cheapest online phd in education

EdDPrograms.org

25 Most Affordable Online Ed.D. Programs

To help you achieve your financial goals, we've also included info on Ed.D. scholarships, discounts, and payment plans. There's even a bonus section on how to calculate costs !

Updated for 2024 on March 1, 2024

Most Affordable Ed.D. Rankings

To nail down the cheapest online Ed.D. programs in the country, we evaluated every school in our database that offered distance learning options. In order to establish the program cost, we multiplied the total number of credits by the per credit tuition rate. In most cases, this is the number you’ll see under each ranking. A few things to note as you’re skimming through the summaries:

• Program Costs : We’ve quoted 2024 tuition prices and per credit costs. Because these frequently change, we’ve also provided you with a link to the school’s tuition & fees section!
• Minimum Credits: We give a price estimate for the online Ed.D. program with the fewest amount of credits. In our profiles, you’ll notice that some schools also offer longer programs that cost more.
• In-State vs. Out-of-State : If a public university had different rates for in-state and out-of-state students, we used the out-of-state rate to order our schools. We’ve also quoted the in-state rate in case you’re lucky enough to live nearby.
• Mandatory Fees : If mandatory, per credit fees were required (e.g. distance learning), we included those in the final tuition calculation. That’s why our estimates are occasionally higher than what’s quoted on the program page.
• One-Off & Per Semester Fees: Because these can vary, we haven’t included one-off costs like the application fee, books & materials, and associated expenses. Ask the Ed.D. program coordinator for a sample budget to understand these items.
• Non-Profit vs. For-Profit : For quality purposes, we deliberately excluded for-profit schools, even ones that were CAEP-accredited. You’re welcome to investigate them, but we recommend you read student reviews, talk to recent alumni, and discuss your options with current employers before you make a decision.

Rankings Update: How Prices Changed in 2024

It’s been an intriguing year for programs in our Most Affordable Ed.D. Rankings . Some schools transformed hybrid programs into 100% online offerings (e.g. Marshall) or reduced their prices slightly by getting rid of fees. Others bumped up their costs and discontinued online doctorates that weren’t doing so well (e.g. Texas Tech). Here are a few highlights from our 2024 rankings: 

• Valdosta State remained at #1. Year after year, this public university in Georgia has offered the cheapest online Doctor of Education in the country.
• As expected, many public universities raised their per credit tuition rates slightly. In sharp contrast, program prices at public Louisiana schools and private Christian universities like Liberty and Evangel stayed the same.
• We’ve unearthed a number of public newcomers! In 2024, we welcomed USI, NGU, UWF, LSU, KU, and YSU to our rankings. In addition to being affordable, they offer a huge range of Ed.D. majors and specialties.
• Some schools have even developed new programs for distance learners. For instance, check out NIU’s cohort-based Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership.

Use our rankings as a starting point for your research. You may find that your employer is happy to help subsidize a targeted program that’s sitting at #20, rather than an irrelevant degree that features in the top 5.

Cheapest Schools with Online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Programs

25 liberty university.

• View All Online Ed.D. Programs

Minimum Program Cost : $32,130 Minimum Credits : 54 Cost Per Credit : $595 (Full-Time Online Tuition)

Affordable Ed.D. Overview

Liberty is a private Christian university with a faith-based outlook and a reputation for focusing on online learning. You’ll see traditional online doctoral programs for K-12 educators and specific doctorates for Christian leaders . To accommodate working professionals, all of Liberty’s programs are 100% online, with eight-week courses and optional on-campus intensives. Plus credit transfers are available (up to 9-15 credit hours).

Tuition rates for online doctorates are outlined in full on the tuition & fees page. We’ve used the full-time Ed.D. rate in our calculation; the part-time rate is more expensive. You’ll also find online program fees listed in this section, including the per semester technology fee, the one-time application fee, and assorted course fees.

Interested in funding? Liberty University Online (LUO) has a section on Scholarship Opportunities , with detailed info about LUO Scholarships & Discounts . Pay attention to those discounts—there are tuition breaks for military, first responders, Canadians, partner organizations , and more. LUO also offers a payment plan .

For More Information:

• Online Ed.D. Programs
• Admission Requirements
• Tuition & Fees

24 University of Kansas

• Online Ed.D in Educational Administration

Minimum Program Cost : $30,345 Minimum Credits : 51 Cost Per Credit : $595 (Online Ed.D. Tuition)

KU’s 100% Online Ed.D in Educational Administration for PK-12 leaders is not only affordable—it’s one of the most prestigious distance learning doctorates in the Midwest. The School of Education & Human Sciences has come up with a 51-credit, 3-year program that can prepare students for Kansas licensure endorsement in school district administration. (Additional coursework can be added to complete the building-level endorsement.)

Tuition for this online doctorate is charged at flat per credit rate for all students, regardless of their state of residence. Better yet, flat-rate programs are not subject to additional course or campus fees.

If you need extra help, visit the section on Financial Aid & Scholarships . The School of Education and Human Sciences offers scholarships to current online doctoral students who have begun coursework and will be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours per term for the following academic year.

• Online Ed.D Program

23 University of Louisiana-Monroe

• Online Ed.D in Curriculum & Instruction

Minimum Program Cost : $30,000 Minimum Credits : 60 Cost Per Credit : $500 (Ed.D. Tuition)

ULM’s short & sweet program is the brainchild of its CAEP-accredited School of Education . It’s a 100% online doctorate that can be completed in two years via eight-week terms. The curriculum is a balance of research & professional coursework for K-20 professionals. But ULM is unique in allowing students to choose a dissertation OR a capstone & action plan for their final project.

In the section on Ed.D. tuition , ULM states that tuition is pay-by-the-course. However, it doesn’t mention whether online graduate students are expected to pay additional fees (e.g. application fee). And it doesn’t give estimates for associated costs (e.g. course materials). So we recommend you ask the program coordinator for details on these two factors.

The university also doesn’t provide a great deal of information on financial support for graduate students. You can start by contacting the Office of Financial Aid . They should be able to answer questions about federal options (e.g. loans) and external scholarships.

22 Evangel University

• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Curriculum & Instruction

Minimum Program Cost : $30,000 Minimum Credits : 50 Cost Per Credit : $600 (Ed.D. Tuition)

The online Ed.D. program at this private Christian university in Missouri covers the gamut of K-20 education. It’s a state-approved prep program for superintendents , but it’s also designed to suit curriculum specialists, school leaders, and university professionals who wish to specialize in higher education. It’s cohort-based and it’s practical. The curriculum includes an internship and a strong emphasis on technology as an instructional tool.

Evangel does a good job of laying out tuition rates and additional fees. In addition to tuition, you’ll need to budget for per semester student fees and one-time application & graduation fees. You can pay for the degree in lump semester sums or through a monthly payment plan .

The Office of Financial Aid has a useful section on Graduate Scholarships & Grants , with details on departmental awards and discounts. In addition, Evangel offers tuition breaks on graduate programs to local Assemblies of God affiliate employees and educational partners , including school districts, churches, Christian schools, and businesses.

• Online Ed.D. Program

21 University of Southern Mississippi

• Online Ed.D. in Educational Administration – P-12
• Online Ed.D. in Higher Education

Minimum Program Cost : $29,977 Minimum Credits : 54 Cost Per Credit : $555.12 (Online Tuition + Per Credit Fees)

PreK-20 administrators will be pleased to hear that online doctorates in USM’s CAEP-accredited College of Education and Human Sciences (CEHS) are designed for working professionals. The P-12 degree includes a mandatory practicum in educational administration or supervision and the Higher Education degree features 12 credits of electives. These cohort-based, 3-year degrees are 100% online with no dissertation. Instead, all Ed.D. students at USM complete a practical capstone project.

USM is a public research university, but tuition & fees for online graduate students are the same for in-state and out-of-state residents. To give you the full picture, we’ve also included the mandatory per credit fees in our calculation. Additional course fees may apply, including costs for textbooks, course materials, and labs.

