While the difference between an EdD and a PhD may seem obvious at an initial glance at the letters, the distinctions extend beyond their abbreviations. In this blog, we’ll explore the key distinctions between these two degrees, including program structure, career opportunities, and personal motivations for pursuing each path. If you’re unsure which degree aligns with your goals, use this guide to compare both and determine the best fit for you.
Table of Contents
Program Focus
EdD
In a traditional Doctor of Education program, you will study practical, immediately-applicable research. This kind of research and learning is perfect for advancing your educational career within the next couple of years.
PhD
A Doctor of Philosophy is more theoretical and research-focused. What makes a PhD degree differ from an EdD is the diverse educational background people come from. A PhD degree allows individuals to further study their interests, whatever they might be. Whether you are interested in philosophy, literature, engineering, or business, many schools have PhD options that cater to your passions.
To give you a more specific idea of what you would be studying in an EdD or a PhD, consider these standard courses:
Traditional EdD courses:
- Educational leadership
- Organizational change
- Policy implementation
- Fundraising
Traditional PhD courses (depending on track):
- Critical Theory, Philosophy of History, Comparative Literature
- Research Methods
- Advanced Statistical Methods
- Doctoral Dissertation Research
Program Structure
When looking at the more technical structures of doctoral programs, there are a few key differences between an EdD and a PhD that define the programs and your desired outcomes. We’ve listed the key differences below to help distinguish the two programs
EdD Programs
- An EdD takes an average of 3–5 years to complete
- Quality, online EdD programs are common and accessible
- Applied research focus
- Dissertation or capstone final project
PhD Programs
- A PhD takes an average of 4–7 years to complete
- The nature of a PhD makes quality online program more difficult to find
- Theoretical research focus
- Dissertation final project
Career Outcomes
If you are determining what degree is best for you based on where you want to be in your career, consider this breakdown and examples to help shape your future into what you want.
EdD
Students in an EdD program are ones whose career trajectory is in the fields of educational leadership. The hands-on, applicable research you do in an EdD program can directly apply to the schools and institutions you lead.
PhD
A PhD is best suited for you if you aren’t necessarily looking to be an educational leader. Rather, you love exploring theory and pursuing abstract knowledge that, as you become an expert, you could teach to others or spend more time researching.
If you are looking to advance your career with an EdD, you are probably interested in being a:
- Superintendent
- Principal
- Policy advisor
- Education consultant
- Government official in education
Career options for those looking into a PhD are multitudinous. It might be the right program for you if you are interested in becoming a:
- University professor
- Researcher
- Scholar
- Policy advisor for education departments
- Program director for nonprofits
A Quick Compare and Contrast
Differences between an EdD and a PhD
| Feature | Doctor of Education (EdD) | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
| Average credit range | 60–66 credits | 70–90 credits |
| Average annual cost range | $21,000-$55,000 | $50,000 |
| Program length | 3-5 years | 4-7 years |
| Research type | Applied research, problem-solving in education settings | Original research, theoretical contributions |
| Career paths (general) | Educational leadership or management | Scholarly or academic research |
| Program modality | Online and in-person options often available | Online options less available |
The Difference Between a PhD and an EdD: The Right Path for You
There can be confusing overlap between the two doctorates, especially depending on the type of PhD you pursue. Ultimately, however, there are key elements that, if you know the difference between an EdD and a PhD, will help inform decisions about your future. Now that you know them, we hope you are equipped to choose the right path for you.
If you are ready to walk a different path at Cairn University, learn more about our online EdD program. If you are looking into a PhD program, consider this list of fully-funded PhD programs here.
