doctorate in education for free

Education (Online), EdD

School of education.

To address the dramatically changing landscape of education in the 21st century, which includes new research on the science of learning, advances in technology, and the emergence of a for-profit education sector, the Johns Hopkins School of Education offers an innovative online Doctor of Education degree program. This EdD program is designed to prepare an exceptional corps of educational practitioner-scholars, both nationally and internationally, who can set a high standard for transformational leadership in education, apply evidence-based practices to improve educational outcomes, and meet the vast challenges associated with improving learning outcomes in both public and private educational environments.

For more information about the EdD program, please visit  https://education.jhu.edu/academics/edd/ . If you have any questions about the EdD program, please contact  [email protected] .

Admission Requirements

At minimum, applicants to the EdD program should hold a master’s degree from an accredited college or university. Previous degrees must document high academic achievement (a minimum GPA of 3.0) in an area of study closely associated with the objectives of the program. If the earned degree or credit is from an educational institution abroad, the candidate’s academic record must be evaluated by a credential evaluation agency before consideration for admission. Applicants must submit the online admission application form, application fee, official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, a curriculum vitae (résumé), online interview, and two letters of recommendation signed by each recommender. These letters should include the following:

• A professor with whom the applicant worked in their master's program who can speak to the applicant's competency to conduct rigorous scholarly work, and
• A colleague/supervisor from the applicant’s professional context/industry who can attest to the applicant's qualifications to pursue a doctorate, the applicant's impact on the recommender’s  professional practice, and knowledge of and support for the applicant's proposed area of research/Problem of Practice.

Additionally, applicants will submit a personal statement including responses to the following:

• Describe a significant Problem of Practice relevant to your current context/industry of professional practice.
• Indicate the importance of this problem within the applicant’s industry and/or their specific context of professional practice.
• Discuss the potential underlying causes for or contributing factors related to this Problem of Practice.
• Discuss the ways in which this problem aligns with at least one or two areas of interest.

All applicants who meet the entrance requirements will be asked to submit video and written responses to question prompts.

International students must fulfill the general requirements for admission and complete additional requirements—see  https://education.jhu.edu/admission-financial-aid/admissions/international-applicants/ .

Note: This program is not eligible for student visa sponsorship .

Students who enter the program will be required to successfully complete a series of pre-orientation modules prior to enrollment in the program. All students are expected to show competence in the content areas of these modules.

Please note that for the online EdD program, an offer of admission is for the specific cohort to which an application is submitted. Students may accept or decline the admission offer only; deferring to a future cohort is not an option.

Program Requirements

Program structure and requirements.

Program requirements include a minimum of 90 graduate credits. Students must enter the program with a master’s degree with a minimum of 36 graduate-level credits, which will be transferred into the EdD program. If a student does not have the required 36 master’s credits, the student will be admitted on a conditional basis and must complete the additional graduate-level credits at an accredited college or university. Students with post-master’s graduate credit in related education content completed prior to admission to the EdD program may petition to transfer in an additional six credits of equivalent coursework with appropriate documentation and with the approval of the EdD program director. Thus, students must complete between 48 and 54 credits at the doctoral level at JHU. The program includes the following required coursework components (subject to change):

• Foundations of Education (15 credit hours)
• Applied Research & Evaluation (12 credit hours)
• Areas of Interest / Electives (15 elective credit hours)
• Doctoral Dossier Research (12 credit hours)*

In addition to successfully completing all the coursework requirements, candidates must also satisfy written assessments and an oral comprehensive examination that document attainment of competencies. They must also complete either an Applied Dissertation or a Dossier Style Dissertation research project, depending upon the year the candidate was admitted to the program as per the following table:

Students who extend their program of study may be required to enroll in additional independent study credits.

With permission, students admitted between Fall 2013 and Fall 2020 may opt into the Dossier Style Dissertation if they choose not to do an intervention.

Problems of Practice and Doctoral Dossier

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP)—an area of concern they have observed within their professional context—that becomes the focus of the student's Doctoral Dossier, which consists of three main projects described below.

As part of our commitment to social justice, the EdD program does not privilege one form of communication over another. Thus, all components of the Doctoral Dossier can be communicated in a modality of the student’s choosing: video, oral, scholarly writing, or public-facing writing. The Doctoral Dossier is embedded within the EdD program coursework, providing students the unique opportunity to examine an issue important to their field.

To begin their Doctoral Dossier process, students will spend their first year working on a Scholarship of Integration project (Project 1) that focuses on exploration and identification of underlying causes of and factors associated with their chosen POP. Using systems thinking, which includes perspective-taking, and the research literature, students will document their exploration in an introductory narrative that provides the rationale and supporting evidence for their decision to further pursue their research topic throughout their doctoral journey.

During the second year, following completion of the Scholarship of Integration project, students will choose one of the following two options for Project 2:

1. Scholarship of Application: Demonstrate the application of the research to practice. The purpose of this project is to a) consider how the research perpetuates and/or disrupts oppression, b) critique relevant systems, structures, and institutions, and c) determine avenues to effectively disseminate evidence to a wider audience and stakeholder group.

Example projects include: historical analysis of a topic, curriculum creation, community organization, autoethnography, instructional pedagogy, and others.   

2. Scholarship of Teaching: Development and improvement of pedagogical practices. Students examine teaching processes and assessments improve practice.

Example projects include : autoethnography of one’s teaching, innovative teaching materials, curricula, development of new courses, or development of a new pedagogical framework.   

During the third year, following completion of Project 2, students will choose one of the following:

• The scholarship option NOT chosen for Project 2, or
• Scholarship of Discovery: Search for new knowledge. Students conduct evidence-based research that leads to knowledge creation.    

Example projects include: written, oral, or other modalities of research, scholarly publications, empirical study, working paper, or book chapters.                

During the fourth year, students will complete Project 3, write an Executive Summary that ties their three projects together, and write a final reflection of their doctoral journey. The Doctoral Dossier will be presented and assessed during the fourth year.

Students are expected to complete four years of coursework and independent research concurrently. This program is cohort-based, thus if students require a leave of absence for any reason, they will return in the appropriate course sequence with the next cohort the following year.

Problems of Practice and Dossier Style Dissertation (for students admitted Fall 2021 and Fall 2022*)

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP), which is an area of concern that they have observed within their professional context. This POP becomes the focus of the student's Dossier Style Dissertation. The Dossier Style Dissertation is embedded within the EdD program coursework, which provides students with a unique opportunity to examine an issue important to the organization in which they are employed.

During the first year in the program, students synthesize research literature to understand factors relevant to the POP from a broader systems perspective. During the second year of the program, students conduct an empirical project to investigate their POP within their professional context. Students are expected to collect and analyze data to further understand and refine their identified problem. Based on the evidence in the literature review and empirical project, students will engage in a final project that may further explore an aspect of their POP or articulate a potential solution.

Students will demonstrate mastery of first- and second-year competencies through written and oral comprehensive assessments, which will serve as indicators of readiness for conducting their applied research. Students will then evaluate the effectiveness of this solution as their Applied Project (Year 3). Characteristics of the Dossier Style Dissertation that make it unique to this program include:

• Written assignments within courses that focus on the student's POP.
• Coursework that leads students to consider applications that hold the potential for significant change or impact within their organization and/or have implications for policy.
• Dossier Style Dissertation components that are embedded within coursework and distributed across the three years of the program.

Although somewhat different from a traditional dissertation in its completion and focus, students are nevertheless expected to demonstrate mastery of the relevant literature, to obtain extant and/or collect additional data, and to interpret the results in light of previous studies. The Dossier Style Dissertation will be presented at a final oral defense before a Dossier Style Dissertation Panel.

Typically, we expect that students would complete three years of coursework and independent research concurrently. It is possible that some students may need more than three years to complete their research, in which case they will be required to enroll in at least one credit hour per semester after completion of the required 90 credit hours.

*Students admitted Fall 2021 can choose to complete either the Dossier Style Dissertation or the Applied Dissertation described below. Fall 2022 students may only complete the Dossier Style Dissertation.

Problems of Practice and Applied Dissertation (for students admitted Fall 2013-2021*)

Students examine a Problem of Practice (POP), which is an area of concern that they have observed within their professional context. This POP becomes the focus of the student's Applied Dissertation research. The Applied Dissertation is embedded within the EdD program coursework, which provides students with a unique opportunity to examine an issue important to the organization in which they are employed.

During the first year in the program, students examine their articulated POP to identify underlying causes and associated factors. During the second year of the program, students develop a potential solution, such as an intervention or policy change, and a plan to study the implementation of this intervention as well as proximal outcomes. Students will demonstrate mastery of first- and second-year competencies through written and oral comprehensive assessments, which will serve as indicators of readiness for conducting their applied research. Students will then evaluate the effectiveness of this solution as their Applied Dissertation (Year 3). Characteristics of the Applied Dissertation that make it unique to this program include:

• Coursework that leads students to consider solutions that hold the potential for significant change or impact within their organization and/or have implications for policy.
• Dissertation components that are embedded within coursework and distributed across the three years of the program.

Although somewhat different from a traditional dissertation in its completion and focus, students are nevertheless expected to demonstrate mastery of the relevant literature, to obtain extant and/or collect additional data, and to interpret the results in light of previous studies. The dissertation will be presented at a final oral defense before the student’s Dissertation Advisory Committee.

Typically, students will complete three years of coursework and independent research concurrently. It is possible that some students may need more than three years to complete their research, in which case they will be required to enroll in at least one credit hour per semester after completion of the required 90 credit hours.

*Students admitted Fall 2013-2020 must complete the Applied Dissertation. Students admitted Fall 2021 can choose to complete either the Dossier Style Dissertation or the Applied Dissertation. Fall 2022 students may only complete the Dossier Style Dissertation.

Learning Outcomes

Program goals.

Upon successful completion of the EdD, we expect that graduates will:

• Participate as a self-reflexive, social justice-oriented learner within diverse educational or learning communities.
• Analyze and critique educational practice and research from a social justice and systems perspective.
• Apply relevant methodologies to address critical challenges in education.
• Demonstrate a curiosity for, and a systematic approach to, at least one major topic of study within education resulting in an emerging expertise.
• Integrate research and practice-based knowledge to develop research-informed decisions and opinions about educational experiences, processes, policies, and institutions.
• Communicate effectively to diverse audiences about educational research, experiences, processes, policies, and institutions.

Top Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education

As the highest degree level available, a Ph.D. in education denotes expertise in the field. Some colleges and universities extend free Ph.D. programs to learners, including those studying education.

Most postsecondary institutions, such as colleges, universities, and community colleges, prefer to hire professors with a Ph.D. in their field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that postsecondary education teachers earn a median salary of $79,540. From 2019-2029, the BLS projects a 9% job growth rate for education professors.

Top 3 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs in Education

Recommended doctorates in education, what is a ph.d. in education.

A Ph.D. in education typically leads to a career in academia or research. The degree focuses on theoretical approaches to education, and students spend much of their time researching a specific niche in education.

During a fully funded Ph.D. program, students can submit their research to academic journals. Many Ph.D. in education students are published multiple times while pursuing the degree. Learners may also attend conferences and workshops to learn more.

Why Get a Degree in Education?

