The field of education is one of the most rewarding careers available, no doubt. When tasked with the responsibility of shaping the minds of children or young adults, of course, your own personal education is of the utmost importance, as well. As a teacher, you want to give your best to your students, all while improving your own portfolio.
If you wish to further your own education, then earning an online Doctor of Education degree is the next step for you. The usual focus is on doing research, teaching and honing your leadership skills. There are two options for you. You may choose to earn your Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) degree, which is geared towards those who wish to enter the field of research and exploration in their chosen field. If you are interested in advancing your career in education as a leader, then the Doctorate of Education (EdD) degree would be better suited for you.
Common positions in this field will include teaching opportunities at the college or university level, as well as, a school administration position. Other careers may include a school district superintendent, school principal or director of admissions at a college or university.
To qualify for a doctorate program, you will need to presently hold a master’s degree in education. Some schools will require a 3.0 grade point average, as well.
When earning your online Doctor degree of Education, you will learn to sharpen your problem-solving and decision-making skills, in addition to, your leadership skills. You will learn about advanced techniques used in research, as well as, focusing on the business related aspects of education, data and analytics, organizational development, social issues and the legalities and ethics of teaching. As a student earning their doctorate degree, you will learn about budgeting and finance, research and assessment techniques, how to present effective lectures, administering tests, assigning and grading work, research methodology, curriculum design and, in some instances, dealing with parents about student conduct or learning progress. You may also learn about the history and philosophy of the educational process.
If convenience and flexibility are important, you may choose to earn your degree through an online program. Online options are readily available. Through your online Doctor of Education program, you will be required to present a dissertation of original work. Although a dissertation can be a challenge, it may also be the most important part of your degree program. You may also choose to focus your attention on a specialized area of concentration, for example, as in special education or in educational leadership.
The job growth for positions such as, principals, post-secondary administrators and instructors is expected to rise between 6 – 13%between now and 2024. Salaries can vary between $72,470 – $90,410 annually, depending on experience, position and job location.
Earning your online Doctorate degree in Education is a wise decision. Although it will require some time and determination, your efforts will not go unnoticed by your employer, colleagues or your students.
If you have an interest in this field, please see our choices for the Top 20 Online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) programs.