Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs
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A doctoral degree in education can mean new job opportunities and a higher earning potential. But is a doctorate in education the right choice for you?
Ed.D. programs aim to equip you with a unique mix of practical leadership tools and education experience, which may appeal to you if you're looking to advance to a leadership role in education. With a doctorate, you could become a principal or a university administrator.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If that sounds like the kind of career you want, this degree might be the best fit. If you're considering an online doctorate in education, here's what to do next:
- Explore this page to determine whether this path is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online doctorate in education programs, as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for your schedule, pocketbook, and career goals.
What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.)?
A doctorate in education is the highest degree in the field. With a doctorate in education, you'll meet the education requirements for jobs like college provost, college professor, school principal, and school district superintendent. You'll also be qualified to pursue executive roles in academia or research.
Featured Online Doctorate of Education Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Why Should You Get an Online Doctorate in Education?
Considering a doctorate in education? After earning a master's degree, you might wonder whether an Ed.D. is worth it. If you want to work in high-level education roles, like provost or superintendent, then this degree will provide you with the necessary practical skills and leadership training.
A doctoral degree in education also boosts your earning potential. Educators with an Ed.D. report an average salary of $84,000 per year compared to $63,000 with an M.Ed., according to February 2022 Payscale data. And online programs make it easier to earn your doctorate.
Benefits of a Doctorate in Education
- Gain assessment, research, and strategic planning skills, with a focus on leadership abilities.
- Move into high-paying roles like school principal, superintendent, or college administrator.
- Advance in your current field with doctoral-level leadership skills and hands-on experience.
- Pursue specialized roles with a concentration in adult education, community college leadership, or education policy.
Reasons to Get Your Graduate Degree Online
- Online doctoral programs in education focus on flexibility, with many using an asynchronous class format.
- You can attend a top-ranked program that matches your interests without relocating or leaving your job.
- You may save money by comparing online programs based on cost and choosing an affordable Ed.D. program.
- You can work while earning your education doctorate to keep your income.
Is a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) Degree Worth It?
A doctorate in education can help you advance your career in educational leadership. You can pursue an Ed.D. — typically in less time and at a more affordable cost than a Ph.D. — to prepare for a high-paying education administration career.
"Yes, but your heart has to be in it. Don't go for the degree just for a salary bump. It's a lot of work in a fascinating and rapidly changing environment."
— Andrew Ward, M.Ed., Ph.D.
"For many individuals, [an Ed.D. program] is an excellent way to immerse themselves in a deep grounding in education and get exposure to high-level mentorship from professors and dissertation advisors."
— Rebecca Mannis, Ed.M., Ph.D., Learning Specialist
How Much Money Can You Make With a Doctorate of Education?
Median annual earnings with a doctoral degree (based on usual weekly earnings)
$99,270
Average base salary with a doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree
$84,000
Median annual wage for postsecondary teachers
$79,640
You might assume that when you sign up to work as an educator, or a postsecondary teacher specifically, you're also signing up for a lifetime of low pay. But that's not exactly the case.
"As a consultant in the private sector, [you] can easily make $200k+. As a school administrator (principal/headmaster), [you can make] over $82,000."
— Andrew Ward, M.Ed., Ph.D.
Your salary will depend on your occupation, location, and employer. Some of the most popular specializations include educational administration, instructional technology leadership, and interdisciplinary studies.
What Are the Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs of 2023?
Compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
How We Rank Schools
In order to create our directory list of doctorate in education programs, the BestColleges Rankings Team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We identified five schools that qualify for our alphabetical list based on the following criteria:
*Each school must be an accredited public or private nonprofit institution.
*Each school must offer a doctoral degree program in the given subject.
*Each school must submit an annual report to NCES.
Review our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more about the standards we uphold.
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online
100% Online or Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $790
Out of State | $790
Credits to Graduate
90
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Become a scholarly practitioner with an Ed.D. from ASU. The online education doctorate in leadership and innovation trains leaders who will transform students' learning. The cohort-based program offers a hybrid and fully online option.
