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While both degrees are at the doctoral level, the focus of each is unique. The main difference between a PhD and EdD is that a PhD is designed for graduates who are seeking careers in education or research-based roles , while an EdD is designed for candidates who want to pursue leadership positions with a real-world focus 1 .
For example, an EdD career path would be more aligned with becoming a university dean or director of research, while those pursuing a PhD would likely choose a career as a college professor or research scholar 2 .
The average program lengths also differ. The average time to complete a PhD in education is 4–7 years, whereas an EdD can take 3–5 years to complete. However, the number of years it will take for you to complete either program will depend on if you’re pursuing full-time or part-time schooling.
Below we’ll review each type of degree in depth, including their education requirements, career options, program costs and job outlook.
A PhD in Education is a Doctor of Philosophy degree designed for candidates pursuing a career in research and academia. Most PhD graduates work in a university as a professor, researcher or both. The PhD curriculum is typically more theory-based compared to an EdD degree 2 .
PhD candidates aim to become thought leaders in the field of education—conducting and publishing research on advanced theoretical topics within their specialization, as well as passing on their knowledge to the next generation of students. PhD graduates put an emphasis on research and devote their career to advancing the body of knowledge available within their field.
Earning a PhD in Education is a time-intensive process, but it’s also the highest academic degree within the field. On average, it takes 4–7 years to complete a PhD 3 .
To obtain a PhD, candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and complete the GRE or an equivalent entrance exam. Depending on the field of study, candidates will then complete either a master’s degree or proceed directly to PhD coursework. During the program, candidates will write a dissertation and defend it before receiving their PhD.
Most PhD coursework is theoretical, and the degree is a popular choice for those who aspire to become tenured at a university. The most common career options for PhD candidates include:
PhD candidates typically pursue careers in academia, focusing on education or performing research in their field of study. For postsecondary educators and researchers, the projected job growth is 12% between 2021 and 2031 4 . This is due to the expected rise in enrollment at postsecondary institutions such as colleges and universities.
A Doctor of Education (EdD) is a practice-based professional degree that focuses on research applications and leadership roles. The first EdD degree was granted by Harvard University in 1921. The EdD degree was created to develop seasoned educators to serve as faculty at the university level. EdD candidates are solution-focused, aiming to identify and strategize ways to improve real-world problems 8 .
Along with core coursework, many EdD programs offer opportunities to specialize in areas such as healthcare education, teaching and learning and executive leadership. While specializations are optional when earning an EdD, they allow you to gain deeper knowledge and expertise in areas aligned with specific career goals.
To apply for an EdD program, candidates must hold a master’s degree and meet other requirements specific to each program applied to. Once the candidate is accepted into a program, earning an EdD typically requires 3–5 years of study.
EdD programs often attract students who are simultaneously working professionally in the field. For example, the Doctor of Education program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) has a flexible online curriculum, allowing students to continue working while completing their degree at a pace that fits their lifestyle.
The EdD program culminates in a dissertation (or dissertation in practice) that allows EdD candidates to tackle real-world problems or contribute original research in their field of study.
An EdD is a valuable degree in any number of fields, such as higher education, healthcare, government and nonprofit organizations. Some common EdD career paths include:
An EdD is a degree for experienced educators who want to further their knowledge to improve the education system in its entirety. Although most EdD graduates hold jobs in the education sector , other opportunities include leadership roles in business, government and nonprofit organizations 12 .
Postsecondary education administrators have a projected growth of 7% from 2021 to 2031, which is as fast as the national average for all occupations 10 .
Here are some important factors to consider when determining whether an EdD or a PhD is right for you.
First, think about your career goals. If you’re interested in educating future students and publishing theory-based research, you might consider pursuing a PhD in Education. If you are more interested in applying research to real-world foundational and institutional issues, an EdD may be a better choice.
Consider what your day-to-day work would consist of as a graduate of each degree program. With a PhD, you would likely teach classes and work with graduate students to perform research. An EdD degree may lead to a career more focused on creating educational policy and developing leadership in educational institutions.
Completing a degree at the doctoral level is rigorous regardless of whether you choose an EdD or PhD. In PhD programs, coursework typically centers on conducting qualitative and quantitative research culminating in a dissertation. By contrast, EdD coursework focuses on leadership and education, treating research as a component rather than the main focus of the degree.
If you’re already working as an educator or aren’t able to commute, online programs give you the flexibility to complete an EdD or PhD at home and at your own pace.
Programs such as USAHS’ Doctor of Education are delivered almost completely online, with optional on-campus immersions where you can engage in discussions, presentations and Q&A sessions face-to-face with professors, guest speakers and fellow students.
If you want to specialize within your degree, do some research to determine which EdD or PhD programs have options to concentrate on the area you’re interested in. While concentrations differ at each university, EdD and PhD programs have certain staples. PhD concentrations include areas such as educational psychology and special education, while popular EdD concentrations include educational leadership and teaching.
Both an EdD and PhD in Education offer excellent career options. Regardless of the decision you make, it’s essential to choose the career path that is right for you and best aligns with your career goals.
Interested in pursuing higher education in health sciences? USAHS offers an EdD degree that allows you to specialize in healthcare education, like Nurse Educator, Teaching and Learning, Athletic Training and Executive Leadership. It’s an online program that also offers optional immersions.
Contact an enrollment advisor when you’re ready to apply to a one-of-a-kind program.
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) offers an online EdD program designed for working clinicians and healthcare educators, with optional on-campus immersions. Specializations include Nurse Educator, Athletic Training, Teaching and Learning, and Executive Leadership. Complete coursework when and where you want and earn your advanced degree while keeping your work and life in balance.
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EdD or PhD? This is one of the first decisions aspiring education leaders face when exploring options for advanced degrees. The need for leaders in the field has never been greater. Integrating new educational methods and technology, addressing diversity and other social issues, and managing growing requirements for remote learning—these are just a few of the issues currently challenging educators. Taking a step toward earning an EdD or a PhD requires that prospective students first explore the differences between them to determine which track best serves their interests and aspirations.
Both degrees prepare graduates for rewarding careers and leadership roles in the education field , but they vary significantly in terms of study focus and typical career paths. Future education leaders wondering why to get an EdD or a PhD should understand the differences between the two degrees before they choose to pursue one.
An EdD is an advanced degree in the education field that prepares graduates to succeed in leadership roles in higher education. EdD curricula incorporate heavy coursework in education policy, research methods, current social and political issues impacting students and teachers, developing teams and procedures, collaborating with internal and external partners, and managing and planning budgets.
EdD programs provide a solid foundation in modern education system operations, as well as extensive tools to create strategies and implement solutions to help schools and educational organizations succeed. Someone who has an EdD can teach or serve as an educator, but the degree program is more focused on helping graduates become leaders of educational organizations.
A PhD is an advanced degree that individuals and professionals can typically earn after attaining a master’s degree. A PhD can be attained in several academic subjects, including education, and often prepares students for careers in more research-oriented positions, as well as university and college instructor roles. The curriculum for a PhD in education can vary by school, but it often includes coursework in educational research and evaluation, teaching methods, and a larger dissertation on topics or subjects in the education field.
In broad terms, EdD programs help graduates gain a deep understanding of education as a field and profession, developing leadership expertise for various educational settings. The PhD track is more research oriented, helping graduates prepare for both the classroom and research aspects of teaching at a postsecondary institution. A closer look at career paths, salary projections, and growth outlooks can help differentiate the programs further.
When considering why to get an EdD or a PhD, it’s important to look at what happens after graduation. EdD and PhD programs’ different areas of focus mean each program best prepares graduates for different career options. The most common path for PhD recipients is to go right back into postsecondary education, with the hope of becoming tenured professors at a college or university. Gaining an EdD opens a variety of doors in the education sector.
EdD graduates will have some research background, for example, in examining the implementation of a new curriculum and student response. EdD graduates also benefit from classes focused on leadership and strategic planning, which provide a more business-oriented viewpoint of education and illustrate how policies can impact education at all levels.
Educators who earn an EdD can choose to pursue any of a variety of paths throughout education. Most commonly, they go into elementary, secondary, or postsecondary administration, serving in such roles as college dean or school district superintendent. EdD graduates from a school such as American University can also become college professors or run education-based nonprofit organizations.
PhD programs place greater emphasis on research, and graduates commonly work in academia or pursue academic research. Experts in their specific area of focus, they may choose to continue their research with students or other professors.
A person who holds a PhD in education can serve as a professor at a university, a consultant, or a researcher in a government education agency or organization, as well as in a larger leadership role in school or university administration.
Many education leadership roles can be filled by professionals who have earned either an EdD or a PhD, so their respective earning potential is difficult to define precisely. Salaries largely depend upon experience and geographic location. Salary ranges for postsecondary educators, for example, vary widely depending on whether an educator is working at the associate or assistant level or has attained a full professorship.
According to Payscale, the median annual salary for professionals with a PhD in education is approximately $80,000. Payscale notes that assistant professors of postsecondary/higher education have a median annual salary of roughly $69,000.
Doctoral degree holders who attain advanced roles in academia earn higher salaries: Deans with the degree have a median salary of around $93,000 annually, according to Payscale.
The median annual salary for EdD degree holders is around $80,000 in June 2022, according to Payscale. Salaries for EdD professionals can vary significantly by role. For example, Payscale reports the median annual salary of associate professors working in postsecondary/higher education is around $71,000, while EdD professionals serving in an executive director role have a median salary of around $104,000 per year.
The bright career outlook for degree holders is another reason to get an EdD or PhD. Advanced leadership roles for education professionals generally have a positive growth outlook. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of jobs for postsecondary teachers will grow by 12 percent between 2020 and 2030, which is much faster than the average 8 percent growth the BLS projects for all professions. The BLS estimates that over the same period, postsecondary education administrator positions will grow by 8 percent, which is on par with the national job growth average projected by the BLS.
EdDs and PhDs are valuable to professionals seeking to become leaders in education. Both require significant commitments—a doctoral-level degree can take three years or more to complete. While there’s overlap between the coursework and career options for EdD and PhD programs, a review of the differences can help determine a good fit for prospective students.
The curricula for the degrees themselves prepare students for different career paths after they graduate. There are generally more options and specialties for PhD programs than there are for EdD programs. An EdD primarily prepares graduates to become leaders and strategists in the education field—for example, as superintendents, deans, provosts, and school district officials—while a PhD is more tailored to preparing graduates for instructional and research roles in education and higher education, for example, as professors and researchers.
