Earn Your Online PhD in Education
If you’re reaching for a career where you can make a tremendous impact on higher education and want to earn a degree to fit that role, obtaining the PhD in education should be at the top of your list. Learn how PhD in education online programs enable educators to work in the highest echelons of education with this PhDs.me guide.
The PhD in Education is designed for educators interested in research, higher education, policy, and academic leadership. While the EdD focuses more on applied leadership in schools and districts, the PhD is often the better fit for those pursuing university teaching, scholarly research, or policy work. Online PhD programs provide academic rigor with the flexibility working professionals often need.
Trying to decide between a PhD and EdD? Wondering what to expect from an online PhD program?
This guide covers key topics like program structure, admissions, affordability, flexibility, and career outcomes so you can find the program that best fits your goals.
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
The Best Online PhDs in Education
Whether you choose an online or on-campus PhD in Education, programs can differ in areas like specialization options, faculty expertise, networking opportunities, and time to completion. For many working professionals, online programs stand out because of their flexibility and convenience.
As you compare programs, pay close attention to factors like:
- Flexibility and scheduling
- Cost and financial aid
- Accreditation
- Faculty and research strengths
- Academic rigor
Using these and other criteria, we’ve identified some of the top online PhD in Education programs available today. Explore the options below to see which program best fits your goals.
Regent University offers ten specialized PhDs in education. Students can choose between a degree in adult education, advanced educational leadership, Christian educational leadership, curriculum & instruction, educational psychology, education technology & online learning, exceptional education executive leadership, higher learning leadership and management, K-12 leadership, and special education leadership. No matter which option a student chooses, all students complete 67 credits, including a few core courses across concentrations. Students must also complete a dissertation under the guidance of a faculty member. Both the dissertation and courses can be completed online. Since many students are working professionals in their field, courses are often offered in the evenings. Successful applicants should already have their master's degree in their field of choice or a related discipline.
Program Highlights:
Docorate of Philosophy
- Credits: 67
- Length: 3-4 years
- Cost: $800/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio21
K-12 educators looking forward to getting their PhD will want to consider Ball State University's doctorate of philosophy. The university offers two PhDs in education, each with a different focus. For students interested in leadership careers at the elementary school level, the elementary education PhD is offered. The second PhD offered is in special education for students who are interested in leadership roles in special education programs. Both degrees require students to complete a dissertation and courses in educational theory. Students also take courses in their chosen concentration, becoming an expert in that area. While both programs are advertised as fully online, there are some in-person courses required. For both PhDs, the school claims students can complete 85%-90% of their coursework online, though they must complete the last 10%-15% on campus. Successful applicants should already have their teaching license and a bachelor's and/or master's degree in education before they apply. To graduate, students must pass a comprehensive exam and defend their thesis.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate of Philsophy in Special Education or Elementary Education
- Credits: 91
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $451/credit in-state | $676/credit out-of-state
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio14
Clemson University offers four PhDs in education that are grounded in theory. Applicants can choose to apply to the PhD in teaching and learning, educational leadership, special education, or learning sciences. No matter which degree a student is enrolled in, they take a mixture of theoretical coursework in that area and more general classes in education. All of these degrees are applicable in K-12, though only the teaching and learning, learning science, and educational leadership offer a concentration in higher education. All four programs are designed for maximum flexibility, with students taking all their coursework online and after typical full-time work hours. Students also must complete a dissertation in their respective area under the guidance of a faculty mentor to graduate. Applicants should have a bachelor's and master's in the field or a related discipline at the time of applying.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate of Philsophy
- Credits: 56-65
- Length: 3-4 years
- Cost: $659/credit in-state | $783/credit out-of-state
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio16
The demographics of who's attending college is shifting, and there is a need for higher education administrators who understand that shift. To meet that need, Notre Dame of Maryland University offers a cutting-edge doctorate of philosophy in higher education for changing populations. The 100% online PhD covers topics that would be in most PhD in education programs, such as education policy analysis and curriculum design. Along with this, the curriculum features classes related to shifting college demographics, such as language and intercultural communication for changing populations and educators as change leaders. Students also complete a dissertation mentored by a faculty member. To graduate, students must successfully defend their thesis and pass a university-approved exam. Successful applicants should already have a bachelor's and/or master's in a related field.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Leadership for Changing Populations
- Credits: 42
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $625/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio7
Western Michigan University's Department of Education offers a variety of high-quality PhDs for working professionals. Students can choose to pursue a PhD in science education or K-12 leadership. Within the science education umbrella, Western Michigan University offers PhDs in physics, geosciences, physical geography, chemistry, biological sciences, and science education more generally. For these science education PhDs, students take coursework on science education theory and in their specific subdiscipline. Students can also choose between a K-12 and college science track. All three tracks complete a dissertation. For the PhD in K-12 leadership, students take the coursework needed to become an educational administrator, such as a principal or superintendent. For all PhDs, there is a fully online option, though there are some optional courses students can take in-person if they desire.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate of Philosophy in Science Education
- Credits: 69
- Length: 3-4 years
- Cost: $258.50/credit
- Mode: Online or hybrid
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio16
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio14
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio21
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio18
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
Highlighting Online PhD in Education Programs
St. John’s University Online PhD in Literacy
St. John’s University offers an online PhD in Literacy designed for students pursuing careers in literacy research and education. The program explores the historical and theoretical foundations of reading and writing while helping students develop advanced research skills.
