What is an Ed.D. Degree?
A Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) is a terminal professional degree designed for educators, leaders, and school administration who seek to apply research-based strategies to real-world challenges in education. Unlike a Ph.D. in Education, which is typically research-focused and geared toward those pursuing careers in academia, an Ed.D. emphasizes practical application, leadership development, and policy implementation. This degree is ideal for individuals aspiring to lead schools, districts, colleges, universities, government agencies, or non-profit organizations dedicated to educational advancement.
Rowan University’s online doctoral programs in education are designed to equip professionals with the advanced knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to lead and innovate across educational settings. Through a combination of academic coursework and practical application, these programs prepare graduates to address complex challenges in areas such as P–12 education, higher education, community colleges, and nurse education.
What Can You Do With an Online Ed.D. Degree?
An online Ed.D. opens the door to a wide range of leadership, instructional, and administrative roles across the education landscape and beyond. Whether you’re focused on K–12 schools, higher education, workforce development, or health professions, an Ed.D. can help you move into high-impact positions where you can influence systems, support learners, and drive meaningful change.
Graduates of online doctoral programs in education are well-prepared for roles such as:
- School and District Leadership: Including principals, superintendents, and curriculum leaders overseeing educational programs and policies.
- College and University Administration: From academic affairs to student services, leaders help shape strategic direction and improve outcomes in postsecondary settings.
- Educational Policy and Advocacy: Professionals in government, nonprofits, and policy organizations who influence and implement educational reforms.
- Instructional Design and Training: Leaders managing learning and development in academic, healthcare, and corporate settings.
- Consulting, Teaching, and Research: Experts who guide institutions, teach at the college level, or conduct applied research to advance educational practice.
With a strong foundation in leadership, research, and applied theory, Ed.D. graduates are positioned to take on influential roles in their fields—helping to transform education at every level.
Advancing Your Career with Online Ed.D. Programs
Pursuing an online Ed.D. degree provides professionals with the expertise needed to tackle the evolving challenges in education. The program fosters skills in strategic decision-making, policy analysis, and organizational leadership, all of which are essential for advancing to higher-level positions. Graduates of this program gain a competitive edge in the job market and are prepared to lead transformative initiatives that improve educational outcomes at all levels.
Additionally, an Ed.D. program offers invaluable networking opportunities, connecting students with experienced faculty, peers, and industry leaders. These connections can provide mentorship, career opportunities, and collaborations that enhance professional growth.
Salary and Job Outlook for Ed.D. Graduates
Earning an Ed.D. online can lead to enhanced earning potential and career stability. National salary data shows that professionals with an Ed.D. often earn significantly higher salaries than those with a master’s degree. According to Salary.com, ranges might include:
- School Administrators: $100,000 – $140,000+
- Higher Education Administrators: $120,000 – $250,000+
- Education Consultants and Policy Advisors: $90,000 – $135,000+
The demand for skilled educational leaders continues to grow as schools, colleges, and organizations seek experts who can implement innovative solutions to improve learning environments. With an Ed.D., professionals gain the credentials and expertise necessary to step into influential roles where they can make a lasting impact.
Rowan University’s Online Ed.D. Program Structure and Specializations
Rowan University’s online doctoral programs in education are structured to support working professionals through a flexible and rigorous curriculum. The online program consists of three phases, incorporating coursework, applied research, and comprehensive assessments that prepare students for leadership challenges. Specialization tracks allow students to tailor their studies to their career goals and include:
- P-12 Education Leadership: This online Ed.D. program track is designed for educators who are looking to gain advanced knowledge in the field, with a special focus on developing the leadership skills and dispositions necessary to enact lasting and meaningful change within the preschool through secondary school levels.
- Higher Education: This online Ed.D. program track is designed for educators who are looking to gain advanced knowledge in the field of higher education, with a special focus on administration and leadership at the post-secondary/four-year college level.
- Community College Leadership Initiative (CCLI®): This online Ed.D. program track is designed for individuals working in the community college sector who are interested in gaining advanced knowledge in the higher education field with a special focus on community college.
- Nurse Educator: This online Ed.D. program track is designed for educators or nurses who are looking to gain advanced knowledge in the field of education with a special focus on educating nurses.
Take the Next Step Toward Educational Leadership with an Online Doctor of Education
The journey to earning an Ed.D. is both rigorous and rewarding. Rowan University’s online doctor of education programs provide the tools, mentorship, and experiences necessary to make a lasting impact in education. Whether your goal is to lead a school district, shape higher education policies, or drive change in educational organizations, Rowan’s online Ed.D. programs offer a pathway to achieving your aspirations.
Apply today to take the next step in advancing your career with an online Ed.D. from Rowan University!
Interested in Learning More About Online Doctoral Programs in Education?
Explore these related blogs to deepen your understanding of online doctoral education and leadership career paths:
- Choosing the Right Online Doctorate in Education Program — Learn how to select the best doctoral program that fits your goals and lifestyle.
- Can an Online Ed.D. Help You Become a Principal or Superintendent? — Discover how an Ed.D. can prepare you for school and district leadership roles.
- Can a Doctorate in Educational Leadership Help You Lead a Community College? — Explore the path to leading a community college through specialized doctoral training.