Best Online Doctorate in Educational Administration
Earning a PhD in Education Administration Degree
An educational administration doctorate develops leadership and entrepreneurial skills, preparing graduates to oversee academic organizations.
Educators often pursue graduate degrees to expand their career prospects and increase their earning potential. An online doctorate in education administration helps educators advance into leadership roles. With a doctorate, graduates can work as K-12 education administrators and higher education administrators, earning median salaries of over $100,000 per year.
During online doctoral programs in educational administration, graduate students choose specializations and complete advanced coursework in educational leadership, school administration, and higher education administration. Enrollees strengthen their research and analytical skills through coursework and a dissertation. Online learning formats prioritize flexibility, which appeals to working educators who need to balance school with their careers.
This page explores the best online doctoral programs in educational administration. Prospective applicants can use our rankings to find the right fit for their interests, budgets, and career goals.
The Best Online Doctorate in Educational Administration Programs
Andrews University
Berrien Springs, MI- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in higher education administration program at Andrews University offers an online option for doctoral students. Degree-seekers benefit from the private university's flexible format. Doctoral candidates receive research support, library access, and career advising.
The doctoral program includes a rigorous curriculum in education administration. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates begin working on an original dissertation project. As the highest degree in education administration, the doctorate meets requirements for research, academic, and leadership roles.
Doctoral students attending the accredited institution online qualify for several forms of financial aid. Contact the education administration program for more information about doctoral admissions.
Andrews University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 918
Online Master's Programs: 7
Online Doctoral Programs: 6
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $27,216
- In-State$28,992
- Out-of-state$28,992
- In-State$27,216
- Out-of-state$27,216
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled3,390
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
- Jonesboro, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Doctoral students seeking an online program benefit from the doctorate of education in educational leadership program at Arkansas State University. At the public institution, degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible environment. Doctoral candidates strengthen their research skills and present in academic conferences.
The doctoral program includes a rigorous curriculum in educational leadership. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates complete a dissertation that contributes original research to the field. With an education administration doctorate, graduates pursue academic, research, and industry roles.
Doctoral students qualify for several forms of financial aid at the accredited institution. Reach out to the program to learn more about the application process and start dates.
Arkansas State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 7,939
Online Master's Programs: 19
Online Doctoral Programs: 2
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $4,986
- In-State$6,540
- Out-of-state$13,500
- In-State$4,986
- Out-of-state$9,972
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled13,356
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Belhaven University
- Jackson, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in educational leadership program at Belhaven University enrolls online learners. The private university provides flexible enrollment options to meet the needs of diverse degree-seekers. Doctoral students strengthen their research skills and present in academic conferences.
Learners complete doctoral coursework in the online educational leadership program. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation. An education administration doctorate leads to job opportunities in research, academia, and leadership.
Doctoral students who attend the accredited institution in an online format qualify for several types of financial aid. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about research support, financial aid opportunities, and admission requirements.
Belhaven University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,200
Online Master's Programs: 14
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,170
- In-State$25,826
- Out-of-state$25,826
- In-State$10,170
- Out-of-state$10,170
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled4,574
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
City University of Seattle
- Seattle, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Doctoral students seeking an online program benefit from the doctor of education in leadership program at City University of Seattle. With its flexible format, the private university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate. Doctoral candidates receive support services like career advising and research support.
The doctoral program incorporates advanced education administration coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, program participants conduct research for their dissertation. Graduates with an education administration doctorate pursue roles in research, academia, and leadership.
Online doctoral students at the accredited institution qualify for several forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about financial aid opportunities, admissions requirements, and start dates.
City University of Seattle at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,568
Online Master's Programs: 16
Online Doctoral Programs: 2
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,430
- In-State$13,120
- Out-of-state$13,120
- In-State$11,430
- Out-of-state$11,430
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled1,960
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment80%
- AccreditationYes
Clark Atlanta University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Clark Atlanta University offers a top-ranked online doctor of education in higher education leadership program. The private university offers flexible enrollment options for degree-seekers. Doctoral students receive research support throughout the program.
The online education administration program requires that participants complete doctoral coursework. Doctoral candidates also pass comprehensive examinations and conduct research for their dissertation. An education administration doctorate leads to job opportunities in research, academia, and leadership.
Online doctoral students at the accredited institution pay for their degree with scholarships, fellowships, and loans. Reach out to the higher education leadership program to learn more about admission requirements.
