Differences Between Ed.D. and Ph.D. Dissertations

The proposed differences are illustrative and are NOT intended to suggest mutual exclusivity in methodology or relevance to theory or practice. Each degree, however, has a distinct emphasis, and the dissertation should observe the appropriate emphasis.

The program in Leadership and Education offers two degrees, which differ in their emphases, purposes, and the envisioned careers of those who pursue them.

The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree signifies professional competence and expertise in practice, requires a wide knowledge of theory and research that influences educational policy and practice, and emphasizes the ability to identify and propose useful solutions to complex leadership problems in education.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree requires high research competence in the methods of inquiry, analysis, and exposition, emphasizes scholarly research that sheds light on an area of interest for other scholars and practitioners, and signifies the attainment of broad conceptual and research skills applicable to the investigation of government, education, health, and related organization problems and the elaboration of testable hypotheses and theoretical constructs.