Application requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA and a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution. The program also asks for three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, an academic writing sample, and a resume.
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,140
Out of State | $1,140
Credits to Graduate
51
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
A private Christian college in California, APU offers several online doctoral programs. The higher education leadership Ed.D. program uses a cohort model and offers flexibility for working professionals. The program also incorporates a one-week summer residency and monthly face-to-face sessions to connect with faculty and classmates.
You need a regionally accredited master's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA to apply. The program also requires two letters of recommendation, a writing sample, a resume, and a letter of intent.
Baylor University
Waco, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,785
Out of State | $1,785
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Engage with classmates during live sessions and conduct guided research in Baylor's Ed.D. program. The online doctorate in education focuses on learning and organizational change. You'll attend two on-campus immersions on the Texas campus and complete a capstone dissertation based on your career goals.
You can apply with a master's degree, official transcripts, and a resume. Baylor also asks for three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a video interview.
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $607
Out of State | $607
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
With a doctorate from IWU, you'll gain leadership and research skills. The online doctor of education in educational leadership offers a unique doctoral completion option for transfer students who have completed their doctoral coursework and need to finish a dissertation. You can also take courses through the fully online doctoral program.
You must hold a master's degree in education or a related field to apply. The program also requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least three years of experience in education. You'll also need two letters of recommendation.
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,720
Out of State | $1,720
Credits to Graduate
54 credits
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Train as an educational practitioner-scholar at Johns Hopkins. The online doctor of education program teaches you how to apply evidence-based practices and improve learning outcomes. You'll also gain leadership skills.
The program requires an accredited master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Johns Hopkins also asks for a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a professional practice essay. Candidates complete an online interview to gain entry into the program.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $595
Out of State | $595
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
A private Christian university, Liberty offers online degrees in dozens of fields. The online doctorate in education program offers concentrations in curriculum development, educational leadership, and higher education administration. The capstone project emphasizes research-based solutions to challenges in education.
To apply, you'll need an accredited master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You'll also submit official transcripts and an admission application. Liberty lets you transfer up to 50% of the credits required for the doctorate.
Marymount University
Arlington, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Primarily Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,190
Out of State | $1,190
Credits to Graduate
48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Strengthen your leadership and innovation skills with an Ed.D. from Marymount. The online doctorate in educational leadership and organizational innovation prepares graduates to promote change in schools and other organizations.
For your dissertation, you'll have to identify innovative solutions to a key issue in education. You'll also work closely with a faculty advisor to conduct research and apply theory in practice.
As part of the application process, you'll complete an interview with a faculty member. Marymount also requires a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution and three years of work experience.
Northcentral University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $976
Out of State | $976
Credits to Graduate
48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
With 16 specialization options, NCU's doctorate in education lets you customize your degree. The online education doctoral program includes unique options like trauma-informed education practices, global training and development, and learning analytics. Or, you can choose the general education concentration to pursue a broad course of study.
NCU emphasizes decision-making, policy development, and leadership in its Ed.D. concentrations. The program requires a graduate degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution for admission.
Northeastern University Lifelong Learning Network
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $969
Out of State | $969
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | New England Commission of Higher Education
Northeastern offers five concentrations in its doctor of education program. During the online doctorate in education, you'll take classes online while completing brief residencies in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.
You'll be able to choose from focus areas in higher education administration, school leadership, workplace learning, teaching and learning, and integrative studies. You can start your dissertation in practice early in the program, which will structure your research.
Application requirements include academic transcripts, an admission statement, a resume, and three recommendation letters. The program also asks for three years in a field related to education.
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,505
Out of State | $1,505
Credits to Graduate
55
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
At NSU, you can specialize your education doctorate by choosing from seven concentrations. The online doctorate in education program offers focus areas in educational leaders, higher education leadership, and organizational leadership. You can also study curriculum and teaching, instructional technology and distance education, reading, or special education.
You'll choose between an applied dissertation or a strategic research project as the final capstone requirement. You can apply to the program with transcripts and an online application.
