phd in educational leadership salary

8 Careers You Can Pursue with a Doctorate in Education

Industry Advice Education

By earning a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree, you’re preparing yourself for a career with lasting impact—on students, on the future of a college or university, on your community, or on the trajectory of a nonprofit trying to improve other communities locally and abroad.

You’re also positioning yourself for advancement. Professionals who earn an EdD are qualified for roles leading and operating schools at the elementary, high school, or college level. They learn to lead in a way that can be transferred to the front of a classroom or at the ground level of an organization.

An EdD signals to employers that you’re a thought leader; that you’re someone who’s demonstrated the capacity to identify a problem, examine issues from multiple perspectives, and offer relevant insights for practical solutions. With your doctorate in hand, you’re prepared to take on a leadership role across a variety of industries.

Here’s a look at the types of positions EdD graduates pursue and eight of the top careers available in the field. 

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What Type of Positions Do EdD Students Pursue?

Northeastern’s EdD students cultivate their leadership skills in the program by integrating practice and insights from experienced faculty and high-achieving peers . They come from diverse fields, including business, criminal justice, healthcare, military, human services, and the nonprofit sector. Their job titles and careers are just as diverse, with students working as policymakers, systems analysts, and administrative leaders within higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies.

Top Careers for Doctor of Education Graduates

1. college president.

Average Annual Salary: $272,203

Presidents are the top leaders of a college or university. They establish and execute on their school’s strategic vision, spearhead fundraising, attend student events, and deliver speeches to a variety of constituents, such as donors, lawmakers, government, and faculty, to raise the profile of the institution both locally and abroad. They also collaborate with senior administrators, faculty, and staff to devise new ways to support students and improve their learning environment while maintaining high academic standards. Depending on the type of public or private institution they lead, college presidents can earn impressive seven-figure salaries . 

2. Chief Learning Officer

Average Annual Salary: $152,225

In education, top executive roles include positions like “chief learning officer”—a senior-level professional who develops and drives strategies that help his or her college or university meet critical business goals. Chief learning officers (CLOs) focus on creating strategies for training, learning, and development, and typically oversee an institute’s latest technologies, such as its online learning platform.

Average Annual Salary: $148,783

A provost—or vice president, depending on the college or university—is a senior-level academic administrator who tends to be second in command after the president. Provosts work closely with deans and department heads, and help determine their institution’s academic goals and priorities, as well as how to allocate the resources necessary to support those initiatives. They often oversee daily operations and work to hire and retain a diverse faculty. 

4. School Superintendent

Average Annual Salary: $116,931

Superintendents are the top executives of a school district. They’re responsible for establishing and overseeing their district’s budget, staffing, infrastructure, and spending. Superintendents collaborate closely with a school board to develop and implement new policies and programs in line with the district’s short- and long-term goals, as well as allocate the financial and human resources necessary to achieve the district’s overarching vision.

5. Elementary, Middle, and High School Principal

Average Annual Salary: $95,310

Principals oversee the daily operations of an elementary, middle, or high school. They hire teachers and staff, manage the budget, and enforce disciplinary rules when necessary. Principals also develop and assess educational programming aimed at achieving student learning outcomes, all while striving to create and maintain a positive learning environment. More than 11,000 principal positions are expected to emerge by 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics .

A principal’s salary might differ depending on whether he or she works at an elementary, middle, or high school. The mean wages for principals at each level, according to PayScale are:

• Elementary School : $81,095
• Middle School : $87,989
• High School : $92,197

6. Academic Dean

Average Annual Salary: $90,339  

Deans work at the senior administrative level of a college or university. The role varies depending on the institution, but deans often manage faculty and staff, set academic goals, implement strategic planning, oversee their department’s budget, help fundraise, support research initiatives, and foster student development. Some departments you might find them in are:

• Admissions : Those working in admissions develop and lead recruitment initiatives for a college or university. They evaluate applications, decide the number of students who should be admitted to the school, who those students should be, and communicate with prospects and their families.
• Research : A dean of research often oversees faculty and collaborates with them to create a strategy for developing short- and long-term research initiatives. They also work to secure research funding, oversee the research budget, and establish key industry partnerships.
• Student Affairs : The student affairs office typically oversees a variety of different departments, such as residence life, athletics, student support services, and diversity and inclusion. A dean of student affairs typically establishes and evaluates nonacademic programs that foster and enrich the student experience, as well as handle disciplinary issues and communicate with students’ parents or legal guardians.
• Advancement : The advancement office—also known as “development” or “alumni relations” depending on the school—is responsible for securing funding for the college or university from potential donors, including alumni, government policymakers, corporations, and foundations. They nurture and maintain those relationships, ensuring all gifts received are being used as intended.

7. Professor

Average Annual Salary: $78,470

Postsecondary teachers, or professors, work at the college or university level, developing course curricula, instructing students in a specific area of study, and assessing their progress. When they’re not teaching, professors are often conducting research, writing scholarly papers, or attending conferences.

Professors’ salaries vary based on where they are on the tenure track and their area of expertise. The median salary for a professor based on rank, according to PayScale, is:

• Instructor : $49,510
• Lecturer: $51,101
• Assistant Professor : $67,021
• Associate Professor : $76,250
• Professor : $87,018

Salaries range further depending on the professor’s focus. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the top 10 highest-paying subjects—and what those subjects offer in terms of average annual wage—are:

• Law : $111,140
• Engineering : $101,720
• Economics : $101,720
• Health Specialties : $97,370
• Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Science : $90,860
• Physics : $90,800
• Architecture : $86,980
• Forestry and Conservation Science : $86,900
• Agricultural Sciences : $84,640
• Business : $83,960

8. Executive Director of Education

Average Annual Salary: $73,640

Executive directors are often the senior leaders of a nonprofit organization or business. They work closely with a board of directors but are the ones who make the daily operational decisions. Executive directors hire and manage staff, handle external relations, engage volunteers, oversee the budget—including all fundraising initiatives—and develop policies, programs, and strategies that guide the organization’s mission and purpose. 

What Can You Do with a Doctorate in Education from Northeastern?