This doesn’t mean that an EdD degree holder can’t serve as a professor or an instructor in a university environment or that a PhD in education degree holder can’t succeed as a superintendent or a dean. EdD programs just focus on the larger scope and strategy of an educational organization or institution, while PhD programs are more tightly focused on academic research.
EdD candidates learn about different educational and leadership styles and how education fits into the larger world. They explore policy at the local, state, national, and international levels. Ultimately they discover how to spearhead change throughout the educational system. EdD graduates can learn how to make strategic partnerships and forge meaningful relationships in the professional world.
PhD students focus much more on research methods and data collection. They typically explore a more narrowly focused dissertation than that of EdD students. PhD students often choose their specific area of research and then spend much of their time collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data so that they can draw informed conclusions. While EdD work looks at systemic progress and trends, PhD work typically examines education theory and methods, with the end goal of having them applied directly in the classroom.
Ultimately both degrees are associated with professionals who’ve earned leadership roles in education, and both degrees enable degree holders to make a positive impact on students’ lives and on educational communities.
One of the main reasons to get an EdD is that it can prepare graduates to take on leadership roles in different aspects of education. These are more commonly operational roles in academia, such as a higher education administrator. However, an EdD education can also lead to roles in a classroom setting, such as a professor.
The process of earning an EdD degree helps individuals gain expertise in concepts such as leadership, academic policy, and resource management. While these skills are often useful in administration, policy development and implication, and leadership contexts, an EdD can also give degree holders the foundational knowledge to conduct academic research.
No two EdD programs are alike. Exploring their differences can help prospective students determine the program that’s the right fit for them. EdD programs may offer varying specializations, for example, education policy and leadership or school administration. Programs can also differ in delivery options, such as online versus in-person coursework.
Individuals who opt to pursue their EdD through an online program can benefit in several ways. A significant advantage is the flexibility of an online program, as its structure makes it possible for students to build their studies and coursework around their existing schedule.
Another benefit of an online EdD program is that students who are concurrently working full-time can immediately apply what they’ve learned to their job. Additionally, the flexibility of an online program fosters discipline, such as good time management, which is essential for professional success.
As society continues to evolve, effective leadership will be needed to guide educational institutions toward a brighter future. Earning an EdD can prepare an individual to guide others confidently as an academic leader, either in the classroom or in an administrative role. Being fully able to lead this charge can make earning an EdD an immensely satisfying achievement.
American University’s online EdD in Education Policy and Leadership program offers students a flexible option to participate in an innovative EdD program from one of the nation’s leading universities. Because the program is online, professionals have the ability to pursue their educational leadership goals and connect with established thought leaders and decision makers, all while still being able to balance their other responsibilities.
Explore American University’s innovative program to learn more about how the EdD in Education Policy and Leadership program can help educators advance in their field and change lives.
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A doctoral degree is the highest level of academic achievement available in higher education. When choosing a doctoral degree in education, there are different paths to advance your career: the EdD vs. PhD. And deciding whether an EdD or a PhD is better suited for achieving your academic and professional goals can feel like a significant decision. However, with a little self-reflection and some thought about your future, the decision can be easier than you think.
An EdD is a doctorate in education that is primarily for experienced practitioners interested in using education research to solve problems of practice, assuming leadership positions, preparing the next generation of practitioners in their field, and designing and implementing programs to improve practice. A PhD is a doctorate in philosophy that is primarily designed to prepare researchers and higher education faculty.
Both degrees require extensive coursework, research, and writing. The required coursework may also be similar for both degree programs. However, there are some differences between them. For example, the two doctoral degrees have different expectations concerning dissertation study, expertise in research methods, and residency requirements.
Whether you wish to be an innovative educational leader or researcher/faculty member in academia, taking a closer look at the differences between the EdD and PhD degrees will help you to determine which doctorate is right for you. Here are seven helpful tips to help you get started:
1. Consider your career goals If you are interested in pursuing a doctorate, you should consider whether you prefer to focus on teaching, research or both. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a school administrator , college/university administrator , curriculum developer , or counselor in a leadership position, then you should consider pursuing an EdD.
If you’re interested in pursuing a teaching or research career in academia, you should consider a PhD degree. Many people with a PhD secure jobs as college/university professors, research scholars, counselor educators, policy researchers , and more.
2. Understand the commitment Many EdD programs have been designed to be completed part-time to accommodate the needs of working professionals. Some schools, including the Warner School, offer an "accelerated" EdD option that includes a field-based dissertation and can be completed in as little as three years of part-time study while holding a professional job in the same field. "Traditional" EdD programs may offer more flexibility but can take longer to complete.
A PhD program typically takes four to six years to complete.
3. Explore the day-to-day For both EdD and PhD degree programs, the best way to get a feel for the program is to speak to students already enrolled in your program of interest or a departmental chair. You can also take a class before enrolling in the program to learn if a doctoral degree is right for you.
4. Compare the EdD vs. PhD coursework While PhD and EdD students may take the same foundational research methods courses, PhD students usually take additional advanced research methods courses to develop expertise in using a rich array of traditional research methods. Additionally, PhD students are typically expected to focus on only a few specific areas early on to become experts in those areas. EdD students, on the other hand, are usually expected to develop a broad understanding of their own and related fields.
5. Compare EdD vs. PhD dissertation EdD dissertations may involve a broader array of choices, including case studies of specific innovations, action research studies to improve specific programs or practices, research- and data-based analysis to inform important decisions, or rigorous evaluations of existing programs.
On the other hand, PhD dissertations require independent research that will contribute new knowledge to the field. This may include PhD students engaging in research apprenticeships with faculty.
6. Look at allowable transferable credits There may be a different number of credits that you can transfer depending on your program of interest. At Warner, many EdD students already have a master’s degree, which allows them to transfer credits to achieve their EdD in as little as 54 credits. Similarly, up to 30 credits can be transferred for the PhD program, allowing students to complete their degree in as little as 60 credits.
7. Consider financial support Explore full and partial assistantships and merit-based scholarships to help make your doctoral experience more affordable. Research or teaching assistantships support your studies while gaining valuable career experience at the same time. Assistantships provide a combination of tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for providing services supporting your school’s mission.
Staying on top of application deadlines is important. Many PhD programs accept applicants one time a year, while EdD programs can offer multiple entry points. Equally important, familiarize yourself with the admissions requirements. The best way to do that is by contacting an admissions representative , who can guide you throughout your doctoral degree search.
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What’s the difference between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Doctor of Education (EdD)?
Both are advanced degrees that represent the high levels of graduate scholarship. The right degree for you depends on whether you are seeking a job as a researcher/professor or as a leader-practitioner.
Both are doctorate degrees that represent high levels of scholarship. The PhD degree is ideal for students who see themselves as researchers and scholars; the EdD degree is for students who are seeking leadership positions that blend practice with research.
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What is a ph.d. in education, ed.d. vs ph.d. in education: key differences.
An Ed.D. degree is a doctoral degree in education focused on educational leadership. The abbreviation stands for Educationis Doctor, and the degree indicates that the person holding it has advanced leadership knowledge in teaching, administration, and education research. According to the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate, the Ed.D. “prepares educators for the application of appropriate and specific practices, the generation of new knowledge, and for the stewardship of the profession.” (Source: https://www.cpedinitiative.org/page/framework)
Ed.D. degrees emphasize transformational leadership skills—that is, leadership that can change systems to better serve students and their communities, rather than leadership that merely manages efforts within the existing system. In the modern educational environment, where educators seek to provide an excellent education to students from an ever more diverse range of background and abilities, transformational leadership is in demand.
By completing an Ed.D. program, experienced educators can develop executive-level leadership skills, advanced education policy knowledge, pedagogical skills, and research capabilities to innovatively solve problems for the schools and students they serve.
Ed.D. degrees are aimed at current education professionals working directly in their organizations outside of academia. These professionals may include:
Essentially, Ed.D. programs are ideal for experienced education professionals who hold a master’s degree and who do not want to work mostly within academic education research. While Ed.D. programs can also teach advanced classroom teaching skills, the primary role of an Ed.D. degree vs. a Ph.D. is to empower the professionals who are shaping and leading today’s schools and colleges.
Ed.D. career options will vary depending on your previous work experience and your master’s degree field of study. However, the degree is designed to equip you for senior leadership roles.
What are the benefits of an Ed.D. program? Aside from expanded pay potential and the opportunity for more responsibility, there are several.
A Ph.D. in Education is a research-intensive academic degree focused on producing leaders who can nurture new educators, either within college classrooms or as leaders within educational institutions. Ph.D. programs in education emphasize the production of scholarship-- the research and analysis which describes for practitioners and policy makers what works in education, what doesn’t work, and why that is.
Typically, Ph.D. in Education degrees aim to produce researchers who can also teach at the university level, ensuring that new teachers get off to a strong start in their careers and that mid-career teachers gain the advanced skills they need to serve students even more effectively, whether as master teachers, administrators, or school counselors. Education Ph.D. graduates may also serve as administrators, whether at the K-12 level, in higher education, or in government departments and private companies which serve education.
While current teachers and administrators can make a good fit for Ph.D. in education programs, they should already have a demonstrated focus on research in their careers before applying. Other potential good fits for education Ph.D.s are academics from other fields who are interested in investigating specific problems within the field of education.
These may include:
There is some overlap between the careers you can pursue with an Ed.D. and the careers you can pursue with a Ph.D. in Education. Your ability to pursue administrative roles will vary depending on your previous experience managing others within an education setting. Other roles may include:
With its emphasis on research and teaching, the Ph.D. in Education demands full-time commitment, can take longer to complete than an Ed.D. and can be difficult to complete while continuing to work. However, it has its own benefits for those who truly want to follow a scholarly career path.
The two doctoral degrees in education overlap in many ways, but also feature key differences in terms of their intended student prospects, aims, goals, and formats.
When it comes to deciding on a Ph.D. vs. Ed.D., consider where you’ve come from and where you want to go. If you are an established classroom teacher or administrator and want advanced skills to continue solving complex problems as a leader in that area, choose an Ed.D. If you have a more academic background and want to investigate major issues around education through research or want to contribute to the profession by training new teachers in colleges, choose the Ph.D.
