Education

Types of Online Education Doctorates

There are two major doctoral degrees in education, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education and the Doctor of Education (EdD), each with a set of specializations, distinctions and outcomes. The choice ultimately depends on the career goal of the student. For an online PhD, education programs focus on scholarship and research into theoretical subjects, while the EdD is designed for professionals who apply best practices in the educational workplace. The PhD is a dissertation-focused program suited for educational theorists and university-based educators. The EdD is an advanced project-focused program appropriate for superintendents, curriculum administrators and school district policy leaders. The following breakdown sheds greater light on the curriculum and outcomes as they align with career objectives.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education

The PhD is recognized as the pinnacle of academic achievement in education. Pursuing an online PhD, education students typically spend from three to five years, depending on specializations and requirements. These PhDs typically require completion of 90-95 credits beyond the bachelor's degree. Applicants usually must hold a master's degree in education. PhD studies include focused research in fields such as early childhood and special education, instructional technology, educational psychology, curriculum development, statistical methods, experimental design and critical pedagogy. Mid-path examinations are common to benchmark a student's understanding of the subject matter and qualify them for PhD candidacy.

When seeking an online PhD, education students commonly devote the first two years to completing doctoral-level courses in the major specialization and related colloquia. The balance of the program is applied to completion of a scholarly dissertation focused on the synthesis of applied research that results in the student's contribution to the field. Credits are offered for research and dissertation preparation. The degree is appropriate for scholars preparing for a career in higher education as a professor, researcher or consultant. Graduates may work in colleges and universities, private and governmental educational research organizations, curriculum development and educational testing firms.

The Doctorate of Education

The EdD degree program is the choice for advanced educators seeking leadership or administrative roles that focus on assessment, organizational improvement, policy development and education strategy. Online doctorates in education may take from three to four years to complete, depending whether the student participates in full-time or part-time studies. Graduation requirements vary but closely mirror those in PhD education programs with 90 credits needed beyond the bachelor's degree.

EdD students spend the first year of studies completing required core courses and selected concentration areas in areas including education administration, policy, higher education management and leadership, and resource development and design. The balance of the program is dedicated to research and preparation of a dissertation. Whereas PhD dissertations seek to add to scholarship in the field, EdD dissertations typically concentrate on problems in practice, assessments and remedies. Admissions requirements vary by program; most online schools require completion of a master's degree in education with up to 36 hours that can be transferred for credit.

Researching Education PhDs: Key Questions

Online degree programs have gained acceptance by educators. A 2012 Sloan Consortium study found that more than three-quarters of academic leaders rated the learning outcomes in online education as the same or superior to those in face-to-face instruction. Today, universities with online doctoral programs in education have extended degree options and specializations. These institutions may offer both an online PhD and EdD degree. The challenge for advanced students is to identify the academic path that matches their career aspirations, and to explore how prospective programs meet their academic and course-delivery standards. Before applying to schools, here are three critical areas to research or ask departmental representatives, counselors or faculty advisors about:

1. Is the program accredited, and by which accrediting organization?

Accreditation is the voluntary process through which institutions of higher learning are evaluated on academic standards of quality by an independent agency. National, regional and specialized bureaus may offer accreditations for an entire institution, its school of education, or specific online programs. Accreditation serves to protect the value of a degree, attest to the eminence of one's education and qualify the institution to participate in federal financial aid programs. The U.S. Department of Education maintains a searchable database of accreditations held by postsecondary degree programs.

2. What are the strengths of the program?

Depending on the choice of PhD or EdD programs, which academic qualities distinguish this university? Which online faculty members are known for their subject-matter expertise, publications, professional service or awards? Is the program ranked? Does it participate with state, regional or federal or private research institutions, educational associations or partnerships?

3. What percentage of doctoral students complete their degrees?

Doctoral programs are long and strenuous endeavors. Online doctorates in education present unique challenges for students. Colleges and universities offering an online doctoral education keep track of student progress and degree completion metrics. In some cases, students may temporarily be delayed from completing their dissertation research and writing – even though they have satisfied all course requirements. Ask about the time-to-completion data on previous candidates as well as the percentage of students who earn their degrees.

Doctoral Concentrations and Careers

Online PhD and EdD degree programs provide a core advanced education, allowing students to devote the balance of their studies to specializations pertinent to their career goals. Specialties can overlap across the professions. Some students may focus on research track programs, or they may apply their learning in a number of verticals applicable to teaching and education administration. Here's a detailed list of some of the more popular concentrations at the doctoral level at online schools of education:

Educational Leadership

This doctoral specialty focuses on developing leadership competencies in strategic planning, operations, teacher recruitment, change management, team building and organizational leadership. Curriculum focuses on leadership applications to K-12 and postsecondary education, global business, non-profit organizations and government.