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $590
Out of State | $590
Credits to Graduate
108 quarter credits
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
The hybrid Ed.D. program at Oregon State blends in-person and online coursework. During the adult and higher education doctorate in education program, you'll take weekend courses in Portland in addition to online classes. During the program, you'll gain skills to prepare you for leadership roles in higher education.
The program requires at least three years of experience at a college or university, plus a master's degree. Application requirements include a resume, a writing sample, and three letters of reference.
The University of Findlay
Findlay, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $540
Out of State | $540
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Located in Ohio, Findlay is a private Christian university that offers several online graduate programs. The doctorate in education program strengthens research, policy-making, and communication skills. Learn about information literacy, strategic planning, and policy analysis while earning a doctorate.
The program requires a master's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You'll also have to submit MAT scores and two letters of recommendation. The College of Education faculty conducts interviews with prospective students.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $700
Out of State | $775
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
If you already have K-12 leadership experience, UT Knoxville's educational leadership program can help you move into district or state leadership roles. The online doctorate in educational leadership builds on your experience to train practitioner-scholars.
You'll get to study educational policy, curriculum enhancement, and instructional programs while receiving one-on-one support throughout your doctorate. You must have a bachelor's degree and a minimum 2.7 GPA or a master's degree with a minimum 3.3. GPA to apply.
Touro University Nevada
Henderson, NV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $650
Out of State | $650
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
Gain administrative and leadership skills during an online doctorate in education at TUN. The doctorate in administration and leadership develops advocacy, policy, and community engagement skills. Early in the program, you'll partner with faculty to begin the dissertation project.
The program requires a master's degree in any field with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program also asks for two letters of recommendation and a personal essay. During the admission process, you'll complete a virtual interview.
University of Dayton
Dayton, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,425
Out of State | $1,425
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
UD offers immersive online programs. The online doctorate in education in leadership for organizations trains graduates to lead mission-driven organizations. The immersive program blends research and hands-on experience. You'll collaborate with classmates and complete a practice-focused dissertation to build advanced skills.
The program includes two in-person immersions. You must hold a master's degree and submit a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. GRE scores are optional.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $500
Out of State | $500
Credits to Graduate
64
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Study digital media, training, and education while earning a doctorate from Illinois. The learning design and leadership doctorate bridges teaching and learning development. Designed for educators and learning development professionals, you'll learn how to design engaging learning environments and improve the learning process.
You need a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program also requests an academic statement of purpose, a personal statement, a resume, and three letters of reference. You are also strongly encouraged to submit a scholarly writing sample.
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $519
Out of State | $519
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Take live, online classes to interact with classmates and professors at Southern Miss. The online educational administration doctorate prioritizes collaboration and schedules classes at night to fit the schedule of working graduate students. Solve hands-on challenges while gaining decision-making and leadership skills.
The program requires three years of teaching experience. You'll need to submit official transcripts, standardized test scores, a statement of purpose, a resume, three letters of recommendation, and a current educator license.
University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $337
Out of State | $537
Credits to Graduate
44
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
School administrators can move into top-level leadership roles with an online doctorate in education from UW. The educational leadership doctorate emphasizes applied research. You'll strengthen hands-on skills during the superintendent internship and complete an applied research project for the dissertation requirement.
Already hold a master's degree? You can apply 30 credits toward the Ed.D. at UW. The program requires two years of experience as a school administrator and GRE scores.
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,169
Out of State | $2,169
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Vanderbilt's Peabody College offers online graduate degrees in education and human development. The leadership and learning in organizations doctorate in education program helps mid-career professionals implement change in leadership roles.
You'll strengthen management, communication, and assessment skills while learning data analytics tools. You'll also learn how to improve workplace operations by resolving real-world organizational challenges.
You need at least three years of leadership experience. In addition to an accredited bachelor's degree, you'll need at least 30 credits at the graduate level. The program strongly encourages the submission of GRE or GMAT scores.
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $589
Out of State | $1,525
Credits to Graduate
87
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Interested in higher education? Then consider WVU's doctorate in education in higher education administration. The degree can lead to administrative, research, and policy roles at the college level.
