Best Online Education PhD/Doctoral Degrees 2026

Earning an education doctorate is a major step for educators who want to lead schools, shape policy, conduct research, or teach at the college level. Whether you’re considering an education PhD or a professional doctorate designed for practitioners, today’s online programs make it possible to pursue advanced study without stepping away from your career.

Below, we’ll break down what an online doctorate in education looks like, how PhD and professional doctorate paths differ, and which schools offer some of the strongest options for 2026. As you keep reading, you’ll find program comparisons, cost considerations, and guidance to help you decide which path fits your goals.

What Is an Online Doctorate in Education?

An online doctorate in education is the highest academic credential in the field and generally comes in two main forms: the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education and the Doctor of Education (EdD). A PhD in education is typically research-focused and designed for scholars, researchers, and aspiring faculty members, while a professional doctorate emphasizes applied practice for leaders working in schools, districts, higher education, or education-related organizations.

Both degree types offer multiple concentrations, allowing you to tailor your studies to your career path. Common options include educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, higher education administration, education policy, instructional design, and learning sciences. While delivery formats vary by school, many online programs combine flexible coursework with research or dissertation requirements, giving working professionals a way to pursue advanced expertise without relocating or leaving their roles.

Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs

Several colleges and universities across the U.S. offer doctoral-level education programs online for working professionals. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the top online education PhD and professional doctorates available. 

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is known nationally for its scale and innovation in online learning, and that strength carries into its doctoral programs in education. The university offers online Doctor of Education pathways that focus on leadership, organizational change, and educational practice, making them a strong fit for experienced educators who want to apply research directly to workplace challenges.

Located in Tempe, Arizona, ASU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Doctoral students may benefit from structured cohort models, applied dissertation options, and institutional funding opportunities that support leadership development and scholarly work without requiring relocation.

2. Johns Hopkins University

At Johns Hopkins University, the online Doctor of Education program is built for experienced professionals who want to drive improvement across complex educational systems. The program emphasizes applied research, improvement science, and leadership strategies that translate directly to large organizations, school systems, and policy-focused roles.

Offered through the university’s School of Education, the program reflects Johns Hopkins’ long-standing research orientation and national influence in education and public policy. Doctoral students may also have access to research support and selective funding opportunities tied to leadership development and institutional impact. Johns Hopkins is based in Baltimore and is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

3. Old Dominion University

Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion University (ODU) is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The university has a long-standing reputation for serving adult learners through flexible online programs, including doctoral degrees in education designed for working professionals.

ODU’s online education doctorates emphasize leadership, instructional design, and higher education administration, with structures that support part-time enrollment and applied research. The school is especially well regarded among military-connected students and educators managing complex schedules, and doctoral candidates may benefit from institutional support options that align with career advancement rather than traditional academic pathways.

4. Pennsylvania State University World Campus

Pennsylvania State University World Campus delivers online doctoral education backed by the resources of a major public research institution. Its Doctor of Education program is designed for experienced educators seeking leadership roles in K–12 systems, higher education, or education-related organizations, with an emphasis on applied scholarship and organizational improvement.

As the online arm of Penn State, World Campus allows doctoral students to earn their degree remotely while remaining connected to faculty expertise and research infrastructure. The university is based in University Park, Pennsylvania, and is regionally accredited by the MSCHE. Students may also have access to funding opportunities and employer-aligned research projects that support professional practice.

5. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas offers online doctoral degrees in education that are geared toward experienced educators pursuing leadership and administrative roles. Its programs emphasize applied research, organizational leadership, and systemic improvement, making them a strong option for professionals working in K–12 districts, higher education, or education-focused agencies.

Based in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the University of Arkansas is regionally accredited by the HLC. Doctoral students may have access to institutional funding opportunities, research support, and flexible program structures that allow them to remain employed while completing advanced coursework and dissertation requirements.

6. University of Dayton

Located in Dayton, Ohio, the University of Dayton is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the HLC. The university offers an online Doctor of Education designed for experienced educators and administrators who want to lead change across schools, districts, and education-related organizations.

The program places a strong emphasis on ethical leadership, organizational change, and values-driven decision-making. Doctoral students may benefit from cohort-based learning, close faculty mentorship, and funding opportunities that support professional growth rather than traditional academic career paths.

7. University of Florida

The University of Florida (UF) offers online doctoral degrees in education that are well suited for educators interested in research-informed practice, curriculum development, and leadership across learning environments. Its education doctorate programs balance theory and applied inquiry, allowing students to address real challenges in schools, higher education, and policy-focused settings.

