phd online teaching

College of Professional Studies

Northeastern University’s online Doctor of Education program provides experienced adult learners, working professionals, and scholar-practitioners from diverse backgrounds and perspectives with the practical knowledge and experience they need to transform the learning landscape. Students gain innovative approaches to create authentic change in their communities. The program was selected as the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate's Program of the Year for 2022-2023.

The Doctor of Education program is designed to be completed in three to four years of study—following a fast-paced quarter system in lieu of a traditional semester format. Students choose from five concentrations to create a curriculum that matches personal and professional interests. The program's dissertation in practice process will begin at the onset of your coursework as you identify your problem of practice and develop an action plan—incorporating cycles of data collection and analysis, collaboration, change work, and reflection—culminating in the dissemination of your action research findings. Our students come from diverse disciplines and professions, seeking more than just a degree. You'll gain a practical education that translates to your everyday working environment.

While all EdD courses can be completed online (except for hybrid courses in Seattle and Charlotte), annual in-person two-day residencies are held on campus. Residencies focus on networking and tools for career success and allow you to connect with faculty and fellow scholars to share knowledge and experience. You'll attend residencies* in your first and second years of the program at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.

The Northeastern Doctor of Education degree is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and was selected as Program of the Year by the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Program for 2022-2023.

*Please note: International students enrolling in the online EdD program will be provided with an option to complete the residency through online participation in interactive sessions with fellow scholars offered during the residency period.

More Details

Unique features.

• You will choose one of five concentrations—higher education administration, innovative teaching and learning, transformative school leadership, workplace learning, and integrative studies—to focus your studies and further customize your curriculum.
• You'll begin dissertation in practice work at the onset of your program. You'll select a compelling educational/organizational challenge and will be assigned a faculty advisor to support your research throughout the program.
• All coursework is online—providing flexibility for working professionals. Your residencies will be fulfilled in person*, at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.
• You'll learn alongside faculty practitioners—engaging with respected leaders who contribute to the field as authors, journal editors, school board members, bloggers, and podcasters.

*In-person participation in the residency is also available for international students.

Concentrations

• Higher Education Administration: The higher education administration concentration provides an opportunity for experienced higher education professionals to expand their previous understanding of practices within all sectors of postsecondary education—and also advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their understanding of the roles of colleges and universities in our society. Sectors examined include community colleges, four-year colleges, for-profit institutions, and research universities.
• Innovative Teaching and Learning: The innovative teaching and learning concentration focuses on transforming education through innovation, justice, and policy, by providing engaging opportunities for current and aspiring teaching and learning specialists working in various education spaces. The concentration focuses on teaching and learning both inside and outside the bounds of P-20 schools and focuses on developing and leading innovative curricula as well as professional development.
• Transformative School Leadership: The transformative school leadership concentration provides innovative opportunities for experienced education professionals who are current and aspiring leaders of early childhood centers, public or private schools, or school districts. The concentration prepares students to lead and transform educational spaces and be equipped to shape the needs of education in K-12, higher education, organizational contexts, and beyond.
• Workplace Learning: The workplace learning concentration helps professionals gain a deeper understanding of, recognize, and influence real-life social inequalities faced by marginalized populations in the workplace. Courses allow students to advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their knowledge of workplace learning, organizational dynamics, learning strategy, and ethics.
• Integrative Studies: The integrative studies concentration provides an opportunity for students to design a program of study that fits their own professional goals and includes the required foundation and research courses, concentration courses from any EdD concentration, and electives from the Doctor of Education or Doctor of Law and Policy programs.

Program Objectives

Northeastern's Doctor of Education program is designed for experienced professionals interested in deepening their understanding of education, organizational development, and leadership. Throughout the program, students examine various approaches to critical, practice-based issues, learn research methods, and conduct a doctoral research study that investigates a compelling educational or organizational challenge.

2022-2023 Doctor of Education Program of the Year

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate selected Northeastern's EdD program as the 2022-2023 Program of the Year, noting the “redesigned Dissertation in Practice Curriculum and the adoption of action research as its guiding methodology …” The committee praised “the program’s efforts to move beyond the typical five-chapter dissertation and engage scholarly practitioners in the acquisition of skills to realize meaningful change in their local contexts, emphasizing social justice.”

Testimonials

– sara ewell, phd, assistant dean, graduate school of education, – frawn morgan, current student, doctor of education, – aaron b., program graduate, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• Academic transcripts: Official undergraduate and graduate degree documentation
• Describe the problem of practice
• Explain why you want to investigate it
• Provide a strong rationale for the significance of the problem
• Minimum work experience: Three years in a related field
• Professional resumé: Must summarize work and education history, include an outline of your educational/academic skills with examples such as research and teaching experience, affiliations, publications, certifications, presentations, and other professional skills.
• Faculty recommendation: Must be from a faculty member in your previous graduate program who can attest to your readiness for doctoral work. If you are no longer acquainted with a faculty member, please choose a professional who can speak of your academic capabilities to engage in doctoral-level research and writing. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Two professional recommendations: Must be from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities, a supervisor, mentor, or colleague. It is preferred that one letter of recommendation come from your current employer and/or supervisor. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Proof of English language proficiency: ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

The core of the mission of the program is to allow educators to remain in the places they work, focus on a problem of practice, and through experiential learning and site-specific research opportunities in the program, make an immediate impact in their professional environments. The program explicitly integrates research and practice for professionals so they develop the requisite skills for conceiving, designing, conducting, and producing original site-based research in order to effect ethical change related to real-life problems of practice.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Joseph McNabb, PhD

Cherese Childers-McKee, PhD

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Education & Learning alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Boston Public Schools
• Chicago Public Schools
• NYC Department of Education
• Lockheed Martin
• Veterans Affairs
• Johns Hopkins
• Columbia University

What They Do

• Media Consultant
• College President
• Chief Information Officer
• Instructional Designer
• Diversity Officer
• Founder-CEO
• VP of Student Services
• Community Services Director

What They're Skilled At

• Experiential Learning
• Team Building
• International Education
• Change Agency
• Entrepreneurship
• Urban Education
• Strategic Management
• Student Engagement

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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The Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs

Staff Writers

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated November 30, 2023

TheBestSchools.org 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.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

High-level positions in education should open over the next few years as baby boomers continue to retire. Among the many job openings are positions for principals, many of whom earn more than $100,000 per year . To become a principal, you generally need five years of classroom experience and an advanced degree, such as a doctorate in education. In this article, learn more about advanced online teaching degrees, program selection, and possible careers.

The Best Online Doctorate in Online Teaching Degree Programs

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org 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. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

#1 The Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs

Pepperdine University

• Online + Campus

The Ed.D. in educational leadership program at Pepperdine University appeals to doctoral students seeking an online route to their teaching degree. Degree-seekers benefit from the private university's flexible format. Doctoral students work closely with faculty mentors and career advisors.

In the online educational leadership program, learners take doctoral-level coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates propose a dissertation topic and conduct research in their specialty area. As the highest degree in online teaching, the doctorate meets requirements for research, academic, and leadership roles.

Doctoral students qualify for several forms of financial aid at the accredited institution. Contact the program for more information about research support and financial aid.

Pepperdine University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,623

Online Master's Programs: 12

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $34,900

#2 The Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs

University of Florida

• Gainesville, FL

The online Ed.D. program at the University of Florida ranks as one of the best degrees in the teaching field. The public university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible format. Doctoral students receive support services like career advising and research support.

In the online Ed.D. program, graduate learners take advanced courses. After completing coursework, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation or doctoral project. A doctorate leads to job opportunities in research, academia, and leadership.

Doctoral students attending the accredited institution online qualify for several forms of financial aid. Contact the program for more information about doctoral admissions.

University of Florida at a Glance:

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 67-to-1

#3 The Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Champaign, IL

The learning design and leadership Ed.D. program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign enrolls online learners. At the public university, degree-seekers engage in online classes to earn a doctorate. Doctoral students participate in career counseling and benefit from research support.

The online teaching program incorporates doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates complete a dissertation that contributes original research to the field. As the highest degree in teaching, the doctorate trains graduates for academic, research, and leadership careers.

Online doctoral students at the accredited institution pay for their degree with scholarships, fellowships, and loans. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about the enrollment process and start dates.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 20,199

Online Master's Programs: 30

Online Doctoral Programs: 1

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $14,997

#4 The Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs

University of Wyoming

• Laramie, WY

The educational leadership program at the University of Wyoming offers a doctorate in an online learning format. At the public institution, degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible environment. Doctoral students receive support services like career advising and research assistance.

The doctoral program includes a rigorous curriculum in teaching. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research for an original dissertation or project. As the terminal degree in education, the program leads to career opportunities in academia, research, and industry.

Online doctoral students at the accredited institution qualify for several forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about the application process and start dates.

University of Wyoming at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 5,058

Online Master's Programs: 4

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $4,878

#5 The Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs

Boise State University

The doctor of education in educational technology program at Boise State University appeals to doctoral students seeking an online route to their degree. Degree-seekers benefit from the public university's flexible format. Doctoral students participate in career advising and gain research skills.

Learners complete doctoral coursework in the online teaching program. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates begin working on an original dissertation project. With a doctorate in education, professionals work in academia, research, and leadership roles.

Doctoral students pay for the program with federal financial aid, fellowships, and scholarships. Prospective applicants can contact the program for more about financial aid and admission requirements.

Boise State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 10,304

Online Master's Programs: 6

Online Doctoral Programs: 2

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,110

Online Doctorate in Online Teaching Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools  cannot buy better rankings  at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

• Affordability
• Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System  (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's  National Center for Education Statistics  (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the  College Navigator .

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from  AcademicInfluence.com , subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About our ranking factors.

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

• Collapse All

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%, online enrollment - 10%.

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through  contact page .

We thank you for your readership and trust.

Choosing an Online Teaching Program

50 Best Online Colleges & Universities First, decide whether you want to pursue a Ph.D. or an Ed.D. Most Ph.D. candidates plan to teach in higher education, improving their own students' teaching skills and performing research on teaching best practices. Ed.D. graduates generally aspire to work as administrators, improving the educational system at the local, state, or national levels. An Ed.D. student may develop a policy change for her school or district and use the results as her dissertation's foundation.

Once you decide which degree works for you, investigate online teaching degrees that offer concentrations fitting your academic interests and postgraduate career plans. Most program concentrations emphasize educational leadership, research, and the overlap between education and public policy. Some programs boast unique concentrations such as international education. If a Ph.D. or Ed.D. program lacks concentrations, it may still allow you to tailor your education through independent study, research projects, or the dissertation. If you have a question about a program's courses or concentrations, contact that department to learn more.

What Else Can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Online Teaching Program?

Your educational experience depends on the course and concentration offerings at the university you attend. For this reason, invest time researching the courses and concentrations offered by the online programs on your shortlist. In the next two sections, learn more about popular concentrations and courses offered by the nation's best online programs.

Education PhD Programs for You

Concentrations offered for an online doctoral degree in online teaching.

• Careers this concentration prepares for:Postsecondary teacher; department chair
• Careers this concentration prepares for: Dean; chancellor; policy advisor
• Careers this concentration prepares for: Principal; superintendent; postsecondary education administrator

Curriculum for an Online Doctoral Degree in Online Teaching

• Introduction to Doctoral Studies: In this course, students hone the academic skills required to excel in doctoral programs. In a teaching degree online program, a classroom activity might include analyzing a dissertation's strengths and weaknesses. All doctoral students take this or a similar course when they begin their programs.
• Research Design: Doctoral students often take one to two research design courses before they begin the dissertation process. Students analyze different research methods and practice fundamentals such as writing a thesis, crafting a research plan, and creating an outline.
• Social Justice in Education: This course appeals to students who want to correct racial and socioeconomic injustices many students face during their education. Students analyze the history of social justice in the classroom along with the issues standing in the way of equitable education for all students.
• Higher Education and the Law: This course provides future postsecondary administrators knowledge of legal topics that affect higher education, such as campus safety reform and sexual harassment.
• Contemporary Leadership Models: In this course, students learn how to reform an organization's leadership structure. To discover effective solutions, students analyze reform efforts from around the country and around the world. Students who excel in this course often work as advisors at colleges, universities, or school districts.

Careers with a Doctorate in Online Teaching

• Median Annual Salary: $101,320
• Projected Growth Rate: 1%
• Median Annual Salary: $80,840
• Projected Growth Rate: 8%
• Median Annual Salary: $99,940
• Projected Growth Rate: 4%

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Featured Image Credit: katleho Seisa | E+ | Getty Images

Popular with our students.

Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

Online Ph.D. in Literacy

Devote yourself to advancing literacy education.

Request more information.

100% online

2.5 years of courses + dissertation project to complete

2 specializations

61st Best Online Education Graduate Programs 1

Literacy is the foundation of all learning. Prepare to help students from diverse backgrounds overcome barriers to reading proficiency and succeed throughout their entire educational career with the Ph.D. in Literacy program at St. John’s University—one of the nation’s only online doctorate programs in literacy.

Graduate in as little as three years ready to enhance learning across all subject areas in partnership with students, teachers, and administrators.

Plus, you can enter the field confident that your training meets or exceeds that of your peers. The School of Education at St. John’s University is a member of the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation , American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education , and University Council for Educational Administration .