During the degree, you can focus on academic affairs, administration, or assessment. You can also create your own specialization. You'll study in a hybrid format with online and on-campus courses. The program requires a minimum 2.75 GPA and a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
How Much Does a Doctorate of Education Degree Cost?
A doctorate of education degree can increase your salary. But how much does it cost? According to the NCES, the average annual tuition cost of a graduate degree in 2021 was $12,394 at public four-year schools.
However, the answer mostly depends on the school and the program. Public schools charge lower tuition rates, for example. With an online program, you can also choose a more affordable option. And make sure to ask schools about financial aid opportunities.
Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Graduate Degree | 2020-2021
Public Institution
$12,394
Private Institution
$26,621
Average Total Cost of a Ph.D. | 2020-2021
Average Annual Total Cost
$32,846
Average Total Cost Between 4-8 Years
$131,000-$263,000
How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Education Online?
Most doctorate in education programs take 2-3 years of full-time study to complete. However, some programs, especially Ph.D. in education programs, can take up to five years to finish.
Course Credits Required for Ed.D.
60 credits
Field Study Requirements (Y/N)
*Yes
*Depending on your program and specialization
What Jobs Can I Get With A Doctorate in Education?
Postsecondary teacher School superintendent Dean of students Provost Principal |
University registrar Department chair University president Academic researcher |
With a doctorate in education, you qualify for leadership roles in K-12 education and higher education. Many principals and school superintendents hold a doctorate, for example. At the postsecondary level, college professors and administrators often need a doctorate.
An Ed.D. can lead to careers as an academic or administrative dean, provost, or university president. Other roles include researcher, education consultant, policy-maker, or training manager.
"The Ed.D. degree enables you to be an effective administrator, researcher, advanced trainer, and/or consultant."
— Andrew Ward, M.Ed., Ph.D.
"[An Ed.D.] is the highest-level degree that is offered for people who aspire to leadership roles in education administration, such as being superintendents of a school district or a head of [a] school."
— Rebecca Mannis, Ed.M., Ph.D., Learning Specialist
Admissions Requirements for a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) Program
You'll need to meet the education doctorate admission requirements before you apply to programs. In addition to a master's degree, programs often ask for standardized test scores, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose. Check out our graduate admissions guide for more.
A master's degree from an accredited college or university Valid GRE exam scores Transcripts 2-3 letters of recommendation |
A resume 2-4 references A minimum 3.0 GPA An admissions interview A statement of purpose |
What Are the Different Types of Doctoral Degrees in Education?
Schools offer several varieties of doctoral degrees in education. The most common are a doctor of education (Ed.D.), a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in education, and an education specialist (Ed.S.). Colleges may offer one or more of these options to doctoral candidates.
Although an Ed.D. and a Ph.D. in education are both terminal degrees in the field, each is suited for a different career path. You should consider a program based on your career goals.
Still looking for the right fit? You might also like:
Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) Programs
Do you need a certificate or license to work as a college professor?
No, college professors do not need a certificate or license. While K-12 teachers at public schools often need a teaching license, educators may qualify for professor jobs with a doctorate.
For example, a doctorate in education meets the requirements for education professor jobs. Similarly, higher education administrators like deans do not need a certificate or license. Instead of a license, a graduate degree meets the requirements for college administrator jobs.
Do all doctorate in education programs require a master's degree?
Nearly all doctoral programs in education require a master's degree for admission. That's because an Ed.D. builds on the knowledge and skills gained during a master's program.
A master's degree also demonstrates that you can succeed at the graduate level.
However, a few programs admit applicants with a bachelor's degree. These programs typically require a higher credit load to earn a doctorate.
Do all doctorate in education programs require a dissertation?
Most education doctoral programs include a dissertation. However, some programs require a capstone project rather than a dissertation. Typically, doctoral candidates conduct research in their focus area, which can include gathering surveys, interviews, and other data sources.
Candidates then write and defend a dissertation. In contrast, a capstone project may focus on applied skills, like developing a policy or program. Doctoral candidates must pass their dissertation or capstone project to graduate.
