Education constantly evolves. Policy affects the topography of the learning environment. Finances affect available programming. And region affects curriculum and instruction and its implementation. All of these areas overlap, and all of these areas affect change in education. However, the most important person that affects change is the person who leads the charge.
In the best online doctorate programs, you will learn how to be the change that you want to see in education. No, your decisions are not entirely autonomous, and no you will most-likely never have an endless budget nor will you be handed the magic wand of policy change. But as a leader you can learn how to ensure that the school that you govern has the best possible outcomes. There are other key advantages of pursuing an online EdD program including:
- Flexibility: Online doctorate in education programs are great for working professionals. Students can access course materials and lectures at their convenience.
- Customized Learning Pace: Online doctoral programs may allow students to study at their own pace. This allows them to accelerate or slow down their progress based on their needs.
- Application of Learning in Real-Time: Since most students enrolled in education doctoral programs are already working in the field of education, they can apply their learning directly to their current roles.
Online doctoral programs in education offer educators the chance to advance their profession by working as postsecondary teachers, researchers, or in higher education leadership positions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the job outlook for most education professions is favorable. The average growth rate for school principals through 2031 is 5%. The demand for postsecondary education administrators is even higher, coming in at 7%.
Online doctorate degrees in education teach you how to create community partnerships and build awareness surrounding the specific needs of your region- be it rural, suburban or urban. You will learn how to research and integrate the best technologies for the 21st century. You will likely also study intersections between neuroscience, psychology, neurology, and education. Are you ready to take charge and implement positive effective change in the classroom? As a natural leader, we highly recommend you examine carefully our top online Ed D programs.
1.) Indiana University – Bloomington, Indiana
EdD in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education
EdD in Instructional Systems Technology
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,033/year in-state and $31,932/year out-of-state
Indiana University is a public flagship university located in Bloomington has a combined student body of 110,000 students with the Indianapolis campus. There are also a number of reputable academic programs in areas like:
- business
- accounting
- management
- marketing
- nonprofit management
- social psychology
- elementary education
The student body is diverse representing a number of ethnic minority groups and over 100 nations. The creative arts are another reason to admire programming at Indiana University with the best music college in the nation. We love this program for its academic rigor, prestige and overall high quality of education.
Indiana University offers two online doctorates in education degree programs including the:
- EdD in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education Online
- EdD in Instructional Systems Technology Online
The Instructional Systems Technology program joins research and applied stills. You will learn to apply your research to test products that improve learning environments. Those who wish to enter must have a master’s degree from an accredited institution. Some of the requirements for this doctoral degree include:
- Adult Learning through the Lifespan
- Learning and Cognition in Education
- Strategies for Educational Inquiry
Students may elect up to 24 credits of this 60-credit hour Ed.D.
The second program in Literacy, Culture and Language is a good fit for individuals who are looking to become leaders in the field of literacy education. It’s also a great choice for those who are seeking the most up-to-date relevant information for the 21st century. Course offerings include:
- Issues in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education
- Methodological Approaches to Educational Inquiry
- Theoretical Issues in the Study of Language and Literacies
This is a 60-credit hour program. There is no GRE required for prospective students with a master’s degree from an accredited institution in the US.
- Academic Prestige: N90
- Flexibility: 2 degrees
2.) University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Nebraska
Doctor of Education in Educational Studies-Educational Leadership/Higher Education
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,138/year in-state and $17,928/year out-of-state
The University of Nebraska is a public land grant research flagship university. It is the oldest and largest university in the UN system. Currently, there are over 25,200 students enrolled where 53% of the student body is male and 47% of the student body female. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1 and the majority of classroom sizes accommodate between 20-49 students. The Higher Learning Commission accredits the University of Nebraska to offer comprehensive education. Lincoln is ranked as the one of America’s healthiest small cities.
University of Nebraska Lincoln offers an online EdD in Educational Studies with specializations in either Innovative Learning Technologies or Teaching, Curriculum and Learning. The program is designed for working educators with a master’s degree. Students can complete their degree in as few as three years.
Students move through the program as a cohort with dedicated graduate faculty. Required coursework is available online which makes this a great choice for students unable to travel. This education degree is rigorous and includes courses like:
- Special Topics in Qualitative/Quantitative Research Methods
- Seminar in Writing in the Curriculum
- Seminar in Education
All programs require 90-96 credit hours for completion.
