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25 Best Online Doctoral Programs in Education without Dissertation [2026 Degree Programs]

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man pursuing an education doctorate degree

Earn your doctorate without the hassle of a dissertation. The best online doctoral programs in education without dissertation give you the flexibility to balance your professional life while achieving your academic ambitions. These programs focus on advanced coursework and practical applications, offering a streamlined path to leadership roles in education.

Your expertise deserves recognition, and these programs make it possible without the prolonged stress of traditional research. Whether you’re aiming to innovate in the classroom, shape educational policy, or lead institutions with confidence, these doctoral options put your goals within reach. Explore flexible, accessible, and accredited programs designed to propel your career to the top.

Online EdD Programs Without Dissertation

Select the Education degree specialization that most interests you from the list below:

Online education programs, especially those that don’t require dissertations, allow you to pursue doctoral studies through a format that fits your busy life.

Adult Learning

Although educating children might be the first thing that comes to mind for many people when they think about teachers, adult education is just as important. If you have a passion to equip adult learners with skills and knowledge, then consider an EdD with a specialization in Adult Learning.

Many graduates put this degree to work in higher education settings; for example, you could run programs to help people return to college after a break. Others provide training and education in public health, business or government settings.

Topics of study may include working with groups, providing ethical leadership and understanding learning styles.

Community College Leadership

Community colleges provide many people with access to affordable, convenient higher education. If you have a passion for helping college students succeed in the classroom, then a concentration in Community College Leadership can fuel your professional growth.

Your topics of study may include budgeting, educational technology, policy making, diversity and evaluation methods. You’ll also learn about organizational leadership and discuss how to guide organizations through times of transition.

After graduation, you are likely to hold a leadership position in a community college, but you could also work for related organizations, such as a government education agency.

Curriculum & Instruction

If you’re passionate about education, then you probably want to help students learn in the best way possible. Whether your goal is to work with children or adults, a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction can help you become a more effective teacher or educational leader.

In your studies, you’ll learn more about the theories that shape teaching methods, curriculum styles and means of evaluating student progress. You may need to hold a valid teaching license before beginning this program.

After earning your doctorate, you might work in school administration, hold a leadership role among classroom teachers, teach in academia or serve as an educational consultant.

Early Childhood Education

When you shape children during their early years, you can make a difference that lasts for a lifetime. By studying Early Childhood Education, you will become an expert in working with children up to age eight. This training can be useful in preschool and early elementary settings.

You can also apply your studies in government agencies or community programs, or you can prepare the next generation of teachers as an instructor at the college level.

You may want to look for a program that is accredited or recognized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Educational Administration

While teachers work in the classroom, administrators are working behind-the-scenes to ensure that high-quality education is being delivered throughout the institution.

Administrators work at all levels of education. For example, administrators in higher education may be responsible for maintaining a safe and satisfied student body, ensuring that legal regulations are being followed, or determining whether effective instruction and evaluation practices are being used.

With a concentration in Educational Administration, you could become a university’s dean of students, admissions director, academic dean or president. For schools with younger students, you could serve as the principal, special education director or superintendent.

Educational Counseling

To help others become effective counselors, consider a concentration in Educational Counseling. After earning this degree, you may serve in a supervisory or training capacity over counseling students or school counselors.

For success in this field, you must have a good grasp of counseling practices and well as effective instructional methods. Your curriculum may cover counseling theories, instructional methods, ethical practices and program evaluation. In addition, you may discuss case studies with your classmates and have hands-on opportunities to practice your supervision skills.

After graduation, you could work at a university or a healthcare facility, or you could join a government agency.

Educational Psychology

What factors influence how students learn and how teachers teach? With a specialization in Educational Psychology, you can delve into the psychological factors that play a role in educational processes. Through classes like Human Development, Personality Psychology, Evaluations and Analyses, and Ethical Psychology Practices, you’ll study topics such as motivation, social behaviors, growth and development, and cultural influences.

With this degree, you might decide to work in a school setting or serve as a corporate trainer. To hold a school counselor or school psychologist position, you may need to pursue licensure in your state; additional coursework may be required.

Educational Technology

In many ways, technology is changing the face of education at all levels. If you want to be on the cutting edge of these educational developments, then you could pursue a concentration in Educational Technology.

During your doctoral work, you may study digital media, multimedia presentations and eLearning delivery methods, and you’ll discuss the strengths and weaknesses of these platforms. Your program will also cover planning, implementing and evaluating organizational change.