Related to the differing career path goals of a Ph.D. vs. Ed.D., the skills emphasized in each degree do vary. Ed.D. students will focus primarily on hands-on, transformational leadership skills within education settings at any level. Ph.D. students will cover many courses in research methodologies, spend more time producing a dissertation and other scholarly publications, and focus on teaching and mentoring college students.
Both Ed.D. and Ph.D. programs teach advanced research skills, including statistics, data analysis, and qualitative and quantitative methodologies such as surveys and other investigation tools. However, the research aims in each degree differ.
Ed.D. programs teach research skills to help students employ those processes to solve very specific problems through the application of evidence to practical solutions.
Ph.D. programs teach more open-ended academic inquiry skills, designed to contribute to the wider body of scholarship which informs education practice and policy.
The final difference between Ed.D. programs vs. Ph.D. programs is the way the formats are commonly structured by colleges and universities. Because of its more practical, hands-on focus, the Ed.D. is usually a credit-based program that can be delivered via online study as well as on-campus study (or with some combination of the two). In addition, Ed.D. programs are often designed to accommodate working education professionals, whether they are teachers, curriculum designers, or administrators.
Finally, Ed.D. degree programs are typically shorter than other doctoral degrees in education, with programs lasting anywhere from two to four years in length. Ph.D. in Education programs are more likely to be full-time residential programs which require students to leave full-time jobs to pursue. While some Ph.D. programs focused on educational leadership may be structured for people who need to keep working, they are less common in other specialization areas. Ph.D. degrees are also competency-based, meaning whether you earn the degree or not depends on the defense of your dissertation. Because of this requirement, they are more likely to take in the region of 5-7 years to finish.
In summary, the chief difference between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D. is about the long-term career goals of the student. Which one is right for you will depend on where you’ve come from in your career to this point and where you want to go. Dedicated to solving problems in education through hands-on, transformational leadership? An Ed.D. program is likely to be the best bet for you. Passionate about scholarly research and policy development within academic settings? You may be ideal for a Ph.D. program. We hope this guide has helped you understand the differences between an Ed.D. in Education Leadership and a Ph.D. program in education with more clarity. Good luck with your career in education, no matter which degree you choose!
Ready to help transform schools, colleges, and universities through advanced leadership? Contact Gwynedd Mercy University at 844-707-9064 to learn more about our Accelerated Online Ed.D. in Executive Educational Leadership today!
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Debating between an Ed.D. and Ph.D. in Education? Our guide can help you make a sensible decision! Quickly compare Ed.D. and Ph.D. in Education benefits. Hear what experts and graduates think. Learn more about degree requirements & coursework. And get answers to practical questions about choosing a doctorate in education.
Why choose a doctor of education (ed.d.).
An Ed.D. is formally known as a “Doctor of Education” program. An Ed.D. is a terminal degree focused on real-world practice and leadership , making it appealing to working professionals such as teachers, adjunct professors, and education administrators.
Ed.D. students often have 3+ years of educational leadership experience under their belts before they even start a doctoral program in education. That means Ed.D. graduates often qualify for mid- and high-level positions such as:
In fact, many folks choose to make the leap to an Ed.D. after they’ve been advised to by their employers. It’s a practical qualification that often leads to promotions and/or a salary boost in districts, schools, or universities. For a complete rundown of post-graduation opportunities, see our Ed.D. Career & Salary Guide .
A Ph.D. is formally known as a “Doctor of Philosophy” program. A Ph.D. in Education is a terminal degree focused on developing original academic research in the field of education . It’s the degree of choice for university professors, researchers, academics, and high-level policy makers.
Ph.D. in Education students are trained to be experts in research and university-level teaching. So it follows that jobs for graduates are focused in these two realms:
But keep an open mind on career paths. Ph.D. in Education graduates can also be found in educational leadership positions within PreK-20 settings (e.g. University President), government, consultancies, and non-profits. You don’t have to go into academia.
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) | Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) | |
Practice-Focused | Research-Focused | |
Professional Leadership & Applied Research | Original Education Research & Advanced Theory | |
Multiple Options | ||
, or | Traditional 5-Chapter Dissertation | |
Professional Educational Leadership Roles | Academic & High-Level Research Roles | |
Limited; Hybrid or In-Person the Norm | ||
Limited | Full Funding Often Available |
To learn more about the differences between Ed.D. and Ph.D. in Education programs, we spoke with Dr. Jill Perry, M.A., Ph.D., Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Perry serves as Executive Director of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) . She has 25+ years of experience in educational leadership and program development, professional doctorate preparation research, and classroom teaching. Dr. Perry is also a Fulbright Scholar and returned Peace Corps Volunteer.
Learn more about Dr. Perry’s work at the University of Pittsburgh and the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) . You can also watch the great video that CPED put together on the Ed.D. vs Ph.D. discussion.
Q: Where did the misconception of the Ph.D. being “better” than the Ed.D. come from?
The Ph.D. has been around for centuries. It’s been associated with developing expertise in a certain content area and pursuing an academic or research career that would generate more knowledge about that content through various forms of study. The U.S. Ph.D. is modeled after the German Ph.D., which is based on empirical research. When the Ed.D. was created at Harvard in 1920-21, it was developed as a degree for a burgeoning group of leaders in the Boston Public School System. The inventor of the degree, Henry Holmes, wanted to create a professional title and degree for men who would supervise several schools at a time (essentially the superintendency). He used the Ph.D. design but subtracted research courses (and eventually the language requirement) and allowed candidates to study practical issues in schools. Additionally, he recruited Ph.D. faculty to teach in the program. From there, the degree was adopted at institutions around the country and treated as a practitioner degree with fewer credits/courses than the research degree for the School of Education. You can read more about the issue in “ What History Reveals about the Education Doctorate .”
Q: Why is this notion misguided?
The Ph.D. is not better than the Ed.D. They are different degrees with different purposes. It’s similar to the distinction between a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and an MD—a Ph.D. student conducts research to generate new knowledge for the medical field, whereas the MD student is a practitioner who works directly with patients. They are taught different skills for different careers.
Q: How has the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) helped to strengthen the Ed.D.?
CPED is a consortium of over 115 Schools of Education. We have worked collaboratively at the faculty level to develop an understanding of what practitioners need to be able to transform practice with skills learned in Ed.D. programs. In doing so, we have created a Framework that guides members (and non-members) in developing Ed.D. programs that focus on preparing students to become scholarly practitioners, or those that blend practical wisdom with inquiry and research to improve local problems. We do not view the Ed.D. as “less than” a Ph.D. Rather, we view it as a professional degree that requires preparation in skills, knowledge, and dispositions that result in practitioners who can change, improve, and impact educational settings. Our framework is intentionally flexible so that members can adapt it to their local context and needs to design the strongest program they can for practitioners.
Q: There’s a lot of advice on the benefits of pursuing an Ed.D., but are there situations when you advise against pursuing it?
If you want to become a tenure track faculty member or a researcher in a company such as the RAND corporation, you wouldn’t want the Ed.D. While CPED emphasizes the strong role that research and inquiry have in Ed.D. programs, we stress that these skills are taught to be applied to practice for immediate change and improvement. Those who do research for publication need to learn a different research skill set—how to design studies that result in generalizable knowledge or development of theories. They need to learn how to publish their work in journals, how to advise students, and how to teach. The job description of a tenure-line faculty position is vastly different than the job of a superintendent of schools. Their training should also be different. We do see Ed.D. graduates in academia, however. There are those who were trained under the Ed.D. when it was a research degree at some institutions. These faculty are researchers. We also see retired practitioners who assume clinical faculty positions where they teach from their practice perspective and are not expected to do academic research.
Q: What does the future of the Ed.D. look like? How do you see it changing over the next five to ten years?
We have just celebrated the 100th year anniversary of the Ed.D. With those 100 years came a lot of confusion and misunderstanding about the degree. In the past 14 years, CPED has done much to shift the understanding and the design of Ed.D. programs towards a doctorate that is the highest form of preparation for educational practitioners who can transform practice. We see the future of the Ed.D. continuing to strengthen as a professional degree. In the next 5-10 years, we anticipate that more institutions will redesign their Ed.D. programs to fit the practitioner model. CPED will work collaboratively to shape the future through continuous improvement and assessment to meet the needs of educational practice.
Is pursuing an ed.d. worth it.
Yes, but only if you know what you’re going to use it for. No one should be earning an Ed.D. without speaking to their employer and alumni first. Most Ed.D. graduates on Reddit say that their experience was worth it. But that’s also because they were looking for a workplace-focused doctorate with a lot of practical applications.
You’ll also need to think about the worth of the program itself. Will you be encouraged by your Ed.D. professors to try new approaches? Will you enjoy the internships and the laboratories of practice? Will you be able to take advantage of the career resources? Will you be satisfied with a less research-intensive program than a Ph.D.? If not, don’t do it.
In the world of academia and science-based disciplines, doctoral graduates say the answer is simple—a Ph.D. is most valuable degree to hold. It shows employers that you have spent years working on research in your field. Even the most rigorous Ed.D. programs don’t contain 3-6 years of full-time study. When it comes to faculty positions and high-level research openings, a Ph.D. candidate is almost always going to trump an Ed.D. candidate.
But plenty of Reddit commentators point out that “value” is a loaded term. An Ed.D. may be incredibly valuable if you’re working on earning your principal or superintendent certification, applying for a pay rise within your district, or looking for an executive leadership degree that will transform your approach to educational administration. It’s horses for courses.
Reddit users point out that one of the reasons that the Ed.D. gets a bad rap is because mediocre universities use the degree as a “cash cow.” They pump out poorly planned online programs, lower their admissions standards, and ask students to pay big bucks for a doctorate. This has the unfortunate effect of devaluing Ed.D. programs offered by top-notch Colleges of Education.
If you are thinking of earning an Ed.D., be aware that you may run into this preconception in certain fields. The best way to combat the stigma is to choose a well-reviewed program that is designed to help you achieve your specific career goals. Then you won’t care what others say—because you’ll be enjoying the benefits of your new job.
Admissions requirements.
Master’s Degree (Ed.S. Graduates Often Eligible for Advanced Placement) | Master’s or Doctorate (Some Ph.D. Programs Will Accept Bachelor’s Degree Graduates) | |
Often Optional | Examples: | |
Often Optional or | Often Optional |
Ed.d. curriculum.