- Academic Prestige: N124
- Flexibility: Two specializations
3.) University of West Georgia – University of West Georgia
Doctor of Education with a Major in School Improvement
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $4,338/year in-state and $16,830/year out-of-state
University of West Georgia is a public 4-year institution located in Carrollton, Georgia- West of Atlanta. There are 13,308 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 21:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges accredits UWG to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees as well as professional certifications. When it comes to student services, UWG offers academic and career counseling, employment for their students as well as placement for graduates. Online degrees are available at every level- there are 23 programs for undergraduates and graduate students alike. There’s even an online Doctorate in Philosophy in Education.
The University of West Georgia offers a Doctor of Education with a Major in School Improvement. We selected this program for its high-quality academics as well as for the number of areas of concentration. This is a 60 credit hours education degree that will take as little as 3 years to complete. The program is 100% online.
There available many different areas of concentration including:
- Early Childhood Education
- Special Education
- Media Specialist
- Reading
- School Counseling
- Educational Leadership
Each area of concentration comes with it unique programming.
- Academic Prestige: N321
- Flexibility: Several Specializations
4.) University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
Online Doctorate in Education Technology
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,770/year in-state and $27,335/year out-of-state
The University of Florida is a public land sea and space flagship research university located in Gainesville, Florida. The Florida Gators are an academic and athletic powerhouse. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges regionally accredits UF to offer comprehensive to its students. Currently, there are over 52,000 students enrolled representing all 50 states and well over 120 countries in both the on-campus and online programs. In many ways, the University of Florida is a public ivy university as it ranks the same as schools like Pepperdine and Penn State. In terms of research, the UF is also a heavy weight and is currently looking at ways to grown food on Mars. There are also over 100 programs available online including the online EdD in Educational Technology.
University of Florida offers a Doctorate in Education in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Educational Technology. This is for individuals who want to pursue a career in research. We selected this program for its high-quality academic prestige and the number of related degree offerings. The program is cohort-based. Students complete two years of required online coursework followed by qualifying exams before beginning their dissertation.
The EdD in Educational Technology takes a minimum of three years for completion. This 60-credit hour EdD includes research courses along with other exciting offerings like:
- Foundations of Educational Technology
- Issues and Trends in Educational Technology Research
- Games and Simulations for Teaching and Learning
While the majority of the doctoral program is online, students do come to campus three times throughout the course of the program. The program is open to students with a master’s degree in almost any area, provided they can support how a degree in educational technology connects to their professional goals.
- Academic Prestige: N42
- Flexibility: No GRE scores required
5.) Boise State University – Boise, Idaho
Doctor of Education in Educational Technology Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,236/year in-state and $24,573/year out-of-state
Boise State University (Boise State) is a public university located in Boise, Idaho. There are 23,854 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 20:1. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accredits BSU to award associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as postbaccalaureate certifications, and post-master’s certificates. There are 6 colleges and schools offering a vast range of degrees in fields like engineering and business. Additionally, Boise State has a division of extended studies including after work, evening and weekend courses as well as professional development. They are also well known for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and their Military Programs. We really like the thorough ways Boise State addresses the needs of non-traditional learners. When it comes to online courses, Boise State offers nine degrees and professional certifications.
Boise State University offers a Doctor of Education in Educational Technology. We selected this program for the flexible online format, the project-based style of learning, and for the quality of the academics. This 66-credit hour program is relevant for the individual who wants to see better integration of educational technologies. Some of the course offerings include:
- Research in Educational Technology
- Global and Cultural Perspectives in Educational Technology
- Research in Educational Technology
If you enjoy project-based learning, this EdD may be a great fit for you.
- Academic Prestige: N231
- Flexibility: Number of concentrations
6.) Sam Houston State University – Huntsville, Texas
Developmental Education Administration, EdD
Instructional Systems Design and Technology, EdD
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,765/year in-state and $13,109/year out-of-state
Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public 4-year institution located in Huntsville, Texas. There are 20,477 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 20:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accredits SHSU to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as postbaccalaureate certificates. SHSU offers a wide range of programs from agriculture to visual arts. The online programs are also vast. In fact, there are 30 affordable online degrees and certifications available in fields like business and education. Their most popular online education program is in curriculum and instruction.
Sam Houston State University offers 2 doctoral degree programs:
- EdD in Developmental Education Administration
- EdD in Instructional Systems Design and Technology
We selected SHSU for their number of relevant degrees offered and the high-quality academic programming. The EdD in Developmental Education Administration is fully online and interdisciplinary. The ISDT doctoral degree is for professionals who strive to become learning technology leaders and scholars who create instructional/learning materials for a variety of educational environments. prepares students for technology integration. This education program is also fully online. Both doctoral programs are taught by talented and credentialed professors.