When you earn your EdD from Northeastern , you’re not only advancing your own work, you’re joining a top-tier university and pursuing a rigorous education with an entrepreneurial orientation toward making our world a better place. You’re joining a vast network of students and alumni in the EdD, which spans more than 2,000 professionals across many domains of education. You’re gaining access to engaging faculty who understand the importance of professional experiences in a growing leadership capacity, and who are prepared to offer you personal attention to support your professional development.

With your EdD, you can make a difference in the lives of children, communities, and organizations, as you transform your problem of practice into a plan for change and action.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in September of 2017. It has since been updated for accuracy and relevance. 

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The median annual salary for professional degree holders is $97,000. (BLS, 2020)

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Ed.D. Career & Salary Guide: What Can You Do With a Doctor of Education Degree?

Wondering whether an Ed.D. is worth the investment? Use this doctoral guide to explore real-world career advice & salary resources. Learn about top Ed.D. job titles . Consider possible Doctor of Education salary benefits . Compare Ed.D. vs. M.Ed. salaries and Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. vs. Ed.S. salaries . And decide whether a doctorate in education justifies the expense .

What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Education?

Consider earning a doctorate in education in order to qualify for educational leadership positions in PreK-12 schools & districts, university administration, and non-academic fields.

• Purpose: The Ed.D. is a practice-based degree, which means it’s focused on real-world applications of learning & research. You’ll be expected to tackle current educational challenges, explore ways to create change, and implement innovative solutions.
• Benefits: Some leaders earn the Ed.D. in order to apply for certain job titles ; others are interested in potential salary benefits . But you can also use a doctorate to deepen your knowledge of the field, network with educational peers, and become a more thoughtful leader.

Note: If you want to become a tenured faculty member in academia, a Ph.D. in Education may be a better bet.

State-Specific Ed.D. Career & Salary Advice

Looking for localized advice? In each one of our Ed.D. state guides , you’ll find a comprehensive career section. This contains a discussion of:

• Employment hotspots for PreK-20 educational leaders in your state
• State salary reports & resources (e.g. public school salary databases)
• Local educational leadership job boards (e.g. openings for district-level and school-level administrators)

Top Ed.D. Job Titles

Prek-12 ed.d. careers.

• Superintendent
• District-Level Educational Leader
• Director of Education
• Teacher-Leader
• Instructional Coordinator
• Curriculum Specialist

Higher Education Ed.D. Careers

• University/College President
• University Administrator
• Adjunct Professor

Non-Academic Ed.D. Careers

• Public Policy Analyst
• Education Lobbyist
• Education Consultant
• Education Researcher
• Teaching Coach
• Director of a Research Center
• C.E.O. of an Educational Organization or Company

Note: This is just a sample of Ed.D. job opportunities! For more ideas, check out the careers section in your chosen Ed.D. specialty/subject (e.g. Educational Technology, Early Childhood Education, Counseling & Psychology, Higher Education, etc.). And if you’re interested in college-level teaching, check out our guide to becoming a professor .

Salary Benefits of Earning a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Degree

Ed.d. salaries: what to know.

Salaries for Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) graduates are heavily reliant on circumstances:

• Top-level educational leadership positions like Superintendent, Director of Education, or University President will usually require a doctorate. These kinds of jobs tend to pay graduates well.
• But the Ed.D. is often an “optional” degree in the field of education—many employers are happy to consider candidates with an M.Ed. or Ed.S. and appropriate certification/licensure.

So you’ll need to do some digging to find out whether the doctorate in education will actually lead to a salary bump in your field. Wage numbers will also depend on your location (e.g. city vs. rural), job title, and day-to-day leadership responsibilities.

Ed.D. Salary Data

For Ed.D. salary data, have a look at these resources from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). We particularly love the employment & wage maps—regions with the highest annual mean wages are shaded in dark blue.

• Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary
• Education Administrators, Postsecondary
• Education Administrators, All Other
• Instructional Coordinators
• Training & Development Managers

You may wish to compare these educational leadership salary numbers with:

• Payscale’s cumulative data for Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Degree Salaries . Payscale also allows you to view salary data by job title (e.g. Elementary School Principal vs. School Superintendent vs. Higher Education Administration ).
• The AASA’s Superintendents Salary and Benefits Survey, which is published with a summary of major findings in the AASA’s Research Papers section.

State-Specific Ed.D. Salary Data

Interested in state-specific data? Use the BLS’s section on State Occupational Employment & Wage Estimates .

• Choose your state.
• Select your job category. Educational administrator & specialist jobs (e.g. School Psychologist) can be found under “Management Occupations.”
• Find your job title. Beside each entry, BLS provides data on mean hourly wages and annual mean wages.

If you’re in PreK-12 realms, you can also explore salary schedules for your district (e.g. Salary Schedules for LACOE Employees ) and possibly your state (e.g. North Carolina Department of Public Instruction: Compensation for Public School Employees ). In addition, our Ed.D. state guides have lots of local salary advice.

Ed.D. vs. Master of Education (M.Ed.) Salary

M.ed. salary data.

An M.Ed. or a relevant master’s degree is usually the baseline qualification for educational leadership positions at the school level (e.g. Principal, Instructional Coordinator, Curriculum Developer, etc.). Employers will also be interested in your work experience and any necessary licenses or certifications.

• Principal Salaries: For ballpark salary figures, take a look at Payscale’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) Salaries . It includes numbers for leadership positions such as Assistant Principal and Elementary School Principal.
• Teacher Leadership Salaries: If you’re a teacher, check out the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) Teacher Contract Database . It contains salary data on 145+ of the largest school districts in all 50 states. 88% of these districts offer additional pay to teachers who have a master’s degree.

Potential Ed.D. Salary Increases

A doctorate in education may lead to an increase in salary for educational leaders—it depends on the job, choice of degree subject, and your location. For example:

• A graduate with an Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction and limited work experience may have to compete with seasoned M.Ed. candidates for the same jobs & salaries.
• But a doctoral graduate with an Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education will be able to demand a hefty salary from hiring committees.

In the PreK-12 realm, salary policies can vary from district to district. However, a number of places will reward you for the Ed.D. For instance, in North Carolina, a doctorate and advanced certification are often required for the highest pay levels for public school employees. Check with your local district.

Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. vs. Ed.S. Salary

Ed.s. salary data.

We explore the ins & outs of the Education Specialist degree in our guide to Ed.S. vs. Ed.D. Programs .

• The Ed.S. is often set up to help students achieve specific leadership certifications & licenses (e.g. Principal, Superintendent, School Psychologist, etc.).
• With these qualifications in hand, you’ll often be able to earn similar salary numbers to an Ed.D. graduate.
• However, name recognition can vary from region to region. In some areas, the Ed.D. may have more “clout” than an Ed.S.

Payscale has a section on Education Specialist Salaries , but it’s pretty broad. You’ll have more luck if you look at district & state salary schedules. For example, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction: Compensation for Public School Employees contains a category for Advanced (Sixth Year) candidates.

Ph.D. in Education Salary Data

If you’re in any doubt about which degree to pick, check out our guide to Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. in Education Programs . You’ll notice that most Ph.D. graduates end up in academia or high-level research positions. So you can’t really compare Ed.D. and Ph.D. salaries—it’s like comparing apples to oranges.

The BLS provides detailed wage data on Education Teachers, Postsecondary . Mean wages tend to be best in New England, California and nearby states, the DC area, and a few states in the south. Keep in mind that the cost of living in many of those areas can also be high.

Other useful sources of higher education salaries include:

• Higher Ed: CUPA-HR Salary Data
• AAUP Faculty Compensation Survey
• Chronicle of Higher Education Salary Data

Is a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Worth the Investment?

• Cost-Benefit Analysis: The cost of a doctorate in education should be weighed with potential salary increases and opportunities for promotion. If an Ed.D. can help you qualify for your dream position, then it’s an obvious pick. But you may find that a master’s degree will work just fine.
• Perception in Your Field: For example, a Ph.D. in Education is the standard requirement for academic positions—if you’re applying to be an Assistant Professor of Education, you’ll have to fight pretty hard to prove to a hiring committee that your Ed.D. and work experiences are equal in weight. In contrast, an educational company may prefer Ed.D. candidates.
• PreK-12 Considerations: If school districts have to compensate doctoral employees at the highest pay scale, an Ed.D. can sometimes be a discouragement to hiring committees. They don’t want to pay you more. This is a tricky topic, so chat to district peers about the possible downsides of a doctorate.
• Licensure & Certifications: For some jobs, the degree will take a back seat to other qualifications. For instance, if you wish to become a School Psychologist, employers may be more interested in your state license and NCSP credential than whether you chose an Ed.S. or Ed.D.
• Quality of the Doctorate: The Ed.D. is a bit of an upstart in the doctoral world, so it doesn’t always command the same respect as a Ph.D. When employers look at the Ed.D. listing on your résumé, they’ll also be considering name recognition and the quality of the College of Education. Check out our Rankings section for ideas on the best Ed.D. programs in the country.
• Job Outlook: Are top-level educational leadership jobs available in your area? What degrees do successful job applicants have? Are big-scale changes taking place (e.g. higher education institutions closing)? Can you pivot from one field into another? Ask yourself the hard questions before applying.
• Real-World Input: The best advice we can give you is to talk to mentors, peers, and recent Ed.S., Ed.D. & Ph.D. in Education graduates before you make a decision. They will give you honest perspectives about their experiences. They may even be able to help you avoid financial pitfalls.

Doctor of Education Leadership

Additional Information

• Download the Doctoral Viewbook
• Admissions & Aid

America needs transformative leaders in preK–12 education whose passion for education quality and equity is matched by a knowledge of learning and development, the organizational management skills to translate visionary ideas into practical success, and a firm grasp of the role of context and politics in shaping leadership. Graduates of the three-year, multidisciplinary Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) Program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education will be prepared to become those leaders.

The Ed.L.D Program — taught by faculty from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Harvard Business School, and the Harvard Kennedy School — will train you for system-level leadership positions in school systems, state and federal departments of education, and national nonprofit organizations. Ed.L.D. is a full-time, three-year program built on a cohort learning model. Cohorts consist of up to 25 students from diverse professional backgrounds (including district/charter management leaders, nonprofit directors, principals, teachers, and policy researchers) who progress through the program together.

All Ed.L.D. students receive a full tuition funding package plus stipends, work opportunities, and a paid third-year residency at a partner organization.

The Ed.L.D. Program prepares graduates to do work for the public good in the American public education sector, whether that be at the system or state level. Specifically, the program is designed to accelerate the progress graduates make toward achieving meaningful impact in influential roles and/or crossing boundaries in the following spaces in the public education sector:

• PreK–12 district or CMO leadership roles : superintendent of schools, chief academic officer, and/or deputy superintendent
• Foundation/philanthropy roles:  director, president and CEO, senior fellow
• Education nonprofit roles : president or executive director of backbone or collective impact organizations which support preK–12 schools. Ed.L.D. graduates will lead education nonprofits that explicitly focus on improving outcomes and opportunities for children, families, and communities.
• State or federal education leadership roles : commissioner or deputy commissioner roles. Could also include public education advocacy or education policy advisers to senior government officials.
• Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation roles:  Founder, CEO, president

Curriculum Information

The Ed.L.D. curriculum is a balance of multidisciplinary coursework and practice-based learning. Core courses and electives are taught by recognized leaders from across Harvard’s graduate programs in fields like data-based education reform, organizational change and innovation, and effective leadership strategies for urban schools. You will develop and test your leadership skills through team projects and an immersive third-year residency.

All students in the cohort take the same classes in four foundational content areas: learning and teaching, leadership and organizational change, politics and policy, adult development, and leadership inside and out (including one-on-one executive coaching). Courses taken during the first-year focus on practice-based learning and serve as the framework of your first-year experience.

Sample HGSE Courses

• Leading Change
• How People Learn
• Ed.L.D. Proseminar
• Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Learning
• Race, Equity, and Leadership
• Practicing Leadership Inside and Out
• Sector Change
• The Workplace Lab for System-Level Leaders

View  all courses  in the Academic Catalog.

Each cohort member works with program advisers to choose an individualized sequence of electives from any of the Harvard graduate schools. You will work closely with the program faculty and staff during your second year to determine the best match with a partner organization for your third-year residency. Matches are driven by mutual interest between the resident and the partner organization, and each student's career and learning goals and geographic preferences.