Coursework for the doctorate in education will depend on the concentration—the curriculum for an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership is going to be different to an Ed.D. in Counseling and Psychology . But all Ed.D. programs share the same general structure:
As you might expect, Ph.D. in Education programs tend to be heavy on research, theory, methodologies, and ethics. Colleges of Education want to provide you with all the advanced tools you need to complete your dissertation. You’ll be looking at:
In addition to passing courses, Ph.D. in Education students are often required to hit various degree benchmarks. These include:
Examples of ed.d. concentrations.
Doctor of Education programs are available in a dizzying area of concentrations—you’re sure to find a specialization that matches your career interests. For a detailed exploration, including Ph.D. vs. Ed.D. comparisons for each field, check out the following subject guides:
The Ph.D. in Education follows a similar pattern. Doctoral concentrations will be available in many of the same subjects, including Educational Leadership. But it’s worth doing a little digging. Colleges of Education often offer unique Ph.D. in Education specializations that play to their strengths. For example:
The most important element in the Ph.D. equation is going to be your faculty advisor/mentor—this is the person who will guide you through your research work and your dissertation. Once you have a concentration or two in mind, start looking into the background of professors. Collaboration is going to be key.
Ed.d. online availability.
Ed.D. programs are built for working professionals, so many universities offer online or low residency doctorates in education. Even if you are expected to come to campus, it will only be for brief residencies or degree benchmarks (e.g. dissertation defense).
For a comprehensive overview of your options, check out the Online Ed.D. Rankings & Nationwide Directory of Programs . You’ll be able to choose from a huge range of concentrations.
Ph.D. in Education programs have traditionally been offered on campus. In this way, Ph.D. students have immediate access to:
Online Ph.D. in Education programs do exist, but they tend to be offered by private online universities instead of brick & mortar institutions. These aren’t going to look very good on a résumé.
If you need to be at home, you could consider a low residency option from a regionally accredited university (e.g. Rowan, Lesley, etc.). COVID-19 has caused a shake-up in learning practices, so you may see more of these programs being offered in the future.
1. why do i want to earn an education doctorate.
Any doctoral program in education is going to require a significant investment of time & resources. So it’s important to ask yourself this basic question. Sometimes the answer is simple:
But we know that sometimes the answer is complicated. If you’re struggling with your decision, talk to everyone—recent graduates, professional mentors, LinkedIn contacts, colleagues—anyone who can give you seasoned advice.
Make a list of your 3-year, 5-year, and 10-year career goals. This will give you a sense of whether you’re heading in a professional direction (e.g. Ed.D.) or a research-focused direction (e.g. Ph.D.).
Once you have your list in hand, have a look at recent job postings for your ideal career. In reality, an Ed.D. or a Ph.D. is acceptable for a number of high-level educational leadership & teaching positions. Choose a doctoral program in education that suits you best.
The following factors are going to weigh heavily in your decision:
This question is particularly important when you’re considering the Ed.D. If you don’t need a doctorate in education to qualify for a job, you’ll have to decide whether you’re willing to fork out tens of thousands of dollars and spend 3 years of your life in study. For budget-friendly options, see our rankings of the Most Affordable Online Ed.D. Programs .
Even if you’re in a fully funded Ph.D. program, you still have to reckon with the long time commitment, the quality of faculty members, and the reputation of the university. Getting stuck in a terrible Ph.D. program can be extremely tough on a person’s mental health. Demand the very best in your education.
This is the best tip we can give you. The more people you talk to, the clearer the skies will become.
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Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.
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Are you passionate about being a part of the future of education? Well, in the world of education, two prestigious degrees stand out: the EdD and PhD in Education. Learn more about the EdD and PhD in Education degrees and the difference between the two below!
A Doctor of Education degree, known as an EdD, is a doctoral degree that is focused on professional practice in the field of education. An EdD is designed for students pursuing leadership roles in administration and policy within the education field. This degree emphasizes the practical application of knowledge in educational settings.
An EdD is designed to prepare individuals for leadership roles such as:
Also see: Top education scholarships
A PhD, or a “Doctor of Philosophy” in Education, is a doctoral degree that focuses on advanced research in the field of education. It is the highest academic degree that an individual can earn within the field of education.
A PhD in Education is ideal for students who want to conduct research. With a PhD in Education, a student will become an expert on a particular topic or range of topics within the field of education. Their focused research puts them in the position to make sound decisions on how practitioners should approach or implement education.
A PhD in education is designed to prepare individuals for leadership roles such as:
Read more: Top fully funded PhD programs
Length of program | Typically 3-5 years | Typically 4-7 years |
Focus areas | Prepare leaders in education with a focus on leadership, administration and policy | Research and scholarship in education with a docs on a wide range of educational topics |
Research emphasis | Applied research, practical applications | Original research, theoretical contributions |
Industries | Many industries | Mainly academia |
Potential careers | Leadership, administration, policy | Professor, researcher, policy analyst, consultant |
Less time than a PhD | Not as widely recognized as a PhD |
Average cost for an EdD degree is less | May be less challenging than a PhD |
Focuses on practical application | Less research-focused than a PhD |
Offers flexibility in terms of coursework | May not offer as much job security |
More widely recognized | Takes longer to complete than an EdD |
Offers opportunities for clinical experience | Can be more expensive |
Focuses on research | Time commitment can be demanding |
Can be tailored to your specific goals and interests | Not ideal for those interested in educational administration |
Time commitment.
EdD and PhD in Education programs are significant investments in time. Therefore, it is important to understand the amount of time each degree requires to determine which is better suited for your career goals. An EdD program will take around 3 to 5 years to complete, while a PhD in Education will typically require around 4 to 7 years to complete.
There are many different careers you can choose from with EdD and PhD degrees. However, the careers that are available with each degree differ slightly. EdD programs prepare students for administration roles within education. PhD in Education programs make students desirable candidates for a range of research-oriented positions. Therefore, it’s important to review what career options there are so you can choose the best course of action for your goals.
Careers with an EdD in Education
Careers with a PhD in Education
EdD and PhD programs both typically require a dissertation. However, the EdD program may allow you to complete a dissertation based on a real-world application while a PhD dissertation may be more theoretical. In addition, EdD coursework will typically be more application based while PhD coursework is more research oriented.
Review the course description for any degree programs you are interested in order to become familiar with the topics you will study in your respective program.
It’s no surprise that online schools provide a more flexible schedule for students. Therefore, if online school is something you desire, you are more likely to find online opportunities for an EdD program rather than a PhD program.
Read more: Top scholarships for online students
To help you choose between an EdD and a PhD in Education, it may be helpful to picture your daily life and routines in each of these programs. An EdD program focuses on the application of research, which means most of your time will be spent using your knowledge to solve challenges in the education field. In contrast, a PhD program is more research-heavy meaning that a majority of your time will be spent researching methodologies in education.
Now that you have a better understanding of what an EdD is, what a PhD in education is, and what the difference between them is, you are probably wondering what now? Regardless of which degree you want to pursue, earning your doctorate can pay off no matter what.
Therefore, truly evaluate your current situation, career goals, and time commitment to determine if the EdD or PhD path is the right one for you. Ultimately, it is your decision, and you should choose the option that most aligns with your personal goals.
Now that you have picked which direction you want to go in, research universities and colleges that offer your desired degree program! Be sure to research their values and coursework to ensure it is a good fit for you. Don’t forget, Scholarships360 is here for you to help you find the right scholarships to help you fund your graduate education !
Are there any online edd programs, which degree is better for students aspiring to become educational administrators, how long does it take to complete an edd degree compared to a phd in education, are there any prerequisites that differ between the two programs, scholarships360 recommended.
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If you want to elevate your career in education, an advanced degree can open the door to more job opportunities. Many schools offer graduate programs in education, but before you go down a rabbit hole of research, first decide if you want to get a PhD or EdD degree.
A PhD and EdD in education are both doctoral degrees. The one you choose will have a significant impact on your graduate school experience, and your career as well. (Already know what you want? Visit our Admission and Deadlines and Requirements pages for more information.)
For a quick overview of differences between the two degrees, view the infographic below or download it here .
Before we explore tips to guide your decision, let’s review important context for each degree.
What is a PhD in Education?
A PhD is a doctorate in philosophy. Historically, it was the first degree offered to students in the field of education and is perhaps more well-known than the EdD.
The PhD in Education is ideal for students who are excited by a career in research. Programs train you to interpret existing theory on a subject, identify opportunities for exploration, and advance theory through critical analysis. It is not necessarily a degree that prepares you for an administrative or leadership role.
With a PhD in Education, you will become an authority on a particular topic or range of topics, and make recommendations on how practitioners should approach or implement them. Examples of research topics might include teaching practices, the effect of learning environments on student outcomes, and inequity in education.
What is an EdD in Education?
An EdD is a doctorate in education, and prepares you for a career in educational leadership. Like the PhD degree, you will learn to interpret research. However, EdD programs train you to apply the research in real-world settings.
While pursuing your EdD degree, you will study critical theory and determine how you can implement it to drive change in K–12 classrooms, universities, community colleges and other organizations. You will also reflect on your role as a leader. Top EdD programs encourage you to analyze your relationship to your research topics and work environments. The goal is to ensure that your leadership is fair and equitable for all people.
PhD vs. EdD: What are the main differences?
The table below summarizes the key differences between a PhD and EdD in education:
PhD Degree | EdD Degree | |
---|---|---|
Career path | Education and research | Professional leadership |
Coursework | ||
Time commitment | (in some cases, tuition is covered by graduate assistantship) | |
Dissertation | Yes | Yes, or dissertation in practice |
Online modality | Offered by select schools | Offered by several schools |
Find your program
PhD vs. EdD: How to choose
To help you figure out which doctorate in education is right for you, check out these nine helpful tips:
1. Follow your passion
Rather than focusing on the title of the degree, think about what motivates you. Why did you get into education in the first place? Do you want to have a direct impact on classrooms or pursue big-picture change behind the scenes? You may assume that one degree is more prestigious than another, but it’s important to choose a path that will bring you personal satisfaction that is consistent with your career goals.
2. Picture your day-to-day
PhD and EdD programs are a significant time investment. If you’re struggling to decide because both degrees sound rewarding, try picturing what your daily life might look like in each program.
A PhD in Education is decidedly more research-heavy. A majority of your study will include—but is not limited to—investigating theory and research methodologies. By contrast, EdD programs include the application of your research. Much of your time will be spent using your knowledge to solve professional challenges.
