Doctorate in Education Programs

Advanced Degrees in Education: A Doctorate in Education

A doctorate degree is the highest level of education you can achieve in a particular field. By receiving a doctorate in education, you have shown your dedication to research in your field, and to applying that research to help others.

If you already have your master's degree and want an even higher level of education, completing a doctorate in education will give you higher pay and greater job opportunities. Many people who earn a doctorate in education get roles in school leadership and education administration, or work as researchers or curriculum developers. Doctorate degrees require approximately 15 post-master's classes, an exam and a research-based dissertation. To find out which degree you will need in order to meet your career goals, read our article, "How to Become a Teacher."

• Enjoy the fruits of your hard work

The more education you get, the more you earn. Those with a doctorate in education have earned the highest degree possible and are compensated accordingly.




• A doctorate in education provides upward career mobility

As you rise in the ranks of education, you will become more and more specialized. Your knowledge and influence are increasingly recognized by others in your field. With a doctorate in education, you will have the opportunity to work in educational administration and educational leadership roles that require advanced degrees.




• Make a difference with a doctorate in education

With a doctorate in education, you will be a source of knowledge to your peers and to those who are working for you. With your research experience, you can make your visions become reality, and improve education for all.

Choosing Between a Doctorate in Education and a Doctor of Philosophy

There are two different doctorate degrees in education, a Doctorate in Education (EdD) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD). They are both education doctoral degrees, but the EdD tends to be more project-based, while the PhD is more research-based or theoretical in nature. Read on to determine which doctorate in education is best for you.

Doctorate in Education (EdD)

If you are interested in becoming a policy maker, a superintendent of schools or applied educational researcher, the EdD was designed with you in mind. Although based on research, EdD degrees stress the practical application of your research to the field of education.

Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD)

If you are interested in an academic research role, such as a university professor, teacher educator or educational theorist, a PhD will be your degree of choice. Educational PhD programs emphasize the development of educational theory through research that generates new knowledge, and adds to the theory of education. Educational PhD degrees are similar to EdD degrees in requirements, but they tend to emphasize more theoretical research. This will be reflected in your PhD dissertation.

Choose the Doctorate in Education that's Right for You

So whether you're more theoretical or practical, there's a doctorate in education to suit your career goals. Search the doctoral degree programs below to find the PhD or EdD that's right for you, and request information from the schools that fulfill your educational goals. With your doctorate in education, you decide how to best further your career goals—and improve the quality of education across the country.