Earning an online Doctorate in Education seems like a logical last step for a professional educator who wishes to complete their training. However, until a decade ago, finding a fully online or even partially online degree program in the field was difficult. Now that technology has advanced, it is possible to earn a degree while working a full-time job and taking care of a family.
Students who are interested in an online education are generally working adults with a lot of responsibility and not enough time. They need a form of education that can work around their schedule, enabling them to limit their trips to campus or eliminate them completely. They also need a degree that is affordable enough; most students find that completing an online degree in education not only takes less time online but also costs less, making it an affordable option for most students.
Methodology
A lot of research was conducted in order to compile this list. It would not have been possible without the National Center for Education Statistics website and its publicly available College Navigator database. A group of 60 schools was initially identified by searching the term “online Doctorate in Education,” which served as the base reading for this ranking. They were then individually reviewed and ranked based on several factors, including tuition rates. The final 50 were chosen based on the school’s total estimated in-state graduate tuition cost for the entire program. They are listed below in descending order.
Ranking Low-Cost Doctorate in Education
50. Capella University
St. Paul, Minnesota
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Leadership for Higher Education Specialization
Capella University is an incredible place to earn an online Doctor of Philosophy in Education degree from, especially for educators who are interested in becoming leaders in the profession. This low-residency degree was developed for professionals who are fascinated with the theories and concepts that have grown the education field since the dawn of human civilization. Students will find that this degree requires just three residencies for graduation. A dissertation and a comprehensive exam are also required for this degree. The curriculum of this degree focuses on leadership and administration within the education field. Sample courses include Human Resources in Higher Education, Assessment in Higher Education, and Leadership in Higher Education. In addition to the Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Capella also offers an Online EdD program as well.
49. City University of Seattle
Seattle, Washington
Online Doctor of Education in Leadership
Tuition: $66,780
The online Doctorate in Education degree that is available from the City University of Seattle was designed for professionals who need a practically applied degree that will help them address the challenges facing education today. This degree comes with three concentrations: Organizational Leadership, Higher Educational Leadership, and Specialized Study. This program is available as a low-residency option; students must be able to come to campus three times during the course of their degree. This program focuses on research and application, making it a great choice for working educators. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 90 credit hours of coursework, a comprehensive final exam, and a dissertation. Sample courses include Strategic Thinking, Developing Leaders of the Future, and Ethical Organizational Leadership.
48. Ashford University
San Diego, California
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Tuition: $66,296
Ashford University confers an online Doctorate in Education degree that will provide students with the necessary scholarship skills to be a powerful voice in the field. This degree focuses on academic scholarship and research and was built to be taken on by passionate individuals. The degree is available entirely online with no residency requirements. Students will find that this degree is flexible; courses can be amended to help a student realize their career hopes and dreams in the education field. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 59 credit hours of coursework, a doctoral capstone project, and a final comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Governance and the Politics of Education, Diversity in Education, and History of Education and Social Change.
47. Rowan University
Camden, New Jersey
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Tuition: $63,000
The online Doctorate in Education degree available from Rowan University Global was designed to help students who work in higher education arrive at the degree that will amend itself to their will. This is a multi-disciplinary and research-focused degree. It was not meant for professionals who actively teach in the classroom; it is best suited for academics and researchers. Students will note that this degree does require an internship for graduation; it can be completed in their community. This program requires a minimum of 64 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Single Subject Study Design in Education, Mixed Methods Research in Education, and Survey Research Methods in Education.
46. Benedictine University
Lisle, Illinois
Online Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $62,130
Benedictine University is a mission-driven university that provides students with an online Doctorate in Education degree that they will find to be an exceptional practical program. This degree was designed for educators who are ready and willing to become leaders in the education field. This is an online, cohort program that was designed as an interdisciplinary program. Students will be able to complete their degree when and how it suits them, leading them to better careers in the future. This degree requires that students complete a minimum of 57 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Organization Development and Change, History and Trends in Education, and Strategic Marketing and Enrollment Management.
45. Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon
Online Doctor of Education in Adult and Higher Education
Tuition: $61,236
Oregon State University has developed an online Doctorate in Education degree for professionals who see it as their personal duty and right to work as educators for those who are adult students. This is a low-residency, cohort program; students will be required to complete two weekend residencies per term for the first two years of the program. There are two concentrations available with this degree: Community College Leadership and Leadership in Higher Education. Both are designed to provide students with a strong career focus. This degree requires that students complete a minimum of 114 credit hours of coursework, an internship, a thesis, and a comprehensive final written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Research Perspectives in Education, Four-Year Higher Education Research Issues, and Educational Finance.
44. Regent University
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Online Doctor of Education
Tuition: $58,125
The online Doctorate in Education degree available from Regent University is a research-oriented program designed for professionals who are ready to work at the highest levels of the field. This is a low-residency program that requires students attend campus once or twice a year for the duration of their degree. All other courses are available fully online, enabling a student to schedule their education around their obligations. This program has over a dozen concentrations, including Educational Technology and Online Learning, Higher Education Leadership and Management, and Advanced Educational Leadership. This degree requires a minimum of 75 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Advanced Research Design and Analysis, Analysis of Variance, and Regression and Correlation.
43. Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Leadership
Tuition: $55,560
Colorado State University confers an online Doctorate in Education degree that was built for researchers and academics all across the country. This program is available as a low-residency, cohort program for interested students. It is also a comprehensive curriculum; students will find that research plays just as big of a role as research and that while the program is evenly divided between the two, more weight is given to research and is shown by the school’s requirement that a student submits a paper to a publication for graduation. This degree also requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and oral and written final exams. Sample courses include Higher Education Finance, Foundations of Educational Research, and Higher Education Administration.
42. Samford University
Birmingham, Alabama
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $53,658
The online Doctorate in Education degree that is provided by Samford University was designed for students interested in becoming leaders and administrators in the field. This program is offered as a low-residency, cohort program; students will need to attend campus a few times a year in order to meet the residency requirements online. Students will need to remember that this degree requires an Educational Specialist degree prior to applying for this program; there are no exceptions. This program requires that students complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
41. Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania
Online Executive Doctorate in Education Leadership
Tuition: $52,110
Gwynedd Mercy University provides students with an online Doctorate in Education degree that is perfect for advanced careers in research or policy analysis. Students will note that this is an executive program that was designed to be completed in less than three years. As an accelerated degree, students must keep in mind the rigorous requirements of the degree. This degree is also low-residency; students will need to attend campus at least three times in order to graduate. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 54 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, a comprehensive final exam, and a dissertation. Sample courses include Technology and Program Evaluation, The Ethics of Educational Leadership and Policy, and Cross-Cultural Perspectives and Educational Leadership.
40. St. John’s University
Queens, New York
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Literacy
Tuition: $51,660
Students at St. John’s University are treated to the chance to complete an online Doctorate in Education degree. This program is offered to students who are interested in pursuing literacy as their terminal education. This degree is available online and can be completed in less than three years when students choose to study full-time. This is a rigorous program that is focused on literary research and theory, enabling students to teach others the importance of the field. This degree requires a minimum of 42 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exit exam. Sample courses include Special Topics in Literacy, Foundations of Literacy Inquiry and Professionalism, and Literacy Leadership.
