Top Schools with Online EdS to EdD Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online EdS to EdD program?

Online EdS to EdD programs are designed for education professionals who want to move on to leadership roles. They offer a streamlined pathway to a terminal degree by recognizing previous graduate-level work and building on that foundation to deepen students’ expertise. 

You can expect the following in these programs:

• Topics: Coursework often covers leadership theory, organizational change, and research design. Students learn how to apply these concepts to real-world challenges, such as improving student outcomes or addressing systemic barriers. 
• Main Requirements: Candidates typically produce a dissertation or applied research project. Many programs also require you to participate in residencies or seminars.
• Program Format: Classes are primarily online, using asynchronous or synchronous methods. Many also follow a cohort model that fosters collaboration and professional networking among peers. 

By the time graduates complete the degree, they gain not only stronger research and leadership skills but also the professional credibility that comes with holding a doctorate in education.

Where can I work with an online EdS to EdD?

Graduates of online EdS to EdD programs are equipped for leadership and research roles across many sectors. Opportunities extend well beyond schools, allowing graduates to contribute to both education-focused and broader professional environments.

• Teaching and Administration: Many work as superintendents, principals, or deans who oversee schools and districts. Their responsibilities include shaping curriculum, managing faculty, and ensuring that institutions meet academic and operational standards.
• Public Policy: Some move into policy-making positions by advising on state or national education initiatives. They conduct research, evaluate programs, and recommend changes that improve student learning outcomes. 
• Training and Development (T&D): In corporations or universities, graduates design professional development programs and leadership training. They create strategies to improve organizational culture and employee performance. 
• Nonprofits and Government: Graduates can also contribute to organizations addressing social issues like literacy, access, and equity. They often manage grants, develop community programs, or lead advocacy campaigns. 
• Research Centers and Human Resources: Some join think tanks or universities as researchers, producing data that informs education and workforce practices. Others move into HR leadership roles, where they oversee organizational learning and employee engagement. 

How much can I make with an online EdS to EdD?

By completing online EdS to EdD programs, graduates can explore different roles with promising annual incomes. Generally, the average annual income for these positions land between $70,000 and $100,000 or more.

One of the most common career options, educational administrators in postsecondary institutions, provide yearly salaries at $124,450 annually. Their yearly salary ranges from $63,820 at the 10th percentile to a whopping $212,420 at the 90th percentile.

Administrators in the K–12 levels earn slightly less, at $113,360. The salary range is between $72,400 and $165,820. Meanwhile, professionals in high-level T&D and HR roles take home $140,590 and $160,480 respectively, with ranges between $75,000 and over $219 239.

However, location, additional credentials or certifications, and employer type also influence annual salaries. Typically, those in states with higher costs of living tend to earn more than peers in rural or less-populated regions. Educators and administrators who hold specialized certifications, like superintendent licensure or advanced instructional leadership credentials, may also see higher pay. 

In addition, those working in large districts, prestigious universities, or corporate organizations often command stronger salaries compared to peers in smaller schools or nonprofits. Overall, the financial rewards for graduates are substantial and align with the leadership responsibilities these positions demand. 

Top Schools with Online EdS to EdD Programs

1. Murray State University

The EdD program in P-20 and Community Leadership at Murray State University offers a pathway for professionals with an EdS from a regionally accredited school. The program is designed to develop forward-thinking leaders who can champion P-20 initiatives that positively impact schools, communities, and organizations. With faculty approval, students can transfer up to 30 credits toward the doctorate, allowing them to complete the program more efficiently. Cohorts meet on campus or through Zoom several weekends each semester, while most coursework is delivered online, concluding with a five-chapter dissertation. 