“The information I am learning in the program is priceless. I truly appreciate the direction that is given by my professors. They are very helpful and knowledgeable. I believe this program will prepare me to advocate for both teachers and students in my field.” – Annamaria Miller, ESL Teacher/Instructor

Customize Your Learning

Take your career in a new direction by focusing your education in one of two areas:

Ph.D. in Literacy: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Combine your passion for literacy with specialized skills teaching English to speakers of other languages. This curriculum meets the International TESOL Association’s highest standards.

Ph.D. in Literacy: Literacy

Support literacy as the backbone of education from kindergarten to high school graduation, gain first-hand experience with expert faculty, and build a foundation for student success.

Find Your Future in Literacy

Equip yourself with a repertoire of literacy strategies that enhance teaching in a variety of environments, from the classroom or special education department to learning resource rooms and ESL teams.

Depending on your specialization, prepare for job titles such as:

Curriculum Focused on Reaching Diverse Learners

The entire 42-credit curriculum, through research, implementation, and instruction, is built around a holistic focus on helping students overcome the obstacles they face in literacy, no matter their background. You will:

• Broaden and increase your depth of knowledge on literacy for all learners, including diverse and at-risk populations.
• Develop your abilities as a literacy educator who sees diversity as an advantage.
• Gain forward-thinking perspectives on literacy research, theory, practice, and evaluation.
• Expand your capacity to conduct advanced research and inquiry.

The online Ph.D. in Literacy encourages proactive research to find solutions for literacy difficulties and advocates for equity and social justice. Through an independent research project, you address a critical area in literacy and harness what you learn to make an impact in this field.

Work with Dedicated Faculty

Learn from faculty with decades of experience in literacy education and take advantage of a dedicated advisor who supports your success throughout the program. Annual reviews of your progress, and mentorship from the program coordinator, ensure you make the most of your time at St. John’s University.

If you have any questions about St. John’s University’s online Ph.D. in Literacy, contact us at 844-393-1677 or request more information today!

• U.S. News & World Report, 2019
• O-Net Online. (2018) Education Administrators, Elementary & Secondary School. Retrieved on February 13, 2019, from https://www.mynextmove.org/profile/ext/online/11-9032.00 .
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2017 May) Adult Basic and Secondary Education and Literacy Teachers and Instructors. Retrieved on February 13, 2019, from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes253011.htm .
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2017 May) Occupational Outlook Handbook: Post-Secondary Education Administrators. Retrieved on February 13, 2019, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm .
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2017 May) Occupational Employment Statistics. Retrieved on February 13, 2019, from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252059.htm .

25 Best Online PhD in Teaching Programs [Doctorate Guide]

A PhD in Teaching dives deeper into the ways in which students learn and the ways in which educators can teach more effectively. You can study to become a specialist in your field and create solutions for educational challenges.

This degree is a beneficial PhD for teachers and other education professionals who want to push the field forward through their research. A PhD can also help you grow your qualifications for leadership roles as well as positions in higher education.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Read on to learn more about this program, including example courses and potential outcomes.

PhD in Teaching Programs Online

A teaching doctorate degree is an advanced program for people with a deep interest in teaching and education. A PhD program in teaching studies the ways in which people learn and the many challenges that face educational school systems.

You could also study an array of courses meant to grow your knowledge of educational systems while gaining hands-on experience in teaching. Common areas of study include:

• Education foundations
• Cognitive and social development
• Instructional design
• Learning and motivational theory

Of course, these are only some of the many subjects PhD students will encounter. A teaching and learning PhD program can help you cultivate your context expertise, your leadership skills, and your ability to make well-reasoned decisions based on data. Upon graduation, PhD students may be qualified to perform high-quality research and mold the next generation of educators.

Positions related to this area of study include:

• K-12 education administrator
• Postsecondary teacher
• Postsecondary education administrator
• Educational researcher
• Instructional coordinator
• Elementary, middle, or high school teacher

Your program’s coursework will help you develop advanced expertise that’s applicable for various positions both in and out of the field of education. A PhD program in teaching will generally require a dissertation component as well.

Common Online PhD in Teaching Concentrations

PhD in Teacher Education programs may offer various concentrations, allowing students to focus their studies and research on a certain aspect of education. Some of these concentrations include:

• Kinesiology. This concentration is designed for professionals who want to research or teach within the field of kinesiology, though this interdisciplinary program could also lead to careers in industry.
• Language, Literacy, Literature, and Culture. This concentration exposes you to various courses in reading, English literature, bilingual education, and multiculturalism.
• Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. This concentration focuses on the principles of child development and emerging research strategies.
• Special Education. This concentration emphasizes culturally responsive teaching methods that are tailored for students with disabilities.
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education. In this concentration, you would study and research informal STEM education, K-16 STEM education, teaching and teacher education, and equity issues in STEM.

These only represent a few of the common concentrations that may be available. It’s helpful to review a prospective program’s concentrations before applying.

Teaching Careers & Salaries

A PhD in Teaching is one of the popular doctorate programs for teachers. You can choose a concentration that aligns with the sector of the field that you’re passionate about, and you can further your expertise and professional qualifications.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are the median wages of common education career paths.

In general, teaching PhD graduates can be found working within community colleges, universities, school districts, nonprofits, and more. Within these fields, graduates may occupy positions as professors, education administrators, top executives, researchers, instructional coordinators, and program directors.

Holding a PhD in Teaching doesn’t guarantee that you’ll qualify for a specific position, as many factors influence the hiring process. But, earning a terminal degree could help you advance your credibility and qualifications in your field.

Teaching PhD Curriculum & Courses

A PhD in Education will expose you to various courses that are meant to prepare you to be a competent researcher or educator. Some of the courses you may encounter include:

• Issues and Trends in Multicultural Education: In this course, you’ll study the theory and practice of multicultural education.
• Introduction to Science of Learning: This course delves into the theoretical traditions and foundations that influence the science of learning.
• Teaching and Teacher Education: This course gives you an overview of subjects like the history of US education, equity issues, and contemporary educational issues, along with how they all relate to historical and social contexts.
• Language Policy and Planning (K-12): In this course, you’ll study subjects like status planning, corpus planning, and prestige planning.
• Theories and Research in Languaging and Language Development: In this course, you’ll be given an overview of languaging and language development.
• Theories and Research in Literacies and Literacy Development: This course explores various topics like the history of literacy, major theories of literacy development, and issues in literacy development.
• Research in Teacher Development and Professionalization Policies: In this course, you’ll study the topics that influence the policy issues that affect teachers.
• Administration and Organizational Behavior II: This course gives you the opportunity to design and execute your own field study project.
• Scholarly Writing: This course is designed to improve your ability to write in a scholarly manner.
• Educational Research Apprenticeship: This course gives you the opportunity to be mentored as you complete your research.

These don’t represent all of the courses that may be available to you. It’s beneficial to review the curriculums of your top schools to see if their listed courses interest you.

Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements for a teaching doctorate degree are likely to vary by school. That said, here are some standard criteria:

• GRE or GMAT scores (only if required)
• Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of intent
• Resume or CV

It’s beneficial to review the specific requirements of your program of choice to ensure that you fulfill the necessary criteria. You can reach out to your prospective school’s admissions office with any application questions.

Accreditation

If you’re planning to earn a Ph.D. in Teaching, then you may want to only consider schools that hold regional accreditation . This accreditation status is given to postsecondary institutions that have been evaluated and found to offer high-quality educational services.

Employers tend to prefer applicants from accredited institutions because they trust the quality of their education. Many positions in higher education also require professionals to have accredited doctorates. In addition, many financial aid opportunities are designated for students who are enrolled at accredited schools.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Many students seek financial aid to help cover the upfront costs of their education. A common source of funding is student loans from the federal government. You can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for federal aid.

You can also consider scholarships or grants. These opportunities are often offered by schools, professional organizations, and private institutions. Some schools also offer fellowships or assistantships to PhD students who qualify. If you’re currently working, you can see if your employer offers a tuition reimbursement program or other forms of tuition benefits.

Do You Need a PhD to Be a Professor?

The requirements for higher education professors vary by institution. There are many factors that may determine whether or not a PhD is required, like subject area or course level. It is typical for full-time professors at four year colleges and universities to hold a PhD or doctorate in their field of study.

Community colleges and vocational schools, on the other hand, often hire postsecondary teachers who have a master’s degree or extensive work experience. Some colleges and universities also hire masters-degree holders for part-time teaching positions.

Can You Get a PhD in Teaching?

Yes, a number of schools offer a PhD in Teaching. This degree path is beneficial for students and professionals who are passionate about the impact of education and about helping people succeed in their academic pursuits.

Should you choose to pursue a PhD in Teaching, your studies could help you develop advanced research skills and gain valuable hands-on experience in teaching. You might study subjects like educational psychology and how it can be applied to different learning environments.

Most teaching PhD programs also offer degree concentrations to let you specialize in a particular sector of the education field.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Teaching and Learning?

Graduates from PhD in Teaching programs may go on to enter a variety of teaching, research, and leadership positions within education. Many education professionals work within K-12 schools, higher education, nonprofit organizations, and other organizations.

PhD graduates who enter into the field of higher education may find themselves working as professors or education administrators in community colleges, specialized professional schools, or universities. Professionals with a PhD in Teaching may also find work as educational researchers or instructional coordinators.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Teaching Online?

A teaching PhD program generally requires between 60 and 90 credit hours. On average, this takes most students anywhere between 3 years and 5 years to complete with full-time study.

A large factor in the duration of your program will depend on the time it takes you to complete your dissertation. You can expect to spend the majority of your education focused on your course load and then a remaining year or so working on your dissertation.

Additionally, much like when completing a Master of Arts in Teaching online program, earning your PhD online could either shorten or lengthen the duration of your program. This could depend on whether you pursue an accelerated track or want a more flexible, slower-paced schedule.

What’s the Difference Between EdD vs. PhD in Teaching Programs?

Here are some of the key differences between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Teaching and a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Teaching.

A PhD focuses more on conducting research, while an EdD focuses more on applying research to the field.

Is a Doctorate Degree in Teaching Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate degree in teaching is worth it for many students. PhD in teaching degrees provide students with an education that is heavily research focused.

Many graduates pursue positions in educational research or educational leadership. A PhD is also a common requirement for teaching positions in higher education. A PhD could also help teachers and other education professionals increase their earning potential and expand their career opportunities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 12% job growth is expected for postsecondary teachers over the next ten years, which is much faster than average. Instructional coordinators and education administrators are all projected to see steady growth over the same period.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Teaching Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Ball State University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies using a blend of online and on-campus attendance models. Concentrations include Curriculum, Educational Technology, and Cultural and Educational Policy Studies. On average, the 91 required credit hours are completed in 4 years of full-time study.

Ball State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University offers a PhD in Education program online and on campus. Common courses include Higher Education and the Law, Funding and Managing Education Enterprises, and Leading Diverse Schools. The program is designed to help prepare for service as leaders in a variety of educational settings. Required coursework may be completed through online and in-person classes.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University offers a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership program online. The program aims to help prepare for entry into roles such as enrollment management, student services, higher education administration, and academic support services. The 60 required credit hours are usually completed in about 5 years.

Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia International University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership. Courses typically teach topics like team building, research methods, educational technology, instructional design, organizational behavior, and student assessment. The 60 credit program usually takes about 36 months to complete when attended full-time.

CIU is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

George Mason University offers a PhD in Education program using a blend of online and traditional in-person learning. Concentrations include Special Education, Education Policy, Literacy, Learning Technologies, and Higher Education. The program requires the completion of 75 credit hours.

George Mason University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Liberty University offers a Ph.D in Education program online. Available specializations include Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Law, Instructional Design and Technology, Organizational Leadership, and Special Education. Classes are typically 8 weeks long each. On average, the 60 required credit hours are completed in about 3 years.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Education. The curriculum aims to develop a solid understanding of educational theory, instructional methods, and research skills. Classes typically start every Monday. The program is commonly completed in 37 months when attending full-time.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Notre Dame of Maryland University offers an online program for a PhD in Higher Education Leadership for Changing Populations.

Potential courses include Education and Policy Analysis, Organization and Governance in Higher Education, and Curriculum Development. The program has no required residency, but comprehensive exams require 1 weekend of on-campus attendance after completion of coursework. Admissions are usually offered on a rolling basis.

Notre Dame of Maryland University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Regent University offers a Ph.D. in Education program online. Specializations include Educational Psychology, Curriculum and Instruction, Higher Education Leadership, and Special Education. The program aims to help prepare for entry into roles such as university professor, superintendent, school administrator, and principal researcher. The program requires the completion of 67 credit hours.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

St. John’s University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Literacy program online. Common courses include Literacy Inquiry, Models and Processes of Reading and Writing Acquisition, and Literacy Leadership. The program is intended for educators who have already completed a master’s degree in the field. The 42 required credits may be completed in as little as 2.5 years.

St. John’s University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas Tech University offers a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction program online. The program is designed to help prepare educators with the knowledge and skills needed to analyze, construct, and evaluate curricula in ways that create optimal learning conditions for all learners. The program requires the completion of 63 credit hours.

