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EdD Vs. PhD: Choosing the Right Doctoral Degree in Education

Deciding to pursue a doctoral degree in education marks a significant milestone in one’s academic and professional journey. However, prospective students often face the choice between two distinct terminal degrees: the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education.

Understanding the main differences between these programs and their respective professional applications is essential for making an informed decision. This article explores what each degree offers educators, depending on their interests, expectations and goals.

What Are the Main Differences Between an EdD and a PhD in Education?

The primary distinction between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D. in education lies in their focus and approach. Writing for Inside Higher Ed, DeWitt Scott explains how Ph.D. programs often emphasize research and career paths to faculty positions. Scott writes that “both the Ph.D. and Ed.D. require rigorous research and scholarship production, but the Ph.D. tends to focus more on these areas. Students pursuing a Ph.D. in education typically become scholars who spend much of their careers raising questions on best practices and outcomes for teaching and learning in K-12 and higher education settings.” Scott adds that while many Ed.D. graduates “become professors right out of graduate school, this tends to be a more common career path for Ph.D. recipients.”

Major advantages of an Ed.D. program include a focus on preparing for administrative roles, practical applications of program concepts, and being able to work full time during the program. Scott writes that Most Ed.D. programs — not all — focus specifically on preparing students to assume formal administrative leadership positions in educational institutions, school districts, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and the private sector.” In addition, Ed.D. students seek “solutions that are directly applicable at this moment to managing large, complex organizations.”

Relevant Careers for Each Degree Type

Prospective students should evaluate their career aspirations and professional goals when considering their degrees. For example, an Ed.D. may better suit educators seeking to drive systemic change and innovation within educational institutions.

Graduates of the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) ​​online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction program have the practical skills and expertise to lead initiatives, implement evidence-based practices and address complex challenges in educational settings. According to Indeed, this degree pathway is particularly appealing for individuals aspiring to roles such as school or district administrator, dean of student, education researcher, provost, college president, curriculum specialist or educational consultant.

On the other hand, a Ph.D. in Education opens doors to careers in academia, research and policy analysis. Those inclined towards scholarly pursuits, conducting original research and contributing to the theoretical underpinnings of education may find the Ph.D. path more aligned with their interests. Ph.D. graduates often pursue tenure-track faculty positions at universities, engage in rigorous research or influence educational policies through think tanks and governmental agencies.

Why Would an Educator Choose an EdD Over a PhD?

There are several compelling reasons why an educator might opt for an Ed.D. over a Ph.D. Firstly, Ed.D. programs offer a more direct pathway to impactful leadership roles in education. Specialized programs like ULM’s online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction provide candidates with targeted training and practical experiences tailored to their career objectives. With a focus on applied research and hands-on learning, graduates are well-prepared to tackle the complex challenges facing today’s educational landscape.

Moreover, the duration of Ed.D. programs is often more condensed than Ph.D. programs, allowing candidates to achieve their doctoral aspirations in a shorter timeframe. ULM’s online program, for instance, can be completed in as few as 24 months, providing a streamlined path to career advancement without compromising academic rigor.

Lastly, as pointed out by Iona Burnell and Jodi Roffey-Barentsen, writing for the British Educational Research Association (BERA), “A common theme across EdDs is that students enjoy meeting regularly – in person with the courses that are delivered on campus, and online with those delivered remotely. In their cohort group, they find that the interaction and regular meetings are inspirational and motivational.” Being with like-minded professionals can help one not only grow as a student but also begin to practice the social skills necessary to succeed in this profession.

Learn more about the ​University of Louisiana Monroe’s online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program.

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