Clark Atlanta University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 31
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $16,290
- In-State$20,888
- Out-of-state$20,888
- In-State$16,290
- Out-of-state$16,290
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled3,920
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment1%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University Irvine
- Irvine, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in leadership program at Concordia University Irvine offers a doctorate in an online learning format. Degree-seekers benefit from the private university's flexible format. Doctoral students receive research support and participate in scholarly events.
The online education administration program requires that participants complete doctoral coursework. Doctoral candidates move through the program by passing exams and researching a dissertation project. With a doctorate in education administration, graduates pursue academic, research, and industry roles.
Online doctoral students at the accredited institution qualify for several forms of financial aid. Prospective applicants can contact the program for more about financial aid and admission requirements.
Concordia University Irvine at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,478
Online Master's Programs: 11
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,953
- In-State$35,990
- Out-of-state$35,990
- In-State$7,953
- Out-of-state$7,953
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled3,911
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in educational leadership and management program at Drexel University offers a flexible route to a doctorate. Degree-seekers benefit from the private university's flexible format. Doctoral students also benefit from research support, career advising, and library access.
The online program requires that participants complete doctoral-level coursework. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates conduct research and defend an original dissertation that contributes to the field. As the highest degree in education administration, the doctorate meets requirements for research, academic, and leadership roles.
Doctoral students qualify for federal financial aid and fellowships at the accredited institution. Reach out to the program to learn more about financial aid opportunities, admissions requirements, and start dates.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,300
Online Master's Programs: 39
Online Doctoral Programs: 2
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $35,181
- In-State$52,146
- Out-of-state$52,146
- In-State$35,181
- Out-of-state$35,181
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled24,205
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
East Tennessee State University
- Johnson City, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in higher education leadership program at East Tennessee State University uses an online learning format. With flexible enrollment options, the public school helps degree-seekers earn a doctorate. Doctoral students participate in career counseling and benefit from research support.
The online education administration program requires that participants complete doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates propose a dissertation topic and conduct research in their specialty area. An education administration doctorate leads to job opportunities in research, academia, and leadership.
Doctoral students attending the accredited institution online qualify for several forms of financial aid. Reach out to the higher education leadership program to learn more about admission requirements.
East Tennessee State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 7,986
Online Master's Programs: 2
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $8,640
- In-State$7,340
- Out-of-state$25,487
- In-State$8,640
- Out-of-state$23,760
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled14,191
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Edgewood College
- Madison, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Doctoral students seeking an online program benefit from the doctor of education in higher education and leadership studies program at Edgewood College. With its flexible format, the private university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate. Doctoral students participate in career advising and gain research skills.
The online education administration program requires a minimum number of credits of doctoral coursework. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research for an original dissertation or project. As the highest degree in education administration, the doctorate trains graduates for academic, research, and leadership careers.
Doctoral students qualify for federal financial aid and fellowships at the accredited institution. Contact the higher education and leadership studies program to learn more about financial aid, enrollment options, and start dates.
Edgewood College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 565
Online Master's Programs: 6
Online Doctoral Programs: 3
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $17,856
- In-State$30,600
- Out-of-state$30,600
- In-State$17,856
- Out-of-state$17,856
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate72%
- Students Enrolled2,038
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Endicott College
- Beverly, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in educational leadership in higher education program at Endicott College offers a flexible route to a doctorate. Degree-seekers benefit from the flexible enrollment options at the private university. Doctoral students receive research support, library access, and career advising.
The doctoral program incorporates advanced higher education leadership coursework. The program also requires passing scores on a comprehensive examination and the successful defense of an original dissertation project. As the highest degree in education administration, the doctorate meets requirements for research, academic, and leadership roles.
Doctoral students pay for the program with federal financial aid, fellowships, and scholarships. Reach out to the higher education leadership program to learn more about admission requirements.
Endicott College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,949
Online Master's Programs: 8
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $12,555
- In-State$33,304
- Out-of-state$33,304
- In-State$12,555
- Out-of-state$12,555
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled4,741
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Hampton University
- Hampton, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of philosophy in educational management program at Hampton University offers an online option for doctoral students. At the private institution, degree-seekers take doctoral classes in a flexible format. Doctoral students work closely with faculty mentors and career advisors.
During the online education administration program, learners take doctoral courses to earn their degree. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research for an original dissertation or project. Professionals with an education administration doctorate work in academia, research, and leadership roles.
