Online Education Doctoral Programs

27 January 2023

An online education doctoral program is a graduate-level program that allows students to earn a Doctor of Education (EdD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education degree through online coursework and remote learning. The Online Education Doctoral Programs are designed for individuals who wish to advance their careers in education and research and are typically focused on specific areas such as educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, higher education, educational technology, and online learning.

Online education doctoral programs offer a flexible and convenient way for working professionals and students who are not able to attend traditional on-campus programs to pursue advanced education. These programs typically use a variety of online learning tools such as video conferencing, discussion boards, and online resources, to deliver course content and facilitate student-to-student and student-to-faculty interaction.

Online education doctoral programs are becoming increasingly popular as more institutions are offering them and are seen as a way to meet the growing demand for advanced education professionals in the field of education. The program’s curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of their chosen field of study and to develop skills in research, analysis, and problem-solving, with an emphasis on the application of knowledge to real-world educational issues.

Different Types of Education Doctoral Programs

There are many online education doctoral programs available, some of which include:

  • EdD in Educational Leadership and Administration
  • EdD in Curriculum and Instruction
  • EdD in Higher Education Leadership
  • EdD in Educational Technology
  • PhD in Education with a specialization in online learning
  • PhD in Instructional Design and Technology
  • PhD in Distance Education

Best Education Doctoral Programs

It is subjective to determine the “best” online education doctoral programs as it depends on individual needs and preferences. However, some of the highly reputable and well-established universities that offer online education doctoral programs include:

  • Harvard University
  • Stanford University
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of Florida
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • Fielding Graduate University
  • Walden University

What are the requirements of online education doctoral program?

The specific requirements for online education doctoral programs can vary depending on the institution and program, but generally, the following are common:

  1. Bachelor’s degree: Most programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree, typically in education or a related field.
  2. Master’s degree: Some programs may require applicants to have a master’s degree, and the degree should be in a related field, such as education or instructional design.
  3. GPA: Many programs require applicants to have a certain GPA, usually a minimum of 3.0.
  4. Test scores: Some programs may require applicants to take standardized tests, such as the GRE or MAT, and to submit their scores as part of the application process.
  5. Transcripts: Most programs require applicants to submit official transcripts from all institutions attended.
  6. Letters of recommendation: Some programs may require applicants to provide letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to their academic or professional qualifications.
  7. Statement of Purpose: This is a document that explains why you want to pursue a doctoral degree, what you hope to gain from the program, and how you plan to use the knowledge and skills you’ll acquire.
  8. Resume or CV: Many programs require an up-to-date resume or CV outlining your educational and professional background.
  9. Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the application process, either in-person or online.

It is important to check the specific requirements for each program you are interested in and make sure you meet them before applying.

How to apply for online education doctoral programs?

The application process for online education doctoral programs can vary depending on the institution and program, but generally, the following steps are involved:

  1. Research different programs: Look for programs that align with your interests and career goals, and check that they are accredited by a reputable organization.
  2. Check the application requirements: Each program will have specific requirements for the application process, such as transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
  3. Submit your application: You will typically need to submit your application online, along with any required documents and application fee.
  4. Complete any additional requirements: Some programs may require an interview or additional testing.
  5. Wait for a decision: The institution will review your application and let you know if you’ve been accepted into the program.
  6. Enroll in the program: Once you’ve been accepted, you will need to complete any enrollment paperwork and pay any required fees.

It is important to pay attention to the deadlines and make sure you have all the required documents before submitting your application. It is also recommended to contact the program’s admission office if you have any questions or concerns.

5 Top Online Education Doctoral Programs

Below is a list of five of the best online education doctoral programs with details and requirements.

1. Title: Online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Learning and Organizational Change

Location: Baylor University

Summary:

Delivered by the Baylor University School of Education’s Department of Curriculum & Instruction, the online EdD in Learning and Organizational Change prepares students to apply essential principles of teaching and learning to manage the dynamics of organizational change. The online EdD program is designed for experienced educators and other professionals in learning and development roles interested in leading and managing positive change in school systems, corporations, governmental or non-governmental agencies, and community programs.

