more education-related degrees? Check out our other fully-online options ! Want more info about this degree ? Our enrollment coaches are standing by to assist you. Click here for more info! This is your life, plus college!

A number of scholarship opportunities are available for online students! Our Online Student Scholarship gives first time, fully online students an opportunity for $500 towards their first semester. To get started with our Online Student Scholarship, or to view our list of available scholarships for which you may qualify, visit our  Student Scholarship page  now!

What can you do with an Education Administration EdD?

An EdD in Education Administration provides you with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary for leadership roles in educational institutions, policy development, and program management in education.

We are here to help! Our enrollment coaches are standing by to help you take the next step.

We’ll call you soon! In the meantime, learn more about us from our blog or start your application.

Core Courses (30 hours)

Select 1 course:

Additional Note

Please note that the above information is meant to be a guide and is not official. For further information regarding courses for this degree, see the University Bulletin . Please be aware that not all course choices listed in the University Bulletin are available online. However, sufficient online options are available to complete this degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

The prospective student must complete the Graduate School admission application online and pay the application fee at http://apps.usm.edu/graduate-school/grad-school-apps/ .

To find pricing information,   visit our pricing page . For financial aid information,  view our financial aid page . For detailed tuition information,  visit our business services page .

Yes! To view all the funding resources available to graduate students, please visit the  Graduate Admissions Funding Resources  page.

You can earn an a dministrative license if you do not already hold it, and you can earn a s uperintendent license if you already hold administrative license. Also you must have held a license for three years to be admitted. However, l icensure requirements and approval are determined by each state’s licensing board. For general information about professional licensure, please review the Online Programs & Professional Licensure Page .

Either the GRE, PRAXIS or any other nationally recognized graduate-level exam is required for this program.

You will need a USM application, resume, letter of interest, official transcripts, GRE scores, and three letters of recommendation.

The program, including the final Capstone Project, may be completed over three years.

Yes, the online Education Administration Doctorate degree program is delivered 100% online.

No. Instead of a dissertation, this program requires a capstone research project that is focused on a real-world problem of practice that you encounter in your workplace. The capstone is completed in courses that are schedule alongside the content courses so that you will be able to complete the capstone as you complete the required coursework.

At the discretion of the academic program, the Ed.D. program will accept up to 18 transfer hours so long as the credits have not been applied to a previously conferred degree.

No, there is no out-of-state tuition associated with the online program.

If you still have questions, please visit our FAQ page , or take a moment to fill out our form at the bottom of the screen, and we will reach out to you!

Admission Requirements

In addition to the requirements detailed in  Admission Requirements and Procedures , applicants must meet the following requirements and submit the following documents:

• Official GRE scores or other acceptable standardized graduate-level exam scores
• Statement of Purpose – In a letter or essay format, describe your professional experiences and goals and how obtaining this degree will help you to realize those goals.
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• Copy of current educator license (with at least three years of teaching experience)

This program admits new students each fall. Members of underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Program Requirements and Academic Policies See  General Degree Requirements  and  General Academic Information .

The online Educational Administration Doctorate is nationally recognized by CAEP, and the program is aligned to the Educational Leadership Constituent Council (ELCC) standards. It is a part time, fully online program redesigned to accommodate the schedule of current educators. The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools of Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The online Educational Administration doctorate is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). That means you can expect a program with the highest standards and quality.

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• Graduate School

PhD Without Dissertation or Thesis

Featured Expert: Dr. Gurmeet Lall, PhD

Final doctoral projects can be intimidating or time-consuming, which is why many students look for a PhD without dissertation. What they soon discover while learning how to find a PhD topic is that the Doctor of Philosophy degree itself is heavily tied to research capabilities and publishing scholarship. As a result, it is very difficult to find PhD programs specifically that have no dissertation requirement. However, other doctoral degrees in various fields do exist and can be granted from programs without a traditional dissertation or thesis defense process.

This article lists the kinds of doctorate-level programs that do not have traditional dissertation requirements necessary for completion. We also cover what are the reasons a doctorate program without dissertation may or may not be beneficial for students, and how grad school application help can be used to make the decision.

Disclaimer: Please note: although we have made every effort to provide the most accurate information, admissions information changes frequently. Therefore, we encourage you to verify these details with the official university admissions office. You are responsible for your own results. BeMo does not endorse nor affiliate with any official universities, colleges, or test administrators and vice versa.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 9 min read

Examples of doctorate programs without dissertation.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. These examples are simply meant to highlight the various types of doctorate programs that are available and how they address the lack of a traditional dissertation to complete their program.

1.     Education & Leadership in Healthcare Online Doctorate at Nebraska Methodist College

This virtual option from Nebraska Methodist College does not require any formal dissertation nor the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Instead, students in this full-time 24-month (or 36-month, part-time) program must complete a Doctoral Capstone Project. The final submission is a translational research project that explores a question within a field relevant to the program that is meant to align with your career goals.

Are you working on your grad school application? Watch this video:

2.     EdD Program in Educational Leadership at Nova Southeastern University

This on-campus program in Fort Lauderdale, Florida offers two Capstone options for completing your education. One is an applied dissertation and the other is a Strategic Research Project (SRP). Both options are meant to prepare graduates for educational leadership. Career paths after this degree include school superintendent, professor of education, and education consulting, among others.

3.     Online Doctor of Business Administration at Liberty University

In this 100% online program, students can choose from various specialized paths to further their education of management in the corporate world. Through mentorship from respected business professionals, you will learn the skills to advance your career. No dissertation is required for completion of this DBA program.

4.     Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine

At one of the top medical schools in North Carolina , this transitional DPT program with web-based instruction is for licensed physical therapists who wish to continue practicing while pursuing this degree. It is only offered on a part-time schedule over 2 years and requires the completion of 27 credits of approved coursework. There is no final or dissertation project.

As you see from the list above, it is very uncommon for a PhD program to not have a dissertation or thesis at the end of it. Programs labelled with the Doctor of Philosophy moniker tend to be based in research, which lend themselves to the student completing a final cumulative research project such as a dissertation. When you answer, “Why do you want to a PhD?” , your answer will typically involve specific research interests you wish to pursue. If you want to pursue a PhD but do not want to complete a dissertation, you may want to explore other viable education options. PhDs and research are inherently linked, so it is difficult to find PhD programs specifically that do not require any form of dissertation.

Instead, what you will likely find is that there are various other degrees, such as a Doctor of Education, that do not require a formal dissertation. In these cases, a traditional thesis is replaced by another form of cumulative project or work experience. In some cases, there could be no final project at all. These are still not common but are more likely to appear in your search results. Deciding what path you would like to pursue will come once you figure out your plans for how to find a job after grad school . The eventual career you are aiming for may impact your ultimate decision to enroll in a doctorate program without a dissertation to complete. Here are some of the pros and cons of these rare kinds of programs:

• No Thesis Responsibility. One of the main pros of a doctorate degree without dissertation is that you will not have to learn how to prepare for a thesis defense . While some other capstone project or culminating experience may be required, you may not necessarily need to defend your research in front of professors or other faculty. Preparing for a thesis defense can be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of your PhD. After having done all the research over the last year or so and written a document that could be hundreds of pages long, justifying your work puts a lot of pressure on your shoulders. Having no dissertation at all will waive this requirement and prevent you from having to review any thesis defense questions .
• No Limitations. Doctoral programs without a dissertation can also be more flexible in nature. They could be delivered online, for instance, so you do not need to be living in the same city as your university to successfully complete your degree. That is a huge advantage for those who are employed or cannot afford the travel expenses. It allows higher education degrees to become more accessible overall. Depending on the requirements of the program and the department offering it, these types of programs can become some of the easiest PhD programs to get into due to their open access.
• No Wasted Time. These types of degrees may also take less time to complete since there is no long dissertation to complete beforehand. You will need to spend less time finding thesis writing services , working on the project with your supervisor, and can focus on coursework or other commitments instead. It is no secret that graduate students have a lot on their plate. Working on a dissertation can make a PhD a very singular and lonely experience, so having the option to opt out of it may be very beneficial for the education and well-being of many students.
• No Unnecessary Research. If you are planning to figure out how to transition from academia to industry , a doctorate degree without dissertation may be worth it for you. The research required for lends itself to academic jobs, meaning that jobs in industry are less likely to see as much value in a complex research project. When a career in industry is of interest to you, you may to consider alternative doctoral programs that better suit your interests. Whatever field you are interested in, getting professional experience at the end of a PhD may be more beneficial to you than a dissertation will.
• Career Preparation. Those that wish to learn how to find a job in academia know that it can be competitive and difficult, even if you have a doctorate degree. It is never guaranteed that you will find a stable position at a college or university after graduation. Getting a role with tenure or finding the right amount of teaching experience is not the simplest of tasks, which can lead to a lot of uncertainty and doubt in PhD students. Resolving those worries starts with getting as much research possible. Being aware of how to publish as a graduate student is key, but your dissertation is also a great way to indicate that you have what it takes to succeed in a career in academia from a research perspective. If you need to find a postdoc position or hope to continue working as a professor, completing a dissertation during your PhD will be a step in the right direction.
• Skill Recognition. A program without a dissertation may not be the best representation of your skills or abilities. They are often very specific or only benefit a particular subset of students/professionals already working in the field. In contrast, PhD programs with a dissertation can lend themselves more to what you are good at if you are a talented writer and researcher or do not meet the criteria for a more specified program. If this is the case, traditional research programs might be more appealing to you. An internship or another type of project may not be the most ideal reflection of how you can contribute to a future career. Therefore, a doctorate degree without a dissertation may be too much of a jump away from your goals.
• Negative Reputation. Due to a doctorate degree with no dissertation being a more modern concept, it may also be seen as of lower value than a traditional research PhDs in a variety of industries as well as academic settings. As these programs are more likely to be fully online, this may give them a bad rap as well. Changes to the traditional format of academic study may require additional explanation to employers and could result in lower job prospects. As always, this will certainly depend on what field you are entering, but not completing a dissertation can potentially sour your CV in the eyes of those who are hiring.
• Restrictive Matriculation. As much as graduate programs without a dissertation may be flexible, they are also restrictive in other ways. While online programs can be extremely convenient for some students, others simply do not learn the best in that environment. Virtual delivery of courses can be one of the best graduate school recruitment strategies , but can also alienate other types of students and deter them from applying. The majority of these doctorate programs are completely online or require you to already be a working professional, which might not be the case for some of those.