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Woman’s University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Leadership, and Organization. Specializations include Superintendency, Higher Education, and Interdisciplinary Nonprofits. On average, the 75 required credits may be completed in 3 years when attending full-time. The program may allow the transfer of up to 37 qualified credits from other accredited institutions.

Texas Woman’s University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University at Albany offers a Ph.D in Curriculum and Instruction program online. Core courses typically include Principles of Instruction, Principles of Curriculum Development, and Foundations of Research in Curriculum and Instruction. Hands-on learning opportunities in the field are commonly offered, and further specializations by subject or student population may be available.

UAlbany is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Arizona offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Education program online. The curriculum aims to teach topics like technology, governance, curriculum design, assessment, and educational diversity. Accelerated classes may be available, which are typically 6 to 9 weeks each and are commonly taken 1 at a time. Up to 30 of the 59 required credits may be transferred from other accredited institutions.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Delaware offers a Ph.D. in Education program. At least 1 academic year must be spent in residence, after which some courses may be offered online. Concentrations include Learning Sciences, Literacy, Mathematics Education, and Sociocultural and Community-Based Approaches. The program requires the completion of 55 credit hours, typically taking 4 to 5 years of full-time study.

The  University of Delaware  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Idaho offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Education program in a hybrid format. Concentrations include Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Adult Learning and Organizational Leadership, Exercise Science, and Special Education. The program tends to be research-oriented and is designed primarily to teach the knowledge and skills needed for research and teaching careers in higher education.

The University of Idaho is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The University of Kentucky offers an online program for a PhD in Educational Leadership. The program aims to teach skills needed for entry into roles such as university faculty member, scholar, research scientist, or education consultant. On average, the 46 required credits may be completed in 4 years when attending classes full-time.

The University of Kentucky is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers an online program for a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Higher Education. Depending on professional goals, the degree may be completed as a Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Education. The curriculum spans 108 credits and classes are usually taught online, though occasional residency attendance may be required.

The University of Nebraska – Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of North Dakota offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Teaching and Leadership. Classes typically meet asynchronously online through lesson modules, virtual libraries, recorded lectures, and online simulations. The courses aim to teach topics like research, teacher development, and curriculum design. The program requires the completion of at least 90 credits while maintaining a 3.0 GPA or higher.

The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

The University of Northern Colorado offers a PhD in Special Education program online. Potential courses include Theories of Exceptionalities, Preparing Teachers for Students with Exceptionalities, and Advanced Research Methods. The program requires the completion of 77 credit hours, and up to 21 approved credits from other accredited institutions may be transferred in.

The University of Northern Colorado is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of San Diego offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Justice Education. Potential courses include Critical Social Theory and Education, Educational Research and Methods, History of Education for Social Justice, and Education and Globalization. On average, degree requirements are completed in 4 to 5 years of full-time study.

USD is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

The University of Tennessee–Knoxville offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology and Research for Adult and Continuing Education. Classes typically teach key concepts like qualitative research, teaching methodology, adult learning, professional writing, and psychological, social, and physical development. Admissions are typically offered for the fall and spring terms. The curriculum consists of 85 credit hours.

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Toledo offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction. Classes may meet asynchronously online or on-campus in the evening. Concentrations include Educational Technology, Early Childhood, or Special Education. Potential courses include Trends in Literacy Acquisition, Discourse in Instruction, and Language and Concept Development in Early Childhood.

The University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Wyoming offers a PhD in Education in a hybrid format. Further specializations are commonly available in Literacy, Curriculum, Mathematics, and Science Education. The program requires the completion of 80 credit hours and commonly utilizes a hybrid learning model of both online and in-person class offerings. At least 1 semester must be completed on-campus.

The University of Wyoming is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University offers a Ph.D. in Education program online. Concentrations include Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Technology, Early Childhood Advocacy, Organizational Research, and Literacy. The program aims to provide the skills needed for teaching and leadership roles in settings like schools, district offices, universities, community colleges, research institutions, and non-profit organizations.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Earning Your PhD in Teaching Online

Earning a teaching PhD online could be beneficial for those who want to become educational leaders, researchers, and postsecondary teachers. K-12 teachers may also pursue online degrees in education to expand their expertise and earning potential.

With a PhD, you could drive the field forward through hands-on work with students or behind-the-scenes work as a researcher or an administrator. Whether it be as an elementary school teacher, an instructional coordinator, or the dean of a college, your knowledge and expertise could be fundamental to shaping the lives of others.

You could begin researching accredited universities today to discover which online PhD programs in teaching and learning best match your personal interests and professional goals.

2024 Best Online PhD in Teaching Programs

An online PhD in Teaching allows you the opportunity to develop your expertise in the education industry.

A PhD program can help put you on the path toward pursuing senior leadership positions in academia. In addition, PhD graduates often qualify for careers in research as well as postsecondary teaching.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

By pursuing a Ph.D in Education online, you can receive advanced training for this impactful and rewarding field.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Teaching Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Ball State University

Ball State University offers a PhD in Educational Studies. Students may choose between 3 specializations: Curriculum, Educational Technology, or Cultural and Educational Policy.

The program requires 91 credits to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and should submit GRE scores, 3 letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Capella University

Capella University offers a PhD in Education with 5 specializations, including Special Education Leadership and Leadership for Higher Education. The requirements to graduate differ for each specialization. Some require internships, while others require dissertations. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Capella also offers an online EdD in Curriculum and Instruction .

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a PhD in Education and Human Resources with a Higher Education Leadership specialization.

Students must complete 60 credits, 2 comprehensive exams, and a dissertation and have a juried publication or presentation to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and 2 years of relevant work experience.

Colorado State  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia International University

Columbia International University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership. The program requires 60 credits to graduate and can usually be finished within 4 years. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.2 and need to submit 2 references, a letter of evaluation, and an academic writing sample.

CIU  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University—Chicago offers online education degree programs leading to a PhD. Options include a Principal Preparation program and an Educational Leadership program.

Each program can typically be completed in 4 years, with 61 to 67 credits required to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE scores, and 2 years of teaching experience. Concordia University Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana State University

Indiana State University offers an online program for a PhD in Educational Administration with a specialization in Higher Education Leadership.

To graduate, students must complete 63 credit hours, including 18 dedicated towards a dissertation. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a grade of B+ or higher. Official transcripts, GRE scores, and 3 letters of recommendation must be submitted when applying.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Johns Hopkins University

John Hopkins University offers an online Doctor of Education program. The program is completed part-time and usually takes 3 to 7 years to finish. A total of 90 credits are needed to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, a personal statement, and 3 letters of recommendation.

Johns Hopkins University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online PhD in Education program. Students may choose to add one of 5 specializations to their degree, including Educational Law or Curriculum and Instruction. Each course lasts for 8 weeks. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and need to submit all official college transcripts to be eligible for the program.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

National University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Education. Students must obtain 60 credit hours to graduate.

The program can be started at any time and usually takes 37 months to complete. Those interested in the program must complete an online application and submit official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership.

Students must complete 41 credits, which can be added to 30 obtained from a qualifying Ed.S degree, to graduate. Applicants must have an Ed.S degree with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. An interview with the doctoral program director and 2 references are also required.

NNU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Notre Dame of Maryland University

Notre Dame of Maryland University offers a PhD in Higher Education Leadership for Changing Populations. Students must complete 51 credits, including 12 dedicated to a dissertation, to graduate. Applicants must complete an online application and provide official transcripts, 2 letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and GRE scores.

Notre Dame of Maryland University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers an online PhD in Educational Leadership program. Students must complete 33 credit hours and 120 internship hours to graduate.

Applicants must be currently employed by a school district and have 3 years of experience to be eligible for the program. Official transcripts, an essay, and 3 references must be submitted when applying.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regent University

Regent University offers an online PhD in Education program. It requires students to complete 67 credit hours and a dissertation to graduate. Students may choose one of 11 different concentrations to add to the degree, including Adult Education and Educational Psychology. Applicants must submit an academic writing sample and transcripts.

Regent University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction. Applicants must submit transcripts and test scores to be eligible for the program.

Specializations that can be pursued in this program include Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education, Language, Diversity, and Literacy Studies, and STEM. Each specialization requires students to obtain 63 credit hours to graduate.

Texas Tech University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers an online Doctorate in Education program. To graduate, students must complete 59 credits, with 11 dedicated to either a capstone project or dissertation, and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Courses last for 6 to 9 weeks. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

The University of Arizona  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas offers an online program for a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership.

The program requires the completion of 42 credit hours and a dissertation and can usually be completed in 3 years. Classes are held in cohorts. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a writing sample, 3 letters of recommendation, and a copy of their teaching or administrator’s license.

The University of Arkansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Idaho

The University of Idaho offers a Doctor of Education and a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction. Students may choose to add one of nine specializations to their degree, including Exercise Science or Career and Technical Education. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, 3 letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.

The  University of Idaho  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

University of Nebraska

The University of Nebraska offers an online PhD in Educational Studies program. Students must complete 108 credits, including the credits earned from a master’s degree.

At least 45 semester hours must be obtained from the University of Nebraska. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE scores, and 3 letters or recommendation.

The  University of Nebraska  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Toledo

The University of Toledo offers an online program for a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Special Education.

Students must complete 60 credit hours and an internship to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.25 in previous graduate work, 3 letters of recommendation, and 2 years of teaching experience.

The  University of Toledo  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University

Walden University offers an online program for a PhD in Education with 11 different specializations. Specialization options include Early Childhood Special Education and Reading, Literacy, Assessment, and Evaluation.

Up to 45 qualifying credits can be transferred into the program from other schools, work experience, or examinations. Applicants must submit an online application with official transcripts and previous employment history.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Teaching Programs

An online PhD in Education can open up opportunities for senior leadership positions in academia. A PhD degree path focuses primarily on research.

Leadership roles in academia include:

• College president
• Chief learning officer
• Senior academic administrator
• Academic dean

Though courses vary from school to school, you’ll likely find yourself learning about the following topics:

• Educational pedagogy
• Leadership in education
• Advanced educational psychology
• Advanced curriculum study

You may also find yourself immersed in research projects. These projects are catered to your concerns or interests in the educational industry, demonstrating your commitment to positive change. Many programs also require examinations or dissertations. It’s strategic to look at the program requirements for each school that interests you.

If you wish to advance your teaching career or use your educational experience in a meaningful way, an online doctorate in education offers meaningful coursework to enhance your training and skill set.

Specializations

When pursuing an online PhD in Education, you have the opportunity to focus on a specialization that best aligns with your interests and career goals. Here are some common specializations:

• Higher Education Leadership : This specializations helps you develop the necessary skills to take on administrative roles in higher education and in government institutions.
• Curriculum and Instruction : This specialization focuses on the research, development, and implementation of impactful curriculum changes. By studying statistics of student achievement and recognizing where gaps need to be filled, you may impact curriculum development.
• Organizational Leadership : This specialization helps prepare you for leadership roles within an educational institution. You can learn how to prepare strategic development ideas for your organization and also how to aid in employees’ professional development.
• Special Education : This specialization focuses on the individual needs of a unique population of an educational organization. You can learn to create accommodating environments and instruction for these high-need students, and you can learn to better understand students’ differences, disabilities, and gifts.
• K-12 Education : With a focus on primary and secondary education, a K-12 education specialization allows you to advance your leadership and administrative skills in order to oversee educational institutions.

These specializations are extremely diverse. Your previous educational experience and long-term professional goals can help you determine which path is best for you.

Teaching & Education Careers & Salaries

Ph.D programs in education can lead to a vast range of career paths, depending on your interests and long-term goals. What degree you need to be a teacher at the K-12 level is a bachelor’s, earning a PhD can help you qualify for positions in research and postsecondary institutions as well.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , employment for education, training, and library occupations is projected to grow 5% in the next ten years.

The majority of these roles require extensive research and administrative skills. Many of these careers can be found in postsecondary or government educational institutions. In regards to the salary for postsecondary teachers, the average pay can vary depending on the subject taught.

How to Choose an Online Doctoral Program in Education

Here are a few factors you may consider when you’re selecting which online doctoral programs to pursue:

• Program length . Perhaps you have a few years to dedicate to this program, or maybe you wish to finish more quickly in order to advance your career. This is a factor to look into when making your selection.
• Your schedule . Do you have the time available to dedicate yourself to a full-time course load? Perhaps you wish to continue working while you take a part-time course load. It’s helpful to select a program that adapts to your life.
• Specialization focus . Do your prospective schools offer the specialization that aligns with your career goals?
• Accreditation . It’s important for a program to be from an accredited institution.
• Credit transfers . Schools can have varying credit transfer policies. Enrolling in a program that allows you to transfer your credits may be beneficial in the long run.

In addition, it’s strategic to check admission requirements to ensure that you meet or exceed the basic requirements of your potential school. You can also inquire as to whether an internship or residency placement can work toward your course credits.