Curriculum and Requirements:

The online EdD program emphasizes the development of a broad understanding of the educational process as well as building a skill set that can be adapted to a variety of educational leadership situations. Courses take a practitioner-oriented approach to shaping transformative leaders with expertise in the fields of organizational change, teaching and learning, and research methods.

Learning Objectives:

Through this practitioner-focused curriculum, students in the online EdD program will develop a multitude of skills that can be applied across professional settings. Upon completion, students will be prepared to demonstrate leadership in areas such as:

  • Instruction
  • Dynamics of organizational change
  • Contextual learning and design
  • Program assessment and evaluation
  • Professional development
  • Research design evaluation, assessment, and measurement

Program Requirements:

The EdD online in Learning and Organizational Change is a 54-credit program that can be completed in 36 months or on a flexible schedule based on student needs. The curriculum consists of:

  • Learning Foundations courses (9 credits)
  • Organizational change courses (24 credits)
  • Research methods courses (9 credits)
  • Problem of Practice Dissertation and Capstone (12 credits)

More Details and Apply.

2. Title: Online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership for Organizations

Location: University of Dayton

Duration: The program consists of 60 credits and can be completed in 36 months.

Summary:

The online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership for Organizations prepares you to influence change in organizations and the greater community through service-based leadership.

The program’s emphasis on research, collaboration, social justice and applied practice will prepare you to lead mission-driven organizations to success and positive change in emerging contexts. With the service-based leadership expertise you gain in the program, you’ll graduate ready to manage and enact change in 21st-century school and education systems, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, and more.

Details and Requirments:

University of Dayton’s online Ed.D. in Leadership for Organizations is a 60-credit program led by expert SEHS faculty and can be completed in as few as 36 months.

As a student in this immersive online program, you will:

  • Learn to lead organizations through service-based and social justice principles.
  • Develop a scholarly practice through inquiry, research and hands-on experience that you will put into action from day one.
  • Investigate organizational leadership through an in-depth dissertation-in-practice.
  • Collaborate with classmates and instructors online and in person during one virtual and one on-campus immersion, building a strong network of like-minded peers.

Master’s degree is required.

More Details and Apply.

3. Title: Doctor of Education in Health Professions

Location: AT Still University of Health Sciences

Summary:

Students in ATSU’s EdD in Health Professions program are empowered with the most updated curriculum designed for relevance and immediate impact in the industry. Curriculum design is context-based and mission-driven.

Health education degree courses are conducted through virtual teaching methods, such as web-based instruction, video demonstrations, directed readings, and email and online discussions with faculty. Student learning is monitored through authentic embedded assessments.

The curriculum complements ATSU’s mission, encouraging its constituencies to become leaders in improving community health and wellness with a comprehensive appreciation of the whole individual while helping to create the best health professions educators in the world.

Course Descriptions

Course descriptions, course durations, and related information are subject to change. All courses are three credit hours, unless otherwise specified.

Requirements:

  1. Application:
    • Completed and signed admissions application along with a nonrefundable application fee.
  2. Academic:
    • An accredited Masters degree from a university recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Applicants who received their qualifying degree from a university outside the United States will have to provide a degree equivalency evaluation.*
    • Official transcript from the qualifying degree-granting institution. For students using VA benefits transcripts for all institutions attended are required.
    • Minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) at the qualifying degree institution.
  3. Elements of Success:
    • A current resume
    • Completion of an essay
    • English Proficiency
    • Meet technology requirements

Career Advancement:

According to the Bureau of Labor statistics, the college faculty profession is predicted to grow by 9% from 2019 to 2029 much faster than the average for all occupations.