Students pursue a Ph.D. in education for various reasons, including career advancement and personal interest. Some of the benefits of earning a Ph.D. in education include:

• Becoming a Professor: While not always required, most accredited institutions prefer to hire educators with a Ph.D. in their field. Education professors typically complete a Ph.D. in education.
• Expand Your Network: Ph.D. in education students attend conferences, work closely with existing professors, and publish their research in journals. Through these experiences learners form connections with individuals, schools, and organizations.
• Getting Published: Ph.D. programs commonly end with students publishing the results of their research. Doing so cements the student’s position as an expert in the field.
• Increasing Potential Salary: Higher levels of education often lead to higher-paying positions. Those with a Ph.D. in education could earn more than those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Personal Fulfillment: Those that love education and the theories of educating often find a Ph.D. challenging, enjoyable, and fulfilling.

Accreditation for a Ph.D. in Education

Prospective Ph.D. in education students looking for the best fully funded Ph.D. programs should always consider accreditation. When a school or program receives accreditation, it means that an accrediting organization reviewed and approved of the academic quality of the school or program. These accrediting organizations gain approval from the United State Department of Education, the Council of Higher Education Accreditation , or both.

Colleges and universities receive either national or regional accreditation. While both demonstrate quality, the best schools receive regional accreditation. Employers also prefer applicants to hold a Ph.D. from a regionally accredited institution, and studying at a non-regionally accredited school could impact your chances of securing financial aid.

Some college programs also receive programmatic accreditation. While not as important as regional accreditation, programmatic accreditation shows a minimum level of quality. Those looking at free Ph.D. programs online in education should search for Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accreditation.

Courses for a Ph.D. in Education

Because Ph.D. in education programs require a minimum level of teaching experience, the coursework in a Ph.D. focuses less on teaching and more on the theories of education. During the 4-5 year Ph.D. program, learners take multiple courses related to analytics and research. Programs also discuss advanced teaching methods for postsecondary positions.

Some colleges and universities allow students to select a specialization, typically in a specific field like mathematics or economics. While not all Ph.D. programs require the same curriculum, prospective students can anticipate taking courses similar to these:

In this list we have compiled the Top 5 fully funded PhD programs found across the nation in the field. Fully funded means students have the chance to get a variety of aid options from grants, scholarships, residencies and more to fund their education while pursuing their PhD in Education.

Instructional Theory

Building off students’ course design skills, instructional theory introduces concepts behind creating courses, modules, and class designs. Learners discover ways to teach course design and instruction to undergraduate students, using principles of learning theories. Students also explore recent developments in the field, including innovations from cognitive science. Instructional theory teaches students some of the skills necessary to become a college-level education instructor.

Quantitative Research

Quantitative research, sometimes known as quantitative research methods, introduces the process of conducting primary research in an academic and practical setting. Quantitative research covers the standards set by academic journals, ensuring that students’ research meets these standards. Students also learn to use statistics and analyses to find fact-based evidence to support theories. This course helps learners get published and gain recognition prior to graduation.

Differentiated Instruction

Each student learns differently, and educators must adjust course requirements and structure to suit student needs. Differentiated instruction teaches future professors to design different instructions based on varying student characteristics and abilities. Learners discover some of the different characteristics found in students of different ages and backgrounds. This course also teaches different strategies to address the academic needs of students. As current and future educators, students benefit from learning different instructional techniques.

Colloquium in Leadership

Students pursuing a Ph.D. in education often complete multiple colloquiums, including a colloquium in leadership. This course lets students learn from current experts in the field through speeches and presentations. Learners can connect with presenters, allowing them to ask questions and network. Many Ph.D. in education programs count the colloquium as a for-credit course, and the colloquium could cover various fields.

Dissertation

The main focus of the student’s Ph.D. program, the dissertation, likely takes up the most time of any course. Dissertations work like final papers, covering the independent research conducted by students during their Ph.D. After finishing their multi-chapter dissertation, students must defend their dissertation in front of a panel of education experts. Students select the content of their dissertation and often use the material to publish papers in academic journals.

How Much Do Education Majors Make?

The amount of money an education major makes depends on a number of factors, including level of education completed, where they completed their education, the position they earn, and where they live. Because a Ph.D. generally leads to careers in academic research, most Ph.D. in education learners become postsecondary teachers.

The BLS reports that postsecondary teachers earn $79,540 per year, though education teachers earn a median salary of just $65,510, among the lowest of all fields. Of course, real wages vary significantly, with the top 10% of all postsecondary educators earning more than $174,960 each year.

Some Ph.D. in education graduates find careers elsewhere, such as education administration. Careers as a principal, superintendent, or college administration could all become landing spots, and each career pays higher wages than teaching at a postsecondary institution.

Career and Salary Outlook for Education Majors

From educators to administration, Ph.D. in education graduates find positions across the country in both public and private organizations. Many Ph.D. in education students become postsecondary educators, and the BLS projects an 4% job growth rate for postsecondary educators and administrators from 2019-2029.

• Postsecondary Teacher : Postsecondary teachers, including college and community college professors, teach students beyond the high school level. Postsecondary teachers educate students, create instructional plans, and advise students on how to achieve their goals. These positions require at least a master’s degree, though most employers prefer a Ph.D.
• Elementary, Middle, and High School Principal : Elementary, middle, and high school principals oversee their school’s day-to-day operations. Duties include managing school staff, counseling students, and creating a set of academic standards. These professionals require at least a master’s degree and some teaching experience.
• Postsecondary Education Administrator : A postsecondary education administrator performs an array of duties for colleges and universities. Potential departments include admissions, registrar’s office, student affairs, or academics. Most positions deal with scheduling, analyzing data, and maintaining student records.
• High School Teacher : High school teachers perform similar tasks as postsecondary educators, only at the high school level. Daily duties include planning lessons, teaching students, and grading assignments. High school teachers prepare students for standardized exams, careers, and college, and often must change lessons to meet the needs of the classroom.

Source: BLS

Scholarships for a Ph.D. in Education

If would-be students cannot find a fully funded Ph.D. program, then scholarships are a great way to reduce educational cost. Some scholarships only accept those pursuing a doctoral degree or a degree in education. Some of the top scholarships for Ph.D. in education students include:

Mariam K. Chamberlain Award Who Can Apply : Named to honor the founder of the National Council for Research on Women, the Dr. Mariam K. Chamberlain Award helps first-generation doctoral students cover the costs of their education. Applicants must be working on a dissertation with a senior dissertation advisor and may study any field, including education. Amount : $8,500

The Gates Millennium Scholars Program Who Can Apply : Created to help minority students receive higher education, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program covers the entire cost of a student’s education. Applicants must be African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American. While the program does cover a graduate degree in education, applicants must be previous Gates Millennium Scholars. Amount : Full Tuition

Southern Regional Education Board Doctoral Award Who Can Apply : Created for Ph.D. students who plan on becoming university professors, the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Doctoral Award provides a $20,000 annual stipend to current Ph.D. students. SREB offers both a one-year award and a 3-5 year award. Applicants must attend a member college or a college in a member state. Amount : $20,000

Harry Passow Classroom Teacher Scholarship Who Can Apply : The A. Harry Passow Classroom Teacher Scholarship helps offset the costs of continuing education for one K-12 teacher. Applicants must currently teach gifted students in one of many formats. Applicants must provide evidence of acceptance into a graduate-level program at an accredited college or university. Amount : $2,000

Esther Katz Rosen Fund Grants Who Can Apply : The Esther Katz Rosen Fund helps support the advancement of knowledge about gifted children, providing funding for those related to research in the field. Applicants for this grant must study toward a doctoral degree at an accredited university. The funding can help cover Ph.D. research costs. Amount : $1,000-$50,000

Best Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs in Education

1. the university of michigan school of education.

The University of Michigan School of Education encourages all PhD students to think rigorously and demonstrate an ability to make a difference in education. The fully funded PhD program produces leaders, policymakers, and researchers dedicated to improving the state of education country and worldwide. The School of Education offers a PhD in Educational Studies in a number of areas of focus: Educational Policy, Leadership and Innovation , Literacy, Language, and Culture , or Mathematics Education to name a few. There are also three additional PhD degrees in English and Education , Education and Psychology or Higher Education .

Funding packages with the Michigan School of Education are flexible and plenty. Doctoral students receive a minimum of four years of financial support which covers items like tuition, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance. This insurance will even cover health and dental benefits for students’ family members, an invaluable benefit for many students when considering the rising costs of healthcare. All students who participate in the fully funded PhD program are assigned a 20-hour-per-week assignment. This might include filling roles as a research or staff assistant, or as an instructor.

2. Vanderbilt Peabody College

Vanderbilt University has long been a mecca for students striving to become the ‘best of the best’ in their fields, and located in Nashville, Tennessee, a thriving city and center for industries like healthcare and higher education, it’s easy to see why so many students excel through the university’s world-class programs. The Vanderbilt Peabody College offers a couple of fully funded PhD programs in Education through the Leadership, Policy and Organizations department. Two concentrations can be selected: K-12 Educational Leadership and Policy (ELP) , and  Higher Education Leadership and Policy (HELP) .

The PhD program is for students and educators who wish to build an academic career focused on the study of education and policy, and with the university’s unique mentor-apprentice model, students gain knowledge through researched based assistantships alongside esteemed faculty. All Peabody College PhD students receive full tuition funding . The funding is achieved through merit awards or University Tuition Scholarships. Typically, students will also benefit from health insurance coverage and may participate in University Fellowships, Graduate Teaching Assistantships, Graduate Research Assistantships, Traineeships, and Teacher Training Awards.

3. The Steinhardt School at New York University

Students at Steinhardt School at New York University can earn a free Ph.D. in education through the use of scholarships and tuition programs at the school. Those in the Ed. in leadership and innovation take 24 weeks to complete the program. They focus on coursework in applied research methods, change and innovation, and management and data ethics. Admission to the program requires that students answer why they want to attend Steinhardt, how their work experiences prepare them for a cohort learning environment, and what experience, if any, they have with online learning. Prospective students also need to include a resume, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts from previously attended postsecondary institutions.

Embrace the convenience of online learning and shape your own path to success.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

30 Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs [2024 Guide]

When your life is committed to teaching students, earning an online doctorate in education may be the next natural step in your career development.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Education Programs

1. andrews university.

Andrews University is a private university in Berrien Springs, Michigan, that is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Founded in 1874, Andrews offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs for its more than 3,300 enrolled students. More than 70 graduate and post-graduate majors can be pursued.

• EdD in Curriculum and Instructions
• EdD in Educational Leadership
• EdD in Higher Education Administration
• EdD in Leadership
• PhD in Curriculum and Instructions
• PhD in Educational Leadership
• PhD in Higher Education Administration
• PhD in Leadership

Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Baylor University

Baylor University is a private, Baptist-affiliated research university located in Waco, Texas. Founded in 1845, Baylor is the oldest continuously operating university in the state of Texas. Students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 12 academic units.

Baylor has been ranked in 76th place on the U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” list. Annual enrollment at Baylor is just over 18,000.

• EdD in Learning and Organizational Change

Baylor University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

3. Boise State University

Boise State University is a public research university in Boise, Idaho, that was founded by the Episcopal Church in 1932. The university offers more than 190 fields of study for students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees today. Current annual enrollment at Boise State is over 25,000.

• EdD in Educational Technology

Boise State University  is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

4. Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University Chicago is a private liberal arts university located in River Forest, Illinois. This former teaching college now offers more than 100 degree options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students.

Concordia was founded in 1864. Its current annual enrollment tops 6,000. Concordia is affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS).