3. Explore career options with a PhD in Education
Earning your PhD in education will make you a more desirable candidate for a range of research-oriented positions. Your ability to evaluate research and make recommendations will be a valuable skill to many organizations.
Many people with PhD in education degrees secure jobs as:
Want specific examples? For a list of positions held by recent graduates from USC Rossier’s PhD in Urban Education program (PhD), check out our Benefits and Career Paths page.
4. Explore career options with an EdD in Education
EdD programs prepare you for different kinds of senior positions. You will be eligible for leadership roles primarily in education administration, however your high-level skill-set will be desirable to certain nonprofits and businesses as well.
Position titles for professionals with an EdD degree may include:
5. Compare PhD vs. EdD coursework
Doctor in education programs are rigorous and challenging, and while both are rooted in research, their paths diverge. Coursework in PhD programs highlights qualitative and quantitative research methods, and gives you the tools needed to perform your own research. You will also work on your dissertation, and be required to take oral and written exams.
Additionally, PhD students typically have the chance to work one-on-one with a research faculty member on their research. As you narrow your search for a graduate school, remember to review faculty and consider opportunities for collaboration.
EdD courses in educational leadership train you to view common problems in education from multiple perspectives. Courses early in the program urge you to use research as a tool that can provide practical solutions that promote equity. As you progress, you will then take actionable steps to address a problem of practice.
6. Review PhD vs. EdD specializations at different schools
You want to choose a university that aligns with your personal interests. Start by reviewing schools’ mission statements. Do they seem principle-driven or focused on ushering you through the program? You also want to check out the concentrations offered by each program. Select a program that is going to let you explore issues and challenges that matter to you.
Concentrations vary by university. For example, some concentrations may include educational leadership in K–12 schools, educational psychology or higher education. Expect universities located in or near cities to offer concentrations exploring urban education settings as well.
7. Consider PhD and EdD online programs
If you’re a working professional and don’t want to commute to a physical campus while you earn a degree, an online doctor of education program may be right for you. Online programs cover the same information as their in-person counterparts, but offer a little more flexibility for students.
However, classes such as those included in USC Rossier’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership online program are held live, meaning you are required to attend the online class at a specific day and time.Note: It may be easier to find online options for EdD than PhD programs.
8. Research PhD vs. EdD dissertation requirements
A traditional part of a PhD in education is the dissertation. Dissertation requirements vary by program and school, but generally include thorough investigation of a topic from multiple angles, copious research, and an exam to defend your written work once it’s completed.
By contrast, some EdD programs require you to complete a dissertation in practice. Using research methods learned in the program, you will attempt to resolve a problem in education dealing with equity and access. You may also have the chance to work alongside a group of students and an advisor to tackle the problem. In addition to the different requirements of PhD and EdD dissertations, individual schools may want you to explore issues that fall within their philosophical focus.
9. Estimate your time commitment
Before committing to a doctorate in education program, make sure you understand how much time it will take. A PhD in Education typically requires four to six years to complete, while EdD programs take three years, and may be completed while you work.
Additionally, some PhD programs are full-time commitments. Because of the workload, you can’t work a full-time schedule. However, your tuition is covered by a graduate assistantship. A Master’s degree may also not be necessary for acceptance into a PhD program.
USC Rossier resources
If you’re still unsure about which doctorate in education is right for you, we’re happy to provide personalized guidance .
You can also use USC Rossier’s simple career survey tool.
Curious about the requirements for our doctoral programs ? Check out the list of program comparisons. As a school that has offered doctoral degrees for 100 years, USC Rossier is uniquely positioned to provide insight and expertise on doctoral programs in education
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If you’re interested in pursuing a doctoral degree in education, one of the first questions you’ll face is: Should I apply for a Doctor of Education (EdD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education?
The decision between these two culminating degrees can be career-defining as each serves a very different purpose despite being equivalent in level. In order to ensure you choose the path that best aligns with your future career goals, it’s important to take the time to first understand the differences in program curriculum and future career opportunities that relate to each degree.
Read on to learn about the defining qualities of an EdD and a PhD in Education, and determine which program is the right fit for you.
A Doctor of Education (EdD) is a professional degree designed for practitioners pursuing educational leadership roles. A PhD in education , on the other hand, is designed to prepare graduates for research and teaching roles.
“With a PhD, [students are] reviewing the research, seeing a gap in the literature, and generating new knowledge based on a theory or hypothesis,” Joseph McNabb , a professor of practice in Northeastern’s Graduate School of Education , explains. “Conversely, an EdD student starts with a problem of practice and [works to learn] the skills it will take to resolve that complex problem of practice.”
An EdD, or Doctor of Education , is a professional doctorate best suited for experienced educators and mid- to senior-level working professionals who want to lead and implement change within their organization.
EdD candidates work in a broad range of fields ranging from K-12 and higher education to nonprofits, government, healthcare, and the military. What each share is a desire to transform their everyday environment and apply the lessons learned through their doctorate to a complex, critical issue facing their workplace.
The EdD is practice-based. Students in an EdD program don’t want to just research their area of interest, but leverage that research in ways that could positively influence their community or organization’s decision-making process.
Learn More: 5 Tips for Choosing Your EdD Concentration
Those who pursue an EdD focus on qualitative, exploratory research. Students collect data and conduct individual interviews, observations, or focus groups to construct hypotheses and develop strategies that can help solve or clarify a specific problem of practice, such as how to support student veterans transitioning to civilian life or how to foster more female leaders in higher education—two dissertation topics recently explored through Northeastern’s EdD program .
While an EdD can be applied to a variety of industries—such as K-12, higher education, the nonprofit sector, or civic service—there are several job titles you’ll likely come across within your cohort of classmates. They include:
These are just a few of the many career opportunities available to EdD graduates.
Learn More: Top Careers with a Doctorate in Education
A PhD in Education is a terminal degree best suited for individuals who want to pursue a career in academia or research at the university level.
Students in a PhD program take a more theoretical, study-based approach to learning. In most cases, their goal is to master a specific subject or add their unique findings to a body of existing literature. PhD candidates conduct original research in the hopes of driving change in their field or inspiring others to make change based off their work.
A PhD is the degree most popular amongst those who aspire to become a professor or obtain a tenure position. Through these programs, students tend to focus on getting published in well-respected journals, presenting at national conferences, and learning how to teach future educators.
While some of the above roles can also be earned through a PhD program, the most common job titles for PhD-holders include:
Once you’ve explored the differences between an EdD and PhD in Education, the most relevant question to consider will be: What’s the next step I want to take in my career, and which degree can help me achieve my professional goals? The answer to this question will determine which degree you ultimately pursue.
Earning your doctorate can pay off no matter which path you choose. Professionals with a doctoral degree earn an average $3.65 million over their lifetime—nearly one million dollars more than master’s degree holders. Similarly, doctoral degree holders see an unemployment rate of only 1.5 percent compared to the national unemployment rate of 3.6 percent.
Regardless of which degree you ultimately pursue, there is enormous potential for you to advance your career in the field of education. Evaluating your needs and values will help you understand whether an EdD or PhD in Education is best suited to your personal and professional goals.
Scott W. O’Connor is a writer and SEO specialist for Northeastern University. He has been writing for both print and online publications for over 10 years and specializes in the higher education sector.
“With a PhD, [students are] reviewing the research, seeing a gap in the literature, and generating new knowledge based on a theory or hypothesis. Conversely, an EdD student starts with a problem of practice and [works to learn] the skills it will take to resolve that complex problem of practice.” Joseph McNabb Professor of practice in Northeastern’s Graduate School of Education
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Doctoral degrees are the pinnacle of achievement in higher education. They’re also particularly valuable if you want to become a leader in the education field. Whether you aspire to teach college, head a K-12 school system or become an organizational leader, you may be at a crossroads between choosing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D). or a Ph.D. in Education.
You’re probably wondering what the practical difference is between the Ed.D. and the Ph.D., as well as the career paths each prepares you for. We’re here to help answer those questions and more as we dive into the specifics of the Ed.D. vs. a Ph.D.
A Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) is a professional degree designed for practitioners who want to pursue roles as education or mission-driven leaders.
The Ed.D. degree originates over 100 years ago at Harvard University. Since its inception it has evolved into a multifaceted and nuanced program offered in varying forms at universities across the world. As this degree has grown, it is especially prevalent in online education.
According to labor market analytics firm EMSI, Ed.D. degrees earned through online programs grew 238% from 2012 to 2020.
As the popularity of the Ed.D. grows and its availability increases, many students are weighing the pros and cons of getting their Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. We’ve put together three lists to help you decipher the advantages, career paths and top considerations for potential Ed.D. students.
Leadership training. Ed.D. programs offer leadership and management training that is pivotal in creating thriving organizations and satisfied employees across industries.
Real-world application. Ed.D. degrees are focused on preparing professionals to solve real-world problems in education and other mission-driven organizations.
Flexible career options. An Ed.D. provides flexible career options, both in the field of education or as a leader in a mission-driven organization.
No universal standard across programs. Ed.D. curriculum is not standardized, meaning each Ed.D. program may be different in its focus. It’s important to thoroughly research each Ed.D. program to ensure the curriculum aligns with your goals.
Not ideal for academia. An Ed.D. degree may not be the right fit if you want to pursue a career in academia with a heavy research focus. Most tier one research universities seek out candidates with Ph.D. degrees who want to conduct and publish research on the university’s behalf.
J ust as rigorous as Ph.D. programs. Ed.D. programs are not easier than Ph.D. programs. If you’re considering an Ed.D. because you see it as a less intensive option than a Ph.D., that is a misconception. Be prepared for a rigorous academic program no matter which degree path you choose.
Ph.d.: the academic & research degree in education.
A Ph.D. in Education is a terminal degree that’s best suited for individuals who want a career in academia or research at the university level. Students in a Ph.D. program take a more theoretical approach to learning, which involves publishing original research to contribute to the field of education. A Ph.D. trains you to interpret existing knowledge, identify areas for exploration, and use critical analysis to move the discipline forward.
Let’s look at the advantages, career paths and considerations for pursuing a Ph.D. in Education so you can compare this degree option to the Ed.D. degree.
Stand out for academia and research positions. Gaining subject mastery and finely honed research skills can help you stand out for jobs at top tier research universities, research institutions or government agencies.
