Best Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership Programs of 2023
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- A doctorate in educational leadership leads to high-level roles, better pay, and prestige.
- Positions in educational leadership include superintendent, principal, and president.
- BestColleges research shows that the average Ph.D. program costs $32,846 annually.
It's no coincidence that the people in charge of our education systems and organizations are often the most educated and experienced.
For example, many college presidents have doctoral degrees. It makes sense, too. To take on an influential role in education and be in a position to make a difference, you need the credentials.
A doctorate in educational leadership is one way to break through to become a leader in education, in student affairs, and at nonprofit organizations.
Is a Doctorate in Educational Leadership Worth It?
Yes. A doctorate in educational leadership is worth it. Why? It has a solid return on investment, leads to better-paying jobs, and can help you ascend to leadership roles in academia.
You'll gain the skills, competencies, and connections needed to access influential positions across the education sector. It can open the door to higher-level jobs with greater earning potential.
Perhaps most importantly, you'll be equipped with all the theories, research, and practices to make a meaningful impact where you work.
Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. vs. Ed.S.: What's the Difference?
There are a few key differences between an Ed.D., Ph.D., and Ed.S.:
- Ed.D.: An Ed.D focuses on giving students the knowledge they can immediately apply in a professional setting. Most Ed.D. programs are designed to take three years to complete.
- Ph.D.: A Ph.D. is more research-oriented and rigorous than an Ed.D. due to the number of credits required.
- Ed.S.: An Ed.S. is not a doctorate degree and is even more career-focused than an Ed.D.
Educational Leadership Doctorate Online for You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Why Should I Get an Online Educational Leadership Doctorate?
An online doctorate in educational leadership program gives you expert knowledge that can help you grow professionally. It also provides the flexibility to balance work, school, and other responsibilities.
Benefits of an Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership
- Advance to senior leadership roles
- Increase your earning potential
- Level up skills and connections
- Work across the education sector
Reasons to Get Your Doctorate in Educational Leadership Online
- Keep working while you earn your degree
- Save time on commuting
- Learn from a place of comfort, like home
- Choose a program that fits your learning style
Best Online PhD in Educational Leadership Programs of 2023
Compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
How We Selected the Best Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership Programs
We are committed to helping students find the program that best fits their needs, and we know that is different for every student. To help students get started with their search, we feature the top online doctorate in educational leadership programs in alphabetical order. To learn more about our different rankings, read our ranking methodology.
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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Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $767
Out of State | $767
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
American University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online with Three Residencies | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,812
Out of State | $1,812
Credits to Graduate
40
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $304
Out of State | $1,138
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Arizona State University
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $554
Out of State | $554
Credits to Graduate
90
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $440
Out of State | $440
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Baylor University
Waco, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online with Two Residencies | 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
Belhaven University
Jackson, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online with Two Residencies | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $595
Out of State | $595
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Primarily Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $592
Out of State | $988
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
California University of Pennsylvania
California, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $568
Out of State | $851
Credits to Graduate
57
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online with One Residency | Primarily Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $828
Out of State | $828
Credits to Graduate
63-66
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Clemson University
Clemson, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $521
Out of State | $645
Credits to Graduate
64
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Concordia University-Irvine
Irvine, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,015
Out of State | $1,015
Credits to Graduate
46
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,396
Out of State | $1,396
Credits to Graduate
60-61.5 quarter credits
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Edgewood College
Madison, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,072
Out of State | $1,072
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Evangel University
Springfield, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $600
Out of State | $600
Credits to Graduate
50
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $444
Out of State | $1,076
Credits to Graduate
69
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Valley, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,076
Out of State | $1,076
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $822
Out of State | $822
Credits to Graduate
54-57
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Keiser University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $14,680
Out of State | $14,680
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Moorhead, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online with Two Residencies | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $690
Out of State | $690
Credits to Graduate
72
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $817
Out of State | $817
Credits to Graduate
44
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
New England College
Henniker, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $685
Out of State | $685
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | New England Commission of Higher Education
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NM - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $444
Out of State | $444
Credits to Graduate
63-78
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,101
Out of State | $2,101
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Northcentral University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $450
Out of State | $450
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
Oakland University
Rochester Hills, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $839
