An online Ph.D. in education may suit students who enjoy classroom teaching or prefer the field's administrative aspects. Educators help students develop their potential and learning style through cooperative learning, teamwork, projects, and individual work. Educational administrators provide direction and day-to-day management of educational institutions, including preschools and colleges. A doctoral education degree meets qualifications for both roles.
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, postsecondary education administrators and postsecondary teachers both earn higher than average salaries. The BLS projects 8% and 12% respective growth for these jobs during 2020-2030.
Our guide provides a ranking of the top online Ph.D. in education degrees to help prospective students choose the best fit for their career goals.
Ph.D. in Education Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Ph.D. in education worth it?
Yes, though it depends on students' career trajectories and preferences. Mid-career education professionals wanting to advance their salary may consider pursuing a Ph.D. in education.
What can you do with a Ph.D. in education?
An online Ph.D. in education satisfies the educational requirements for high-paying senior educational leadership positions. Graduates pursue careers as educational administrators, superintendents, and researchers. They can also work as college professors.
How long does it take to get a Ph.D. in education?
Ph.D. students pursuing an education degree full time spend about three years to earn a degree. The program involves two years of classes as well as research and a dissertation. However, program length can vary by school and students' enrollment status.
What is the difference between a Ph.D. and a doctorate?
"Doctorate" refers to an umbrella term for a degree or rank. A Ph.D. falls under the doctorate category.
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Why Get a Degree in Education?
Students can apply education theory and put it into practice with a Ph.D. in education. Learning these practices gives students credibility, upward mobility, and the technical expertise needed to specialize in the field.
A Ph.D. in education offers students the potential for high earnings. The highest-paid postsecondary education administrators earn almost $200,000 annually. However, salary depends on career choice and the type of educational institution where graduates choose to work.
Ph.D. students who opt for an online education degree can benefit from lower costs, classroom flexibility, and access to faculty. Students and faculty communicate through email, instant messaging, and video chat.
How Much Does an Education Degree Cost?
Online education degrees often cost less than on-campus programs. However, an online Ph.D. in education varies in cost. Tuition, books, online registration, and other fees might cost several thousands of dollars per year.
Tuition makes up the largest percentage of the cost of getting an online education degree. Learners should compare costs among online schools before committing to one institution. Online degree-seekers save on transportation expenses, school supplies, and housing.
Prospective students may want to research other opportunities to reduce debt. Many schools support doctoral students through tuition waivers and stipends.
How Much Do Education Graduates Make?
According to the BLS, postsecondary education administrators earn annual median salaries of $97,500. Postsecondary teachers earn a median salary of $80,560 annually.
An online Ph.D. in education, a terminal degree, offers the highest level of education in the field. However, learners may need to tap into continuing education and certifications to advance their careers and salary.
Specific specializations within a Ph.D. program may offer more lucrative opportunities. A Ph.D. in education with a specialization in education policy can lead to a role as a public policy analyst. Specializations include counseling education, curriculum studies, and educational linguistics.
Courses in Education
Learners typically complete about two years of coursework. They also complete research projects, exams, and a dissertation. Some programs may require an individualized research practicum, research assistantship, or a faculty research project.
Degree-seekers gain research and analytical skills. They can align their studies with their research interests and professional goals through specializations. Options include curriculum and instruction, educational psychology, and leadership.
Not all programs offer every course. The three listed below represent a sample curriculum.
Higher Education History and Philosophy
The class offers an in-depth view of the historical and philosophical development of U.S. higher education. Participants examine education through political, social, and cultura contexts over time. The course directly relates these educational concepts to learners in the field.Leadership and Organizational Theory
The course summarizes the current educational theories, concepts, and behaviors of effective leadership. Coursework helps learners develop their personal styles, values, and ethics as educators. Students develop a strategic plan for use in their careers.Advanced Educational Psychology
Important to those in the K-12 education system, the class covers the theory and research related to students' diverse learning needs. The course highlights practical applications for effective teaching.