Located in Gainesville, Florida, UF is regionally accredited by the SACSCOC. Doctoral students may have access to research resources, faculty mentorship, and institutional funding opportunities that support long-term academic and professional goals.

8. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Based in Urbana and Champaign, Illinois, the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign (UIUC) brings a strong research tradition to its online doctoral education offerings. The university provides online doctoral pathways in education-related fields such as learning sciences, global studies in education, and education policy, making it a compelling option for professionals seeking advanced, research-driven roles.

Doctoral students benefit from interdisciplinary faculty expertise and access to a large public research university’s academic resources, even while studying online. The University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign is regionally accredited by the HLC, supporting the long-term value and recognition of its education doctorate programs.

9. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) offers online doctoral degrees in education that emphasize leadership, higher education administration, and applied research for professional settings. Its programs are designed for experienced educators who want to advance into senior leadership roles while maintaining full-time employment.

As a public research university with a long history of graduate education, UNL supports doctoral students through faculty mentorship, research infrastructure, and professional networks. Students may also find funding opportunities tied to research, leadership development, and institutional partnerships. UNL is regionally accredited by HLC and is based in Lincoln, Nebraska.

10. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California (USC) is widely recognized for its practitioner-focused online doctoral programs in education, particularly in leadership and organizational change. Its education doctorate offerings are structured around cohort models and applied dissertations, making them well suited for professionals seeking influence across education systems, nonprofits, and public-sector organizations.

Located in Los Angeles, California, USC is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WASC). Doctoral students may benefit from strong alumni networks, employer-aligned research projects, and selective funding options that support leadership-focused doctoral study.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university. 

We also focus on factors that matter most to doctoral students comparing education PhD programs and professional doctorates online, especially those planning to stay active in the field while earning their degree. The criteria below help us identify schools that offer high-quality, credible, and career-relevant online doctoral education options.

• Accreditation: We prioritize regionally accredited institutions to ensure education PhD online programs meet recognized academic standards and are respected by employers and other universities.
• Online availability: Programs must offer substantial online delivery designed for working professionals, not limited-access or primarily on-campus formats.
• Career alignment: We look for online education PhD programs that clearly connect coursework and research to leadership, policy, or advanced practice roles in education.
• Student outcomes: Schools are evaluated based on indicators such as graduation pathways, research support, and evidence that graduates are prepared for senior-level roles in the field.

What Will You Learn in a Doctorate in Education Program?

What you’ll study in a doctorate in education program depends largely on your chosen focus and whether you pursue a PhD or a professional doctorate. Coursework often centers on advanced research methods, data analysis, and theory, but applied programs may place greater emphasis on leadership, organizational change, or policy implementation. Students earning an education PhD online typically engage deeply with research design and scholarly inquiry, while practitioner-focused paths translate theory into practice.

Across both degree types, common areas of study include educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, higher education administration, education policy, learning sciences, and instructional design. For those pursuing leadership-oriented roles, concentrations aligned with a PhD in education leadership may focus on systems-level decision-making, equity, and institutional improvement across K–12, higher education, and nonprofit settings.

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Doctorate in Education Online?

Most online doctoral degrees in education require a significant time commitment, though timelines vary by degree type and enrollment pace. On average, a Doctor of Education can take about three to four years to complete, while a PhD in education often takes four to six years due to its heavier research and dissertation requirements.

Many online education PhD programs are designed with flexibility in mind, offering part-time enrollment options that allow students to balance doctoral study with professional responsibilities. Some schools also provide accelerated pathways, such as year-round coursework or structured dissertation support, which may help motivated students progress more efficiently through their program.

How Much Does an Online Doctorate in Education Cost?

The cost of an online doctorate in education can vary widely depending on the institution, degree type, and length of study. In general, doctoral programs in education often fall within a broad range that can span from tens of thousands of dollars to well over six figures, especially for longer research-based degrees. Professional doctorates such as the EdD may be more cost-predictable, while research-intensive PhD programs can vary based on dissertation length and enrollment pace.

It’s also important to factor in additional costs beyond tuition, including technology fees, research expenses, and potential residency or immersion requirements. When comparing online education PhD programs, looking at total program cost rather than per-term pricing can give you a clearer picture of long-term affordability.

Financial Aid for Online Doctorates in Education

Paying for a doctorate in education often involves combining multiple funding sources. Many students in online education PhD programs or professional doctorate programs rely on a mix of institutional support, federal aid, and employer benefits to manage costs.