If you’re on the hunt for scholarships, try USM’s Golden Opportunities scholarship database, which allows you to search for relevant awards. Be sure to check out the Gibbes-Liberto Lifelong Learning Scholarship and the Nancy Whitten New Family Educational Leadership Graduate Scholarship .

• Admission Requirements (Listed on Each Program Page)

20 Northwestern State University of Louisiana

• Online Ed.D. in Adult Learning & Development – Community College Leadership
• Online Ed.D. in Adult Learning & Development – Adult Learning & Workforce Development

Minimum Program Cost : $29,925 Minimum Credits : 63 Cost Per Credit : $475 (eNSU Graduate Tuition)

NSU is built on a sturdy foundation. It’s a public university in the University of Louisiana system with a CAEP-accredited College of Education and a convenient eNSU Global Campus . The online Ed.D. comes in two concentrations—Community College Leadership and Adult Learning & Workforce Development—and it includes electives and a field-based practicum.

Graduate students in eNSU programs pay an inexpensive online tuition rate . This is the same for in-state and out-of-state students. Additional expenses include the small application fee, textbooks, and course materials.

Distance learning students are eligible for traditional Financial Aid and credit transfers are available for previous graduate work. Students with military connections can also ask if the Ed.D. qualifies for eNSU’s deeply discounted military rate .

19 University of Southern Indiana

• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership – Higher Education Administrative Leadership
• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership – Pedagogical Leadership
• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership – School District Administrative Leadership

Minimum Program Cost : $29,867 (Out-of-State); $26,867 (In-State) Minimum Credits : 60 Cost Per Credit : $497.78 (Online Out-of-State); $447.78 (In-State)

PreK-20 educators—take note! USI’s 100% online Doctor of Education is available in 3 unique tracks. The one in School District Administrative Leadership leads to school district-level licensure. This 4-year doctorate is designed for busy educators, with 1-2 classes per semester, an internship, and synchronous sessions on Wednesday evenings. For more info on faculty, visit the CAEP-accredited Department of Teacher Education .

The baseline tuition rate for online graduate students at USI is $432.78 per credit hour. To give you a clearer picture of the cost, we’ve also included the additional online learning fee of $50 per course and the $50 per credit hour, non-resident distance education fee. If you live in Indiana, your program will be cheaper!

Interested in cutting costs even further? Visit USI’s sections on Student Financial Assistance and Financing Graduate School . Before you apply, be sure to ask the program coordinator if online Ed.D. students are eligible for the Graduate Studies Scholarship .

18 University of Colorado Denver

• Online Ed.D. in Leadership for Educational Equity – Executive Leadership
• Online Ed.D. in Leadership for Educational Equity – Higher Education
• Online Ed.D. in Leadership for Educational Equity – Justice, Equity & Diverse Identities (JEDI)
• Online Ed.D. in Leadership for Educational Equity – Research Leadership

Minimum Program Cost : $29,160 (Out-of-State); $24,300 (In-State) Minimum Credits : 54 Cost Per Credit : $540 (Online Out-of-State); $450 (Online In-State)

In the past couple of years, CU Denver’s School of Education & Human Development has expanded their online doctorate in Leadership for Educational Equity to encompass four unique specialties: Executive Leadership; Higher Education; Justice, Equity & Diverse Identities; and Research Leadership. To accommodate working professionals, this 54-credit Ed.D. is cohort-based and most specialties are 100% online. However, Higher Education students will be expected to visit the campus twice per year.

Colorado students pay the highly affordable resident rate for the Ed.D. Everyone else pays the higher (but still affordable) online rate for out-of-state graduate students—this is 120% of the in-state resident rate. Be aware that online students at CU Denver are required to pay for the per term Student Services fee and the one-off New Student fee.

If you need help with funding ideas, check out the School of Education’s section on Financial Aid and the section on Scholarships . There’s at least one award that’s open to doctoral students. The Office of Student Finances will have more info on payment plans.

• Admission Requirements (Listed on Each Specialty Page)

17 North Greenville University

• Online Ed.D. in K-12 Education Leadership
• Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership

Minimum Program Cost : $29,070 Minimum Credits : 57 Cost Per Credit : $510 (Ed.D. Tuition)

Online doctorates at NGU’s College of Education are handily divided into two pathways: K-12 and higher education. Within those pathways, you’ll conduct field analyses of current practices and tackle a dissertation. The vast majority of coursework is asynchronous, but there will be occasional face-to-face synchronous sessions. On a part-time plan of study, you can finish your Ed.D. in 4 years.

Doctoral tuition rates are listed in the section on Graduate Tuition & Fees . NGU is a private Baptist university, so all students pay the same price, no matter where they live. Ed.D. tuition is very reasonable, but it always pays to ask the program coordinator about one-off fees and the potential costs of Slingshot books & materials .

You may also want to talk to them about Graduate Financial Aid . NGU doesn’t appear to offer scholarships for online graduate students, but it does have a monthly payment plan .

16 Texas Tech University

• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership
• Online Ed.D. in Instructional Technology

Minimum Program Cost : $28,980 Minimum Credits : 63 Cost Per Credit : $460 (Online Graduate Tuition + Mandatory Fees)

PreK-20 leaders will find plenty to love in Texas Tech’s affordable doctorates. They come from a CAEP-accredited College of Education that’s participating in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED). They’re 100% online. And they’re geared towards the workplace. The 66-credit Ed.D. in Educational Leadership includes superintendent certification preparation. The 63-credit Ed.D. in Educational and Instructional Technology embraces AECT principles.

We used Texas Tech’s Tuition Estimator to establish the per credit cost. All students pay the same tuition & fees for online graduate programs, including a mandatory online learning & distance education fee and miscellaneous university fees (e.g. student services). The tuition & fees section has info on additional costs, including one-time expenses and the per term College of Education Doctoral Support Center Fee (see the document on Global Fees).

The College of Education has a helpful section on Funding for Graduate Students , with details on fellowships & awards. Doctoral students are eligible for the Helen DeVitt Jones Fellowship , as well as General Fellowships . Depending on your circumstance, you may also want to look into Research Assistantships .

15 University of Missouri-Columbia

Minimum Program Cost : $28,890 Minimum Credits : 54 Cost Per Credit : $535 (Online Tuition)

Mizzou has developed an excellent, cohort-based doctorate. It’s been built by a CAEP-accredited College of Education & Human Development . It’s been shaped by the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED). And it’s a 100% online program with optional campus opportunities. This 3-year doctorate doesn’t lead to administrator certification, but it’s a real find for PK–20+ educators & leaders. Missouri residents can also consider Mizzou’s on-campus Ed.D. in Reading Education .

Visit the tuition & fees section for more info on costs. The affordable distance learning tuition rate is the same for in-state and out-of-state graduate students. You’ll also need to budget for one-off expenses like the application fee, books & course materials, and any additional course fees. When in doubt, ask the program coordinator for estimates.

The College of Education’s section on graduate financial assistance is a good place to start for money ideas—it has instructions on applying for financial aid and scholarships. You can also check the Graduate School’s section on Funding , which has details on federal aid, fellowships, travel awards, and graduate assistantships.

14 Southeastern University

• Online Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction
• Online Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership

Minimum Program Cost : $27,000 Minimum Credits : 54 Cost Per Credit : $500 (Ed.D. Tuition)

Southeastern is a private Christian university, so programs in the College of Education have a religious flavor. Ed.D. applicants are expected to submit a Christian faith statement and teaching emphasizes a Christian worldview. Online doctorates are built for practicality, with hands-on practicums, two 3-day campus intensives, and multiple start dates. With a little grit & determination, you’ll be able to finish the degree in 3-4 years.

Southeastern’s tuition & fee structure is relatively straightforward. In addition to the tuition cost that we’ve quoted, you’ll have to budget for travel to the intensives during the first and second years. You may also be responsible for per semester fees and assorted costs like books & materials. Feel free to ask the program coordinator for a sample budget.