• EdD in Leadership – Curriculum and Instruction
• EdD in Leadership – Early Childhood Education
• EdD in Leadership – Educational Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Education Technology
• EdD in Leadership – Gerontology
• EdD in Leadership – Health and Human Performance
• EdD in Leadership – Higher Education
• EdD in Leadership – Organizational Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Reading, Language and Literacy
• EdD in Leadership – Special Education
• EdD in Leadership – Sports Leadership
• EdD in Leadership – Teacher Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Curriculum and Instruction
• PhD in Leadership – Early Childhood Education
• PhD in Leadership – Educational Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Education Technology
• PhD in Leadership – Gerontology
• PhD in Leadership – Health and Human Performance
• PhD in Leadership – Higher Education
• PhD in Leadership – Organizational Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Reading, Language and Literacy
• PhD in Leadership – Special Education
• PhD in Leadership – Sports Leadership
• PhD in Leadership – Teacher Leadership

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Drexel University

Founded in 1891, Drexel University is a private research university based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In addition to 70 undergraduate degree programs, Drexel offers more than 100 options for master’s and doctoral studies. Drexel has an annual enrollment of more than 24,000 students.

The school is known for utilizing a cooperative education program (co-op) that allows students to take advantage of paid, full-time work experience.

• EdD in Educational Leadership and Management

Drexel University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

6. Edgewood College

Edgewood College of Madison, Wisconsin, is a Roman Catholics college that was founded by the Dominican order in 1927. Edgewood College offers more than 60 majors and 40 minors for students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Edgewood enrolls more than 2,500 students annually.

The school is known for its small class sizes, low instructor-to-student ratios, and extensive job counseling for future graduates.

Edgewood College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Grand Canyon University

With an annual enrollment topping 100,000, Grand Canyon University is best known for being one of the largest Christian universities in the world. GCU is based in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs across nine distinct colleges. GCU was founded in 1949.

• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Behavioral Health
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Christian Ministry
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Healthcare Administration
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Higher Education Leadership
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – K-12 Leadership
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Organizational Development
• EdD in Organizational Leadership – Special Education
• EdD in Teaching and Learning – Adult Learning

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. John Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University is a private research university in Baltimore, Maryland, dating back to 1876. Just over 26,000 enroll in the prestigious school annually to pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a wide variety of majors covering the arts and sciences. Johns Hopkins is one of the most cited research institutions in the world.

• Doctor of Education

Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

9. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University is split between two primary campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta. KSU’s annual enrollment passing 35,000 makes it one of the 50 largest universities in the United States. The school offers more than 80 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree options. Kennesaw State was founded in 1963.

• EdD in Instructional Technology
• EdD in Teacher Leadership

Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Liberty University

Founded in 1971, Liberty University offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 17 colleges. Liberty offers 289 of its 550 total programs fully online. An annual enrollment number topping 100,000 solidifies Liberty’s reputation as one of the largest evangelical Christian universities in the world.

• EdD in Community Care and Counseling
• EdD in Curriculum and Instruction – Special Education
• PhD in Education – Organizational Leadership
• PhD in Education – Special Education

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

11. Maryville University

Maryville University is a private university located in Town and Country, Missouri, with a history dating back to 1872. The university currently offers more than 90 degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels to more than 6,400 enrolled students annually. Maryville’s student population includes students from all 50 states.

• Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership

Maryville University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

12. Morehead State University

Morehead State University is a public university in Morehead, Kentucky, that was founded in 1887. MSU enrolls more than 9,600 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are offered across four schools at Morehead. U.S. News & World Report ranks Morehead State in 19th place among public regional universities in the South.

Morehead State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

13. National University

National University is a growing network of nonprofit institutions headquartered in San Diego, California. Established in 1971, NU has over 30,000 students enrolled and over 220,000 alumni from around the world. The university offers a variety of online options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

• EdD in Instructional Design

National University  is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

14. Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University is a private Christian university located in Nampa, Idaho, that was founded in 1913. NNU is one of eight liberal arts colleges in the United States affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Annual enrollment at NNU is just over 2,000.

NNU currently offers more than 70 degree programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies.

NNU  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

15. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is a private university with a main campus in Davie, Florida. Founded in 1964, Nova’s annual student enrollment has grown to over 20,000. Nova is comprised of 18 total colleges, centers, and schools offering more than 150 degree options for bachelors, master’s, and doctoral students.

Nova Southeastern University enjoys the distinction of being classified among both the R2: Doctoral Universities for high research activity and the “community engaged” universities by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

• EdD in Curriculum and Teaching
• EdD in Higher Education Leadership
• EdD in Instructional Technology & Distance Education
• EdD in Organizational Leadership
• EdD in Reading Education
• EdD in Special Education

NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

16. Regent University

Founded in 1977, Regent University is a private Christian university located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Regent’s annual enrollment hovers near 8,630 students. A variety of associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees spanning 70 courses of study are available for Regent students.

Regent’s online graduate education program is ranked 21st in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

• PhD in Education

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

17. Rowan University

Rowan University is a public research university in Glassboro, New Jersey, with an annual enrollment topping 9,400. Founded in 1923, Rowan offers students dozens of robust options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 12 colleges.

Rowan also operates a Division of Global Learning and Partnerships for graduate and remote learning. U.S. News ranks Rowan 187 on its Best Colleges ranking.

• EdD in Educational Leadership – Community College Leadership Initiative
• EdD in Educational Leadership – Higher Education
• EdD in Educational Leadership – Nurse Educator
• EdD in Educational Leadership – P-12

Rowan University  is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education, a unit of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

18. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University is a public university in Huntsville, Texas, with a history as a teaching college that dates back to 1879. SHSU is a member of the Texas State University System. More than 20,000 students are enrolled across Sam Houston’s more than 80 undergraduate, 59 master’s, and 10 doctoral programs.

• EdD in Developmental Education Administration
• EdD in Instructional Systems Design and Technology

Sam Houston State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. St Thomas University

St. Thomas University is a private Catholic university in Miami Gardens, Florida, offering 23 undergraduate majors, 24 graduate majors, and several doctoral programs. Founded in 1961, STU enrolls more than 4,200 students annually. The university’s Miami Gardens campus was once the long-term training camp home of the Miami Dolphins.

Formerly known as Biscayne College, St. Thomas University has enrolled students from more than 70 countries.

• EdD in Leadership and Innovation

St. Thomas University is accredited by Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

20. Texas A&M University Commerce

More than 12,000 students enroll annually at Texas A&M University–Commerce. This public research university in Commerce, Texas, was founded in 1889. It is comprised of more than five academic colleges offering degrees in more than 100 subjects and disciplines.

Degree paths for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral are offered. Texas A&M University–Commerce has been ranked the top school in Texas for teaching education by the Directory of U.S. Colleges Database Online Magazine.

• EdD in Educational Administration

Texas A&M University – Commerce  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

21. Trevecca Nazarene University

Trevecca Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts college located in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1901, TNU is one of eight liberal arts colleges in the United States affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Trevecca is divided into six schools offering associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.

• EdD in Leadership and Professional Practice

Trevecca Nazarene University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

22. Triden University

Trident University is an online university based in Cypress, California, that was founded in 1996. Trident offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees for its more than 6,800 enrolled students annually. Roughly 75 percent of Trident’s enrollment is comprised of active and retired military personnel.

The school offers a fully online learning experiences across four academic colleges.

Trident University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

243. Union University

Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, is a private evangelical school with an annual enrollment topping 3,377. Union University has been ranked 14th among Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News more than 19 times! The school currently offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a variety of disciplines.

• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Instructional Leadership
• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Leadership in School Reform
• EdD in P-12 School Administration – Teacher Leadership
• EdD in Higher Education

Union University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. University of Dayton

Ohio’s University of Dayton is a private Roman Catholic research university that was founded by the Society of Mary in 1850. UD currently enrolls more than 11,306 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees covering more than 80 academic programs in the arts and sciences are offered by UD.

• EdD in Leadership for Organizations

The  University of Dayton  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

25. University of Florida

The University of Florida boasts an alumni list that includes Tim Tebow, Erin Andrews, and Emmitt Smith. This research university located in Gainesville, Florida, has a history dating back to 1853. The nearly 57,000 students who enroll at UF annually can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees spanning a variety of majors and disciplines.

• EdD in Teachers, Schools, and Society

The  University of Florida  is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

26. University of Houston

The University of Houston is the main institution of the University of Houston System. Founded in 1927, this public research university boasts an annual enrollment of more than 46,000. More than 282 degree programs are offered at UH for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies.

The Princeton Review has ranked the University of Houston as one of America’s best colleges. The Academic Ranking of World Universities has placed UH among the Top 50 American Research Universities.

• EdD in Professional Leadership – Literacy Education
• EdD in Professional Leadership – Social Studies/Social Education

The  University of Houston  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

27. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is the largest and oldest school within the University of Nebraska system. Founded in 1869, UNL enrolls close to 26,000 students annually. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are offered through more than 200 areas of study. UNL’s list of impressive past graduates includes Warren Buffett.

• EdD in Educational Administration – P-12 School Leadership
• EdD in Educational Studies – Educational Leadership and Higher Education
• PhD in Educational Studies – Educational Leadership and Higher Education

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

28. University of New England

The University of New England is a private university with a main campus in Biddeford, Maine. UNE’s history dates back to its founding in 1831. More than 13,743 students enroll annually across the school’s more than 70 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral programs.

The Brookings Institution has ranked UNE second among Maine universities and colleges in terms of increasing career earnings for graduates.

The  University of New England  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

29. University of Southern California

As the oldest private research university in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California enjoys a reputation for offering a robust assortment of bachelors, master’s, and doctoral majors. USC was founded in 1880. It currently enrolls more than 45,000 students across 17 professional schools offering hundreds of majors.

USC’s impressive alumni list includes Neil Armstrong, George Lucas, Robert Zemeckis, John Wayne, Forest Whitaker, Will Ferrell, and Abe Shinzo.

• EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership

The University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior College and University Commission.

30. Vanderbilt Peabody College

Peabody College is one of 10 colleges and schools under the Vanderbilt University umbrella. Peabody College is comprised of five academic colleges offering undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Founded in 1875, Peabody enrolls more than 2,023 students annually.

It has consistently been ranked among the best graduate schools in education by U.S. News & World Report.

• EdD in Leadership and Learning in Organizations

Vanderbilt Peabody College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Online Doctorate in Education Programs

A doctoral program can help you rise to the top of your field and give you the skills to guide teachers and students toward greater knowledge.

• Education (no specialization)

Curriculum & Instruction

Educational leadership, special education.

A number of accredited colleges and universities now offer online Doctor of Education and PhD in Education programs in a wide-range of specializations.

If your passion is for teaching, then it makes sense that you’d choose to earn your doctoral degree in education. This is a generalist degree that may allow you the opportunity to customize your studies or choose an area of specialization. Concentration options may include higher education, administration and classroom technology.

Do you have your sights set on becoming a school administrator? Getting this degree in education online can help qualify you for the job. With a doctorate, you could also consider a job as an instructional coordinator or a special education director. In higher education, you might become an academic dean or a professor.

Outside of the school setting, you could use this degree to improve your abilities as a corporate trainer. If you’re interested in public policy, you could help shape new education laws and initiatives.

The core courses for this degree program may cover topics like education theory, curriculum assessment, classroom diversity, education law and school leadership. You may have the opportunity to choose several electives on topics that are of interest to you.

Your self-selected classes may address early childhood education, social development, special education, literacy instruction, school finance or other relevant issues.

Effective teaching requires that educators use appropriate materials and convey information in meaningful ways. You can explore these concepts in a doctoral program about curriculum and instruction.

This degree can be a good choice for people who want to head up curriculum and instruction departments in school districts or education departments. For example, you could become an instructional coach or a curriculum director.

