{"id":15,"date":"2025-07-03T04:31:40","date_gmt":"2025-07-03T04:31:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/?p=15"},"modified":"2025-07-03T04:31:40","modified_gmt":"2025-07-03T04:31:40","slug":"edd-vs-phd-whats-the-difference-in-education-fields","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/?p=15","title":{"rendered":"EdD vs PhD: What\u2019s the Difference in Education Fields"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Aspiring educators can\u00a0pursue an advanced degree\u00a0if they want a more prominent teaching position.\u00a0If you\u2019re interested in a high-level career in education, you have two doctoral degree options: a\u00a0Doctor of Education\u00a0(EdD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s consider the difference between PhD and EdD paths. We\u2019ll highlight key differences in curricula, prerequisite requirements,\u00a0application processes\u00a0and typical career paths that graduates pursue.\u00a0Keep reading to determine whether an EdD vs PhD is a better choice for you.<\/p>\n\n\n

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EdD vs PhD<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/th>Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education<\/td>Doctor of Education (EdD)<\/td><\/tr>
Career plan<\/td>Research and education<\/td>Leadership and administration<\/td><\/tr>
Average program length<\/td>4\u20137 years<\/td>3\u20134 years<\/td><\/tr>
Dissertation?<\/td>Yes<\/td>Yes, typically<\/td><\/tr>
Possible concentrations<\/td>Applied Data Science (ADS)Educational TechnologyHigher EducationCounselor EducationSpecial EducationTeaching and LearningCurriculum and Instruction<\/td>HealthcareSpecial EducationCurriculum and InstructionInstructional DesignReading and LiteracyAdult EducationOrganizational LeadershipAthletic Training SpecializationExecutive Leadership SpecializationNurse Educator SpecializationTeaching and Learning Specialization<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While both degrees are at the doctoral level, their focus is unique.\u00a0The main difference between PhD and EdD degrees is that a PhD is for graduates seeking careers in education or research-based roles, while an EdD is designed for candidates who want to\u00a0pursue leadership positions\u00a0with a real-world focus.<\/strong>1<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consider the difference between EdD and PhD career paths. An EdD career path is more aligned with becoming a university dean or director of research, while those pursuing a PhD would likely choose a career as a college professor or research scholar.2<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s also a difference between PhD and EdD program lengths. The average time to complete a PhD in education is 4\u20137 years, whereas an EdD can take 3\u20134 years to complete.<\/strong> However, the number of years it will take for you to complete either program will depend on if you\u2019re pursuing full-time or part-time education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Below we\u2019ll review PhD vs EdD degrees in-depth, including their education requirements, career options, program costs and job outlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Does PhD Stand for in Education?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A PhD in Education is a Doctor of Philosophy degree designed for candidates pursuing a career in research and academia.<\/strong> Most PhD graduates work in a university as a professor, researcher or both. A PhD (vs EdD) curriculum is typically more theory based.2<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