Southeastern’s price is already pretty low, so it doesn’t offer additional internal scholarships to online Ed.D. students. But it has developed an interest-free monthly payment plan .

13 University of Arkansas

• Online/Hybrid Ed.D. in Educational Leadership
• Online Ed.D. in Human Resource and Workforce Development Education
• Hybrid Ed.D. in Adult and Lifelong Learning

Minimum Program Cost : $26,247 (Master’s Entry); $20,415 (Ed.S. Entry) Minimum Credits : 54 (Master’s Entry); 42 (Ed.S. Entry) Cost Per Credit : $486.05 (Online Tuition + Mandatory Fees)

U of A’s CAEP-accredited College of Education and Health Professions (COEHP) has put together three intriguing—and relatively cheap—online doctorates. They each have their own unique structure. For example, the 42-credit Online/Hybrid Ed.D. in Education Leadership is open to candidates who hold a master’s degree and a specialist degree (or evidence of meeting the requirements for district level licensure), but the other options are designed for applicants with a master’s degree. Don’t be put off by the “96 credits” language—U of A accepts plenty of transfer credits for your master’s degree (e.g. up to 33-42 credits).

Each doctorate will have a separate cost, depending on the total credits. The good news is that all students enrolled in U of A online programs pay in-state tuition rates for online courses, regardless of their state of residency. There are mandatory per credit fees (e.g. library fee), but they’re not large. Having said all that, you may wish to ask the program coordinator if any Adult and Lifelong Learning courses are considered “on-campus,” since these have separate tuition & fee rates.

Need help financing your degree? Check out the College’s sections on COEHP Scholarships . Another useful site is the University of Arkansas AcademicWorks . Relevant doctoral scholarships include the Donald R. Miller Memorial Endowment (Phi Delta Kappa) ; the Dr. Roy B. Allen Endowed Scholarship (ELCF) ; and the George S. Denny Memorial Scholarship . The Global Campus also offers W.E. Manning Memorial Scholarships to students in graduate online degree programs. Ask the program coordinator if Ed.D. candidates are eligible to apply.

• Online & Hybrid Ed.D. Programs

12 University of West Florida

• Online Ed.D. in Instructional and Performance Technology

Minimum Program Cost : $25,857 (Out-of-State); $20,769 (In-State) Minimum Credits : 54 Cost Per Credit : $478.83 (Online Out-of-State); $384.60 (Online In-State)

UWF’s School of Education (SOE) has been a CPED Designing and Developing Member since 2018, so we’re happy to report that its online doctorate in Instructional and Performance Technology includes a solid dose of practical courses, seminars, and a Dissertation in Practice (DiP). You’ll also participate in 3 residencies with a few days of intensive face-to-face work.

Even though UWF is a public university, tuition & fees are still highly affordable for non-residents. Tuition waivers can cover up to 90% of out-of-state tuition for graduate students admitted to online programs. That’s the price we’ve quoted for you above. Renewal of waivers is not automatic and waiver requests must be submitted every semester.

For more on funding, have a look at the sections on Financial Aid and Financial Aid FAQs and the School of Education’s page on SOE Scholarships . A number of SOE scholarships are open to graduate students, but we recommend you ask if distance learning students can apply. UWF Online also offers a zero-interest payment plan .

Note: UWF also offers a highly affordable 60-credit Online Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction with the same per-credit tuition rate.

11 Louisiana State University-Shreveport

• Online Ed.D. in Leadership Studies – Leadership Studies
• Online Ed.D. in Leadership Studies – Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management
• Online Ed.D. in Leadership Studies – Health Communication & Leadership

Minimum Program Cost : $25,841 Minimum Credits : 63 Cost Per Credit : $411 (Ed.D. Tuition)

Louisiana affordability strikes again! LSU Online has created a 100% online doctorate in leadership that can be applied to almost any situation. This program is not intended to help teachers become administrators. Instead, it’s a degree that seasoned PreK-20 leaders & relevant professionals can investigate. There are weekly Zoom meetings and multiple opportunities for career-building. Take 2 courses per session and you’ll finish in just over 2 years. Study part-time and finish in 3.5 years.

LSUS is a public university, but all online Ed.D. students pay the same pay-as-you-go tuition rate , regardless of their location. All mandatory fees are included in our estimate. There may be additional course-specific fees for proctoring and/or books—ask an Enrollment Coach about one-off costs.

Any questions on financial aid should be directed to LSU Shreveport’s Office of Financial Aid . LSU Online doesn’t offer any scholarships to Ed.D. students, but the Office may have ideas on external awards and funding schemes.

10 University of Wyoming

Minimum Program Cost : ~$25,380 (Out-of-State); ~$16,740 (In-State) Minimum Credits : ~45 Cost Per Credit : $564 (Out-of-State + Online Fee); $372 (In-State + Online Fee)

UW’s programs are well-known for being affordable. But we’re also pleased to report that the College of Education has street credibility! It’s CAEP-accredited. It’s participating in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED). And it offers a wide range of online doctorates, including one that can help you earn the superintendent endorsement . Doctorates are listed as 75-81 credits, but the College accepts ~30 transfer credits from your master’s degree. Check each program page to learn about on-campus requirements—some may contain short visits (e.g. orientation & dissertation defense).

UW charges different online tuition rates for in-state, out-of-state, and alumni graduate students. Happily, the out-of-state rate is still pretty darn cheap. There is a mandatory, per credit online fee, which we’ve included in our calculations. You’ll also need to budget for travel expenses to the campus and associated costs (e.g. books). Be sure to talk to the program coordinator about how many master’s degree credits you’ll be able to transfer!

Looking for scholarships? Relevant awards are listed at the bottom of each Ed.D. program page and in the College of Education’s section on Graduate Scholarships . Another useful resource is the section on Graduate Education: Financial Assistance , which has details on general graduate awards, UW student employment, and external fellowships. Certain majors can also qualify for School of Counseling, Leadership, Advocacy, and Design (CLAD) Funding Opportunities such as travel awards.

9 Kennesaw State University

• Online Ed.D. in Instructional Technology – Advanced
• Online Ed.D. in Instructional Technology – Initial Certification

Minimum Program Cost : $25,278 Minimum Credits : 66 Cost Per Credit : $383 (Online Tuition)

You’ll find KSU’s tech-driven Ed.D. in the Bagwell College of Education (BCOE) . The College is not CAEP-accredited, but it’s involved in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) and it’s deeply committed to doctoral learning. For proof, check out all the on-campus Ed.D. programs ! We particularly like the fact that the 100% online Ed.D. is aligned to ISTE standards and it comes in two tracks—Advanced or Initial Certification. You can choose the one that suits your experience level.

Although KSU is a public university, online tuition rates are the same for all graduate students, regardless of their state of residency. Additional costs will include a per semester student fee, as well as books, materials, and any course-specific fees. Credit transfers are available for Ed.S. graduates.

For funding ideas, start with the list of BCOE Scholarships , which includes awards for graduates. The Graduate College also has an entire section devoted to Financial Information , with advice on tuition, financial aid, scholarships, and graduate assistantships. Be sure to explore the section on Scholarships for Education Majors .

• Admission Requirements (Listed on Each Track Page)

8 Youngstown State University

• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership – Superintendent Licensure
• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership – Health & Human Services

Minimum Program Cost : $25,200 (Out-of-State); $24,900 (In-State) Minimum Credits : 60 Cost Per Credit : $420 (Online Out-of-State); $415 (Online In-State)

YSU’s highly affordable online doctorates are brought to you by the CAEP-accredited Beeghly College of Liberal Arts, Social Sciences & Education . Even though they have different foci, they share the same DNA: 60 credit hours, 32 months, and a traditional 5-chapter dissertation. We’re happy to see that the program also includes a mandatory “Clinical Experience.” Like an internship, these work-focused projects are completed under the supervision of an appropriately licensed administrator.