Education Doctorate Curriculum

The degree specialization you choose can radically change the courses you find yourself in. Here are a few basic courses you may encounter when pursuing doctorate degrees in education:

•   Educational Pedagogy : This course is the study of all the different aspects of teaching and teaching methods. You reflect on teaching, consider how it is constructed, collaborate to improve it, and develop plans to integrate these new methods.
• Leadership in Education : You’ll learn the necessary skills and characteristics for management roles in educational institutions. You’ll research leadership in the context of education and learn the necessary skills to implement toward the development of schools.
• Advanced Educational Psychology : This course focuses on the analysis of classroom strategies used to help students succeed. It looks at psychological theories and learning research and seeks to use inquiry-based practice to solve instructional and administrative problems.
• Advanced Curriculum Study : Looking at the principles of curriculum development and implementation, you’ll learn to research and study data on how to improve curriculum for student success. This course also seeks to help you better understand how to administer curriculum and program design improvements to your professional team.
• Gifted and Special Education : Looking at the needs and differentiation required by students in a high-needs population, you’ll develop the necessary skills to become leaders in the special education department.
• Teaching Adult Populations : Teaching students of the adult population differs in both planning and approach. If you wish to pursue professor roles in postsecondary institutions, the skills and management learned in this course can be beneficial.
• Advanced Educational Research Practices : In order to become highly skilled in research specific to the education industry, you’ll learn the foundational basics for studying data, analyzing statistics, and conducting effective studies.
• Problems and Issues in Education : This is a beginner’s course to help you understand the basic needs and struggles of both curriculum and teaching in all educational industries. You’ll learn the necessary methods to formulate questions and inquiry-based studies to help improve education.
• Instruction Technology and Methodology : You’ll learn how to implement and facilitate technology-based teaching to enrich the learning experience. There is a focus on how to modernize and improve education through technology as well.
• Administration : If you’re looking to take on a leadership or administration role, you may benefit from the management skills and organizational strategies developed through this course.

This is only a sample of what courses you may encounter as you pursue your degree. Most PhD programs also include a dissertation requirement.

Admissions Requirements

Schools that offer an online PhD in Teaching program can have varying admission requirements. It’s beneficial to look into each of your prospective school’s requirements. Here are some common criteria you may encounter when you’re looking to apply:

• Bachelor and masters degree in a relevant subject
• Official college transcripts
• Resume or CV
• Letter of intent

Some schools may request a GME or GMAT score for graduate admissions, but a number of schools no longer require this in their admissions process.

Accreditation

Regional accreditation of a school and program is an essential factor to look for. Regional accreditation ensures that the school is up to educational standards and that your degree will be recognized across the United States.

Accreditation is often a requirement for credits to be eligible for transfer as well. A school’s accreditation status affirms that its standards are of high academic quality and accountability, according to the expectations established by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) .

You can also check CHEA’s database of accredited institutions to make sure that the school you’re interested in is listed.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Most students who pursue an online PhD in Teaching already have experience in the education industry. If you’ll be looking for financial aid for your doctoral journey, you may want to start by asking your organization if they offer sabbaticals or scholarships.

There are also numerous scholarships available for students pursuing degrees in education, so you may be able to find and apply to these scholarships if you qualify.

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is another place to start when seeking financial aid. Some schools set deadlines for how long they’ll accept FAFSA applications, so it’s necessary to apply prior to this deadline. The FAFSA determines your eligibility for financial aid provided by the federal and state governments.

Education Professional Organizations

Professional organizations are not mandatory, but they can offer you unique professional support and numerous professional growth opportunities.

Here are a few education professional organizations you may want to consider joining:

• American Association of School Administrators (AASA)
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)
• National Education Association (NEA)

A professional organization allows you to be part of a connected support network, to have access to free resources, and to be informed about conferences and workshops that can benefit your growth in the industry.

What Is an EdD?

Doctor of Education (EdD) is a professional degree for those looking to take on leadership roles in the education industry. This type of degree is catered for experienced educators who are looking to find career growth or make impactful change in their organization.

An Ed.D. is primarily practice-based and involves collecting and analyzing data in order to implement new strategies in K-12 organizations. It’s a strategic path for educators seeking administrative roles in student and organizational success.

What Is a PhD in Education?

A PhD in Education is a degree that helps qualify you to pursue a role in academia and research at a postsecondary level.

It’s a very research-heavy, theoretical-based program that helps equip students to become leaders in the education industry. The work or research a PhD graduate does may impact the work an EdD graduate implements in their administrative role.

A PhD in Education is strategic if you want to work in academia as a postsecondary professor and pursue tenure.  A PhD is also beneficial if you want to focus on research.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Teaching?

There are numerous roles in academia, research, or administration that you may pursue with a PhD in Teaching.

Common careers in this field include postsecondary professor, postsecondary or senior academic administrator, chief learning officer, college president, academic dean, and educational research analyst.

Academic dean positions may be limited per institution, but administrators, professors, and learning officers continue to be needed as more students enter universities and postsecondary institutions.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Teaching?

A PhD generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete. The length of a program can depend on the number of credit hours required as well as how long it takes you to complete your dissertation.

If no dissertation is required, a doctoral program can generally be completed in 3 years with full-time study. If you take a part-time course load or work while pursuing your degree, you can expect your timeframe to be extended.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Teaching?

Although tuition varies, you can expect to pay between $350 to $800 per credit hour when pursuing a teaching PhD.

A typical program requires around 90 credits, which means that tuition may range from $31,500 to over $72,000, depending on the school and program requirements. There are also additional fees to consider, such as textbooks, workshops, conferences, or additional certification programs that you may encounter while pursuing your degree.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD vs. Doctorate in Education?

Though they are both doctoral degrees, there are a few differences between a PhD and a professional doctorate in education.

It can help to think of your long-term career goals when deciding between online doctoral degrees in education.

What’s the Difference Between an EdD vs. PhD in Education?

There are quite a few key differences between a Doctor of Education (EdD) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education.

Time and cost can be important factors to consider when deciding between these two degrees.

Is a PhD in Teaching Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Teaching is worth it for many professionals. This terminal degree may lead to impactful work in the industry of education. It can help you develop the necessary skills to obtain work in research as well as academia. Graduates tend to go on to become teachers or administrators in the education field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth for education, training, and library occupations. Employment for those working in postsecondary education administration is expected to grow 4%. Postsecondary teachers are expected to experience 9% job growth.

Getting Your PhD in Teaching Online

If you wish to be immersed in the research that helps define changes in education on a national level, then you may want to consider getting your PhD in Teaching online.

Many online teaching degree programs , including both online doctorate and online masters programs in teaching , offer you the flexibility to work around your schedule and lifestyle while you advance your skill set and work toward your career goals in academia.

With your advanced training, you may find yourself taking part in the future of education. If you’re ready to begin your terminal degree, you can start by comparing accredited online doctoral teaching programs to find the one that best suits your schedule and professional goals.

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Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership and Learning in Organizations

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Earn an Ed.D. from a Top-Ranked Education School 1

Apply New Practices Directly to Your Career

Vanderbilt Has the #1 Online Doctorate in Education, According to Fortune Education 2022 Rankings 2

Peabody College faculty developed the doctor of education (Ed.D.) in leadership and learning in organizations with the aim of bridging the divide between theory and practice. The curriculum they built equips Ed.D. students with the deep understanding and contextual experience they need to implement positive change in diverse career fields and communities.

Visit the Ed.D. admissions page to view upcoming deadlines and application requirements.

The Vanderbilt Peabody Online doctoral program is  designed for mid-career professionals who have at least three years of leadership experience . While ranging in age and background, all students in the online Ed.D. have this in common: They are motivated to build on their organizational leadership skills and are committed to creating meaningful change within their industry. 

Build on a Strong Leadership Foundation

Earn a Peabody Online Doctor of Education.

Advancing Your Career in Education and Organizational Leadership

Leaders who want to improve organizations — to drive better results for the people they serve — will find an effective path for advancement in the Peabody Online Ed.D.

Whether corporate, nonprofit, educational, or governmental, workplace communities need support and direction to foster development, leverage resources, create solutions, and resolve complex challenges . The Ed.D. develops inquisitive, results-oriented professionals who can confidently drive widespread change.

Peabody Online Ed.D. students will strengthen their skills in:

• Organizational communication
• Management and leadership
• Inquiry and assessment of systemic issues
• Data analytics for leadership
• Learning and program design

The Ed.D. curriculum prepares students to identify, assess, and resolve organizational challenges from a learning and design perspective, which teaches students to make a positive impact in any industry. Through intensive, applied learning, professionals in the program will be empowered to implement advanced techniques that improve their day-to-day efficacy and long-term career success.

“My peer group is spectacular. It’s just an incredible group of very motivated, bright, and kind people from a lot of very different backgrounds . When I first started the program, I did wonder if I would be the only one who did not come from academia or a teaching background, and that’s very much not the case.”

Amrita Bhowmick, Ed.D. ’22 Chief community officer at Health Union Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Ph.D. vs. Doctorate in Education

Both a Ph.D. in education and a doctorate in education (Ed.D.) are advanced doctoral degrees that emphasize the study of learning and development, but they  differ greatly in curricular and research content, and in potential career outcomes .

An Ed.D. is for professionals who want to solve organizational challenges and improve their abilities as leaders in a wide range of industries and settings.

A Ph.D. in education is for those pursuing a career in education research or teaching within a college or university setting.

If you are wondering “What is a doctorate in education?” or have other doctoral degree-related questions,  visit our Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. page .

What Can I Do with a Doctorate in Education?

Ed.D. programs typically explore advanced management practices, leadership theory, the science and structure of organizations, and curriculum development. While students may apply these subjects to education, they are not limited to this field. The range of curricular topics prepares many Ed.D. graduates to advance in their current positions or seek out new leadership opportunities across industries.

The Peabody Online Ed.D. places a unique emphasis on organizational leadership . The program focuses on three core areas: leadership theory and practice, learning and design, and data analytics. Students examine these subjects as they apply to any organization, be it a higher education institution, a private company, a nonprofit, or a community group. Grounded in theory and practice, this focused study empowers graduates to improve outcomes within any organizational system.

Ed.D. Career Options

Graduates may advance in or enter fields such as:

• Public policy
• Human resources
• Health care
• Government and military
• Criminal justice

Students may advance in or rise into leadership roles such as:

• Chief learning officer
• Policymaker or analyst
• Educational consultant
• Director of human resources
• Training and development manager
• Academic dean
• Superintendent

Top executives, such as chief learning officers or school superintendents, have an annual median salary of $107,680. 3

Take the Next Step toward Advanced Leadership

Now is the time to start your Peabody Online application or request additional information. Scholarships are available.

The Peabody Ed.D. Online Experience

Students in the online Ed.D. complete 54 hours of course work across three areas of leadership and learning: leadership and organizational development, learning and design, and data and analytics . The course work is delivered through a sophisticated online platform and customizable tools that enable advanced collaboration, discussions, and learning.

Learn more about our unique Peabody Online experience .

Weekly Online Classes

Live, online classes led by the Peabody faculty serve as the starting point for engaging group discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and guided learning. The classes take place live on our online platform, allowing students to interact face-to-face no matter where they are.

The program is designed for established professionals. Classes are held weekly during the evening, Central Time, Monday through Thursday . Class attendance is required for all students.

Capstone Project

Using their knowledge and existing data, students identify a real-world organizational issue or problem of practice, test a solution, and make recommendations for long-term improvement. Students then present their projects in front of a faculty panel for assessment.

On-Campus Convenings

Convenings organized by Peabody Online bring students and instructors together, in person, for in-depth discussions, collaborative projects, and creative problem-solving exercises meant to demonstrate students’ new mastery of subject matter and leadership skills.

Students are required to attend three convenings throughout the duration of the program. Each on-campus convening takes place at Vanderbilt University’s campus in Nashville, Tennessee, and happens over the course of two days.

Hours of course work

Final capstone project

Renowned and Supportive Faculty

Our multi-disciplinary faculty members are experienced professionals and experts in their fields. They have designed a high-quality, insightful curriculum, and many serve as mentors who guide Ed.D. students toward success.

All Peabody faculty work toward the objective of helping students give back to their communities. Their dedication ensures that students feel supported as they take the next steps in their careers.

Learn more about our faculty and leadership.

Class Profile

The Peabody Online Ed.D. community comprises leaders from various industries and diverse personal, educational, and geographic backgrounds. Peabody Ed.D. students are inquisitive scholars: They value different perspectives and exchange knowledge with classmates in order to develop innovative solutions.

79 percent of students have 8 or more years of professional experience .

Students range from 25 to 68 years old, with a median age of 39.

States represented

Historically underrepre-sented 4

“I’m starting to see nuances and ideas connect that I didn’t know existed before. I think it’s making me a better not-for-profit leader , and I certainly think it’s making me a more thoughtful supervisor and program leader.”

Michael Hill, Ed.D. ’22 President of the Chautauqua Institution Washington, D.C.

About Peabody College

Founded in 1785, Peabody College of education and human development is known as a world-class research institution dedicated to education, policy, and public service. Ranked one of the nation’s best graduate schools of education in the country by U.S. News & World Report , Peabody College has a longstanding mission to make a meaningful difference in education and leadership. 1

Peabody College also offers graduate and doctoral degree programs on campus. Learn about our on-campus programs.

Get Started Now

Find out how Peabody Online can help you reach your ambitious career goals.

