What’s an Ed.D. Degree?
All you need to know and more.
Ed.D. Degrees Explained
An Ed.D. degree, also known as a doctor of education, is a terminal degree designed to equip those with master’s degrees to become advanced educational leaders. These programs build upon your professional experience, adding the innovative leadership skills and applied research expertise needed to positively influence learning environments.
Earn an Ed.D. Degree Online
American College of Education (ACE) is an accredited institution offering career-oriented, quality online doctoral degrees that don’t break the bank. Doctoral programs cost less than $25,0001 and can be completed in three years.2 This means building your career can fit within your schedule and budget.
Preparing Educational Leaders for Today’s Learning Environments
When educators become students at ACE, we know we’ve got high expectations to meet. Regardless of the field, our coursework addresses the evolving needs of education by integrating the latest technology and evidence-based research. ACE understands the unique needs of educators, principals and administrators, especially because many of our faculty and staff have held these jobs themselves.
in the nation for most doctoral degrees conferred in educational leadership and administration*
*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Accessed July 2, 2026.
Choose the Right Path for Your Career Goals
Sometimes Ed.D. programs are confused with doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) programs because they both prepare students for advanced roles. We’ve compiled a comparison table to highlight key differences.
| Ed.D. Programs at ACE | Ph.D. in Education Programs | |
|---|---|---|
| Career Goal | Superintendents, university deans, educational consultants | University professors, academic researchers, policy analysts |
| Focus | Applied research, complex problem-solving, educational leadership | Original research, educational theory, academic writing |
| Work Environments | School districts, K-12 settings, academic organizations | Higher education, research firms |
FAQs About Ed.D. Degrees
What is the difference between a Ph.D. and Ed.D. degree?
An Ed.D. is a doctorate in education, while a Ph.D. is a doctor of philosophy. Both are terminal degrees. However, Ed.D.s are focused more on practical application while Ph.D.s are geared toward theory and original research. Ed.D.s are a great fit for those who want to lead others and implement change, while Ph.D.s are better for careers in research or academia. For a full comparison of these two types of doctorates, read our guide.
What can you do with an Ed.D. degree?
Even though these programs are degrees in education, they apply in more settings than academic environments. Many Ed.D. graduates pursue leadership roles in various fields like education, nursing, public health and more.
How long does it take to complete an Ed.D. degree program?
At ACE, an Ed.D. can be completed in three years.2 This may vary for other institutions.
What should you look for in an online Ed.D. program?
When evaluating an online Ed.D. program, consider factors such as institutional accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, program format, cost, estimated time to completion and whether the program aligns with your professional goals.
What does Ed.D. degree stand for?
An Ed.D. degree is a doctor of education degree.
What are the typical Ed.D. requirements for admission?
At ACE, prospective doctoral students must submit official transcripts showing completion of a master’s degree or higher with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Our Ed.D. in Nursing Education has an additional requirement of an active, unencumbered RN license. We do not require the GRE, an essay or an interview. Requirements may vary for other institutions.
Can an Ed.D. help you qualify for educational leadership roles?
Yes. Some educational leadership positions may prefer or require a doctoral degree, depending on the employer.
1This is an estimated value of the cost for tuition and fees. Amounts may vary depending on number of transfer credits applied to the selected program hours, the pace and satisfactory completion of the selected program, receipt of institutional scholarship and/or grant amounts, or adjustments to tuition or fees as described in the Catalog Right to Modify Tuition section. State sales and use tax will apply where required by law.
2This is the estimated time to completion. Actual completion time may vary depending on the number of transfer credits applied, availability of courses, a satisfactory pace, successful course completion and meeting dissertation milestones as required.
A Note About Licensure:
Graduates of online degree programs which are approved to lead to licensure, endorsement or certification may be subject to additional requirements for the receipt of initial licensure, endorsement or certification in the state in which they intend to teach or administrate.
Students are strongly encouraged to check licensure requirements in the state in which they intend to teach or administrate to determine whether they are eligible for licensure, endorsement or certification.
It is vitally important that students know and be continually aware of the requirements for licensure in their state. State licensing requirements and licensing agency information may be found here.
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