- Academic Prestige: N231
- Flexibility: Two online doctorates in education
7.) University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, Arkansas
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,875/year in-state and $21,420/year out-of-state
The University of Arkansas (U of A) is a public land and space grant university that was founded in 1871. It is located in Fayetteville and enrolls 27,194 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 19:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredits U of A to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. There are hundreds of academic programs available appropriate for both traditional and non-traditional learners in a vast range of disciplines including the sciences, arts, and humanities. With over 30 online degrees and certifications, U of A has online programs for all types of interests. The largest online courses are in the fields of business, education, engineering, and health.
The University of Arkansas offers a Doctorate in Education in Educational Leadership. We selected this education degree program for its high quality of academic programming. All of the course material is presented online, though this program does require three intensive weekend seminars. The EdD in Educational Leadership requires 42 credit hours for completion. Most students can complete their education degree in about three years. It is a great option for aspiring school administrators or those who want to become a school principal or superintendent. This program is part of the department of curriculum and instruction. If you are looking for a versatile EdD, this is one of the best doctoral programs out there.
- Academic Prestige: N133
- Flexibility: online
8.) University of South Carolina – Columbia, South Carolina
Doctor of Education- Learning Design and Technologies
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $13,374/year in-state and $29,760/year out-of-state
The University of South Carolina Columbia (USC) is a public sea-grant research university located in Columbia, South Carolina. It is the flagship university of the state. There are 34,099 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 18:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accredits USC to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. The Carnegie Foundation awarded USC with both a research and community engagement designation- one of 32 public universities in the nation receiving this recognition. Their online presence is also robust- offering over 40 degrees and professional certifications in fields like library science, mathematics, and education among others.
University of South Carolina offers a EdD in Educational Practice and Innovation with a concentration in Learning Design and Technologies. We selected this program for the high quality of academic offerings, accelerated format, and for the flexible online degree offering. This 60-credit hour education degree will take just 36 months to complete and prepares you for leadership and the challenges of technology-based learning. Course offerings include:
- Instructional Design and Assessment
- Design and Evaluation of Information Access and Delivery
- Synthesis of Educational Technology Research
This is a great option for any individual looking to enter into a leadership role in educational technology.
- Academic Prestige: N103
- Flexibility: accelerated
9.) Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, Maryland
Doctor of Education
Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $60,480/year
Johns Hopkins University is a private research university located in Baltimore, Maryland. There are 23,917 students enrolled with Johns Hopkins. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredits JHU to award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctor’s degrees as well as professional certifications. JHU has a world-renowned medical school. According to U.S. News JHU ranks as the 11th best school in the nation, 19th best value school, and 6th best education school in the nation. Over the years, JHU has developed a large and reputable online university including nearly 60 fully online degrees and professional certifications. Business, computer science, engineering, and education are among the top picks by enrollment. JHU even offers a fully online doctorate of philosophy in education.
Johns Hopkins University offers a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.). We selected this online Doctor of Education for the high quality academic prestige and number of areas of focus. Students from all over the world look seek out this program. JHU is a member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate. The three areas of specialization are in: Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education, Mind, Brain & Teaching, and Urban Leadership. The Mind, Brain, and Teaching specialization explores neurosciences, cognitive sciences, and psychology. The Urban Leadership program examines the problems facing 21st century urban education. Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education focuses on building new venture opportunities such as community partnerships. This is a phenomenal opportunity. Apply early and do a lot of research about the scholars as this is a competitive course.
- Academic Prestige: N11
- Flexibility: 3 areas of concentration; online
10.) Kennesaw State University – Kennesaw, Georgia
Doctor of Education with a major in Instructional Technology
Doctor of Education with a major in Teacher Leadership
Secondary and Middle Grades Education, EdD
Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,328/year in-state and $19,188/year out-of-state
Kennesaw State University (KSU) is a public university located in Kennesaw and is part of the University System of Georgia. KSU currently enrolls more than 33,000 students and is fully accredited by the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges. Amongst other things, KSU is known for its vast options online offering 18 degrees 6 bachelors, 11 masters and one doctoral. The bachelor’s degree programs include a bachelor’s in business administration management and a bachelor’s in business administration marketing. The graduate level programming includes an MBA and a master’s degree in educational leadership. Historically, Kennesaw is known as the staging ground for the Great Locomotive Chase and was cited by Family Circle magazine as one of the nation’s 10 best towns for families.
Kennesaw State offers three doctorate in education programs including:
- Doctor of Education with a major in Instructional Technology
- Doctor of Education with a major in Teacher Leadership
- Secondary and Middle Grades Education, EdD
We selected these programs for the quality academic programming and accelerated format.
