What is Doctorate in Education (EdD)?

Doctorate in Education (EdD) and learn how this advanced degree can enhance your expertise and open doors in the field of education. The EdD, or Doctorate in Education, is tailored for seasoned educators and professionals in the educational sector, integrating hands-on work with original research contributions. Unlike traditional PhDs in Education, EdD programs emphasize the connections between educational theory and real-world application.

This credential is perfectly suited for individuals aiming to ascend into higher leadership or policy-making positions within the education system. This section outlines what the EdD entails, including details about course layout, admission criteria, tuition, and financial aid. Additionally, we have clarified the distinctions between an EdD and a standard PhD.

What is a Doctorate in Education?

An EdD is a final, application-oriented degree that can be pursued after obtaining a master’s level qualification, such as a Master of Education (MEd). It is mainly aimed at individuals aiming for roles in educational administration. EdD programs provide multiple specializations that cater to your specific interests in education, including areas like educational leadership, educational technology, and curriculum development.

EdD vs. PhD in education

If you aspire to achieve the highest level of education in the field, a PhD in education is another option available to you. The key distinction between an EdD and a PhD lies in their respective course content. EdD programs often focus on subjects relevant to educators and school administrators in K–12 settings and in colleges and universities. Conversely, PhD programs concentrate on preparing students for roles in research and teaching, predominantly within higher education.

What exactly is a Doctorate in Education (EdD) degree?

The Doctor of Education (EdD) is a distinctive, applied doctoral program in the field of Education. Typically, it comprises a set of instructional modules combined with an independent research period aimed at creating an original doctoral dissertation. Pursuing an EdD equips education professionals with research competencies and fosters career advancement.

Fundamentally, this degree signifies the pinnacle of educational achievement available in the field of Education. While an EdD is comparable to a PhD, there exist significant differences between the two degrees.

Type	Professional doctorate
Subjects	Education
Length	3-5 years (full time) / 5-8 years (part time)
Availability	UK, USA & Worldwide

Can I become a teacher with an EdD?

It is critical to understand that an Education Doctorate does not serve as initial teacher training (candidates generally come with prior education experience). Those wishing to become teachers should explore a PGCE or other postgraduate teaching qualifications.

What is the cost of a Doctorate in Education?

Tuition fees for an EdD program can differ by institution and are often slightly higher than those for PhDs. UK students should anticipate costs of £2,500-3,000 annually for part-time programs, with full-time programs typically incurring higher fees.

There are no specific funding options dedicated solely to Education Doctorates. However, you might find other types of doctoral funding available, including:

• UK doctoral loans – EdD programs (along with other professional doctorates) qualify for PhD loans, allowing UK students to borrow up to £27,265 to support their doctoral studies.

• Project funding – Generally, Doctor of Education degrees are awarded through broad educational initiatives. Nonetheless, particular projects may offer funding opportunities. Advertised PhD projects can be found on platforms like FindAPhD.

• University scholarships – Some universities might provide general funding for selected students in their doctoral programs (including EdD courses). Checking the funding options available at your chosen institution is advised.

• Research Council funding – UK Research Councils provide studentships for doctoral candidates. Occasionally, such financial assistance may also extend to professional doctorates.

• Employer sponsorship – Enrolling in an EdD could significantly enhance your professional capabilities and position you for advanced roles in the education arena. While it’s not guaranteed, your current or future employer may recognize the value of this qualification and support your educational pursuits.

It’s important to be aware that Doctorates in Education typically do not qualify for teaching training funding, as these courses do not lead to licensure for the teaching profession.

What is the framework of an EdD?

EdD programs can be pursued through in-person classes or online. Generally, you will engage in necessary coursework, sit for preliminary examinations, and finalize a dissertation.

General courses cover:

• Curriculum design
• Assessment strategies
• Educational technology
• Professional expertise
• Data management and evaluation

Doctorate in Education concentrations

As a doctoral candidate, you will participate in classes tied to your chosen concentration. This focus enables you to tailor your educational experience or delve into a particular interest area within the field. For example, if your aim is to take on the role of a school principal, pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership would be fitting. Alternatively, if you plan to work in inner-city educational settings, you might consider a concentration in urban education.

The following are common specializations found in an EdD program:

• Curriculum and instruction: Get ready for positions such as a curriculum expert, program manager, or subject area specialist.

