What is a Doctorate in Education?

What is a Doctorate in Education?

The Doctor of Education degree is often referred to as a terminal degree because it is the highest level of education obtainable for all areas of study. The doctorate prepares students for scholastic, administrative or research positions in education, civil service, and work with private organizations. A standard program typically requires the scholar to complete several years of course work, taking 15 additional courses after finishing a master's degree. Coursework also includes a comprehensive exam and thesis. The thesis demonstrates the doctoral candidate's research and findings and is submitted for analysis to the candidate's dissertation committee. In today's day and age, the growth of technology and distance learning has lead to growth in the popularity of online doctoral educational degrees. Working towards an online degree is an easier way for full-time working individuals to continue their education.

What are the benefits of getting a Doctorate degree?

There are two possible programs that one can choose from, and both are available online. A Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) tends to be more project-based, while a Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Ph.D.) is more research-based or theoretical in nature. Throughout the United States, both Ed.D. and Ph.D. Doctors of Education are seen as lecturers or professors in universities; however, they may also be training for administrative positions, such as superintendents of schools, human resource directors, or principals. There are many Ph.D. programs in Education that are available online, which means students are able to find a program that suites their lifestyle best. 360 Education Solutions finds only the top quality online academic degree programs for teachers, including doctorate education programs.

There are many advantages when it comes to having a doctorate degree in Education. With this degree comes better employment opportunities that are typically closed to those with only their master's degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median weekly earnings in 2016 for those holding a doctorate was $1,832, while a person with master's degree earned $1,557 and a bachelor's earned $1,325. Networking is another great benefit. Students almost always meet a number of experts in the field, professors and colleagues, go to conferences where professional contacts are potentially made, and work with a variety of top-quality intellectuals. Many people who earned an online Ph.D. in education are able to clearly articulate why one theorist has credibility and why another may not, and they themselves may become credible theorists in their field.

With an online doctorate in education, people are a source of knowledge to their coworkers and peers. This opportunity leaves graduates with research experience that can potentially help improve education for all.