Students complete coursework online through a virtual learning platform that includes lectures, discussions, exams, and collaboration with faculty and peers.
Key program details include:
- 42 credits
- Fall, spring, and summer start dates
- Estimated completion time of 2.5–3 years
- Dissertation and comprehensive exam required
- Tuition of $1,265 per credit, plus fees and materials
Indiana State University Online PhD in Educational Administration
Indiana State University offers a hybrid PhD in Educational Administration for students pursuing careers in K–12 leadership, administration, and research.
The program requires 72 post-bachelor’s credits, though students can transfer up to 42 master’s-level credits toward the degree. Remaining coursework is completed online, with students attending four in-person meetings per semester in Indianapolis.
Key program details include:
- Hybrid online format
- Up to 42 transfer credits accepted
- Completion time as short as 2.5 years
- Up to six years allowed for completion
- Tuition ranges from $554 to $837 per credit, depending on residency status
Colorado State University Online PhD in Higher Education Leadership
Colorado State University offers an online PhD in Higher Education Leadership designed for professionals seeking leadership roles in colleges and universities, including positions like dean or provost.
The program combines higher education leadership training with advanced research development, helping students strengthen both administrative and scholarly skills. Coursework follows a cohort model, allowing students to progress through the program with the same group of peers.
Key program details include:
- 60 total credits
- 30 coursework credits
- 30 research credits
- Estimated completion time of five years
- Cohort-based format
- Tuition of $926 per credit
- Same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students
Expert Insight
A PhD in Education is heavily research-driven, so it’s important to enjoy the process of asking questions, analyzing data, and writing extensively. Students who thrive in these programs are often motivated as much by intellectual curiosity as by career advancement.
Benefits of the Online PhD in Education
The PhD in Education is one of the most customizable doctoral degrees available. In addition to broad leadership and policy pathways, many programs offer specializations in areas like mathematics education, science education, special education, literacy, and curriculum development.
With so many concentration options available, students can tailor their studies around their academic interests, research goals, and long-term career plans.
Convenience and flexibility.
Online PhD programs in education make it easier for working professionals to pursue a doctorate while balancing career and personal responsibilities. Students can typically attend classes, submit assignments, collaborate with peers, and communicate with faculty from almost anywhere.
To support that flexibility, schools use online learning platforms and tools such as:
- Virtual classrooms and discussion boards
- Video conferencing platforms
- Course management systems
- Online collaboration tools
These systems help students stay connected throughout the program while maintaining a more flexible schedule.
Adaptability.
In addition to location flexibility, many online PhD programs offer more adaptable scheduling options. Students may be able to speed up or slow down their progress based on their academic goals, work schedules, and personal responsibilities.
Some programs offer accelerated pathways that can be completed in as little as two years. Others provide extended timelines, allowing students up to seven years to finish the degree.
Types of Online PhDs in Education
When researching online PhD programs in education, it’s important to understand how the online format actually works. Some programs are fully online, while others include hybrid components, residencies, or scheduled in-person sessions.