The knowledge you gain can also increase your capabilities as a principal or a superintendent. Alternatively, you could teach in the education department of a college.

Not all doctoral candidates who choose this program work in formal school settings. This course of study can also be useful if you run education initiatives in museums or community organizations. Your knowledge in this area may also help you shape public policy or become a trusted consultant.

To prepare for these responsibilities, you will probably take courses about the ideas and theories that shape curriculum selection. You may also study how to evaluate whether an instructional approach is working and think about how to conduct research in this area.

The classes may cover additional topics, such as cultivating a team approach to curriculum selection and using technology in the classroom.

School systems and other educational programs need strong leaders who can take the helm of their organizations and make reliable decisions. To become qualified for this type of role, you may want to pursue your degree in educational leadership. Under your direction, you can help organizations thrive and learners take their knowledge to the next level.

Not surprisingly, this degree is best for those who want to assume leadership roles within organizations. Often, those organizations will be traditional school settings; for example, you could be a school principal or a superintendent at the district, regional or state level.

You could also serve as an administrator at levels of education outside of the K–12 bracket — for example, working for a university or a daycare chain.

Getting your educational leadership doctorate has value in non-school settings as well. You could work in a corporation to head up employee development or serve as a training consultant. Another option would be to work as a community services manager who coordinates outreach efforts.

Many of your courses will likely focus on the art and practice of organizational leadership. You will likely discuss how to use creative thinking, make decisions and spearhead changes for the betterment of educational systems.

Some groups of students need individualized instruction or extra classroom supports. Schools’ special education programs are designed to meet those needs. By enrolling in a doctoral program, you can learn to provide strong, effective, student-focused leadership for these programs.

You may be able to pursue a concentration in an area like early childhood or visual impairment.

Special education leaders work in schools and the organizations that support them. You could be a special education director or serve as the administrator of a special-needs school. Working as a curriculum developer can equip classroom teachers with materials that are accessible to students of all ability levels.

Studying special needs can also prepare you to provide leadership in community organizations. You might work in the area of behavioral health or early intervention. You could also make it your mission to shape policies and advocate for special-needs learners at the state or federal level.

During your time in school, you’ll need to study the ethics and laws that should guide special education practice. You may also talk about ways to oversee special education teachers, manage change in your department, make good use of your financial resources and ensure that all students are receiving an appropriate education.

Courses for a Doctorate in Education

Your doctoral program may be largely tailored to your area of interest. Even still, your school will probably have a core set of doctoral classes that every student in your program will need to take. This will probably include some courses that focus on leadership and effective practice in education.

There will also likely be classes that concentrate on conducting research and preparing your dissertation or another final project. Your curriculum may resemble the list below.

• Change and Transition in Schools: Change is inevitable in learning institutions, and your leadership can make all the difference in how your employees respond to times of transition. In addition to learning how to guide others through these situations, you may also discuss how to push for changes that will benefit your staff or students.
• Culture and Diversity in Education: Classrooms are often filled with students from a wide variety of backgrounds, and that can affect educational outcomes. In this course, you can explore how to be sensitive to students’ cultures, and you can discuss how to ensure that education is accessible to all students.
• Education Law: Working in a school system requires abiding by a host of regulations. You’ll need to comply with federal and state laws related to education and employment, and you’ll also need to obey your local school board’s rules. In this course, you may talk about the rights and responsibilities of each member of your school community. Other topics may include navigating legal developments, creating policies for your organization and dealing with legal concerns that may arise.
• Evaluating Learning Outcomes: A particular curriculum or instructional method is only as good as the outcomes it produces. Your studies in this course can teach you to assess programs and procedures to determine whether they’re producing desirable results. It can also help you learn how to approach adjustments when things aren’t working as well as you’d hoped.
• Organizational Leadership: Ultimately, school systems are organizations, so you’ll need to consider team dynamics and administrative structure as you lead. This course may address communication, organizational culture, change management and ethical decision-making.
• Research Design: A doctoral degree usually involves drawing on others’ research and conducting your own studies. You’ll probably take classes to help you understand the research process, learn from scholarly reports, choose an area of study, design informative experiments and present your findings.

You’ll probably have the opportunity to select elective classes, and these may tie in closely with your research area for your dissertation. If you choose a degree concentration, you may have fewer free electives and will instead take classes that are specific to that specialization track.

What Can I Do with a Doctorate in Education?

School roles.

School administration is one of the most popular career paths for this degree. You could become a principal in a K–12 school or work as the superintendent of the district. Superintendents are needed at the regional and state level as well.

Your doctoral degree may also prepare you to take leadership roles over specific school departments. For example, you could become an instructional coordinator, a special education director or a classroom technology director. You could also look for a job as a head teacher.

As an administrator, you could also oversee college operations. Potential roles for you may include president, vice president, provost or academic dean.

Programs for young children need strong leadership as well. You could head up a preschool facility or a daycare center. These roles might be done at the local level or in the upper management of a childcare chain. Tutoring programs have similar needs.

Writing curricula is another way that you can contribute to school settings. Good curriculum programs support both kids and teachers.

Community Roles

Education continues outside the school walls. In organizations throughout your community, education experts are helping pass knowledge on to others.

A museum could be an interesting place for you to work. You could oversee programming to ensure that participants are engaged in meaningful experiences that help them interact with the exhibits or learn more about the world around them. Many museum programs are aimed at young learners, but outreach efforts can target adults as well.

Social services need this sort of expertise as well. Through community programs, people can learn about nutrition, childcare, job placement, literacy and other essential skills. Your work among local populations can better individual families as well as the whole community.

Education professionals work in government and public policy as well. Your expertise could be critical in determining future education policies or establishing new academic standards.

In a corporate setting, you could oversee training programs for new or experienced employees. Effective development programs can increase productivity, reduce waste and boost morale. You could also become a training consultant who works with many different companies.

Academic Roles

Although many doctoral graduates stay in professional practice, others choose an academic track for their careers. This is often done in university settings.

You could be a professor who teaches new students how to become teachers or to improve their skills in education. Your responsibilities might involve teaching undergraduate or graduate students.

Conducting research can be an important career path as well. Your studies may help schools learn more about reaching vulnerable populations, educating special-needs students, supporting teaching staff, engaging parents, keeping kids in school or evaluating curriculum choices.

The research you perform may also play a role in shaping public policy.

Doctorate in Education Salary

It’s often said that people don’t go into teaching for the salary, and, indeed, basic teaching salaries are sometimes low. Despite that, increasing your education and your experience has the potential to significantly increase your earnings.

The following table provides an overview of the salary potential from the Bureau of Labor Statistics of various doctorate in education careers .

Some of these jobs are available to people with only bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Earning your doctorate may qualify you for an automatic salary bump.

The median earnings for these careers can vary significantly throughout the country. For example, elementary and secondary school administrators in New York, California, and Connecticut earn the highest salaries. Wages in areas of Texas and Louisiana may be significantly lower.

Professional Organizations for those with an Education Doctorate Degree

As a leader in education, it’s important to connect with others who feel deeply about reaching students and increasing knowledge. Through membership in a professional organization, you can have opportunities to build relationships with others in your line of work. You can also learn from others’ expertise and share your own ideas with them.

• American Association of School Administrators (AASA) : This group is comprised primarily of school superintendents but also represents education professors and the leaders of related organizations. Joining this group will give you access to industry publications, an online Career Center and professional discounts. At some membership levels, you can be enrolled in the group’s legal support program.
• American Association of University Administrators (AAUA) : Membership in this group is for anyone who has a leadership role in higher education. This includes department heads and institution administrators. As a member, you can read the online journal, participate in professional development initiatives and purchase professional or personal insurance. You may also have opportunities to visit other universities or serve on a committee.
• American Educational Research Association (AERA) : If you’re a researcher, then membership in AERA can help you improve your professional skills and share your findings with others. When you join, you can participate in the organization’s various divisions and special interest groups. You’ll receive discounts on publications and conferences, access to the job board, and political advocacy.
• International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) : Those who are passionate about using technology to enhance education tend to appreciate the support of ISTE. Membership in this group includes a magazine, webinars, discounts and videos of past conferences. You will also be able to use the group’s school standards.
• National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) : School administrators at the elementary and middle school levels learn from one another through membership in NAESP. When you join, you can network with other members through online platforms, read newsletters and magazines, take online courses and receive professional discounts on conference registration and other resources.
• National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) : If you lead at the middle school or high school level, then NASSP can be a good resource for you. As a member, you may have opportunities to attend both in-person and online training programs. The group will provide advocacy for your profession, and you can rely on the included liability insurance policy.
• National Education Association (NEA) : Not just for administrators and other leaders, NEA represents people from throughout the education profession. This includes teachers, aides, administrators, substitute teachers and more. You can join this group if you work in schools at any level, from early education through college. Benefits include personal and professional discounts, website resources, group insurance rates and political advocacy.
• National School Boards Association (NSBA) : State school board associations can participate in NSBA so their members and superintendents can benefit from networking opportunities. The group offers a magazine, a newsletter and an annual conference. NSBA also runs the Council of School Attorneys.

Joining a professional organization can benefit you as a leader. As a result, it can have positive effects on those under you as well as the students in your care. Collaborating with others has the potential to make you a better teacher, administrator and advocate for education.

Certification and Licensure Following a Doctorate in Education Degree

For some positions, just getting a doctorate isn’t enough. You’ll also need to be licensed by your state.

Teachers, especially those in public schools, need to hold state teaching certification. The same goes for school administrators. Principals and superintendents must have administrator licensure. Rules and regulations vary by state, so you’ll need to consult your local board of education to learn how to fulfill the requirements.

You may need to be certified for teaching education at the college level as well. Because this job involves training future teachers, your state may want proof that you are fully qualified for that responsibility.

If you are interested in a licensure position, it’s a good idea to consider your state’s requirements before you begin your schooling. That way, you can make sure that the program you choose will provide the proper preparation.

Admission Requirements for Online PhD or Online EdD Programs

When applying to accelerated doctoral programs in education online, you’ll want to set yourself apart from the pack by submitting a strong application that showcases your strengths.

Doctoral programs often rely on a set of qualification standards for their applicants. You will certainly need to possess a bachelor’s degree, and you may need to have a master’s degree as well. The college may be looking for minimum GPA or test scores.

For some programs, you may need to have taken certain prerequisite classes or hold a teaching license in your state.

Admissions requirements vary among schools. You may need to submit an application packet that includes many of the following elements.

• Transcripts: These should come from all of your previous college experiences at the undergraduate or graduate level.
• Resume: Providing a record of your work history demonstrates how much professional experience you are bringing into the program.
• Letters of reference: The admissions committee may want to see two or three letters. You should ask professional or academic colleagues to provide these reviews.
• Personal statement: This essay should express your motivation for pursuing doctoral studies and address a potential research topic for your dissertation.
• Test scores: Some doctoral programs require GRE scores as part of the admissions process. You may be able to qualify for a waiver if you have sufficient professional experience or high GPA scores.

In addition, there will probably be a basic application form that you must fill out. A fee may be required.

Be sure to start the application process early. It can take time to collect letters of recommendation and to craft your best essay. By beginning well in advance of the deadline, you won’t feel rushed.

After gathering your materials, submit them as soon as possible so you won’t have to worry about last-minute delays causing you to miss the application deadline.

Accreditation

For a college degree at any level, you should always choose a regionally accredited school. Whether you’re earning an undergraduate degree, a master’s or a doctorate, you need to know that you’re going to get a quality education. Regional accreditation serves as a seal of approval for a school’s academic offerings.