You may want to look for a program in which the curriculum is aligned with the standards set by the Association for Educational Communications and Technology.

Higher Education Leadership

Being a leader requires being able to navigate change and guide others through the transition process. As a student in the Higher Education Leadership specialization, you’ll study effective means of leading schools and other educational organizations.

Your curriculum may cover instructional methods and organizational psychology. Additionally, the doctoral program will address methods of motivating staff and students to implement new, more effective teaching and learning methods.

This specialization can prepare you for an administrative role at a community college or a university. You could also put your degree into practice as a workplace trainer or an organizational change consultant.

Reading & Literacy

Strong reading skills can make all the difference during the school years and beyond. To help improve reading and comprehension for kids or adults, become an expert in the field with a Reading and Literacy concentration.

You’ll learn about working through language barriers, assessing literacy skills, applying for grants and implementing reading programs. Your degree program will also cover the various theories behind language and literacy education.

Although this degree can be quite helpful in a classroom setting, you can also pursue this field if you want to become a curriculum writer, a school consultant, a government policymaker or the director of a community program.

Special Education

Teachers and administrators who work with special-needs students require a unique set of skills and knowledge. A Special Education concentration will hone the work you do among at-risk students, gifted learners, and those with physical, emotional or intellectual disabilities.

The coursework may cover legal issues, data interpretation and program implementation. With a doctorate, you could become the director of an elementary or secondary special education program, or you could teach in the education department of a university.

Of course, you might also choose to work directly with students in the classroom, or you could write curriculum for special-needs learners.

Education Careers & Salary

Simple graph showing the career outlook for doctorate in education

Earning a doctoral degree in education can open a number of career paths to you. Many of these options are in growing fields that offer promising salaries. For the next ten years, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a job-growth rate of 5% for teachers, trainers and librarians. Some doctoral-level positions within the field of education are expected to experience a faster growth rate.

School Principals

Administrators, such as principals, may work at the elementary, middle school or high school levels.

Job Growth:

  • Job Growth: -2%

Average Salary:

  • Annual Median Salary: $104,070

University Administrators

Student deans, academic deans, admissions directors and college presidents are part of a school’s administrative team.

Job Growth:

  • Job Growth: 2%

Average Salary:

  • Annual Median Salary: $103,960

Professors and Other Postsecondary Teachers

In a higher-education setting, you could train future teachers or work with adult learners.

Job Growth:

  • Job Growth: 7%

Average Salary:

  • Annual Median Salary: $83,980

Instructional Coordinators

The responsibilities of an instructional coordinator include overseeing curriculum and teaching methods.

Job Growth:

  • Job Growth: 1%

Average Salary:

  • Annual Median Salary: $74,720

Corporate or Industrial Training Specialists

As a training specialist, you can help employees improve their professional skills.

Job Growth:

  • Job Growth: 11%

Average Salary:

  • Annual Median Salary: $65,850

Accreditation

Any college or university that you attend should be regionally accredited. This means that the entire school has received the approval of one of the main regional accreditors, such as the Higher Learning Commission or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Your doctoral program may have additional accreditation from an industry-specific organization. The main accrediting body for schools of education is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Early childhood programs may receive a distinction from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Such accreditations affirm that a program is of the highest quality.

Financial Aid

The first step to obtaining financial aid for your doctoral program is to complete the free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once you’ve taken care of that, you may be able to qualify for financial aid in the form of:

  • Grants
  • Loans
  • Scholarships
  • Federal Work-Study
  • Fellowships

Professional Organizations

Educators know how important it is to learn from one another, so there are many professional organizations available for people in this field. Becoming a member of one or more of these groups may offer you opportunities for networking, support, discounts and professional development.

Professional organizations include:

  • American Association of School Administrators (AASA)
  • American Association of University Administrators (AAUA)
  • Association of American Educators (AAE)
  • National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
  • National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP)
  • National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP)
  • National Education Association (NEA)

What is a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)?

A Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree is a terminal degree designed for individuals who aspire to become leaders and experts in various fields related to education.

The primary purpose of an Ed.D. program is to enhance the skills and knowledge of scholars, teachers, university faculty, and other professionals with a focus on improving teaching practices, shaping educational policies, and promoting effective learning environments in workplaces.

The benefits of pursuing an Ed.D. include gaining practical knowledge that can be immediately applied to one’s job, such as implementing applied research methodologies and utilizing decision-making rubrics to address real-life problems. The degree program often offers specialized concentrations tailored to specific career paths. For instance, a teacher, principal, or dean might choose a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction, while an education administrator might opt for Educational Leadership. Additionally, professionals in fields like nursing, the military, or business may find value in concentrations such as Organizational Leadership.