Common financial aid options include:

• Fully funded programs: Some PhD programs offer full funding packages that may include tuition coverage, stipends, or research assistantships, though these are typically competitive and more common in research-focused tracks.
• Graduate scholarships and fellowships: Universities may offer merit-based or need-based awards specifically for doctoral students in education.
• Federal financial aid: Most accredited nonprofit institutions accept FAFSA, allowing eligible students to access federal student loans and, in some cases, grant-based aid.
• Employer tuition assistance: School districts, universities, and education-related employers may offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing doctoral credentials.
• Research and teaching assistantships: Some programs provide paid roles that help offset tuition while building academic or leadership experience.

How To Choose the Right Doctorate in Education

Choosing the right doctoral program in education takes careful thought about both your long-term goals and how you want to learn. Below are key factors to weigh as you compare online education PhD programs and other doctoral options.

PhD vs. EdD Focus 

Decide early whether your priority is research or practice. A PhD is usually geared toward academic research and scholarly careers, while a Doctor of Education (EdD) often emphasizes leadership, decision-making, and real-world application in educational settings.

Accreditation and Reputation

Always confirm that a program is regionally accredited and respected in your field. Accreditation affects transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and how employers view your degree.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

Look closely at how much of the program is truly online versus in-person. Some education PhD online options allow fully remote learning, while others require occasional residencies or synchronous sessions that may affect your schedule.

Financial Aid and Funding 

Your ability to fund doctoral study can shape your choice. Some programs offer full or partial funding, assistantships, or fellowships, while others may rely more on loans or employer support.

Program Fit and Support 

Consider student support services, mentorship opportunities, dissertation coaching, and professional networks. These elements can make a big difference in your experience and long-term success.

Career Outlook With an Online Doctorate in Education

Earning a doctorate in education can open doors to advanced roles in academia, leadership, and research. For example, postsecondary education administrators, who oversee programs, faculty, and policy at colleges and universities, is expected to see growth of about 2% from 2024 to 2034, with roughly 15,100 openings expected each year due to turnover and retirements.

For those who pursue teaching at the college level, employment for postsecondary teachers (many of whom hold doctoral degrees) is projected to grow about 7% through 2034—faster than the average for all occupations.

FAQs About the Best Online Doctorate in Education Programs

Earning a doctorate or PhD can be exciting, but finding the right program can feel stressful. Below, we’ve highlighted some frequently asked questions about the best online doctoral degrees in education to help you out.

Is an Online Doctorate in Education Worth It?

An online doctorate in education can be worth it if your career goals require advanced leadership, research, or policy expertise. These programs are often designed for experienced educators who want to move into senior roles, influence systems, or contribute original research to the field. The value depends on choosing a regionally accredited program that aligns with how you plan to use the degree, whether that’s leadership, scholarship, or advanced professional practice.

Is an Online Doctorate in Education Respected by Employers?

When earned from a regionally accredited, nonprofit institution, an online doctorate in education is generally respected by employers. Most organizations focus more on the institution’s reputation, accreditation, and your professional experience than on whether the program was completed online. Many school systems, universities, and education-focused employers now view online doctoral degrees as equivalent to on-campus options.

Who Should Consider a Doctorate in Education Program?

A doctorate in education is a strong fit for educators and administrators with several years of professional experience who want to advance into leadership, research, or policy-focused roles. This includes school leaders, higher education professionals, instructional designers, and education consultants. It’s best suited for those with clear goals for how they plan to apply doctoral-level training rather than those exploring education as a new field.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Education?

A PhD in education can prepare you for roles in research, teaching, policy analysis, and senior leadership across education systems. Graduates often pursue careers as postsecondary faculty, education researchers, policy advisors, academic administrators, or leaders in education-related nonprofits and organizations. Research-focused PhD programs are especially relevant for those interested in contributing to scholarship or shaping evidence-based practice.

Do Online Doctorate in Education Programs Require a Dissertation?

Most online doctorate in education programs include a dissertation or a similar capstone research project, though the format can vary by degree type. PhD programs typically require a traditional research dissertation, while many EdD programs use an applied dissertation or doctoral project focused on solving real-world problems. Even in online formats, this final requirement is a core part of demonstrating doctoral-level research and leadership skills.

Can You Earn a Doctorate in Education While Working Full Time?

Yes, many online doctorate in education programs are designed specifically for working professionals. Coursework is often offered in flexible formats, with part-time enrollment options and asynchronous classes that allow students to balance work and study. While the time commitment is significant—especially during the dissertation phase—online programs are structured to make full-time employment possible for many students.

Explore Online Doctorates in Education

Find the perfect PhD or doctorate in education by exploring the online options featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.