1 U.S. News & World Report ,  Best Education Schools in 2023 . (accessed July 2023) arrow_upward Return to footnote reference

2   Fortune, Best Online Doctorate in Education (EdD) Programs in 2022 . Accessed December 2022. arrow_upward Return to footnote reference

3 Bureau of Labor Statistics, Top Executives  (2020). Accessed May 2021. arrow_upward Return to footnote reference

4 African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Hispanic, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander arrow_upward Return to footnote reference

Top 10 Online PhD Programs in Online Teaching

Find your degree.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, online teaching jobs are projected to grow (along with all other professor positions) at a rate of 13% between 2014 and 2024; this is faster than any other job during that time period. This is likely because online learning has been growing steadily since it began and it is showing no signs of slowing down. Because of the changing landscape of education, there are more academic opportunities opening up for teachers who want to reach their students online.

Earning an Online Teaching Degree

Whether you are interested in teaching courses online at the university level or even online elementary teaching jobs, there are some very specific things that go into being a distance educator that don’t necessarily come into play when you’re solely working at a brick and mortar institution. Online teaching programs take those things into consideration and cover the skills that you’ll need in order to effectively deliver your curriculum and more.

Choosing to earn a PhD in online teaching takes that a step further. You can earn a degree in learning technology, which would help you to secure a job designing online learning software. You can choose to pursue a different focus area in online teaching such as researching the best methods for distance education delivery or online education policy. Programs that prepare students for teaching online are going to include courses like the following:

• Instructional Design for Online Learning
• Foundations of Online Learning
• Theory of Instructional Technology
• Theory and Practice of Distance Education
• Educational Technology Systems Design and Management

As the field of education continues to grow, there is a higher call for more highly educated teachers. Teachers with more education and from more diverse backgrounds, with more experience in research are more in-demand because they will be more apt to serve students from equally diverse backgrounds and foster their academic growth. For those of you who want to grow with the field, or are just looking to advance your knowledge in the career you already have, choosing to earn a PhD might be a great next step.

However, we understand what a huge undertaking it is to pursue the greatest academic honor in the nation. Earning a doctorate takes a lot of work, and when you’re already busy as a teacher or just a professional in the field of education, that can seem like a very daunting thing. However, choosing to earn your PhD in Online Teaching online can allay some of those worries.

Earning an online teaching degree from home on the web makes it, so you don’t have to relocate, you don’t have to quit your job, and very often, you won’t spend as much money. With that in mind, we chose to rank to Top 10 PhDs in Online Teaching . All of the schools featured were ranked according to the following.

Methodology

In order to rank the best online PhD programs in online teaching, we started by researching all of the schools in the country that offer relevant degrees. Because of the significant amount of overlap in educational doctorate programs, we chose to allow Doctor of Education degrees in this article as well as long as the school met our initial criteria. In order to be eligible, each school had to have proper accreditation, not operate as a for-profit institution, be based in the United States and had to offer at least one relevant program online whether fully-online or in a hybrid format.

Once we had collected a list of schools, we assigned them a score based on three factors:

• Freshman Retention Rate (⅓ of final score)
• Graduation Rate (⅓ of final score)
• Affordability (⅓ of final score)

Each factor could have an individual score of 100 points, which were then added together to get the composite score we used to rank each school. The maximum possible score was 300 points. We collected all of this information from the school’s website whenever possible. In some cases, we also used the databases of the National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. News & World Report , and Niche.com. All of the cost data used to calculate affordability and provide you with the sticker price for each school was collected from CollegeData.com. Once each school had a score, we placed them in order according to that score below. In the event that two schools received the same score, we used the alphabetical ordering of their names to determine their placement in the ranking.

We’d like to mention that no school we feature in this ranking or in any of our other pieces has been given preferential treatment of any kind. Some schools may not be present due to incomplete information or per their own request; however, the results we reached can be repeated by following the methodology above.

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on Educational Technology

The program is presented online, but there are three mandatory on-campus experiences. This includes a two-day orientation in the first semester, and four-day summer sessions at the end of your first and second year in the program. This degree is designed for those who already work in educational technology, regardless of in what capacity. It is designed to fit the needs of a diverse group of professionals.

You will be able to continue working full-time as you complete this online teaching doctorate at UF. It consists of 54 credits in total and could be completed in as little as three years. All of the courses are presented in eight-week sessions and cover topics like educational media, instructional design, educational technology, and more. This program requires a dissertation as well.

Doctor of Education in Instructional Systems Technology

This degree prepares you for leadership roles in designing instructional and performance technology. It does not require for you to be a licensed educator because this degree is applicable across other industries as well. You could see yourself applying this degree to work in e-learning development, instructional design, corporate training, and more.

You will take some mandatory courses such as Early Research Experience, Intermediate Statistics, and Learning and Cognition in Education. You will also take electives in Instructional Systems Technology and in a self-designed minor. The program culminates in a dissertation. All of the course materials are offered online, and there is only one face-to-face meeting required, which is for the IST Annual Conference held in the spring.

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Educational Technology

It consists of 60 credit hours and can be completed in just three years of full-time study. The only reported on-campus requirement is an orientation where you can meet the cohort you will progress through the program with. Then you will complete your coursework online. You’ll take classes like Applications of Learning Principles, Design, and Evaluation of Information Access and Delivery, and Management of Technology Resources.

The program’s curriculum is broken up into categories, so you will complete Core Curriculum & Instruction Courses, Education Technology concentration courses, Research courses, and Cognate courses. After completing all of the coursework, you will then prepare your dissertation. All of the classes in the program are condense down to just eight weeks each. You will also have the benefit of working with faculty that has extensive experience teaching online as you expand your knowledge of online teaching and develop more technological competence.

PhD in Learning Technologies

This online teaching degree is broken up into segments. First, you will complete the core courses that help you to understand the relationship between theory and technology in learning. The Topic courses focus on the field and cover a range of subjects like artificial intelligence, instructional systems design and implementation, and more. You also take Research courses which cover methods and data analysis and a Dissertation.

There is a component of the curriculum that is called Tools, and those classes cover current technologies used in the development of media and learning technologies. Students that have a Master of Science in a related field may be able to waive these courses, which shaves off nine required credits for graduation. It is also possible to include a minor or cognate in the program if you so choose.

Doctor of Education in Educational Technology

Financial aid is available for distance learners; however, there is no additional charge for out-of-state students, and this is one of the best values for online graduate education nationwide. The entire program is 66 credits and is presented in a cohort model. Cohorts are modest in size (typically 12 to 15 students), and they are admitted once per year in May.

Up to half of the required credits can be completed prior to entry to the program as part of a master’s program. You can not transfer any more than 33 credits into the program. As you study, you’ll take courses like Leadership in Educational Technology, Innovative Practices in Educational Technology, and a diverse range of research courses. The program culminates in a comprehensive exam and a dissertation. We’d like to add that while it is 100% online, there will be some synchronous elements.

PhD in Education with a concentration in Instructional Design and Technology

If you’re interested, you can also earn a Modeling and Simulation certificate in Education & Training as part of this degree program. This online teaching doctorate program is only open to those who have already earned a master’s degree. You will take some core classes in instructional design technology research and then have the freedom to choose courses in an area of focus that aligns with your professional goals. You will also be required to complete a dissertation.

The courses in this program are live and regularly scheduled, but the university is committed to flexibility. You can complete your assignments and access your course materials online from anywhere and work when it is convenient for you to do so. In addition to that, tuition is under $600 per credit hour. Some transfer courses may be allowed, but you will have to work with an advisor to determine if you have credits that will transfer.

PhD in Education with a concentration in Educational Technology and Online Learning

This degree will prepare you for leadership roles in K-12 online education, higher education distance learning, or even in a corporate learning environment. The program is a minimum of 75 credit hours and allows you to complete all of your coursework online in convenient eight-week sessions.

There are two one-week residencies required as part of the program; you will also complete a dissertation and may have to attend the campus in order to defend it. You will take classes like Research Design and Analysis, Instructional Design for Online Learning, Trends in Educational Technology, Educational Statistics, and more. Sessions start each May.

Doctor of Education in Instructional Systems Design and Technology

This is a fully-online program that is made up of 60 credits. Students are admitted each fall. The curriculum is broken into two components, which are an Instructional Systems Design and Technology core and an Educational Research core. You’ll take classes in Distance Learning, Instructional Planning, Educational Network Design, and Leadership in Technology Administration.

The curriculum also covers professional development as well as including an internship and field studies. You will complete a written and oral comprehensive examination after completing all of your courses, and then you will be required to complete a dissertation.

Doctor of Education in Leadership

The curriculum is composed of a Leadership Core and a Research Core, as well as 24 credits in your selected concentration area. Some examples of courses you could take as part of your specialized study in online learning include Differentiated Instruction, Instructional Theory and Design, and Assessment for Student Learning, along with many others. You will work with an advisor to select courses that both fulfill your degree requirements and align with your professional goals.

You will conduct research in your specialized study area throughout your entire academic experience at the university. You will also complete a comprehensive exam and prepare and defend a dissertation to earn your degree. You will have to complete three residency requirements as you study, each of them lasts for just two days and take place over the summer.

Doctor of Education in School Improvement

There is one on-campus requirement as part of this program, which is an intensive two-day orientation during the first summer that you’re in the program. There is a total of 60 credits required for graduation, and all transfer credits are subject to review. No maximum amount is detailed on the school’s website. The core curriculum covers topics in leadership, professional development, and school reform.

The Area of Concentration builds on that curriculum as appropriate. In the K-12 Online Teaching track, you will see courses like Instructional Design and Introduction to Distance Education. In the Instructional Technology track, you will take Instructional Design and Diffusion of Innovations. This program does require you to complete a dissertation. One thing that is unique about this program is that you will work on your dissertation along with your coursework instead of completing it afterward.

What Does Digital Learning Mean?

Digital learning is not something that is used to replace traditional methods of instruction but instead to enhance it. Instruction and educational materials that are augmented with technology are also used outside of academic settings as well. Digital learning is a key component of a lot of job training modules, professional development programs, and a range of other corporate applications.

This innovative method can be used in many different fields.

Why is Digital Learning Important?

One of the key reasons that digital learning is important is that it plays an important role in advancing school reform. This is true because implementing technology into instructional practice makes education more accessible and increases equity. More students being met with they are and reached with technology-augmented learning materials means that more students are being reached and being given the opportunity to learn, something that is fundamental to school reform.

Another reason that digital learning is important is that online teaching, educational games, and other tech-based components help keep students more engaged. These experiences tend to be more collaborative, and they can be more easily tailored to the needs of an individual student.

In the realm of professional development and corporate training, digital learning is important because it increases access to continuing education and high-quality training for professionals who otherwise wouldn’t have access. It helps people to draw connections between theory and application more easily, which leads to them grasping concepts more quickly; this ensures that the professionals who rely on this type of training, which are primarily educators at present, spend less time away from performing their jobs.

What Can I Do With an Educational Technology Degree?

Some of the classes that you may encounter as you work towards earning an educational technology degree, just as part of the core curriculum, would be Technology Curriculum and Planning, Research in Instructional Technology, Technology and Inquiry-Based Learning, and Managing Educational Technology Resources, as well as several other courses centered on the theory behind digital learning, and more. You have the chance, in most cases, to build on that with specializations. The possibilities are nearly endless, especially in a flexible doctorate program. Some areas you could choose to center your studies around could be Instructional Delivery System Development or Online Teaching.

Based on the routes you decide to take and your goals, you could see yourself working as an Instructional Coordinator, an online teacher, an eLearning Developer, Interface and Multimedia Designer, a training director, or even a Chief Learning Officer.

Is Online Education Better Than Traditional?

Online education is amazing because it increases accessibility, allowing more people to receive the high-quality education they deserve with fewer barriers. Online education also might be better for some students. If you’re someone who finds it difficult to pay attention in a traditional classroom setting, technology may be more engaging. You may also prefer to work in a more self-paced way. Distance learning allows you to do that, while still having the benefit of working with instructors who are experienced in online teaching. It is also nice to be able to study online because you don’t have to worry about relocating, commuting, or any of that.

While there are some awesome benefits to online learning, it’s true that it may not be for everyone. If you’re someone who isn’t very good at staying motivated on your own (it happens to the best of us!), you may find that the structure of showing up to a face-to-face class every day keeps you on track. Some people are also more collaborative learners so being able to have active discussions in person is great for them. However, we’d like to note that online learning does still offer a lot of opportunity for collaboration.

When it comes down to choosing if online learning is better, what matters is selecting what works best for your personal, academic needs.

What are Digital Tools for Students?

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Teaching, learning, and teacher education, doctor of philosophy (ph.d.), you are here, a doctoral program preparing education researchers, teacher educators, curriculum specialists, and instructional leaders..

The Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education focuses on the preparation of researchers and teacher educators in universities and colleges. Focal areas include teaching and learning, research and practice in teacher education, mathematics education, science education, and the study of urban education and urban contexts. 

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

The Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education focuses on the preparation of researchers in education. The program includes formal courses, mentored research, and informal seminars.  The program is designed to draw together coursework, research apprenticeship, and other professional academic activities to build a complete professional program that is tailored to your interests and needs.

Fall: 3; Spring: 3

Culminating experience Dissertation

Coursework and research experiences address a range of practice-based and theoretical problems in schools and community settings from sociopolitical, cultural, philosophical, psychological, and historical perspectives. Taking an interdisciplinary stance, faculty and students explore issues of equity, social justice, and educational change in a range of formal and informal educational settings. You will build a program of study that includes courses in teaching and learning, social foundations, and research methods.  Applicants interested in the focal area of literacy are encouraged to consider the doctoral program in Literacy Studies .