Tuition costs are uncomplicated. Ohio students pay a little less than out-of-state students, but the difference is negligible! There are no hidden fees and the one-time application fee will be waived for active military members & veterans. One thing to note—payment plans are not available for accelerated online students.

YSU is cheap to begin with, so there isn’t much in the way of financial aid for online students. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships can help with questions on loans & federal programs. You may also wish to ask the program coordinator if distance learners are eligible for educational leadership scholarships for dissertation research.

7 University of the Cumberlands

• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership (Multiple Specialties)

Minimum Program Cost : $24,900 Minimum Credits : 60 Cost Per Credit : $415 (Ed.D. Tuition)

UC’s online Ed.D. has much to recommend it. It comes from a private university with a CAEP-accredited Department of Education. It’s short & sweet (e.g. three years). It allows you to select a specialty area (e.g. Education, Nursing, Information Systems, Criminal Justice, etc.). And it’s flexible. The majority of classes are asynchronous, with no set log-in times.

UC is admirably straightforward about its tuition & fees . You’ll see the EdD Online rate listed in the Graduate Tuition section—all mandatory fees are included in the One Price Promise. You may also need to budget for one-off expenses like the application fee.

UC doesn’t have as many scholarships & support packages as large (and heavily endowed) public universities, but it does have an advice section on Graduate Student Aid . This has more details on external scholarship opportunities and UC payment plans .

6 Northern Illinois University

• Online Ed.D. in Community College Leadership
• Hybrid Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education

Minimum Program Cost : $23,940 Minimum Credits : 42 Cost Per Credit : $570 (Online Ed.D. Domestic Tuition)

NIU has your PreK-20 needs covered! The CAEP-accredited College of Education has launched a new cohort-based, 100% online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership with synchronous classes on one weekday evening.  The 54-credit Ed.D. in Community College Leadership is longer and not 100% online—there’s a week-long campus intensive each summer. But it’s packed with targeted topics and plenty of opportunities to network. Illinois residents can consider the Hybrid Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education .

Distance learning costs are explained in NIU’s section on Online Tuition & Fees . We’ve quoted you the domestic price for the 100% online doctorate in Educational Leadership; international students pay more. The tuition rate for the doctorate in Community College Leadership is the same for everyone, but it’s $585 per credit hour. And you will need to budget for travel to Naperville, IL each summer for the campus intensive.

If you’re looking for financial assistance, visit the website for NIU’s Financial Aid and Scholarship Office . They’ll be able to advise you on federal funding options (e.g. loans) and external scholarships.

5 Marshall University

• Online Ed.D. in Leadership Studies

Minimum Program Cost : $22,905 Minimum Credits : 45 Cost Per Credit : $509 (Online Tuition)

Marshall’s doctoral programs come to you courtesy of Marshall Online and the CAEP-accredited College of Education & Professional Development (COEPD) . The highly affordable Ed.D. in Leadership Studies is tailor-made for leaders in schools, universities, government organizations, non-profits, the military, and more. The Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction is longer and more expensive, but it may be just right for educators who want a personal touch. You’ll be able to connect with peers during synchronous virtual class meetings on weekday evenings.

The 45-credit Ed.D. in Leadership Studies is a distance learning program, so it qualifies for  online tuition rates . These are the same for in-state and out-of-state graduate students! The 57-credit Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction is an EdD/EdS Advanced Program, so there will be an additional $50 per credit hour program fee.

For financial assistance, start with the section on Scholarships . In the doctoral handbook, Marshall states that students pursuing dissertation research may be eligible for modest awards (e.g. $500). You may also want to check out the Graduate College’s page on How to Finance Your Graduate Education . Employees of Marshall University (but not their dependents) are eligible for a Tuition Waiver .

4 University of Massachusetts-Lowell

• Online Ed.D. in Leadership in Schooling – General Leadership
• Online Ed.D. in Leadership in Schooling – STEM

Minimum Program Cost : $21,000 Minimum Credits : 42 Cost Per Credit : $500 (Online Tuition)

If you’re a PreK-12 educator, UMass Lowell’s Ed.D. is worth your inspection! The College of Education often achieves a top 20 ranking in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Graduate Education Programs. It has chosen to take part in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED). And it offers the Ed.D. in two useful tracks: General Leadership or STEM. But it does not lead to licensure. Instead, it’s intended to help teachers and/or instructional leaders move up to the next level in their careers.

UMass Lowell provides a breakdown of costs in the Tuition & Financing section of the program, but check the Online Tuition & Fees section for the latest rates. On top of tuition, you’ll need to budget for three on-campus residencies (one week each summer) and associated fees (e.g. first-year student fee, registration fee per semester, books, etc.). When you add up all these costs, the grand total comes to ~$26,000, not including travel expenses.

Visit the section on Costs & Aid for Graduate Programs to get a sense of funding opportunities. UMass Lowell’s Math & Science Education doctoral programs qualify for the New England Regional Student Program (NERSP) discount.

3 University of West Georgia

• Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration
• Online Ed.D. in Nursing Education
• Online Ed.D. in Professional Counseling and Supervision
• Online Ed.D. in School Improvement

Minimum Program Cost : $19,260 Minimum Credits : 60 Cost Per Credit : $372 (Lowest Online EdD Tuition)

UWG Online and the CAEP-accredited College of Education (COE) have developed a wide range of cohort-based doctorates, including programs with multiple concentrations (e.g. School Improvement) and accelerated tracks for Ed.S. graduates (e.g. Professional Counseling)! The Ed.D. in School Improvement is 100% online; Higher Education Administration and Professional Counseling require one on-campus visit for orientation; and Nursing Education involves a couple of trips. Programs start in the fall.

Online tuition rates at UWG are the same for in-state and out-of-state graduate students. The more courses you take in a semester, the more you’ll save. We’ve given you an estimate that’s based on 3 years of study for the online Ed.D. programs in School Improvement and Professional Counseling (that’s why it’s a little lower than simply multiplying credits). However, Higher Education and Nursing Education have a more expensive tuition rate. There may also be miscellaneous fees.

You can offset these costs by applying for COE Scholarships —see the separate section for graduate students. The Leona Ingram Scholarship and the Thomas S. Upchurch Educational Leadership Scholarship are worth investigating. You can also use UWG’s Scholarship Search to find relevant institutional awards.

2 University of North Georgia

• Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Practice

Minimum Program Cost : $18,799 Minimum Credits : 60 Cost Per Credit : $340.50 (Online Tuition)

Higher education professionals will find plenty to love about UNG’s doctorate. It’s a cohort-based, 100% online degree that comes from a CAEP-accredited College of Education . It only takes three years to complete. It includes dissertation preparation from the get-go. And it has a strong baseline threshold for admissions—applicants earn points for GPAs above 3.0.

UNG’s tuition & fee charts can help you calculate the cost of tuition, but it’s important to note that mandatory technology fees are capped at certain credit thresholds. With a 60-credit doctorate that takes 9 semesters, you’re looking at:

• Semesters 1 & 2 = 9 hours each semester ($2,802 x 2)
• Semesters 3-7 = 7 hours each semester ($2,196 x 5)
• Semester 8 = 6 hours ($1,874.25 x 1)
• Semester 9 = 1 hour ($340.50 x 1)

Additional miscellaneous fees are listed in the general tuition & fees section (e.g. application fee, graduation fee, etc.). Don’t forget to budget for books & materials.

College of Education scholarships are primarily reserved for students seeking teaching certification. You may have more luck with the section on Financial Information in Graduate Admissions. This has info on payment plans, graduate assistantships, and the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) for University System of Georgia employees. You can also use the Nighthawk Scholarship Center to search for institutional awards.

