EdD vs. PhD in Education: Why Choose an EdD?

EdD or PhD? Aspiring education leaders face this question as soon as they begin exploring options for terminal degrees. Both the EdD and PhD prepare graduates for rewarding careers and leadership roles in education. However, they vary significantly in terms of study focus and typical career paths. 

Trying to decide which academic path best suits your desired career goals and accomplishments? This article, which explores the differences between an EdD and PhD in Education, can help. (If you don’t already have a master’s degree, you may also want to read about the differences between an MAT and MEd degree.)

What Is a Doctor of Education (EdD) Degree?

An EdD is an advanced degree designed to prepare graduates to succeed in leadership roles in higher education. EdD program curricula typically include coursework focusing on educational policy, current social and political issues impacting students and teachers, and topics related to leading educational organizations, such as collaboration, communication, team management, and budgeting.

Upon graduation, EdD students should have the skills to pursue senior leadership positions dedicated to creating strategies and implementing solutions to help schools and educational organizations succeed.

What Is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree?

A PhD is an advanced degree that individuals can typically earn after attaining a master’s degree. A PhD can be attained in many subjects, including education. 

In contrast to EdD coursework, which typically focuses on systemic progress and trends, PhD coursework is focused on research examining education theory and methods to influence and change teaching methods. PhD studies usually culminate in a dissertation, which is an in-depth research project related to a specific topic. 

These differences help explain why the EdD is sometimes characterized as a professional doctorate and the PhD is characterized as an academic doctorate.

EdD vs. PhD: Common Career Paths

Your career goals will impact your choice of a doctoral degree. While some career options overlap, EdD and PhD programs generally prepare graduates for different career options with varied salary ranges. Continue reading to learn more. 

Career Options with an EdD

An EdD primarily prepares graduates to become leaders and strategists in the education field. Career options for EdD graduates include: 

• School principal
• School superintendent
• University or college president
• College dean
• Postsecondary education administrator
• Training and development manager

Career Options with a PhD

PhD programs emphasize research, and graduates commonly work in academia or research roles. A person with a PhD in education typically pursues the following roles:

• University professor
• Consultant
• Researcher in a government education agency or organization
• Leadership role in school or university administration

EdD vs. PhD: Salary Comparison

The average annual salary for EdD degree holders is around $88,000. However, income for EdD professionals varies significantly by role. School principals or headteachers earn around $104,000 per year, while a university or college president earns close to $156,000.

The average annual salary for professionals with a PhD in education is about $87,000, also varying by job role and seniority. Postsecondary/higher education assistant professors earn roughly $75,000 per year, while an academic dean earns around $104,000. Full professors of education earn an annual average income of $120,000, with salaries ranging widely from institution to institution.

Growth Outlook for EdD vs. PhD

Recent studies indicate that 55 percent of college presidents plan to step down in the next five years, while a 2023 report found that 46 percent of district superintendents will leave within two to three years. These data indicate significant demand for education leaders going forward.EdD graduates can expect to have a positive employment outlook. 

Meanwhile, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that employment of postsecondary teachers should grow by 8 percent through 2033, faster than the average growth across all occupations. Individuals with a PhD in Education should also face an attractive employment market. 

Why Choose an EdD Program?

Ultimately, your career aspirations should inform your choice of a doctoral degree. If you hope to take on leadership positions focused on developing educational strategies and influencing policy (rather than pursuing a career in academia), an EdD is likely the right choice. However, no two EdD programs are exactly alike. You’ll need to research the details of each program to determine whether it is the right fit for you. 

When evaluating degree programs, consider whether the specialization options align with your interests. American University’s online EdD in Education Policy and Leadership focuses on skills and expertise required for senior positions in school district central offices, independent schools, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and advocacy organizations. You should also consider each program’s modality options. Can you complete some or all requirements online, or does the program demand on-campus participation?

Why Pursue an Online EdD?

Choosing an online EdD program provides several benefits, especially if you plan to continue working while pursuing your degree. Online EdD programs, like the one offered by AU, combine synchronous live online classes with asynchronous, self-paced coursework and assignments to afford maximum flexibility. This program design makes it easier for students to fit their studies and coursework into their busy schedules. Students who pursue an EdD while continuing to work enjoy another benefit: They can immediately apply what they’ve learned to their professional lives. 

Become an Education Leader 

Educational institutions need effective leaders to guide them forward through a rapidly evolving landscape. Earning an EdD can prepare you to fill essential leadership roles.

American University’s online EdD in Education Policy and Leadership program offers students a flexible option to participate in an innovative EdD program from one of the nation’s leading universities. Online program delivery means professionals can pursue their educational leadership goals and connect with established thought leaders and decision-makers while balancing other responsibilities. Intrigued? Contact an enrollment advisor to learn more about the program and its admissions requirements.