Field-based research and collaborative projects with practitioners in schools or other educational settings are key components of the program. The program is designed to draw together coursework, research apprenticeship, and other professional academic activities to build a complete professional program that is tailored to your interests and needs.

As a full-time Ph.D. student, you are expected to be in residence and participate in practicum activities, courses, and other academic experiences throughout the first two years, where you will be enrolled in 3 course units per semester. Coursework and experiences are arranged around three areas or strands, including specialization courses, research methods courses, and electives/professional experiences, as well as a set of core courses. For more information about courses and requirements, visit the  Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ph.D. program in the University Catalog .

Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC)

The RAC is part of the Professional Experiences strand and is designed to assist you in developing, conducting, and presenting your own original research. The course focuses on the research interests of the students and requires participation in the scheduling of activities, presentations, and directing part of the RAC agenda as it pertains to the collective needs of the group. Students from the different stages of the doctoral program will serve as mentors to one another, with faculty oversight. You will participate in the RAC beginning in the spring of your first year and continue participation until the completion of your dissertation.

Annual Self-Evaluation : Each year, doctoral students complete a Professional Self-Evaluation that is used as part of the ongoing evaluation and planning process. You are introduced to the evaluation form in the proseminar and will work on it in the spring Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC). The deadline for the Professional Self-evaluation falls in mid-autumn or mid-spring.

Qualifying Examination : The Qualifying Examination is taken by all doctoral students, most often at the end of the first year. Passing this exam is an important step in being admitted to program candidacy. In order to take the qualifying exam, you need to have completed the Doctoral Proseminar, Doctoral Foundations of Teaching and Learning, Education, Culture, and Society, 1 RAC, and 1 research methods course.

Program Candidacy : You are assessed for program candidacy after successfully completing the  Doctoral Proseminar, Doctoral Foundations of Teaching and Learning, Education, Culture, and Society, 1 RAC, and 1 research methods course, and passing the Qualifying Examination. You must be in good academic standing to receive program candidacy.

Preliminary Examination : The Preliminary Examination is taken after you have completed all courses and before you begin work on your dissertation. Passing the Preliminary Exam allows you to be admitted to doctoral candidacy. You may submit a Preliminary Exam from the start of the fall semester through April 1. A description of the Preliminary Exam is available from the Division Coordinator. 

Dissertation : To complete the Ph.D., you must design and undertake an original research study under the direction of your dissertation committee. Students should see Penn GSE and Penn-wide policies and speak with their advisor about the requirements of the dissertation.

Our Faculty

Affiliated Faculty

Ryan S. Baker Professor Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon University

Bodong Chen Associate Professor Ph.D., University of Toronto

Matthew Duvall Lecturer Ph.D., Drexel University

L. Michael Golden Executive Director, Catalyst @ Penn GSE Ed.D., University of Pennsylvania

Zachary Herrmann Adjunct Assistant Professor Ed.L.D., Harvard University

Charlotte E. Jacobs Director, Independent School Teaching Residency Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

Michael C. Johanek Senior Fellow Ed.D., Teachers College, Columbia University

Yasmin B. Kafai Lori and Michael Milken President’s Distinguished Professor Ed.D., Harvard University

Andrea M. Kane Professor of Practice, Education Leadership Ph.D., Northcentral University

Rand Quinn Associate Professor Ph.D., Stanford University

Sharon M. Ravitch Professor of Practice Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

Susan A. Yoon Graduate School of Education Presidential Professor Ph.D., University of Toronto

"Penn taught me, Penn GSE especially, that if you have the right combination of ingredients—commitment from the structure, mentors, and colleagues—then risk-taking, innovation, and progress will for sure ignite."

Justice Toshiba Walker

Our graduates.

Our graduates are prepared for research and academic careers in education, psychology, and related human services fields.

Alumni Careers

• Adjunct Professor, Moore College of Art and Design
• Assistant Professor of Special Education, Villanova University
• Assistant Professor, Montclair State University
• Assistant Professor, Utah State University
• Director, Out of School Time Resource Center
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Temple University

Admissions & Financial Aid

Please visit our Admissions and Financial Aid pages for specific information on the application requirements , as well as information on tuition, fees, financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

Graduate School of Education University of Pennsylvania 3700 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 898-6415 [email protected] [email protected]

Noemí Fernández Program Manager [email protected]

Please view information from our Admissions and Financial Aid Office for specific information on the cost of this program.

All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

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Collaboratory for Teacher Education

The Collaboratory for Teacher Education at Penn GSE is a laboratory for the design, implementation, and study of experimental approaches to teacher education.

Core Practice Consortium

The Core Practice Consortium brings together teacher educators from across institutions, disciplines, and theoretical perspectives to grapple with questions about how better to prepare novice teachers. 

Our Students

Current students in the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education program are researching a range of topics including mathematical practices, teacher education, maker-based project education, culturally responsive pedagogy, science education, and media making. 

View Doctoral Student Profiles

You May Be Interested In

Related programs.

• Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D.
• Reading/Writing/Literacy Ph.D.
• Reading/Writing/Literacy Ed.D.
• Learning Sciences and Technologies M.S.Ed.
• Teaching, Learning, and Leadership M.S.Ed.
• Education, Culture, and Society Ph.D.

Related Topics

Online Master's in Education

Contact Information

Connect with program staff.

If you have program-specific questions, please contact OEL Assistant Director Nicole Barone . 

Upcoming OEL Virtual Information Sessions

• Monday, November 20, 7–8 p.m. ET

Additional Information

• Download the Master's Viewbook
• Admissions & Aid

Today’s education landscape needs leaders like you — dynamic educators and innovators committed to making sustainable and scalable change for all students by building on your professional experience in PreK–12 classrooms and districts; on college and university campuses; or in philanthropies, nonprofits, policy organizations, and ed-tech initiatives.

That’s why the Harvard Graduate School of Education launched an online Master's in Education Leadership, a two-year, part-time Ed.M. program with Higher Education and PreK-12 pathways specifically designed for working education professionals who bring at least seven years of relevant or transferrable work experience. The program will strengthen the invaluable skills you’ve already developed and give you the tools to propel yourself to new leadership opportunities and to even greater impact.

“Skilled leadership is essential to creating opportunity and overcoming the longstanding inequities that create barriers to success. At HGSE, we are committed to helping you meet today’s complex challenges by becoming the type of leader education needs.” Bridget Long Dean and Saris Professor of Education and Economics Harvard Graduate School of Education

A New Option for Experienced Educators

The online Master's in Education Leadership from HGSE consists of a diverse cohort of professionals like you — leaders who are advancing in their careers, and who bring important perspectives grounded in real-world challenges. Our program is conducted almost exclusively online — except for one short on-campus experience, where you'll meet your cohort in person and build community prior to the start of the first fall semester.

The program offers a distinctive Harvard experience — including deep engagement and interaction with Harvard faculty and talented peers, as well as a lifelong professional network — within an intentionally designed curriculum and robust opportunities for mentorship and coaching. The program is career-embedded — so you can immediately apply what you are learning, in real time, to the work you are doing on the ground. 

Two Pathways: Higher Education and PreK–12

In the online Master’s in Education Leadership, you will choose between two Professional Pathways — Higher Education or PreK–12 — that align with the area of practice or the student community in which your work will make an impact. Students interested in advancing into senior leadership roles in colleges and universities, or in organizations that impact higher education, should study in the Higher Education Pathway . Students who want to do change-making work within the education ecosystem on behalf of students from early childhood to secondary education levels should select the PreK–12 Pathway .

Our prescribed curriculum is intentionally designed to meet your professional needs. It is anchored in both foundational knowledge and core competencies in education leadership related to the U.S. education system. You will also complete pathway-specific courses to advance your leadership in higher education or preK–12 education, as well as the Foundations courses. You will also have the opportunity to select courses from a small subset of electives. A minimum of 42 credits are required to graduate with an Ed.M. degree from HGSE.

The main elements of the curriculum are: 

Foundations Courses

Throughout the two-year program, you will participate in Foundations courses in four areas: How People Learn, Leading Change, Evidence, and Equity and Opportunity. In these courses, you’ll build core skills central to the profession of education.

• The online Ed.M. program commences with How People Learn, which runs online June–July and requires a time commitment of 10–15 hours per week.  
• You’ll participate in Equity and Opportunity, Evidence, and Leading Change throughout the two-year program.

Professional Pathways

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. Throughout the program, you will take both cross-pathway courses and pathway-specific courses. Cross-pathway courses will allow you to develop leadership skills that are important across sectors, as well as have discussions about how higher education and preK–12 can work more effectively together. Cross-pathway courses include:

• Real Talk: The Art and Practice of Communications 
• Strategic Finance for Nonprofit Leaders

Pathway-specific courses are directed to the knowledge and skills important for leadership in the Pathway professional setting. 

Elective Coursework

Students will have the opportunity to choose from a curated list of electives during the optional January terms, and during the fall and spring of their second year. Sample elective courses: 

• Law and Higher Education
• Leading a School through Challenge and Crisis   
• Race, Equity, and Leadership 
• Teaching Exceptional Learners in Inclusive Classrooms 
• Why Can’t Higher Education Change? 
• Writing Workshop   

Note: Though some courses may include comparative and international examples, applicants should expect a focus on leadership within U.S. domestic educational institutions and systems. 

Leadership Core Competencies

To help you manage, lead, and implement change in complex organizations, our curriculum explores the core leadership competencies that you'll need to elevate your skills, knowledge, and expertise, wherever you are in your career. Throughout your coursework, you will strengthen your ability to:

• Lead change and think strategically 
• Foster productive organizational conditions 
• Navigate politics and practice political inclusion
• Communicate effectively 
• Cultivate self-development and team professional development skills 

Higher Education Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The Higher Education Pathway prepares you to be a dynamic leader in a diverse range of postsecondary education contexts. It is designed to increase your knowledge of the practices, policies, processes, challenges, and opportunities in American postsecondary education. You will enhance your repertoire of strategies and management skills for tackling critical issues and introducing change — while preparing you to advance in your current career or move into other important leadership roles in higher education.  

Sample courses for the Higher Education Pathway: 

• Creating the Future of American Postsecondary Education 
• Higher Education Leadership & Governance 
• Student Affairs in Higher Education: Theory-Driven Practices to Help Students Thrive 

You will also have the opportunity to engage with accomplished leaders through HGSE’s unique President-in-Residence program. 

Students interested in the Higher Education Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles: 

• Colleges and universities, including in academic affairs, student affairs, admissions and enrollment management, advancement, and institutional research
• Nonprofit education organizations
• State and federal government agencies 
• Policy organizations focused on higher education

PreK–12 Pathway

All students will choose between the Higher Education and PreK–12 Pathways. The PreK–12 Pathway equips you to advance your leadership across the preK–12 landscape, including in such positions as teacher leader, principal, afterschool director, education agency representative, education nonprofit/philanthropic leader, or education entrepreneur.  

Sample courses for the PreK–12 Pathway: 

• Strategic Leadership in the PreK–12 Ecosystem 
• Creating Conditions for Effective School, Family, and Community Partnerships 
• Leading Learning

Students interested in the PreK-12 Pathway currently hold administrative and mid-level leadership roles in:

• PreK–12 schools, including as principals, assistant principals, and department heads
• Nonprofit education organizations (I.e., foundations, advocacy organizations, technical assistant organizations).
• Policy organizations focused on preK–12 education 

Projected Time Commitment

Courses combine synchronous meetings and asynchronous work and assignments. Live or synchronous aspects of required courses will occur on weekdays (Monday–Friday) between 6 and 9 p.m. ET . Some elective courses, outside the required curriculum, may be offered at alternative times. On average, this degree requires 12 to 18 hours of work per week, though the weekly commitment will vary by term, courses taken, and students' own work styles. Students can expect to spend approximately five to seven hours per week in synchronous online class sessions with faculty members and classmates. The remaining hours will be spent working independently on asynchronous class preparation, in self-scheduled small-group work with other students or working on assignments. 

Weekly Time Estimate

To complete the online Ed.M. in Education Leadership, students must complete 42 total credit hours of coursework over the two-year program. While the weekly time commitment varies, the graphic below provides a snapshot of the estimated weekly time commitment students may experience during the fall and spring semesters, when they will typically take 8 credits, the equivalent of two courses . 

Synchronous

Includes live, scheduled sessions with faculty members and other students.

Asynchronous

Self-paced activities, discussion posts, and other course-related work.

Assignments

Readings, projects, papers, research, etc.

Total Estimated Weekly Hours

Hours reflect estimates and vary by term, course, and student work style.

Occurs between Monday-Friday, according to a specific schedule.

Asynchronous work and assignments will have clear deadlines or milestones, but students can set their own schedules to complete this work. Note that there may be days or weeks during the semester that are busier than average, requiring more than the estimated time shown.

Program Faculty

The faculty co-chair for the Higher Education Pathway is Francesca Purcell . The faculty co-chair for the PreK–12 Pathway is Irvin Scott .