• Second Year Practicing Leadership Inside and Out
• Driving Change 
• Education Sector Nonprofits
• Negotiation Workshop
• Coaching with Equity in Mind
• Ethnic Studies and Education
• Deeper Learning for All:  Designing a 21st Century School System
• Institutional Change in School Organizations, Systems, and Sectors

You will take part in a 10-month paid residency at one of our partner organizations. There, you will work on a strategic project which synthesizes your experience and learning into a written Capstone project. You will stay connected to your Ed.L.D. cohort and HGSE through technology and by returning to Harvard periodically for intensive workshops.

Paid Residency 

Our partner organizations include school systems and departments of education, as well as some of the nation's most influential and dynamic nonprofit, mission-based for-profit, and philanthropic organizations.

You will be intentionally pushed out of your comfort zones and asked to work systemically and make a significant contribution to the partner organization. In addition, the residency will provide you with the professional mentoring, practical experiences, and network of connections they need to position themselves as future leaders in the education sector. 

Strategic Project 

You will define (with supervisors from your partner organization) a strategic project on which to focus. You will have the opportunity to lead one or two major efforts on behalf of the organization, such as the creation or implementation of current initiatives. The project allows you to practice and improve leadership skills, add important value to the mission and strategy of the partner organization, work systemically, and hold high-level accountability.

During the residency period, you will produce a written Capstone. The Capstone is a descriptive, analytic, and reflective account of your third-year leadership contributions to a strategic project within an Ed.L.D. partner organization. It is a demonstration of your ability to engage others, develop strategy to successfully address and diagnose challenges, work toward a vision and goals, and learn from the results.

Sample Topics

• Accountability, Coherence, and Improvement: Leadership Reflection and Growth in the Los Angeles Unified School District
• Leadership Development for Entrepreneurial Education Leaders Working to Build Public & Private Sector Support
• Disrupting Teacher Preparation: Lessons in Collaboration and Innovation Across the Learning to Teach Community of Practice
• Pursuing Educational Equality for English Language Learners

Sample Summaries 

• Breaking Down Silos in a School District: Findings from an Ed.L.D. Project in Montgomery County
• Expanding Students' Access to Meaningful STEM Learning Opportunities Through Strategic Community Partnerships
• Developing a New Teacher Leadership and Compensation System in Iowa: A Consensus-Based Process
• Finding Great Teachers for Blended-Learning Schools

GSE Theses and Dissertations from Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH)

Program Faculty

Ed.L.D. students learn with renowned faculty from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard Business School, and Harvard Kennedy School. Faculty from the three schools share their individual expertise in the Ed.L.D. Program and work collaboratively to provide a challenging and coherent experience for students. Faculty who teach in the Ed.L.D. core curriculum and advise Ed.L.D. students include:

Faculty Director

Frank D. Barnes

Frank Barnes is faculty director of the Doctor of Education Leadership Program. He has over 30 years experience as an educator, researcher, and organizer. As a chief accountability officer, he led turnaround efforts for large public school districts, including Boston Public Schools and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

Kathryn Parker Boudett

Ebony N. Bridwell-Mitchell

Jennifer Perry Cheatham

Elizabeth City

Candice Crawford-Zakian

Marshall Ganz

Adria D. Goodson

Deborah helsing.

Monica C. Higgins

Deborah Jewell-Sherman

Lisa Laskow Lahey

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Irvin Leon Scott

Catherine Snow

Michael L. Tushman

Martin west.

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Doctor of Education Leadership experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Combatting Chronic Absenteeism with Family Engagement 

As post-COVID absenteeism rates continue unabated, a look at how strong family-school engagement can help

Math, the Great (Potential) Equalizer

How current practices in math education around tracking and teaching can be dismantled to achieve the promise of equity in math classrooms

University of Bridgeport News

Doctorate in Education Salary Guide

Are you an educator looking to advance your knowledge, skills, career title, and earning potential?

If so, you’ve likely considered earning an advanced degree, such as a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D). A Doctorate in Education is a terminal degree designed to prepare candidates for various leadership roles in academia and administration.

Individuals with this degree secure positions in school administration, instructional development, and even outside of academia in corporate training and human resources positions.

Let’s look at the various career outcomes upon obtaining a Doctorate in Education and a projected Doctorate in Education salary.

What is a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D)?

A Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) is a terminal doctoral degree for individuals looking to assume the highest leadership roles in educational settings inside and outside the classroom.

By focusing on professional leadership and applied research, candidates take courses geared toward higher education leadership, pre-K and kindergarten through twelfth-grade educational administration, early childhood education, curriculum development and instruction, and special education.

Common courses found in Doctorate of Education programs include:

• Introduction to Education Leadership
• Evaluation of School Effectiveness
• Curricula Theory
• Comparative Education
• Program Evaluation

These advanced education programs typically consist of about 60 post-master’s credit hours and involve dissertations. Every college, university, and program will differ, so candidates should conduct research to understand their desired program’s requirements and curriculum.

For example, at University of Bridgeport, our hybrid (in-person and online) Doctorate in Education degree consists of sixty-two credits, which can be completed in as little as three and a half years if taken full-time.

No matter where you are in your academic career and journey, University of Bridgeport ensures you can fast-track your career advancement and pursue various educational leadership positions and roles.

What Career Outcomes and Salary Potential Can I Expect from a Doctorate in Education?

Graduates of Doctorate in Education programs can obtain professional, academic, administrative, research, and clinical positions in pre-K-twelve, higher education, private institutions, civil service settings, and more. Here are some examples, along with their Ed.D. salary potential.

1. Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals

As the overseers of school operations and daily activities, elementary, middle, and high school principals coordinate curriculums, manage staff, and provide a safe and productive learning environment for students and teachers.

They also set academic goals and ensure teachers have the equipment and resources needed to meet those goals. Principals can expect to have regular work weeks with more than forty hours on the job as they meet with parents and other community members and attend school functions like concerts and athletic events.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , the median annual wage for elementary, middle, and high school principals is $101,320 , with the highest ten percent earning more than $158,770 per year.