There are seven organizations in the U.S. that are authorized to grant regional accreditation. Your school might be accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) or one of the other accreditors.

Keep in mind that regional accreditation and national accreditation are two different things. Regional accreditation is a more rigorous process and is generally more respected by employers and other universities. For better post-graduation job prospects and the opportunity to transfer credits elsewhere, don’t settle for less than regional accreditation.

Financial Aid for an Education Doctoral Degree

Getting an EdD or a PhD can be expensive, so look into tuition help from the government, your school or an outside source.

State and federal government programs may be able to reduce your tuition costs through low-interest loans or work-study arrangements. If your financial need is great enough, you may also qualify for grants. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility.

Some schools provide stipends for doctoral students who serve as research assistants or teach classes. Opportunities may vary for online programs, so talk to your school to learn more.

Scholarships and fellowships are monetary gifts that are available to some doctoral students. To earn these, you may need to distinguish yourself as the best applicant.

Scholarships are often intended to help with tuition, and fellowships may be geared toward funding research projects or educational travel. If you need additional assistance, consider private student loans.

What Are the Cheapest Online EdD Programs?

Finding the cheapest online doctorate for you may take some digging, but keeping your tuition rates low will be worth the work. Start by looking into the public universities in your state; for many students, in-state schools offer the lowest tuition rates. Consider also whether you have any credits to transfer in.

If so, a college that allows a large number of transfer credits may be your most affordable option. Finally, inquire about financial aid options. The school that gives you the largest scholarship or work-study package or may be the best one to select.

What Is the Difference between an ED D and a PhD in Education?

After you get your doctoral degree, do you plan to put your education into practice in a school district or another hands-on setting? If so, you may be interested in the online EdD programs no GRE . This is professional doctorate is intended for people who are involved with the daily work of teaching young students or increasing knowledge among the general public.

On the other hand, if you want to be a college professor or a researcher, then a PhD may be the better choice for you. This academic track focuses on furthering educational theories and equipping university students with teaching skills.

Is an Education Doctorate Degree Worth It?

Yes, an education doctorate degree is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 5% job growth in education, training, and library occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include adult literacy teacher, SPED teacher, instructional coordinator, university dean, and K–12 principal.

Few things are more important than helping students get a good education. If advancing this cause is your life’s mission, then fully equip yourself for the job with a doctorate in education. By earning an online doctorate in education, not only can you have greater influence over others’ learning experiences, but you may also increase your salary.

Earning an online degree doctorate in education may allow you to study from home while maintaining your full-time job. Apply to flexible, accelerated programs to complete your doctoral studies in education on a schedule that works for you.

NYU Steinhardt Launches New 24-Month Online Doctorate of Education Degree Program

This new program was a collaboration between NYU Steinhardt’s educational leadership and policy studies programs and higher education programs.

New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development today announced that its Administration, Leadership, and Technology (ALT) Department will offer a new Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Leadership and Innovation. The program combines 24 months of continuous technology-enhanced courses with two immersive in-person residencies.

“Our new Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Innovation will help transform the next generation of leaders across myriad sectors,” said Dominic Brewer, the Gale and Ira Drukier Dean of NYU Steinhardt. “Developed with the needs of experienced working professionals in mind, this program has been carefully crafted to expand students’ leadership skills as well as their ability to develop innovative solutions that affect sustainable and scalable change in their organizations.”

This new degree is one of only a few two-year EdD programs offered by top-tier research universities that allows students to continue working while they study, applying learnings to their day-to-day. The program also includes two week-long on-campus immersive residencies at the start and end of the program.

The EdD program is centered around students’ integrated capstone projects that address persistent challenges in their organizations. Using academic scholarship, research, and cross-sector exposure, students study all dimensions of schools and other educational institutions and initiatives: conceptual, organizational, political, social, managerial, interpersonal, and technical.

The program was a collaboration between NYU Steinhardt’s educational leadership and policy studies programs and higher education programs. ALT Department Chair Noel S. Anderson, and Lisette Nieves, clinical professor of educational leadership and policy studies, are among the program’s talented and globally respected founding faculty.

“Transformation in education relies increasingly on cross-sector collaboration,” said Anderson. “Now there is a doctorate at a top notch, global university that supports leaders in doing just that.”

The priority application deadline to be considered for the first cohort is October 31. The standard application deadline is November 19. All applicants must meet the minimum qualifications: • Seven to 10 years of work experience • Demonstrate a commitment to, and understanding of, ongoing challenges in education at the Pre-K-12 level, in higher education, or lifelong learning • Have a master’s degree and a GPA of 3.0 or higher

To learn more about the degree program or join an upcoming informational session, visit https://leadershipinnovation.steinhardt.nyu.edu . To contact an admissions officer, interested applicants can email [email protected] or call (877) 710-6381 .

About the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development Located in the heart of New York City’s Greenwich Village, NYU’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development prepares students for careers in the arts, education, health, media and psychology. Since its founding in 1890, the Steinhardt School's mission has been to expand human capacity through public service, global collaboration, research, scholarship, and practice. To learn more about NYU Steinhardt, visit steinhardt.nyu.edu .

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30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

These fully funded Ph.D. programs are in fields like business, computer science, education and nursing.

(Getty Images) |

Many Ph.D. programs are fully funded.

Students interested in graduate research in various fields, from public health and English to computer science and engineering, have numerous options for Ph.D. programs that offer full funding. These programs typically provide waived tuition and fees and an annual stipend. Some also offer health insurance and other benefits. Gaining admittance into these small cohorts can be highly competitive, and the programs can be time-consuming . Here are 30 fully funded Ph.D. programs at U.S. colleges and universities. Keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list – there are others out there.

• Ph.D. in anthropology at the University of Chicago

Anthropology Ph.D. students at the University of Chicago can receive funding for up to eight years of study, assuming they are in good standing at the university. During that time, they will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus health insurance and a living stipend – which equated to $33,000 for the 2022-2023 school year – and can apply for external fellowships.

Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University (MA)

Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston offers a Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health that aims to provide students with expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend and health insurance for five years as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. International students receive the same benefits. Current research in the school's laboratories involves diseases like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria and tuberculosis.

(Dominick Reuter) |

• Ph.D. in business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Students enrolled in the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology can study a range of fields like organization studies, accounting and information technology. Those pursuing a Ph.D. will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus a monthly stipend of $4,267, capped at $51,204. They will also receive medical insurance, new laptops at the beginning of their first and fourth years of study and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.

(Tommy Lavergne | Rice University)

Ph.D. in business at Rice University (TX)

At the Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business in Texas, students enjoy full financial assistance upon admission to the Ph.D. program. Aiming to prepare students to teach in fields like accounting, finance, organizational behavior and strategic management, the program provides students with a research or teaching assistantship. Students receive a tuition waiver and a $40,000 annual stipend contingent on making satisfactory academic progress and maintaining full-time student status.

Office of Strategic Communication | University of Iowa

• Ph.D. in business at the University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's Tippie College of Business offers Ph.D. degrees in fields such as accounting, economics, business analytics and marketing. The college says it provides full funding to "virtually all admitted students." This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments and comprehensive health insurance covered at 90%. Some departments offer funding for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships and paid time off for independent research.

Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University (NY)

According to Cornell University 's website, all students admitted to the chemical engineering Ph.D. program at the New York school receive a full tuition waiver, health insurance and a stipend. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.

Chris Taggart | Columbia University

Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University (NY)

Students enrolled in Columbia University 's Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the Teachers College in New York receive fully funded tuition and a $25,000 stipend annually for three years. The stipend also carries into a student's fourth year. These doctoral fellows "may be expected to serve" as graduate teaching or research assistants. Students typically complete the mentor-matched program, which includes a full-year internship, in five to seven years.

Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University (RI)

Brown University 's Ph.D. students in computer science have access to "full financial support while completing the degree," plus the option to take classes at nearby schools without incurring additional costs, according to the school's website. In fact, doctoral students in any program at the Rhode Island university are guaranteed five years of financial support, which includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees and a subsidy for health insurance.

Georgetown University |

Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University (DC)

Georgetown University 's Ph.D. program in computer science provides scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition at the Washington, D.C., school and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years. Once enrolled in the program, students must complete the Apprenticeship in Teaching Program and ultimately write and defend a full research dissertation in a seminar open to the public.

Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University in St. Louis

Ph.D. students in the computer science or computer engineering program at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support and health insurance. According to the university's website: "As a doctoral candidate, you will also receive a generous stipend to cover living expenses and a new, high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as you continue to make satisfactory progress towards your degree." Doctoral students may also qualify for one of three fellowships.

Jeff Miller | UW-Madison

• Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Wisconsin—Madison

Incoming Ph.D. students at the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin—Madison are guaranteed full funding for the duration of the time that they are expected on campus, according to the university's department of counseling psychology website. Doctoral students also receive a benefits package that includes health insurance. Funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships and/or traineeships.

Emory University |

Ph.D. in economics at Emory University (GA)

Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding, according to the Georgia university's website. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student's cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.

• Ph.D. in education at New York University

New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers more than 30 degree programs. Many can be pursued on campus or online. Ph.D. degrees are offered in areas like developmental psychology, educational leadership and childhood education. Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.

L.A. Cicero, Stanford News Service |

Ph.D. in education at Stanford University (CA)

Stanford University's Graduate School of Education allows students numerous fellowship and assistantship opportunities at the California school, along with a "five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance," the program website reads. At the Graduate School of Education, doctoral students can choose from a range of academic areas like curriculum studies and teacher education, and developmental and psychological sciences.

• Ph.D. in education at the University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.

• Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor can choose from numerous areas of specialization under umbrella categories like aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, macromolecular science and engineering, and robotics. All engineering doctoral students are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend and health insurance. The exact amount can vary, according to the program's website, and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.

Boston University Photography |

• Ph.D. in English at Boston University

Annually, doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, according to the university's website, but it's not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships and short-term research and travel grants.

(Stephanie Diani) |

• Ph.D. in English at the University of California—Los Angeles

Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at the University of California—Los Angeles are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes "a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support and up to four years of teaching assistantships," according to the school website. Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Jeff Watts |

Ph.D. in international relations at American University (DC)

American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean's Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant. Students also must "demonstrate competency in a modern foreign language" before graduating.

Jonathan Cohen | Binghamton University

• Ph.D. in management at Binghamton University—SUNY

All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years. This STEM-designated business doctoral degree prepares students for careers in academia and work in the public and private sectors, and has a student-faculty ratio of 1-to-1, according to the university's website.

Duke University Communications |

Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University (NC)

Doctoral students at Duke University in North Carolina studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university's student medical insurance plan. The doctoral program aims to help students publish with a faculty adviser and develop research skills, with the opportunity to present research at professional conferences.

Homewood Photography | JHU

Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University (MD)

The School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland provides most doctoral students with three fully funded years of study. Available financial aid includes graduate assistantships, targeted fellowships and nursing-specific funding. The university aims to "advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery" with the degree, its website reads. "By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career."

• Ph.D. in nursing at the University of Virginia

All students admitted to the University of Virginia 's Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant. With a heavy research focus, students can expect courses in qualitative, quantitative and historical research, and will have to submit a research proposal for peer review.

Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University (CT)

At Yale University in Connecticut, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care. The program allows students to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular area of study. Every incoming Ph.D. student gets paired with a faculty adviser "whose area of expertise and active research most closely matches with the student’s scholarly interest," according to the school's website.