Postsecondary Educator

Doctoral grads join the faculties of postsecondary institutions as community college teachers or college and university professors. At research universities, professors engage in scholarship in their education specialties in addition to leading classes.

Health Care Education and Administration Officers

Graduates holding a Doctor of Education (EdD) with a concentration in Health Care Education serve as instructional designers, researchers, consultants, innovators and administrators in governmental, nonprofit, academic and community settings. They develop and lead initiatives in educational technology, public policy, health promotion and education, and professional development.

Principals and Superintendents of Schools

Armed with an EdD, these education leaders may serve as elementary, middle and high school principals. Advanced roles include leadership officers with school districts, state boards of education or governmental entities overseeing teacher licensing and educational program administration.

Curriculum Developer / Instructional Coordinator

Curriculum developers and officers work with colleges, universities, K-12 school districts, state education organizations and private educational firms in developing and monitoring teaching standards, curriculum, testing and student assessment. They may hold specializations in art, early childhood, stem curriculum, special populations, reading and literacy education.

Special Education

Major studies and research prepare doctoral candidates in leadership theory and evidence-based practice in special education delivery in public or private K-12 schools, education agencies and district-wide organizations. Courses can include studies in behavior analysis, early intervention, disabled – including deaf and blind – populations, emotional disorders, learning disabilities and socioeconomic challenges.

Principals and Superintendents of Schools

Armed with an EdD, these education leaders may serve as elementary, middle and high school principals. Advanced roles include leadership officers with school districts, state boards of education or governmental entities overseeing teacher licensing and educational program administration.

Postsecondary Education Administrators

Education administrators work across the college spectrum in specialties including student advising, admissions and student affairs. They may be appointed as registrars, officers, college deans and provosts. Specializations can include education leadership and policy, technology and innovation.

Educational Counselor/Psychologist

To work in this field, educators are required to complete multidisciplinary degrees that include a psychology specialization. Counselors need to complete state licensing and professional certificates to work as school psychologists.

Educational Psychology/Community Counseling

This specialization focuses on the development of research, theoretical and methodological skills in research, evaluation and measurement in educational psychology. Core studies include courses in child development, cognitive science of teaching, prevention and intervention, educational assessments, and data-driven/evidence-based decision making.

Postsecondary Educator

Doctoral grads join the faculties of postsecondary institutions as community college teachers or college and university professors. At research universities, professors engage in scholarship in their education specialties in addition to leading classes.

Educational Counselor/Psychologist

To work in this field, educators are required to complete multidisciplinary degrees that include a psychology specialization. Counselors need to complete state licensing and professional certificates to work as school psychologists.

Curriculum Developer/Instructional Coordinator

Curriculum developers and officers work with colleges, universities, K-12 school districts, state education organizations and private educational firms in developing and monitoring teaching standards, curriculum, testing and student assessment. They may hold specializations in art, early childhood, stem curriculum, special populations, reading and literacy education.

Health Care Education and Administration Officers

Graduates holding a Doctor of Education (EdD) with a concentration in Health Care Education serve as instructional designers, researchers, consultants, innovators and administrators in governmental, nonprofit, academic and community settings. They develop and lead initiatives in educational technology, public policy, health promotion and education, and professional development.

Language and Literacy

The specialization is designed for research scholars, policy leaders and curriculum developers. Courses focus on literacy theory, language and literacy development, instruction, and special problems arising from social, cultural and linguistic factors.

Principals and Superintendents of Schools

Armed with an EdD, these education leaders may serve as elementary, middle and high school principals. Advanced roles include leadership officers with school districts, state boards of education or governmental entities overseeing teacher licensing and educational program administration.

Curriculum Developer/Instructional Coordinator

Curriculum developers and officers work with colleges, universities, K-12 school districts, state education organizations and private educational firms in developing and monitoring teaching standards, curriculum, testing and student assessment. They may hold specializations in art, early childhood, stem curriculum, special populations, reading and literacy education.

Postsecondary Educator

Doctoral grads join the faculties of postsecondary institutions as community college teachers or college and university professors. At research universities, professors engage in scholarship in their education specialties in addition to leading classes.

Educational Counselor/Psychologist

To work in this field, educators are required to complete multidisciplinary degrees that include a psychology specialization. Counselors need to complete state licensing and professional certificates to work as school psychologists.