Looking to jump into the field of education but not sure where to start? Explore UB’s Teacher Certification programs and start changing lives in as few as 15 months!

2. instructional coordinators.

Instructional coordinators work behind the scenes to help develop and assess curricula and teaching standards for schools or entire districts.

Individuals in this position perform the following roles and duties:

• Plan, organize, and conduct teacher training, conferences, or workshops
• Analyze students’ test data
• Recommend teaching techniques and the use of different technologies and teaching methods.
• Develop, implement, and teach new content, programs, or curriculum.

Instructional coordinators make a median annual salary of $66,490 , with the highest ten percent earning more than $105,210 , as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported. While many find work in schools, instructional coordinators also find well-paying positions in government and educational support services.

3. Academic Deans

Academic deans are senior college or university administrators generally responsible for managing faculty and administrative staff, setting educational goals, managing departmental budgets, and working with admissions offices to attract new students to their school.

Deans are found in specific academic departments or specific offices, such as the admissions or alums outreach offices, fulfilling a wide range of tasks and responsibilities and spending on the institution.

While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not explicitly report on academic deans, they note that the median wage for postsecondary education administrators is $99,940 annually . The top industries where postsecondary education administrators worked were colleges, universities, and professional schools at the state, local, and private levels.

4. Training and Development Managers

Candidates with Doctorate of Education (Ed.D) degrees can also pursue positions outside academia, such as training and development managers, in businesses, corporations, non-profits, government, military, and other public and private organizations.

Training and development managers plan, coordinate, and direct skills- and knowledge-enhancement programs for an organization and its employees.

With a six percent employment growth rate and a median annual salary of $120,000 per year , as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported, this is a worthwhile career path for graduates of Doctorate of Education programs.

5. Human Resources Managers

Human resources managers oversee all staff-related business functions for their employers. This includes overseeing the recruiting, interviewing, and hiring new staff, consulting with top executives on strategic planning, and serving as the link between an organization’s management and its employees.

Human resources managers can expect to earn a median annual salary of $130,000 , with the highest ten percent earning more than $224,360 annually.

The Doctorate in Education Salary Potential is High

As you can see, earning a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) can lead to career and personal success and advancement, open the door to high salaries, and make a broad impact in many different fields and industries.

If you are ready to take this next step in your educational and academic career, consider our Doctorate of Education (Ed.D) in Educational Leadership program at University of Bridgeport.

Our classes are taught by experts in their fields with a strong emphasis on international education, providing you with a more profound and diverse understanding needed to enhance and improve the effectiveness of public and private educational institutions.

Contact us today to learn more, and let’s crush your career goals – together!

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Doctor of Philosophy Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Prepare for a career as a professor or researcher of educational leadership and policy while interrogating multiple aspects of schools and other educational institutions. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis of contemporary problems of practice in collaborative study environments with professors, school leaders, and doctoral students.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

What You'll Learn

In this doctorate, you will critically examine the conceptual, organizational, political, social, managerial, interpersonal, and technical dimensions of schools and other educational institutions. Research agendas of the faculty and students center on the nexus between theory and practice and explore critical issues facing educational leaders and policymakers today. 

Alternate-Year Admissions

The Educational Leadership and Policy Studies PhD has an alternate year admissions process where candidates will be admitted every other year on the following timeline:

• Entrance in Fall 2024:  December 1, 2023 application deadline
• Entrance in Fall 2025:  no cohort
• Entrance in Fall 2026:  December 1, 2025 application deadline

Prospective applicants should apply beginning September 2023 for Fall 2024 matriculation.

Funding for Full-Time PhD Students

NYU Steinhardt offers a competitive funding package for PhD students who study full time.  Learn more about our funding opportunities .

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6 Career Paths for a Doctorate in Educational Leadership

Opportunities made possible with a doctorate in educational leadership.

Every person deserves a quality education. While professional educators are the leaders of this charge, one question still stands—who is teaching the teachers? Moreso, who decides the proper educator preparation needed, including the right methodologies, theories, and systems used for teaching?

That’s where a Doctorate in Educational Leadership steps in. 

If you are passionate about helping others reach their greatest potential, a Doctorate in Educational Leadership (EdD) may be your grad school calling. This educational leadership degree offers numerous opportunities to advance your career, creating a meaningful impact in the education sector by improving leadership in schools . 

First—What is a Doctorate in Educational Leadership?

So, what exactly is a Doctorate in Educational Leadership? In short, it’s the final step towards being the top of your class in the education field.  

An EdD prepares students to pursue leadership roles in any education setting from school principals and higher education instructors to policymakers. However, an EdD is a terminal degree—i.e., the highest degree possible to earn in its field. 1 This means most EdD programs will require you to hold a graduate school degree to enroll. Additionally, you’ll likely need some educational background or experience to earn this degree.

Most EdD programs take about three to five years to complete, requiring extensive coursework, research, and usually a dissertation. 2 While education leadership programs differ in curriculum, they will typically cover the same educational leadership areas and skills, which include:

• Educational administration
• Educational policy & analysis
• Educational philosophy
• Leadership theory
• Organizational management
• Research methods

What Career Opportunities Does a Doctorate in Educational Leadership Provide?

Achieving a terminal degree in any field can appeal to many employers. But, what is educational leadership and what can you do with a Doctorate in Educational Leadership? Essentially, an EdD allows you to pursue high-power positions in education with more oversight, authority, and expertise. Here are a few career paths and roles to consider once you earn this degree.

#1 Educational Administrative Leader

Every school and school system needs its leaders—and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership can help you become a qualified one. 

