EdD vs PhD: What’s the Difference?

Decide whether the EdD or PhD is the right path for you.

If you’re considering a Doctor of Education (EdD) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in education, you’re likely asking which best aligns with your career goals and what sets them apart. While both cultivate an expertise in education, they serve different purposes, emphasize different types of research and prepare graduates for distinct professional outcomes. 

Choosing between an EdD or PhD depends on whether you want your research to be applied situationally as an education practitioner or anchored in literature and focused on contributing to scholarly knowledge. An education doctorate focuses on applying research to solve problems in educational leadership, while a philosophy doctorate in education is centered on academic research and theories in education. 

What is an EdD?

An EdD is a professional degree that emphasizes practical application. This path is designed for those interested in leadership roles within educational settings. It emphasizes practical application — using research to address specific challenges faced by schools and organizations.  

Candidates often develop an improvement plan as the central focus of their research. EdD graduates typically move into positions in K-12 institutions, colleges, universities or education-focused agencies.  

What is a PhD?

A PhD is a research-driven degree, ideal for individuals eager to contribute new knowledge and theory within academia or policy-making environments. Coursework and dissertation work sharpen skills in strategic thinking, data analysis and leadership with a strong emphasis on developing expertise in a specialized area.  

A PhD requires candidates with strong research capacity and encourages tight integration of disciplinary theory with practical orientations, creating leaders across many professions.  

PhD in Strategic Leadership in Education 

Belmont University's Strategic Leadership in Education (SLE) PhD is not exclusive to K-12 teachers, allowing candidates to explore a field of their choosing, including but not limited to:

• Higher Education
• Student Affairs
• Nonprofits
• K-12 Administration
• Healthcare Leadership

Unlike most programs across the nation, Belmont's SLE PhD equips graduates as both senior leaders in education-oriented organizations and as scholars in the field of educational leadership. 

This program is intentionally designed with a multi-disciplinary approach with PhD candidates selecting a concentration in: 

• Educational Leadership, 

• Educational Leadership + Instructional Leader License, 

• Faith and Justice Leadership, 

• Management/Entrepreneurship or 

• Higher Education 

Belmont’s PhD stands out for its focus on developing scholars capable of building new knowledge while maintaining relevance across sectors. It encourages collaboration, leadership and mentoring, extending opportunities beyond the K-12 realm. 

What’s the difference between EdD and PhD?

The difference between an EdD and PhD becomes clear when you consider the type of research, the focus of the dissertation and the typical duration of the program. An EdD focuses on the practical application of research to solve real-world problems in educational leadership, while a PhD emphasizes original research and the development of new theories to advance academic knowledge. 

Research Concentration

An EdD centers on applied research as projects are designed to solve real-world problems in educational settings and improve practices within organizations. In contrast, a PhD is rooted in extensive research focusing on advancing theory, exploring new ideas and contributing to academic scholarship. 

Dissertation Focus

A dissertation is an extended, independent research project that lets graduate students dive into a topic, develop expertise and contribute specific, new insights to their field. EdD dissertations are typically situated in practice, designed to address or improve a specific challenge within a system, often resulting in actionable plans. PhD dissertations generally aim to fill gaps in literature, advance theory and respond to calls within the academic community for new scholarship.  

Program Duration 

EdDs are usually completed in three years or less, suitable for those seeking to accelerate their professional development or prefer residency and mentorship models. These programs are commonly structured to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, offering flexible formats such as hybrid or part-time options. 

PhD programs may require a more research-intensive commitment, often taking 4 to 7 years as students immerse themselves in advanced courses and extended dissertation research. PhDs, like Belmont’s Strategic Leadership in Education PhD, offer multi-disciplinary approaches and prepare scholars for sustained innovation in many professions, not just education. 

Selecting Where to Get a Doctorate of Philosophy or Education

When choosing between terminal degrees, consider how coursework aligns with your career aspirations and lifestyle. Look for flexible graduate education programs, such as those with hybrid learning models, cohort-based support and credit options that fit your schedule.  

Determine whether the programs you’re considering offer mentorship matching as this can be a helpful resource for developing your skills and expanding your professional network. Belmont SLE PhD places special emphasis on mentorship, making the program especially appealing by providing connections to various industries and field experts.  When programs feature structured mentorship, you’ll benefit from ongoing support and personalized advice, making your graduate experience more rewarding and effective. Faculty expertise and program reputation will also shape your learning environment by connecting you to a distinguished academic community.