39. The University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Specialization in Teachers, Schools, and Society
Tuition: $47,938
The University of Florida confers an online Doctorate in Education that was designed for practical professionals; it is not a research degree. Students will find that this is a low-residency, cohort program designed for practicing educators who are interested in learning how to build a community of education. Students will focus on their online coursework, only attending campus for exams and the defense of their dissertation. Students will find that the program is extensive and rigorous, focusing on the different practical applications of theories and concepts. This degree requires a minimum of 90 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a set of qualifying comprehensive exams. More information on this degree and its courses can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
38. Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Online Doctorate of Education with an Emphasis in Special Education
Tuition: $46,800
Students at Ball State University are offered the chance to complete an online Doctorate in Education degree that focuses on special education. This is a great degree for students who are interested in becoming leaders in the special education world. This program comes with six different concentrations, including Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism, General Special Education, and Teach and Learning: Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. This is a low-residency program; students must take two courses on campus to meet this requirement. Other requirements for this degree include a minimum of 90 credit hours of coursework beyond a bachelor’s degree as well as a dissertation and a comprehensive final exit exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
37. Saint Peter’s University
Jersey City, New Jersey
Online Doctorate of Education in Higher Education
Tuition: $46,512
Saint Peter’s University provides students with an online Doctorate in Education degree that has a stated focus in higher education. It was developed for mid-career professionals in educational settings that want to ascend to leadership roles. This degree is offered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. Students who have time constraints will find this to be an effective program as they can complete it with no interruption to their life. This degree has a focus on the administrative tasks of maintaining a college or university and would be perfect for students who wish to become presidents of a higher education institution. This degree requires a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a final comprehensive exam. Sample courses include Ethical Foundations and Social Responsibility, Historical Trends in Higher Education, and Student Development and Programming.
36. Hampton University
Hampton, Virginia
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management
Tuition: $45,870
The online doctorate in education degree that is offered at Hampton University was designed for professionals who are interested in becoming academic leaders in the field. This is an accelerated program that comes with four specializations: Higher Education, Pre-K-12 Education, STEM Leadership and Special Education. Ambitious students can complete the degree in less than three years; course sessions last just nine weeks instead of the normal 16-week terms. The program has a stated focus in applied practice, but a dissertation is necessary for graduation. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 66 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. More information on this degree as well as its program requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
35. The University of Alabama
Birmingham, Alabama
Online Doctor of Education in Higher Education – Administration Executive Cohort Track
Tuition: $45,804
The University of Alabama is home to an exceptional online Doctorate in Education degree. This program was designed for students interested in an accelerated Ed.D. program that will help them meet their goal of becoming an administrator or leader in the education field. This program was designed as a low-residency, cohort program that requires a few campus residencies in order to meet the requirements for education. Students will find that there is a focus on the different aspects of how to run a higher education institution, mirroring a business degree in the types of courses that are available. This program requires a minimum of 54 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final written and oral exam. Sample courses include Student Affairs, Law in Higher Education, and Orientation in Higher Education.
34. Mercer University
Macon, Georgia
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $45,423
The online Doctorate in Education degree that is conferred by Mercer University was designed for professionals who are interested in becoming leaders in colleges, universities, and other educational settings. There are two tracks in this program: Higher Education Leadership, P-12 School Leadership. This is a hybrid, cohort program; students will need to attend campus every weekend during their courses. This program can be completed in about four years by part-time students; full-time students will be able to graduate in three years. This degree requires a minimum of 90 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Higher Education Student Affairs, Higher Education Academic Affairs, and Policy and Politics in Higher Education.
33. The University of New England
Portland, Maine
Online Doctor of Education in Transformative Leadership
Tuition: $45,390
The University of New England confers a cohort online Doctorate in Education degree that has no residency requirements. It is a three-year program that will provide students with a look in Transformative Leadership that will help them in their goals and dreams for their career. This program is currently ranked as one of the best online programs for graduate education by U.S. News and World Report. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 51 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final written and oral exam. Sample courses include Preparation for Transformative Leadership, Interpreting Empirical Data, and Technology and Organizational Transformation.