At the accredited institution, doctoral students qualify for several forms of financial aid. Prospective applicants can contact the program directly to learn more about research support, financial aid opportunities, and admission requirements.
Hampton University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 490
Online Master's Programs: 3
Online Doctoral Programs: 3
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $12,475
- In-State$24,950
- Out-of-state$24,950
- In-State$12,475
- Out-of-state$12,475
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled4,293
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment11%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Doctoral students seeking an online program benefit from the doctor of philosophy in educational administration: higher education leadership program at Indiana State University. At the public institution, degree-seekers complete a doctorate in a flexible environment. Doctoral students participate in career counseling and benefit from research support.
During the online education leadership program, learners complete advanced coursework in the discipline. After completing the coursework, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation or doctoral project. Graduates with an education leadership doctorate pursue roles in research, academia, and leadership.
Doctoral students qualify for fellowships, scholarships, and federal financial aid programs at the accredited institution. Contact the education leadership program to learn more about financial aid, enrollment options, and start dates.
Indiana State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,748
Online Master's Programs: 18
Online Doctoral Programs: 4
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,542
- In-State$9,036
- Out-of-state$19,960
- In-State$7,542
- Out-of-state$14,814
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled12,144
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Lamar University
- Beaumont, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online doctor of education in educational leadership program, offered by Lamar University, ranks as a top program in the field. The public university provides flexible enrollment options to meet the needs of diverse degree-seekers. Doctoral students also benefit from research support, career advising, and library access.
In the online educational leadership program, learners take advanced doctoral coursework. After completing the coursework, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation or doctoral project. As the terminal degree in educational leadership, the program leads to career opportunities in academia, research, and industry.
At the accredited institution, doctoral students can use fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to pay for their degree. Contact the program for more information about research support and financial aid.
Lamar University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 11,310
Online Master's Programs: 13
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,324
- In-State$6,032
- Out-of-state$16,160
- In-State$6,324
- Out-of-state$13,920
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate84%
- Students Enrolled15,460
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in educational leadership program at Liberty University offers a flexible route to a doctorate. At the private university, degree-seekers participate in virtual classrooms to earn a doctorate. Doctoral students engage in advanced research and benefit from support services.
During the online educational leadership program, learners complete advanced coursework in the discipline. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates spend 1-2 years researching and writing their dissertation. With a doctorate in educational leadership, professionals work in academia, research, and leadership roles.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements for financial aid support. Reach out to the program to learn more about the application process and start dates.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 78,511
Online Master's Programs: 67
Online Doctoral Programs: 9
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,980
- In-State$15,417
- Out-of-state$15,417
- In-State$7,980
- Out-of-state$7,980
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled85,586
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
Nebraska Methodist College
- Omaha, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in education and leadership in healthcare program at Nebraska Methodist College  appeals to doctoral students seeking an online route to their degree. At the private institution, degree-seekers take doctoral classes in a flexible format. Doctoral candidates participate in career counseling and benefit from research support.
During the online education administration program, learners take doctoral courses to earn their degree. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation. With a doctorate in education administration, graduates pursue academic, research, and industry roles.
Online doctoral students at the accredited institution qualify for several forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about the application process and start dates.
Nebraska Methodist College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 696
Online Master's Programs: 6
Online Doctoral Programs: 5
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,955
- In-State$15,422
- Out-of-state$15,422
- In-State$11,955
- Out-of-state$11,955
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled1,128
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in higher education leadership at Nova Southeastern University appeals to learners seeking an online doctorate. The private university provides flexible enrollment options to meet the needs of diverse degree-seekers. Doctoral students engage in advanced research and benefit from support services.
In the online education administration program, learners take advanced doctoral coursework. The program also requires passing scores on a comprehensive examination and the successful defense of an original dissertation project. As the terminal degree in education administration, the doctoral program trains graduates for roles in academia, research, and industry.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements for financial aid support. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about research support, financial aid opportunities, and admission requirements.
Nova Southeastern University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,298
Online Master's Programs: 46
Online Doctoral Programs: 9
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $19,665
- In-State$31,150
- Out-of-state$31,150
- In-State$19,665
- Out-of-state$19,665
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled20,576
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online doctor of education in higher education leadership and management program at Regent University ranks as one of the best degrees in the education administration field. The private university offers flexible enrollment options for degree-seekers. Doctoral students participate in career counseling and benefit from research support.
The online education administration program requires that participants complete advanced doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates begin working on an original dissertation project. With a education administration doctorate, graduates pursue academic, research, and industry roles.