As you compare programs, consider factors like:
- Fully online vs. hybrid delivery
- Residency requirements
- Live vs. asynchronous classes
- Scheduling flexibility
- Research and dissertation expectations
The breakdown below can help you start comparing programs more effectively.
100% campus PhDs
In fully on-campus programs, all classes and most academic activities take place in person. While students may still submit assignments or collaborate online, the program is primarily built around regular campus attendance and a structured schedule.
Best for:
- Students who prefer face-to-face learning
- Those with flexible schedules
- Learners who want consistent in-person interaction with faculty and peers
Hybrid or blended PhD programs
Blended or hybrid PhD programs combine online learning with in-person instruction. Students may complete some courses fully online while attending campus sessions, seminars, or classes at scheduled times throughout the program.
This format gives students more flexibility while still maintaining the collaborative and networking benefits of campus-based learning.
Best for:
- Students who want flexibility without a fully online format
- Learners who value in-person interaction and collaboration
- Students looking for more program availability than fully online options may offer
Fully online education PhDs
Fully online PhD programs in education are designed for students who need maximum flexibility in both schedule and location. Coursework, discussions, and collaboration are completed through online learning platforms and virtual communication tools.
Some programs may still include residency requirements for activities like dissertation proposals, research presentations, or dissertation defenses.
Best for:
- Students who need maximum schedule flexibility
- Working professionals balancing multiple responsibilities
- Learners comfortable with fully online instruction and independent study
Part-time education PhDs
Part-time PhD programs offer additional flexibility for students balancing school with work and personal responsibilities. While full-time programs often take three to five years, part-time options may allow students up to seven years or longer to complete the degree.
Students may take as little as one course per semester, depending on the program structure. When comparing part-time options, pay close attention to timelines, residency requirements, and dissertation deadlines.
Best for:
- Working professionals
- Students balancing family or other major commitments
- Learners who prefer a slower academic pace
Timeline: How Long Does It Take to Get an Online PhD in Education?
Earning an PhD online can take anywhere from three to eight years, depending on your circumstances. Several factors can accelerate or slowdown the process.
Let’s look at the timeline for the degree and the critical points that will dictate your time to completion.
Part-time or full-time
Some fully online PhD programs also offer part-time pathways, allowing students to take as few as one course per semester. This can make balancing school with work and personal responsibilities more manageable.
However, many programs still enforce a maximum completion timeline for coursework and dissertation requirements. Full-time students often graduate in three to five years, while part-time students may take six to eight years or longer.
Transfer credits
Many PhD in Education programs allow students to transfer graduate credits from previous coursework. Policies vary by school, but transferring eligible credits can reduce both the time and cost required to complete the degree.
In some cases, transfer credits may shorten the program by as much as a year.
Comprehensive exams
Most PhD in Education programs require students to pass a comprehensive exam before advancing to doctoral candidacy. These exams may be written, oral, or a combination of both and typically assess knowledge gained during the coursework phase of the program.
Comprehensive exams often take place near the end of the second year.
The dissertation
The dissertation process can be one of the longest phases of a PhD in Education program, especially for part-time students. It typically includes:
- Literature review
- Original research
- Proposal development and defense
- Dissertation writing
- Oral defense and publication
Some students complete the process in about two years, while others may take up to six depending on their schedule and research scope.
When charting your education PhD, a calendar can help you visualize where you want to be and when. Here’s a sample timeline to get you started:
Year 1
Students complete core coursework and begin exploring potential specialization areas. Many programs also require a preliminary plan of study, and students often begin identifying faculty members for their future dissertation committee.
Year 2
Students narrow their research interests and prepare for the comprehensive exam. After passing the exam, students typically form a dissertation committee and officially advance to candidacy.
Year 3
Dissertation research becomes the primary focus. Students usually develop and defend a dissertation proposal before continuing with research and writing.
Year 4
Writing, revising, and incorporating feedback take center stage. Students work closely with advisors and committee members while preparing for the final dissertation defense and submission.
Years 5–6+
Students who have not yet completed the dissertation continue research, revisions, and defense preparation. This timeline is more common for part-time students or those balancing significant professional responsibilities.
What’s the Difference Between an EdD and a PhD in Education?