  • Professor at a college or university in a multitude of health professions
  • Director of health education department or program
  • Director of community health services
  • Health professions clinical educator

More Details and Apply.

4. Title: Higher Education Administration—MA, EdS, EdD, PhD

Location: Andrews University

Summary:

The MA in higher education administration prepares students for entry-level and mid-management positions at public and private colleges or universities and community colleges in various areas of student affairs.

The EdS in higher education administration provides advanced graduate education and training for mid-level administrators of post-secondary institutions. It prepares professionals seeking administrative advancement and service in institutions of higher education.

The EdD and PhD in higher education administration prepare experienced practitioners for senior administrative and policy-making positions. Both degrees require the submission of a research-based article to a peer-reviewed publication and the successful completion of a dissertation.

PROGRAM LENGTH:

  • MA: This 36-credit program can typically be completed by full-time students in two years.
  • EdS: This 45-credit program can typically be completed by full-time students in four years.
  • EdD: This 60-credit program can typically be completed by full-time students in five years.
  • PhD: This 61-credit program can typically be completed by full-time students in five years.

APPLICATION DEADLINES:

Applications are accepted on a rolling admissions basis (fall, summer and spring semesters). 

POINTS OF DISTINCTION:

  • Our program is committed to the fundamental guiding principles of the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS).
  • Programs focus on the globalization of higher education.
  • Curriculum includes an international study tour of universities abroad.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

  • The MA requires a bachelor’s degree (or non-U.S. equivalent) from an accredited institution and minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.60 (applicants with lower GPA may be admitted upon consideration of the composite profile).
  • The doctoral programs require a master’s degree (or non-U.S. equivalent) from an accredited institution and minimum graduate GPA of 3.30 (applicants with lower GPA may be admitted upon consideration of the composite profile).
  • Two recommendations for the MA and three for the EdS, EdD and PhD. Recommenders may be advisors, major professors or employers.
  • Resume describing employment, research or special projects.
  • Statement of Purpose reflecting your philosophical perspective, personal, professional and academic goals, and reasons for seeking the graduate program.
  • TOEFL, IELTS or PTE (academic): students whose language of education is not English must submit English proficiency test scores.

More Details and Apply.

5. Title: Online Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

Location: Arizona State University

Duration:

The online doctorate in education leadership typically takes three years to complete. Students generally earn their EdD in leadership and innovation after 9–10 semesters.

Summary:

As a student in the online doctorate in education leadership, you’ll learn how to implement positive and lasting change in the classroom and across whole institutions. With an emphasis on evaluating your own work as an educator, ASU’s goal is to create scholarly and influential practitioners. Overall, this program gives you the tools to identify areas in need of change to support student success.

This program offers three distinct educational pathways, allowing you to tailor your learning experience to your career goals:

  1. PreKindergarten-Grade 12 Change Leadership.
  2. Higher Education Change Leadership.
  3. Systems, Professional and Reimagined Change Leadership.

How will I collaborate with fellow students and faculty in this ASU EdD program?

In the second and third years of this program, you’ll primarily work in leader-scholar community groups. In these collaborative groups, you’ll study, conceptualize and implement change initiatives into your local educational setting, while receiving guidance from your designated faculty member. Leader-scholar community groups also provide support when conducting your dissertation research.

Applicants entering the program must hold an active position in education that allows for the implementation of small-scale change, another aspect of the program that allows you to collaborate with not only students and faculty but also those currently working in education.

The research in action concept encourages learners to conduct several cycles of inquiry throughout the online doctorate in education leadership program. The goal is to enable more thoughtful, intentional and informed educational practices and to encourage a mindset of continuous improvement in educational settings.

Application requirements:

Applicants must currently hold a position related to education that will allow them to implement change in their workplace.

All applicants must show proof of a completed master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor’s program. Additionally, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master’s degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  • Graduate admission application and application fee.
  • Official transcripts.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Personal statement.
  • Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
  • An academic writing sample.

More Details and Apply.

Online Course

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