Doctoral students who enroll online at the accredited institution qualify for fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about the application process and start dates.
Regent University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,507
Online Master's Programs: 37
Online Doctoral Programs: 12
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $15,552
- In-State$17,220
- Out-of-state$17,220
- In-State$15,552
- Out-of-state$15,552
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled10,365
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan University
- Glassboro, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Rowan University offers a top-ranked online doctor of education in educational leadership - higher education program. At the public institution, degree-seekers take doctoral classes in a flexible format. Doctoral students conduct research and participate in academic conferences.
In the online educational leadership program, learners complete doctoral coursework and strengthen advanced skills. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates propose a dissertation topic and conduct research in their specialty area. An educational leadership doctorate leads to job opportunities in research, academia, and leadership.
Doctoral students who enroll online at the accredited institution qualify for fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid. Contact the program for more information about research support and financial aid.
Rowan University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 6,694
Online Master's Programs: 7
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $12,879
- In-State$10,076
- Out-of-state$18,908
- In-State$12,879
- Out-of-state$12,879
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled19,618
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Southwest Baptist University
- Bolivar, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Doctoral students seeking an online program benefit from the doctor of education in educational leadership program at Southwest Baptist University. Degree-seekers benefit from the private university's flexible format. Doctoral students participate in career advising and gain research skills.
The online educational leadership program requires a minimum number of credits of doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates spend 1-2 years researching and writing their dissertation. As the highest degree in education administration, the doctorate trains graduates for academic, research, and leadership careers.
Doctoral students pay for the program with federal financial aid, fellowships, and scholarships. Reach out to the program to learn more about financial aid opportunities, admissions requirements, and start dates.
Southwest Baptist University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,145
Online Master's Programs: 2
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,004
- In-State$23,600
- Out-of-state$23,600
- In-State$5,004
- Out-of-state$5,004
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled3,281
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Southwestern College
- Winfield, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The doctor of education in educational leadership program at Southwestern College offers an online option for doctoral students. Thanks to the flexible format, the private institution makes it easier to complete a doctorate. Doctoral students strengthen their research skills and present in academic conferences.
The doctoral program includes a rigorous curriculum in education administration. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates choose a dissertation topic and conduct research in their specialty area. As the terminal degree in education administration, the program prepares graduates for academic, research, and industry positions.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements for financial aid support. Reach out to the educational leadership program to learn more about admission requirements.
Southwestern College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 905
Online Master's Programs: 8
Online Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,340
- In-State$31,500
- Out-of-state$31,500
- In-State$11,340
- Out-of-state$11,340
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled1,512
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
Doctorate in Educational Administration
2022
Online Doctorate in Educational Administration Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyEducational Administration Degree Overview
An online doctorate in educational administration prepares graduates for roles as school administrators, college administrators, education researchers, policymakers, and education professors. The degree strengthens decision-making, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Practitioner-focused doctoral programs incorporate real-world situations to train students for leadership roles in education.
Many doctoral programs use specializations to tailor coursework to specific careers. For example, many institutions offer specializations for superintendents, higher education administrators, and education policymakers. Other concentrations include special education administration, international education, and learning technologies.
During a doctoral program, graduate students take core courses and electives in their specializations and typically complete a comprehensive examination to demonstrate mastery. After coursework is completed, doctoral candidates research and write a dissertation. Many Ed.D. programs also incorporate an internship or practicum to help students develop practical experience.
Professionals with doctorates in education work at the highest levels of the field. At the K-12 level, they can work as principals and superintendents. In higher education, they can pursue research roles or work as higher education administrators.
What Is the Difference Between an Ed.D. and Ph.D. in Educational Administration?
At the doctoral level, graduate students can pursue Ed.D. or Ph.D. degrees in educational administration. An Ed.D. trains students to work in a secondary or administrative teaching environment, while a Ph.D. focuses on research and academia.
Both degrees require coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation, but they differ in some key ways. An Ed.D. typically requires three years, while a Ph.D. takes 4-5 years. With an Ed.D., graduates can work in school administration and higher education administration, while a Ph.D. leads to careers in academia and research.
Common Specializations in Educational Administration
During an online doctorate in educational administration, incoming degree-seekers use specializations to focus their coursework. Common specializations include school leadership, higher education, and administrative licensure, all offering focused coursework that prepares graduates for specific career paths.