Educational administration leadership roles, such as principals or deans, are very common career choices for those with an EdD. By leading educational facilities, these positions take on a wide array of management and leadership tasks, including: 3

• Establishing school missions and goals
• Creating a safe learning environment
• Overseeing curriculum quality
• Monitoring school finances
• Evaluating teacher and student performance
• Enforcing disciplinary actions
• Facilitating school public relations
• Ensuring school-government compliance

Depending on the school or school system, the roles of an educational administrator may vary. With a doctoral degree, you could pursue these high-level administrator roles:

• Principal – A principal is the leader of a primary or secondary school. This leadership role will typically manage the school’s daily operations, supervise teachers and staff, and ensure students receive a high quality education. While some principals only have master’s degrees, those with an EdD could bring more advanced knowledge in curriculum development, teacher supervision, and educational policy.  
• Superintendent – A superintendent is the top administrator of a school district. Typically, they are responsible for managing the district's budget, programs, and personnel—essentially all moving parts. Superintendents typically have a doctoral degree in educational leadership or a related field, as well as extensive experience in education. 4  
• Dean – A dean oversees a college or university’s academic programming and faculty. This role is usually responsible for pursuing institutional missions by setting academic policies, managing budgets, and overseeing staff members. In particular, those with an EdD can bring skills like strategic planning, organizational development, and personnel management to a dean position.  

#2 Education Public Policy Analyst

If your work in education is mission-driven, then you may have an eye for public policy. Fortunately, an EdD can be your pathway toward shaping the structures and goals within educational systems.

An educational public policy analyst is the “big-picture” role of the education field. This job analyzes and advocates for policies that they believe will improve the education of others. Typically, policy analysts work for learning institutions or governments to directly influence how educational facilities work. To shape the future of education, analysts may: 5

• Conduct research on education-related topics
• Collect data on school and student performance
• Present findings to private or public parties
• Create new policies for educational facilities
• Monitor educational initiatives or trends

#3 Educational Consultant

Consulting isn’t just for finance and management. If you hold an EdD, you can help improve the outcomes of educational facilities by consulting them on their policies, missions, and work. 

Put simply, an educational consultation provides feedback and solutions to other educators. Some may serve on the boards of educational facilities, while others may be contracted to handle certain issues. For example, an educational consultant could reorganize a university’s faculty hierarchy for more efficient communication.

Most consultants have a specialty, such as college preparation, but they all should offer a high level of expertise. Some other educational consultant specialties include: 6

• Curriculum design
• Financial aid
• School testing
• Teacher training
• Program augmentation

#4 Education Researcher

Yes, it’s true—you can study how people study. Education research is an exciting and dynamic field for those with a great passion for learning, particularly those with an EdD. 

Educational researchers study, analyze, and report data on anything to do with learning, all in hopes of improving educational quality. Since this endeavor requires rigorous scientific work, many education researchers hold an EdD to demonstrate their expertise. Through their data, researchers can help shape the policies that imbue educational systems. Some common research topics may include: 7

• Teaching methodologies (lecture-based instruction, problem-based learning, etc.)
• Student evaluation (testing, portfolio assessments, etc.)
• Classroom management
• Educational psychology
• Educational reform (political forces, social trends, etc.)

#5 Social and Community Service Managers

Not all learning happens within schools. Local programs can offer incredible educational opportunities to the public—and they need intelligent managers to lead the way.

A social and community service manager coordinates programs that enrich the lives of community members, from neighborhood revitalization projects to after-school programs. While often hired by governments, these roles can also work under nonprofit organizations or social service agencies. Typically, a social and community service manager will be responsible for: 8

• Program design
• Budget management
• Staff supervision
• Program data & analysis
• Collaboration with community members
• Government advocacy

An EdD degree equips you with the skills to handle complex systems, social climates, and economic issues – useful across many environments. Your educational expertise can improve the lives of those even outside of traditional schools. 

#6 Education Writer or Journalist

They always say to write what you know. If you earn an EdD, you’ll definitely know a thing or two about education—thus, welcome to the world of education writing .

Like any other topic, education requires savvy and expert writers to share its intricacies. An EdD program offers an incredible breadth of knowledge on education, as well as requiring extensive writing. It’s safe to say this degree can prepare students for a future as an education writer or journalist, covering any of the following topics:

• Teaching trends
• School violence
• University rankings
• Government educational policies
• Student behavior or performance

How Does an EdD Differ from Other Graduate Degrees in Education?

PhD, master’s, EdD—what’s the difference? When pursuing a graduate-level degree in education, your options can get a little confusing. To help you decide, let’s break down these different options.

A master’s, PhD, and EdD are all considered graduate degrees you can pursue after college. However, the focus and intensity of each degree vary. Consider which post-grad options would best suit your needs in the educational field: 9

• Master’s degree in education – Usually taking just two years to complete, a master’s in education offers training in a more specific area like curriculum development or educational leadership. Usually, higher-level educational positions (principals, community service managers, etc.) will require this degree.  
• PhD in education – Standing for Doctor of Philosophy, a PhD in education takes about 4 to 6 years to complete. PhD programs are very academic, usually requiring students to conduct original research on education. This program may suit students pursuing educational research, high academic positions, or policy. Depending on the facility, a PhD program may require you to hold a Master’s degree.  
• EdD in education – Similar to a PhD, an EdD in education is a more intensive graduate degree typically lasting 3 to 5 years. However, an EdD focuses on leadership roles in education rather than research and academic roles. Students usually apply research to the “real world” for practical or administrative use, opening the door to careers that combine both of these areas. Most EdD programs require you to hold a master’s degree.

Find Your Educational Path with Alliant International University

In education, the learning never stops. If you wish to reach your full potential and new career heights in this field, then pursuing an EdD could be the first step in your path—and we can help get you started.

At Alliant International University , our Doctorate in Educational Leadership program gives you the wide knowledge, real-life applications, and confidence you need to become a leader in education. No matter the role you wish to pursue, our faculty can help you feel prepared to make positive and lasting changes as a student, a teacher, and a leader in education. 

Learn more about our online Education Programs today.