1 Valdosta State University

• Online Ed.D. in Leadership
• Hybrid Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction – P-12 Disciplinary
• Hybrid Ed.D. in Adult and Career Education

Minimum Program Cost : $16,115 Minimum Credits : 55 Cost Per Credit : $293 (Graduate eTuition)

This public university hits our #1 spot thanks to a great eTuition rate and a solid track record! VSU is part of the University System of Georgia. The College of Education & Human Services (COEHS) is CAEP-accredited. Up to 9 credit hours (i.e. 3 courses) of transfer credits are allowed. And Ed.D. programs are streamlined & diverse. There’s an online doctorate in leadership and specialist hybrid options. Just bear in mind that VSU has high admissions standards (e.g. 3.5 GPA).

The eTuition rate applies to all fully online courses, and it’s the same for in-state & out-of-state graduate students. With a 55-credit program, you might end up paying $16,115 in total. This figure includes eTuition for 46 credit hours of coursework (e.g. 24 months) and 9 credit hours for the dissertation (time varies). Online students are exempt from most student fees, except for the technology fee. If you’re interested in the hybrid program, ask the program coordinator about tuition rates for any campus courses.

Check out the COEHS Scholarships —there are a few options for graduate students. The Graduate School also has a section on Financial Aid for Graduate Students , with a list of general graduate scholarships and info on Graduate Assistantships .

Bonus Round: Affordable Ed.S. to Ed.D. Programs

Our rankings are aimed at folks who already hold a master’s degree. This is the standard entry requirement for an online doctorate in education. (Having said that, a number of schools will help you earn both a master’s and an Ed.D.)

But in our research on affordable online Ed.D. programs, we came across a few cheap doctorates that cater to professionals who already hold an Ed.S. If you fall into this category, you may want to check out online offerings at the following universities. They are ranked in order of minimum tuition cost:

• William Carey University
• Northwest Nazarene University
• University of Arkansas

How Much Do Online Ed.D. Programs Cost?

How to calculate total program costs.

You’ll discover 25 reputable schools in our rankings of the cheapest online doctoral programs in education . They often come from big public universities or private universities with a Christian outlook. Many are CAEP-accredited and some are participating in the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) . Online Ed.D. costs at each school will vary, but here’s what to watch out for:

• Per Credit Tuition Rate : At private universities, this is easy—all Ed.D. students pay the same rate. Public universities are trickier. Many schools have an “online tuition rate” that is the same for all Ed.D. students, regardless of their state of residency. But a few schools continue to charge different in-state and out-of-state rates, even for online doctorates. We’ve flagged those outliers in our rankings.
• Distance Education Fee : Universities often tack on a mandatory, per credit fee for online learners. They’ll usually make this clear on the tuition page, but be sure to read through the entire section. Sometimes this info is included in “notes” at the bottom. Because it’s mandatory, we’ve included it in our tuition calculations.
• Mandatory Fees at Public Universities : Certain public universities may also want to charge you for mandatory infrastructure fees (e.g. student services fee, institutional fee, technology fee, etc.). It’s not a rule—many public schools are willing to exclude online students from brick-and-mortar fees. If we’ve spotted them, we’ve included them in our tuition calculations.
• Miscellaneous Fees : Keep an eye out for these. Public and private universities often tack on per semester or per term fees that cover areas like IT, student fees, and the like. Almost every school will charge you an application fee and a graduation fee. There may even be course-specific fees. When in doubt, ask the Ed.D. program coordinator for a list.
• Additional Costs : Online Ed.D. programs may also contain hidden costs for course materials, books, IT equipment, and software. If your doctorate contains a campus component (e.g. summer residency, orientation, conference attendance, etc.), you’ll also have to budget for travel expenses, accommodation, and time off work.

As you can see from this list, “cheap” is a flexible term. The total price of your online Ed.D. will depend on your situation. For example, if you can transfer credits from a previous degree or graduate coursework, your tuition may be even lower than our quoted minimum program cost! Don’t be afraid to ask the Ed.D. program coordinator for a price breakdown. Some schools already do this on their program website.

Typical Ed.D. Prices for Master’s Level Entry

Overall, the most affordable online Ed.D. programs in the country range from $16,000-$33,000. In our rankings, you’ll see that the top 3 cheapest schools have kept their minimum tuition below $20,000. However, the majority of schools are in the $22,000-$33,000 range. And tuition rates will usually go up every year.

Keep in mind that super-cheap programs often have fewer credits than some of the big guns. This isn’t a bad thing, but it’s something to consider when you’re looking at the curriculum. How deep do you want to dig into the coursework? How much time do you want to spend on your dissertation? The price should be weighed against the quality of the teaching & rigor of the classes.

30 Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs [2024 Guide]

When your life is committed to teaching students, earning an online doctorate in education may be the next natural step in your career development.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Education Programs

1. andrews university.

Andrews University is a private university in Berrien Springs, Michigan, that is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Founded in 1874, Andrews offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs for its more than 3,300 enrolled students. More than 70 graduate and post-graduate majors can be pursued.

• EdD in Curriculum and Instructions
• EdD in Educational Leadership
• EdD in Higher Education Administration
• EdD in Leadership
• PhD in Curriculum and Instructions
• PhD in Educational Leadership
• PhD in Higher Education Administration
• PhD in Leadership

Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Baylor University

Baylor University is a private, Baptist-affiliated research university located in Waco, Texas. Founded in 1845, Baylor is the oldest continuously operating university in the state of Texas. Students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 12 academic units.

Baylor has been ranked in 76th place on the U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” list. Annual enrollment at Baylor is just over 18,000.

• EdD in Learning and Organizational Change

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

3. Boise State University

Boise State University is a public research university in Boise, Idaho, that was founded by the Episcopal Church in 1932. The university offers more than 190 fields of study for students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees today. Current annual enrollment at Boise State is over 25,000.

• EdD in Educational Technology

Boise State University  is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

4. Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University Chicago is a private liberal arts university located in River Forest, Illinois. This former teaching college now offers more than 100 degree options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students.

Concordia was founded in 1864. Its current annual enrollment tops 6,000. Concordia is affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS).

• EdD in Leadership – Curriculum and Instruction
• EdD in Leadership – Early Childhood Education
• EdD in Leadership – Educational Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Education Technology
• EdD in Leadership – Gerontology
• EdD in Leadership – Health and Human Performance
• EdD in Leadership – Higher Education
• EdD in Leadership – Organizational Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Reading, Language and Literacy
• EdD in Leadership – Special Education
• EdD in Leadership – Sports Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Teacher Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Curriculum and Instruction
• PhD in Leadership – Early Childhood Education
• PhD in Leadership – Educational Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Education Technology
• PhD in Leadership – Gerontology
• PhD in Leadership – Health and Human Performance
• PhD in Leadership – Higher Education
• PhD in Leadership – Organizational Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Reading, Language and Literacy
• PhD in Leadership – Special Education
• PhD in Leadership – Sports Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Teacher Leadership

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Drexel University

Founded in 1891, Drexel University is a private research university based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In addition to 70 undergraduate degree programs, Drexel offers more than 100 options for master’s and doctoral studies. Drexel has an annual enrollment of more than 24,000 students.

The school is known for utilizing a cooperative education program (co-op) that allows students to take advantage of paid, full-time work experience.

• EdD in Educational Leadership and Management

Drexel University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

6. Edgewood College

Edgewood College of Madison, Wisconsin, is a Roman Catholics college that was founded by the Dominican order in 1927. Edgewood College offers more than 60 majors and 40 minors for students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Edgewood enrolls more than 2,500 students annually.

The school is known for its small class sizes, low instructor-to-student ratios, and extensive job counseling for future graduates.

Edgewood College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Grand Canyon University

With an annual enrollment topping 100,000, Grand Canyon University is best known for being one of the largest Christian universities in the world. GCU is based in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs across nine distinct colleges. GCU was founded in 1949.

• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Behavioral Health
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Christian Ministry
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Healthcare Administration
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Higher Education Leadership
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – K-12 Leadership
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Organizational Development
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Special Education
• EdD in Teaching and Learning – Adult Learning

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. John Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University is a private research university in Baltimore, Maryland, dating back to 1876. Just over 26,000 enroll in the prestigious school annually to pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a wide variety of majors covering the arts and sciences. Johns Hopkins is one of the most cited research institutions in the world.

