If you’re interested in getting your doctoral degree, and you already have an advanced degree in Education, then getting your phd in education in the next logical step.

The need for highly qualified professionals in the field of education has never been greater, and enrolling in phd programs in education ensures that you’ll have the skills you need to affect change in this vital environment.

Why Get a PhD in Education?

There is no doubt that the world is changing at breakneck speeds these days.  Every time we turn around technology has changed, and every years brings more and more innovate ways to learn and disseminate information.

Getting your doctorate in education means that you’ll be at the helm of the changing needs of our educational system.  You’ll be researching trends and teaching methods to ensure that the next generation of students has everything they need to learn effectively.

Our educational system is facing a number of pressing challenges.  We’re teaching diverse classrooms, and trying to keep pace with the rest of the world to ensure that our students stay competitive in the future of a global market.  For those of you who are interested at having a real part in keeping our educational system up to date with these changes, then a phd in education is for you.

What You’ll Learn in a PhD Education Degree Program

The classes you take in doctoral programs in education are varied and incredibly interesting.  You’ll be learning about what teaching methods and procedures are most effective for student learning.

Here are a few that were taken from several different education phd programs:

• Issues and Research in Education
• Planning and Leading Change
• Ethics and Values in Learning Institutions
• Instructional Leadership
• Legal Context of Education
• Educational Economics
• Social Contexts and Contemporary Issues
• Special Education Administration
• The Future of Teaching and Learning
• Curriculum Development

You can also choose a specialty with a phd in education.  Some examples include:

• Phd in Educational Leadership
• Phd in Educational Psychology
• Phd in Educational Technology
• Phd in Special Education
• Phd in Higher Education
• Phd in Adult Education Leadership

Careers With a Doctorate in Education

With a doctorate in education, you can be sure that there will be plenty of open doors when you go out looking for a job.  Consequently, there is a lot you can do with a doctoral degree in education.

Many students want to teach at the university level, become president of a specific department, or head a private or public university.  This level of educational leadership is only available for those with a phd in education, or its equivalent.

You can expect to earn between $60,000 to $75,000 or more as a university professor.

If you would like to work in a public school setting, then you should know that career prospects are growing fast in this area, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.   Salaries for school principals range from $75,000 t $85,000 or more, depending on your district and the age of the children you’re leading.  Deans and superintendents also make good money.

Another highly sought-after area with this degree is work in the private sector.  With a phd in education you can work for companies helping them design learning material and curriculums.  It’s hard to say what the salary ranges are for this type of work, since it’s so varied, but you can bet you’ll be well compensated for what you do.

You can also work on your own as an educational consultant.  Educational consultants help colleges and universities, and public and private schools, attract more students, trim their budgets, or gather vital research data on things like demographics.  They help them stay competitive and assist with fundraising and student/teacher relations.  It’s an industry that’s growing fast, resulting in new career opportunities for people with a phd in education.  You can expect to earn anywhere from $40,000 to $110,000 or more in this field, according to the Chronicle of Higher Education.

It’s important to point out here that if you go through online education phd programs that you make sure that the school you choose is accredited, and approved by your state as well as the Board of Education.  Because standards are so high in the education industry, it’s vital that you choose an excellent school (and not one that’s going to take your money and run, which as happened to others in the past).

Spend plenty of time researching online doctoral education programs to make sure that you make the best choice!