• “What Is a Terminal Degree and Do You Need One?.” Coursera. https://www.coursera.org/articles/terminal-degree . Accessed April 19, 2023.
• “Online Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership” US News. https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/educational-leadershi… . Accessed April 19, 2023.
• “School Administrator Job Description, Career and Salary: Resilient Educator.” ResilientEducator.com, September 1, 2020. https://resilienteducator.com/teaching-careers/educational-supervisor/ . Accessed April 19, 2023.
•  “Educational Leadership: Master’s vs. Doctorate Degree”. Graduateprogram.org, December 23, 2021. https://www.graduateprogram.org/2021/12/masters-vs-doctorate-educationa… . Accessed April 19, 2023.
•  “Jobs in Education Policy: Career and Salary Information: Resilient Educator.” ResilientEducator.com, January 25, 2023. https://resilienteducator.com/teaching-careers/education-policy-analyst/ . Accessed April 19, 2023.
• “How to Become an Educational Consultant (plus Salary Info).” Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-an-edu… . Accessed April 19, 2023.
•  “Common Guidelines for Education Research and Development.” Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education.   https://ies.ed.gov/pdf/CommonGuidelines.pdf . Accessed April 19, 2023.
•  “Social and Community Service Managers : Occupational Outlook Handbook.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, September 8, 2022. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-manager… . Accessed April 19, 2023.
•  “Ed.D. vs. Ph.d. vs. Ed.S.: What's the Difference?: BestColleges.” BestColleges.com, April 6, 2023. https://www.bestcolleges.com/education/doctorate/edd-phd-eds-difference/ . Accessed April 19, 2023.

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School of Education

Edd and phd in education jobs and career paths, drexel university school of education, phd vs. edd .

Though the  EdD and  PhD in Education are similar in form, they’re fundamentally different in function. Both the EdD and Phd degrees allow you to develop your abilities as an educator and to pursue a wide range of career opportunities with high earning potential. However, with a different emphasis in curriculum, the EdD and PhD, differ significantly in the range of career paths that graduates are ready to pursue.

Interested in learning more about career opportunities and jobs in education with an EdD or PhD requirement?  Request more information about Drexel University School of Education’s educational programs.

What does it mean to have a doctor of Education (EDD)? 

Careers with a doctorate in education range from leadership positions in schools to careers in corporate, government and non-profit settings. A common question when students are thinking about an EdD is, “can you be a professor with an EdD”? The short answer to this question is yes, although a PhD may be a better fit for those who wish to become a professor at a college or university. An EdD is ideal for those who are practitioners looking to grow within their company. For example, a teacher or school principal wishing to become a superintendent may find Drexel’s EdD in Educational Leadership and Management  with a Superintendent Letter of Eligibility to be the right degree for them. Alternatively, a manager within a company looking to grow into a c-suite executive or Chief Learning Officer position may benefit from an EdD with a concentration in Human Resource Development.

What can you do with a doctorate in education?

EdD programs tend to focus on learning about the management of large and complex organizations. This curriculum prepares EdD graduates to take on a wide range of administrative positions inside and outside of academia, with varying salaries.

Doctor in Education (EdD) Salary and Career Opportunities

With an emphasis on leadership roles, and the experience of working with cultural diversity in the classroom, a doctorate in education (EdD) prepares you to work in a number of different positions, with Doctor of Education salary varying by position. These positions include, but aren’t limited to:

• school superintendent
• policy maker
• curriculum director
• chief learning officer
• education administrator
• training and development manager

School Principal

Though students often think of principals as a chief disciplinarian, school principals are actually responsible for overseeing virtually every aspect of a school’s operation. From evaluating teachers to managing the budget, principals work to improve student outcomes in a multidimensional way.

The average salary for a school principal varies between $80,329 for elementary school and $89,882 for high school positions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , median pay for a school principal (without specifying between elementary, secondary education, or high school) is $98,490.

Education Administrator

For a number of reasons, an education administrator is one of the best PhD in educational leadership jobs. Someone in this position is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a school. The role requires developing a vision for the future of the school and implementing programs to help keep that vision running on track. Salary varies depending on the educational level instructed. According to PayScale the average salary for an education administrator is $69,508, however according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , education administrators for elementary and secondary schools have a mean annual wage of $98,750.

Training and Development Manager

Individuals in the education field need to continue learning throughout their career. A training and development manager is someone who evaluates an organization’s future and present needs for training. They might create or update existing training programs, with videos, web content, instruction manuals, and similar educational training resources. They may also directly oversee the training of staff, making them one of the most hands-on variety of doctor of education jobs.

According to PayScale , the average salary for a training & development manager is $77,507. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median pay for a training and development manager as substantially higher at $115,640.

Chief Learning Officer

Every business, non-profit group, and educational institution will have their own unique goals, resources, and talent on staff. A chief learning officer is someone who formulates the strategy, responsible for directing the goals and policies of their institution. Similar to a training and development manager, the chief learning officer is responsible for disseminating knowledge, keeping things under budget, and a number of similar administrative tasks. According to PayScale , the average salary for a chief learning officer is $155,551, while the Bureau of Labor Statistics cites the median pay at $115,640.

EdD Career Frequently Asked Questions

Can i become a professor with an edd.

Individuals with an EdD can become a professor at a college or university, but they typically also have several years of work experience. For instance, a superintendent of a school district may retire and become a professor of education at a university. It is recommended that if your career goal is to become a professor, that you pursue a PhD degree. A PhD degree includes a curriculum that is steeped in research, which is what a professor would be doing when they are not teaching courses.

Do I have to come to campus to complete my EdD?

At Drexel University, the online EdD program can be completed without ever coming to campus. Students can take all their courses online and conduct their dissertation research remotely. EdD students can also defend their dissertation remotely. It is quite common for students to only come to campus for their commencement ceremony to receive their doctoral hood from their professor and be recognized on stage, however, this is also not required.

What does it mean to have a PhD in education?

A PhD in Education is an advanced degree that teaches students various qualitative and quantitative research theory and techniques. The curriculum involves formal courses along with professional research and other activities. Students work closely with a supervising professor as they conduct their dissertation research. A PhD in Education typically prepares students for careers as a professor or researcher in education, although the core research principles taught in the program can apply to other fields in the private and public sectors.

PhD in Education Salary and Careers Opportunities

What can you do with a PhD in education? PhD programs are usually best suited to people who want to teach or research. Having a mastery of their subject and finely-honed research skills, a PhD graduate is a scholar capable of training new scholars. Though focused on teaching and research, the PhD in Education actually provides access to a diverse range of career options inside and outside of academia.

University Professor

Professors are teachers for college-level students. Usually specializing in one field, such as law or biology, a university professor is responsible for instructing students. They are educators who have a mastery of understanding over the importance of diversity in the classroom and use it to educate students from a wide variety of backgrounds. Depending on their focus and career track, professors are also usually involved with research or publishing.