Advance education theory. Advance theory on a topic you’re passionate about while gaining professional credibility in that specialty. This may include advancing theory in areas such as cognitive learning theory, behaviorism learning theory, or connectivism learning theory, among others.
Contribute to research. Collaborate directly with faculty and researchers to contribute original research in the field. This could include addressing issues such as the gender gap in STEM programs, mandating school standards, or standardized testing as an indicator of future success.
Less flexible scheduling. Ph.D. programs may not accommodate part-time study and may require in-residence study and research. While some online programs are available, if you’re looking to compete for top jobs at research universities, a full-time Ph.D. program is likely your best option.
Longer duration to complete. Ph.D.s in Education usually require 90 credit hours to complete, compared to approximately 60 credit hours for an Ed.D. This means your degree will take longer to earn and will likely cost more than an Ed.D.
Less competitive wages. Ph.D. degrees most often lead to careers in academia, which often pay less than the variety of public, private and nonprofit sector jobs you can pursue with an Ed.D.
Choosing the right doctoral degree is key to your success as a future educator or organizational leader. If you want to pursue a degree that is ideal for working professionals while learning to apply research to real-world problems, an Ed.D. can take your career to the next level.
Franklin University offers an online Ed.D. program that can be completed in as few as 3 years. The no-fear dissertation process helps you define your dissertation topic and integrate it into your coursework, so you can finish faster. Franklin also offers three different focus areas in Organizational Leadership, PK-12 Leadership and Higher Education Leadership, so you can specialize in the career path you're most passionate about.
Learn more about Franklin’s Ed.D. program and how it can help you advance your career.
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In essence, the primary difference between a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is that an Ed.D. focuses on practical skills, while a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) focuses on theory and research.
Those pursuing an Ed.D. typically want to work in education leadership roles, so they perform hands-on work while pursuing their degrees. Ph.D. candidates usually hope to work in educational research and high-level education, so they perform a lot of literature reviews and other types of academic study. However, both involve practical and theory-based work.
Do you want to earn a doctorate in education but can’t decide which type of program to choose? Then, look no further for the answers to your questions.
Here, we’ll discuss the difference between an Ed.D. and Ph.D., including the careers they’re both geared toward, what their respective course schedules look like, how long they take to get, and more.
If you are working towards your Ed.D., your curriculum will likely be geared towards solving on-the-ground problems in the educational system.
Projects for Ed.D. programs often include participating in workshops and research in the community, up to implementing a program in a classroom and reporting the findings. Specific coursework is determined by the area you specialize in. For instance, if you’re focusing on creating best practices for special education, you’ll likely spend time working in various special education rooms.
Those with Ed.D. degrees often seek positions in administration or community or district-wide leadership, seeking to improve schools and other educational resources in their communities.
If you choose to pursue the Ed.D. route, you may also choose to specialize in different leadership tracks such as:
There are many possible careers with Doctor of Education degrees, but salaries for the most common include:
A Ph.D. in education focuses on conducting research that enhances the profession and educational system. Most people with this doctorate spend some time working as a professor or postsecondary administrator.
Ph.D. in education programs generally require courses in research, independent study, and best practices, culminating in a dissertation.
That said, teaching-related internships and research are often needed.
With a Ph.D. in education, you will usually seek employment as a college professor or educational researcher. This means you should want to teach and conduct research at the collegiate level. While some people can ultimately focus their efforts on research, being asked to teach is common.
While both Ed.D. and Ph.D. programs allow many of the same specialties, some more common with Ph.D. programs are:
No matter the specialty, many Ph.D. holders work in college classrooms and administration. The salaries and job growth estimates for those areas are:
Both a Ph.D. in education and an Ed.D. are intended to extend a teacher’s knowledge and ability in education. Each requires research in your intended field and the defense of a dissertation, capstone project, or other comprehensive final exploration of a topic.
You can refer to yourself as “doctor” whether you have a Ph.D. or Ed.D. However, you should be aware of the context in which you’re using it since almost everyone associates the term with medical doctors. In your classroom? Go ahead! In a place where it could be confusing? Consider leaving your title at home.
While common career paths were named under both the Ed.D. and Ph.D. sections above, you aren’t barred from entering those careers with the other doctorate. While it’s more common, for instance, for someone with an Ed.D. to work hands-on in the schools, someone with a Ph.D. can definitely do that too.
Some doctoral programs allow you to pick an area to specialize in, while others only enroll students for specific types of specialties. It’s rare for a student not to specialize—to work as a doctor in education, you need to have a particular area you’re passionate enough about to want to focus your studies on it.
Common specialization tracks for both degree types can include:
While you can have other degrees in all those specializations, doctoral degrees allow you to make bigger picture decisions.
For instance, someone with a master’s in ECE may serve as a consultant or manager of an ECE center, while someone with a doctorate is more likely to work at the policy level to ensure a community’s early childhood education goals are met. (If you want to teach ECE and not work in those levels, consider an associate or bachelor’s degree in the field, as those are typically all you need.)
Getting a Ph.D. in education or an Ed.D. is worthwhile for some people and not for others. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding to pursue a doctoral degree in education:
Both doctoral degrees in education can lead to professional advancement. The two primary factors to consider are how much time you have to spend in school and what your careers goals are:
If you’re beginning to explore careers in education , you may have made it to this page as part of figuring out the path to your ideal career in the field. Remember: No matter what, you need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to pursue a doctorate in education. Depending on the requirements of the programs that might be offered at your school of choice, you may also need a master’s degree .
However, if you’re getting ready to enter a specific job that requires a doctorate, it’s time to explore doctoral programs in your state or online.
Whether you choose an Ed.D., Ph.D., or choose to remain at the bachelor’s or master’s degree levels, a career in education—even one that seems a bit outside the box —means you’re likely to change lives. We at EducationDegree are here to help with our wealth of articles and other resources to set you up for success.
(Salary data reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2020 for teachers and administrators . Figures represent national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Information accessed October 2021.)
After a Master’s of Science in Education , getting a doctorate in education is the right step towards advancing your knowledge on the subject matter and implementing your ideas and projects in the community. You can take two different paths: an EdD (Doctorate of Education) and a Ph.D. (Doctorate of Philosophy in Education).
Both come with benefits that can suit different people, and this article will tell you all there is to know about the key differences between EdD vs PhD, what career paths you can take, and which doctorate is better for you.
An EdD degree is an applied doctorate in education that best suits educators who want to pursue leadership roles in colleges or schools and implement government policies. By the end of their studies, the graduates can develop new projects and apply them to the community.
An EdD is handy in advancing your skills in training teachers, pushing for innovative policies, and researching specific fields. With the program’s flexibility for working hours, EdD helps students build their careers during their studies. Some of these career options include:
Elementary School Administrators are in charge of staffing and overseeing the management of elementary schools. Additionally, they develop academic programs and monitor teachers ‘and students’ progress.
Coordinators manage the curricula at elementary, secondary schools, and colleges. Moreover, coordinators help apply effective teaching strategies and increase the effectiveness of programs.
Directors of Assessment develop and lead assessment programs to aid the university’s strategic initiatives. Moreover, they oversee each stage of assessment programs and help with institutional decision-making.
An EdD takes about three years to complete. Still, it can take up to four or five years, depending on your circumstances, such as occupation and family obligations, not sticking to plans, not receiving enough supervision, or other academic delays.
At the University of the Potomac, an EdD takes three years to complete for most students. Generally, the coursework takes about two years, whereas researching and writing the dissertation is done in the third year.
Getting an EdD opens doors for many job opportunities with a promising job outlook. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) sees a job outlook of 8% for Principals in this decade, with annual pay of $98,420.
Other career choices in education with above-average salaries include Education Coordinators ( $46,986 ) and Directors of Assessment ( $66,927 ).
A PhD in Education is a theoretical research-based doctorate in the education field. This doctorate is best suited for people who strive for an academic career as a professor or a researcher. As a PhD student, you will be encouraged to observe and research new solutions for old problems.
PhDs in Education offer many job opportunities in academia, though university professors and education administrators are the most common. Other career choices include:
Policy makers can help secure funding and support in poorer school areas, raise teaching standards, reduce class overcrowding, and work with local school boards on how students can be educated best.
Academic researchers are responsible for publishing papers about problems and solutions in education. Additionally, they may supervise Master’s and PhD students during their academic projects.
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A PhD in education takes about six to ten years . It all depends on the subject matter and the circumstances surrounding the student, which can be mental burnout, inconclusive results, weak mentorship, and family and work obligations.
Same as EdD careers , careers focused on academia for PhDs also have a great outlook in this decade. The BLS reports an 8% increase in the Postsecondary Education Administrators job outlook, with an annual salary of $96,910. Another promising-looking career for PhD graduates is the Postsecondary Teachers career, with a yearly salary of $79,640 and a job outlook of 12%.
The two doctorates are equal in academic value and rigor; however, the main difference between an EdD and a PhD is the approach to the practicality of the acquired skills. On one hand, an EdD is more project-based and is of applied nature. On the other hand, a PhD is more research-based and theoretical in nature.
Regarding careers, EdD post-graduates are more focused on education leadership positions. Meanwhile, PhD career choices lean towards teaching and research roles. Moreover, an EdD career offers collaboration opportunities with people in the same field of study and builds networks that help implement policies and projects. PhDs, on the other hand, provide opportunities for individual research.
Either an EdD or a PhD in Education are great ways to advance in the educational field; however, you must consider all factors before choosing. If you want to have a closer role in the community or become an applied educational researcher, an EdD is perfect for you. On the other hand, if you want to become an educational theorist and have an academic research role, a PhD might be the right degree for you.
Even though both are equal in standing, the better doctorate is the doctorate closer to your path.
While it’s easy to put EdD vs PhD in Education and measure their worth, we have to consider the effort and time spent on each path and how much our educational system benefits from each person that chooses one or the other. EdDs and PhDs have a lot of benefits for the students pursuing them. They offer opportunities to advance in your field of study and help your community with more effective teaching.
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Professionals in fields like higher education and healthcare who want to continue to grow in their careers often consider further education. However, for the aspiring leader or educator who already holds a master’s degree, the question to consider is: what is the difference between an Ed.D. and Ph.D.?
While these degree programs have some overlap, they are distinct in their coursework and intended outcomes. Understanding these differences can help professionals choose the right program for them and ensure that their degree choice aligns with their professional goals. For example, a Ph.D. is research-intensive, while an Ed.D. is practitioner-based. The differences don’t stop there — the number of credit hours, program length, and goal of student projects vary between the Ph.D. and Ed.D. as well.
