We bet you know someone who’s either pursuing a Doctorate of Education degree to become an educational leader or is trying to decide between a Doctorate in Education (EdD) and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Education (Ph.D.). But we think you might not be sure what the differences are between these two degrees.
Since both certifications require years of rigorous research and course work, it can be difficult for prospective students to know which degree is correct. The Ph.D. may provide more prestige for many since it typically requires at least three years of post-graduate coursework, including teaching experience under supervision.
What the Difference?
While both ed.D and Ph.D. programs consist of coursework and research, it’s the Ph.D. that requires students to pass an initial, comprehensive doctoral examination to obtain their degree.
The Ph.D. vs. EdD Differences
While both ed.D and Ph.D. programs consist of coursework and research, it’s the Ph.D. that requires students to pass an initial, comprehensive doctoral examination to obtain their degree. The EdD does not require a dissertation or any original research. The EdD is often a more viable option for students interested in advancing their career as a school or higher education leaders than for pursuing a Ph.D.
Ph.D. vs. EdD Certifications
Although some states offer both certificates, the research portion of a Ph.D. is usually less rigorous than that of an EdD. While both programs require students to complete a mix of coursework and research, the Ph.D. may require students to write an original dissertation related to the field of study or project. By contrast, candidates for an EdD typically will receive their certification after documenting their academic achievements and commitment to a career as a school or higher education leader.
A Student’s Choice between Ph.D. and EdD?
Many prospective graduate students choose between an EdD and Ph.D. because they have different goals related to their career goals as to school or higher education leaders. A Ph.D. may be a better fit for students who plan to pursue a career as an academic researcher. By contrast, candidates who want to earn their certification as educational leaders and increase their employment options may be better served by a Doctorate of Education degree.
EdD vs. Ph.D.? Which Degree is Right for Me?
For some, the decision between an EdD and Ph.D. boils down to their long-term career goals. Either degree can provide credentials related to school or higher education platforms to create and sell online courses and both certificates offer students paths to advancement within education. Since both educational certifications require years of advanced coursework, prospective students need to consider where they see themselves in ten years and plan accordingly.
What are the courses and syllabus required for each degree?
For both a Ph.D. and an EdD, students typically will need to complete courses in research and data analysis, program evaluation administration, school or higher education leadership and administration, and a range of education topics. The degree plans may differ depending on the school or university to which a student is applying. Because their courses were selling online courses platform For example, the coursework for an EdD may focus on a specific area of studies such as curriculum or assessment. In contrast, the curriculum for a Ph.D. may include more than one related field of study.
Aspiring candidates for either educational certification will have to pass various widely used exams throughout the world. For instance, the certification exams for both a Ph.D. and an EdD include a dissertation exam. The results of these exams will ensure students have solid academic credentials and have demonstrated their commitment to the field of education as they prepare themselves for top-level employment opportunities as school or higher education administrators.
What are the job prospects in a particular field?
Both an EdD and Ph.D. can result in jobs that lead to academic leadership positions in schools, colleges, or universities. For example, both educational certifications allow students to pursue careers as educational researchers at independent consulting firms. A student who earns their Ph.D. may choose to work with a local school district while holding advanced degrees in education at public universities or accredited private schools.
In addition to a Ph.D. or an EdD, many educational leaders will pursue a program or two related to specific certifications. For example, many schools and higher education leaders will earn a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed) to prepare them for the responsibilities of school administration. A student planning to become an educational leader may also earn certifications from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).