• Education leadership: Acquire the expertise necessary to become a school principal, chief learning officer, superintendent, or policy maker.

• Instructional design: Discover how to implement curriculum theories in educational initiatives that cater to diverse learner needs, enabling you to work as a curriculum expert or program assessor.

• Learning design: Understand how to improve educational settings and assist educators by utilizing instructional design methodologies.

• Multicultural education: Center your studies around the requirements of diverse students to prepare for a role in public schooling, governmental and community organizations, or consultancy firms.

• Special education: Acquire the necessary expertise to manage initiatives aimed at learners with special needs.

• Urban education: Get ready for involvement in school governance, community collaboration, and educational initiatives for learners in urban settings.

Doctorate in Education admissions requirements

To gain entry into a doctorate of education program, you typically need to submit an application, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a curriculum vitae, and partake in an interview. These prerequisites can differ across institutions. For instance, some institutions may require a specified minimum score on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), whereas others might forgo this demand.

Standard prerequisites include filling out the graduate school application or having completed a master’s degree from an accredited institution. You may also be expected to provide the following documentation:

• Application: Many educational institutions provide the application process online.

• Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume: A CV and resume encompass information such as your employment history, educational qualifications, and competencies. Typically, CVs are more extensive and detailed than resumes, featuring your publications, accolades, memberships in professional organizations, and other pertinent details related to your journey as a doctoral candidate.

• GRE score report: It may be necessary for you to submit a copy of your GRE score report to the institution. When taking the GRE, you have the option to designate up to four institutions to receive your results. Following the test, score reports can be requested for an additional charge.

• Letters of recommendation: Seek out individuals who can articulate your communication abilities, work ethic, and skills to compose letters of recommendation for you.

• Sealed transcripts: A transcript is an official record from the educational institutions you have attended, detailing the courses completed, the grades received, your cumulative grade point average, and your degree. Some institutions accept unofficial transcripts at the application stage, expecting that you will later submit official transcripts sent directly from the schools after your admission into a program.

• Statement of purpose: Your statement of purpose serves as a writing sample that enables you to express your skills and interests, your motivation for pursuing graduate studies, and your plans after graduation.

Doctorate in education jobs: What options exist for those with a Doctorate in Education?

• Possessing an EdD opens various career paths in both public and private education, as well as in the business sector. Individuals with this degree often seek leadership positions within various organizations. They may take on roles such as trainers, executives, consultants, and policy makers—professions that leverage their expertise in education, data evaluation, assessment practices, and mentoring. The following list provides an overview of salary ranges and potential job types available to those with a Doctor of Education.

College or university professor

Salary: $84,380

As a faculty member at a college or university, you will create curriculum and lessons specific to your area of expertise. Additionally, you may engage in writing books or publishing research articles to enhance your academic stature. Many professors also guide students or work in related fields, such as a psychology professor who may concurrently run a private counseling practice.

Corporate executive

Salary: $103,840

In a leadership role within a corporation, you will set objectives, policies, and operational guidelines for your organization. Your specific responsibilities can differ based on the size and sector of the company. With a Doctor of Education, you might serve as a chief learning officer, facilitating professional growth and skill development among employees.

Instructional coordinator

Salary: $74,620

As an instructional coordinator, your role will include developing and assessing the efficacy of the curriculum and teaching methods utilized by school districts. This position entails being a curriculum expert who evaluates teachers, interprets student data, and collaborates with various stakeholders. Additionally, you may take charge of training educators in the application of learning standards and effective pedagogical techniques in classrooms.

Postsecondary education administrator

Salary: $102,610

In the role of a postsecondary education administrator, your focus is on managing a college or university’s administration. The exact responsibilities you handle will vary based on your position and the institution you are affiliated with. You might contribute to the formulation of academic policies, hire faculty, organize course schedules, coordinate graduation events, and provide guidance to students.

School district administrator

Salary: $111,020

As a school district administrator, you serve as the primary executive for the school district, overseeing its comprehensive functioning. Your tasks may involve developing and assessing budgets, setting objectives and tracking advancements towards those goals, and fostering connections with stakeholders, which could include parents, students, and members of the local community.

School principal

Salary: $103,460

In the capacity of a school principal, you hold responsibility for the running of an elementary, middle, or high school. Your responsibilities encompass supervising staff members, managing school events and finances, and ensuring a secure atmosphere for students. Principals are employed in both public and private educational institutions and generally operate throughout the entire year.