In education, students pursuing advanced study beyond the master’s level typically choose between three degree options:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
- Education Specialist (EdS)
Each degree serves a different purpose and is designed for distinct academic and professional career paths.
The Education PhD Breakdown
The PhD in Education is a research-focused degree centered on advancing knowledge and scholarship in the field. Programs place heavy emphasis on research, dissertation development, and academic writing, and students may also present their work at conferences or contribute to scholarly publications.
Many PhD programs include opportunities like:
- Teaching assistantships
- Research assistantships
- Faculty mentorship and collaboration
Graduates often pursue careers in higher education, research, policy, and academic leadership, though some also move into administrative roles within school systems and educational organizations.
Average years to completion
4
Capstone
Dissertation
Required degree
Master’s, although some programs may admit bachelor’s degree holders.
Example PhD course schedule:
Foundations courses
35 hours
Elective courses
11 hours
Research courses
20 hours
Dissertation
20 hours
Total credits to graduate
70–86
EdD Programs Compared
The Doctor of Education (EdD) is considered a more practice-focused doctorate. Coursework and research are designed to address real-world challenges in classrooms, schools, districts, and other educational settings.
Rather than focusing primarily on academic theory, EdD programs emphasize applying existing research to improve educational practice and leadership.
Depending on the program, students may complete either:
- A traditional dissertation
- A capstone or applied project
Capstone projects may include initiatives like developing a new curriculum, implementing a school improvement strategy, or designing tools to support student learning and engagement.
Average years to completion
2-3
Capstone
Dissertation or direct application project
Required degree
Master’s, as well as 3+ years of experience in the field.
Example EdD program course load:
Foundations courses
35 hours
Research/inquiry
10 hours
Leadership communication
3 hours
Clinical experience
10 hours
Capstone
6 hours
Total credit hours to graduate
64
What About the EdS?
The Education Specialist (EdS) degree is designed for educators who want advanced training in a specific area of education without completing a full doctorate. These programs are typically shorter than PhD or EdD programs and often place less emphasis on extensive research or dissertation work.
Common specialization areas include:
- Curriculum and instruction
- Educational leadership
- Assessment and evaluation
- K–12 administration
The EdS is often a good fit for educators seeking targeted professional advancement through a more focused course of study.
Example EdS program course load:
Foundational coursework
30 hours
Elective coursework
10 hours
Capstone
5 hours
Total credit hours to graduate
45
Online PhD in Education Learning Outcomes
Learning outcomes explain what students are expected to learn and demonstrate throughout a PhD in Education program. They outline the knowledge, research abilities, and professional skills students should develop before graduating.
While programs may differ in specialization areas and graduation requirements, most share a core set of academic and research expectations. Common learning outcomes in education PhD programs may include:
1
Analytical skills
Analyze, interpret, and disseminate expertise of higher education to inform research and practice in the education sphere.
2
Evaluation and exploration
Able to use ideas, theories, concepts, approaches, and rationale from education and related fields of inquiry in exploring and evaluating higher education topics.
3
Spirit of innovation
Innovative thinking shown through the application of complex approaches, create useful and fresh solutions to make breakthroughs in the field of higher education.
4
Relationship building
Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships to build networks and consensus.
5
Performance measurement
Proven ability to comprehend and use statistical and financial methods of inquiry and metrics for goal setting and performance measuring. Commitment to using evidence-based practices.
Expert Insight
Many online PhD students underestimate how isolating doctoral research can feel. Programs with active cohorts, research groups, or regular faculty interaction often provide a stronger sense of community and accountability.
Specializations: Choosing the Focus of Your PhD in Education
Education PhD students have a wide range of specialization opportunities in just about any program. Here’s a look at the most common focus areas and how they break down.
By impact
While many education professionals spend their days in the classroom, so much more goes into the development and improvement of a quality educational system. Many online PhD programs in education offer specialization opportunities based on where and how students wish to make a difference, including:
- Curriculum development
- Education policy
- Instructional & assessment
- Leadership/Administration
- New methods & innovation
- Special education
- Student advocacy (often for underprivileged youth)
By subject
Some educators have in-depth knowledge and skills in single subject. Doctorate programs give these professionals the opportunity to deepen their understanding and research new and innovative ways to approach education in their niche. Popular subject-focused specializations at the PhD level include:
- Educational technology & design
- Literacy & reading
- Mathematics education
- Science education
By level
Many impact and subject area specializations can be sliced even further by grade level. In some cases, this is an absolute must, with problems, methodologies, and approaches differing greatly by student age, ability, or institution. Common level-based PhD tracks include the following:
- Early childhood education (ECE) administration
- Higher education leadership
- Higher education policy
- Secondary education leadership
Four Steps to Finding a PhD Education Program With Your Specialization
OK, so you know your interests. You’ve taught underprivileged students for years and you’re ready to make a systemic impact. You want that PhD, but you need to keep working while you’re in school.