Learning and Technology

This program was designed for teaching and research professionals working in both academic and non-academic settings. The curriculum centers on data analysis and issues including modeling, interpretive analysis, learning theory, problem solving, cognitive psychology, technology and organizational change, the design and implementation of online learning environments and related digital materials.

Principals and Superintendents of Schools

Armed with an EdD, these education leaders may serve as elementary, middle and high school principals. Advanced roles include leadership officers with school districts, state boards of education or governmental entities overseeing teacher licensing and educational program administration.

Curriculum Developer / Instructional Coordinator

Curriculum developers and officers work with colleges, universities, K-12 school districts, state education organizations and private educational firms in developing and monitoring teaching standards, curriculum, testing and student assessment. They may hold specializations in art, early childhood, stem curriculum, special populations, reading and literacy education.

Postsecondary Educator

Doctoral grads join the faculties of postsecondary institutions as community college teachers or college and university professors. At research universities, professors engage in scholarship in their education specialties in addition to leading classes.

Educational Counselor/Psychologist

To work in this field, educators are required to complete multidisciplinary degrees that include a psychology specialization. Counselors need to complete state licensing and professional certificates to work as school psychologists.

Corporate Training Manager/Consultant

Training consultants work in the business and nonprofit sectors to plan, develop and enhance employee-education programs. Professionals use the methodologies and problem-solving practices gleaned in their doctoral work to conduct research in best practices and curriculum delivery.

Postsecondary Education Administrators

Education administrators work across the college spectrum in specialties including student advising, admissions and student affairs. They may be appointed as registrars, officers, college deans and provosts. Specializations can include education leadership and policy, technology and innovation.

Postsecondary Educator

Doctoral grads join the faculties of postsecondary institutions as community college teachers or college and university professors. At research universities, professors engage in scholarship in their education specialties in addition to leading classes.

Curriculum Developer / Instructional Coordinator

Curriculum developers and officers work with colleges, universities, K-12 school districts, state education organizations and private educational firms in developing and monitoring teaching standards, curriculum, testing and student assessment. They may hold specializations in art, early childhood, stem curriculum, special populations, reading and literacy education.

Postsecondary Education Administrators

Education administrators work across the college spectrum in specialties including student advising, admissions and student affairs. They may be appointed as registrars, officers, college deans and provosts. Specializations can include education leadership and policy, technology and innovation.

Health Care Education and Administration Officers

Graduates holding a Doctor of Education (EdD) with a concentration in Health Care Education serve as instructional designers, researchers, consultants, innovators and administrators in governmental, nonprofit, academic and community settings. They develop and lead initiatives in educational technology, public policy, health promotion and education, and professional development.

Educational Counselor / Psychologist

To work in this field, educators are required to complete multidisciplinary degrees that include a psychology specialization. Counselors need to complete state licensing and professional certificates to work as school psychologists.

Principals and Superintendents of Schools

Armed with an EdD, these education leaders may serve as elementary, middle and high school principals. Advanced roles include leadership officers with school districts, state boards of education or governmental entities overseeing teacher licensing and educational program administration.

Corporate Training Manager/Consultant

Training consultants work in the business and nonprofit sectors to plan, develop and enhance employee-education programs. Professionals use the methodologies and problem-solving practices gleaned in their doctoral work to conduct research in best practices and curriculum delivery.

Timeline for Online Doctorate, Enrollment to Graduation

By the moment students round their potential degree programs into a short list for applications, the march toward the doctoral begins. The clock is already ticking toward admissions and first-year studies. Keep in mind that many online PhD in Education and EdD programs begin with a pre-semester orientation session, with classes running through all four seasons, including summers. It's time to investigate the application deadlines and requirements, the academic calendar and multi-year course progressions through graduation day – for each school on the short list. The following sample timeline maps out the typical sequence for three-year online doctoral programs in education:

Application requirements can have distinct variations among the online PhD and EdD programs, with required items such as transcripts of previous academic work, letters of recommendation, applicable test scores and, for international students, test scores for proof of English proficiency. There are drop-dead deadlines for submissions of all applications and support materials. Missing a deadline may not only disqualify students for entry, but can push back the schedule for completing the degree by a semester or more. Here are tips for hitting all the applications deadlines:

Submit transcripts and test scores

Most doctoral degree programs in Education do not require Graduate Records Examination (GRE) scores since entry requirements include the satisfactory completion of a post-baccalaureate master's in education from an accredited college or university. Students can order official transcripts from previous undergraduate and graduate schools on the Internet or by mail.

