Choosing between an Ed.D. and Ph.D. in Education depends on your professional goals and how you want to impact the field of education. At the core, the difference is this: An Ed.D. is a practice-focused doctoral degree for working professionals looking to lead change in real-world settings, while a Ph.D. is a research-focused doctorate designed for those who aim to generate new knowledge and teach at the university level.
Both degrees are terminal doctoral programs that prepare education professionals for roles in educational systems. However, their structure, dissertation requirements and post-graduation career options have a number of differences. This article breaks down those differences, including program goals, academic focus, project types and long-term career paths, to help you decide which degree best aligns with your professional aspirations.
The University of West Alabama’s online Ed.D. in Rural Education is a standout example of a program designed for working professionals. With a focus on addressing educational disparities in underserved communities, UWA’s online program equips leaders to drive practical solutions where they’re needed most.
| Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. in Education Degrees | ||
| Category | Ed.D. | Ph.D. in Education |
| Purpose | Practice-focused doctorate for professionals addressing real-world educational challenges | Research-focused doctorate for advancing academic theory and producing original research |
| Primary audience | Mid-career educators, administrators and practitioners | Aspiring researchers, scholars and higher education faculty |
| Curriculum focus | Educational leadership, policy, organizational change and practical research methods | Research methodology, data analysis, theory development and scholarly inquiry |
| Final project | Dissertation addressing a significant problem of practice | Dissertation significantly contributing to academic literature and peer-reviewed research |
| Format and flexibility | Often part-time or fully online to accommodate working professionals | Typically full-time with possible on-campus residency requirements |
| Typical duration | 3-5 years | 4-7 years |
| Career paths | Superintendent, education administrator, curriculum director or policy advisor | University professor, education researcher, policy analyst, or academic consultant |
| Use of “doctor” title | Yes, commonly used in leadership and professional settings | Yes, widely used in academic and scholarly settings |
| Best fit for | Those aiming to lead and improve schools, districts or educational organizations | Those seeking academic careers or contributing to research and policy development |
What Is an Ed.D.?
The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) is a professional doctorate tailored for educators and administrators seeking leadership positions in K-12, higher education and nonprofit sectors. The Ed.D. focuses on the practical application of evidence-based strategies to solve pressing challenges in education, rather than theoretical research.
Ed.D. programs are designed for working professionals who want to apply research directly to practice, improving instruction, leading organizational change or influencing education policy. Programs like the University of West Alabama’s online Ed.D. in Rural Education highlight this approach by preparing students to lead in areas such as rural education, policy development and educational technology. With a curriculum built for real-world leadership and accessibility for mid-career professionals, the Ed.D. degree is ideal for those committed to solving tangible problems in the field of education.
What Is a Ph.D. in Education?
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education is an advanced, research-oriented degree aimed at individuals interested in studying the theories behind how people learn and how educational systems function. Ph.D. in Education graduates typically pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, as well as in policy think tanks or consulting roles. P
h.D. in Education programs are designed to deepen academic knowledge and expand the body of educational research, with a strong emphasis on methodology, data analysis and theory development. This degree is ideal for those who wish to make an impact through scholarly contributions, whether in universities, government or research institutions.
Key Differences Between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D. in Education
Both the Ed.D. and the Ph.D. in Education are terminal degrees that prepare individuals for advanced roles. However, they differ significantly in purpose, structure and career prospects. These distinctions shape everything from coursework and program goals to dissertation requirements and career trajectories.
Program Goals
The Ed.D. is designed to develop practitioner-scholars, or professionals who conduct and apply research to solve problems in schools, districts and education-focused organizations. These learners often work in educational leadership roles, using data and evidence-based practices to drive positive change in real-world settings.
By contrast, the Ph.D. in Education prepares scholars to conduct education research and advance theory. Its program goals prioritize academic inquiry and original contributions to the field, and it often leads to publishing peer-reviewed research and teaching in higher education.
Coursework and Program Structure
Ed.D. programs, such as the University of West Alabama’s online Ed.D. in Rural Education, are designed for working professionals who need flexibility. Many programs offer part-time or fully online formats that allow learners to balance academic progress with career and personal responsibilities. Coursework typically emphasizes educational leadership, policy implementation and the practical application of research.
Ph.D. programs are generally more research-intensive and often require full-time enrollment. These programs may include on-campus residency requirements and a more structured academic pace. Because of their focus on original research and dissertation development, Ph.D. programs can take longer to complete.
