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Explore our Advanced Online EdD Programs

Online Programs

Explore our Advanced Online EdD Programs

Whether you're a seasoned educator or an aspiring change-maker in the field, our Online Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) program promises a transformative journey. Dive deep into the intricacies of education policy, leadership, and organizational strategies, all while benefiting from the flexibility of online learning. Beyond the curriculum, you'll unlock a variety of valuable life skills, networking opportunities, and personal growth avenues. Join us as we explore the multifaceted benefits of an online Ed.D., and unlock the potential to reshape the future of education.

Online Doctor of Education (EdD)

The College of Education at Illinois is home to one of the nation’s top-ranked online graduate education programs. Upon program completion, your diploma will include the following: Doctor of Education in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership. Transcripts will include Doctor of Education in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership and your program concentration.

To apply for the Doctor of Education program, you must have the following:

  • A previously earned master’s degree from an accredited institution  
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0  
  • Academic Statement  
  • Personal Statement  
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae  
  • 3 Letters of Reference  
  • Transcripts

Please refer to the How to Apply webpage for more details on application requirements.

To graduate, students must complete the following:

  • 64 total credit hours
  • Two written qualifying examinations
  • Preliminary and final oral examinations
  • A Doctoral Dissertation

For a complete list of program requirements, please visit the Doctor of Education section of the Graduate Handbook. Admitted students will be assigned a faculty advisor.   

Program Details

Course Format: Fully Online  | Credit Hours: 64  |  Course Duration: 8 Weeks and 4 Credit Hours Each

Tuition Costs: $520 per credit hour.*Financial Aid: All students are encouraged to apply.

EdD Application Deadline: Fall Admission Only. Fall Application Deadline is April 15th.

Diversity & Equity in Education

Education Policy, Organization and Leadership

A social-justice oriented program that aims at providing educators with transformative approaches with transformative approaches to issues related to diversity and equity in P-16 learning environments.

Global Studies in Education

Education Policy, Organization and Leadership

Deals with global change and education from social justice and critical democracy perspectives. Focuses on the globalization of policy, pedagogy in different contexts including online environments, and children and youth studies.

Human Resource Development

Education Policy, Organization and Leadership

Provides the knowledge and applied processes used to improve workplace performance and individual learning in organizations.

International Education Administration & Leadership

Education Policy, Organization and Leadership

Trains professionals to lead, develop, implement, and evaluate international programming and internationalization activities in business/industry and postsecondary settings, in both private and public sectors.

Learning Design & Leadership

Education Policy, Organization and Leadership

Provides educators and training/learning development professionals the opportunity to learn how to create more engaging learning environments by integrating new media technologies.

Beyond the Title: The Comprehensive Benefits of an Online Doctorate in Education

Embarking on an online Ed.D. journey with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is more than just earning a degree. It will transform your career, expand your horizons, and make a lasting impact in the world of education. Apply today and unlock your true potential!

Unlock Your Potential with an Online Doctorate in Education

As educators and leaders in the field, pursuing knowledge is a personal and professional endeavor. Choosing to complete an online EdD program is a testament to this commitment, but it also provides several benefits for your personal and professional life:

 