Gather professional endorsements

A critical component of all applications at the doctoral level is the submission of three letters of recommendation from former professors, education administrators or work superiors that attest to skills in the classroom or other current employment. It can take time to contact potential references and more time to receive letters. Start early.

Complete application essays

Essays can make a positive difference in applying to competitive doctoral programs. Target programs indicate the topic and suggested length of application essays, but major components include a declaration of academic goals and interests, a statement of what the student can contribute to the college community, and how the program matches their educational goals and research interests. Be sure to touch up a resume or CV for inclusion in the application packet.

Schedule and complete entry interviews

Online doctoral programs in education may require an interview. In many cases, the requirement can be completed virtually through Skype or school video conferencing tools.

Submit and track application materials

A deadline has the power of a slammed door. Don't miss them. Check with admissions offices to ensure that the packet is complete and arrived on time.

Research residency requirements

Depending on the program, students may be required to attend short-term, on-campus orientations or beginning seminars with their cohorts. These can be required in the summer proceeding the initial fall semester.

Begin applicable research assistantships

One way students can offset tuition costs is to perform directed research for a mentor or education professor.

Identify specialization or area of interest

Typically the School of Education requires first-year students to declare an academic area of interest. The choice not only informs first-year studies but can lay a foundation for work leading up to the thesis or dissertation in the third year. This is the strategic time to begin the challenging amount of reading for the dissertation, along with working with faculty mentors in focusing the research.

Complete introductory and first-year core classes

First-year students may begin the sequence undertaking courses in a review of literature in the field, research methodology, statistics and measurement. In the spring semester, the curriculum turns to initial studies in their specialization.

Undertake advanced studies in the specialization

Depending on the degree and focus, students complete courses beyond the core foundation. Classes may include work in school finance, education law, school psychology, ethnographic methods, educational leadership, language arts and reading, curriculum development and instructional design, educational technology, approaches to educational problems and politics in education.

Begin dissertation research

Working with faculty advisors or mentors, students further refine their research toward solving education problems or evaluating scholarship in their field.

Complete required courses

Students that have not completed the curriculum use this year in finishing core and specialization coursework.

Pass comprehensive examinations

At the beginning of the third year, students sit for a comprehensive examination and assessment of candidacy for the doctorate. The examination covers the academic studies completed in years one and two, measuring the student's integration of key theoretical concepts and educational practices in their field. This is a critical time in measuring progress toward the completion of the degree.

Complete and defend the dissertation

Working with mentors and advisors, students propose a thesis to a departmental panel. Courses this year offer direct credits dedicated to research and writing of the dissertation.

Graduation

Depending upon the degree, students typically submit a formal application for graduation. The select department committee evaluates the student's academic record, satisfaction of course requirements and dissertation defense in recommending approval of the application.

Spotlight: Johns Hopkins University Online EdD

Johns Hopkins University

The School of Education at Johns Hopkins University, established in 2007, has been named #1 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. Scholars at Johns Hopkins Center for Data-Driven Reform in Education have created the pioneering Best-Evidence Encyclopedia which provides scientific reviews in K-12 education. The department also supports the university's Center for Social Organization of Schools, and the Center for Technology in Education

The School of Education offers an online Doctor of Education program requiring 90 graduate credits beyond the bachelor degree, with 54 credits completed in the Johns Hopkins program. Foundation studies are in the science of learning; educational organizations, contexts and systems; and applied research and evaluation. Students may choose one of five specializations: entrepreneurial leadership in education; mind, brain and teaching; instructional design for online teaching and learning; and urban leadership. Coursework is spread over three years, enabling students to enroll part-time so they may continue in their current jobs. Requirements include the completion of three interconnected projects that develop into an applied dissertation on a "problem of practice."

Coursework is completed entirely online, however EdD students are required to attend a residence program at the end of their third year to defend their dissertation. The School of Education is accredited by The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.

About Licensure

All states require teachers to hold licenses, also known as teaching credentials. It is important to note that doctoral programs in education do not confer licenses. Each state board of education establishes and enforces licensing regulations for practicing teachers and administrators. Voluntary National Board Certification is available for pre-K-12 teachers. Advanced students in online doctoral education degree programs may already hold pre-K-12 licenses.

Most states require separate licensing for public education administrators and principals and require completion of a graduate degree. There are usually no licenses required for postsecondary teachers and researchers, however it is customary for college-level teachers to hold licenses in their education specialties. Community colleges may ask for a subject-specific state credential.

