Are you motivated to make an impact on the lives of students and teachers? Do the challenges of designing educational programs intrigue you?

If so, you may be well-suited to a Doctorate in Education (EdD).

But regardless of your motivation and drive, it’s important to contemplate your career prospects before you commit to such an in-depth degree.

How do those with an EdD fare in the job market? Simply put, it’s pretty fruitful.

An EdD offers you a unique set of credentials that allow you to work in various roles within the educational field. So, don’t make the mistake of thinking a doctorate in education is only for people who want to teach.

If you’re ready to spin your passion for education into a successful career, here’s what you need to know about the degree.

What is a Doctorate in Education?

A Doctorate in Education is a terminal degree that focuses on research and practice in education. It imparts the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to become a leader in the field.

Depending on the program, an EdD degree typically takes two to three years of study.

The content of a doctorate in education usually covers the following areas:

• History and philosophy of education
• Research methods
• Educational policy
• Technology

It also focuses on developing interdisciplinary skills. These allow graduates to work in various roles within the field.

The best part of an advanced degree like this is its flexibility. Since it is designed for professionals, it can be tailored to fit their busy schedules.

For instance, an online doctorate in education program provides the same rigorous curriculum but with more flexibility.

The online format means students can continue working while studying for their degree. It also provides them with the opportunity to specialize in various areas. Online learning and educational technology are the most sought-after.

What is the Job Market Like?

The job market for those with a doctorate in education is very promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 7% jump in job openings within the education, training, and library sector in the forthcoming decade. So, you can expect an additional 658,200 positions!

Moreover, those with a doctorate degree in education can look forward to job security and the potential for higher pay. The median annual salary of a postsecondary professor is over $79,000. That’s almost double the median wage of all other occupations!

What Kind of Jobs Do EdD Graduates Seek Out?

Those who complete a doctorate in education have the skills to become successful educators and policymakers. They are also well-suited to pursue other leadership roles in the field. Depending on your background and specialization, you can also work in administration, instructional design, and curriculum development.

For instance, if you have a background in human services, you can look for a job in student services or vocational counseling.

EdD graduates who specialize in online learning can work as instructional designers and educational technology advisors. These professionals can help organizations develop e-learning courses and training materials.

Also, if you have a knack for research, you can work as an educational consultant. These professionals can help institutions and organizations create policies, programs, and strategies to improve learning outcomes.

Top 5 Careers for EdD Graduates

College President

As the head honcho of their institution, college presidents are responsible for setting and achieving their school’s strategic vision. They spearhead fundraising efforts, attend student events, and give speeches to various groups, such as donors, lawmakers, government officials, and faculty. These engagements help to raise the profile of their institution both locally and abroad.

College presidents also work closely with senior administrators, faculty, and staff to develop new ways to support students and improve their learning environment while also maintaining high academic standards. Their efforts help to ensure that students receive a high-quality education and a positive college experience.

Chief Learning Officer

A chief learning officer (CLO) is a senior-level professional who plays a crucial role in developing and driving strategies that help their institute meet critical business goals. They focus on creating innovative strategies for training, learning, and development. Plus, they typically oversee the institution’s latest technologies, such as its online learning platform.

As a CLO, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that the institution’s students receive the best education possible. You’ll develop cutting-edge strategies for online learning and other educational technologies that will help students succeed in their studies. You’ll also oversee the training and development of faculty and staff so they have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide students with a high-quality education.

Provost

As the chief academic officer, the provost is responsible for managing the budgetary and academic affairs of the university. They oversee policies and ensure that each department and faculty member adheres to them. Think of the provost as the academic conductor of a university, ensuring that all aspects of the institution work together in harmony.

But that’s not all! Provosts also work closely with the deans of different schools and departments to deliver learning experiences that advance their school’s reputation and student experience. They oversee crucial services like information technology, international studies, library services, and research programs.

School District Superintendent

Superintendents are the top executives of a school district. They have a crucial role in establishing and overseeing their district’s budget, staffing, infrastructure, and spending.

Superintendents work closely with a school board to develop and implement new policies and programs in line with the district’s short- and long-term goals. They also allocate the financial and human resources necessary to achieve the district’s overarching vision.

Moreover, superintendents work closely with principals, district staff, and the community to ensure that all students have access to quality education. They facilitate communication between the school board and families, helping them feel more connected with their children’s educational journey.

Education Policy Analyst

If you like crunching numbers and analyzing stats, then an education policy analyst could be the job for you. These professionals act as a bridge between research and practice, working closely with administrators and policymakers to inform decision-making processes.

They are responsible for researching current issues in education, such as disparities in student outcomes or inequitable access to resources. Education policy analysts use their findings to create strategies that address these issues and develop solutions that benefit marginalized students.

Moreover, they evaluate existing policies and programs to determine their effectiveness in fostering student learning.

Wrapping Up

With a doctorate in education, you have the opportunity to make an impact on the lives of students, faculty, and staff. From the chief learning officer to the education policy analyst, there is a wide range of careers in the field of education. With a little hard work and dedication, you can make a real difference in your community and give students the best possible learning experience