A blended or online PhD in education with a focus on student advocacy sounds just right for you, but does anyone offer it? And if no one has the exact program you want, what’s next?
When searching for the ideal PhD program for you, start with these steps:
Step
1
Narrow by program type.
Use the directory on this page to compare online and hybrid PhD programs by location, cost, and delivery format. This can help you quickly identify schools that fit your schedule, budget, and academic goals.
Step
2
Search for pre-designed tracks.
Use targeted Google searches to find programs related to your interests. For example:
- “online PhD education advocacy site:.edu”
Limiting results to “.edu” websites helps surface official university program pages instead of third-party listings.
Step
3
Search course lists.
If you can’t find an exact specialization match, look through course catalogs for classes related to your area of interest. Relevant coursework may indicate the department has faculty expertise in that subject area.
Faculty members teaching those courses may also be valuable contacts for questions about research opportunities or dissertation support.
Step
4
Search professor bios.
Even if a school doesn’t advertise your exact specialization, professors may still conduct research in your area of interest. Faculty advisors and dissertation committee members can play a major role in shaping your doctoral experience and research direction.
Most PhD programs give students fairly significant leeway when it comes to specialization. At the very least, they can help you cater the research and dissertation portion of their program to fit your needs. But it’s always good to make sure each college, education department, and PhD program have what you need to reach your goals.
The Dissertation Process
While coursework is a major part of earning an online PhD in education, the dissertation is the culmination of your program and signals to the education community that you’re ready to make a difference in your chosen field and sub-field.
The lengthy and detailed nature of the process reflects this importance, and every education PhD candidate should understand the requirements. Here are the major dissertation steps, and how they work with an online PhD in education.
1
Select your dissertation advisor and committee
Choose a dissertation advisor with strong research and/or professional expertise in your area of interest. It’s also important to find someone who is accessible, communicates clearly, and provides consistent feedback throughout the dissertation process.
Because online PhD programs rely heavily on virtual collaboration, look for faculty members who are comfortable working through:
- Video meetings and virtual communication
- Online document collaboration
- Regular remote advising
The same qualities are important when selecting other members of your dissertation committee.
2
Set your deadlines
While online PhD programs often offer flexibility, staying on top of deadlines and milestones is critical. Timelines help keep your coursework, research, and dissertation progress on track while ensuring you complete the program within the allowed timeframe.
Scheduling your dissertation defense is especially important. Many programs still require an in-person defense, which may involve travel and coordinating schedules with your advisor and dissertation committee.
3
Practice (optional)
Researching, writing, and presenting at academic conferences can help students build skills that are essential for the dissertation process. Presenting research early in the program also helps students gain experience with academic writing, feedback, and professional communication.
Starting this process early can be especially helpful before coursework, comprehensive exams, and dissertation responsibilities become more demanding.
4
Submit your proposal
Your dissertation proposal explains your research topic, goals, and methodology to your dissertation committee. A strong proposal clearly outlines both why the issue matters and how you plan to study it.
Most proposals include:
- A clearly defined research problem
- A literature review
- Research questions or hypotheses
- Methodology and data collection plans
Many universities also provide detailed proposal guidelines and examples to help students understand the required structure and expectations.
5
Find your funding
As a PhD in Education student, you may need additional funding to complete your dissertation research. Many organizations, universities, and professional associations offer fellowships, grants, and dissertation funding opportunities for doctoral students.
Programs like those offered by the National Academy of Education (NAEd) can help support research and professional development. Applying for multiple funding opportunities can improve your chances of receiving financial support.
6
Draft and revise
The dissertation drafting process is often one of the most time-intensive parts of a PhD in Education program. Students spend significant time collecting and analyzing data, building evidence-based arguments, and revising their writing throughout the process.