The salary of a university professor varies widely, depending on area of expertise, and whether working in an adjunct or tenure track position. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , median pay for this position is $80,790, but according to PayScale , university professors have an average salary of $88,445.

College President

In addition to sharing many responsibilities with school principals, a college president is the chief fundraiser of their institution. They work to raise the profile of their institution and work closely with other administrators to find better ways of supporting their students. Similar to a chief learning officer, the president has a vision for their school, and works to develop that vision.

According to PayScale , the average salary for a college president is $155,616. But there are significant differences in salary between public and private institutions. Conversely, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , a postsecondary education administrator enjoys a median salary of $97,500.

An educational researcher leverages their knowledge of the educational field and designs academic programs that assist schools and universities to devise curriculum and measure student progress. They work with faculty to devise a measurable process for programs, identifying inefficiencies and working to develop the skills of faculty to give students a more robust educational experience. Additionally, they can advocate for research projects that can help a university to determine new programs to add. Universities will add new programs in order to meet changing demands within academia and the workforce thus preparing students for existing or emerging career paths. According to Glassdoor , university researchers earn an average salary of $57,000, although some can command an annual salary of up to $89,000.

PhD in Education Frequently Asked Questions

Can i earn a phd while working full-time.

At Drexel, we offer two paths in our PhD in Education  program. We have a paid full-time program and a part-time program. In the full-time program, students take courses and work within their department of study. Students receive a stipend to help pay for their living expenses while in the program. The part-time program is geared towards working professionals who want to earn a PhD, but do not want to give up their jobs. Students in this track take courses in the evening and online and pay tuition. Students in the part-time PhD program may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships to help cover the cost of their education.

Can I apply my PhD to careers outside education?

A PhD in education opens the doors to many careers both in and outside of education. Students with a PhD can apply their knowledge of research to almost any company or organization that is looking to solve complex problems. Careers outside education include Chief Knowledge Officer, Chief of Staff, Researcher, and more.

Which is Better, PhD or EdD in Education?

While not one degree is “better” than the other, the bigger question is “which degree, PhD or EdD in Education, is better for you.” Visit our EdD Vs PhD page  to learn more about the similarities and differences between the two programs. You can also visit our Doctoral Programs page  to learn more about the curriculum and format of Drexel EdD and PhD programs, or you can Request More Information  from us.

PhD in Higher Education – Educational Leadership Degree Shaping Organizations for Success

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Become an Authority in Academia with Liberty’s Online PhD in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership Degree Online

If you’re interested in pursuing a research-based career or opportunities in academia, Liberty University’s 100% online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership may be a great fit for you. Our higher education PhD online has been designed with your success in mind. Whether you’d like to become a department chair, the dean of a school, provost, or university president, our online doctorate in higher education administration can help you reach your career goals.

As of October 2020, 61.8% of high school graduates between the ages of 16 and 24 were enrolled at a college or university.* This statistic speaks to the importance of qualified higher education administrators. Millions of young Americans attend college in hopes of earning an education, boosting their earning potential, increasing their employability, and forging lifelong connections.

As a higher education administrator, you’ll play a crucial role in building and maintaining a university setting that students want to attend. The role of a university administrator isn’t just about negotiating with accrediting partners or providing feedback to department chairs — it’s about ensuring that the future of the world is in good hands.

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at College Enrollment and Work Activity of Recent High School and College Graduates Summary (viewed online Dec. 2, 2022).

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• 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 PhD in Higher Education Administration Degree – Educational Leadership?

Maybe you’ve always wanted to work in an academic setting, or perhaps you already do. Either way, there are numerous job opportunities available in academia. Liberty’s educational leadership and higher education PhD online could be your ticket to a well-paying career in student services, academics, faculty research, or higher education administration.

We recognize that your personal responsibilities don’t stop when you enroll in a degree program, which is why our doctorate in higher education online is offered 100% online in mostly 8-week courses with no required intensives. That way, you won’t have to worry about traveling to campus for classes or spend time away from your job, family, or community.

What Will You Study in Our PhD in Higher Education – Educational Leadership Degree Online?

In our PhD in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership, you can learn about teaching the college student, college and university administration, historical perspectives of higher education, and the economic impact of higher education. You will also study the specifics of accreditation.

In the educational leadership specialization, you’ll study issues and trends in technology and learning as well as policy analysis. You’ll also be able to choose between two courses: organizational analysis and problem-solving for educators, or conflict resolution. Our educational leadership cognate is rounded out by an elective course, which allows you to study a topic you’re most passionate about.

Upon completion of your core courses, you’ll begin to venture into dissertation preparation. The research courses in our online doctor of higher education include advanced educational statistics, quantitative and qualitative methods of research, and a dissertation literature review. You will also study research concepts and methodology as part of your research courses.

And finally, the dissertation portion of your degree will consist of multiple courses. Through these courses, you will choose a topic, research your topic, and present your findings to our School of Education faculty.

Potential Career Opportunities

• College/university administrator
• Curriculum specialist
• Educational consultant
• Program coordinator
• Student affairs director

Featured Courses

• EDUC 758 – Teaching the College Student
• EDUC 759 – College and University Administration
• EDUC 782 – Historical Perspectives of Higher Education
• EDUC 784 – Assessment and Accreditation

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Education .
• View the Graduate Education Course Guides (login required) .
• View the Doctoral Advising Guide .
• Most of our PhD courses are offered in an 8-week format; however, the dissertation courses are full-semester in length.

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

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• 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.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information for Liberty’s Online PhD in Higher Education Administration Online

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 .

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.

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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Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the career potential look like for this field.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary education administrators earned an average salary of $97,500 in 2020.** Demand for this career is expected to grow by 8% between 2020 and 2030, and the BLS projects that about 14,500 new postsecondary education administration positions will become available each year during the same time frame. If you’re interested in becoming a college administrator, our doctor of higher education is an excellent choice.

**Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, at Postsecondary Education Administrators (viewed online Sept. 29, 2021). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

What accreditation does Liberty University have?

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

What title can I use once I have earned this degree?

Upon successful completion of this degree program, you will have earned the title of “Doctor” – a title that commands respect in academic and business communities alike.

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