Advanced education has the power to transform not only your career, but also the systems and communities you serve. For educators and professionals committed to improving teaching and learning, earning a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) offers a path to becoming a leader in curriculum design, policy development and organizational change.
The online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) helps you gain the expertise to shape educational outcomes while providing the flexibility to balance your studies with professional and personal responsibilities. This rigorous yet accessible program empowers experienced educators to advance their careers in curriculum development, instructional leadership or educational administration while maintaining their current professional commitments.
Why Pursue an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction Online?
Pursuing an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction teaches you advanced knowledge in instructional design, research and leadership. According to a study published in Impacting Education, students pursuing an Ed.D. degree are often described as “knowledge-seekers, change agents, activists, and applied researchers.” These are individuals who are driven to make positive changes in their community.
Another report from Impacting Education emphasizes how Ed.D. programs prepare graduates to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring their work has a measurable impact on schools, communities and policy. The ULM program develops students’ abilities to analyze complex educational challenges, design data-driven interventions and advocate for meaningful changes that improve learning environments.
This degree also offers flexibility for working professionals. By completing your coursework online, you can keep working while preparing for new opportunities. This format allows you to apply what you are learning in real time, ensuring your academic growth immediately benefits your workplace and the communities you serve.
Career Opportunities With an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
An Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction opens doors to high-level roles in education. Graduates often pursue positions such as superintendent, education administrator, director of curriculum and instruction, instructional coordinator and university professor. These roles allow you to lead organizations, design effective curricula and influence policy.
The earning potential for these careers is significant. For example, in 2024 the median salary for postsecondary education administrators was $103,960 per year, while postsecondary teachers earned a median annual salary of $83,980 and instructional coordinators who design and oversee curriculum programs earned a median salary of $74,720 per year. These figures highlight the value of investing in your education to secure competitive roles in a growing field.
Contributing to Research and Educational Innovation
While career advancement is a central motivation for many students, pursuing an Ed.D. also positions graduates to make a lasting impact on the education system. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based decision-making, allowing you to engage in applied research that addresses current challenges in education. Whether you are interested in developing innovative curricula, improving instructional practices or influencing policy, this degree gives you the tools to turn your ideas into action.
The ULM program supports your growth as both a scholar and a practitioner. By engaging with current research and conducting your own studies, you can contribute to the advancement of education while expanding your professional expertise.
The Value of an Online Ed.D. Program
Choosing an online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction offers the convenience and flexibility many working professionals need. The format allows you to complete coursework on your own schedule without sacrificing the quality of instruction or access to faculty expertise.
Another advantage of an Ed.D. program (as opposed to a Ph.D. program) is that it is condensed, so candidates can pursue career advancement on an accelerated timeline. Online programs like ULM’s make advanced education more accessible, ensuring you can continue advancing your career while fulfilling other personal and professional responsibilities.
Advancing Your Career With an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
Earning an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction is an investment in your professional future. It provides you with the expertise to lead at the highest levels of education, from managing academic programs to shaping curriculum standards and policies. By combining rigorous academic study with practical application, this degree prepares you to meet the demands of complex educational environments.
Whether you’re an educator interested in qualifying for leadership roles or a specialist aiming to drive systemic change, this doctoral program offers you a flexible path to achieving your goals. If you are ready to elevate your career while making an impact, the University of Louisiana Monroe’s online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program provides the skills, knowledge and credentials you need to succeed.
Learn more about ULM’s online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction program.