Faculty Co-Chairs

Francesca Purcell

Francesca Purcell is a specialist in higher education policy and practice, with expertise on topics including college completion, student transfer, and developmental education.

Irvin Leon Scott

A former teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, chief academic officer, and foundation leader, Irvin Scott's focus is on education leadership and faith-based education.

James P. Honan

Karen L. Mapp

Timothy Patrick McCarthy

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Alexis Redding

On-Campus Experience

Prior to kicking off your first fall semester, you will participate in the On-Campus Institute, an immersive experience on the HGSE campus in Cambridge. This will provide the opportunity to not only form deep relationships with your cohort, but also learn together with the faculty and advisers with whom you will spend two years. The immersive residential experience is a core component to the two-year degree program that is required of all students in the program. 

Over several days in late July and/or early August, you and your fellow peers will discuss your professional experiences and examine some of the persistent challenges in your organizations. You will immerse yourself in rich exercises and community building, set expectations of what it means to be in a rigorous HGSE degree program, and set intentions for yourself, your cohort, and your course of study. 

Career Pathways

The Master's in Education Leadership Program prepares you to advance to a senior leadership role in a variety of career pathways, including:

• Academic affairs 
• Admissions and financial aid
• Development
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Institutional research
• Student affairs

PreK-12 Pathway

• Education entrepreneur
• Executive director for an education nonprofit
• Principal* or head of school 
• Program officer for a foundation 
• School department head
• School designer and developer
• School district or network leader
• Teacher leader

Overall Program

• Education nonprofit CEO/COO 
• Educational advocate and organizer 
• Entrepreneur 

*Note: This program is not able to provide principal certification at this time.

Introduce Yourself

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Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Online Master's in Education experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

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Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

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Updated January 2, 2024

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Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

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AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org 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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A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is the highest level of academic degree that you can attain. Consisting primarily of research, a Ph.D. prepares you for a career in academia or research in the field you study.

Students who choose to pursue a Ph.D. online will find it can be completed in less time. Online students also get the added benefit of being able to complete their work from the comfort of home. The overall cost may also be less compared to an in-person program.

We've compiled a list of the best accredited online Ph.D. programs to help you start your search.

Are Online Ph.D. Programs Worth It?

An online Ph.D. program is an ideal choice if you want to balance your career and family responsibilities along with your education.

While there are some preconceived notions that online programs aren't legitimate, as long as the program you choose is accredited, the degree is the same as one earned in person.

While the annual tuition cost to earn a Ph.D. online averages $12,394 for a public institution and $26,621 for a private university, doctoral graduates enjoy a lower unemployment rate and higher weekly salary than those with less education, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Did You Know...

• According to the BLS , workers with a doctoral degree earned a median of $651 more per week than workers with a bachelor's degree in 2022.
• Doctorate-holders boast some of the lowest unemployment rates at 1%.
• In 2019, research found that 39.8% of graduate students were enrolled in online learning.
• The number of doctorates awarded between 2020 and 2021 dropped by 5.4%.
• Not all Ph.D.-holders end up working in academia.

Explore Our Featured Online Doctoral Programs

Top schools for online accredited ph.d. programs.

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org 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. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

Capitol Technology University

• Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: In-State | $950 Out-of-State | $950

Credits to Graduate: 60

Founded in 1927, Capitol Technology University features 40 doctoral programs, which you can complete online. Majors include aeronautical science, artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, military leadership, occupation risk management, and supply chain management. 

Programs require about 60 credits, but you can choose from a doctoral degree without any research requirements. Coursework focuses on doctoral research, proposal writing, and oral defense. Capitol also offers a dual master's and Ph.D. in technology combination program. 

Admission requirements vary, but generally you need a master's degree in a related major and five years of work experience.

Clemson University

• Clemson, SC

Cost per Credit: In-State | $515-$1,319 Out-of-State | $515-$1,319

Clemson's graduate catalog features 52 doctoral programs with the flexibility to study on campus, online, or in a hybrid format. Fields like digital history, entomology, genetics, or business administration offer on-campus programs for traditional doctoral students. You have the opportunity to study virtually in nine doctoral programs, including nursing, educational leadership, and parks, recreation and tourism management.

To obtain a doctoral degree, candidates must complete approximately 60 credits over a span of 3-5 years and successfully defend their dissertation.

Keiser University

• Fort Lauderdale, FL

Total Cost: In-State | $31,712 Out-of-State | $31,712

Keiser University, which was established in 1977, offers 19 flexible doctoral degrees. You can attend classes on the 100-acre main campus or study at one of 23 satellite campuses. Programs offer evening, online, and daytime courses. Keiser's “student first” policy lets you take 1-2 classes at a time, depending on your availability. It takes about 2-5 years to earn your doctoral degree.

To apply for a doctoral program, you need to submit your master's or doctoral transcripts, a resume, personal statement, and an application with a fee.

Mississippi State University

• Mississippi State, MS

Cost per Credit: In-State | $537 Out-of-State | $1,074-$1,468

Credits to Graduate: 60-65

The public research university MSU, which began admitting students in 1880 as an Agricultural and Mechanical College, now boasts 71 doctoral degrees, including 15 virtual programs. Ph.D. programs include engineering, computer science, agricultural sciences, mathematical sciences, and educational leadership. In addition to coursework, you'll need to complete a dissertation and defense on an independent research topic.

As a doctoral candidate, you can access ample research opportunities. The Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station runs 16 stations throughout the state. Applicants need a recommended 3.4 GPA for their master's-level coursework.

Nova Southeastern University

Cost per Credit: In-State | $969-$1,386 Out-of-State | $969-$1,386

Credits to Graduate: 51-64

Nova Southeastern University, the largest private research university in Florida, boasts 14 colleges and 11 campuses. NSU offers 37 doctoral programs, with 19 of them available online. Earn a doctoral degree online in subjects such as criminal justice, computer science, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology. 

Departments such as the NSU Fischler College of Education and the School of Criminal Justice offer dissertation resources, including templates and mentor support. Each program sets distinct admission requirements, but you generally need a master's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Old Dominion University

• Norfolk, VA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $599 Out-of-State | $1,439

Credits to Graduate: 31-60 

Old Dominion University offers 10 online doctoral programs through its seven colleges and three schools. The program covers a range of subjects such as nursing, community college leadership, educational leadership, engineering management, English, instruction design and technology, and workforce and organizational development. 

Admission requirements vary across programs. For instance, the Ph.D. in business administration requires GMAT or GRE scores, while the Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction asks applicants to submit master's transcripts, an essay, and three references.

Saybrook University

• Pasadena, CA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $1,416-$1,590 Out-of-State | $1,416-$1,590

Credits to Graduate: 54-76

Offering hybrid online degrees since 1970, Saybrook University now delivers 11 online doctoral degrees. You can earn a doctoral degree completely online or in a hybrid format with a low-residency option.

Doctoral students can pursue studies in counseling, integrative social work, organizational systems, mind-body medicine, integrative and functional nutrition, psychology, and wellness. To get admitted, you need at least a master's degree. And you complete up to 76 credits over about 4-5 years.

Texas Tech University

• Lubbock, TX

Cost per Semester: In-State | $2,107-$6,877 Out-of-State | $2,107-$6,877

Credits to Graduate: 60-96

Created in 1923, Texas Tech's 13 colleges and schools offer 98 doctoral degrees. Texas Tech offers doctoral degrees in agricultural and applied economics, animal science, computer science, curriculum and instruction, and special education. 

Many of the doctoral programs, such as the Ph.D. in psychology and Ph.D. in wind science and engineering, offer STEM OPT Extension eligibility to extend your F-1 visa for up to two years. Programs require about 60 credits on average and a dissertation. Depending on the program, you may need to submit GRE scores to apply.

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.

We rank schools using factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation .

For this page, we created a directory of online accredited Ph.D. programs that meet our criteria. The list is organized alphabetically rather than ranked.

Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page .

Does Accreditation Matter for Online Ph.D. Programs?

A college is accredited after being recognized by an independent institution that verifies the school's courses and programs meet set quality standards.

The school you choose must be accredited in order for your Ph.D. to be recognized by employers , earn professional licensures, and qualify you for federal financial aid.

Legitimate accreditors are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. Cost?

In general, you can expect to pay around $13,000-$30,000 per year in tuition and fees for your online Ph.D.

Several factors affect how much your Ph.D. program will cost, including:

• Whether the program is fully funded
• Whether your school is public or private
• Whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student
• How long your program lasts (most Ph.D. programs take 5-7 years to complete)
• How much financial aid you get

While many in-person and online doctoral programs in the U.S. are fully funded, these tend to be highly competitive.

One way to save money on your online Ph.D. is to attend a program that offers in-state tuition to residents. Make sure you submit the FAFSA each year so you can secure federal financial aid .

You may also need to budget for occasional travel to and from campus and research sites, especially as you work on your dissertation.

What's the Difference Between a Ph.D. and a Doctorate?

While a Ph.D. and a doctoral degree, or doctorate, both signify the same level of education completed, their uses are different.

Doctorate is the broader term — a Ph.D. is a type of doctorate. Specifically, a Ph.D. is an academic degree that prepares you for a career in research or teaching in your field of study (such as science, English, or economics).

Besides a Ph.D., other types of doctorates include a doctor of medicine (MD), a doctor of education (Ed.D.), and a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). These degrees are typically used in either an academic or professional setting.

Online Ph.D. Programs That Don't Require a Dissertation

A dissertation is a final written project culminating in a student's original research at the end of their Ph.D. program. A dissertation is typically presented and defended by its author. It's typically required for degrees with an academic or research focus.

Not all Ph.D. programs require a dissertation. For example, some Ph.D. programs in humanities, education, business administration, and criminal justice require simple or no dissertations for a quicker completion time .

What Jobs Can You Get After Earning an Online Ph.D.?

Once you finish your online doctoral program, you can explore a variety of career paths both within and outside academia.

Many Ph.D. graduates, especially those who studied the humanities, go on to become professors. Other popular roles include administrator, scientist, and psychologist.

Graduates of online Ph.D. programs earn a relatively high average base salary of $105,000 a year, according to Payscale .

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs

• Collapse All

What is the quickest Ph.D. to get?

The quickest Ph.D. to earn are those that award professional degrees and don't require extensive research projects or dissertations at completion. These Ph.D. programs can include accounting, business, education, and media.

To finish your degree faster, you can also look for accelerated programs that quicken the pace of a program and shorten the time it takes to complete.

Are online doctoral programs legit?

If the online doctoral program is accredited, it is legitimate. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the rigorous educational standards of other comparative doctoral programs.

With accreditation, employers and other institutions of higher learning will recognize your degree. As more universities turn toward online programs to serve a more diverse student population, there are a growing number of legitimate, accredited online Ph.D. programs.

How long are online Ph.D. programs?

Online Ph.D. programs, like any other doctoral program, can vary in length but typically take 5-7 years to complete. A doctoral degree balances coursework with research. Usually, students must meet a certain number of course requirements before they can start original research.

While coursework may take only a year or two, writing a dissertation that meets the program requirements varies from candidate to candidate.

Can I earn my Ph.D. entirely online?

Yes, many accredited colleges and universities offer 100% online Ph.D. programs. That said, some programs may require on-campus experiences, such as library research and a dissertation defense.

What do employers think of online doctoral programs?

It takes a high level of discipline and persistence to obtain a graduate degree, no matter the context. Most employers will recognize and value the hard work it takes to get a Ph.D., whether you completed your doctorate online or in person.

Make sure you research potential programs. If you're attending an accredited, well-regarded school, employers will value your online Ph.D. just as much as a traditional one.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed November 20, 2023.

Popular Resources

Whether you’re looking to earn your online degree or you’re a parent looking for answers, you can find all of your questions covered here. Explore these resources to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever is thrown your way.

Shape your future with an online degree

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.

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• CORRESPONDENCE
• 02 April 2024

How can we make PhD training fit for the modern world? Broaden its philosophical foundations

• Ganesh Alagarasan 0

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Tirupati, India.

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You have highlighted how PhD training assessment has stagnated, despite evolving educational methodologies (see Nature 613 , 414 (2023) and Nature 627 , 244; 2024 ). In particular, you note the mismatch between the current PhD journey and the multifaceted demands of modern research and societal challenges.

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doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00969-x

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The ‘Hidden Curriculum’ of Mental Health in Higher Education

• Posted April 1, 2024
• By Ryan Nagelhout
• Career and Lifelong Learning
• Counseling and Mental Health
• Higher Education Leadership
• Student Achievement and Outcomes

As mental health remains a crucial and evolving aspect of teaching students across all levels of education, Professional Education at HGSE has developed programming to help educators evaluate the institutional supports and programs behind caring for student mental health.

One of those programs, Mental Health in Higher Education: A Theory-to-Practice Approach for Student Well-Being , aims to confront the complex challenge managing student mental health presents in higher education. Led by Lecturer Alexis Redding , the four-week virtual institute features a theory-grounded approach to mental health topics in an effort to provide educators clarity around the wide variety of mental health challenges seen in student populations.

“One of the principles of our program is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to the college mental health crisis,” says Redding, faculty co-chair of HGSE’s higher education concentration. “Instead, we will give our participants the opportunity to learn from experts in the field who each offer a set of key questions to consider as they craft a tailored solution to meet the need at their home institution.”

