What is an EdD Degree: Explore Possibilities with UWA Online Rural Education Doctorate

The Doctor of Education (EdD) is a degree designed for professionals who want to advance their careers in education through applied research and leadership. Unlike the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, which emphasizes original research and scholarly contributions to a field, the EdD prioritizes the application of existing knowledge to solve practical problems within educational settings.

This degree prepares individuals to become leaders, administrators and policy makers who can contribute to positive change in schools. The online EdD in Rural Education program at the University of West Alabama (UWA offers a specialized focus on rural education, addressing the particular challenges and opportunities present in these settings.  

Rural Education: Unique Characteristics and Challenges

Rural education presents a distinct set of considerations. Brookings defines rural areas by population density and distance from urban centers, resulting in varied educational experiences. Schools in these regions often face challenges related to funding, teacher recruitment and retention and limited access to resources. The National Rural Education Association (NREA) identifies several categories of primary concern for current research, including:  

• Access to high-quality instruction: Rural schools may struggle to attract and retain qualified teachers, particularly in specialized subjects.  
• Technology and connectivity: Limited broadband access can hinder the integration of technology into teaching and learning.  
• Funding disparities:Rural school districts often receive less funding per student than their urban counterparts.  
• Student support services: Access to counselors, social workers and other support professionals may be limited.
• College and career readiness: Students in rural areas may have fewer opportunities to explore post-secondary options.  

Equity gaps in education, as documented by Education Week, have significant academic consequences. Students from underserved populations, including those in rural areas, may experience lower achievement rates, reduced access to advanced coursework and diminished opportunities for college and career success. These gaps can be attributed to various reasons, including socioeconomic status, resource disparities and systemic biases. Addressing these inequities requires targeted interventions and a commitment to providing all students with a high-quality education.  

Hulett, Wyoming: A Model for Rural School Improvement

Hulett, Wyoming, offers an example of successful rural school improvement initiatives. Despite its remote location and limited resources, the school has implemented strategies to enhance student achievement and engagement. These strategies include:  

• Community partnerships. Building strong relationships with local businesses and organizations to provide students with real-world learning experiences.
• Technology integration. Utilizing available technology to expand access to online resources and virtual learning opportunities. The school acquired handheld GPS units, interactive math materials and the use of Vocabulary.com.
• Individualized instruction. Providing targeted support to meet the unique needs of each student.

These types of local efforts demonstrate that even with limited resources, positive changes for student learning are possible. Earning an advanced degree can help teachers discover how to do more with less.

UWA’s Online EdD in Rural Education: Preparing Leaders for Change

UWA’s online EdD in Rural Education program provides educators with knowledge and skills to address the complexities of rural education. Courses such as Challenges in Rural Education allow students to examine the specific obstacles rural schools face and develop evidence-based solutions. Leadership for Organizational Change prepares students to lead initiatives that promote positive change within their schools and districts. Family Engagement and Partnership Development in Rural Education emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with families and communities to support student success.  

Students choose from six specialized tracks to further enhance their career paths:

• The Counseling track prepares educators to work as skilled advocates for students and families.
• The Higher Education Administration track targets educators seeking administration careers.
• The Instructional Technology track develops technological insights for educators with a focus on rural areas that often lack access.
• The Library Media track prepares leaders to transform rural school districts through instructional media and library services.
• The Organizational Change and Leadership track is ideal for program directors to drive innovation in rural education.
• The Teacher Leader track provides key skill development for expert educators on their path to leadership.

The program’s online format allows educators to pursue their doctoral studies without disrupting their professional lives. Students can take classes and participate in discussions. The program’s focus on applied research and leadership development prepares graduates to become effective agents of change in rural educational settings. Graduates are prepared to analyze data, develop and evaluate programs and advocate for policies that support rural students and schools. The EdD program allows for the creation of leaders who can bring positive changes to the unique educational environment of rural schools.