5 Doctorate in Education Degrees You Can Earn Fast

Doctorate ​in ​Education ​(EdD) programs help education professionals prepare for leadership and problem-solving. These programs cover topics like education technology, management, research, and more.

Hoping to earn your degree as soon as possible? Two-year EdD programs may let you study in an accelerated format. Whereas some EdD programs can take 3+ years, two-year programs aim to streamline your learning and are typically designed for students who have already earned their M.Ed. They may feature online or hybrid courses to save time. And, a structured course sequence may keep you on track to graduation.

Education doctoral programs may be perfect for those pursuing education administrative roles. If you want to make positive changes in your school and have no time to lose, a two-year EdD program may fit your timeline.

5 Schools That Offer 2 Year Ed.D. Programs

While most EdD programs take at least three years for full-time students, we’ve found some exceptions. Learn more about these five partner schools that offer EdD programs you could earn in as few as two years.

1. Walden University
2. Gwynedd Mercy University
3. University of Louisiana at Monroe
4. Valdosta State University
5. Baker University

written by Shannon Fandler

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Benefits of 2 Year Doctoral Programs in Education

Here’s what you may love about earning an accelerated doctoral degree in education:

1. A Fast Track to Making a Difference. Education professionals may be drawn to an Ed.D. program because they want to lead change within their schools. If you’re interested in education leadership and reform, a shorter program could help you take action sooner.
2. A Shorter Path to Your Career Goals. Are you planning to earn an Ed.D. so you can pursue an administrative role? This is the case for many teachers and education professionals. Earning your credential in less time may help you pursue career enhancement at your target pace.
3. Accelerated Ed.D. Programs May Be Cheaper. Most Ed.D. programs charge by the credit rather than the semester. That said, earning your degree more quickly could reduce other expenses – like time off work or technology fees charged by your school.
4. Shortest Doctoral Programs Online May Be Ideal for Your Schedule. Many two-year doctoral programs in education are online. Online learning could save you time and help you progress faster with your coursework. Plus, this format may be perfect for working teachers or other professionals.
5. Some Control Over Your Timeline. Some accelerated Ed.D. programs offer a lot of flexibility to design your schedule. Others structure your coursework so you can finish in a set time. But, you still have to research and write your dissertation. For some, the dissertation process can lengthen the time it takes to earn the Ed.D. But if you’re focused and disciplined, you might be able to keep to your target timeline.

National University

• Earn your degree from a university with a “Whole Human Education” approach that focuses on assisting you in all aspects of your education: academic, emotional, career, financial, and family.
• Choose from 75+ programs: Whether you’re starting fresh or seeking advancement, our career-focused programs are designed to help you make an impact in your chosen field.
• National University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

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• Online Teaching Degrees – Recognized in all 50 States
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What Are the Requirements for 2 Year Ed.D. Programs?

Let’s look at both the requirements for getting into an Ed.D. program and the requirements for graduation. Keep in mind that these vary by school and program.

Possible Ed.D. Admissions Requirements:

• Master’s degree from an accredited school – May need to be in a related discipline
• Official Transcripts – Generally, you must submit transcripts from all postsecondary institutions you attended.
• Minimum GPA – This may vary but is usually in the neighborhood of 3.0 to 3.5 on a 4. 0 scale.
• GMAT or MAT scores – Some programs list minimum scores, and others don’t require test scores at all.
• Valid Teaching Certificate – May be required for certain programs or concentrations
• Resume or CV – Some programs require work experience.
• Letters of Recommendation – These usually need to be from faculty or professionals in your field.
• Personal Statement and/or Writing Sample

Possible Ed.D. Graduation Requirements:

• Coursework – In most Ed.D. programs, you need to earn between 54 and 64 credits.
• GPA – Your program may require you to earn a minimum GPA, usually between 3.0 and 3.25.
• Written Comprehensive Exam – Some programs require students to pass an exam covering everything they learned.

Doctorate Degree Without Dissertation?

Most Ed.D. and Education PhD programs require a dissertation, capstone, or doctoral study. Candidates take courses in planning, researching, and writing the dissertation. Often, they must then defend their work before a committee. Ed.D. programs with no dissertation usually include a scholarly project.

Are There Any 3 Year Doctorate in Education Programs?

We realize that earning your Ed.D in 2 years might be a little aggressive for some people. Many students and professionals find that a more relaxed pace for earning their doctorate in education is to attend a 3 year program.

Featured Schools with 3 year Doctorate in Education Programs:

• Concordia University-Portland: EdD in Educational Leadership – Administrative Leadership
• Northcentral University:Doctor of Education in Instructional Design
• University of Hartford: Doctoral of Educational Leadership

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