Redding explained one of the goals of the curriculum is to bring “a new approach to thinking about student well-being” by using experts across a variety of educational disciplines. Rather than present a uniform set of solutions, the programming offers “a set of key questions to consider” that will help educators find solutions that match their own culture, existing programming, and resources available.

The program features a long list of education experts, including HGSE faculty such as Senior Lecturer Richard Weissbourd , director of Making Caring Common, and Emily Weinstein , executive director and co-founder of the Center for Digital Thriving. Other guests providing insight for the program include the Jed Foundation Chief Medical Officer Laura Erickson-Schroth, faculty director of Boston University’s Newbury Center Anthony Jack and Ball State professor and author Amanda Latz.

“When you look at our faculty, every person has an entirely different vantage point on student mental health and will help us consider a different aspect of the student journey,” Redding says. “We will follow the arc of what students experience from before they even get to college through the job search and graduation. Along the way, we will think critically about the issue of belonging on campus, basic needs security, and students who have been traditionally underserved.”

The vast perspectives considered, and mental health factors explored, allow participants to go beyond the numbers and data to gain new insights and avoid the “hidden curriculum” — assumptions of common knowledge about mental health that can create barriers between educators and student needs.

“This approach will allow them to create solutions that fit their institutional culture, existing programming, and the availability of resources,” Redding said. “Every participant will leave the program with a concrete set of questions to ask related to each of our topics, resources to use, and models of practice that they can consider for inspiration.”

Registration for Mental Health in Higher Education closes on April 10.

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Statistics PhD Program

Fall 2024 courses, important dates.

        First day of classes: Monday, August 26, 2024

        No classes (Labor Day): Monday, September 2, 2024

        No BST classes (Thanksgiving): Wednesday, November 27 - Friday, November 29, 2024

        Last day of classes : Monday, December 9, 2024

        Final exam period : Friday, December 13 - Wednesday, December 18, 2024

**Please check back later for course meeting times and locations.**

Course Offerings

For students matriculated in the Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology      BST 590 - Supervised Teaching      BST 591 - Reading Course at the PhD Level*      BST 592 - Supervised Statistical Consulting         BST 595 - Research at the PhD Level       BST 999 - Doctoral Dissertation * maximum of 6 credits per BST 591 course

Please direct questions to: [email protected]

Last updated: April 4, 2024

• OU Homepage
• The University of Oklahoma

Online Bachelor’s in Learning & Education Studies | OU Online

Online B.A. in Learning and Education Studies

Use your passion for education to support growth and development in others., transfer 60-90 ch, 5 start dates, excel in an industry with strong demand.

With teacher shortages ongoing in Oklahoma and across the country, there is a high demand for skilled educators passionate about making a difference in students' lives. OU’s Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a major in Learning and Education Studies is a 100% online program that prepares you to excel in a field with critical demand in the workforce. Designed for students who are a minimum of five years post high school/GED or at least 25 years of age and have already completed at least 60 hours of college credit, the learning and education studies program makes finishing your degree and reaching your career goals a possibility.

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Admission deadline.

Rolling admissions (applications due 14 days before the intended start date).

Program Start Terms

Fall, Spring, Summer

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Benefits of the Learning and Education Studies Bachelor’s Degree

Finish what you started.

Finish your degree and reach your career goals with a first-class education from the University of Oklahoma. Our flexible online format allows you to complete assignments on your own schedule, leaving more time for what matters to you most. You’ll have support from our experienced faculty and advisors every step of the way.

Strong Career Growth

Oklahoma, along with many other states nationwide, is experiencing teacher shortages. Earning a bachelor’s degree in learning and education studies will prepare you to fill a critical need in the workforce. Your degree will also qualify you to seek certification, setting you up for further career advancement.

PRIOR LEARNING AND TRANSFER CREDIT

In addition to a generous transfer credit policy, your professional credentials may translate into college credit. Prior learning credit is awarded for college-level learning, balancing theory, and practical application appropriate to the subject. Talk to an enrollment coach about how your past college credits and work credentials can save you time and money.

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OU Online graduates find employment within six months after graduation

OU Online graduates report earning an annual salary of $75,000 or more

OU Online students say the skills they gained in their program made them more competitive in their career field

Pursue Your Learning and Education Studies Degree

Take the next step in your career with a degree from the University of Oklahoma. Applications are reviewed year-round for fall, spring, and summer sessions. Choose your program, choose your start, and apply today.

Program Breakdown

The online Learning and Education Studies bachelor’s degree is designed to accommodate working adults seeking careers in PK-12 education. Offered by the OU College of Professional and Continuing Studies in partnership with the Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education, the program focuses on teaching effective leadership strategies while deepening your understanding of education, instruction, and various learning environments. You can immediately apply what you are learning in class to the educational context in which you currently work. The degree will prepare you to seek alternative teaching certification or go on to pursue a master’s degree.

When admitted into the program, you will be assigned an advisor who creates an individualized graduation plan. This plan will help organize and identify the courses you need for your degree. These courses will total credit hours completed at the upper division (3000-4000).

Manageable Accelerated Courses

All undergraduate courses in this program are eight weeks long. Most students take four courses (or 12 credit hours) a semester – two classes in the first half of the semester and two in the second half. The number of credit hours you take each semester should be discussed with your advisor and reflective of your personal and work schedules.

• Effective Communication
• Digital Literacy & Data Analysis
• Critical Inquiry in Interdisciplinary Studies
• Innovative Problem-Solving
• Portfolio in Interdisciplinary Studies
• Introduction to Education
• Development, Motivation, and Learning
• Learning Environments for Diverse Learners
• Scaffolded Instruction for All Learners
• Introduction to Instruction

How to Apply

To apply, students must:

• Complete the online application at attend.ou.edu
• Be a minimum of five years post high school graduation/GED or at least 25 years of age by the first day of class
• Have at least 60 college credit hours completed
• Have at least a 2.0 GPA
• Provide official college transcripts from all institutions
• International students must demonstrate English proficiency

The admissions committee operates under a rolling admission process, and admissions may continue until two weeks before classes start. The committee strives to respond to all applicants within two weeks of submitting a completed application.

For more information on the admissions process or to request a transfer credit evaluation, please  schedule a call , and an enrollment coach will be in touch shortly.

If you would like to explore resources to help pay for your degree or compare the estimated cost of your program with a typical financial aid package, use the  cost calculator  on our OU Online financial aid page. 

“ Students who are committed to the field of education and developing a deep understanding of supporting student learning are the inspiration for what I do. I will never grow tired of working alongside those who seek to empower themselves and others through igniting curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge. ”

Kelly Feille, Program Director

Same Academic Excellence

Like every OU Online program, the Learning and Education Studies bachelor’s degree is built on the foundation of world-class University of Oklahoma faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

Online Bachelor's Degree FAQ

Yes. The University of Oklahoma’s bachelor’s programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and are created by university staff and faculty. Graduates of online programs receive the same degree designation as students who attend classes on campus. Your diploma will be a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Oklahoma.

All OU Online degree programs are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.*

*Note:  Degrees also AACSB-accredited specify so in their corresponding program webpage. OU Online’s B.A. in Integrative Studies and B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies degrees (Organizational Leadership, Business Administration, Healthcare Management, etc.) are not accredited by the AACSB.

To be admitted to an online bachelor’s degree program, students: 

• Must be a minimum of five years post high school graduation/GED OR at least 25 years of age by the first day of class
• Must have at least 60 college credit hours completed
• Must have at least a 2.0 GPA
• Complete the online application at  attend.ou.edu
• Provide official college transcripts from all institutions 

Once OU receives all materials, we will begin processing your application. Admissions will email a decision letter to the address listed on the application. The average processing time is 2-3 business days. 

For more information on the admissions process or to request a transfer credit evaluation, please schedule a call, and an admissions counselor will be in touch shortly.

If you do not meet the adult degree completion admissions requirements, the University of Oklahoma offers other degree programs that might be right for you. Schedule a visit with an enrollment coach to discuss your options.

No. Applicants should have at least 60 college credit hours completed, but they do not need an associate degree to be admitted.

Our programs are offered year-round and in eight-week increments. We offer five start dates, with opportunities to begin taking classes in the fall (August or October), spring (January or March), and summer (June).

All programs have a rolling admissions process; however, applicants are encouraged to have their completed applications submitted a minimum of two weeks prior to the start date they intend to begin. Your application is considered complete when we have received official transcripts from all institutions you have attended (academic and military, if applicable). We require a separate transcript from each institution.

Once you apply, we welcome you to submit your information to our  Online Transcript Request Form , and we will attempt to order official transcripts from all prior institutions for you. Some institutions do not allow third-party transcript requests. In those cases, you will be contacted and asked to order the official transcript .

To be considered official, transcripts must be enclosed in a sealed envelope and mailed directly from the institution you attended to the following address : 

The University of Oklahoma OU Online Attn: Incoming Transcripts  1610 Asp Avenue, Room 108  Norman, OK 73072 

Transcripts may be submitted electronically as long as they are sent directly from the institution you attended to  [email protected] . Unfortunately, transcripts submitted through any other method of delivery can’t be accepted as official.

If you would like to compare the estimated cost of your program with a typical financial aid package, you can use the cost calculator on our OU Online financial aid page .

Have Questions?

OU Online has a friendly and knowledgeable team of enrollment coaches ready to guide you through the admissions process. Browse the calendar and schedule a one-on-one meeting that fits your schedule, and an enrollment coach will help answer your questions. 

Schedule a Call

An Investment in Your Future

Earning a bachelor’s degree can lead to a 49% increase in salary or more, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The online learning and education studies bachelor’s degree is an investment in yourself, as you’ll follow curriculum designed to prepare you to further your career in education. You’ll also gain an expanded professional network as part of the global OU alumni community.

The program requires 120 credit hours to graduate, and 60-90 of those hours can be transferred to OU from other institutions. For example, if a student transfers in 90 credit hours, only 30 hours at OU are required to complete the degree. At $500 per credit hour, the cost to that student would be $15,000.

Total cost for the degree is $15,000-$30,000, depending on the number of transfer credits.

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Why OU Online?

We are a top-tier public institution offering high-quality, affordable, professional undergraduate and graduate programs committed to maintaining academic excellence online.

Our Online Programs

Every OU Online program is built on the foundation of world-class faculty mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

Our OU Family

When you graduate from an OU Online program, you’ll join the network of 250,000 OU alumni and be forever part of the OU family. Become part of the tradition of excellence that OU has established in its 130-year history.

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• About NC State

Winners Named for 2024 Graduate Research Symposium

Nearly 200 NC State graduate students presented their research projects during the 17th annual Graduate Student Research Symposium held at the McKimmon Center on April 3. Co-sponsored at NC State by the Graduate School and Graduate Student Association , the research symposium is the signature event of Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week and recognizes the importance of graduate education and research to the university’s mission.

This year 27 graduate students were selected as top performers after being evaluated on the quality of their research, the effectiveness of their poster presentation, their oral communication skills, and the creativity and aesthetic appeal of their poster.

“The Symposium is a true showcase of talent at the graduate level here at NC State,” said David Shafer, Assistant Dean for Outreach and Recruitment. “It’s always amazing to see the vast variety of work going on at the graduate level—listening to the presenters interact with each other, the judges and often communicating their work to those in totally different fields than their own.” 

Abstracts for all student posters can be found online: 2024 symposium abstracts .

All winners receive a plaque and a cash prize. First place winners receive $500; second place, $350; and third place, $250.

Winners are listed below by discipline and department:

Agricultural Sciences First place, Esdras Carbajal, Crop Science Second place, Seongmin Park, Soil Science Third place, Laurie Pisciotta, Biological and Agricultural Engineering

Design First place, Paula León, Industrial Design Second place, Natalie Thibault, Industrial Design Third place, Maren Parsell, Doctor of Design

Education First place, Amanda JF Hall, STEM Education Second place, Tyler Harper-Gampp, Science Education Third place, Devan MacKenzie, Teacher Education and Learning Sciences

Engineering First place, Siena Mantooth, Biomedical Engineering Second place, Vinson Williams, Aerospace Engineering Third place, Ana Sheridan, Biomedical Engineering

Environmental Sciences First place, Munmun Basak, Forest Biomaterials Second place, Kazi Md Yasin Arafat, Forest Biomaterials Third place, Taylor Kanipe, Forest Biomaterials

Humanities First place, Allyson Gee, World Languages and Cultures Second place, Mandy Paige-Lovingood, Public History Third place, Rachel Suffern, History

Life Sciences First place, Chloe Mariant, Comparative Biomedical Sciences Second place, Glenn Jackson, Comparative Biomedical Sciences Third place, John Ivarsson, Nutrition

Mathematical and Physical Sciences First place, Melody Hancock, Bioinformatics Second place, Emmett Kendall, Statistics Third place, Jenna Berger, Chemistry

Social Sciences First place, Daniela Trujillo-Hassan, Anthropology Second place, Chris Boyer, Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management Third place, Yinman Zhong, Public Administration

• About NC State
• Graduate School
• graduate student association
• graduate student research symposium
• graduate students

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More From The Graduate School

Members of the GradPack Represent for NC State During Graduate Education Day at the NC General Assembly 

Winners Named for 2023 Research Symposium 

Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week