Is It Possible to Get a Doctorate Degree Online?

Yes, many schools offer fully online doctoral programs; from beginning to end, you may never have to step foot on campus or meet face-to-face with your faculty advisors. Other schools, including graduate schools that don’t require GRE scores, have hybrid programs that can be completed mostly online but may require some on-campus classes or in-person residencies.

In fact, some universities now offer EdD programs without GRE requirements.

Are There Doctoral Programs in Education That Do Not Require a Dissertation?

In a doctoral program, it’s important for the faculty to assess how much you know about your chosen area of study. A dissertation is one means of conducting that evaluation, but it’s not the only way. Some doctoral programs do not require a dissertation, but instead rely on capstone projects or other assessments.

What is the Difference Between an EdD and a PhD in Education?

An EdD is a professional doctorate designed for real-world application. It’s most suitable for those who want to continue working in the field.

A PhD may deal more with educational theory and research. It may be suited for those who want to conduct original research or teach at the college level.

What is the Difference Between an EdD vs. EdS?

The main difference between an Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) program and an Ed.S. (Education Specialist) program lies in their academic focus, scope, and career outcomes. Both degrees are postgraduate programs in the field of education, but they serve different purposes and cater to distinct career goals.

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

An Ed.D. is a terminal degree, similar to a Ph.D., and is designed for individuals seeking leadership roles and expertise in educational research, policy-making, and administration. Ed.D. programs focus on advanced theoretical and practical knowledge, emphasizing leadership and innovation in educational settings. Graduates often pursue careers as school superintendents, education policymakers, or higher education administrators.

Education Specialist (Ed.S.)

On the other hand, an Ed.S. program is an intermediate, post-master’s level degree. It provides specialized training for educators looking to advance their careers in specific areas, such as school counseling, curriculum development, or educational technology. Ed.S. programs concentrate on practical skills and application, preparing graduates to become specialists in their chosen field, typically working as school counselors, instructional coordinators, or curriculum specialists.

An Ed.D. is a more research-oriented and leadership-focused degree, while an Ed.S. is a specialized program that enhances expertise in a specific educational area. The choice between the two depends on individual career aspirations, with the Ed.D. leading to higher-level leadership roles and the Ed.S. providing specialized expertise in a particular education-related field.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Education?

In general, a full-time education doctoral program may take three to four years to complete. A select few with accelerated tracks may be doable in just 18 to 24 months. Programs that require dissertations may take longer than non-dissertation doctorates.

Can I Work While Earning a Doctorate in Education?

Working full-time while going to school requires flexibility. Online doctoral programs can be ideal for those who need to balance school and employment. If you find that a full-time class load is too much, consider part-time enrollment.

What is the Biggest Difference Between a Traditional and an Online EdD Program?

Campus-based and online programs cover the same material and produce comparable results, but online EdD programs may offer greater scheduling flexibility. With >online classes, you may learn the material through a variety of media, including message boards, textbooks, interactive simulators, live discussions and prerecorded lectures.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate Programs in Education Without Dissertation

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

The universities below offer doctorate of education degrees without requiring a dissertation. Under each school listed, you will find the specific EdD degrees offered.

1. Bradley University

Bradley University’s asynchronous, online EdD in Educational Leadership requires 48 credits total, with 21 concentration hours. The program focuses on higher education administration for working professionals. 

Instead of a traditional dissertation, students fulfill doctoral research requirements within their coursework. The curriculum emphasizes leadership theory and practical applications and is guided by experienced faculty.

Bradley University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Capella University

Capella University’s online Doctor of Education (EdD) program requires the completion of 64 quarter credits. It offers five specialization options: Adult Education, Curriculum and Instructions, Educational Leadership, Performance Improvement Leadership, and Reading and Literacy.

Unlike traditional programs with a dissertation, it culminates in a capstone doctoral project for practical application. The program includes a FlexPath option in Education Leadership, catering to professionals seeking advanced roles.

Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University’s online EdD in Global Sport Leadership is a 60-credit program designed for working sport practitioners that can be completed in 3 years. It features asynchronous courses and global study abroad components. 

Instead of a dissertation, students undertake a doctoral capstone project. The program’s requirements include attendance at an international sporting event.

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

4. Governors State University

Governors State University’s online EdD in Interdisciplinary Leadership requires a minimum of 49 credit hours and can be completed in 3 years. The program blends synchronous and asynchronous learning, culminating in a capstone project rather than a dissertation. 