  • Greater Job Opportunities: A Doctorate of Education is more than just a title — it's a mark of expertise. With this degree, you can access a broader spectrum of roles in the education sector. The opportunities are vast and varied, from administrative positions to policy-making roles, from research to consultancy.
  • Enhanced Skill Set: Online EdD programs are meticulously crafted to provide depth and breadth. You'll gain insights into education policy, delve into organizational strategies, and master leadership techniques, ensuring you're well-equipped to navigate the multifaceted world of education.
  • Recognition and Credibility: In the academic and professional world, an EdD symbolizes dedication and expertise. Your insights and recommendations will be sought after, and your contributions to the field will be held in high regard.
  • Personal Growth: Beyond the professional realm, pursuing online Doctoral programs in education fosters personal development. The rigorous research, in-depth discussions, and diverse perspectives you'll encounter will challenge and expand your worldview, promoting critical thinking and self-reflection.
  • Contribution to the Field: With an EdD, you're not just a consumer of knowledge — you're a contributor. Whether through original research, policy development, or innovative educational strategies, you'll have the tools and platform to make a tangible impact on the future of education.
  • Networking and Collaboration: Doctorate programs, especially online EdD programs, attract a diverse group of professionals worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to collaborate, share experiences, and forge lasting professional relationships that can lead to collaborative projects, research, and more.
  • Financial Rewards: Advanced degrees often come with the added benefit of increased earning potential. An online EdD lets you leverage your expertise to negotiate better compensation packages, especially in senior leadership or specialized positions.
  • Lifelong Learning: As a Doctor of Education, you become a beacon for lifelong learning, inspiring others — be it students, colleagues, or the community at large — to pursue their educational aspirations.

 

Choosing to pursue an Online Doctorate of Education is a transformative decision, one that promises not only professional advancement but also personal enrichment. With each module, research project, and discussion, you'll be opening doors to opportunities and insights that will shape your career and the future of education.

 

 

Why Complete Your Doctorate of Education Online?

The digital revolution has reshaped the world of education, making advanced degrees more accessible than ever before. Opting for an online EdD program offers a plethora of advantages tailored to the modern learner. Here are a few ways you can benefit from online learning:

 

  • Flexibility: One of the most significant advantages of completing EdD programs online is the flexibility they offer. Whether you're juggling a full-time job, family commitments, or both, completing a PhD education online allows you to study at your convenience, whether you’re at your best in the early mornings, late nights, or weekends.
  • Cost-Effective: Traditional campus-based programs often come with additional costs like commuting, housing, and campus fees. When you choose online doctorate programs, education becomes much more accessible by eliminating many of these expenses. Our online programs do not have any additional fees.
  • Networking Opportunities: Online EdD programs attract a diverse range of professionals worldwide. This global classroom environment provides a unique platform to exchange ideas, share experiences, and even collaborate on international projects.
  • Access to Diverse Resources: Online platforms often provide students with a wealth of resources, from the world-renowned UIUC library and online databases to webinars and interactive classes. This ensures that you have a comprehensive learning experience with all the materials you need at your fingertips.
  • Personalized Learning Environment: Not everyone thrives in a traditional classroom setting. Online learning allows you to create a personalized study environment that suits your needs, whether it's a quiet home office or a local coffee shop.
  • Continuous Feedback and Support: Our Online EdD program offers robust support systems, each student has a dedicated faculty advisor, access to an online student advisor, and 24/7 technical support. This ensures that you have a smooth learning experience and that you’re able to seek support for any challenges promptly.
  • Work-Life-Study Balance: Pursuing a doctorate is demanding, but online programs offer the added advantage of integrating seamlessly into your daily life. This balance ensures that you can maintain your professional commitments and personal life while advancing your education.

 

Choosing to complete your EdD online is not just a practical decision; it's a strategic one. It aligns with the evolving dynamics of the 21st-century learner, ensuring that you receive a quality education that fits into your lifestyle. Embrace the future of learning and unlock the myriad benefits that online Doctorate of Education programs have to offer.

 

 

Online Ed.D. Programs: More than a Doctorate

Embarking on a journey to your doctorate isn’t just about acquiring a prestigious title or diving deep into educational theories. It's a transformative experience that equips you with a diverse set of skills, both within and beyond the realm of education. Here's a more comprehensive look at the broader life skills you'll cultivate:

 

