PhD in Education Degrees

It’s no secret that one of the most crucial components of the United States keeping its status as an intelligent world power is the advancement or growth of the U.S. education system. With the pitfalls education at virtually every level is currently facing in America today, the need for not just quality educators, but quality educational leadership is ever present.

What is this degree/program of study about?

A variety of doctoral level degrees in education exist today. Among those: the PhD in professional studies in education, and the PhD in education. The latter holds many possible concentrations, including educational technology, early childhood education, and higher education, among other specialties. Virtually all of these opportunities offer students a chance to enact positive change and improve achievement amongst a variety of genres considered imperative to the improvement of the American educational model.

What does it take to earn this degree, and what will it result in for graduates?

A master’s degree – preferably in an educational format – is expected prior to entry to most PhD programs, although concurrent master’s and PhD programs do exist as well. Once admitted, students will study such curriculum as social change in education, development of the scholar practitioner, and theories of human development, among other topics. Those pursuing such a degree are often seeking post-secondary faculty positions, or consulting or leadership positions in educational or government settings. Entry-level median annual salaries between $47,000 and $53,000 (BLS.gov) exist for prospective tenure track professors.