• Doctor of Education

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

9. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University is split between two primary campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta. KSU’s annual enrollment passing 35,000 makes it one of the 50 largest universities in the United States. The school offers more than 80 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree options. Kennesaw State was founded in 1963.

• EdD in Instructional Technology
• EdD in Teacher Leadership

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

10. Liberty University

Founded in 1971, Liberty University offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 17 colleges. Liberty offers 289 of its 550 total programs fully online. An annual enrollment number topping 100,000 solidifies Liberty’s reputation as one of the largest evangelical Christian universities in the world.

• EdD in Community Care and Counseling
• EdD in Curriculum and Instruction – Special Education
• PhD in Education – Organizational Leadership
• PhD in Education – Special Education

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

11. Maryville University

Maryville University is a private university located in Town and Country, Missouri, with a history dating back to 1872. The university currently offers more than 90 degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels to more than 6,400 enrolled students annually. Maryville’s student population includes students from all 50 states.

• Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership

Maryville University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

12. Morehead State University

Morehead State University is a public university in Morehead, Kentucky, that was founded in 1887. MSU enrolls more than 9,600 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are offered across four schools at Morehead. U.S. News & World Report ranks Morehead State in 19th place among public regional universities in the South.

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

13. National University

National University is a growing network of nonprofit institutions headquartered in San Diego, California. Established in 1971, NU has over 30,000 students enrolled and over 220,000 alumni from around the world. The university offers a variety of online options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

• EdD in Instructional Design

National University  is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

14. Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University is a private Christian university located in Nampa, Idaho, that was founded in 1913. NNU is one of eight liberal arts colleges in the United States affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Annual enrollment at NNU is just over 2,000.

NNU currently offers more than 70 degree programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies.

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

15. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is a private university with a main campus in Davie, Florida. Founded in 1964, Nova’s annual student enrollment has grown to over 20,000. Nova is comprised of 18 total colleges, centers, and schools offering more than 150 degree options for bachelors, master’s, and doctoral students.

Nova Southeastern University enjoys the distinction of being classified among both the R2: Doctoral Universities for high research activity and the “community engaged” universities by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

• EdD in Curriculum and Teaching
• EdD in Higher Education Leadership
• EdD in Instructional Technology & Distance Education
• EdD in Organizational Leadership
• EdD in Reading Education
• EdD in Special Education

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

16. Regent University

Founded in 1977, Regent University is a private Christian university located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Regent’s annual enrollment hovers near 8,630 students. A variety of associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees spanning 70 courses of study are available for Regent students.

Regent’s online graduate education program is ranked 21st in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

• PhD in Education

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

17. Rowan University

Rowan University is a public research university in Glassboro, New Jersey, with an annual enrollment topping 9,400. Founded in 1923, Rowan offers students dozens of robust options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 12 colleges.

Rowan also operates a Division of Global Learning and Partnerships for graduate and remote learning. U.S. News ranks Rowan 187 on its Best Colleges ranking.

• EdD in Educational Leadership – Community College Leadership Initiative
• EdD in Educational Leadership – Higher Education
• EdD in Educational Leadership – Nurse Educator
• EdD in Educational Leadership – P-12

Rowan University  is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education, a unit of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

18. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University is a public university in Huntsville, Texas, with a history as a teaching college that dates back to 1879. SHSU is a member of the Texas State University System. More than 20,000 students are enrolled across Sam Houston’s more than 80 undergraduate, 59 master’s, and 10 doctoral programs.

• EdD in Developmental Education Administration
• EdD in Instructional Systems Design and Technology

Sam Houston State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. St Thomas University

St. Thomas University is a private Catholic university in Miami Gardens, Florida, offering 23 undergraduate majors, 24 graduate majors, and several doctoral programs. Founded in 1961, STU enrolls more than 4,200 students annually. The university’s Miami Gardens campus was once the long-term training camp home of the Miami Dolphins.

Formerly known as Biscayne College, St. Thomas University has enrolled students from more than 70 countries.

• EdD in Leadership and Innovation

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

20. Texas A&M University Commerce

More than 12,000 students enroll annually at Texas A&M University–Commerce. This public research university in Commerce, Texas, was founded in 1889. It is comprised of more than five academic colleges offering degrees in more than 100 subjects and disciplines.

Degree paths for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral are offered. Texas A&M University–Commerce has been ranked the top school in Texas for teaching education by the Directory of U.S. Colleges Database Online Magazine.

• EdD in Educational Administration

Texas A&M University – Commerce  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

21. Trevecca Nazarene University

Trevecca Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts college located in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1901, TNU is one of eight liberal arts colleges in the United States affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Trevecca is divided into six schools offering associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.

• EdD in Leadership and Professional Practice

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

22. Triden University

Trident University is an online university based in Cypress, California, that was founded in 1996. Trident offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees for its more than 6,800 enrolled students annually. Roughly 75 percent of Trident’s enrollment is comprised of active and retired military personnel.

The school offers a fully online learning experiences across four academic colleges.

Trident University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

243. Union University

Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, is a private evangelical school with an annual enrollment topping 3,377. Union University has been ranked 14th among Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News more than 19 times! The school currently offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a variety of disciplines.

• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Instructional Leadership
• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Leadership in School Reform
• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Teacher Leadership
• EdD in Higher Education

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

24. University of Dayton

Ohio’s University of Dayton is a private Roman Catholic research university that was founded by the Society of Mary in 1850. UD currently enrolls more than 11,306 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees covering more than 80 academic programs in the arts and sciences are offered by UD.

• EdD in Leadership for Organizations

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

25. University of Florida

The University of Florida boasts an alumni list that includes Tim Tebow, Erin Andrews, and Emmitt Smith. This research university located in Gainesville, Florida, has a history dating back to 1853. The nearly 57,000 students who enroll at UF annually can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees spanning a variety of majors and disciplines.

• EdD in Teachers, Schools, and Society

The  University of Florida  is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

26. University of Houston

The University of Houston is the main institution of the University of Houston System. Founded in 1927, this public research university boasts an annual enrollment of more than 46,000. More than 282 degree programs are offered at UH for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies.

The Princeton Review has ranked the University of Houston as one of America’s best colleges. The Academic Ranking of World Universities has placed UH among the Top 50 American Research Universities.

• EdD in Professional Leadership – Literacy Education
• EdD in Professional Leadership – Social Studies/Social Education

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

27. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is the largest and oldest school within the University of Nebraska system. Founded in 1869, UNL enrolls close to 26,000 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are offered through more than 200 areas of study. UNL’s list of impressive past graduates includes Warren Buffett.

• EdD in Educational Administration – P-12 School Leadership
• EdD in Educational Studies – Educational Leadership and Higher Education
• PhD in Educational Studies – Educational Leadership and Higher Education

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

28. University of New England

The University of New England is a private university with a main campus in Biddeford, Maine. UNE’s history dates back to its founding in 1831. More than 13,743 students enroll annually across the school’s more than 70 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral programs.

The Brookings Institution has ranked UNE second among Maine universities and colleges in terms of increasing career earnings for graduates.

The  University of New England  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

29. University of Southern California

As the oldest private research university in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California enjoys a reputation for offering a robust assortment of bachelors, master’s, and doctoral majors. USC was founded in 1880. It currently enrolls more than 45,000 students across 17 professional schools offering hundreds of majors.

USC’s impressive alumni list includes Neil Armstrong, George Lucas, Robert Zemeckis, John Wayne, Forest Whitaker, Will Ferrell, and Abe Shinzo.

• EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership

The University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior College and University Commission.

30. Vanderbilt Peabody College

Peabody College is one of 10 colleges and schools under the Vanderbilt University umbrella. Peabody College is comprised of five academic colleges offering undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Founded in 1875, Peabody enrolls more than 2,023 students annually.