32. St. Cloud State University
St. Cloud, Minnesota
Online Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration
Tuition: $45,021
The students at St. Cloud State University are offered the chance to complete an online Doctorate in Education degree. This program is offered 100 percent online with no residency requirements. All courses are available in either the eight-week or 16-week term schedule, making it possible for students to fast-track their degree. Students can also take part of a study abroad trip to Italy or take part in the school’s leadership institute. This degree requires that students complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a comprehensive final oral and written exam, and a dissertation. More information on this degree, its graduation requirements and a list of course offerings can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
31. Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $42,777
Central Michigan University confers an online Doctorate in Education degree that focuses on educational leadership that will provide students with a career path to become a leader in either K-12 or higher education settings. This is a hybrid, cohort program; students will be required to attend campus for at least a portion of the semester in order to meet residency requirements. Students will be able to choose between specializing in K-12 Leadership or Higher Educational Leadership. Please note that field work may be required for different specializations. This degree requires a minimum of 72 credit hours of coursework, field-based experiences, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation. Sample courses include Ethical Leadership, Organizational Culture and Change in Educational Institutions, and Organizational Theory in Educational Institutions.
30. Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
Online Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in K-12 Leadership
Tuition: $39,000
The online Doctorate in Education degree that is available from Grand Canyon University was designed for professionals who need access to an accelerated program. This degree focuses on K-12 leadership, enabling students to study the history and politics of the field. As a low-residency program, students will be required to complete time on campus for graduation. Students will find that this degree focuses on the different aspects of running K-12 educational institutions. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a final exam. Sample courses include Approaches to Research Design and Data Analysis, Leading Across Cultures, and Foundations for Research.
29. Texas Tech University
Tyler, Texas
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction, Concentration in Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education
Tuition: $37,329
Texas Tech University provides an affordable online Doctorate in Education that was designed for professionals who are interested in becoming professionals in the field. This degree is offered as a hybrid, cohort model; students must attend two-week summer intensives every year for the first two years. This is a rigorous course of study. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 99 credit hours for graduation as well as a dissertation and a comprehensive final exit exam. A list of sample courses, along with program requirements, can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
28. The University of Nebraska at Lincoln
Lincoln, Nebraska
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration, Educational Leadership and Higher Education Specialization
Tuition: $37,138
The online Doctorate of Education provided by the University of Nebraska at Lincoln is offered to students who have an interest in becoming leaders in the field. This degree comes with three concentrations: Educational Administration, Teacher Education, and Special Education and Communication Disorders. Each specialization was built for practicing professionals who need only the advanced education in order to move up in their careers. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 90 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exit exam. More information can be learned about the program and its requirements by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
27. The University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, Colorado
Online Doctorate of Education in Innovation and Education Reform Cognate
Tuition: $37,120
The University of Northern Colorado confers an affordable Doctorate in Education online degree that can be completed in four years. This degree is offered with an Innovation and Education Reform Emphasis, making it a great choice for policy makers and change agents. This is a low-residency, cohort program that requires five-day residencies every summer for the first three summers as well as a trip to campus to defend the dissertation. This degree requires a minimum of 64 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Literacy as Social Practice, History of Education Reform and Change, and Social Justice in Educational Reform.
26. The University at Buffalo
Buffalo, New York
The online Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum Instruction and the Science of Learning
Tuition: $35,864
The University at Buffalo delivers an online Doctorate in Education that was built for professionals who are interested in moving into leadership positions. This degree was designed with five concentrations in mind, including Elementary Education, English Education, Mathematics Education, Reading Education, and Science Education. This degree offers students the chance to take part in cutting-edge research as well as put into practice the theories and concepts learned in class. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 62 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
25. Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Tuition: $35,700
Liberty University confers a low-cost Doctorate in Education online degree that can be completed in just three years. This is a 100 percent online course of study with no residency requirements. Students will find that there are four specializations available with this degree: Curriculum and Instruction, Organizational Leadership, Special Education, and Instructional Design and Technology. Courses focus on the management and administration of the educational setting. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a set of comprehensive final exams, and a dissertation. More information on this degree and its course offerings can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
24. The University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $33,703
Students at the University of South Carolina are offered the chance to complete an online Doctorate in Education that can take just three years to complete. This degree is informed by the Carnegie Project on Education Doctorate Consortium. It is perfect for professional educators who wish to become leaders in curriculum and instruction. This degree is offered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. Students will find that this is a diverse curriculum with a lot to offer. This degree requires 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a final comprehensive exam. Sample courses include Advanced Study of Diversity and Curriculum, Instructional Design and Assessment, and Principles of Curriculum Construction.
23. Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration
Tuition: $33,264
Indiana State University confers a low-cost online Doctorate in Education that was designed to provide students with the chance to complete either a specialization in School Administration or Leadership in Higher Education. This degree was designed as a 100 percent online course of study; there are no residency requirements. This program has a focus on administration and leadership, enabling working students to use the knowledge they’ve learned in their current careers. This degree requires a minimum of 66 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Public School Finance, Educational Facility Planning, and Philosophy of Education.
22. Wilmington University
Wilmington, Delaware
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $32,232
The online Doctorate of Education that is available from Wilmington University was designed for scholar-practitioners who are interested in completing a degree accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. This degree is offered to students as a three-year program with three specializations: Teacher Leader, School Leader, District Leader. Students will note that field experiences are required for this degree and will take place in a student’s community. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, the completion of the School District Leaders Licensure Assessment, and an E-Folio. Sample courses include Action Research, Leadership for Innovation, and Curriculum Theory and Practice.
21. The University of South Alabama
Mobile, Alabama
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $31,500
The University of South Alabama confers an online Doctorate of Education degree that was designed to be earned as an online, cohort program designed for executive students. This program was built for full-time study by full-time working students. Students will find that some residencies are required but are kept to a minimum for their convenience. This degree offers two specializations: Higher Education Leadership and P-12 Leadership. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Human Relations in Higher Education, Higher Education Finance, and Advanced Organizational Theory.
20. East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $31,488
Students at East Carolina University are offered the chance to complete an online Doctorate of Education degree that focuses on how the K-20 environment works. This degree is offered to working professionals who are interested in advancing their study of the field. Students must hold an administration license in their field in order to qualify for this program. This program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Educational Planning, History and Philosophy of Higher Education, and Finance in Higher Education.
19. Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, Tennessee
Online Doctor of Education, Curriculum and Instruction Concentration
Tuition: $31,350
Carson-Newman University confers an online Doctorate of Education degree for the teacher-practitioner. This degree was designed as an online degree that has no residency requirements; it can be completed in three years. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 57 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Critical Analysis and Research Design, The Teacher as Leader, and Evaluation for Continuous Improvement.
18. The University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Online Doctor of Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $30,000
The online Doctorate of Education degree delivered by the University of Louisiana at Monroe was designed as a research-based degree with practical application. This is a wholly online course of study; there are no residency requirements. Students will not that this degree has no directed electives and was designed as sequential program. This degree requires a minimum of 70 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive written exit exam. Sample courses include Applied Statistical Analysis, Instructional Design and Technology Integration, and Education for Diversity in a Global Society.
17. Indiana University
Bloomington, Indiana
Online Doctor of Education in Literacy, Culture, and Language
Tuition: $29,899
Indiana University offers students the chance to complete an online Doctorate of Education degree. This is a 100 percent online course of study; there are no residency requirements. In fact, online students have access to an accelerated program that is not available on campus. This program must be undertaken in the fall and is offered as a cohort course of study. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive set of exams. Sample courses include Theoretical Issues in the Study of Language and Literacies, Research Seminar in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education, and Strategies for Educational Inquiry.
16. The University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Tuition: $28,308
Students enrolled at the University of Kentucky can complete an online Doctorate of Education degree that was designed as a scholar-practitioner degree. This program focuses on the dissertation that a student will give, providing them with a variety of courses prior to the dissertation that will help them focus on theory. This is an online, cohort program that has no residency requirements. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 42 credit hours of coursework for graduation as well as a dissertation and an oral defense. Sample courses include Foundations of Inquiry, Knowledge Base, and Leadership in Educational Organizations.
15. Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $27,940
Texas A&M University is home to an online Doctorate of Education degree that will provide students with the necessary education to become leaders in the P-12 educational settings around the country. This is an online, cohort mode of study; there are no residency requirements. It is estimated that students will be able to complete this degree in less than four years. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 64 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Educator as Learner, History of American Education, and Leadership Development Training.
14. Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $27,247
The online Doctorate of Education degree that is available from Lamar University was designed for working professionals who are interested in earning a degree in just for years. This is a fully online course of study that has no residency requirements. The program has a concentration in Global Educational Leadership and was created for educational professionals from a variety of settings. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a comprehensive final exam, and a dissertation. Sample courses include Dynamics of Leadership, Foundations of Distance Education, and Global Communication.
13. Southeastern University
Lakeland, Florida
Online Doctor of Education, Curriculum and Instruction Specialization
Tuition: $27,000
Southeastern University confers an online Doctorate of Education degree that can be completed in fours yeas and will provide students with the chance to move into leadership and administration. This degree comes with two concentrations: Curriculum and Instruction or Organizational Leadership. This program is taught with a Christ-centered mentality and will be of special benefit to professionals who wish to teach in faith-based settings. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation. Sample courses include Public Policy, Program Evaluation, and Principles of Leadership and Ethics.
12. William Carey University
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Online Doctorate of Education
Tuition: $26,463
The online Doctorate of Education degree available from William Carey University is a program that focuses on providing teacher-educators with the advanced knowledge they need in order to become leaders and administrators in their chosen field. This program is offered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. Courses are held in truncated five-week formats, making it possible for students to complete the degree in four years when they study part-time. This degree requires 63 credit hours of coursework (30 hours of an EdS and then 33 hours past that for the EdD). More information on this degree and its courses can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
11. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Online Doctor of Education in Teacher Leadership
Tuition: $26,460
Kennesaw State University delivers an online Doctorate of Education degree that was designed for educator-leaders. This program will result in a student receiving a Service Certificate in Teacher Leadership. Students who take on this degree will realize that this is a hybrid program; students will need to take residence on campus for a minimum of six months in order to qualify for graduation. Other requirements include 60 credit hours of coursework, a residency project, and a capstone portfolio. More information on this degree as well as course offerings can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
10. Delta State University
Cleveland, Mississippi
Online Doctor of Education in Professional Studies
Tuition: $25,354
Students enrolled at Delta State University are offered the chance to complete an online Doctorate of Education degree that comes with three tracks: Higher Education, Educational Leadership, and Curriculum and Instruction. This program is offered to students with a background in education; at least five years in an educational setting is required for this program. This degree will require that students complete a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation and defense, and a teacher portfolio. More information on this degree and its course offerings can be fond by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
9. The University of Wyoming
Laramie, Wyoming
Online Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration
Tuition: $25,325
The University of Wyoming confers an online Doctorate of Education degree that can be completed in just four years. This degree was designed to prepare students for leadership positions in all educational settings, regardless if it is in the public or private sector. Students will find that the curriculum focuses on administrative tasks as much as it does theory and concepts, making it a great blend of education. This degree requires a minimum of 75 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Leadership Development, Issues in Higher Education, and Leader as Change Agent.
8. Northwest Nazarene University
Nampa, Idaho
Online Doctor of Education
Tuition: $23,830
The online Doctorate of Education degree that is offered by Northwest Nazarene University was designed for students interested in educational leadership. This school confers both the Doctor of Education and the Doctor of Philosophy in Education; both are available online and do not have residency requirements. This program can be completed in less than 26 months when students choose to study full-time. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 62 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a set of comprehensive exams. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
7. The University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, Kentucky
Online Doctorate of Educational Leadership
Tuition: $23,250
The University of the Cumberlands offers an online Doctorate of Education degree to educators who are serious about continuing to advance education in all of its forms to their students. This program is delivered as a wholly online program; there are no campus residency requirements. Students will find that the degree can be completed in less than three years. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a set of comprehensive exams. Sample courses include The Change Process, Higher Education in America, and Teaching and Learning Online.
