Ed.D. vs. Ph.D.: What’s the Difference?
Though there are often similarities in coursework, Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) programs tend to be more focused on theory and scholarship, while Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) programs focus on administrative leadership.
Both programs focus on research and solving problems, but the Ph.D. prepares students to generate new theories for understanding educational problems, while the Ed.D. aims to teach students how to apply non-theoretical solutions to the complex problems and challenges that education administrators face daily.
For those who want to become a university professor, a Ph.D. is the way to go. For those seeking leadership positions in an educational institution, school district, nonprofit organization, government agency or the private sector, an Ed.D. is the better option.
Though certainly not true in every case, oftentimes Ed.D. students are working a full-time, professional job while engaged in their studies. It’s not uncommon to have an Ed.D. class or cohort of students who all hold prominent administrative or professional positions, giving students an opportunity to learn from each other about what works in their field.
At Southern Wesleyan University (SWU), Ed.D. students build relationships and network not only with faculty, but also with each other, making strong industry connections. For more information on SWU’s Ed.D. program, click here.