While timelines vary by institution and student pace, most Ed.D. programs are completed in about three to five years, particularly when offered in part-time or online formats. Ph.D. in Education programs often take four to seven years, depending on the depth of the research and dissertation requirements.
Career Paths and Outcomes
People who earn an Ed.D. often step into leadership roles in schools, districts or education-focused organizations. Some become superintendents or education administrators, while others work as curriculum developers or policy makers at the district or state level. Because the degree centers on strategic decision-making and practical problem-solving, graduates get regular practice weighing trade-offs, building consensus and turning plans into action.
Ph.D. in Education graduates typically seek academic careers working as postsecondary teachers, education researchers or consultants specializing in education theory and policy. While both degrees can lead to positions in academia, the Ph.D. is more aligned with teaching and research roles at the university level.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary education administrators earn a median annual salary of $103,960, while postsecondary teachers earned around $83,980. Salaries can vary depending on role, institution and region, but both degrees offer strong earning potential for professionals committed to advancing educational systems.
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Explore DegreeWhich Degree Is Right for Me?
To decide whether to pursue an Ed.D. or a Ph.D., consider your career goals and how you want to contribute to the field of education. If you want to teach at the university level or conduct academic research, consider a Ph.D. in Education. This path:
- Emphasizes theory and advancing educational theory
- Leads to higher education or policy research roles
- Is ideal if you’re focused on publishing or a specialization
If you want to lead schools, districts, or education-focused organizations, you might prefer an Ed.D. (Doctor of Education). Common roles for Ed.D. graduates include:
- School superintendent
- Curriculum developer
- Education policy experts
- Instructional designers
Programs like the University of West Alabama’s Ed.D. in Rural Education help prepare professionals to address disparities in rural and underserved communities and lead where educational equity matters most.
Why Choose the University of West Alabama’s Ed.D. in Rural Education?
The University of West Alabama’s online Ed.D. in Rural Education stands out for its commitment to real-world impact and inclusive leadership. Designed specifically for professionals pursuing leadership positions in education, this program focuses on rural education — an area where educational inequities often go unaddressed.
UWA’s online education programs emphasize flexibility, allowing working professionals to complete their doctoral degree at their own pace. With a practical curriculum and expert faculty dedicated to mentorship, the program supports adult learners in applying what they learn directly to their careers.
Whether your professional goals include transforming rural school systems, advancing education policy or supporting under-resourced communities, UWA’s education doctorate equips you with the tools to lead. It’s a professional degree built for impact in schools, districts and beyond.
Ready to Advance Your Education Career?
Whether you choose an Ed.D. or a Ph.D., both degrees position you to lead in education and effect change across a variety of learning environments. From academia to administration, these advanced degrees open doors to meaningful, high-impact roles.
The University of West Alabama offers a flexible online Ed.D. in Rural Education that supports working professionals aiming to take the next step in their education leadership journey. With its focus on real-world leadership, community transformation and professional growth, the program is ideal for those pursuing career advancement through an accessible, accredited education doctorate.
If you’re still exploring your options, an online Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree may also be worth considering as an intermediate step toward a doctoral degree. Whatever your path, UWA’s education programs are built to support your leadership goals, wherever they take you. Learn more about UWA’s online Ed.D. in Rural Education and how it prepares you to lead in education. Our advisors can help you decide if it aligns with your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many prospective students have questions when comparing doctoral degrees in education. Here are answers to some of the most common queries.
Is a Ph.D. more prestigious than an Ed.D.?
Both the Ed.D. and Ph.D. are respected terminal degrees. The perception of prestige often depends on your academic or professional goals. A Ph.D. may carry more weight in academic circles due to its focus on educational research and theory, while an Ed.D. is highly valued in leadership and administrative roles. If you’re unsure which path best supports your long-term career advancement, it’s a good idea to consult with academic advisors or program faculty.
Are you called a doctor with an Ed.D.?
Yes, graduates of both the Ed.D. and Ph.D. programs earn the title “Doctor.” Those holding an Ed.D. degree often use the title in professional settings, such as schools, administrative offices and education consulting, especially where their credentials highlight leadership and applied expertise in the field. Ph.D. degree holders often use the title “Doctor” in research and post-secondary educational settings.
Can you be a professor with an Ed.D.?
Yes, Ed.D. graduates can serve as postsecondary teachers, particularly in education programs, leadership courses or within a school of education. Common roles include adjunct professor, curriculum coordinator and education administrator. However, if your goal is to focus primarily on academic research or secure a tenure-track university position, a Ph.D. in Education is typically the more aligned academic path