Making an Informed Decision
Selecting the right doctoral programme in education can be challenging. At the doctoral level, understanding the distinctions between a Doctorate of Education (EdD) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is key to making an informed decision. Individuals should consider their professional goals, career aspirations, and preferred approach to learning and research when evaluating these two options.
By understanding the unique features and objectives of each degree, prospective students can choose a programme that aligns with their personal and professional journeys.
When contemplating a doctoral degree in Education, choosing between an EdD and a PhD can shape one’s professional path significantly.
This article aims to provide a concise overview of the different characteristics of an EdD and a PhD in Education to help individuals make an informed decision that aligns with their academic and professional aspirations.
Similarities and differences
Let’s begin by looking at the similarities between the two degrees, and then at their differences. Then in the next section, we will go a bit deeper to examine the specific nature of each degree and take a look at the pre-dissertation modules, which are different for each option.
Similarities
- Both degrees hold equal academic value
- Both degrees are a doctoral qualification in Education
- You will have to write a dissertation for both degrees
- Both degrees are of the same duration and take an average of 4.5 years to complete
Differences
- An EdD is addressed to individuals who want to apply their knowledge to practise.
- A PhD is addressed to individuals who want to focus on research.
- In order to pursue an EdD the applicant needs to have professional experience within the Education sector.
- Differences in curriculum: the pre-dissertation modules are different for each degree
- Potential career opportunities: the PhD is better for those who seek a career in academia, whilst the EdD is more suited to those working professionally within education
EdD: Empowering Change Agents
The EdD degree is primarily recognised as a professional doctorate, catering to experienced educators and professionals in mid- to senior-level positions who aspire to drive transformative initiatives within their institutions.
EdD candidates come from diverse sectors such as K-12 and higher education, non-profit organisations, government, healthcare, and the military. Their common goal is to effect positive change in their respective environments, utilising their doctoral knowledge and skills to address critical professional challenges. The EdD programme places a strong emphasis on practical applications, with a focus on conducting research and utilising the findings to enhance decision-making processes within specific communities or organisations.
EdD pre-dissertation modules:
The EdD is focused on the real-world application of doctoral research, to help inform decision-making in a specific field or organisation.
Each pre-dissertation module of the EdD is structured so as to emphasise the practical application of your research and theoretical framework to real-world educational institutions and problems. The pre-dissertation modules of the EdD will leave you well versed as to the current state of theory in the educational field. During these modules, you are also taught how to conduct research at the doctoral level, and the tools you will need to do so.
A full description of the content of each module can be found on our website.
| Module | Course Title |
|---|---|
| UU-EDUD-801 | Educational Research: Philosophy and Practice |
| UU-EDUD-802 | Managing Teaching and Learning Methods |
| UU-EDUD-803 | Educational Policy: Theory and Practice |
| UU-EDUD-804 | Educational Management Leadership and Administration |
PhD in Education: Advancing Scholarship
The PhD in Education, on the other hand, centres on advanced research and scholarship in the field of education. It is geared towards individuals aspiring to careers in academia, research, or leadership positions in educational organisations. The PhD curriculum encompasses research methods, educational theories, specialised subjects within the field, and a significant research project or dissertation.
Considered a terminal degree, the PhD is ideal for those seeking a career in academia or research within a university setting. PhD candidates adopt a research-oriented approach to learning, aiming to achieve mastery in a specific area or contribute new knowledge to the existing scholarly literature. The programme requirements include independent research to drive transformation within the education discipline while inspiring others to create positive change through scholarly contributions.
PhD pre-dissertation modules:
The PhD in Education is an academically-oriented degree focused on enhancing scholarship and research in the field of education.
The pre-dissertation modules of the PhD are structured to provide you with an in-depth understanding of the tools and methods of academic research in the field of Education at the doctoral level. Once you complete the pre-dissertation modules you will know how to apply both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, with an emphasis on the triangulation of results. You will also understand the current state of the theory within the field of Education.
The pre-dissertation modules will equip you to carry out your research, applying the research methodologies within the context of existing theory to examine your own research question.
A full description of the content of each module can be found on our website.
| Course Code | Course Title |
|---|---|
| UU-PhD-801 | Research Methods |
| UU-PhD-802 | Current Issues in Management Research |
| UU-PhD-803 | Leadership |
| UU-PhD-830 | Educational Management, Leadership and Administration |
Conclusion
The choice between an EdD and a PhD in Education holds significant implications for individuals pursuing a doctoral degree in the field. While the EdD focuses on professional practice and driving change within organisations, the PhD emphasises research and scholarship, making it suitable for those aiming for careers in academia or research.
By comprehending the differences outlined in this article, prospective students can make an informed decision that suits their academic and professional goals in the dynamic field of education.
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Sebastian Heller, Doctoral Studies Liaison, Unicaf