In addition to strong research and writing, dissertations must also follow specific formatting and submission guidelines established by the university. Most education departments provide detailed dissertation manuals and templates to help students stay on track.
7
Defend
The defense of your education dissertation begins with a presentation that gives a brief overview of the candidate, the problem, and the initial chapters, followed by a more detailed examination of key findings and the research that supports it.
Following the presentation, the candidate answers questions posed mostly by the committee but also by other academics or guests in attendance. The candidate may also meet with his or her advisor afterward to address feedback, proposed revisions, and a timeline to complete those revisions.
8
Final approval
After the defense or after all revision requests, you should receive final approval. This means the green light to publish your thesis and apply for graduation.
Accreditation of Online PhD Education Programs
Accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an online PhD in Education program. Accreditation helps ensure that a school or program meets established academic and quality standards.
Attending an accredited institution can affect:
- Federal financial aid eligibility
- Transferability of credits
- Employer and academic recognition
- Overall program credibility
When researching programs, make sure both the institution and, when applicable, the education program itself are accredited by recognized organizations.
Two important types of accreditation include:
- Institutional accreditation
Confirms the college or university meets broader academic and operational standards recognized by organizations approved by the U.S. Department of Education. - Programmatic accreditation
Evaluates whether a specific education program follows professional standards and best practices within the field.
One of the most recognized accrediting organizations for education programs is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Application & Admissions
Applying to an online PhD in Education program usually requires several standard admissions materials. While requirements can vary by school, most programs ask for:
- Official transcripts
- GRE scores (if required)
- Letters of recommendation
- Research-focused writing samples
- A resume or CV
- Proof of English proficiency (for some applicants)
Having these materials prepared ahead of time can make the application process much smoother.
1
GPA
Many PhD in Education programs evaluate applicants based on their overall readiness for doctoral-level work, not just GPA alone. Depending on the school, admissions committees may focus on:
- Overall undergraduate GPA
- Master’s program GPA
- Education-related coursework
- Graduate-level academic performance
Some programs have stricter academic standards than others. For example, Indiana State University requires students applying to its online PhD in Educational Leadership program to have earned at least a B+ average in previous graduate coursework.
2
GRE scores
Unlike many EdD programs, GRE scores can still play an important role in PhD in Education admissions. Some schools require scores from all applicants, while others only require them under certain academic conditions.
For example:
- Colorado State University requires GRE scores for applicants whose undergraduate or graduate GPA falls below 3.0.
- St. John’s University requires a minimum score on the GRE analytical writing section for its online PhD in Literacy program.
If standardized testing is a concern, look for programs with more flexible admissions policies or optional GRE requirements.
3
Experience.
Online EdD programs tend to require at least three years of professional education experience for admission. This usually isn’t the case with online PhDs in education, where the experience focus is on academics.
The standard degree requirement is a master’s in education, although some programs may accept students with a bachelor’s, as long as the student completes master’s-related coursework first.
How Much Does an Online PhD in Education Cost?
Many working professionals are concerned about the cost of earning an online PhD while balancing other financial responsibilities. In addition to tuition, there may be fees for applications, graduation, technology, and online services.
Fortunately, there are many funding options available to prospective PhD students, including grants, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
Tuition
Tuition makes up a majority of the cost of your online PhD. However, fully online programs, as opposed to hybrid programs with a campus element, often charge online students the in-state tuition rate, making an online PhD more affordable.
This can save between $15,000 and $25,000 over the life of your program. Here’s a glimpse at the tuition rates for some of today’s best online education PhDs:
| School | Cost per Credit | Total Credits | Subtotal |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. John’s University | $1,265 | 42 | $53,130 |
| Indiana State University | 554.00–$837.00 | 30-72 | $16,620-$60,264 |
| Colorado State University | $926 | 60 | $55,560 |
| Northcentral University | $1,180 | 60 | $70,800 |
| Capella University | $745 | 77 | $57,365 |
NOTE: You have many options when it comes to paying for your online PhD in education. Look for scholarship, fellowships, employer assistance programs, and federal student loans. Several PhD education programs also offer scholarships just for their students.