 Conclusion

The higher education landscape is ever-changing. What is necessary to access the highest level of learning possible constantly shifts as the years go by. With online programs, you have more options than ever before when considering the ways to achieve a valuable education that will lead to a fulfilling career. When evaluating should you pursue a master’s or a PhD , really get down to the reason why you are completing a graduate degree. Search different universities and programs to see what is out there for you. An informed decision is always the smartest one, so it is important to become very familiar with the choices available early on.

Speaking with PhD consultants can also be helpful for your applications or for determining what is the right program that will serve you best based on your individual goals. Depending on your discipline and interests, a dissertation (or a graduate program, in general) may not always be necessary to achieve your dream. Ideally, you will want your eventual program to match with your grad school career goals statement and get you the best shot at securing your future plans. It is up to you with regards to how you get there.

PhD programs in particular are meant to prove your suitability for the field you are pursuing. With the degree, you are expected to be a working academic with the expectation of contributing to current scholarship in some way. This means that you have to be able to present forward-thinking research and fill gaps in contemporary publications. The dissertation or thesis is a culmination of your graduate school research displayed in one final project that you must defend. 

While you may have another form of final project, not having to write a long dissertation or prepare for a thesis defense will be a plus for a lot of applicants. They can also be fully delivered online and be more accessible to students living in another place. These types of programs seem to suit more industry jobs rather than other careers in academia, which may be appealing to applicants who wish to transition to industry.

The programs that do not require a dissertation may be seen as less valuable than ones that do, depending on the discipline. The online format most of the programs entail may be a benefit for others, but a detriment to others. A doctorate degree can also be not as useful for students who wish to continue working in academic settings, where research experience is crucial.

Some of the most common doctoral degrees you will find that do not require a PhD are Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and other doctorates related to public health domains.

Many programs will still have a final submission or capstone project as part of their curriculum that does not need the same amount of research effort as a formal dissertation. They may also need to complete for some of field experience that illustrates their capabilities for working within the discipline chosen. For instance, 

Most of the time, you do not need a master’s or PhD to apply to medical school . If you meet the other academic requirements such as high MCAT and GPA scores, a graduate degree will not necessarily boost your chances. If you were to complete a master’s or doctorate-level degree, you will likely need to have research experience regardless, so choosing a program with a thesis or dissertation will probably be more beneficial to you in the long run.

Academic positions are more focused on teaching and research in a higher education setting. They could be listed as on the tenure-track, which leads to permanent employment, or the non-tenure-track, which does not guarantee permanent employment. Industry jobs tend to work outside of universities and are based within enterprises and other for-profit companies. Many PhDs and other doctoral-level graduates can work in either the academic or industry setting, depending on their interests or job prospects in the field.

Seeking professional help from a grad school admissions consultant can improve all aspects of your application. They are typically trained experts who are very knowledgeable about competitive academic programs at the graduate level. They can assist with writing or editing graduate school statement of purpose , conduct interview simulations, situational judgment test preparation, and more. If you are struggling with deciding between a dissertation and non-dissertation doctoral programs, consultants can point you in the right direction that aligns with your goals.

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Earn a Doctorate Online With No Dissertation

These research projects allow students to influence policy and practice changes by conducting research with a narrow focus that solves a problem.

Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) offers doctoral degrees, including a Doctor of Education and Leadership in Healthcare (Ed.D.), with no dissertation requirements. 

Because NMC has adopted the scholarly research project, students are making a difference in healthcare, academia and communities.

The online doctorate for healthcare professionals gives students the opportunity to integrate the guiding values of NMC - caring, excellence, holism, learning and respect - at the upper echelons of both academic and healthcare institutions. 

Here’s what makes this online Ed.D. program with no dissertation stand out in a competitive field.

Online Doctorate in Healthcare Leadership: Beyond the Dissertation

Revolutionizing ed.d: the scholarly research advantage over dissertation.

The doctoral dissertation has been a common requirement of doctoral programs, but many colleges and universities are taking a more modern approach. 

Debate in academic circles about the value of a doctoral research project has led to a change in philosophy about what is most beneficial for students.

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) Consortium issued a statement that called for a transformation of the doctoral candidate’s culminating academic work. 

The call for change resulted in the scholarly research project, which acts as an exemplar of the student taking all that they’ve learned and demonstrating the impact of their knowledge with real, concrete results.

The difference between a dissertation and a scholarly project is the type of research being conducted.

While a dissertation is original research with a goal to generate new knowledge, the doctoral scholarly project is translational research, which ‘translates’ the research into practice through quality improvement or evidence-based practice initiatives.

Our emphasis on the doctoral research project represents a modern approach to a candidate’s final demonstration of expertise in the subject matter, allowing students to apply theory to solve problems in a real-world practical setting.  

All of this is accomplished without losing any of the academic rigor that one would expect of a doctoral program.

NMC is a leader in putting forth this new academic ideal, with students whose breadth of knowledge encompasses the most innovative practices in the modern world. 

The doctoral scholarly research project is a showcase of their work and the core knowledge they’ve gained through the academic process.

Read more: Why NMC’s Online Doctorate Has No Dissertation

Merging Healthcare and Education

While NMC may be known for our nursing programs, including our Doctor of Nursing Practice , we’ve recognized a need for non-nursing doctorates online.

NMC’s Doctor of Education and Leadership in Healthcare is for leaders who want to develop effective management solutions in healthcare, education or the community.

Healthcare and education are industries that are in the midst of upheaval. 

The healthcare industry is managing the organization-wide changes brought about by the Affordable Care Act and an aging population while successfully making the transition to a preventive healthcare model that emphasizes value over volume. 

Higher education is coping with a mounting student debt dilemma, substantial shifts in financial aid and demographic patterns, and ongoing accreditation considerations.

Education and leadership doctoral programs, like the one at NMC, prepares students to meet the demands of healthcare and education.

Career Impact of an Online Healthcare Leadership Ed.D.

A Doctor of Education can open up leadership opportunities and advance your career.

“An Ed.D. provides a competitive advantage in attaining leadership roles in healthcare, community-based and private organizations, and education,” said Dr. Alice Kindschuh, director of doctoral studies at Nebraska Methodist College (NMC).

“It also demonstrates a commitment to your profession to employers and strengthens your skill-set as an innovative change agent.”

NMC’s education doctorate program has two tracks:

• Education and Leadership in Healthcare

You can choose to study education and leadership to become a college or university professor, researcher, program director or administrator. 

A doctorate in public health policy will allow you to work as a public health consultant, health policy advisor, health and safety engineer, public health program specialist or an executive director of a public health non-profit.

Read more: Getting a Doctor of Education in Public Health Policy Online

We understand the management skills it takes to successfully run enterprises as wide-ranging and ever-evolving as healthcare and education. The Ed.D. program allows us to pass those skills on to the next generation of leaders, who will be ready to meet challenges that are only beginning to take shape.

Read more: What Job Can I Get With a Doctor of Education?

Evolving Higher Education: Introducing the Streamlined Online Ed.D.

With just 24 months of full-time study, you’ll be able to add “Dr.” to your name.

We thought long and hard about how to make this program convenient for the modern professional without losing any of the scholarly rigor that defines the doctoral degree. 

Other programs require a longer time commitment, due to a dissertation process that has stymied even the best candidates.

We came to the conclusion that two years is the perfect amount of time to provide this education. It’s long enough to attain the ultimate expertise in a given subject matter while still creating a viable timeframe that won’t have you feeling like you’ll never be done with school.

What’s more, a flexible doctoral degree online allows students to balance coursework with their professional lives more than would be possible with an on-campus degree. 

While you still have assignments on a regular basis, you choose when and where to complete them. 

Read more: Steps to Succeed in Online Learning as a Graduate Student

Support and Resources for Online Ed.D. Students

As an online student at NMC, you have access to academic and technical support to help you succeed during your program.

