With this interactive, personalized digital tool, we’ve broken down the PhD in Education journey into manageable and sequential steps. You’ll be able to track your progress from coursework to completion of your doctoral research—no more guesswork.
FOCUS ON YOUR PASSION
Get help choosing a doctoral research topic that reflects your interests. Learn how you can use the findings to create meaningful change.
MOVE AHEAD WITH CONFIDENCE
Our comprehensive suite of doctoral services empowers you to conduct sound research and successfully defend your dissertation.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR PATH
Expand your professional passions and tailor your coursework to fit your career plan with one of 11 specializations.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Take a Closer Look
The online PhD in Education program features rigorous coursework and 11 specializations that allow you to align your studies with your interests and goals.
STREAMLINED ADMISSION
Walden has simplified the online PhD in Education admissions process. When you’re ready to apply, you’ll pay no application fee—and you won’t have to write an essay, either.
SIMPLE CREDIT TRANSFER
We've made the process of transferring credits easy, allowing you to potentially save time and money. Talk to an Enrollment Specialist about specific guidelines for the PhD in Education program.
MPhil ALONG THE WAY
To mark how far you’ve come, you will be eligible to be awarded a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree upon completion of PhD in Education requirements, prior to completion of your dissertation.
Doctoral Experience
How will I learn?
YOUR DOCTORAL JOURNEY
Earning a PhD is not easy—it takes dedication, hard work, and persistence. Knowing what to expect can help you make a confident enrollment decision.
DOCTORAL DEGREE COACHTM
Map and track your PhD in Education milestones, meet weekly targets, connect with faculty, and find support when you need it.
FACE-TO-FACE NETWORKING
In-person residencies allow you to discuss your research interests, gain valuable insights, and form lifelong bonds with faculty and peers.
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Teachers
Teach at colleges and universities; conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.
Expected growth: 8%1
Estimated annual wage: $39,670–$98,1301
Postsecondary Education Administrators
Oversee student services, academics, and faculty research at colleges and universities.
Expected growth: 4%2
Estimated annual wage: $62,970–$137,2302
No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the (include applicable program) program will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries. Wage estimates are based on the 10th - 75th percentile.
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
2Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this online PhD in Education program will be prepared to:
Synthesize content knowledge grounded in a specific educational discipline.
Critically analyze education-related issues.
lign research methodologies to questions and hypotheses addressing problems in the discipline of education.
Communicate ideas to a variety of audiences related to the profession using oral and written scholarly formats.
Synthesize content knowledge grounded in a specific educational discipline.
Practice ethically as a scholar in the field of education.
Integrate a focus on global diversity and multiculturalism into solving problems in education.
Evaluate the role of education in advancing social justice and positive social change.
Meet Your Academic Team
Below are some of the accomplished faculty members who bring a passion for educational excellence to the Walden community.
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Browse other Walden online doctoral programs.
PhD in Education FAQ
The benefits of earning your PhD in Education are numerous. A PhD is a terminal degree in education research, which means earning a doctorate will put you in an elite category in your field. Walden’s PhD in Education online program is designed for education professionals who wish to contribute to and advance the practice of education. With a doctoral degree, you will be positioned to strengthen the field from scientific, theoretical, and technological standpoints. This credential can help your résumé stand out and show potential employers you have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed at a high level. Whether you want to work in early childhood, K–12, or higher education settings, a PhD in Education can help prepare you to reach your professional potential.
One of the key benefits of earning your PhD in Education at Walden is the opportunity to focus your program on your interests and goals. The specialization you choose can help you build expertise within a particular area of interest, increasing your ability to pursue your passion. Walden’s PhD in Education degree program offers a wide variety of specializations, including Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment, and Evaluation; Educational Technology and Design; Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy; Higher Education Leadership, Management, and Policy; and Learning, Instruction, and Innovation.
Thanks to online learning, earning your PhD is more manageable than ever. Walden’s PhD in Education degree program makes it possible to complete the majority of your coursework from home, on a schedule that doesn’t interfere with work and family commitments. Enrolling in an online university like Walden is a common choice for driven education professionals looking to impact the practice of education from a higher level.
A PhD is an academic degree focused on original research, data analysis, and the evaluation of theory. A professional doctorate—called the Doctor of Education (EdD) in education—focuses on applying research to practical problems, formulating solutions to complex issues, and designing effective professional practices within your field. Walden University offers both an online PhD in Education program and an online EdD program.