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: EdS to EdD Bridge 
• Cost per Credit: $618.50
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30–60
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Alverno College

At Alverno College, students in the EdS to EdD program can transfer 15 credits from their EdS. The program combines flexible online learning with a single on-campus weekend residency, making it a practical option for working educators. Participants move through the program in a small cohort, which helps them build lasting professional and academic connections. Courses include Advanced Research Methods, Transformational Leadership, and Equity in Diverse Educational Settings.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: EdS to EdD Bridge 
• Estimated Cost: $40,677
• Required Credits to Graduate: 39
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University offers an EdD program that admits students who hold an EdS or have prior doctoral-level coursework. Students transfer 30 EdS credits and complete 36 additional credits in leadership, research, and dissertation development, with each course supporting progress toward their final project. The program develops leaders who can advance educational knowledge through research. With dedicated faculty mentors guiding a small group of students, candidates gain the support needed to create practical solutions and promote inclusive learning environments.

• Program Length: 26 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: Educational Leadership
• Cost per Credit: $638
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30–66
• Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

4. University of Bridgeport

At the University of Bridgeport, the hybrid EdD in Educational Leadership offers a specialization in International Education for students with a Sixth-Year or EdS. This program delivers coursework online while requiring two one-week summer residencies on campus during the first two years to foster collaboration and engagement. Students connect with peers from around the world and work closely with faculty through interactive projects, discussions, and assignments, before dedicating the third year to their dissertation. The university also permits up to six graduate transfer credits. 

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: International Education
• Cost per Credit: $720
• Required Credits to Graduate: 42–62
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

5. University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas features an EdD in Educational Leadership that equips educators to take on advanced leadership roles in a variety of educational settings. Open to applicants with a master’s degree, the program also allows transfer credits with departmental approval. It blends online coursework with weekly live sessions and three on-campus weekend seminars each year, where students strengthen their research and connect classroom learning with real-world practice. These sessions include lectures from experts, group discussions, and opportunities for peer review to help students refine their dissertation projects. 

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Educational Leadership
• Cost per Credit: $512.66
• Required Credits to Graduate: 42
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

6. William Carey University

William Carey University’s EdD program is for education professionals who want to grow into leadership roles. Students with an EdS in leadership or a related discipline may transfer the degree in full, as long as they first complete two prerequisite courses. The curriculum covers strategic planning, effective leadership, resource management, and applied research to prepare students for real-world challenges. Offered fully online and without required live sessions, the program provides maximum flexibility for busy educators completing their capstone project.

• Program Length: 2–3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Educational Leadership
• Cost per Credit: $525
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30–60
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University offers an EdD in Educational Leadership that provides working professionals with the flexibility to focus on either PK–12 or higher education. Held mostly online, the program combines theoretical study with practical application, covering educational research, organizational change, leadership ethics, and culture. Students must also attend a one-week summer residency, and they may transfer up to 24 credits from an approved EdS. They can also customize their coursework to align with their professional interests and complete a dissertation that showcases their advanced leadership and research skills.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: K-12 Leadership, K-12 Curriculum, Higher Education Leadership, Educational Technology
• Cost per Credit: $550
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30–66
• Accreditation: HLC

8. Belhaven University 

Belhaven University provides an EdD in Educational Leadership and allows students to transfer up to 30 credits from an EdS, depending on faculty evaluation. The program features primarily online coursework along with two required residencies on campus, giving students opportunities to meet faculty, collaborate with peers, and receive guidance from their dissertation chair. Coursework emphasizes both theory and practice, equipping candidates to address complex and emerging issues in education. A 12-credit dissertation serves as the capstone of the program.

• Program Length: 2–3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Educational Leadership
• Cost per Credit: $500–$635
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30–60
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University’s EdS program can apply up to 30 credits toward the EdD in Educational Leadership for university graduates, while applicants from other institutions may be considered for transfer credit. The program begins with an optional on-campus orientation and then moves into live online classes held two evenings each week. Core leadership and research courses are paired with specialized concentrations. With a focus on equity, sustainability, and applied practice, the program prepares leaders to drive meaningful improvements across educational systems.