• On-staff writing coach and statistician to assist in planning and evaluating scholarly research projects. 
• Networking and community building through online discussion boards.
• Digital library and on-staff librarian to help with research.
• Faculty office hours.

Testimonials: Success Stories from our Online Ed.D. Graduates

Graduates of NMC’s doctoral degree programs take on leadership positions in healthcare systems and education. Here’s what some of our graduates had to say about their experience in the education and leadership doctoral programs:

Josey Harris, Education and Leadership in Healthcare

“The Ed.D. program is very well designed, which facilitated my ability to manage the competing priorities of my home life, my career and my schooling simultaneously. 

“Larger assignments in one course are balanced by having smaller assignments in your other courses, which helps to minimize feelings of being overwhelmed. 

“In addition, the one-week break after every five weeks of class is a lifesaver. It allowed me to decompress a little and start back refreshed every time!”

Lacey Petersen, Education and Leadership in Healthcare

"I am so proud of completing my doctoral research project and earning the distinction of being able to say that I have earned a Doctor of Education.

“The NMC faculty are truly some of the most diverse, compassionate and educated individuals that I have ever been blessed to meet. I am humbled by the variety of backgrounds, level of experience, and expertise that my professors at NMC had. 

“I will forever be grateful how they shared this knowledge with us as they facilitated our education. I am most definitely a more well-rounded individual for the insight and perspectives that they shared with us throughout this program. 

“From the first day to the last day, I was always made to feel cared for, important, and valued as a student!”

Vanessa Humphreys, Education and Leadership in Healthcare

“Through the Ed.D. program, I am most proud of expanding my knowledge in the fields of education, public policy, healthcare and community needs. 

“The online discussion forums with fellow students, projects and activities throughout the program not only made me more aware of the various challenges presented in our communities, but the steps we can take to work towards effective change. 

“The coursework also allowed me to reflect more on my personal goals, professional aspirations, workplace environment and the community I live and work in. The online Ed.D. program allowed me time to celebrate all that we have accomplished so far, and critically think about the role I would like to take in my community moving forward.

"Interacting with faculty, staff and students was also such a humbling and inspiring experience. To learn about what each member of the program was working on has motivated me to connect with local organizations in order to continue the scholarly research work I started in the Ed.D. program."

Embracing Change: How Our Online Ed.D. Makes a Real Difference

In creating the healthcare and leadership doctorate online, we sought to make a program that offered an exceptional academic experience while still being flexible enough to accommodate the needs of the modern professional.

Earning your terminal degree will be a challenge, but we want to make sure that challenge comes from the pedigree of the coursework, not the unreasonable criteria of a dissertation, technological hurdles or the prospect of having to come to campus.

Ready to advance your career with a flexible, innovative online EdD program? Learn more about our no-dissertation Doctor of Education and Leadership in Healthcare , and take the first step towards educational excellence and professional growth. Apply now and transform your future in healthcare leadership!

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15 Best Online EdD Degrees with No Dissertation Programs

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: March 11, 2024 , Reading time: 30 minutes

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In this article, we will be covering...

A career in education is one of the most rewarding. Often working in school settings across all levels of learning, education professionals thrive in working with students or formulating initiatives beyond the classroom that can positively impact the educational system.

While an entry-level position in the field only requires at least a degree in education or a related field, many decide to solidify their knowledge and skills by pursuing an advanced degree. It is not uncommon to find teachers and other education professionals who enroll in doctoral degree programs. This necessary step allows them to enhance their credentials and help them achieve higher and more important positions within the academe and related fields.

A Doctor of Education program is an ideal choice for those who want to boost their opportunities of landing leadership positions. It also encompasses other aspects of the education profession, such as curriculum development, learning theory, and public policy. Fortunately, many of these doctoral degree programs are fully available online.  

Quick audio summary:

Online doctoral programs in education help working professionals pursue their terminal degrees while juggling their personal demands at home and work. These education doctorate degrees aid them in preparation to lead various academic levels, allowing them to take on leadership positions and drive change in the educational system.

Doctor of Education Concentrations

Education leadership.

This specialization provides educators with essential tools integral to their success inside and outside the classroom. As educational leaders, they are expected to lend administrative help to school principals, formulate techniques for classroom teaching, and develop initiatives for other educational professionals.

Students in this program are equipped to lead schools and organizations through conducting, interpreting, and evaluating research and data. They are then expected to diagnose and resolve organizational challenges that affect learning success.

Instructional Design

In this specialization, students are trained to examine the relationship between the design of technology, cultural context, digital media, learning, and social interaction. They are exposed to cognition and design theories while being encouraged to dive deep into them and learn how to apply such theories in their practice.

Students who pursue this major have an opportunity to explore a wide range of career paths, including faculty and teaching, administrative posts, and even government or nonprofit positions.

Learning Design

Those who wish to take on leadership roles in the field of education in relation to the latest theories and technologies may want to consider opting for the Learning Design specialization. This option allows students to prepare for strategic leadership roles in a variety of settings, including classrooms and corporations.

In this program, they are expected to master innovative learning practices in the digital context while ensuring their practical applications to real-world problems in the field of education.

Curriculum and Instruction

Designed for educators and practitioners, the curriculum and instruction specialization is an ideal choice for those whose interests lie in teaching in higher education or spearheading program improvements in various settings, such as education, social service agencies, military organizations, or businesses.

The program emphasizes the importance of identifying the obstacles to effective practice and program improvement by evaluating educational and clinical programs and their effectiveness.

Multicultural Education

This specialization is the best choice for students who wish to gain a better understanding of the diverse contexts within the field of education, including sociocultural, political, economic, and linguistic aspects. They will be able to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills needed in teaching, scholarship, and advocacy.

This program is often grounded in common conceptual areas, including critical social theory and schooling, human rights and social movements, and alternative research paradigms, among others.

Special Education

One of the popular majors in many doctorates in education programs, the special education major, prepares the leadership personnel to serve in public or private schools and other educational environments and services. Students are expected to develop knowledge and skills in various aspects, including management, leadership, collaboration, administration, supervision, and program evaluation, among many others.

This specialization is integral in preparing quality leaders who can transform the educational landscape for children with exceptional needs. They can advance their careers by taking on the administrator or executive leader position.

Urban Education

This particular specialization prepares aspiring urban school superintendents, central office administrators, and advocacy organization leaders to lead and transform complex educational systems in urban communities and contexts.

While most of the programs focus on urban school challenges, some recognize the interconnectedness of other issues, encompassing state, national, regional, and global scales.

What is a Capstone Project?

Talking about doctoral degree programs without dissertation-based final requirements, we’re brought to its alternative, which is the capstone project. Its usage and popularity vary across countries’ higher education systems, but here in the country, many degrees feature the capstone project as the final requirement, including doctorate degree programs.

It is sometimes known as a Dissertation in Practice or Problem of Practice Project, and in the context of the doctoral degree, a capstone project is like a practical application period, where doctoral students take their learning throughout the program and use these to address a specific set of real-world problems, often from within their respective areas/workplaces.

It is also multifaceted in that students get to apply their coursework together with appropriate research methods in resolving their chosen problems and working together with their mentors; they often have a degree of freedom to tailor their projects as they see fit.

As with online Management doctoral programs, capstone project often results in innovative solutions that most often get adopted long-term in the settings in which they are applied. Given their practical aspect, the results of capstone projects also add to the overall body of knowledge regarding education and can also be replicated in similar contexts elsewhere.

We might compare the capstone project with dissertation research, but it’s certainly not the case that one is better than the other. It’s simply down to the design of the curriculum and the intended outcomes of doctoral programs. The traditional dissertation process aims to come up with original knowledge, which is why we see it in research-focused Ph.D. degree programs.

Capstone Projects are favored in EdD degree programs that prepare their graduates for their forthcoming higher education leadership roles by giving them a venue for the practical application of their learnings.

How an EdD differs from a PhD

As a whole, more people might have heard of a Ph.D.; after all, it is arguably the most common terminal degree across different higher education systems worldwide. EdD degree programs, on the other hand, are less numerous. So how does a Doctor of Education (EdD) differ from a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree?

As a whole, there isn’t a very wide gulf between the two. They possess many similarities, with both being terminal degrees, that is, the highest degree/title that can be awarded to professionals in their fields, similar to Juris Doctor/JDs for lawyers and MDs for doctors.

Both doctoral programs require significant amounts of research, and students are trained accordingly with appropriate research techniques. Both degrees also require a form of published output from students as one of the requirements for graduation, with their output often published in academic journals.

Still, both degrees tend to have stringent and selective admissions processes, as candidates for the degrees are expected to have the potential to give solid contributions to the field’s body of knowledge. Lastly, both degree programs tend to have roughly the same amount of required credits and can be completed within the same amount of years.

The differences between the two doctoral degree programs lie in some key areas. First, the Ph.D. is more of a research-focused doctoral degree program. The Ph.D. also tends to have a more scholarly focus, with graduates often going on to work within academia and take up research-related roles. By their research-focused nature, the Ph.D. has final requirements that are expected to result in original knowledge, i.e., in the form of a doctoral dissertation.

Meanwhile, an EdD/Doctor of Education degree is generally a practice-focused degree, focusing on sharpening students’ skills through the combination of practice and established research methods. There is also an emphasis on honing educational leadership skills that they can apply to various settings and educational systems, whether K-12, higher education, or others.