6. The University of Missouri
Columbia, Missouri
Online Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $23,155
The online Doctorate of Education degree that is offered at the University of Missouri is the perfect choice for working professionals. This is a low-residency degree; students will be expected to attend campus in order to meet the requirements for graduation. Students will find that the curriculum focuses on educational policy and leadership theory. This degree requires a minimum of 46 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a final exam. Sample courses include Educational Leadership Inquiry, Organizational Analysis for Educational Leadership, and Leadership Theory and Practice.
5. Western Illinois University
Macomb, Illinois
Online Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $22,418
Western Illinois University confers an online Doctorate of Education degree that is provided as a cohort program. Since 2001, the school has provided students with an exceptional online degree that comes with two options: PreK-12 and Higher Education. This program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final written exam. Sample courses include Facilitating a Vision of Excellence, Research in Schools and Communities, and Politics of Education.
4. The University of West Georgia
Carrollton, Georgia
Online Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration
Tuition: $21,053
Students at the University of West Georgia will have the chance to complete an online doctorate of education degree that will provide them with the education and training necessary to achieve their goals of becoming leaders and administrators in the field. This degree is offered entirely online; the only residency requirement comes with orientation on campus. This residency lasts three days. All other coursework is available online. This program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a final exam. Sample courses include Enrollment Management, Applied Research Practices, and History of Higher Education.
3. The University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $19,478
The University of Arkansas confers an online Doctorate of Education degree that is delivered to students who are ready to become principals, superintendents, and presidents of educational settings. The degree is currently ranked by U.S. News and World Report. This is a low-residency, cohort program that requires a minimum of three intensive weekends on campus. The program was designed to be completed in three years. Students will be expected to complete 42 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
2. New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Online Educational Leadership Doctoral Program
Tuition: $18,995
The online Doctorate of Education degree that is conferred by New Mexico State University was designed for students that are interested in becoming leaders in the unique educational setting that is the United States-Mexico Border. This degree is rigorous and comes with three concentrations: PK-12 Educational Administration, Community College Administration, and University Administration. This program requires a minimum of 63 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Concepts of Leadership in Education, Foundations of Educational Administration, and Higher Education Law.
1. Appalachian State University
Boone, North Carolina
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $15,960
Appalachian State University confers an online Doctorate of Education degree that will complete a professional’s journey into leadership and administrative roles. This program was designed as a wholly online or hybrid course of study. Students will find that there are four concentrations available online, including Educational Administration, Instructional Technology Leadership, and Higher Education. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 60 credit hours, a dissertation, and a capstone portfolio. Sample courses include Organizational and Systems Theory, Leadership in Organizations, and Writing for the Professional Educator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Affordable Online Doctorate in Education?
- Education Administrator
- Emergency Management Executive
- Field District School Superintendent
- Chief Academic Officer
- Director of Human Resources
- High School Principal
- College or University Professor
- Chief Financial Officer
- Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator
- Chief Learning Officer
- Director of Student Services
- Training and Development Manager
- Survey Researchers
- College President
- Executive Director of a Non-profit Organization
How Much Can You Earn in this Field?
Professionals who hold a Doctorate in Education will find that the average starting salary range for them is between $65,000 to $85,000. The average salary range for a well-established individual is between $85,000 to $105,000. The range accounts for all positions, even those found outside of the educational setting; it does not include any additional forms of compensation that may arise from a job outside of education, including C-level positions in the business world.
The most common career choice remains that of a college or university professor with this degree. Salaries for this position vary with the subjects being taught, but the current range is between $80,000 to $110,000. Another interesting position is that of a college president, who can make well over $500,000, depending on the size of their school. Private school college presidents tend to make over $100,000 more than their public college counterparts; this makes those positions even more competitive.
What are the Various Disciplines of Education?
