EdD - Doctor of Education

  • Cost $112
  • 350 (average)

COURSE FORMAT

About

The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) is a doctoral-level degree focusing on the application of research and foundational knowledge to real-world educational settings. This degree is designed for education professionals aspiring to advanced leadership roles in schools, districts, higher education institutions, or other educational organizations. The Ed.D. emphasizes the practical application of research to improve educational practices and policies.

Eligibility

  • A master's degree in education or related field from an accredited institution

    • GPA requirement is typically 3.0 or higher

  • Professional experience in education or a related area

  • Additional requirements may include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, curriculum vitae or resume and satisfactory scores on graduate admissions tests

  • A strong application that gains acceptance into a Doctor of Education program

  • May also need to pass an interview process

Completion Time: Typically about 3 years (full-time) or 4 to 7 years (part-time)

Cost: Average cost $112,350

Course Format

Program Format:

  • The Ed.D. program typically includes coursework in educational leadership, policy analysis, curriculum development, and educational research methods.

  • A significant component of the program is a dissertation or capstone project that contributes to the field of education through applied research.

  • Educational programs may be offered full-time or part-time and may include on-campus, online, or hybrid course options

  • The Ed.D. is an academic degree and doesn’t directly confer licensure or certification

Renewal

Not applicable

Related Certifications

  • Academic Novice Educator (CNEn)

  • Certified Nurse Educator (CNE)

  • Certified Academic Clinical Nurse Educator (CNEcl)

Was this page helpful?

Frequently asked questions

Why should nurses pursue a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree?

Earning a Doctor of Education in Nursing Education helps further the careers of nurses with a master's degree who want to become nurse educators in either academic or staff development settings.

What other certifications should I consider after getting the Doctor of Education (EdD) degree?

After obtaining the Doctor of Education (EdD) degree, you might also pursue the Academic Novice Educator (CNEn), the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) and the Certified Academic Clinical Nurse Educator (CNEcl).

What is a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree?

An Doctor of Education (EdD) is an advanced degree in the education field that prepares graduates to succeed in leadership roles in higher education.

What settings does an educator with a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree work in?

Educators with a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree can work in various settings, including elementary, secondary, or post-secondary administration, serving in such roles as college dean or school district superintendent.

What is the difference between the Doctor of Education (EdD) degree and the Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS)?

An Doctor of Education (EdD) is an advanced degree in the education field that prepares graduates to succeed in leadership roles in higher education. The Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS, DSN, DNSc, or DScN.) is an academic doctorate degree that, like the Ph.D. in nursing, is grounded in research and theory. Today, most colleges and universities are discontinuing the DNS degree in favor of the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing degree.