This practical application is generally centered on a problem/set of problems that have been identified by the student together with their mentors. This is why students’ final requirements are often in the form of capstone projects. As a result of this practice-focused curriculum design, the EdD doctoral program opens a broader range of non-academic roles that graduates can enter into aside from within the educational system, such as leadership positions in government agencies or the private sector.

Top 15 Doctor of Education Online Programs Without Dissertation

Nova southeastern university.

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Aiming to help students move education forward at various levels, Nova Southeastern University offers the online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership degree program. This doctorate degree online helps them solve real-world problems through project-based planning and implementation. They will be taught to formulate innovative ways to improve the school and boost administrative competencies.

Unlike Ph.D. programs that are often research-heavy with their rigorous dissertation process, an education doctorate provides students with a hands-on learning experience. To successfully earn this degree, students need to complete a doctoral capstone project. They can choose among two options, but if they want to do away with the traditional dissertation, then opting for the Strategic Research Project is the best choice.

This degree is one of the online doctoral degree programs that is designed for practicing superintendents, principals, and lead teachers from public and nonpublic K-12 learning institutions. They must have a master’s degree in education or a related field in order to get admitted into the program.

Texas A&M University

Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

Students who wish to specialize in leadership roles within the education system with an emphasis on curriculum development will want to consider earning a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University. Like other online EdD programs, this specialization allows one to complete the coursework at their own pace through a web-based delivery system.

Requiring the completion of 64 credit hours, this degree focuses on three major goals of the program, including leadership, discovery, and application of knowledge. Students are expected to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge in curriculum and instruction, preparing them for new leadership roles within the domains of educational practice. This includes roles in school change and improvement initiatives, professional development, curriculum leadership in schools or districts, and organizational management.

Students wishing to get admitted into the program must have earned a master’s degree and a minimum of five years’ worth of teaching experience.

Vanderbilt University

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Curriculum

Vanderbilt University offers one of the quality online EdD programs under its Department of Leadership, Policy, and Organizations. The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Curriculum aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice. The online program can take 36 months to complete, designed to accommodate the needs of mid-career K-12 and higher education professionals.

The online format of the program means that working professionals in the field of education can still pursue their doctorate degree without compromising their blossoming careers. Students are equipped with robust knowledge and skills that will help them make a positive impact on education policy and practice. The program accounts for 84 credit hours, 30 of which can be admitted as credit transfers from a prior master’s degree.

As one of the online EdD degrees with no dissertation programs, this doctorate degree culminates in a capstone during the third and final year of study. Students must need to complete a year-long independent research and analytic task within a group project.

Liberty University

Online Doctor of Education in Administration and Supervision – Educational Leadership

Liberty University offers various online doctorate programs in education. Among the options is the Doctor of Education in Administration and Supervision – Educational Leadership. Designed for students who are preparing for licensed school administration, this terminal degree provides studies and training integral to the management of education organizations.

By the end of the program, students are expected to learn all about education law and policies, leadership principles and ethics, and issues and trends in learning technologies. Some of the courses they cover in this online degree program include Educational Leadership and Public Relations, Theories of Educational Leadership, Advanced Learning Theory and Research, and Advanced Education Law, among others.

The degree is specifically designed for licensed educators pursuing endorsements in administration. To be qualified, they must document an active, renewable teaching license and a full-time contractual teaching experience under a license.

Spalding University

Doctorate of Education in Leadership

Spalding University boasts one of the interdisciplinary and dynamic online programs with its Doctor of Education in Leadership degree offer. This program is designed for those who want to earn their terminal degree and take on leadership roles within the school system.

The courses in this program are delivered one at a time, which means one can earn their degree within two years while juggling their personal and professional responsibilities. This degree will help students stand out as exemplary practitioners of ethical organizational leadership. Some of the courses included in the curriculum are Systems Theory and Leadership, Ethical Leadership, and Research Methodology and Problem-Solving.

For admission, students must meet the program requirements, such as a master’s degree from an accredited university and a GPA of 3.0. They must also submit their resume along with two letters of recommendation, a critique of a journal article, and official transcripts from the learning institutions they have previously attended.

Nebraska Methodist College

Online Doctorate in Education and Leadership in Healthcare

The Doctor of Education in Leadership and Healthcare offered by Nebraska Methodist College allows students to accelerate their careers without compromising their pursuit of a terminal degree. The program’s online format allows them to find the right balance between their personal and professional life.

The program curriculum focuses on honing their knowledge and skills in transforming organizational culture through the use of concepts like reflection, relationship building, education, accountability, and organizational awareness.

Instead of an arduous dissertation process, students only need to complete a scholarly doctoral practice project where they can demonstrate the effective application of the theories and concepts to address education and practice issues.

The program can be completed within 24 months if students are enrolled full-time. Part-time students will be able to earn the degree in 36 months.

The University of Mississippi

Online Doctor of Educational Administration

The University of Southern Mississippi offers an online doctor of educational administration with no dissertation requirement. This 54-credit-hour degree can be completed within three years and is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP).

This program is most suitable for those looking to attain leadership roles in schools, helping them become an effective administrator at a district level. Students will gain real-world experience in solving on-hand issues as they work their way through the program. They will tackle theories of teacher supervision, school budgeting and finance, and educational leadership, among others.

Students can also avail of scholarship opportunities. In fact, the university offers an Online Student Scholarship program that grants first-time, fully online students with $500 for their first semester. The admission process requires a copy of the student’s current educator license with at least three years of teaching experience. 

Virginia Commonwealth University

Doctor of Education in Leadership

Virginia Commonwealth University offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership that can be completed entirely online. The 48-credit hour program has a 36-month/3-year completion time frame and is based on a cohort model, which they call a Learning Community. Each Learning Community, in turn, has cohorts that are based around the learning areas:

• Higher Education Leadership
• K12 Leadership
• General Leadership

The program begins each summer and features an action-oriented curriculum design that is anchored on principles of adult learning. The program’s curriculum design is also anchored on the analytical lenses of equity, accountability, and learning theory to facilitate learning through common perspectives. The degree program helps prepare students to become effective leaders in various careers.

While the program is delivered entirely online, students are required to attend a brief 2 to 3-day in-person residency every summer at VCU. This facilitates building relationships within the cohort, and provides students with guidance and support in the program.

As a final requirement, students participate in a 3-semester long collaborative capstone project called a Dissertation in Practice , where they work with a faculty chair and a community-based partner.

East Tennessee State University 

Ed.D in Educational Leadership Ed.D in Global Sport Leadership

East Tennessee State University offers two online doctoral degree programs: an Ed.D in Educational Leadership and an Ed.D in Global Sport Leadership. The former has three concentration areas and leads to a dissertation as the final output, while the latter leads to a capstone program as the final requirement.

The Ed.D in Global Sport Leadership is a unique 60-credit hour program and is aimed at preparing students for leadership positions in today’s highly competitive sports industry, whether at the academic or professional levels. The degree program is delivered 100% online and follows a cohort model.

In order to deliver a truly global perspective in sports, the degree program has global study abroad components on top of standard coursework. The degree requires students to attend international sporting events, which ultimately feeds into the final Doctoral Capstone Project.

University of Virginia

Ed.D in Curriculum & Instruction

The University of Virginia offers its Ed.D in Curriculum and Instruction as an online program. It is designed to prepare graduates to be effective practitioner-scholars who excel in localized problem-solving within settings that are focused on the areas of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. The degree program has a minimum of 72 credit hours and follows an asynchronous model.

In a nod to providing a flexible degree program, UVA lets students map out their own personalized academic plans, which adapt to their previous commitments. This highly adaptable and individualized arrangement conceivably lets students fulfill their coursework from anywhere in the world. Likewise, the degree allows up to 24 credits to be transferred in, provided that these were earned at an accredited institution within ten years of admission to the program.

The program’s final Capstone Project consists of 10 credit hours. 6 of these credits are dedicated to Field Study, where students are challenged to perform unpaid fieldwork at an education-related partner organization, addressing a specific Problem of Practice in the process.

Morehead State University

Doctor of Education (Ed.D)

Morehead State University offers its Doctor of Education degree program in a flexible self-paced online format. The program is aimed at preparing students to become practitioner-scholars who can assume multiple roles in educational leadership, all working towards the goal of improving educational attainment.

Morehead State’s Doctor of Education program has a choice of 4 specialization areas, namely Adult and Higher Education , P-12 Administrative Leadership , Educational Technology Leadership , and Exceptional Child Leadership , with all paths amounting to a total of 60 credit hours.

Each Specialization has its own further emphasis area, and while there are a set of emphasis areas pre-planned by faculty, they are meant to be flexible and can be adapted by students accordingly to fit their individual plans, aspirations, and professional interests.

As part of their final requirement, students must complete a doctoral capstone project regardless of their specialization area. This consists of a total of 12 credit hours.

West Texas A&M University

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Ed.D)

West Texas A&M University offers its Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership as an online program that has a total of 60 credit hours and lasts three years. The program also follows a cohort model and equips students with a skillset of great depth that can enable them to lead any school district of various sizes and locations. Students can also transfer up to 12 credits in the program.