PhD candidates aim to become thought leaders in the field of education\u2014conducting and publishing research on advanced theoretical topics within their specialization, as well as sharing knowledge with the next generation of students. The difference between EdD and PhD graduates is that the latter emphasizes research and devotes their career to advancing the body of knowledge within their field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Education Requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Earning a PhD in Education is a time-intensive process, but it\u2019s also the highest academic degree in the field. On average, it takes 4\u20137 years to complete a PhD.<\/strong>3<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To obtain a PhD, candidates must hold at least a bachelor\u2019s degree and complete the GRE or an equivalent entrance exam. Depending on the field of study, candidates will then complete either a master\u2019s degree or proceed directly to PhD coursework. During the program, candidates will write a dissertation and defend it before receiving their PhD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Can I Do with a PhD?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Most PhD coursework is theoretical, and the degree is a popular choice for those who aspire to become tenured at a university. The most common career options for PhD candidates include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. Professor:\u00a0<\/strong>A professor, also known as a postsecondary teacher, instructs college- or university-level students on advanced topics. In addition to teaching, many professors conduct research and publish papers on new topics within their field. Postsecondary teachers earned a median annual\u00a0salary\u00a0of $83,980 in 2024.4<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Education Administrator:\u00a0<\/strong>PhD graduates may work at kindergarten through secondary schools in administrative roles such as a principal or superintendent. Garnering an average salary of $111,020 in 2023, a role as an education administrator is a popular choice for PhD graduates with a background in working with younger students.5<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Chief Learning Officer:<\/strong>\u00a0PhD graduates who prefer to work in a corporate environment rather than at a university may pursue a career path as a Chief Learning Officer (CLO). Job responsibilities for CLOs include retaining top talent, implementing training and mentorship programs and increasing the internal talent available within the company. In 2024, the median annual salary for a top-level executive was $105,350.6<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Medical Science Liaison (MSL):\u00a0<\/strong>Another option for PhD graduates who want to work outside of academia is a career as a Medical Science Liaison (MSL), whose job responsibilities include building professional relationships with industry leaders in research-related areas. One of the key advantages of becoming an MSL is that it provides more freedom to learn, teach and travel than traditional PhD careers. In 2025, the average salary for an MSL is $154,127.7<\/sup><\/a>*<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Job Outlook<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    PhD candidates typically pursue careers in academia, focusing on education or performing research in their field of study.<\/strong> For postsecondary educators and researchers, the projected job growth is 8% between 2023 and 2033.4<\/sup><\/a> This is due to the expected rise in enrollment at postsecondary institutions such as colleges and universities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    What Is an EdD?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    A Doctor of Education (EdD) is a practice-based professional degree that focuses on research applications and leadership roles.<\/strong> The first EdD degree was granted by Harvard University in 1921. The EdD vs PhD degree was created to develop seasoned educators to serve as faculty at the university level. The difference between EdD and PhD candidates is that the former are solution-focused, aiming to identify and strategize ways to improve real-world problems.8<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Along with core coursework, the difference between EdD and PhD programs is that the former offers opportunities to specialize in areas such as healthcare education, teaching and learning and executive leadership. While\u00a0specializations\u00a0are optional when earning an EdD vs PhD in education, they allow you to gain deeper knowledge and expertise in areas aligned with specific career goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Education Requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    To apply for an EdD (vs PhD) in education program, candidates must hold a master\u2019s degree and meet other requirements specific to each program. Once the candidate is accepted into a program, earning an EdD typically requires 3\u20134 years of study, based on USAHS\u2019 EdD program structure.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Another distinction between EdD and PhD programs is that the former often attracts students who are simultaneously working professionally in the field. For example, the program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) offers a flexible online curriculum, allowing students to continue working while completing their degree at a pace that fits their lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The EdD program culminates in a dissertation (or dissertation in practice) that allows EdD candidates to tackle real-world problems or contribute original research in their field of study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    What Can I Do with an EdD?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    An EdD is a valuable degree in several fields, such as higher education, government and nonprofit organizations.\u00a0Some common EdD career paths include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    1. Healthcare Educator:<\/strong>\u00a0Some EdD programs focus on pedagogical strategies within\u00a0specialized areas of expertise. For example, USAHS\u2019 EdD program trains educators in health sciences. Graduates train the next generation of healthcare practitioners in nursing, athletic training and other areas, or they may teach and serve as mentors in healthcare administration. Teaching settings include universities, nursing schools, healthcare organizations and more. In 2024, the median annual pay for a health education specialist was $63,000.9<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
    2. Provost:\u00a0<\/strong>A provost is typically a senior-level administrator at a college or university who functions as the school\u2019s chief academic officer. Provosts help develop institutional goals and strategies, determine fund allocation and assist with the school\u2019s daily operations. In 2024, the median pay for a postsecondary education administrator, such as a provost, was $103,960 per year.10<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
    3. Dean:<\/strong>\u00a0A dean is an upper-level university administrator who oversees several related departments or an entire college within the university. Deans may also work in operations-related positions, including dean of student affairs or dean of admissions. The median annual pay for postsecondary education administrators (including deans) in 2024 was $103,960.10<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
    4. Top-Level Executive:<\/strong>\u00a0An EdD vs PhD degree can prepare candidates for\u00a0executive roles<\/a>\u00a0such as a CLO or Chief Academic Officer (CAO) within an educational institution or a business with an educational component. In these positions, an executive creates strategies to solve business problems and helps the organization establish and meet goals for business development. In 2024, the median annual pay for a top-level executive was $105,350.6<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
    5. Curriculum Designer:\u00a0<\/strong>Curriculum designers, also known as Instructional Coordinators, develop educational programs and instructional materials\u2014in print or online\u2014for schools, organizations and companies. They can also help teachers and trainers implement the curriculum and evaluate learning outcomes. The median annual pay in 2024 for curriculum designers was $74,720.11<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      Job Outlook<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      An EdD is a degree for experienced educators who want to further their knowledge to improve the overarching education system. Although most EdD graduates hold jobs in the education sector, other opportunities include leadership roles in business, government and nonprofit organizations.<\/strong>12<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Postsecondary education administrators have a projected growth of 3% from 2023 to 2033, which is as fast as the national average for all occupations.10<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      PhD vs EdD: 5 Factors To Consider<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      Here are some important factors to consider when determining whether an EdD or PhD is right for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

       1. Career Goals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      First, think about your career goals. The main difference between the EdD and PhD in Education paths depends on where you see yourself long-term.<\/strong> If you\u2019re interested in educating future students and publishing theory-based research, you might consider pursuing a PhD in Education. If you are more interested in applying research to real-world foundational and institutional issues, an EdD may be a better choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      2. Day-to-Day Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Consider what your day-to-day work would consist of<\/strong> as a graduate of each degree program. With a PhD, you would likely teach classes and work with graduate students to perform research. An EdD vs PhD in Education may lead to a career focused on creating educational policy and developing leadership in educational institutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      3. Types of Coursework<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Completing a degree at the doctoral level is rigorous<\/strong> regardless of whether you choose an EdD or PhD. In PhD programs, coursework typically centers on conducting qualitative and quantitative research culminating in a dissertation. By contrast, EdD coursework focuses on leadership and education, treating research as a component rather than the main focus of the degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      4. Online Programs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      When it comes to remote learning, there isn\u2019t a difference between EdD and PhD in Education programs. If you\u2019re already working as an educator or aren\u2019t able to commute, online programs give you the flexibility<\/strong> to complete an EdD or PhD at home and at your pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      5. Specialization Options<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      If you want to specialize within your degree, do some research to determine which EdD or PhD programs have options <\/strong>to concentrate on the area you\u2019re interested in. While concentrations differ at each university, EdD and PhD programs have certain staples. PhD concentrations include areas such as educational psychology and special education, while popular EdD concentrations include educational leadership and teaching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      In terms of excellent career options, there is no difference between EdD and PhD in Education programs. An EdD or PhD in Education offers amazing opportunities. Regardless of the decision you make, it\u2019s essential to choose the right career path for you, the one that best aligns with your career goals.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

      Aspiring educators can\u00a0pursue an advanced degree\u00a0if they want a more prominent teaching position.\u00a0If you\u2019re interested<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-15","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=15"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17,"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15\/revisions\/17"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/16"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=15"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=15"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studyguideinfo.online\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=15"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}