  • Leadership: An Ed.D. program is designed to mold future leaders in the educational sector. Through various modules and practical experiences, you'll learn to inspire teams, drive organizational change, and make strategic decisions that have a lasting impact.
  • Patience: The world of education is dynamic and often requires a long-term vision. Through research, discussions, and practical applications, you'll develop the patience to understand that meaningful change often takes time and persistence.
  • Empathy: One of the most important qualities in an educator is empathy, ensuring that you create an inclusive, positive environment for your students. 
  • Problem-Solving: Addressing real-world educational challenges will be a significant part of your journey. This will hone your ability to think critically, analyze complex situations, and devise effective solutions.
  • Communication: Effective communication is at the heart of any leadership role. Throughout the program, you'll refine your ability to convey ideas clearly, present research findings, and engage in constructive debates, ensuring your voice is both heard and understood.
  • Adaptability: The digital nature of online Ed.D. programs means you'll be exposed to various technological tools and platforms. This experience will foster adaptability, preparing you to navigate and embrace the ever-evolving technological landscape of modern education.
  • Research Expertise: A significant portion of the Ed.D. journey revolves around research. You'll develop a keen eye for detail, learn to critically evaluate existing literature, and contribute original insights to the field.
  • Collaboration: Working on group projects, participating in online discussions, and collaborating on research will enhance your teamwork skills. You'll learn the art of collaboration, understanding different perspectives, and achieving common goals.
  • Ethical Judgment: Education is a field deeply rooted in ethics. Your studies will instill a strong sense of ethical judgment, ensuring you make decisions that prioritize the well-being and development of learners and the broader community.
  • Time Management: Balancing rigorous academic commitments with personal and professional responsibilities will sharpen your time management skills. You'll learn to prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and maximize productivity.
  • Cultural Competence: Interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds in an online setting will enhance your cultural awareness and sensitivity. This competence is invaluable in today's globalized world, ensuring you approach educational challenges with a holistic, inclusive perspective.

 

An online Doctorate in Education is a holistic journey that goes beyond academic excellence. It's about personal growth, professional development, and acquiring a versatile skill set that prepares you for challenges both inside and outside the classroom. As you navigate this journey, you'll emerge not just as a doctorate holder, but as a well-rounded individual ready to make a meaningful impact in various spheres of life.

Why Choose the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ?

Comprehensive Course Offerings

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, our online Ed.D. program is meticulously designed to cover all facets of education policy, organization, and leadership. Our curriculum is both comprehensive and relevant, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.

 

Duration & Flexibility

We understand the demands of modern life. Our online Doctoral program is designed to offer flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. Our course format is fully online, with a duration of 8 weeks for Fall & Spring and 6 weeks for Summer sessions. This structure provides students with the flexibility to balance their studies with other commitments, making it ideal for working professionals. Our course format is fully online, with a duration of 8 weeks for Fall & Spring and 6 weeks for Summer sessions. This structure allows students to balance their studies with other commitments, making it ideal for working professionals. The program consists of online video synchronous sessions that typically meet once per week, Monday - Thursday, between 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm CT. These sessions are required and are designed for you to interact with your course instructors and peers synchronously for enriched learning experiences.

 

Accreditation & Recognition

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is renowned for its top-ranked and nationally accredited online graduate education programs. When you earn your Ed.D. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, you're not just getting a degree — you're joining an elite group of alumni from one of the nation's most respected institutions. Your diploma and transcripts will reflect the high standard of education you've received, enhancing your credibility in the professional world.

 

Embarking on an online Ed.D. journey with Illinois is more than just earning a degree. It will transform your career, expand your horizons, and make a lasting impact in the world of education. Apply today and unlock your true potential!

 

 

Application Deadlines

Completed applications, including all additional materials requested, are due by the following application dates.

Questions

For more information about our online programs, contact us

More Information

*Tuition and fees are direct costs charged by the university. The cost of attendance also includes indirect cost allowances for food, housing, books, supplies, and other expenses. You will not be billed by the university for these costs unless you live in university housing.  Use the Illinois Cost Calculator for an estimated cost of attendance. Online students will only be charged tuition at the rate of $520 per credit hour. Tuition rates are subject to change.