If you’re a higher education professional considering your next career move, you may be asking: Can you earn a doctorate in higher education online—and will it truly prepare you to lead? Rowan University says yes. Our fully online Doctorate in Higher Education is designed for real-world leaders ready to drive change in colleges, universities, and educational systems. This degree is perfect 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.
Whether you’re working full-time, managing a team, or balancing family life, Rowan’s online Ed.D programs support your growth—on your schedule, and with the structure and flexibility you need to succeed.
Why Earn a Doctorate in Higher Education?
A doctorate in higher education is a terminal degree that positions you for leadership roles in postsecondary institutions, government agencies, and education-focused nonprofits. It’s an opportunity to sharpen your leadership skills, develop policy expertise, and build the knowledge needed to support diverse student populations.
This degree is ideal for professionals who want to:
- Advance into roles like dean, provost, or vice president
- Lead institutional change with a focus on equity and student success
- Design and assess academic programs
- Influence public policy in higher education
- Manage student services, enrollment, or academic affairs at a senior level
Rowan’s online Ed.D in Higher Education delivers the rigorous, practice-based education needed to turn your passion for leadership into measurable impact.
Why Choose Rowan’s Online Ed.D in Higher Education?
The Higher Education specialization within Rowan’s online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program offers more than just flexibility—it’s built for meaningful, personalized learning experiences that help you grow into the leader you aspire to be.
Here’s what makes Rowan’s program stand out:
- 100% online format with no required campus visits
- Asynchronous coursework so you can learn on your own schedule
- Optional live virtual sessions (like office hours or workshops) for deeper engagement
- Faculty with real-world higher education leadership experience
- A focus on social justice, equity, and applied leadership
You’ll get the support of a collaborative cohort, regular interaction with professors, and a course design that fits your learning style and professional life.
Inside the Online Learning Experience at Rowan
Rowan’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education extends into every part of the online learning experience. We understand that different students have different learning styles, which is why our courses are carefully structured to provide flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor.
Program Format and Structure:
- Most courses are delivered asynchronously, allowing you to log in and complete assignments during times that work best for you
- Some courses offer optional synchronous elements—such as virtual office hours or review sessions—for students who prefer real-time interaction
- Clear course structures and consistent pacing help you stay on track without the stress of rigid deadlines
This model is ideal for working professionals who need a degree that adapts to their lives—not the other way around.
Unmatched Support for Online Students
At Rowan, online students receive the same level of personalized support as those on campus. You’ll have access to an entire ecosystem of resources that help you succeed—academically, personally, and professionally.
Here’s the online learning support you can count on:
- Tutoring Support: Access peer-to-peer tutoring either online or in person, depending on what works best for your schedule and learning style. For additional flexibility, you’ll also have 24/7 access to Brainfuse, a professional online tutoring platform. Whether you need help with a paper, understanding research methods, or staying on track with time management, Rowan makes sure support is always within reach.
- Virtual Workshop Series: Join online workshops designed to help you build academic confidence. Topics include Time Management, Motivation, Study Tips, Well-Being, and more—all led by Rowan’s Academic Support Programs team.
- Academic and Career Advising: Get tailored guidance to help you make the most of your studies and align your coursework with your career goals.
Program Snapshot
- Degree: Ed.D in Educational Leadership: Higher Education
- Delivery Format: 100% Online
- Credit Hours: 60 total (48 coursework + 12 dissertation)
- Program Length: ~48 months (with flexible pacing)
- Start Terms: Summer and Fall modules
- Application Deadlines:
- Early Decision – February 15
- Summer Entry – June 1
- Fall Entry – July 1
For the most up-to-date tuition information and cost per credit, please visit the program page.
What You’ll Learn: Curriculum Overview
Rowan’s online Ed.D in Higher Education program blends leadership theory with practical application. Every course is designed to help you connect what you’re learning to the work you’re already doing in higher education.
Core Courses Include:
- Leadership for Social Justice
- Public Policy, Ethics, and Contemporary Issues
- Sustainable Institutional Change
- Program Evaluation and Institutional Research
- Writing a Research Literature Review
Specialized Higher Education Courses:
- History and Context of American Higher Education
- Higher Education Governance and Leadership
- Legal and Administrative Issues in Postsecondary Education
- Leadership and Advocacy for Student Success
You’ll also complete a dissertation-in-practice that focuses on a real-world challenge in your current role or organization—allowing you to contribute meaningful research that matters.
To view the full course list and official program requirements, visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
What Can You Do with an Ed.D in Higher Education?
Graduates of Rowan’s program are prepared for advanced leadership roles across postsecondary education, including:
- Dean or Assistant Dean
- Provost or Vice President of Academic Affairs
- Director of Student Affairs, Advising, or Retention
- Institutional Research Analyst
- Higher Education Consultant or Policy Advocate
Whether you’re in a university, community college, nonprofit, or policy organization, a doctorate in higher education positions you as a leader who can shape the future of the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I earn my Ed.D in Higher Education online?
Yes. Rowan University offers a fully online Ed.D in Higher Education that’s designed for working professionals and current or aspiring leaders in postsecondary education.
What’s the difference between a Ph.D and Ed.D in Higher Education?
An Ed.D focuses on applied leadership and solving real-world challenges in education settings, while a Ph.D is more research-focused and designed for those pursuing academic or theoretical careers.
Is the Ed.D program at Rowan flexible for working professionals?
Yes. Rowan’s online Ed.D program is asynchronous, allowing you to complete coursework on your own schedule. Most students finish in about 48 months while working full-time.
What support is available to online students?
At Rowan, online students receive the same personalized support as those on campus. We’re committed to helping you succeed every step of the way with online learning resources designed for your academic and personal growth, including:
- Virtual academic advising and career coaching tailored to your goals
- 24/7 access to Brainfuse, a live online tutoring platform
- Peer-to-peer tutoring for collaborative support
- Virtual workshops on time management, study strategies, motivation, and well-being
Does Rowan offer other online Ed.D tracks?
Yes. Rowan University offers an additional three fully online Ed.D specializations beyond Higher Education, allowing you to tailor your doctorate in educational leadership to your specific career goals.
Here are the available tracks:
- Ed.D in Educational Leadership: P-12: Designed for educators aiming to lead in school districts, with a focus on instructional leadership, educational equity, and district-level change.
- Ed.D in Educational Leadership: Community College: Created for professionals in the community college sector seeking advanced leadership roles and deeper understanding of student advocacy and governance.
- Ed.D in Educational Leadership: Nurse Educator: Ideal for nurses and healthcare educators who want to lead academic nursing programs and train the next generation of healthcare professionals.
All programs are offered 100% online, with flexible, asynchronous coursework and personalized student support—making it easier to earn your Ed.D while continuing to work full-time.
Ready to Take the Next Step and Pursue Your Ed.D Online?
If you’ve been searching for a flexible, mission-driven, and fully online Ed.D in Higher Education, Rowan University is here to help you succeed. With a strong foundation in leadership and the support of experienced faculty and advisors, you’ll be equipped to make a real difference in higher education.
Apply now or request information today to learn more. Your next chapter as a leader in higher education starts here—with Rowan.