Certifications are voluntary, but can bolster qualifications in special education, early childhood education, art education, music education, reading specialists and education administration. View specific certification requirements for each state

Interview with Graduate of an Online PhD Program

Why did you choose an online PhD over an EdD degree?

I explored more than 20 graduate programs to find the right way to go. I'm a licensed K-12 teacher and found myself drawn to emerging theoretical issues in working with at-risk populations. I want to have an impact on training new educators.

What were the challenges of completing your doctorate online?

You have to be proactive in building relationships in your cohort as well as in communicating clearly with your advisors. It's really on you if you expect to sustain your progress over a number of years. Professors are not hired to be motivators or hold your hand. And you have to find balance between your teaching work, time with your wife and kids, and hitting all the milestones without falling behind.

How would you measure the success of completing your PhD?

I'm sure every graduate has a different take on the outcome and the value of their degree. I couldn't find a faculty position right away and worried, even with my teaching to fall back on. But now I'm on the tenure track in an education department that is breaking fresh ground in minority education. It's thrilling.

Do you have advice for students entering online PhD or EdD programs?

Despite the pressure of completing the program, keep your hand in teaching. Stay ahead of readings and assignments, and use all the online tools that keep you engaged in the community.

The Education Doctorate: Cost and ROI

The pragmatic question students face when considering doctoral work in education is, "can you get where you want to go without one?" If the response is "yes" then the second question is whether the degree is ultimately worth what it costs. One way to gain perspective is evaluate the time and money that went into undergraduate work, the outcome, and whether a doctorate is a financially sound investment in building on expertise and experience to advance in the professions. When it comes down to money, each individual should assess their goals and what financial returns accompany career changes or advancement. Let's begin by looking at the associated costs for completing online doctorates in education.

Footing the Bill

The fundamental cost of an online PhD or EdD is tuition, mapped to the total credits or years comprising the program. Tuition can vary dramatically by type of institution – public or private, and for-profit or nonprofit. Colleges and universities calibrate tuition by the charge per academic credit, by semester or quarter. Accredited institutions can also offer scholarships, tuition waivers and federal education loans to qualified candidates. For example, in 2014 the Department of Education at Johns Hopkins granted doctoral degree scholarships between $250 and $1,000 per course based on academic merit. Depending on the institution, graduate students enrolled in the PhD pathway may receive student teaching or research assistantships to offset tuition costs, although these commitments can extend the time needed to complete a program. In addition to tuition, institutions usually charge miscellaneous service fees, and students are responsible for buying books and materials. Short residencies for program orientation or the presentation and defense of a dissertation could represent expenses, depending on the program. There are cost benefits of pursuing an online doctorate – students realize savings by averting commuting or parking fees, relocation expenses and other costs commonly related to campus-based doctoral programs. Some institutions do not charge out-of-state tuition for online doctoral degree students.

Because online PhD programs are designed to dovetail with family and employment commitments, many students continue to earn income during the course of their degree work. Every educational budget should factor in current costs of living in addition to the price of the degree. But in looking at the return of investment (ROI) in time and money in completing a doctorate, potential students should determine whether their earnings and opportunities would keep pace at their current level of educational attainment and what they stand to gain by adding a degree.

The Doctoral Payoff in Earnings

The 2011 Georgetown University study, "What's It Worth? The Economic Value of College Majors," reported that the median income of a bachelor's degree holder in education was $42,000 per year, totaling five-year earnings of $210,000. In contrast, the study found median annual earnings of an educator with a graduate degree of $57,000, or $285,000 in five years' earning potential. Yet those projections in increased earnings don't reflect the scope and range of earnings for those with doctorates who have completed specializations and become administrators or professors.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has compiled a listing of educational careers and related 2013 median annual pay in K-12 education, administration, and postsecondary teaching and research roles. Earnings of college professors vary widely. For example, the BLS reports a profound difference in median annual earnings for law professors ($99,950) and education professors ($68,970). The following earnings do not take into account promotions within the field.

Projecting income and tuition costs is one way to examine the ROI of an education doctorate. The range in tuition for three-year EdD and PhD programs is extensive. Let's examine ROI for programs at the low end of the scale and those near the top.

Using the tuition calculator of a for-profit university offering an online EdD program in 2015, the estimated 30-month tuition cost totaled $45,360. Using salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2013, the estimates below show potential doctoral earnings, suggesting that a school administrator could recoup tuition costs for the EdD in less than three years.

For further comparison, the total tuition for one public university's online PhD in Education in 2015 tallies $81,660. Using salary estimates from the BLS for 2013, data shows that the increased earnings of advancing to postsecondary teaching could pay off the degree in less than four years.