While the program provides excellent leadership preparation for its students, it is designed with two distinct tracks aimed primarily at providing leadership to rural schools. The Doctorate of Educational Leadership track is focused on problems of practice in rural school settings, such as school districts that serve less than 1,000 students (it is noted that this is the case for 50% of school districts across Texas).

The Doctorate of Leadership in Higher Education, meanwhile, is designed for those who have Master’s Degrees in areas other than educational leadership but want to hold administrative positions in a higher education environment or in educational settings that serve rural schools and communities.     

Instead of the traditional dissertation, both tracks have a Doctoral Capstone Project as part of their final requirements. Students’ scholarly work throughout the program’s three years is meant to result in an extensive literature review, as well as two publication-ready articles.

Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a 78-credit hour hybrid Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program. The program follows a cohort model, and students can attend the program part-time or full-time.

The program has two concentration areas: PK-12 Education, and Higher Education. It features a curriculum design that is geared towards the goal of achieving socially-just transformative leadership in educational settings at the local, state, regional, and national levels. To this end, students take courses on educational leadership, research, and applied practice on top of their chosen specialization areas.

As part of the final requirements, students have a choice of completing either a dissertation or a capstone project in order to target a specific problem of practice that they have identified.

University of Illinois Chicago

Ed.D in Urban Education Leadership

Located in one of the country’s biggest cities, the University of Illinois Chicago offers an EdD in Urban Education Leadership. This nationally recognized program is designed to prepare and develop education leaders, primarily principals, to become effective leaders in urban school settings and work towards significantly improving teaching and learning in this milieu.

The intensive and highly selective program follows a cohort model and consists of a total of 80 credit hours, or 96 credit hours if the Superintendent’s Endorsement is included in the EdD.

The selection preference is on candidates that have exhibited instructional expertise and success in leadership roles, as well as a strong commitment towards improving schools and learning, given the high-need context of the area immediately served by the university.

The program features in-depth coursework that is designed to be immediately applicable and has individual courses that build upon each other. Students in the program likewise get on-the-job coaching throughout their stay in the program, as well as a full year of internship under a mentor-principal.        

Wilmington University

Ed.D in Educational Leadership Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership Ed.D in Organizational Leadership, Learning, and Innovation

Wilmington University offers 3 Doctor of Education degree programs that are delivered in a variety of formats. The Ed.D in Educational Leadership (49-51 credit hours) is a hybrid program, while the Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership (51 Credits) and Ed.D in Organizational Leadership, Learning, and Innovation (54 credit hours) are offered in traditional on-campus, hybrid, and fully online formats. All three are also offered in Wilmington University’s FLEX format, which lets students attend classes synchronously online or face-to-face.

The three-degree programs are all designed with the aim of preparing students to effectively take leadership roles in their respective settings, whether they be school districts, higher education, or organizations. Students also get to choose from concentration areas in each degree program and are trained in skillsets that involve practical problem-solving as leaders.

As part of their final requirements, all three degree programs conclude in a doctoral capstone project—also known as an Applied Inquiry Project or a Dissertation in Practice Project—and are primarily focused on applied research aimed at a problem in practice identified by the student together with their advisor.

Typical Career Paths for Doctor of Education Graduates

University president.

Often considered equivalent to a CEO of a major corporation, a university president’s responsibility extends to overseeing both the academic and administrative operations of an educational institution. Most of them concentrate on enrollment rates and student GPAs, all the while making sure that the school stays within budget. They are also tasked to set and maintain school policy and to give recommendations for changes and improvement if warranted.

As of 2022, the median annual pay for a top executive is $100,090 . Beyond educational qualifications, becoming a university president draws more from experience in education and administration.

Chief Learning Officer

The role of a chief learning officer in an organization is to take charge of the learning strategy. They are primarily responsible for training employees and making sure to comply with the policies and regulations within the school. This can be done through mentoring and coaching. The chief learning officer also ensures that their workplace standard is met.

The latest statistics say that chief learning officers, also known as training and development managers, can earn a median pay of $120,000 annually .

School Superintendent

As a school superintendent, one makes sure that the daily operations and long-range planning of a school district are running smoothly. They serve as the point person for all district matters. It is their job to supervise school principals and district staff. They are also known to work with school board members and manage fiscal operations.

Sometimes, school superintendents also need to hire staff, solve problems, and lobby for resources. To become one, a superintendent must first gain ample experience in teaching in the classroom and serve as a school principal. A master’s degree is needed to enter this position, but a doctorate degree can amplify their chances of landing the role.

Policy Maker

In educational institutions, a policymaker plays a critical role in ensuring that policies at all levels, from local and state to federal, are done with a systemic approach. They tend to focus on different things, depending on the priorities of the educational institution. Some focus on reducing student absenteeism. Ultimately, policymakers decide the policies that will lead to positive changes that can impact the next generation.

As policymakers, one should have analytical skills and hefty expertise on important subject matters. At the very least, they should have a solid understanding of the complex issues in education, public policy, and legislation.

School Principal

Principals are integral to the smooth higher-level operations in a school. It is their responsibility to create safe learning environments for students and to set the goals that students and teachers should meet. They also make sure that school facilities are safe and protected, often planning regular maintenance of school grounds and equipment.

Beyond the obvious duties, they are also helping shape a vision of academic success for their students. They make sure to cultivate leadership in their teachers and other staff. According to BLS, school principals can get a median annual pay of $101,320 .

College Provost

Often considered as postsecondary education administrators, provosts serve as academic chairs or heads of a college department or faculty. They usually report directly to the college or university president. While this position is exciting, it also comes with great responsibilities. Their duties include implementing academic priorities for the university. They make sure that there is a clear direction for the curricula and allocate resources to support initiatives.

Provosts work with department heads, academic deans, faculty, and staff. They often aim to ensure that students will receive a quality education. Annually, they can earn a median pay of $99,940 .

Curriculum Director

Hired by the school board, a curriculum director sets out an effective educational program in place to help students realize their learning potential. They often work closely with teachers when implementing and overseeing a high-standard curriculum. They make sure to provide solutions and initiatives that can meet the unique challenges of a particular school board.

Curriculum directors are expected to be good at planning and evaluating as well as developing a team. Their work also involves developing instructional materials and assessing their effectiveness. Every year, their median pay is around $66,490 .

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to finish an online edd program.

The answer will often depend on whether students are earning the program full-time or part-time. It also depends on the term starts available in a higher learning institution. Typically, a Doctor of Education program will take two to three to complete. For schools with multiple term starts and accelerated program options, the duration can be significantly cut. Other factors that can affect the program duration also include specializations and transfer credit policies.

Students enrolled on a part-time basis will understandably take longer to earn this terminal degree. Working professionals who go through the coursework at their own pace may take four to seven years in order to complete the program.

Is an online EdD degree worth pursuing?

The Doctor of Education program is offered as an alternative to a Doctor of Philosophy in Education, which is heavier on research. An Ed.D. program is more of a practitioner’s degree, making it a suitable choice for academic researchers and college professors. Those who work in K-12 schools or pursue a position as college administrators will find this degree quite useful.

A doctorate in education can help grow one’s skillset and boost their earning potential. It is especially valuable if they are aiming to attain positions in education and educational administration. This includes job positions such as education administrators, superintendents, provosts, academic deans, and so much more.

What are the most common admission requirements to an EdD program?

The admission requirements to a doctor of education degree program may vary from university to university. Generally, one is required to hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution. They must also have demonstrated experience in educational roles along with leadership potential. Other requirements may include the following:

• Graduate admission application
• Official transcripts from undergraduate and graduate institutions
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation

What are the common requirements for admission into online EdD programs?

As is the standard with all graduate degrees, applicants to EdD programs are expected to have passed GPA standards, typically around 2.75 or 3 as a minimum. It varies between universities, but some may also require GRE/GMAT/MAT scores. To prove that applicants have completed both the required Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, they are required official transcripts, and most universities will prefer degrees awarded by institutions that have regional accreditation.

As previously mentioned, EdDs tend to have a degree of selectiveness and stringency that is typical of doctorate degrees. Universities tend to require applicants to have verifiable references and recommendation letters aside from a CV/Résumé. Most importantly, in order to assess the capability of students to convey their ideas and conduct rigorous academic work, a personal essay from the applicant is typically required, which is complemented by interviews done by university faculty.

As a final note, this is not necessarily a university requirement, but it is a general rule that students enrolling in doctoral degree programs should already have a well-formed seed of an idea or problem they would like to pursue. That way, they would be better able to fit their forthcoming degree plans accordingly, and their mentors would be able to help them better.

Any lack of pre-existing ideas/research problems would be detected in students’ personal essays and subsequent interviews. As they say, never go to battle unprepared, and this is especially true with doctorate degrees.

How much do online EdD programs cost?

There is a wide variance between universities in terms of the total cost of their degrees. They each have their own set of fees that support the university on top of the cost of the degree itself, and some may have different rates for out-of-state students.

To get a rough sense of part of the costs involved, per-credit-hour costs for online EdD programs can range between $600-$1000, and they can have a total of a little more or less than 60 credit hours. To get the most exact costs for tuition, it is best to reach out to the universities themselves, as they will have dedicated personnel that assist students with concerns regarding how to finance degree programs.