For example, Northcentral University offers the Give Your All scholarship, which awards two full-tuition scholarships and two $20,000 scholarships. Capella University offers the Capella Progress Award, which is a $20,000 scholarship for doctoral students.
What Can Education PhD Graduates Earn?
A PhD in education is the research terminal degree for those who want to advance the field through original scholarship — studying learning, policy, equity, teacher development, and educational systems. Graduates serve as education faculty, research directors, policy researchers, and senior consultants — contributing the evidence base that shapes how educational institutions operate and evolve. The degree is required for tenure-track faculty positions at research universities and is valued by major education research organizations.
Postsecondary education faculty with PhD credentials earn salaries that reflect both their research productivity and the academic prestige of the institution. Research universities and colleges of education at major public institutions tend to offer the strongest compensation packages for education faculty.
Explore the salary table to see what postsecondary education teachers earn across states, and benchmark PhD-level education faculty compensation in your area.
Postsecondary Teachers
| Area | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $75,350 | $97,590 | $126,860 |
| Alabama | $63,730 | $78,350 | $100,490 |
| Arizona | $78,520 | $104,910 | $135,140 |
| Arkansas | $74,500 | $78,820 | $92,000 |
| California | $111,850 | $132,730 | $159,270 |
| Colorado | $66,870 | $85,030 | $107,200 |
| Connecticut | $80,620 | $101,030 | $127,400 |
| District of Columbia | $80,810 | $104,330 | $123,890 |
| Florida | $63,640 | $75,140 | $94,970 |
| Georgia | $62,510 | $78,070 | $92,890 |
| Hawaii | $49,800 | $64,530 | $96,650 |
| Idaho | $65,720 | $97,760 | $128,880 |
| Illinois | $61,560 | $78,810 | $100,000 |
| Indiana | $66,150 | $83,060 | $104,380 |
| Iowa | $62,090 | $86,750 | $130,120 |
| Kansas | $63,010 | $84,040 | $128,700 |
| Kentucky | $61,450 | $80,840 | $104,060 |
| Louisiana | $83,710 | $106,290 | $212,740 |
| Maine | $77,050 | $86,770 | $103,360 |
| Maryland | $78,820 | $97,460 | $125,900 |
| Massachusetts | $79,980 | $104,760 | $137,750 |
| Michigan | $79,910 | $109,200 | $138,850 |
| Minnesota | $78,950 | $98,040 | $125,400 |
| Mississippi | $61,860 | $76,840 | $103,070 |
| Missouri | $65,910 | $83,230 | $104,210 |
| Montana | $70,320 | $78,490 | $101,510 |
| Nebraska | $78,950 | $96,060 | $133,500 |
| Nevada | $74,240 | $100,410 | $123,390 |
| New Hampshire | $49,250 | $67,200 | $95,400 |
| New Jersey | $77,600 | $101,990 | $129,930 |
| New Mexico | $64,830 | $85,240 | $108,790 |
| New York | $82,020 | $107,710 | $168,280 |
| North Carolina | $70,050 | $84,490 | $105,820 |
| North Dakota | $77,540 | $97,720 | $103,850 |
| Ohio | $62,400 | $83,810 | $113,680 |
| Oklahoma | $60,880 | $79,060 | $90,230 |
| Oregon | $73,880 | $95,810 | $150,520 |
| Pennsylvania | $74,910 | $96,950 | $113,950 |
| Rhode Island | $80,030 | $103,170 | $125,510 |
| South Carolina | $66,690 | $83,710 | $105,770 |
| South Dakota | $63,350 | $74,640 | $82,690 |
| Tennessee | $72,390 | $83,350 | $103,790 |
| Texas | $68,280 | $97,610 | $108,130 |
| Utah | $77,090 | $94,570 | $108,230 |
| Vermont | $78,100 | $97,740 | $126,780 |
| Virginia | $77,060 | $97,620 | $124,330 |
| Washington | $75,170 | $86,890 | $103,650 |
| West Virginia | $63,270 | $78,440 | $99,210 |
| Wisconsin | $74,790 | $83,190 | $106,970 |
| Wyoming | $66,350 | $80,160 | $101,380 |
Source: BLS, OEWS, May 2025
Showing 1 – 10 of 50 entries | Data reflects national numbers, not school-specific information.