University of Minnesota |

• Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend and subsidized health insurance. Funding comes from some combination of teaching assistantships, traineeships, research assistantships and fellowships. Students in the program can specialize in areas like cognitive and brain sciences, industrial-organizational psychology and social psychology.

Matt Cashore | University of Notre Dame

Ph.D. within the Romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame (IN)

University of Notre Dame doctoral students who focus on French and Francophone studies, Iberian and Latin American studies or Italian studies are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance. Anyone who completes the Ph.D. degree requirements at the Indiana university within five years will automatically receive a one-year postdoctoral fellowship via the university's 5+1 Program. Fellows will have a teaching load limited to one course per semester.

Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College (PA)

Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College 's Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and "substantial stipends" toward living expenses. The Pennsylvania college's website says: "Consistent with our model, all Ph.D. students are funded equally, and do not compete for basic financial support during coursework." The program's cohorts typically include only three or four students each year. According to the college, it awarded the first Ph.D. degree in social work in the U.S. in 1920.

Vanderbilt University |

Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University (TN)

Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. This includes full tuition, a "competitive" monthly stipend and health insurance for up to four years. Students may also be nominated for additional honor scholarships and fellowships. Areas of focus within the Ph.D. program include high-incidence disabilities and early childhood education.

Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University (IL)

This interdisciplinary Ph.D. program at Northwestern University in Illinois combines coursework in humanities, social science and the visual arts. The program's students receive a five-year full-tuition scholarship plus an annual living stipend. Ph.D students enrolling at this program in fall 2022 will receive a living stipend of at least $36,960 during the 2023-2024 school year. Stipend amounts may change from year to year. Students can apply for subsidies to facilitate conference travel and summer language study.

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

• Ph.D. in women, gender and sexuality studies at University of Maryland

At the University of Maryland 's Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master's degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master's degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships. Since the program's establishment in 1999, the department has granted 36 Ph.Ds, according to UMD's website.

Learn more about paying for graduate school.

Finding a fully funded program isn't the only option to offset the costs of graduate school. See these seven strategies to pay for graduate school to learn more. Check out the latest Best Graduate Schools rankings to see the country's top business, medicine and law programs – and more. For additional grad school tips, follow U.S. News Education on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn .

Ph.D. programs that are fully funded

• Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University
• Ph.D. in business at Rice University
• Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University
• Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University—St. Louis
• Ph.D. in economics at Emory University
• Ph.D. in education at Stanford University
• Ph.D. in international relations at American University
• Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University
• Ph.D. within the romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame
• Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College
• Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University
• Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University

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Doctoral programs.

The goal of the GSE PhD in Education is to prepare the next generation of leading education researchers. The cornerstone of the doctoral experience at the Stanford Graduate School of Education is the research apprenticeship that all students undertake, typically under the guidance of their academic advisor, but often with other Stanford faculty as well.

In this apprenticeship model, doctoral students are provided with a multi-year funding package that consists of opportunities each quarter to serve as teaching and research assistants for faculty members' courses and research projects. By this means, and in combination with the courses they take as part of their program, students are prepared over an approximately five-year period to excel as university teachers and education researchers.

The doctoral degree in Education at the GSE includes doctoral program requirements as well as a specialization, as listed below, overseen by a faculty committee from one of the GSE's three academic areas.

Doctoral programs by academic area

Curriculum studies and teacher education (cte).

• ‌ Elementary Education
• ‌ History/Social Science Education
• ‌ Learning Sciences and Technology Design
• ‌ Literacy, Language, and English Education
• ‌ Mathematics Education
• ‌ Science, Engineering and Technology Education
• ‌ Race, Inequality, and Language in Education
• ‌ Teacher Education

Developmental and Psychological Sciences (DAPS)

• ‌ Developmental and Psychological Sciences

Social Sciences, Humanities, and Interdisciplinary Policy Studies in Education (SHIPS)

• ‌ Anthropology of Education
• ‌ Economics of Education
• ‌ Education Data Science
• ‌ ‌Educational Linguistics
• ‌ Educational Policy
• ‌ Higher Education
• ‌ History of Education
• ‌ International Comparative Education
• ‌ Organizational Studies
• ‌ Philosophy of Education
• ‌ Sociology of Education

Cross-area specializations

Learning sciences and technology design (lstd).

LSTD allows doctoral students to study learning sciences and technology design within the context of their primary program of study (DAPS, CTE, or SHIPS).

Race, Inequality, and Language in Education (RILE)

RILE trains students to become national leaders in conducting research on how race, inequality, and language intersect to make both ineffective and effective educational opportunities. RILE allows students to specialize within their program of study (DAPS, CTE, or SHIPS).

Other academic opportunities

• ‌ Concentration in Education and Jewish Studies
• ‌ PhD Minor in Education
• ‌ Stanford Doctoral Training Program in Leadership for System-wide Inclusive Education (LSIE)
• ‌ Certificate Program in Partnership Research in Education
• ‌ Public Scholarship Collaborative

“I came to Stanford to work with faculty who value learning in informal settings and who are working to understand and design for it.”

Doctoral graduates were employed within four months of graduation

of those employed worked in organizations or roles related to education

For more information about GSE admissions and to see upcoming events and appointments:

To learn more about the Academic Services team:

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482 Galvez Mall Stanford, CA 94305-3096 Tel: (650) 723-2109

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Teaching, learning, and teacher education, doctor of philosophy (ph.d.), you are here, a doctoral program preparing education researchers, teacher educators, curriculum specialists, and instructional leaders..

The Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education focuses on the preparation of researchers and teacher educators in universities and colleges. Focal areas include teaching and learning, research and practice in teacher education, mathematics education, science education, and the study of urban education and urban contexts. 

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

The Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education focuses on the preparation of researchers in education. The program includes formal courses, mentored research, and informal seminars.  The program is designed to draw together coursework, research apprenticeship, and other professional academic activities to build a complete professional program that is tailored to your interests and needs.

Fall: 3; Spring: 3

Culminating experience Dissertation

Coursework and research experiences address a range of practice-based and theoretical problems in schools and community settings from sociopolitical, cultural, philosophical, psychological, and historical perspectives. Taking an interdisciplinary stance, faculty and students explore issues of equity, social justice, and educational change in a range of formal and informal educational settings. You will build a program of study that includes courses in teaching and learning, social foundations, and research methods.  Applicants interested in the focal area of literacy are encouraged to consider the doctoral program in Literacy Studies .

Field-based research and collaborative projects with practitioners in schools or other educational settings are key components of the program. The program is designed to draw together coursework, research apprenticeship, and other professional academic activities to build a complete professional program that is tailored to your interests and needs.

As a full-time Ph.D. student, you are expected to be in residence and participate in practicum activities, courses, and other academic experiences throughout the first two years, where you will be enrolled in 3 course units per semester. Coursework and experiences are arranged around three areas or strands, including specialization courses, research methods courses, and electives/professional experiences, as well as a set of core courses. For more information about courses and requirements, visit the  Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ph.D. program in the University Catalog .

Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC)

The RAC is part of the Professional Experiences strand and is designed to assist you in developing, conducting, and presenting your own original research. The course focuses on the research interests of the students and requires participation in the scheduling of activities, presentations, and directing part of the RAC agenda as it pertains to the collective needs of the group. Students from the different stages of the doctoral program will serve as mentors to one another, with faculty oversight. You will participate in the RAC beginning in the spring of your first year and continue participation until the completion of your dissertation.

Annual Self-Evaluation : Each year, doctoral students complete a Professional Self-Evaluation that is used as part of the ongoing evaluation and planning process. You are introduced to the evaluation form in the proseminar and will work on it in the spring Research Apprenticeship Course (RAC). The deadline for the Professional Self-evaluation falls in mid-autumn or mid-spring.

Qualifying Examination : The Qualifying Examination is taken by all doctoral students, most often at the end of the first year. Passing this exam is an important step in being admitted to program candidacy. In order to take the qualifying exam, you need to have completed the Doctoral Proseminar, Doctoral Foundations of Teaching and Learning, Education, Culture, and Society, 1 RAC, and 1 research methods course.

Program Candidacy : You are assessed for program candidacy after successfully completing the  Doctoral Proseminar, Doctoral Foundations of Teaching and Learning, Education, Culture, and Society, 1 RAC, and 1 research methods course, and passing the Qualifying Examination. You must be in good academic standing to receive program candidacy.

Preliminary Examination : The Preliminary Examination is taken after you have completed all courses and before you begin work on your dissertation. Passing the Preliminary Exam allows you to be admitted to doctoral candidacy. You may submit a Preliminary Exam from the start of the fall semester through April 1. A description of the Preliminary Exam is available from the Division Coordinator. 

Dissertation : To complete the Ph.D., you must design and undertake an original research study under the direction of your dissertation committee. Students should see Penn GSE and Penn-wide policies and speak with their advisor about the requirements of the dissertation.

Our Faculty

Affiliated Faculty

Ryan S. Baker Professor Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon University

Bodong Chen Associate Professor Ph.D., University of Toronto

Matthew Duvall Lecturer Ph.D., Drexel University

L. Michael Golden Executive Director, Catalyst @ Penn GSE Ed.D., University of Pennsylvania

Zachary Herrmann Adjunct Assistant Professor Ed.L.D., Harvard University

Charlotte E. Jacobs Director, Independent School Teaching Residency Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

Michael C. Johanek Senior Fellow Ed.D., Teachers College, Columbia University

Yasmin B. Kafai Lori and Michael Milken President’s Distinguished Professor Ed.D., Harvard University

Andrea M. Kane Professor of Practice, Education Leadership Ph.D., Northcentral University

Rand Quinn Associate Professor Ph.D., Stanford University

Sharon M. Ravitch Professor of Practice Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania

Susan A. Yoon Graduate School of Education Presidential Professor Ph.D., University of Toronto

"Penn taught me, Penn GSE especially, that if you have the right combination of ingredients—commitment from the structure, mentors, and colleagues—then risk-taking, innovation, and progress will for sure ignite."

Justice Toshiba Walker

Our graduates.

Our graduates are prepared for research and academic careers in education, psychology, and related human services fields.

Alumni Careers

• Adjunct Professor, Moore College of Art and Design
• Assistant Professor of Special Education, Villanova University
• Assistant Professor, Montclair State University
• Assistant Professor, Utah State University
• Director, Out of School Time Resource Center
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Temple University

Admissions & Financial Aid

Please visit our Admissions and Financial Aid pages for specific information on the application requirements , as well as information on tuition, fees, financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

Graduate School of Education University of Pennsylvania 3700 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 898-6415 [email protected] [email protected]

Noemí Fernández Program Manager [email protected]

Please view information from our Admissions and Financial Aid Office for specific information on the cost of this program.

All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

Related News & Research

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Brooks Bowden highlights consequences of lenient grading in "The Economist"

Penn counseling lab prepares counselors for future work with simulated sessions.

Homeroom: the story behind Nimet Eren’s artifacts at Kensington Health

Collaboratory for Teacher Education

The Collaboratory for Teacher Education at Penn GSE is a laboratory for the design, implementation, and study of experimental approaches to teacher education.

Core Practice Consortium

The Core Practice Consortium brings together teacher educators from across institutions, disciplines, and theoretical perspectives to grapple with questions about how better to prepare novice teachers. 

Our Students

Current students in the Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education program are researching a range of topics including mathematical practices, teacher education, maker-based project education, culturally responsive pedagogy, science education, and media making. 

View Doctoral Student Profiles

You May Be Interested In

Related programs.

• Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education Ed.D.
• Reading/Writing/Literacy Ph.D.
• Reading/Writing/Literacy Ed.D.
• Learning Sciences and Technologies M.S.Ed.
• Teaching, Learning, and Leadership M.S.Ed.
• Education, Culture, and Society Ph.D.

Related Topics

Ed.D. in Higher Education – Educational Leadership The Art of Inspiring Progress in Education

Credit Hours

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Become an Effective Leader at Your College or University with Liberty’s Educational Leadership Doctoral Program Online

If you want to strengthen your leadership skills and advance your career in university administration, Liberty’s 100% online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership degree can help. Our program provides advanced training in policy analysis, supervision, and conflict resolution so you can prepare to apply research-based solutions to real-world education problems.

Strong leadership is essential in every organization, but there are some unique challenges that come with overseeing people and programs in an educational setting. Throughout our school leadership doctoral program online, you can learn how to address various challenges facing today’s higher education leaders, including social, political, and economic factors.

At Liberty, we’re committed to helping you become an effective educational leader — someone who doesn’t just carry out administrative duties but also finds ways to improve policies and advance educational systems. Partner with us and see how far your Ed.D. degree can take you.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Doctorate in Educational Leadership Online?

We don’t just train education professionals — we train qualified individuals who want to make a positive impact on the next generation. It’s about who you are and who you aspire to become. Maybe you are a college or university administrator looking to boost your effectiveness and further your career. Or perhaps you are a faculty member seeking new job opportunities in postsecondary education administration. Either way, our online doctorate in educational leadership can help you shape your institution’s policies, goals, and objectives.

At Liberty, you’ll learn from the best. Our Ed.D. professors have years of experience in teaching and administration. Under their guidance, you can prepare to solve problems and improve practices in the field of higher education. You’ll learn how to apply research and theory to real-world challenges while modeling high standards of ethics before your peers.

Earn a degree that fits your schedule. Our educational leadership program is offered 100% online, allowing you to complete your courses whenever it’s most convenient for you. You’ll have the freedom to stay invested in the things that matter most — like your family, job, and community — while pursuing a rigorous education taught from a biblical perspective. And, unlike most PhD programs, our online Ed.D. requires a capstone project instead of a dissertation so you can use applied research to solve practical problems in your profession.

What Will You Study in Our Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership?

Educational leaders seek to foster productive learning environments that allow students and faculty to thrive. Our Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership provides an opportunity for you to earn a terminal degree, enhance your understanding of school leadership challenges, and prepare for career advancement. With the skills taught in this program, you could work at an institution of higher education or branch out into roles at other organizations that shape educational policy and procedure.

This degree is broken down into 4 main parts: core higher education courses, the educational leadership specialization, research and evaluation classes, and the capstone project. You’ll explore foundational topics like university administration, best teaching practices, and economic issues related to higher education. You’ll also complete several research courses, culminating in a capstone designed to promote real-world application.

Within the educational leadership specialization, you can tailor your degree by choosing from a variety of courses. Some of the subjects you could explore include special education administration, issues and trends in learning technologies, and organizational analysis. You can also dive into the history, philosophy, and goals of multicultural education so you can more effectively meet the needs of diverse student bodies. With a firm understanding of the current challenges facing educational leaders, you can prepare to help college students grow academically and professionally.

Potential Career Opportunities

• Academic dean
• Admissions director
• Chief academic officer
• College/university president
• Curriculum specialist
• Director of an educational organization
• Education researcher
• Educational consultant
• Instructional coordinator
• Professor/postsecondary education instructor
• Training and development specialist

Featured Courses

• EDUC 745 – Organizational Analysis and Problem Solving
• EDUC 759 – College and University Administration
• EDUC 840 – Issues and Trends in Educational Leadership
• EDUC 845 – Policy Analysis

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Education .
• View the Graduate Education Course Guides (login required) .
• View the Doctoral Advising Guide .
• This is a non-licensure program.
• Most of our Ed.D. courses are offered in an 8-week format; however, the capstone courses are 16 weeks long.

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Liberty’s Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

The Office of Graduate Admissions may request additional documentation when conducting admission reviews to evaluate a candidate’s record before a final admission decision can be made.

Please note: Guidelines are subject to change in federal or state regulations for the licensure of school personnel.

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Please note: Due to the competitive nature of the Ed.D. online program, preliminary acceptance is not guaranteed.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

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The Best Free PhD Programs. Fully funded PhD programs

Navigating the complexities of PhD programs, one term often dominates the discourse – “fully funded”.

It represents a golden opportunity wherein all tuition fees and living expenses are covered by the educational institution, allowing students to focus on their research and studies free from financial constraints.

In this blog post, we explore what fully funded really means, share the author’s personal journey of pursuing a PhD in Australia, delve into the policies of various countries offering free or nearly free PhD programs, and provide key tips for securing a fully funded PhD opportunity.

Whether you’re considering a domestic program or an international adventure, the insights and tips offered here could pave the way to an invaluable, financially stress-free academic journey.

What Does Fully Funded Mean?

In 2023, the concept of a “fully funded” PhD program signifies that the entirety of expenses related to the doctoral program is covered. This includes tuition fees, which are either waived or entirely paid for by the educational institution.

Beyond tuition, the program also encompasses a living stipend or allowance given to doctoral students. 

Fully funded PhD programs essentially function as a comprehensive scholarship, covering everything from tuition fees to books and other necessary supplies.

While the stipend amount can vary based on the institution, it is generally sufficient to cater to the basic living expenses of the students, covering rent, food, and transportation costs.

The main aim of providing this stipend to doctoral students is to facilitate a learning environment where they can focus entirely on their studies, research, and dissertation, without the distraction of financial pressures. 

Universities, including public ones, offer these fully funded doctoral programs with the intention to draw in the best students.

These students, in turn, are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of research in their respective fields and derive a high-quality education from their doctorates.

It is important to note that eligibility for these scholarships or stipends requires proof of commitment to the doctoral degree. In my experience, this meant securing a top-class master’s degree. This reassured the university of my dedication to pursuing a PhD and furthering my education.

In recent years, there has been a rise in such fully funded programs online , offering a wider reach for prospective PhDs.

As we move further into 2023, students may increasingly opt for these online PhD programmes, making the pursuit of doctoral degrees more accessible than ever.

Countries with a free PhD / fully funded PhD

Sometimes doing a free PhD means going abroad and doing your PhD in another country.

Personally, I travelled to Australia to do my PhD for the adventure and lifestyle. I was able to get a fully funded placement and international student fee waiver for three years to finish my degree.

Here’s a summary of some of the best countries you could do you PhD in if you want to do it for free.

In the Czech Republic , public universities host a multitude of English-language PhD programs and these programs are free for all PhD students, irrespective of their nationality. However, additional costs may be incurred by international students which might include language courses, health insurance, or student services fees, depending on the university policies.

Sweden maintains a unique policy that not only eradicates PhD fees at public universities but also provides study grants to some PhD students, which serves as a financial aid for their living expenses during the tenure of their studies.

In Germany , public universities offer feeless PhD programs to all students. However, a nominal administration fee, approximately €300 per semester, is required. This fee usually covers student services and perks like public transportation and access to university facilities.

Austria ‘s policy benefits PhD students from within the EU and EEA who complete their doctorates within a stipulated time frame, offering free education at public research universities. International students, on the other hand, have to pay fees, which, nonetheless, are capped by the Austrian government to maintain affordability.

Norway , like its Nordic counterparts, offers free PhD education at public universities to all students, regardless of their origin. But a small semester fee, usually covering student services, is obligatory.

Denmark also practices a policy of free PhD education for EU, EEA, and Swiss students at public universities, but international students are required to pay fees, which are generally on the higher side compared to other European countries.

Finland doesn’t discriminate in terms of nationality and offers free PhD studies at public universities. However, international students are charged for their Masters programs.

Saudi Arabia stands out with its unique policy where all PhD students are awarded scholarships that automatically cover their education fees, as well as help them with living expenses.

In the Netherlands , PhD study isn’t universally free, but many institutions extend the offer of free PhD study to international postgraduates. Some universities consider the PhD students as university employees, offering them a waiver on fees and potentially a salary or benefits.

Switzerland , although not offering free PhD studies, keeps its fees low at around CHF 1500 per year at public universities. State-funded PhD positions are also available to EU, EEA, and Swiss students that come with no fees and a maintenance grant.

Top tips for finding a PhD for free.

Here are the top tips I would give you when Choosing a free PhD.

• Apply to STEM programs: Many PhD (and Master’s) programs, especially in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) fields, are fully funded in the US. Most state schools and Ivy League schools have fully funded programs for these fields.
• Prepare for stiff competition: Because these programs are fully funded, the competition is high. It’s not uncommon for hundreds or even thousands of students to apply to these programs each year, with only a small fraction being accepted.
• Consider assistantships: Fully-funded programs usually provide a stipend in the form of Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) or Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions. These roles involve either teaching or conducting research under a professor’s supervision.
• Be ready for some costs: Despite tuition being covered, you may still need to cover some school fees, student insurance, and other miscellaneous expenditures.
• Don’t consider unfunded programs: Many graduate programs do not fund students, but experts advise against attending these schools. The availability of funding indicates the health of the department in terms of research money and growth.
• Work on your application: The application process generally starts around September to December. Standardized tests such as GRE and TOEFL/IELTS are required, along with transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
• Avoid programs that require you to pay: It’s a common sentiment among experts that if you’re paying to be a PhD student, there might be something wrong with the program.
• Apply for fellowships: There are graduate fellowships available for international students that cover tuition and offer a monthly stipend.

Fully funded online PhD programs in the US

Here are some examples of PhD programs in the states that are free and fully funded:

• Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at UCLA are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes “a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support, and up to four years of teaching assistantships.” Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Connecticut

• At Yale University, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care.

District of Columbia

• Georgetown University offers scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years to students in its PhD program in computer science.
• Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student’s cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.
• The University of Chicago provides funding for up to eight years of study for its anthropology PhD students. This includes a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance, and a living stipend of $33,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year. Students are also eligible to apply for external fellowships.
• University of Notre Dame doctoral students are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance.
• The Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa provides full funding to “virtually all admitted students.” This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments, and 90% coverage of comprehensive health insurance. Additional funding is also provided for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships, and paid time off for independent research.
• At the University of Maryland’s Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master’s degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master’s degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships.

Massachusetts

• The T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard University offers a PhD in biological sciences in public health, providing expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for five years, assuming students maintain satisfactory academic progress. Current research involves diseases such as AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria, and tuberculosis.
• Students enrolled at the Sloan School of Management at MIT have the opportunity to study various fields, such as organization studies, accounting, and information technology. They receive a full-tuition scholarship, a monthly stipend of $4,267, medical insurance, new laptops at the start of their first and fourth years of study, and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.
• Doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees, and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, but it’s not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships, and short-term research and travel grants.
• Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend, and health insurance. The exact amount can vary and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.
• Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend, and subsidized health insurance.
• PhD students in computer science or computer engineering at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support, health insurance, a generous stipend for living expenses, and a new high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as long as students continue to make satisfactory progress towards their degree.
• Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.
• All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years.
• Cornell University offers full funding to all students admitted to its PhD program in chemical engineering. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months, with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.
• Columbia University provides fully funded tuition and a $25,000 annual stipend for three years to students enrolled in its PhD program in clinical psychology. This stipend also carries into the student’s fourth year, during which they may be expected to serve as a graduate teaching or research assistant.

North Carolina

• Doctoral students at Duke University studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend, and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university’s student medical insurance plan.