It has consistently been ranked among the best graduate schools in education by U.S. News & World Report.

• EdD in Leadership and Learning in Organizations

Vanderbilt Peabody College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Online Doctorate in Education Programs

A doctoral program can help you rise to the top of your field and give you the skills to guide teachers and students toward greater knowledge.

• Education (no specialization)

Curriculum & Instruction

Educational leadership, special education.

A number of accredited colleges and universities now offer online Doctor of Education and PhD in Education programs in a wide-range of specializations.

If your passion is for teaching, then it makes sense that you’d choose to earn your doctoral degree in education. This is a generalist degree that may allow you the opportunity to customize your studies or choose an area of specialization. Concentration options may include higher education, administration and classroom technology.

Do you have your sights set on becoming a school administrator? Getting this degree in education online can help qualify you for the job. With a doctorate, you could also consider a job as an instructional coordinator or a special education director. In higher education, you might become an academic dean or a professor.

Outside of the school setting, you could use this degree to improve your abilities as a corporate trainer. If you’re interested in public policy, you could help shape new education laws and initiatives.

The core courses for this degree program may cover topics like education theory, curriculum assessment, classroom diversity, education law and school leadership. You may have the opportunity to choose several electives on topics that are of interest to you.

Your self-selected classes may address early childhood education, social development, special education, literacy instruction, school finance or other relevant issues.

Effective teaching requires that educators use appropriate materials and convey information in meaningful ways. You can explore these concepts in a doctoral program about curriculum and instruction.

This degree can be a good choice for people who want to head up curriculum and instruction departments in school districts or education departments. For example, you could become an instructional coach or a curriculum director.

The knowledge you gain can also increase your capabilities as a principal or a superintendent. Alternatively, you could teach in the education department of a college.

Not all doctoral candidates who choose this program work in formal school settings. This course of study can also be useful if you run education initiatives in museums or community organizations. Your knowledge in this area may also help you shape public policy or become a trusted consultant.

To prepare for these responsibilities, you will probably take courses about the ideas and theories that shape curriculum selection. You may also study how to evaluate whether an instructional approach is working and think about how to conduct research in this area.

The classes may cover additional topics, such as cultivating a team approach to curriculum selection and using technology in the classroom.

School systems and other educational programs need strong leaders who can take the helm of their organizations and make reliable decisions. To become qualified for this type of role, you may want to pursue your degree in educational leadership. Under your direction, you can help organizations thrive and learners take their knowledge to the next level.

Not surprisingly, this degree is best for those who want to assume leadership roles within organizations. Often, those organizations will be traditional school settings; for example, you could be a school principal or a superintendent at the district, regional or state level.

You could also serve as an administrator at levels of education outside of the K–12 bracket — for example, working for a university or a daycare chain.

Getting your educational leadership doctorate has value in non-school settings as well. You could work in a corporation to head up employee development or serve as a training consultant. Another option would be to work as a community services manager who coordinates outreach efforts.

Many of your courses will likely focus on the art and practice of organizational leadership. You will likely discuss how to use creative thinking, make decisions and spearhead changes for the betterment of educational systems.

Some groups of students need individualized instruction or extra classroom supports. Schools’ special education programs are designed to meet those needs. By enrolling in a doctoral program, you can learn to provide strong, effective, student-focused leadership for these programs.

You may be able to pursue a concentration in an area like early childhood or visual impairment.

Special education leaders work in schools and the organizations that support them. You could be a special education director or serve as the administrator of a special-needs school. Working as a curriculum developer can equip classroom teachers with materials that are accessible to students of all ability levels.

Studying special needs can also prepare you to provide leadership in community organizations. You might work in the area of behavioral health or early intervention. You could also make it your mission to shape policies and advocate for special-needs learners at the state or federal level.

During your time in school, you’ll need to study the ethics and laws that should guide special education practice. You may also talk about ways to oversee special education teachers, manage change in your department, make good use of your financial resources and ensure that all students are receiving an appropriate education.

Courses for a Doctorate in Education

Your doctoral program may be largely tailored to your area of interest. Even still, your school will probably have a core set of doctoral classes that every student in your program will need to take. This will probably include some courses that focus on leadership and effective practice in education.

There will also likely be classes that concentrate on conducting research and preparing your dissertation or another final project. Your curriculum may resemble the list below.

• Change and Transition in Schools: Change is inevitable in learning institutions, and your leadership can make all the difference in how your employees respond to times of transition. In addition to learning how to guide others through these situations, you may also discuss how to push for changes that will benefit your staff or students.
• Culture and Diversity in Education: Classrooms are often filled with students from a wide variety of backgrounds, and that can affect educational outcomes. In this course, you can explore how to be sensitive to students’ cultures, and you can discuss how to ensure that education is accessible to all students.
• Education Law: Working in a school system requires abiding by a host of regulations. You’ll need to comply with federal and state laws related to education and employment, and you’ll also need to obey your local school board’s rules. In this course, you may talk about the rights and responsibilities of each member of your school community. Other topics may include navigating legal developments, creating policies for your organization and dealing with legal concerns that may arise.
• Evaluating Learning Outcomes: A particular curriculum or instructional method is only as good as the outcomes it produces. Your studies in this course can teach you to assess programs and procedures to determine whether they’re producing desirable results. It can also help you learn how to approach adjustments when things aren’t working as well as you’d hoped.
• Organizational Leadership: Ultimately, school systems are organizations, so you’ll need to consider team dynamics and administrative structure as you lead. This course may address communication, organizational culture, change management and ethical decision-making.
• Research Design: A doctoral degree usually involves drawing on others’ research and conducting your own studies. You’ll probably take classes to help you understand the research process, learn from scholarly reports, choose an area of study, design informative experiments and present your findings.

You’ll probably have the opportunity to select elective classes, and these may tie in closely with your research area for your dissertation. If you choose a degree concentration, you may have fewer free electives and will instead take classes that are specific to that specialization track.

What Can I Do with a Doctorate in Education?

School roles.

School administration is one of the most popular career paths for this degree. You could become a principal in a K–12 school or work as the superintendent of the district. Superintendents are needed at the regional and state level as well.

Your doctoral degree may also prepare you to take leadership roles over specific school departments. For example, you could become an instructional coordinator, a special education director or a classroom technology director. You could also look for a job as a head teacher.

As an administrator, you could also oversee college operations. Potential roles for you may include president, vice president, provost or academic dean.

Programs for young children need strong leadership as well. You could head up a preschool facility or a daycare center. These roles might be done at the local level or in the upper management of a childcare chain. Tutoring programs have similar needs.

Writing curricula is another way that you can contribute to school settings. Good curriculum programs support both kids and teachers.

Community Roles

Education continues outside the school walls. In organizations throughout your community, education experts are helping pass knowledge on to others.

A museum could be an interesting place for you to work. You could oversee programming to ensure that participants are engaged in meaningful experiences that help them interact with the exhibits or learn more about the world around them. Many museum programs are aimed at young learners, but outreach efforts can target adults as well.

Social services need this sort of expertise as well. Through community programs, people can learn about nutrition, childcare, job placement, literacy and other essential skills. Your work among local populations can better individual families as well as the whole community.

Education professionals work in government and public policy as well. Your expertise could be critical in determining future education policies or establishing new academic standards.

In a corporate setting, you could oversee training programs for new or experienced employees. Effective development programs can increase productivity, reduce waste and boost morale. You could also become a training consultant who works with many different companies.

Academic Roles

Although many doctoral graduates stay in professional practice, others choose an academic track for their careers. This is often done in university settings.

You could be a professor who teaches new students how to become teachers or to improve their skills in education. Your responsibilities might involve teaching undergraduate or graduate students.

Conducting research can be an important career path as well. Your studies may help schools learn more about reaching vulnerable populations, educating special-needs students, supporting teaching staff, engaging parents, keeping kids in school or evaluating curriculum choices.

The research you perform may also play a role in shaping public policy.