The instructional technology EdD is for teachers who currently (or plan to) hold technology leadership roles. The teacher leadership program is designed to develop classroom leaders. Students complete a three-hour residency project implementing a meaningful leadership-oriented project within their school or district. Finally, the secondary and middle grades education EdD is a unique program with different content areas to meet the needs of each student. Content areas include:
- mathematics
- biology
- English
For an affordable and fast doctorate in education program, try the program at Kennesaw State.
- Academic Prestige: N231
- Flexibility: online; accelerated
11.) National University – San Deigo, California
EdD Early Childhood Education Specialization
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $15,912/year
National University is the largest private nonprofit university in San Diego. They offer over 190 career-relevant degree programs. Courses follow a four-week or eight-week structure, meeting the needs of working professionals. NU also offers meaningful support services to students to help them succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
National University features an online education doctorate in early childhood education. The doctoral degree program supports leadership development focused on the field of early childhood education. The curriculum includes 16 courses taught by 100% doctoral faculty. NU offers weekly course starts and students have the ability to schedule courses around their personal and professional obligations. Most students can complete their early childhood education doctorate in just 33 months.
- Flexibility: weekly course starts
12.) Ball State University – Muncie, Indiana
EdD in Elementary Education
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,636/year in-state and $26,334/year out-of-state
Ball State University was founded in 1918 and today, has a current enrollment of over 21,000 students. Admission is selective, but those lucky enough to get in enjoy low tuition rates and generous scholarships. In fact, four out of five new freshman receive scholarships/grants.
The EdD in elementary education at Ball State University is a flexible, fully online program with three specialization areas including:
- Elementary Education
- Early Childhood Education
- Literacy/Reading Education
Courses are rigorous and relevant. Students will increase their knowledge in their area of interest through program activities like in-service training and clinical or laboratory work. Faculty are experienced and have earned recognition for their work on the national and international levels.
- Flexibility: three specialization areas to choose from
13.) Baylor University – Waco, Texas
EdD in Learning and Organizational Change
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $38,772/year
Baylor University is one of the largest Christian universities in the world. The school welcomes students from all 50 states and over 90 different countries. Over 20,000 students are currently at Baylor.
Baylor University offers an online EdD in learning and organizational change through the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. This doctorate degree program is designed for experienced educators and others in an L&D role who want to lead and manage positive change in a variety of educational settings. Core courses take a practitioner-oriented approach and cover areas like:
- Leadership and Organizational Change
- Teaching for Understanding
- Educational Evaluation
This 54 credit-hour education degree can be completed in just 36 months.
- Flexibility: no on-campus residency requirements
14.) University of Illinois – Champaign, Illinois
EdD in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $14,891/year in-state and $29,176/year out-of-state
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is a large public university with over 34,500 undergraduate students 20,500 graduate students. All 50 states and 126 countries are represented on campus. UIUC has 19,265 students of color on campus, which is more than any other top-ranked Midwest university according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
The College of Education at the University of Illinois offers an EdD in education policy, organization and leadership. The program includes five specialization areas:
- Diversity and Equity in Education
- Global Studies in Education
- Human Resource Development
- International Education Administration and Leadership
- Learning Design and Leadership
All specialization areas require 64 credit hours of coursework. Students must complete two written qualifying exams as well as preliminary and final oral examinations. A doctoral dissertation is required. Applicants should have a master’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of a 3.0 to be considered for acceptance.
- Flexibility: multiple specialization areas
15.) Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia
Online Doctor of Education Programs
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,893/year
Liberty University was founded in 1971 and currently offers over 700 unique programs of study. They have over 130,000 students including 27,000 military students and over 700 international students. Liberty is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award degrees at all levels.
Liberty offers a wide variety of EdD programs for educators. Their focused areas include:
- Administration and Supervision
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Educational Leadership
- Higher Education Administration
Most of these areas include additional specializations allowing students to choose a program that closely aligns with their career goals. One of the specializations within the higher education administration EdD is organizational leadership. This unique focus area provides training in university administration and advanced business topics. Another unique program offering is the specialization in educational psychology within the curriculum and instruction program. This concentration is for students who want to improve teaching and learning processes in their school using their knowledge of how people learn and retain information.
All EdD programs require 54 credit hours of coursework. Most students can complete their degree in about two and a half years. Courses are offered in eight-week sessions and there are no on-campus residency requirements.
- Flexibility: Multiple EdD program offerings
Related Articles:
The 10 Best Online Doctorate Degrees in Educational Leadership
The 10 Best Online Masters in Education Policy
The 10 Best Online Master’s in Education Technology Degree Programs
The 10 Best Online Educational Leadership Masters Degree Programs