Pennsylvania

• The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.
• Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College’s Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and “substantial stipends” toward living expenses.

Rhode Island

• Brown University guarantees full financial support for five years to its PhD students in computer science. This includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees, and a subsidy for health insurance.
• Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at Vanderbilt University. This includes full tuition, a “competitive” monthly stipend, and health insurance for up to four years.
• Rice University offers full financial assistance to students admitted to the PhD program at the Jones Graduate School of Business. This includes a research or teaching assistantship, a tuition waiver, and a $40,000 annual stipend, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress and full-time student status.
• All students admitted to the University of Virginia’s Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance, and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant.

Washington D.C.

• American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean’s Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees, and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant.
• The University of Wisconsin—Madison guarantees full funding for the duration of the time doctoral students are expected to be on campus. This funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships, and/or traineeships. In addition, doctoral students receive a benefits package that includes health insurance.

Wrapping up

This comprehensive article delves into everything you need to know about free PhD programs, also known as fully funded PhD programs, including the essential details, benefits, and potential challenges that students may encounter.

The term “free PhD” generally refers to a fully funded program that covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses, allowing students to complete their PhD studies without financial burden.

It is crucial to understand why you should never enter a PhD program without proper funding. Hence, pursuing a free or fully funded PhD should be a priority for all PhD students, regardless of nationality or field of study.

These programs may be offered both online and on-campus by various top universities around the world.

Fully funded PhD programs cater to both international and local students, including those pursuing a traditional PhD, online doctorate, or an accelerated executive doctorate of education.

For instance, fully funded online PhD programs in fields like business administration, education policy, and social work in clinical practice are available for students who hold master’s or bachelor’s degrees.

The duration of these programs may range from 1 year for fast-track or shortest doctoral programs to several years for other disciplines. Moreover, many programs focus on specialization in subjects like higher education policy, laboratory research, and much more.

One of the perks of these programs is that many institutions provide a stipend to cover living expenses during the course of study, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research without worrying about financial constraints.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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Teen walks at graduation after completing doctoral degree at 17

Dorothy Jean Tillman II was 10 when she entered college as a freshman.

A teenager from Chicago walked in her graduation ceremony this month after earning her doctoral degree at 17.

Dorothy Jean Tillman II told " Good Morning America " that she was homeschooled in her early years before entering college at age 10.

In 2020, she said she earned a Master of Science degree, and then, one year later, at age 15, was accepted into the Doctorate of Behavioral Health Management program at Arizona State University.

In December 2023, at 17, Tillman successfully defended her dissertation to earn her doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from ASU's College of Health Solutions.

On May 6, she walked at ASU's spring commencement ceremony.

Tillman told "GMA" she has always held education in such high regard in part due to her family's background.

"People in my life like my grandmother, who was part of the Civil Rights movement, she of course harped on the importance of education and consistently learning something always," Tillman said. "But the way I always held education so high on my own, aside from being raised that way, was finding different things to be educated about."

She continued, "I feel like that urge to learn something new just never didn't exist for me."

Teen who battled leukemia and homelessness as a child graduates college at 18

Dr. Lesley Manson, a clinical associate professor at ASU, told "GMA" that Tillman is the youngest person in school history to earn a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health.

Manson said she oversaw Tillman's dissertation for the doctoral program offered through ASU Online.

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During her studies, Tillman wrote a journal article of her dissertation and completed an internship at a university student health center, according to Manson.

"She really led change and worked on different forms of management to really reduce healthcare stigma and improve that student population there to be able to enter and accept student health services," she said of Tillman. "It was wonderful to see her and help her navigate some of those personal and professional interactions and grow through those experiences."

Manson described Tillman as an "inquisitive" and "innovative" student, and emphasized just how rare it is to accomplish what she has so far.

"It's a wonderful celebration ... but this is still something so rare and unique," she said. "She has innovative ideas and motivation, which is wonderful, and truly, I think what is inspiring is that she embodies that meaning of being a true leader."

Manson said she hopes Tillman continues to inspire people with her love of learning, saying, "That curiosity is always there, and I think all learners come with that, but it's great to be able to see it in someone so young as well."

Her inspiration and how she gives back to community

Tillman said her own journey wouldn't be possible without the support of her mom, who she said is one of her biggest motivators.

"Seeing my mother consistently work so hard to continuously uphold our family's legacy, and be that person that everyone was able to go to, if they needed anything ... always seeing [her] like [a] 'wonder woman' definitely made me want to grow up [into] an accomplished person," she said.

An advocate for education, Tillman is also the founder and CEO of a leadership institute that emphasizes the arts and STEM.

"I feel like adding art and putting a focus on it throughout science, technology, engineering and math makes the kids excited to learn all those things," she said. "And it opens them up to all of the possibilities and all the knowledge provided in that area of just STEM."

'Super dad' graduates with master's while working 3 jobs

As for her plans after graduation, Tillman said she is "just like any other teenager, still figuring out what my specific dreams and goals are."

"I'm really just grateful that the world is my oyster, and that I've done so much so young," she said. "And I have time to kind of think that through."

Tillman added that she hopes young people will take away from her story that it's OK to continually figure out what you want to do in life.

"Always remember that everyone has points in their life where they feel like they're figuring it out," she said. "And so figuring things out, not knowing what you want isn't a bad thing. But making the choice not to sit down and try to figure it out is."

Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional quotes from Tillman since its original publish date of May 13, 2024.

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Harvard University to Offer Groundbreaking Doctoral Program for Education Leaders

• Posted September 14, 2009
• By News editor

Harvard University today announced the launch of a new, practice-based doctoral program to prepare graduates for senior leadership roles in school districts, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector.

The new tuition-free Doctor of Education Leadership Program (Ed.L.D.) will be taught by faculty from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Harvard Business School (HBS), and the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS). The program offers an unprecedented approach to preparing leaders equipped to transform the American education system in order to enable all students to succeed in a 21st-century world. The three-year program will begin in August 2010 and initially enroll 25 students per year.

"One of the core missions of Harvard's professional schools is to prepare leaders who can guide organizations in a rapidly changing environment. No sector has a greater need for such transformational leaders than public education," said Harvard President Drew Faust. "I am delighted that professors from three outstanding professional schools are combining their knowledge and experience to create this groundbreaking program."

Based at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Ed.L.D. will be the first new degree offered in 74 years by the school. The degree is a practice-based doctorate designed to equip students with a deep understanding of learning and teaching as well as the management and leadership skills necessary to reshape the American education sector.

In the first two years of the program, students will participate in a new customized curriculum of classes, modules, and practice-based experiences. In the concluding year, students will enter a year-long residency in a partner education organization pursuing transformational change where they will receive hands-on training and lead a capstone project to complete the doctoral degree.

"Research clearly shows that no school improvement effort can succeed without effective leadership, and such leadership is needed at all levels - federal, state, district, and school - in our current systems and in the systems we will create in the future," said M. Christine DeVita, president of The Wallace Foundation , which provided a $10-million grant to support the effort. "The new Doctor of Education Leadership Program draws on what we've learned about effective leader preparation over the past decade. By providing fellowship support that will remove the barrier of cost and student debt, we hope to attract the most accomplished and promising future leaders to this innovative program and to these careers that are so important to our nation's future."

The program tethers academic preparation to real-world practice by partnering with the same types of organizations that graduates of the program will aspire to lead. These organizations include not only many of the leading urban school districts (e.g., Atlanta, Denver, New York City), but also some of the most noted organizations driving change in K-12 education (including Teach for America, New Leaders for New Schools, KIPP, and the National Center on Education and the Economy).

"Our goal is not to develop leaders for the system as it currently exists; rather, we aim to develop people who will lead system transformation," said Harvard Graduate School of Education Dean Kathleen McCartney . "We believe this new degree program will be a catalyst to drive that change. It will allow us to meet our goal of producing a new generation of education leaders, who will have a laser-like focus on student learning, and will know how to translate that into large-scale system change. They will be successful by altering education policy debates, forging powerful public-private partnerships, and restoring public confidence in our schools."

The Doctor of Education Leadership Program - which will be led by HGSE faculty Richard Elmore , Harry Spence (HGSE/HKS), and Elizabeth City (HGSE) - is unique in its integrated curriculum in learning and instruction, management and leadership, and policy and politics. Students will learn with faculty from the three professional schools, including Stacey Childress (HBS), Marshall Ganz (HKS), Deborah Jewell-Sherman (HGSE), Robert Kegan (HGSE), Mark Moore (HKS/HGSE), and David Thomas (HBS).

"In creating this groundbreaking program, we are proud to bring together the strengths of our three great faculties with an array of exceptionally pioneering organizations," said Professor Robert Schwartz , academic dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Education. "The Obama Administration and large private foundations are about to make unprecedented levels of investment in education reform. It is critical that states and districts, and the national organizations they count on for support, have access to a pipeline of leadership talent equipped with the knowledge and skills to ensure that these investments produce dramatic improvements in the performance of our schools."

Press Contact: Michael Rodman, 617-496-5037

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• The New York Times (12/29/09)

Ed.L.D. partners include:

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Chicago graduate makes history by earning doctorate at 17

Dorothy Jean Tillman II, whose grandmother was a civil rights activist, is now the youngest Arizona State University student to get a doctorate in her field

A Chicago teenager walked in her university’s commencement program after making history for earning a doctorate degree at the age of 17.

Dorothy Jean Tillman II celebrated the rare accomplishment, describing commencement week as “surreal” and “full of reflection and inspiration”, in a post to Instagram.

“I got a chance to meet many of my classmates in person as well as professors,” she said. “To get the opportunity to speak on the stage in front of 20,000 people live and 3 million online was truly an honor.”

Tillman first began her collegiate career at the young age of 10, while most of her peers were still navigating middle school and awkward adolescence.

Tillman, who was home schooled in childhood, began taking college classes through the College of Lake County in Grayslake, Illinois, about two hours outside of Chicago.

She earned her associate’s degree in 2016 and finished her bachelor’s degree at Excelsior University, an online degree program based in Albany, New York, in 2018.

After completing a master of science degree in 2020, Tillman was accepted into the Doctorate of Behavioral Health Management program at Arizona State University in 2021 – at the age of 15.

Tillman successfully defended her dissertation in December, joining her classmates in person at ASU’s spring commencement on 6 May.

Leslie Manson, the associate professor who oversaw Tillman’s dissertation through ASU’s online program, said Tillman was the youngest person to complete a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health at ASU.

“It’s a wonderful celebration … but this is still something so rare and unique,” Manson said. “She has innovative ideas and motivation, which is wonderful, and truly, I think what is inspiring is that she embodies that meaning of being a true leader.”

Tillman credited her family as one of her biggest inspirations to complete her graduate studies.

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“Seeing my mother consistently work so hard to continuously uphold our family’s legacy and be that person that everyone was able to go to, if they needed anything … always seeing [her] like Wonder Woman definitely made me want to grow up [into] an accomplished person,” Tillman said to Good Morning America.

Tillman is also the granddaughter of Dorothy Tillman, the former Chicago alderwoman who was involved in the civil rights movement.

“People in my life like my grandmother, who was part of the civil rights movement, she of course harped on the importance of education and consistently learning something always,” Tillman said.

With her degrees now done, Tillman told GMA that she plans to continue reflecting on what her specific goals are as well as focus on other interests, including public speaking and a leadership institute she created.

“I’m really just grateful that the world is my oyster, and that I’ve done so much so young,” she said. “And I have time to kind of think that through.”

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