PhD in Education vs. EdD: How to Choose

There are numerous benefits to earning a doctorate degree in the field of education. For example, you can increase your earning potential, expand and strengthen your repertoire of skills, and distinguish yourself as a uniquely qualified candidate for a wider variety of roles. Two of the most prominent doctoral degrees in education are the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD-Ed) and Doctor of Education (EdD). Both offer unique paths, so how do you choose which is the best fit for your career goals?

Table of Contents

• What is a PhD in Education?
• What is a Doctor of Education (EdD)?
• Key Differences Between a PhD in Education and an EdD
• How to Choose Between a PhD and an EdD
• Explore Online PhD-Ed and EdD Degree Programs

This guide compares key aspects of the PhD-Ed and EdD to help you make an informed decision. It explains each program’s objectives, offers examples of typical coursework, discusses potential career paths for program graduates, and shares tips on choosing a degree that aligns with your interests and goals.

What is a PhD in Education? 

A Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD-Ed) is a terminal degree representing the highest level of education one can achieve in the field of education. Read on to learn more about the PhD-Ed, including: 

• The goals and objectives of a PhD-Ed program  
• Students most likely to benefit from a PhD-Ed program
• Examples of typical coursework, including a PhD-Ed dissertation
• Career paths to explore with a Doctor of Philosophy in Education 

Definition and Purpose

The PhD-Ed is a research-focused degree designed to deepen doctoral candidates’ theoretical knowledge in the field of education. Its primary goal is to equip students with the skills and expertise needed to conduct scholarly research, propose and test new theories, and critically evaluate existing theories, systems, or models. This degree prepares graduates to engage with advanced educational theories and methodologies, enabling them to make meaningful contributions through groundbreaking research.

Curriculum and Coursework 

The typical curriculum for a PhD-Ed program will emphasize quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, the assessment of theoretical frameworks, and advanced techniques for statistical analysis. Here are a few examples of courses and electives that students can expect to complete in National University’s PhD-Ed program: 

• Foundations of Academic Writing 
• Scholarly Literature Review 
• Applied Qualitative Analysis 
• Courses relevant to the student’s specialization track 

The program concludes with a dissertation, where candidates present and defend original research on a related topic of their choosing. The process begins with a course on dissertation components, followed by a formal proposal, data collection, review by the Institutional Review Board (IRB), and finally, the creation and presentation of the written manuscript. 

Intended Audience  

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the median age of those who complete their education doctorate is 38.8 years old. However, the target audience for the Doctor of Philosophy in Education is broad and diverse. National University’s accredited PhD-Ed program attracts doctoral candidates from all types of academic and professional backgrounds, from rising researchers and aspiring academics to graduates of our master’s programs like the Master of Education (MEd).

Compared to the EdD, which is targeted toward executives, administrators, and other professionals in the education sector, the PhD-Ed is more suited to students who aspire to become professors or enter into research positions.  

Career Paths  

Here are a few common career paths for graduates of PhD-Ed degree programs: 

• Director, executive, or researcher at an educational research institution
• Educational policy analyst for private organizations or public agencies 
• University or college professor 

What is a Doctor of Education (EdD)? 

In this section, we’ll cover a detailed overview of the Doctor of Education degree, including: 

• Definition and purpose of the Doctor of Education program.
• The types of learners and professionals EdD programs are designed to support.
• Examples of typical coursework and learning outcomes in an EdD program.
• Potential career paths and roles available to those with a Doctor of Education degree.

Definition and Purpose 

The EdD, or Doctor of Education, is designed to develop leaders who can implement practical strategies to improve educational institutions, addressing real-world challenges in diverse educational settings. From special education in public elementary schools to nursing education at private universities, the EdD focuses on actionable solutions and effective policymaking to enhance day-to-day operations in schools and educational services. Unlike the research-oriented PhD-Ed, the EdD emphasizes practical applications and leadership in education.

Curriculum and Coursework 

Although specific EdD curricula vary by school, programs generally include courses on leadership training, organizational theory, and applied research methods. The practical nature of the EdD degree emphasizes case studies and action research, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience in addressing relevant, real-world challenges. For example, educators analyze and respond to complex teaching scenarios and conduct action research, which the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics defines as an observation- and data-based investigation used to solve problems and improve professional practices within their own classrooms or institutions.

While some EdD programs conclude with a traditional dissertation, others require candidates to complete capstone projects. To graduate from the EdD program at National University, students must complete four 12-week course sequences: an applied doctoral introduction, an applied doctoral proposal, an Institutional Review Board (IRB) and data collection course, and finally, the submission and defense of an applied doctoral manuscript.

Intended Audience 

The typical EdD student already holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in or related to education, such as a Master of Education (MEd) or Master of Arts in Education (MAE). Most EdD programs are aimed toward education professionals, like school administrators, who have already begun to establish careers. However, an EdD can also benefit those wanting to transition or advance into specialized roles in driving educational reforms and improvements. 