Continuous enrollment of six or more credits each semester is necessary, with completion required within 7 years.

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

5. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University’s online Doctor of Education program is a rigorous, student-centered curriculum designed for working professionals. The program focuses on social justice, systems thinking, and empirical inquiry. 

Students engage in coursework covering social determinants of education, mind-brain teaching, entrepreneurship, and technology. Instead of a traditional dissertation, students complete a Problem of Practice project.

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

6. Liberty University

Liberty University’s online EdD program features 16 specializations and 100% online, 8-week courses and allows transfer of up to 50% of credits. The 54 to 60 credit curriculum focuses on education administration, curriculum development, and learning theory. 

Instead of a dissertation, students complete a capstone project addressing real-world educational challenges.

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

7. Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University’s online EdD in Educational Policy and Organizational Design is a 100% online program with blended asynchronous and synchronous courses. The 61-credit curriculum focuses on applied research for P-12 educators and professionals. 

In place of a dissertation, students complete action research projects. The program features cohort-based learning and optional on-campus meetings. All online students pay in-state tuition.

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

8. Morehead State University

Morehead State University offers a 60-credit, online EdD program. It offers five leadership specializations: Adult and Higher Education, Career and Technical Education, Educational Technology, Exceptional Child, and P-12 Administrative. 

Unlike traditional doctorate programs with a dissertation, each path culminates in a capstone project, emphasizing practical application. Designed for completion in about 3 years, this program blends academic rigor with real-world relevance to prepare students for leadership roles in educational settings.

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

9. Nebraska Methodist College

Nebraska Methodist College’s online EdD in Education and Leadership in Healthcare is designed for working professionals. Able to be completed in 24 months full-time or 36 months part-time, it features a doctoral scholarly project instead of a traditional dissertation. 

The curriculum focuses on relationship building, reflection, and organizational awareness to transform healthcare culture.

Nebraska Methodist College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. New York University

New York University offers a 42-credit, online EdD in Leadership through its Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. 

This program is designed for working professionals across diverse sectors. It can be completed in 24 months with 15 to 20 hours of weekly commitment. Instead of a dissertation, students tackle a Problem of Practice project. Curriculum requirements include a 3-day immersive residency at a global NYU site.

NYU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

11. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University’s online EdD program offers nine specializations, including Curriculum and Teaching, Educational Leadership, and Higher Education Leadership. 

The program features a summer institute requirement and two capstone options: an applied dissertation or a strategic research project. It is designed for working professionals seeking a hands-on approach to educational leadership.

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

12. Pennsylvania Western University

PennWest’s CAEP-accredited, online Doctorate in Education Administration and Leadership offers a strategic focus on financial and administrative leadership. The program requires 39 credits for the EdD or 59 credits for the EdD with a Superintendent Letter of Eligibility. 

The curriculum offers preparation for significant educational roles. It includes an internship requirement and culminates in capstone courses rather than a dissertation.

PennWest is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

13. Rockhurst University

Rockhurst University’s online EdD in Education and Leadership is a 45-credit program with four specializations: Health Care Education, Higher Education, K-12 Leadership, and Organizational Leadership. The 100% online curriculum spans 6 semesters over 2 years. 

Students complete a capstone project instead of a dissertation. The program includes optional graduate certificates at no additional charge.

Rockhurst University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s online Executive EdD in Leadership is a 39-credit program for professionals with 10+ years of experience. 

Focusing on executive-level skills across industries, it replaces a traditional dissertation with project-based learning and a capstone project. Offering September and May start dates, the program can be completed in 2.5 years.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

15. Spalding University

Spalding University’s online EdD in Organizational Leadership is a 60-credit program designed for working professionals across industries. The curriculum focuses on strategic and ethical leadership, with courses delivered one at a time. Students complete a capstone project instead of a dissertation. 

The program can be finished in under 2 years and offers multiple start dates.

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

16. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University’s online EdD in Curriculum and Instruction is a 64-credit program designed for experienced educators. It follows a cohort model and can be completed in 4 years. 

The program features asynchronous, web-based delivery and requires three campus visits. In place of a dissertation, students complete a Record of Study focusing on community-based research.

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

17. University of Louisiana – Monroe

The University of Louisiana – Monroe’s online EdD in Curriculum and Instruction is a 60-credit program designed for educators seeking advanced leadership roles. The curriculum focuses on research-based theories, quantitative and qualitative methods, and educational foundations. 