Consider the similarities and differences between the Ph.D. and Ed.D. to discover the best program for your professional path.
A Ph.D., which is short for Doctor of Philosophy, is an academic degree that is heavily focused on research, data, and theory. A Ph.D. is the most advanced degree an individual can earn in a given area of study or professional field, also known as a terminal degree.
Typically, a Ph.D. program prepares students for faculty and/or researcher roles. While some graduates work as practitioners, most Ph.D.-holders tend to choose occupations in areas like academia or theoretical development.
Ph.D. programs usually feature around 90 credit hours and tend to take five or more years to complete.
Short for Doctor of Education, an Ed.D. is a practitioner-focused doctorate that is specifically designed for professionals aspiring to education leadership roles in various fields. Like the Ph.D., the Ed.D. is considered a terminal degree in the field of education.
A primary difference between the Ph.D. and Ed.D. is that the Ph.D. focuses only on research while the Ed.D. emphasizes the practical application of research. Additionally, the Ph.D. tends to prepare graduates for roles in academia, while the Ed.D. has greater cross-industry potential. For example, an Ed.D. graduate may become a scholar or faculty member, but, depending on their experience and interests, they may also pursue an industry-specific role like Nurse Educator or Chief Learning Officer.
Students can typically complete their Ed.D. program in 2–3 years. The degree plan tends to comprise around 60 credit hours.
For professionals who are interested in an academic career path, the Ph.D. offers several benefits. Many fields of study require that professors or researchers hold a Ph.D. in the given subject. A terminal degree is almost always required for tenure-track professor positions at most universities, and in many fields, that terminal degree is a Ph.D.
Ph.D.-holders are also seen as credible experts in their areas of research. As a result, they may be called upon to contribute further to their field by researching, writing, writing and speaking.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , individuals who earn a Ph.D. also have low unemployment rates and relatively high earnings. In 2021, for example, doctoral-degree holders earned a median weekly rate of $1909 and a 1.5 percent unemployment rate. In contrast, master’s degree holders earned a median weekly rate of $1574 and faced an unemployment rate of 2.6 percent.
The Ed.D. is an ideal degree choice for the professional who wants to become a leader and educator in their industry field. Rather than focusing primarily on theoretical research, the Ed.D. prepares practitioners to apply research, data, and insights in the workplace.
Through coursework in educational leadership, managerial communications, and organizational behavior, Ed.D. students become equipped for the highest levels of leadership in various organizations.
Since the BLS does not distinguish between the Ph.D. and Ed.D., instead measuring the salary and unemployment standards among all doctoral degree holders, the median weekly wage of $1,909 and an unemployment rate of 1.5 percent apply here as well.
Learn more about RUO's Online Ed.D Programs
Individuals who earn a Ph.D. often decide to pursue career paths in academia, such as a faculty position at a college or university. Often called professors or faculty members, postsecondary teachers teach courses beyond the high school level. Often, they are also responsible for conducting ongoing research, publishing scholarly articles and books, and serving as an expert in their area of study.
As employees of a college or university, postsecondary teachers often perform job duties such as:
Postsecondary teachers earn an average salary of $79,640 per year. Their job outlook rate is faster than average, with 12% growth expected between 2020–2030.
In addition to postsecondary teaching roles, Ph.D.-holders may also pursue opportunities as postdoctoral, academic, or professional researchers.
An important difference between the Ph.D. and Ed.D. is the range of practitioner-based roles available to professionals who earn an Ed.D.. Since the Ed.D. focuses on applying research and theory directly to the workplace, there are many leadership positions available to Ed.D. graduates who are already practiced in putting their knowledge to work in real-world ways.
Like Ph.D. graduates, Ed.D.-holding professionals may also become postsecondary teachers. Oftentimes, Ed.D. graduates who become faculty do so in highly practical fields like education or healthcare. They use their Ed.D. and industry knowledge to prepare the next generation of professionals in their field with both theory and practical application that directly applies to their careers.
Ed.D. graduates may also pursue industry-specific roles, each of which has specific duties, salaries, and job outlooks. A few examples include:
Individuals who are interested in a Ph.D. program first need to obtain the relevant bachelor’s or master’s degrees that are required in order to apply. Once enrolled, a Ph.D. program will require the completion of both coursework and a dissertation. While many Ph.D. programs take place in person, there are online Ph.D. programs available as well.
At Rockhurst University, professionals can earn their Ed.D. degree fully online in just two years. Applicants can enroll with a master’s degree or 33 graduate credits. Upon acceptance, students will take courses and complete a doctoral capstone project that aligns with their area of concentration: Higher Education , K–12 Leadership , or Health Care Education .
Cohort-based classes support student success and facilitate positive connections between faculty and students. Recognizing that Ed.D. students are working professionals, the program is flexible, accessible, and has no travel requirement. One virtual residency and a doctoral capstone project ensure that each student is empowered to tailor their academic experience to their workplace goals and objectives.
Recent capstone projects from the program highlight the thoughtful, practical approach that characterizes the degree:
As a Catholic, Jesuit, liberal arts university, Rockhurst University emphasizes comprehensive and supportive education that prepares students to engage the world as compassionate, thoughtful leaders. Learn more about Rockhurst’s online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership program.
In the heart of Kansas City since 1910, Rockhurst University is dedicated to learning, leadership and service in the Jesuit tradition, and today is the #1 Regional University in Kansas City (2021 U.S. News and World Report).
Rockhurst University’s online programs are delivered by the highly reputable Saint Luke’s ™ College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the School of Education. As an educational leader serving exceptional students in the field of health care and education, we are committed to preparing the workforce of tomorrow with our unique programs designed to prepare graduates to meet the needs of diverse populations and work in various organizations.
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Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > Tips for Students > EdD Vs. PhD: Key Differences And Tips For Choosing
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Updated: June 19, 2024
Published: July 8, 2020
When it comes to education, there is a broad array of jobs within the field. Depending on what kind of position and career you wish to have, you can choose to earn either an EdD or PhD. Regardless of which you choose to earn, you’ll first need to have your master’s in education . Then, you can decide which degree to pursue between an EdD vs. PhD by understanding their differences and choosing the path that will best help you to achieve your career goals.
An EdD stands for a Doctor of Education. It’s a professional degree that is intended for those who want to work in educational leadership or business. The degree is practice-based and prepares graduates to be able to influence both communities and educational systems. Candidates can work in K-12 education, higher education, nonprofits, the military, government, and healthcare.
A PhD in Education stands for Doctor of Philosophy in Education. For those earning their PhD in Education, it’s a terminal degree — which means it’s the ultimate degree level one can earn. PhD programs are more theoretical in nature and study-based compared to the practical design of an EdD. It’s the better choice for students who want to become a professor, land a tenure position, or work in academic research. Students often are published in journals, present at conferences and learn how to teach other educators during their PhD.
Graduates with an EdD can work in a variety of positions. Common jobs for those with an EdD include:
In elementary, middle, and high schools, school administrators manage academic programs, staffing, and budgets within their district.
Administrators work in colleges and universities to help oversee faculty, admissions, student affairs, and academics.
Those with an EdD can serve in executive positions such as chief learning officers or chief academic officers. These C-suite executives create strategies to help the company achieve business goals.
Instructional coordinators design curricula and educational materials. They may work with teachers to help provide learning strategies and maximize learning for students.
What can you do with a phd.
A PhD is a more theoretical program. It is designed to train graduates to be able to take up teaching positions at the college level or to perform research. Those with a PhD may become:
Professors teach at a college or university level. They are often focused on research and publish their work in journals or books.
Researchers can work in their own research center and often have the opportunity to obtain funding for their work. They may perform research on behalf of a government, public, or private institution.
It’s already obvious as to how these two programs are dramatically different. Let’s dive into more details regarding how they compare to one another.
It goes without saying that the educational requirements for the two degrees are quite different. Let’s take a look at what they are:
Along with the popular career tracks for those who earn an EdD and PhD, there are more speciality tracks a prospective student can choose from.
PhD programs offer specializations in:
On the other hand, EdD programs have specializations in:
There’s really no single right or wrong answer as to who should get a PhD versus an EdD. Ultimately, the best way to decide is based on your career goals.
If you want to be a professor or perform academic research, then a PhD is the better path to take. If you’d rather work in administration or policy, then a practical degree like an EdD is the right choice to make !
Ultimately, when you’re deciding which degree to pursue, you’ll want to take the following into consideration:
If you have yet to earn your master’s degree, that will be the first step you’ll have to take in any case. You can even choose to earn your master’s degree in education online. The University of the People offers an entirely online program that is tuition-free for those seeking to earn their master’s in education at an affordable, accessible, and quality institution.
One of the best parts about the program at UoPeople is that not only is it accredited, but it also reflects the teaching standards of the International Baccalaureate (IB). Students can complete the program by taking a minimum of 13 courses for 39 credits.
The choice is yours to make.
Whether you decide to earn your EdD or PhD, you’ll be making a major life decision. Both degree paths lead to different positions in education. Remember, EdDs are more practical in nature and lead to jobs in administration or executive-level opportunities in business. PhDs are geared towards those seeking a career in academia and research.
Once you understand your career goals, choosing between an EdD vs. PhD becomes a much clearer and easier choice to make!
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At UoPeople, our blog writers are thinkers, researchers, and experts dedicated to curating articles relevant to our mission: making higher education accessible to everyone. Read More
Updated on March 29, 2023
A Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education each shapes the educational world in different ways. These degrees can chart different career paths in academia, the private sector and civil service.
A Doctor of Education and a PhD in Education each offers students ample opportunities for leadership, learning and research. However, each comes with distinctions and unique advantages.
Both a PhD and Ed.D. are terminal degrees that can help you affect the future of education , but understanding the differences and similarities can help you make the right educational investment.
The main difference between an Ed.D. vs. a PhD is the end focus of the graduate’s career. An Ed.D. has a practical emphasis that may go outside of academia. A PhD in education is the more scholarly concentration of the two, more often than not culminating in research-based studies.
A PhD usually pursues a teaching career in academia and does first-hand research to help inform best practices. This allows candidates a primary exploration of their field.
A PhD is likely to take on the role of an academic in higher education. PhD candidates are likely to publish original research in academic journals and present research papers at conferences.