Education is the science of learning as much as it is about the different subjects that are taught in schools across the nation. Professionals must be trained in how to best help different demographics learn subjects that they need for their educational or work needs. It is an important position that incorporates a variety of disciplines in order to make it work.
The most common disciplines in education are psychology, sociology, and education itself. These are the main tentpoles in the field because the psychology of a person has everything to do with how they learn. The subjects are also useful for educators because it helps them organize a lesson and teach it effectively.
Another important discipline that has begun to play a large role in the field is that of technology. Since so much of the education field is incorporating technology in the form of virtual portals as well as online examinations and tests, it is important that educators have a good grasp on how technology is changing, for better and for worse, how people learn.
Secondary disciplines include curriculum, instruction, administration, and leadership. That’s because at the highest levels of education, the design of education as well as how it is administered becomes very important. Students who reach the doctorate of education stage often wish to become leaders and administrators in the field, making these disciplines critical for their education.
Of course, education wouldn’t be complete without the actual subjects that are taught in the classroom. These would be considered sub-disciplines or concentrations for professionals because they will choose to specialize in one or more area of education the further their education goes. Subjects include astronomy, chemistry, history, law, literature and more, just to name a few.
Are Field Experiences Required for a Doctorate of Education?
No, most programs do not require field experiences or practicums for students earning a Doctorate of Education. This is because it is widely considered that a student who was accepted into the program has the required experience in the field in order to be able to keep up with the curriculum while also master new concepts. However, some students may find that field experiences may be required for them.
Some students are accepted into the program without previous experience in the education field. They may be switching careers or just have found a new interest in becoming an educator. Whatever the case may be, some schools will require them to take on a field experience as a prerequisite for entering the program.
Most doctoral programs in education require a candidate to hold a teaching license in good standing in their home state prior to consideration for the program. However, many doctoral degrees focus on leadership and administration, not teaching, so it may be possible to earn a seat in a program without a teacher license.
What is the Difference Between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D.?
The difference between a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. is quite simple, but it does bear explaining, especially since students need to know which type of degree is better for them and their chosen career path. Because the degrees can lead to different career paths, a student will be best served by being able to tell them apart prior to applying.
A doctor of philosophy in education is an academic degree. It focuses on the research done in the field as well as planning ways for practicing educators to become more effective in the classroom. It also may have a focus on curriculum and instruction, design, leadership, or administration.
A Doctor of Education is a practical, professional degree. This degree was designed for long-time educators who are serious about moving into leadership and administration roles. The programs generally focus on leadership theory and practice and may include general applications of academic research.
The interesting thing about this degree is that students may find overlap in terms of their career choices. While most doctoral programs are quite specific about their curriculum, the truth is that in the education field, researchers are practitioners and practitioners are researchers.
Education is a critical weapon that students have at their disposal. Depending on their passion and drive, they can either become legendary teachers or leaders in the educational setting, making it possible for students from all different walks of life to have the same knowledge and wisdom. This makes it easier for them to move forward and upward in life, and that is generally all an educator needs in order to feel fulfilled. Now that a variety of online doctorate in education degrees have become available, it is time for the ambitious student to start searching for their perfect program.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the Top 50 Most Affordable Doctorate in Education Online.
Other Rankings of Interest:
20 Most Affordable Ph.D in Special Education Online
20 Most Affordable Ph.D in Early Childhood Education Online
20 Most Affordable Ph.D in Elementary Education Online
10 Most Affordable Ph.D. in English Language Learning Online
The 50 Most Affordable Colleges with the Best Return
25 Most Affordable Public Colleges with Online Doctoral Degrees
25 Most Affordable Private Nonprofit Colleges with Online Doctoral Degrees
The 20 Most Affordable Online Colleges
25 Most Affordable Christian Colleges (non-Catholic) with Online Doctoral Degrees
25 Most Affordable Catholic Colleges with Online Doctoral Degrees
The Best Colleges
The Lowest Costs
The Highest Returns