Doctorate in Education Salary

It’s often said that people don’t go into teaching for the salary, and, indeed, basic teaching salaries are sometimes low. Despite that, increasing your education and your experience has the potential to significantly increase your earnings.

The following table provides an overview of the salary potential from the Bureau of Labor Statistics of various doctorate in education careers .

Some of these jobs are available to people with only bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Earning your doctorate may qualify you for an automatic salary bump.

The median earnings for these careers can vary significantly throughout the country. For example, elementary and secondary school administrators in New York, California, and Connecticut earn the highest salaries. Wages in areas of Texas and Louisiana may be significantly lower.

Professional Organizations for those with an Education Doctorate Degree

As a leader in education, it’s important to connect with others who feel deeply about reaching students and increasing knowledge. Through membership in a professional organization, you can have opportunities to build relationships with others in your line of work. You can also learn from others’ expertise and share your own ideas with them.

• American Association of School Administrators (AASA) : This group is comprised primarily of school superintendents but also represents education professors and the leaders of related organizations. Joining this group will give you access to industry publications, an online Career Center and professional discounts. At some membership levels, you can be enrolled in the group’s legal support program.
• American Association of University Administrators (AAUA) : Membership in this group is for anyone who has a leadership role in higher education. This includes department heads and institution administrators. As a member, you can read the online journal, participate in professional development initiatives and purchase professional or personal insurance. You may also have opportunities to visit other universities or serve on a committee.
• American Educational Research Association (AERA) : If you’re a researcher, then membership in AERA can help you improve your professional skills and share your findings with others. When you join, you can participate in the organization’s various divisions and special interest groups. You’ll receive discounts on publications and conferences, access to the job board, and political advocacy.
• International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) : Those who are passionate about using technology to enhance education tend to appreciate the support of ISTE. Membership in this group includes a magazine, webinars, discounts and videos of past conferences. You will also be able to use the group’s school standards.
• National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) : School administrators at the elementary and middle school levels learn from one another through membership in NAESP. When you join, you can network with other members through online platforms, read newsletters and magazines, take online courses and receive professional discounts on conference registration and other resources.
• National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) : If you lead at the middle school or high school level, then NASSP can be a good resource for you. As a member, you may have opportunities to attend both in-person and online training programs. The group will provide advocacy for your profession, and you can rely on the included liability insurance policy.
• National Education Association (NEA) : Not just for administrators and other leaders, NEA represents people from throughout the education profession. This includes teachers, aides, administrators, substitute teachers and more. You can join this group if you work in schools at any level, from early education through college. Benefits include personal and professional discounts, website resources, group insurance rates and political advocacy.
• National School Boards Association (NSBA) : State school board associations can participate in NSBA so their members and superintendents can benefit from networking opportunities. The group offers a magazine, a newsletter and an annual conference. NSBA also runs the Council of School Attorneys.

Joining a professional organization can benefit you as a leader. As a result, it can have positive effects on those under you as well as the students in your care. Collaborating with others has the potential to make you a better teacher, administrator and advocate for education.

Certification and Licensure Following a Doctorate in Education Degree

For some positions, just getting a doctorate isn’t enough. You’ll also need to be licensed by your state.

Teachers, especially those in public schools, need to hold state teaching certification. The same goes for school administrators. Principals and superintendents must have administrator licensure. Rules and regulations vary by state, so you’ll need to consult your local board of education to learn how to fulfill the requirements.

You may need to be certified for teaching education at the college level as well. Because this job involves training future teachers, your state may want proof that you are fully qualified for that responsibility.

If you are interested in a licensure position, it’s a good idea to consider your state’s requirements before you begin your schooling. That way, you can make sure that the program you choose will provide the proper preparation.

Admission Requirements for Online PhD or Online EdD Programs

When applying to accelerated doctoral programs in education online, you’ll want to set yourself apart from the pack by submitting a strong application that showcases your strengths.

Doctoral programs often rely on a set of qualification standards for their applicants. You will certainly need to possess a bachelor’s degree, and you may need to have a master’s degree as well. The college may be looking for minimum GPA or test scores.

For some programs, you may need to have taken certain prerequisite classes or hold a teaching license in your state.

Admissions requirements vary among schools. You may need to submit an application packet that includes many of the following elements.

• Transcripts: These should come from all of your previous college experiences at the undergraduate or graduate level.
• Resume: Providing a record of your work history demonstrates how much professional experience you are bringing into the program.
• Letters of reference: The admissions committee may want to see two or three letters. You should ask professional or academic colleagues to provide these reviews.
• Personal statement: This essay should express your motivation for pursuing doctoral studies and address a potential research topic for your dissertation.
• Test scores: Some doctoral programs require GRE scores as part of the admissions process. You may be able to qualify for a waiver if you have sufficient professional experience or high GPA scores.

In addition, there will probably be a basic application form that you must fill out. A fee may be required.

Be sure to start the application process early. It can take time to collect letters of recommendation and to craft your best essay. By beginning well in advance of the deadline, you won’t feel rushed.

After gathering your materials, submit them as soon as possible so you won’t have to worry about last-minute delays causing you to miss the application deadline.

Accreditation

For a college degree at any level, you should always choose a regionally accredited school. Whether you’re earning an undergraduate degree, a master’s or a doctorate, you need to know that you’re going to get a quality education. Regional accreditation serves as a seal of approval for a school’s academic offerings.

There are seven organizations in the U.S. that are authorized to grant regional accreditation. Your school might be accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) or one of the other accreditors.

Keep in mind that regional accreditation and national accreditation are two different things. Regional accreditation is a more rigorous process and is generally more respected by employers and other universities. For better post-graduation job prospects and the opportunity to transfer credits elsewhere, don’t settle for less than regional accreditation.

Financial Aid for an Education Doctoral Degree

Getting an EdD or a PhD can be expensive, so look into tuition help from the government, your school or an outside source.

State and federal government programs may be able to reduce your tuition costs through low-interest loans or work-study arrangements. If your financial need is great enough, you may also qualify for grants. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility.

Some schools provide stipends for doctoral students who serve as research assistants or teach classes. Opportunities may vary for online programs, so talk to your school to learn more.

Scholarships and fellowships are monetary gifts that are available to some doctoral students. To earn these, you may need to distinguish yourself as the best applicant.

Scholarships are often intended to help with tuition, and fellowships may be geared toward funding research projects or educational travel. If you need additional assistance, consider private student loans.

What Are the Cheapest Online EdD Programs?

Finding the cheapest online doctorate for you may take some digging, but keeping your tuition rates low will be worth the work. Start by looking into the public universities in your state; for many students, in-state schools offer the lowest tuition rates. Consider also whether you have any credits to transfer in.

If so, a college that allows a large number of transfer credits may be your most affordable option. Finally, inquire about financial aid options. The school that gives you the largest scholarship or work-study package or may be the best one to select.

What Is the Difference between an ED D and a PhD in Education?

After you get your doctoral degree, do you plan to put your education into practice in a school district or another hands-on setting? If so, you may be interested in the online EdD programs no GRE . This is professional doctorate is intended for people who are involved with the daily work of teaching young students or increasing knowledge among the general public.

On the other hand, if you want to be a college professor or a researcher, then a PhD may be the better choice for you. This academic track focuses on furthering educational theories and equipping university students with teaching skills.

Is an Education Doctorate Degree Worth It?

Yes, an education doctorate degree is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 5% job growth in education, training, and library occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include adult literacy teacher, SPED teacher, instructional coordinator, university dean, and K–12 principal.

Few things are more important than helping students get a good education. If advancing this cause is your life’s mission, then fully equip yourself for the job with a doctorate in education. By earning an online doctorate in education, not only can you have greater influence over others’ learning experiences, but you may also increase your salary.

Earning an online degree doctorate in education may allow you to study from home while maintaining your full-time job. Apply to flexible, accelerated programs to complete your doctoral studies in education on a schedule that works for you.