Career Paths

Here are a few examples of potential career paths for EdD program graduates: 

• School superintendent or principal 
• Curriculum director 
• Educational consultant for public or private organizations 
• Higher education or PK-12 administrator  
• University provost or dean 
• Executive director of education 

Key Differences Between a PhD in Education and an EdD

The PhD-Ed and EdD are both advanced degrees in education, but they differ in focus and outcomes. Here’s a quick comparison to help you determine which path aligns with your goals:

PhD-Ed:

• Emphasis on research and theory
• Designed to contribute new knowledge to the field of education
• Prepares graduates for roles in academia, research, and policy development

EdD:

• Focus on leadership and practical application
• Aims to solve real-world challenges in educational settings
• Prepares graduates for leadership roles in schools, universities, and other educational organizations

By understanding these distinctions, you can choose the program that best supports your career aspirations.

Purpose and Goals

While both are doctorate education degrees, PhD-Ed and EdD programs have different objectives. PhD-Ed programs focus predominantly on research and are created for students who want to contribute new knowledge and scholarship to the field. By comparison, EdD programs focus on professional practice, teaching students to improve a school’s learner outcomes and refine education strategies. EdD programs prepare students to assume leadership roles and bring improvements to PK-12 school systems, while PhD-Ed programs empower students to analyze, challenge, and conduct research. 

Curriculum and Coursework

PhD-Ed programs emphasize mastering theoretical and empirical research techniques because of their research-intensive nature. For example, students in the PhD-Ed program at National University complete coursework in advanced qualitative and quantitative methodology, statistics and data collection, and scholarly literature review. EdD coursework, on the other hand, focuses on developing and applying practical, professional skills, such as leadership and problem-solving, in PK-12 schools or other educational settings. 

Both PhD-Ed and EdD students typically focus on one specialty area, such as early childhood education, organizational leadership, or social-emotional learning. Other examples of potential specializations include online teaching and learning, special education, or leadership in higher education. 

Research Requirements 

The expectation is for PhD-Ed students to conduct original research that introduces new concepts, challenges existing theories, or brings other innovations and advancements to the field. They then present this research as a dissertation, a long-form written manuscript that presents and defends original findings. 

EdD programs generally culminate in either a dissertation, capstone project, or applied research project. Regardless of which form the final project takes, it challenges students to distill and apply all of the concepts they’ve learned, proposing a practical solution to a specific problem impacting real schools. 

Career Outcomes 

PhD-Ed graduates often become researchers or pursue careers in academia, such as a professor at a college or university. On the other hand, those who earn their EdD typically enter leadership or administrative roles in higher education or PK-12 settings. 

For example, graduates of the EdD program at National University frequently enter positions as administrators, training and development specialists, educational counselors, or school social workers. Other potential career roles for an EdD holder include chief learning officer (CLO), school superintendent, or becoming the principal of an elementary, middle, or high school. 

How to Choose Between a PhD and an EdD

The PhD-Ed and EdD are both promising avenues to explore for those who want to pursue careers in PK-12 or higher education. However, both programs have major differences — not only in terms of the coursework involved but also the time commitment and other logistical details. Let’s review some key factors to consider when determining whether the EdD or PhD-Ed is right for you. 

Career Goals 

Your long-term professional goals are an important deciding factor when choosing between an EdD and PhD-Ed. If you’re passionate about pursuing leadership or executive roles that allow you to shape and implement policy, an EdD program is likely to be the better fit. On the other hand, a PhD-Ed may be more aligned with your goals if you aspire to a career in academia or want to become a researcher. 

Interest in Research vs. Practice 

When choosing between a PhD-Ed and an EdD, consider both your professional goals and personal strengths. A PhD-Ed program might align better with your goals if you’re passionate about conducting research, analyzing data, and contributing to educational theory. On the other hand, if you’re motivated to lead organizations and address real-world challenges in education, an EdD could be the more rewarding choice.

Program Format and Flexibility  

Because they’re designed for working professionals, EdD programs typically offer more flexible formats than PhD programs. But at National University, you’ll find convenient learning options no matter which program you choose. With part-time, full-time, online, on-campus, and accelerated study options, National University empowers students to chart their own paths, at their own pace. Learn more about how National University makes it simpler and more accessible to earn your doctorate degree.

Time Commitment

Due to their dissertation component and comprehensive research requirements, Doctor of Philosophy programs may take longer to complete than other types of doctorates. However, program length is dependent on factors like credit requirements, accelerated study, and whether you study full-time. For instance, the PhD-Ed at National University is a 20-course, 60-credit program that generally takes students around 37 months to complete. The average completion time for the EdD program, which includes 16 courses covering 48 credit hours, is typically closer to 33 months. 

Before applying to an EdD or PhD-Ed program, it’s important to thoroughly research your academic options and the availability of grants, scholarships, or other sources of funding. Consider speaking with current students or alumni, along with professionals in your target field, to gain additional insights into what to expect and how to prepare. Most importantly, review the curriculum and coursework carefully to determine which program is better aligned with your interests. 

Explore Online PhD-Ed and EdD Degree Programs at National University 

Develop specialized skills, broaden your professional network, and advance your career in education by earning your doctorate degree. With dozens of accredited doctoral programs to choose from, including degrees that can be completed 100% online, National University provides options to fit every student’s interests and goals. 

Ready to take the next step in your educational journey? Whether you’re passionate about conducting groundbreaking research or driving impactful change as a leader in education, National University’s Sanford College of Education (SCOE) offers PhD-Ed and EdD programs designed to help you achieve your goals. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about how our flexible programs can fit your unique personal and professional aspirations. When you’re ready to apply, getting started online is simple and convenient!