Students choose between a capstone course or a research and dissertation course. The program features 8-week courses and five start dates annually.

The University of Louisiana – Monroe is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. University of Miami

The University of Miami’s online Doctor of Education in Applied Learning Sciences is a 45-credit program that can be completed in 2.5 years. Designed for working professionals, it emphasizes practical applications through 7-week courses. 

Instead of a dissertation, it culminates in one cumulative project designed to enhance leadership skills applicable across various educational and professional settings.

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

19. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an online EdD in Organizational Learning and Leadership for professionals with at least three years of management experience. 

Featuring live online classes and asynchronous coursework, it replaces a traditional dissertation with a capstone project addressing real-world challenges. An optional in-person immersion is available.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi offers two online doctoral programs: the EdD in Educational Administration and the EdD in Higher Education Administration. Both programs require 54 credits and can be completed in 3 years. 

Instead of a traditional dissertation, these programs conclude with a capstone project, allowing students to address real-world issues in educational settings.

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

21. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia’s EdD in Curriculum and Instruction is a 72-credit, online program for experienced educators that can be completed in 4 to 7 years. Designed for working professionals worldwide, it combines rigorous coursework with practical experiences. 

Instead of a dissertation, it concludes with a comprehensive capstone project, focusing on enhancing leadership skills and improving educational practices.

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

22. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University offers an online K-12 and Higher Education Leadership and Policy EdD for mid-career professionals. It requires 84 credits to graduate, including 30 transferred from a master’s program.

While traditional programs require a dissertation, this one culminates in a year-long capstone project. Its 3-year, cohort-based curriculum integrates online learning with practical experiences to foster leadership skills. Classes are conducted on Friday evenings and some Saturdays to allow students to continue working.

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

23. Walden University

Walden University’s online EdD program offers 13 specializations and replaces the traditional dissertation with a doctoral study project focused on real-world application. This project enables students to address practical challenges in educational settings. 

The program can be completed in approximately 3 years and seeks to prepare professionals to make significant impacts in their fields.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

24. West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University offers a 60-credit, online EdD in Educational Leadership. Three pathways are available: Rural School Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, and Educational Business and Finance. 

The curriculum features an interdisciplinary approach, annual immersion experiences, and scholarly research. Students complete two scholarly delivery requirements instead of a dissertation.

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

25. Wilmington University

Wilmington University’s online EdD in Higher Education Leadership is a 51-credit program designed for current higher education practitioners. The curriculum includes professional, research, and guided study cores. 

Instead of a dissertation, students complete a 6-credit applied inquiry project. The program features enhanced asynchronous learning with weekly synchronous discussions and a leadership portfolio requirement.

WilmU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

How to Choose an Ed.D. Program

Choosing to pursue a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) can seem like a daunting task, as the landscape of available programs can be vast and diverse. To aid aspiring doctoral candidates in making a well-informed decision, we’ve created a list of essential considerations for selecting an Ed.D. program.

  • Program Delivery: Decide on your preferred mode of instruction, whether it’s a fully online, on-campus, or a blended Ed.D. program, depending on your personal preferences and logistical requirements.
  • Program Duration: Evaluate whether the doctorate in education program offers part-time or full-time options that align with your current work commitments, ensuring it can be accommodated within your schedule.
  • Areas of Specialization: Assess if the available Ed.D. concentrations align with your educational and career aspirations, as this will directly impact your expertise and future career prospects.
  • Faculty Qualifications: Evaluate the expertise and engagement of Ed.D. professors within the education profession. Assess if their research interests align with your own and if their experience is relevant to your leadership objectives.
  • Financial Considerations: Investigate the availability of internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, to support your tuition costs. Additionally, consider the average loan burden of Ed.D. students and the potential for salary advancements after graduation.
  • Required Coursework: Examine the relevance, currency, and applicability of the Ed.D. course content to your current or desired professional role, ensuring the program meets your specific career needs.
  • Internship & Practical Experiences: Determine if you are interested in supervised leadership opportunities, as certain programs may include internships or fieldwork components to enhance practical skills.
  • Dissertation or Culminating Project: Choose between a traditional dissertation or an alternative final project as the culmination of your doctoral studies, depending on your preferences and academic goals.

Keep in mind that the importance of each factor may vary based on individual values and priorities. Considering these key points will help you make an informed decision when selecting the most suitable Ed.D. program to meet your academic and career goals.

Curious about your options? Click “Find My Program” to discover what’s right for you.