However, graduate degrees and terminal degrees, such as online doctorate programs, tend to be on the more expensive side of the tuition costs scale. There are, however, several ways students can offset these costs aside from loans. Federal financial aid is always available, even for graduate students, and students may be able to access grants. It differs between universities, but most will have some form of Scholarship that eligible students can access. Lastly, this may be more toward on-campus students, but Graduate Assistantships are also an option.

What are the benefits of earning a doctorate degree online?

It will invariably require the student to invest in time, effort, and finances, but being a terminal degree, a doctorate degree represents the peak of a professional’s career advancement and educational achievement.

A doctorate degree signifies that one has contributed (and continues to contribute) original knowledge through research, which ultimately benefits the discipline they belong to. On a more practical note, the learnings one gets from the courses in a doctorate degree and the opportunity to apply these are invaluable to students who, by this point, are already working professionals.

Meanwhile, earning a doctorate degree online has the distinct benefit of giving students more flexibility to balance their careers and their coursework. There may also be savings for students since they do not have to attend classes in person. Still, for some, enrolling in an on-campus doctorate degree that they like or that fits them might involve having to move into a new city, which can be a great cost.

Granted, on-campus/in-person classes have aspects that are very hard, if not impossible, to replicate in online classes, but the latter does bring its own set of benefits and advantages.

Key Takeaways

As alternatives to dissertation research, the capstone research project provides venues for doctoral students to provide real-world practical solutions to problems in areas or fields that they believe must be addressed. The practical focus of a doctoral research project is what makes them a good fit for the desired outcomes in Doctor of Education programs.

Like most doctoral degree programs, Doctor of Education degrees have concentration areas. These online Ph.D. programs add specialized courses on top of a degree’s core course content, translating to crucial skills and insights that students can apply to their professional milieu.

Ph.D. Degrees are generally orientated toward research-focused roles within academia and require dissertation research as their final requirement. EdD degrees, meanwhile, have an added applicability toward taking leadership roles; hence they are often designed with capstone projects that enable online doctoral students to apply their knowledge to solve issues relevant to their field.

Additional Resources:

• The Best Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Graduate Schools
• The Best Online Doctor of Educational Psychology Degree Programs
• The Best Online Doctor of Counseling Education and Supervision Degrees

Related Posts

We’re certain of one thing—your search for more information on picking the best graduate degree or school landed you here. Let our experts help guide your through the decision making process with thoughtful content written by experts.

Question: Are there any online EdD programs that do not require a dissertation?

Answer: Yes – Several schools that offer Doctor of Education degrees online do not require students to complete a traditional dissertation. However, these programs typically include another type of capstone requirement, such as an applied project or requiring students to publish a journal quality research article.

At this time, the majority of online Ed.D. programs require students to complete a dissertation in order to earn their doctorate. There are, however, options for those who do not wish to write a traditional research-based thesis. Several programs now offer students the opportunity to develop and implement a more action-oriented “dissertation-in-practice” dissertation or an applied capstone project. While these capstone options also require a considerable amount of research and writing, they differ from traditional dissertations, focusing more on producing direct solutions to existing problems in education or organizational leadership, instead of furthering theory in the field.

A traditional dissertation has a formal five-chapter structure and aims to contribute to the existing scholarly literature on a topic in education development or leadership. The dissertation-in-practice, on the other hand, is an applied dissertation that still maintains the formal structure of the traditional dissertation, but focuses more on specific education challenges that students experience in their place of work. In contrast, the applied project is distinct from a dissertation in that it does not abide by the formal five-chapter dissertation structure, and has a more applied objective that relates to investigating or solving an educational practice or learning outcomes problem. In most cases, students who choose an applied project are tasked with examining an education challenge at their current place of employment (or one that is present regionally), and making an improvement to strategies or methods used in their organization or district.

Students should note that regardless of the option they choose, all three culminating experiences require rigorous research and writing. To learn more about the differences between these three capstone experiences, and to see a list of online programs that include an applied project option, continue reading below. (Note: At this time, the majority of online Ed.D. programs require students to complete some sort of a capstone experience whether it is a traditional research dissertation, a dissertation-in-practice, or an applied doctoral project.)

Ed.D. Dissertation and Dissertation-in-Practice vs. Applied Project

While each is an extensive undertaking, intended to represent the culmination of one’s doctoral studies, a traditional Ed.D. dissertation, a dissertation-in-practice, and an applied capstone project are all similar to and distinct from each other depending on how you compare them. Additionally, for Ed.D. students, one option is not inherently better than the other; therefore, it is important to understand the similarities and differences and to choose an option that best aligns with a student’s educational and professional goals.

For students who are worried about the time it may take to complete a traditional dissertation, many Ed.D. programs are now better incorporating dissertation work into the curriculum. From the beginning of students’ enrollment, these programs have a structured environment in which students conduct their research, write their dissertation chapters, and consult with instructors for their dissertation work. This is a fairly recent change from the way dissertations have historically been completed in doctoral programs, where the student embarks on his or her dissertation work after he or she completes all of the program coursework.

Ed.D. Dissertation

The dissertation is an original research study, in which students use qualitative and/or quantitative research methods to examine and analyze a specific issue related to education. The goal of this project is to contribute new insights on a particular topic in the field, making a positive impact on established methods or theories by advancing existing research.

Students typically begin the dissertation process by formulating a specific research question to investigate. After reviewing past research on the subject, they then design and conduct a study of their own and analyze the results. The final product is a five-chapter document detailing the entire dissertation process, including students’ research methodology and conclusions drawn from their findings. Overall, students can expect to spend a significant portion of their Ed.D. studies planning for and completing their dissertation. Most programs include multiple courses related to dissertation research and development, and allow for one or more years of independent study to finish the project. The entire process is typically overseen by a dissertation committee comprised of program faculty, who provide mentorship and make sure students reach certain deadlines along the way. In most cases, students must present their initial research proposal to this committee for approval, as well as explain their findings during a formal dissertation defense at the end of their studies. For Ed.D. students, a traditional dissertation is very similar to what students in a Ph.D. program complete.

Ed.D. Dissertation-in-Practice

Unlike a Ph.D. in Education, the Doctor of Education degree is more focused on practice than scholarly research. Indeed, with the establishment of the Carnegie Project for the Education Doctorate (CPED) as a guiding organization in the area of Ed.D. curriculum development, a growing number of Ed.D. programs have joined CPED and expressed their commitment to the scholar-practitioner model. As such, many Ed.D. programs are beginning to offer alternative dissertation options that more closely align with the Ed.D.’s role as a practitioner’s degree. Therefore, students who prefer to focus on practical skills and real-world applications over intensive academic inquiry should look for programs that offer a dissertation-in-practice and/or an applied project option.

The dissertation-in-practice is, in many ways, a compromise on the historical requirement that students must complete a dissertation in order to earn their doctorate, and the central mission of the Ed.D. degree to train students to be advanced scholar-practitioners (i.e. educational leaders who use research to solve education problems and challenges in their place of practice). Instead of focusing on furthering scholarly understanding of a particular issue in education, the goal of a dissertation-in-practice is to address a specific problem of practice (as such, a dissertation-in-practice is often referred to as an applied dissertation). Students who elect to complete a dissertation-in-practice identify a research question pertaining to a specific problem they wish to solve in their own place of work, or an educational issue that is affecting their region (e.g. school district or community).

Students completing a dissertation-in-practice utilize qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies to investigate their research question, and to gather data that will provide insights on addressing, preventing, or mitigating their chosen education problem. They also generally follow the same process that students completing traditional dissertations follow, which includes forming a faculty research committee, submitting and presenting a research proposal, writing their paper, and presenting their final conclusions to their committee. In general, dissertations-in-practice also follow the same formal five-chapter structure as a traditional dissertation, but the implications of students’ research are much more aligned with the goal of directly improving learning outcomes or enacting positive change in organizations and systems of education.

Ed.D. Capstone Project

An Ed.D. capstone project, on the other hand, is quite different from a traditional dissertation or even a dissertation-in-practice. While an applied project may have a similar scope or address a similar question as a dissertation-in-practice, instead of creating a traditional five-chapter dissertation, students typically have a much more concrete deliverable, designed to be implemented immediately with the goal of improving performance or learning outcomes in a particular setting. This can take many different forms, such as a new curriculum plan for students, a staff training program, a piece of learning software, a district-wide technology strategy, potential policy changes, or recommendations for other organizational improvements that may help solve a current educational issue.

As with a dissertation, students typically complete this project under the guidance of faculty mentors. They must submit their initial proposal for approval, as well as defend the final product in front of their project committee. Most Ed.D. programs that have an applied project option also include a number of credits or courses directly related to capstone development, as well as certain deadlines students must meet during the process. In the end, these projects are generally just as rigorous as a traditional dissertation, requiring a similar time commitment as well as substantial research and writing.

Note : For the most detailed information on a program’s dissertation or capstone requirement–as well as how the program may define a traditional dissertation vs. a dissertation-in-practice vs. a capstone project–it is always best to contact the program directly.