A Doctor of Education degree tends to be more focused on the practical application of education within an organization. An Ed.D. is the more hands-on degree of the two, with more direct leadership opportunities. While many Doctor of Education graduates teach, conduct research and take on administrative roles in higher education, this degree may also culminate in non-academic settings, such as the private sector.
For those pursuing a career in education, government, the nonprofit sector or business, an Ed.D. degree may be ideal. Instead of fielding new research, an Ed.D. applies existing knowledge to solve problems within an organization. This enables them to exercise leadership and make data-informed decisions based on concepts like social assessments and organizational theory.
Both an Ed.D. and a PhD can open doors to career advancement. This brings the potential for promotion and greater compensation in comparison to that of a bachelor’s or master’s degree. In fact, employers and students are demanding advanced degrees more than ever.
An Ed.D. and a PhD in Education have key aspects in common. Each degree develops leadership within a candidate and equips them to understand both research and statistics.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 24.1 million people in the United States have a master’s degree as their highest degree. The number of people with doctoral degrees is 4.7 million . These numbers total 14.4% of the U.S. population.
Total post-graduate degree enrollment increased by 10% between fall 2009 and fall 2020 — the most recent data due to the pandemic. By 2030, the total number of students enrolled in post-graduate programs is expected to increase to 3.3 million students, 6% higher than 2020 figures.
What’s more, according to a 2022 survey conducted by Public Agenda, 86% of Americans feel that earning a college education can help individuals further their careers.
Both a Doctor of Education and a PhD in Education are rigorous and authoritative degrees that focus on professional knowledge, innovation and problem-solving. Both advanced degrees are in the same field. But when you’re ready to advance your career, understanding the differences and similarities between these options is key.
While an Ed.D. and a PhD are similar in some ways, each degree has a slightly different ideal candidate.
A person best suited to an Ed.D. degree is searching for a more concrete, real-world approach to education. An Ed.D. candidate will often already be working in education or a related field full time and want to pursue their Ed.D. degree to enhance their leadership skills and professional knowledge.
They may work for an educational institution or perhaps in a university setting. Other roles may include the nonprofit sector or a business focused on professional development or training, a government agency or even civil service.
An Ed.D. degree may be more suited to students who want:
A PhD candidate is traditionally focused on conducting research that drives changes. They may not necessarily be interested in implementing change but in conducting leading-edge research. Their work can influence education and public policy.
PhD students need to master their subject area and extend scholarly knowledge on that subject. This might focus on policy in education, leadership in education, child cognitive development, literacy or the sociology of education.
A PhD in Education may make sense for students who want to:
While neither an Ed.D. or a PhD in education is better than the other, each degree offers unique benefits based on your career goals and other factors.
An Ed.D. candidate can enjoy:
A PhD candidate can enjoy:
The coursework for a PhD vs Ed.D. degree varies between two and six years of study and between 60 and 90 credit hours.
While some commonalities in career trajectory exist, these degrees see many graduates landing in different careers. The salary depends on the career path a graduate chooses, and there may also be additional influencing factors, such as years of experience and job location.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports on the 2021 salary statistics for educational leadership positions that Ed.D. graduates can pursue:
PhD graduates tend to remain in research and higher education. The salary site Payscale reports that graduates with a PhD in Education made a median annual salary of approximately $89,000 as of March 2023.
Deciding whether an Ed.D., PhD or another advanced degree is right for you depends on your career goals.
Marymount University’s Online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) program can be instrumental in helping you achieve those goals. The fully online program is designed to allow you to cultivate knowledge and skills at your own pace, with a curriculum rooted in social justice, ethics and equity. Find out how Marymount can prepare you for a career with true impact.
If you’re thinking about getting a doctorate degree in education, you have a couple of options to choose from: an EdD or a PhD.
You may be wondering: What does EdD stand for? And what does PhD stand for? EdD means “Doctor of Education,” and PhD stands for “Doctor of Philosophy.” Although it might seem that a PhD doesn’t deal with education, a PhD is the most advanced degree for a wide range of subjects, not unlike how a Bachelor of Arts can permit specialization in fields other than art. Let’s explore what these programs have in common, how they differ, and how you can decide which is the right fit for you.
PhDs and EdDs are terminal degrees, meaning they are the highest degrees awarded in the field. Both doctoral programs in education earn you the title of Doctor and allow you to become an expert in your field. They may qualify you for new professional opportunities, which can lead to a higher yearly salary. For example, both EdD and PhD graduates can expect to earn somewhere between $60,000 and $80,000 a year.
You can expect both programs to provide rigorous coursework and discussion opportunities with classmates. There is also some overlap between the types of jobs that an EdD and a PhD hold; for example, professor at the college level tend to hold PhDs, but some will hold EdDs.
Although both EdD and PhD are doctorate programs that will advance your education career, their focus is different.
Like other specialized doctoral programs, an EdD is more practice-oriented. While these programs require research, they emphasize internships and on-site experience, focusing on the application of educational ideas in running schools and colleges. This type of program is best suited for people who want to be a school principal or equivalent administrative leader in either K-12 or higher education.
On the other hand, a PhD in Education focuses more on developing theories of educational practice or educational policies. Depending on the specialization, PhDs in Education might research topics like cognitive development, educational leadership strategies, or the sociology of education. A PhD is most likely the right choice for those wishing to research and study how current educational practices could be improved.
EdDs and PhDs also differ in the time commitment and funding availability. EdDs usually require 60 hours of coursework and can often be completed in two years, whereas PhDs require 90 hours and at least four years. However, there is usually more funding for PhD programs available, so PhD students are generally able to dedicate more focused attention to their studies. On the other hand, many EdD students work full-time jobs to support their families while getting their education.
Let’s review some of the key differences between EdDs and PhDs:
If you’re still unsure about which program to choose, the best thing you can do is to ask current EdD and PhD students about their experiences. Oftentimes, hearing a firsthand account will give you the clarity you need to take the next step in your education. By researching your options and talking with students, you’re well placed to choose the program best suited to your professional goals.
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EdD vs. PhD in Education. A Doctor of Education is a professional degree designed for practitioners pursuing educational leadership roles. A Doctor of Philosophy in Education, on the other hand, is designed to prepare graduates for research and teaching roles. "With a PhD, [students are] reviewing the research, seeing a gap in the literature ...
Discover the difference between an Ed.D., a Ph.D., and an Ed.S. and how to choose the right program to reach your goals.
Doctor of Education (EdD) vs. PhD in Education Earning an advanced degree can be both a life achievement and an effective tool for career advancement. But even with closely related areas, like the EdD vs PhD in education, you can find more than a few significant differences.
Learn everything you need to know about the difference between a doctor of education (EdD) degree and a doctor of philosophy in education (PhD) degree.
Looking to pursue a PhD or an EdD in education? We outline the distinctions between a PhD vs. EdD so you can decide which is more in line with your career goals.
An EdD primarily prepares graduates to become leaders and strategists in the education field—for example, as superintendents, deans, provosts, and school district officials—while a PhD is more tailored to preparing graduates for instructional and research roles in education and higher education, for example, as professors and researchers.
Discover the differences between an EdD and PhD An EdD is a doctorate in education that is primarily for experienced practitioners interested in using education research to solve problems of practice, assuming leadership positions, preparing the next generation of practitioners in their field, and designing and implementing programs to improve practice. A PhD is a doctorate in philosophy that ...
What's the difference between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Doctor of Education (EdD)? Both are advanced degrees that represent the high levels of graduate scholarship.
The final difference between Ed.D. programs vs. Ph.D. programs is the way the formats are commonly structured by colleges and universities. Because of its more practical, hands-on focus, the Ed.D. is usually a credit-based program that can be delivered via online study as well as on-campus study (or with some combination of the two).
Discover the differences between EdD and PhD in Education programs. We explore their reputation, value, fit based on your goals.
Are you passionate about being a part of the future of education? Well, in the world of education, two prestigious degrees stand out: the EdD and PhD in Education. Learn more about the EdD and PhD in Education degrees and the difference between the two below!
What is an EdD in Education? An EdD is a doctorate in education, and prepares you for a career in educational leadership. Like the PhD degree, you will learn to interpret research. However, EdD programs train you to apply the research in real-world settings.
While there are many similarities between an EdD and a PhD, there are also some key differences. As the BLS points out for an EdD vs PhD, one of the main differences is that an EdD is geared more toward practical application or research, while a PhD is more focused on theoretical research. Another difference is that an EdD can typically be ...
Learn the difference between a PhD in Education and a Doctor of Education, and how they can lead you to various career paths.
EdD vs. PhD in Education. A Doctor of Education (EdD) is a professional degree designed for practitioners pursuing educational leadership roles. A PhD in education, on the other hand, is designed to prepare graduates for research and teaching roles. "With a PhD, [students are] reviewing the research, seeing a gap in the literature, and ...
A Ph.D. in Education is a terminal degree that's best suited for individuals who want a career in academia or research at the university level. Students in a Ph.D. program take a more theoretical approach to learning, which involves publishing original research to contribute to the field of education.
In essence, the primary difference between a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is that an Ed.D. focuses on practical skills, while a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) focuses on theory and research. Those pursuing an Ed.D. typically want to work in education leadership roles, so they perform hands-on work while pursuing ...
EdD vs PhD in Education: What Are The Differences? The two doctorates are equal in academic value and rigor; however, the main difference between an EdD and a PhD is the approach to the practicality of the acquired skills.
A primary difference between the Ph.D. and Ed.D. is that the Ph.D. focuses only on research while the Ed.D. emphasizes the practical application of research. Additionally, the Ph.D. tends to prepare graduates for roles in academia, while the Ed.D. has greater cross-industry potential.
From the difference between an EdD and a PhD in Education to careers you can pursue with each, explore these two doctoral degrees. While both are terminal degrees—the highest degree awarded in a particular field—EdDs and PhDs in education are distinctly different, each with its own merits and advantages. The one you choose should be based on both your academic interests and your career goals.
Learning the differences between an EdD vs. PhD can help you choose the degree that's right for you. Each leads to different careers and requires different time commitments.
Discover the differences between a PhD vs Ed.D, and learn how each terminal degree can prepare individuals for different types of advanced career pathways.
EdD vs PhD, What's the Difference: Although both EdD and PhD are doctorate programs that will advance your education career, their focus is different.