Administrative Licensure
Some doctoral programs offer a licensure track to prepare graduates for school administrator licenses. Coursework covers school leadership, instructional supervision, and human resource management in education. This specialization may focus on principal preparation, superintendent licensure, or other administrative roles. Most programs with licensure options train graduates for roles in the public school system.
School Leadership
A school leadership specialization emphasizes planning, management, and administrative abilities at the school level. Educators and administrators in school leadership concentrations study community engagement, instructional leadership, and data analysis. The degree strengthens administrative skills and helps educators advance their careers.
Higher Education
In a higher education specialization, doctoral students learn best practices for managing student services and administration at the college level. Coursework focuses on evaluating institutional and student needs, designing and implementing programs, and evaluating program effectiveness. Graduates pursue careers as college and university administrators.
PreK-12 Education
A concentration in preK-12 education focuses on administration and leadership at the preschool, elementary, and secondary levels. Doctoral students take courses in school leadership, data analysis, and curriculum development. Some concentrations meet licensure requirements for principals. The specialization also explores research at the preK-12 level, preparing graduates for policymaking and administrative roles.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Doctorate in Educational Administration Program?
Earning an online doctorate in education administration typically takes around three years for full-time students. Some programs offer an accelerated route to the degree, which can take as little as two years. Program length depends on several factors, including program requirements, the student’s enrollment status, and whether the school uses a cohort model.
Online doctorates can use either synchronous or asynchronous delivery. Synchronous courses use live meetings, while asynchronous courses have no set login times — only assignment deadlines. Working professionals or doctoral candidates with busy schedules may prefer asynchronous delivery.
Accreditation Educational Administration Degree Programs
Prospective students should always choose regionally accredited institutions for doctoral programs. Regionally accredited universities meet the highest standards for awarding degrees.
Educational administration programs can also hold programmatic accreditation from specialized accrediting agencies, such as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. This agency evaluates programs based on their student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and graduation requirements.
Paying for an Educational Administration Degree
Doctoral students can pay for their degrees with savings, scholarships, fellowships, and student loans — or some combination thereof. Graduate students qualify for many of the same financial aid opportunities as undergraduates.
Graduate students can receive federal financial aid, including student loans and work-study wages. To qualify for federal aid, degree-seekers must submit Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms for every year they are in school.
FAFSA automatically considers graduate learners independent students when determining their federal student aid eligibility. Doctoral students who demonstrate financial need qualify for the federal work-study program, which connects recipients with job opportunities on campus or in their local areas.
In addition to federal aid, doctoral students often rely on institutional support to pay for their degrees. Many universities offer graduate assistantships or fellowships that include a tuition waiver and stipend. Private organizations, including professional associations, also offer fellowships for graduate learners.
Other funding sources include state financial aid, private and local scholarships, private student loans, and employer tuition assistance programs. Finally, many graduate students pay for some of their college costs out-of-pocket. An online program makes it easier to continue working while earning a degree, allowing students to maintain a steady source of income during graduate school.
Educational Administration Jobs
Educational administrators can work in several settings. At the K-12 level, they can become principals, instructional coordinators, and superintendents. These careers often require a license, and a doctorate in education administration with a licensure option qualifies graduates to apply for this credential.
Educational administrators can also work in higher education as college administrators and professors. For example, a doctorate in educational administration can lead to employment as a tenure-track professor.
Outside of education, the degree prepares graduates for roles in training and development and instructional design. Below are a few common careers for individuals with doctorates in educational administration, including median salary data and projected job growth.
Popular Questions About Educational Administration
What Is the Difference Between Educational Administration and Educational Leadership?
Both educational administration and educational leadership programs train educators for advanced positions. However, educational leadership often focuses on principal or superintendent training, while educational administration focuses on K-12 school administration and higher education administration. The top online doctoral programs in educational leadership also prepare graduates for academic roles, like professorships.
What Degree Do You Need To Be an Education Administrator?
An education administrator typically needs a master’s degree to work as a school principal or superintendent. Some roles require a doctorate, including tenure-track teaching positions in higher education.
Can You Be a School Administrator Without Being a Teacher?
Most school administrators work as teachers before moving into administrative roles. In some states, a principal must hold a teacher’s license before applying for a school administrator license. However, other administrative roles may not require classroom experience.
What Are School Administrator Duties and Responsibilities?
School administrators set policies for their schools or districts, oversee daily school operations, and manage budgets. They also direct staff, promote a welcoming learning environment, and report to the superintendent or school board.