Out of State | $1,027
Credits to Graduate
76
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $516
Out of State | $568
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Southeastern Louisiana University
Hammond, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $475
Out of State | $475
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Southern Nazarene University
Bethany, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $699
Out of State | $699
Credits to Graduate
57
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
St. Thomas University
Miami Gardens, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $777
Out of State | $777
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $600
Out of State | $1,008
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes)
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $509
Out of State | $775
Credits to Graduate
63
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tennessee State University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $533
Out of State | $1,115
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $313
Out of State | $721
Credits to Graduate
66
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $440
Out of State | $440
Credits to Graduate
72
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $625
Out of State | $625
Credits to Graduate
63
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online with Three Residencies | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $438
Out of State | $438
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
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
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $449
Out of State | $449
Credits to Graduate
90
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $716
Out of State | $716
Credits to Graduate
42
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND - 4 years
- Online
100% Online with Two Residencies | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $760
Out of State | $760
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $606
Out of State | $606
Credits to Graduate
54
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Primarily Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $357
Out of State | $750
Credits to Graduate
108
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $262
Out of State | $1,061
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online and Hybrid | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $470
Out of State | $470
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $419
Out of State | $419
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | 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
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Primarily Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $707
Out of State | $707
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Wilkes University
Wilkes-Barre, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Low Residency | Scheduled Classes and Three Residencies
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $799
Out of State | $799
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
William Woods University
Fulton, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $750
Out of State | $750
Credits to Graduate
25
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Xavier University of Louisiana
New Orleans, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $464
Out of State | $464
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
How Much Does an Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership Program Cost?
You could pay anywhere from $30,000-$186,000 for an online doctorate in educational leadership. The cost depends on how many years it takes you to earn your degree.
For example, BestColleges research shows that the average Ph.D. costs $32,846 annually. If it took four years to finish a Ph.D., the total cost would be $131,384. An Ed.D. program is usually less expensive because it typically takes less time to complete than a Ph.D.
Tuition Cost of a Doctoral Degree
Total Cost Range of a Ph.D. Program
$93,000-$186,000
Total Cost Range of an Ed.D. Program
$30,000-$120,000
Read More:
How Long Does It Take to Earn an Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership?
A doctoral program in educational leadership can take two to eight years to complete. The length of time depends on many factors, including the program design, subject matter, and the institution.
An Ed.D program is usually much shorter than a Ph.D. program, typically 2-3 years. Students often take 4-8 years to earn a Ph.D.
Students can finish faster if they're full time, but online students usually study part time so they can keep working. An accelerated degree program can speed up the time it takes to earn a doctoral degree to 2-3 years.
Average Length of Time*
6 years
*Varies depending on your school/program
Required Course Credits*
60-120 credits
*Varies depending on your school/program
What Are the Admission Requirements for Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership?
The admission criteria vary for each school. Some require successful completion of coursework in a related field, while others demand a certain level of professional experience.
When you submit your application to an online doctorate in educational leadership program, be prepared for any of the following criteria:
- A master's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university
- Overall grade point average of 3.0 or higher
- Professional knowledge and experience that applies to educational leadership
How Much Money Can I Make With a Doctorate in Educational Leadership?
Average base salary for school superintendent
$136,650
Source: Payscale, January 2023
What Jobs Can You Get With a Doctorate in Educational Leadership?
A doctorate in educational leadership program can prepare you for a wide range of educational leadership and senior management roles. You can leverage your degree across the education sector to find a job that suits you.
For example, you can be a school district superintendent or an elementary school principal. You can also become the president or executive director of an educational nonprofit.
Job Title | Average Salary |
---|---|
School Superintendent | $136,650 |
Executive Director | $111,350 |
Dean of Students | $90,830 |
Department Chair (College/University) | $88,340 |
Elementary School Principal | $78,890 |
PhD in Educational Leadership Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
Everything Else You Need to Know About an Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership Program?
You'll explore key concepts in education, leadership, and management in an online doctorate in educational leadership program. A few examples of classes include:
- Trends and issues in K-12 education: Learn about the latest leadership strategies and trending teaching practices in K-12 education.
- Strategic planning and change: Find out the impact of leadership and the effects of strategies within an organization.
- Ethical dilemmas and stewardship: Examine how ethics, principles, and theories apply to the study and practice of leadership.
Is an Ed.D. as respected as a Ph.D.?
A Ph.D. generally has more prestige than an Ed.D. because it can be harder to earn. A Ph.D. program has more in-depth research requirements and takes more credits to earn than an Ed.D. It also takes up to eight years to complete, while an Ed.D. usually takes about three years.