Certifications and Licensure for Education
The following certifications and licensures enable students to become education leaders. Each credential features various requirements, including licensure exams. Students should learn their state's specific requirements.
Educational Testing Service (ETS) provides state assessments for superintendent licensure. These tests reflect the most current research on professional judgment and a set of standards for school leaders. The Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium (ISLLC) and the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL) set the standards.
ETS also offers the school leader licensure assessment to help states assess school leaders. The ISLLC and the PSEL also set the assessment factors for these tests.
The American Association of School Administrators (AASA) offers current superintendents a curriculum and professional learning opportunity ending with a capstone project. The capstone challenges current superintendents to analyze an existing district issue requiring intervention. The program connects superintendents to professional networks, helping them focus on key issues within their districts.
Scholarships for Education
Students pursuing a Ph.D. in education qualify for various scholarships from companies and professional organizations. Learners can also apply for institutional grants and scholarships.
Scholarships for Education
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
AASA Educational Administration Scholarship |
$2,500 |
The chair of the school of education can recommend currently enrolled students. Applicants must write three separate statements about superintendency as a career and submit a recommendation letter and two endorsement letters. Students must become a member of the AASA if awarded this scholarship. |
Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship |
$1,000 |
Graduate or undergraduate education majors at U.S. institutions may apply. Applicants submit transcripts and an essay about the problems of compulsory unionism in education. |
National Academy of Education/Spencer Dissertation Fellowship Program |
$27,500 |
Doctoral students at U.S. institutions demonstrating research experience and future potential in educational research may apply. An applicant's proposed project must involve an education research project. Fellows may not accept employment other than as described in the application. Group applications do not qualify. |
Online Ph.D. in Education
#1 Online Ph.D. In Education
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ball State University offers in-person doctorate programs on its campus in Muncie, Indiana, as well as online programs. Working professionals take advantage of the flexible program to earn their degree around their other commitments.
Pursuing a doctorate requires a large time commitment. students take required classes, pass exams, and write a research-based dissertation.
Ball State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting body.
Ball State University Numbers:
Average Price After Financial Aid: $13,533
Percentage of Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 91%
Percentage of Students Awarded Loans: 56%
Student Admission Rate: 77%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Ph.D. In Education
East Tennessee State University
- Johnson City, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Johnson City, Tennessee, East Tennessee State University enrolls students as a public institution. The school offers an online doctorate in . The doctoral program builds on the student's prior knowledge to strengthen advanced skills.
An online doctorate can help students pursue an advanced degree while maintaining a full-time job. Students considering the program can reach out to a faculty advisor to learn about any in-person requirements.
The terminal degree in childhood education prepares graduates for leadership roles in their field. Doctoral students typically complete their degree within five years. Graduates work in academic, research, or practice careers after completing the program.
East Tennessee State University Numbers:
In-state Graduate Tuition: $8,640
Out-of-state Graduate Tuition: $23,760
Admission Rate: 86%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Ph.D. In Education
Hampton University
- Hampton, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
An online doctoral degree from Hampton University helps professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. Employers value the graduate-level education and training of the doctor of philosophy in counselor education and supervision.
Students may receive credit for hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships. The institution's website provides details about how to earn credit for graduate-level experiential learning. To prepare for careers, degree-seekers can participate in networking events through student organizations.
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, a regional accrediting body.
Hampton University Facts:
Students Awarded Financial Aid: 96%
Students Receiving Loans: 66%
Acceptance Rate: 36%
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
11%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Ph.D. In Education
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Terre Haute, Indiana, Indiana State University offers on-campus and online programs as a public institution. The doctor of philosophy in educational administration trains graduates for advanced careers through a flexible learning format. The doctoral program builds on the student's prior knowledge to strengthen advanced skills.
A doctorate requires intensive studies. The online learning format helps graduate students balance school with other responsibilities. Doctoral students often arrange to complete in-person activities in their local areas.
As the terminal degree in , a doctorate represents the highest level of education in the field. Doctoral students generally spend 3-6 years earning their degree. After earning a doctorate, graduates work in academia, research, and practice.