Online Ed.D. Programs with No Dissertation Required

Below is a list of online Doctor of Education programs that include an applied project rather than a dissertation (e.g., traditional research dissertation or a dissertation-in-practice) as their capstone requirement. Students interested in earning their Ed.D. without completing a dissertation have a variety of degree options to choose from, with specializations ranging from P-12 Educational Administration to Global Sport Leadership. Keep in mind, the requirements and goal of each program’s capstone project or culminating experience may vary, depending largely on the degree’s particular area of focus within education or organizational leadership.

Below are the schools that currently offer Ed.D. programs online which do not require a dissertation (either a traditional dissertation or a dissertation in practice):

• A.T. Still University : Doctor of Education in Health Professions (Doctoral Research Project)
• Boston College : Executive Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education (Professional Capstone Project)
• Bradley University : Doctor of Education – Higher Education Administration (Action Research Project and an Applied Internship)
• Cornerstone University : Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development (Organizational Leadership and Development Project)
• East Tennessee State University : Doctor of Education in Global Sport Leadership (Doctoral Capstone Project)
• Kent State University : Online Ed.D. in Interprofessional Leadership (Comprehensive Paper or Capstone Project)
• Liberty University : Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction (Capstone Project)
• Liberty University : Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Capstone Project)
• Marymount University : Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation (Doctoral Project/Final Research Paper)
• Morehead State University : Doctor of Education with Specializations in Adult and Higher Education Leadership, P-12 Administrative Leadership, and Educational Technology Leadership (Doctoral Capstone Project)
• National Louis University : Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership (Doctoral Capstone)
• National University : Doctor of Education in Organizational Innovation (Culminating Project)
• Nebraska Methodist College : Doctor of Education in Education and Leadership in Healthcare (Capstone Project)
• New York University : Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation (Capstone Project)
• Rockhurst University : Online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership (Capstone Project)
• The University of Louisiana at Monroe : Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Capstone Project or Three Publishable Research Articles)
• The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill : Doctor of Education in Organizational Learning and Leadership (Three Semester Capstone Courses and Project)
• The University of Southern Mississippi : Doctor of Education in P-12 Educational Administration (Four-chapter Capstone Project)
• The University of Southern Mississippi : Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration (Field-based Capstone Project)
• University of Miami : Doctor of Education in Applied Learning Sciences (Group Project and Individual Paper)
• University of Virginia : Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Capstone Project)
• Vanderbilt University : Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations (Group Capstone Project)
• Virginia Commonwealth University : Ed.D. in Leadership (Collaborative Group Study Capstone)
• West Texas A&M University : Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Two Publication-worthy Research Articles)
• Wilmington University : Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership (Applied Inquiry Project)

When researching potential programs, students should decide which type of capstone experience best fits their academic and professional goals. Ultimately, it is important to choose a degree that both aligns with one’s particular learning style and provides them with the type of training needed to advance in their field of interest. To learn more about any of the Ed.D. programs listed above, as well as their specific capstone requirements, students should visit the school’s website or contact an admissions representative.

Online EdD Program FAQs

• Are there any fully online EdD programs?
• FAQ: Are there any online EdD programs in kinesiology?
• FAQ: Are there any online EdD programs in TESOL and English Language Learning?
• Are there any online EdD programs that can be completed in 2 years?
• Are there any online EdD programs that do not require a master’s degree for admission?
• Are there any online EdD programs that do not require the GRE for admission?
• Are there any online EdS to EdD degree programs?
• Are there any schools that offer faith-based EdD programs online?
• Are there online EdD programs with an ABD option?
• How long does it take to complete an online EdD program?
• What is an embedded dissertation in EdD programs?

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Uog doctoral program set to launch in fall 2024.

The University of Guam announces that it has received approval from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)   to begin offering its first ever online doctoral program — a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Instructional and Academic Leadership.

The new EdD program emphasizes development of the “scholar-practitioner” who will integrate their professional experiences with research and theory to improve educational practices within their cultural contexts and to influence change in their educational and organizational settings.

“UOG was founded as a teaching college in 1952 and has since developed tremendous capacity for teachers, counselors, and school administrators for our island and region,” said Anita Borja Enriquez, UOG President. "This new doctoral program is our commitment to advancing education, elevating the focus on research agendas relevant to our region, and addressing improvement to instructional areas and overall educational leadership."

School of Education Dean Alicia Aguon noted that the new doctorate responds to the needs of educators and school systems across the region.

“Our survey had nearly a thousand respondents including alumni, education professionals, and stakeholders throughout Micronesia, and overwhelmingly, there was a stated need for a program geared toward instructional and academic leadership,” said Aguon. “This doctoral program is groundbreaking as it has been developed with a cultural competency unique to our region.”

The School of Education will begin accepting applications to the doctoral program this summer with its first courses starting this October. UOG will release more details in the coming weeks about information sessions and the application timeline.

“This isn’t just a milestone for UOG, it’s a milestone for education across the region,” said Enriquez “I am thrilled to see the meaningful, diverse conversational and collaborative synergies unfold from our inaugural cohort.”

Overview of the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Instructional and Academic Leadership

• The EdD program is an online program with 20 required courses and a total of 60 credit hours.
• The dissertation is built in as coursework in the program of study.
• The program is expected to take four years to complete without pausing. 
• The UOG Board of Regents approved the program in June 2023 and the WASC Senior College and University Commission approved the program in March 2024.
• Up to 25 students are projected for the program’s inaugural cohort.
• The program will launch in Fanuchånan (Fall) 2024.
• To express interest or for more information, email  [email protected] .

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The University of Guam is a U.S. Land Grant and Sea Grant Institution accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. UOG is an equal opportunity provider and employer committed to diversity, equity and inclusion through island wisdom values of inadahi yan inagofli'e: respect, compassion, and community.

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30 Best universities for Mechanical Engineering in Moscow, Russia

Updated: February 29, 2024

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• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Moscow ranked based on their research performance in Mechanical Engineering. A graph of 269K citations received by 45.8K academic papers made by 30 universities in Moscow was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Moscow State University

For Mechanical Engineering

2. Bauman Moscow State Technical University

3. National Research University Higher School of Economics

4. Moscow Aviation Institute

5. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

6. National Research Nuclear University MEPI

7. National University of Science and Technology "MISIS"

8. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology

9. Moscow State Technological University "Stankin"

10. RUDN University

11. Moscow Polytech

12. Moscow State University of Railway Engineering

13. Finance Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation

14. Moscow Medical Academy

15. Russian State University of Oil and Gas

16. mendeleev university of chemical technology of russia.

17. Russian National Research Medical University

18. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

19. National Research University of Electronic Technology

20. Moscow State Pedagogical University

21. Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

22. State University of Management

23. Moscow State Institute of International Relations

24. Russian State Geological Prospecting University

25. russian state agricultural university.

26. New Economic School

27. Moscow State Technical University of Civil Aviation

28. Russian State University for the Humanities

29. Russian State Social University

30. Moscow State Linguistic University

Universities for Mechanical Engineering near Moscow

Engineering subfields in moscow.

• Victor Mukhin

Victor M. Mukhin was born in 1946 in the town of Orsk, Russia. In 1970 he graduated the Technological Institute in Leningrad. Victor M. Mukhin was directed to work to the scientific-industrial organization "Neorganika" (Elektrostal, Moscow region) where he is working during 47 years, at present as the head of the laboratory of carbon sorbents.     Victor M. Mukhin defended a Ph. D. thesis and a doctoral thesis at the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia (in 1979 and 1997 accordingly). Professor of Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia. Scientific interests: production, investigation and application of active carbons, technological and ecological carbon-adsorptive processes, environmental protection, production of ecologically clean food.   

Title : Active carbons as nanoporous materials for solving of environmental problems

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12 Best Online DBA No Dissertation Programs [2024 Guide]

We’ve identified 15 accredited Online DBA No Dissertation Programs for 2024. Want to get a Doctorate in Business without a dissertation? Here’s how!

If you truly want to set yourself apart in the business world, taking your education to the next level with a Doctorate in Business Administration can do just that.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Earning your DBA will not only enhance your credentials but can also help ensure that you’re at the forefront of modern business leadership. And now, it’s possible to get enrolled in online doctoral programs without a dissertation .

Universities Offering No Dissertation Online Doctorate of Business Administration Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format. In addition, the universities included below offer Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programs that do not require a dissertation.

1. Bellevue University

Bellevue is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. California Southern University

CalSouthern is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

3. Capella University

• Online DBA – General Management
• Online DBA – Organizational Leadership and Development
• Online DBA – Strategy and Innovation

Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

4. Franklin University

Franklin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Indiana Wesleyan University

• DBA – Accounting
• DBA – Healthcare Administration
• DBA – Management

IWU is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

6. Liberty University

• DBA – Finance
• DBA – Healthcare Management
• DBA – Human Resources
• DBA – Information Systems
• DBA – International Business
• DBA – Leadership
• DBA – Marketing
• DBA – Non-Profit Leadership and Management
• DBA – Project Management
• DBA – Strategic Management
• DBA – Strategic Media and Digital Content
• DBA – Supply Chain Management and Logistics

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

7. Thomas Edison State University

• DBA – General Management
• DBA – Human Resource Management
• DBA – Organizational Leadership

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

8. Trevecca Nazarene University

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

9. Trident University

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

10. University of the Incarnate Word

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

11. Walden University

• DBA in Accounting
• DBA in Energy Management
• DBA in Entrepreneurship
• DBA in Finance
• DBA in Global Supply Chain Management
• DBA in Healthcare Management
• DBA in Homeland Security
• DBA in Human Resource Management
• DBA in Information Systems Management
• DBA in International Business
• DBA in Leadership
• DBA in Marketing
• DBA in Project Management
• DBA in Social Impact Management
• DBA in Technology Entrepreneurship
• DBA – Self-Designed

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

12. Wilmington University

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

Online DBA No Dissertation Programs

Select the doctoral field that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

Entrepreneurship

General business, healthcare management, homeland security, human resource management, information systems management, international business, project management, supply chain management.

With a Doctor of Business Administration, you can increase your potential responsibility, respectability, and annual earnings.

To help businesses manage their money, consider a specialization in Accounting. An accounting concentration aims to prepare doctoral students for careers as Certified Public Accountants, chief financial officers, budget analysts, financial managers and auditors.

Classes cover various disciplines in the accounting field, such as managerial accounting, cost allocation and data analysis.

Challenge yourself to become a more innovative leader through a DBA specialization in Entrepreneurship.

You can put this degree into practice as a trailblazer in a startup, or you can apply the principles in an established business setting. Your classes may cover ways to encourage creativity and new ideas, and you can talk about how to market successfully in today’s business world.

Your studies should also include information on how to go about financing business endeavors and providing wise financial leadership.

Professionals with a concentration in Finance may be well-suited for executive positions in corporations, banks or nonprofit organizations. For example, with this degree, you might choose to pursue a career in investment banking or hedge fund management.

In preparation, your coursework will cover important topics in the field of finances, such as asset pricing, credit risks, business leadership, and microeconomics.

You will probably discuss both domestic financial matters and those that relate to conducting business in an international setting.

Do you know that you want to earn an advanced business degree , but you’re not interested in settling on one specific specialty? Pursuing a generalist DBA can allow you to study many aspects of this field.

You may be able to select electives from multiple specializations in order to design a course of study that addresses your particular areas of interest.

Your coursework may cover corporate leadership, change navigation, and sustainable marketing.

From insurance companies to hospital systems, many healthcare organizations require experienced business professionals. With a specialization in Healthcare Management, you could also pursue work in the pharmaceutical industry, the nonprofit sector or the government.

Typical studies in this degree discuss how healthcare is delivered and factors that can disrupt that process.

Healthcare management students also need to study ethics, pricing factors, legal regulations and access to care.

The safety and security of people and infrastructure are vitally important. You can play a role in protecting these critical assets when you obtain a DBA with a concentration in Homeland Security.

Some experts in this area work for government agencies, but others play leadership roles in the private sector.

You and your classmates can explore ways that security issues have changed over time and how they affect modern business practices.

The success of a business depends on its people. If you have a passion for ensuring that organizations are equipped with the best talent, then a specialization in Human Resource Management could be right for you.

In this program, you can study planning for future needs, managing costs, outsourcing tasks and abiding by contracts.

After graduation, you may head up a human resources team, serve as a corporate executive or become a recruiter.

To blend your passions for technology and business, choose a concentration in Information Systems Management for your DBA.

Not only can you learn ways to make the most of technology in your organization with this degree, but you can also explore ways to be innovative and forward-thinking with tech.

This degree program can help prepare you to run networks, maintain databases or perform research so you can help your company gain an edge over the competition.

In many ways, global markets are becoming more connected, and businesses are becoming more international. A specialization in International Business can help you operate in markets around the world.

You can study business law in different countries and the roles of various global financial institutions.

This program can prepare you for a leadership position in a business with worldwide offices, or you can use your training to become a consultant for various companies.

Nearly every top position in the business world requires strong leadership skills. You can gain an advantage in this area by earning a DBA with a Leadership specialization.

A well-rounded degree program can help you learn how to lead your organization through change, work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and apply principles of human motivation.

Your coursework may also address topics of ethics, professional responsibility and environmental sustainability.

Businesses rely on marketing professionals to build awareness of their brand, analyze trends and create a positive image of their company. With a Marketing concentration, you can explore topics like these in-depth. Your classes may help you learn more about performing marketing research and understanding how consumers make decisions.

You can also explore different marketing channels, including digital media and business-to-business (B2B) marketing.

Career options may include advertising executive, media director, or research lead.

When an organization has an objective to accomplish, a project management professional may be the person in charge of overseeing the process from beginning to end.

A concentration in Project Management can help equip you with the skills necessary for leading major projects, navigating obstacles and guiding organizations through times of change.

In addition to becoming a project manager, you could work as a third-party consultant.

There are many steps involved in transforming raw materials into consumer-ready goods. Even after the manufacturing process is complete, there’s the additional task of getting items onto store shelves and into consumers’ hands.

You can work toward becoming an expert in overseeing this process from beginning to end by earning an online DBA with a specialization in Supply Chain Management.

Common course topics in this specialization include international operations, logistics management and quality assurance.

Careers & Salaries

A doctoral degree can give you the necessary credentials to help you land a top-paying job . Salaries vary depending on position and geographic region, but top executives make an average of $107,680 per year. Financial managers may earn $134,180 annually, and that field is growing at a rate of about 15 percent (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

• Because analysts work in many areas of the business world, you could choose a specialty like budgeting, operations or data.

Computer Information Systems Manager:

• In this managerial role, you can take charge of a company’s computers and networks as well as the ways that data is handled.

Consultant:

• Third-party consultants help organizations or employees improve their operations by suggesting ways to save money or streamline processes.

Entrepreneur:

• Although there is financial risk involved in launching startups, entrepreneurs often find the experience thrilling.

Financial Manager:

• You can oversee an organization’s financial matters, such as tracking spending and making projections, in this management position.

Human Resources Manager:

• HR directors deal with personnel issues. They may coordinate benefits, resolve disputes, maintain policies and acquire talent.

Marketing Manager:

• As a marketing professional, you might be in charge of advertising, brand recognition or consumer research.

Operations Manager/Top Executive:

• In this role, you could be responsible for providing leadership and direction as well as overseeing daily operations.
• With a position in academia, you can teach business principles to undergraduate or graduate students.

Accreditation for Online Doctorate in Business Administration Programs

Every reputable online college bears regional accreditation. This is an institution-wide distinction for schools that do a good job of educating students.

Among others, regional accreditors include:

• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Many business schools also seek accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) . This accreditation is available only for programs related to business or accounting. Although there may be good programs without AACSB accreditation, this industry-specific certification serves as a reassuring sign that your DBA program meets or exceeds industry standards.

Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization can be an excellent way to further your knowledge and network with other business professionals. Members often have access to newsletters, job postings, conferences, discounts and online training materials.

• American Management Association
• American Society of Association Executives
• National Association for Female Executives
• National Management Association

Financial Aid

Many online doctoral students rely on financial aid to fund their studies. The first step to qualifying for assistance is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your financial aid package may consist of grants, loans, scholarships, work-study or fellowships from government, university or private sources.

Can You Get a Doctoral Degree in Business Online?

Online DBA programs are an excellent option for many students, and, often, they require no on-campus residency requirements. For this reason, online doctorate studies are often a great choice for busy professionals. Accredited online programs are just as rigorous and comprehensive as their traditional counterparts.

 What’s the Difference Between a Ph.D. and a DBA?

Ph.D. in Business programs can prepare you to conduct original research. People with this degree often teach at universities.

DBAs are professional doctorates in which you apply existing knowledge to real-world problems. Those with DBAs often work in corporations or other business settings.

What’s a Dissertation Really Worth?

A dissertation for a doctorate is often used as an evaluation tool at the conclusion of the program. Its purpose is to demonstrate that you have acquired sufficient skills and knowledge in your field. Most doctorates have a dissertation component, but others do not require a dissertation and rely on projects or alternative evaluation methods.

Can I Work While I Pursue My Doctorate in Business Administration Degree?

Yes, many online DBA students are able to balance school and work. Online universities often design their programs with working professionals in mind. They offer accelerated schedules and flexible formats that can help you fit school into your busy life.

What Are the Advantages to Earning My Doctorate Online?

If you earn your doctorate degree online , you can take classes from a reputable, accredited school without having to move across the country or quit your job. You can study from wherever you are, and you can take classes and complete coursework whenever it fits into your schedule.

How Long Does it Take to Get an Online Doctorate in Business Administration?

The length of your doctorate in business administration program will depend whether you enroll full-time or part-time and how long it takes you to complete your dissertation or another final project. On average, most students spend three to four years working toward DBA completion.

Start Earning Your DBA and Don’t Worry about Writing a Dissertation!

While a dissertation can certainly be useful for proving your expertise, it isn’t necessary for all doctoral programs. You can become an expert in your field and continue working with your new credential faster when you don’t have to write a dissertation.

Look into the universities above to see which programs provide a curriculum that matches your interests, and don’t forget to apply for financial aid at the same time as you’re applying to your doctoral programs. We suggest applying to 3-5 doctoral programs to help ensure acceptance.