Indiana State University Facts:
Total Online Doctoral Programs: 4
In-state Graduate Tuition: $7,542
Out-of-state Graduate Tuition: $14,814
Admission Rate: 90%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Ph.D. In Education
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers on-campus and online programs as a private institution. The school offers online doctoral programs in many academic and professional subjects, including a Ph.D. in education. Prospective applicants can contact the program for more information about admission requirements and start dates.
While a doctorate requires intensive study, the online format helps students balance their degree with other responsibilities. Students considering the program can reach out to a faculty advisor to learn about any in-person requirements.
A doctoral degree, the highest level of education builds expert-level knowledge. Most doctoral programs require 4-6 years of study, though the length varies depending on the program and the student's enrollment option. The degree leads to opportunities in academia, research, and practice.
Liberty University Numbers:
Total Online Doctoral Programs: 9
Graduate Tuition: $7,980
Average Cost per Credit: 750
Admission Rate: 51%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Ph.D. In Education
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Regent University offers on-campus and online programs as a private institution. Regent provides a flexible route to a doctorate in education. Prospective applicants can learn more about start dates, doctoral tracks, and admission requirements by contacting the program.
The online learning format helps doctoral students complete an advanced degree while working full time. Doctoral students often arrange to complete in-person activities in their local areas.
Doctoral students typically spend 4-6 years in school.
Regent University Facts:
Total Online Doctoral Programs: 12
Graduate Tuition: $15,552
Admission Rate: 86%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Ph.D. In Education
Texas Tech University
- Lubbock, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ph.D. in curriculum studies and teacher education students receive valuable knowledge and training for their careers.
Texas Tech University may award credit for internships and service-learning experiences. Students can explore the school’s website to learn how to earn credit for internships and graduate-level hands-on learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can join student organizations to network with other students and access professional development opportunities.
Texas Tech University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Texas Tech University at a Glance:
Grad Tuition Rate: $5,958 in-state; $13,428 out-of-state
Number of Online Master's Programs: 14
Online Doctorate Programs Offered: 1
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Ph.D. In Education
Union Institute & University
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Union Institute & University welcomes degree-seekers to its main campus in Cincinnati, Ohio. The school offers an online doctorate in interdisciplinary studies. Prospective applicants should contact the program to learn more about the admission requirements.
An online doctorate can help students pursue an advanced degree while maintaining a full-time job. The school offers academic advising, library access, and career counseling for distance-learning doctoral students.
A doctoral degree, the highest level of education in interdisciplinary studies, builds expert-level knowledge. Doctoral students generally earn their degree in 3-6 years. Graduates pursue careers in academia, research, or practice.
Union Institute & University At a Glance:
Graduate Tuition: $14,652
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8-to-1
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Online Ph.D. In Education
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
- Denver, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus is a public college based in Denver, Colorado. The online Ph.D. in education and human development prepares doctoral students for advanced roles in their field. Prospective applicants should contact the program to learn more about the admission requirements.
Designed for full-time professionals, the program makes it easier to balance school with work. Online doctoral students can visit campus to meet with fellow students or to walk at graduation.
The terminal degree in education and human development, a doctorate prepares graduates for leadership roles in their field. Most doctoral students complete their degree within five years. The program prepares learners for careers in academia, research, and practice.
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus At a Glance:
Total Online Doctoral Programs: 6
In-state Graduate Tuition: $6,786
Out-of-state Graduate Tuition: $22,590
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Ph.D. In Education
University of Northern Colorado
- Greeley, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Northern Colorado is a leader in e-learning. A doctoral degree from this school gives professionals the highest credential possible in their field.
Students first complete 1-3 years of coursework followed by dissertation research and exams. With a doctorate, graduates can pursue many different careers, including research and academic careers.
The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
University of Northern Colorado at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs Offered: 15
Number of Online Doctorate Programs: 3
Grad Tuition: $10,867 in-state; $19,620 out-of-state
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
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