• Program Length: 2–3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Interdisciplinary Studies, Higher Education, Educational Administration, Instructional Technology Leadership, Literacy in Exceptionalities
• Cost per Credit: $336.77 (in-state); $1,290.72 (out-of-state)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30–60
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. Regent University

Regent University offers the EdD in K–12 School Leadership program built for teachers who want to earn administrative endorsement and step into leadership positions. Courses follow the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (PSEL) and meet the Virginia Department of Education requirements for pre-K–12 Administration and Supervision. Students can transfer up to 49% of a prior graduate degree, upon faculty evaluation. With a focus on research, critical thinking, and innovative leadership, the program equips graduates to drive institutional change and strengthen educational systems.

• Program Length: 2–3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: K–12 School Leadership
• Cost per Credit: $820
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30–61
• Accreditation: CAEP

What is the difference between an EdS, EdD, and a PhD?

Educators wishing to pursue online EdS to EdD programs must first understand the distinctions between an EdS, EdD, and PhD. Doing so can help clarify their academic goals and choose the best career paths.

• Education Specialist (EdS): This post-master’s degree focuses on advanced training without requiring a dissertation. It helps professionals deepen expertise in specific roles, like curriculum instructors, school psychologists, PK–12 principals. EdS programs usually span one to two years and require 30 credits.
• Doctor of Education (EdD): This is a terminal degree that requires dissertations or capstones. It emphasizes the application of research in solving real-world problems in schools, districts, or higher education, with graduates ready for roles as superintendents, college deans or presidents, or chief learning officers. Most programs require 60 credits and last two to three years.
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): The PhD in education is research-intensive and aimed at developing original scholarship and advancing theory. Students conduct in-depth studies and often prepare for careers as professors in higher education, researchers, consultants. PhD programs usually need 90 credits and take three to six years to complete.

While these degrees sometimes have an overlap, each offers unique opportunities and should be selected based on personal aspirations and long-term career objectives. Overall, the benefits of an EdS degree include gaining advanced expertise on applied leadership and practical skills in a shorter timeframe. 

The EdD emphasizes problem-solving and preparing educators for executive-level leadership roles, while the PhD is best suited for those pursuing intensive research and academic careers. For many professionals, EdS to EdD programs create a seamless bridge between specialized practice and terminal-level study, strengthening both leadership capacity and career prospects.

In 2024, educational administration and supervision programs recorded 105,236 enrollments, ranking as the leading concentration across graduate education programs. This indicates a continued need for skilled leaders in the field and reflects the growing preference for pathways that combine advanced expertise with practical leadership development. 

This chart displays the enrollment for education programs at the graduate level.

Should teachers pursue online EdS to EdD programs?

For many teachers, a bachelor’s or master’s degree suffices for their role, though many educators in colleges or universities hold master’s degrees. So, they might wonder if pursuing a terminal degree is worth it. 

For many teachers, holding a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, which is typically more common among higher education teachers, is sufficient for their current role. Still, some educators might wonder whether pursuing a terminal degree could open new doors in their careers. 

As teaching careers progress, many professionals feel called to contribute beyond the classroom. They may want to influence district-level decisions, design innovative curricula or higher education programs, or shape policies that impact teaching and learning on a broader scale. 

For these educators, online EdS to EdD programs provide a structured pathway to advanced leadership and scholarly opportunities. It is worth noting, however, that those with only a bachelor’s degree will typically need to complete a master’s or EdS first to meet EdD admissions requirements.

Although leadership roles are rewarding, they also come with challenges, with 85% of principals reporting significant stress tied to their jobs and 19% not coping well with this stress (Steiner et al., 2022).

Many doctoral-level training equips educators with strategies to handle complex responsibilities, build resilience, and lead with confidence despite these pressures. In addition, EdS to EdD programs gain deep expertise in research, educational leadership, and systemic improvement.

Ultimately, choosing to pursue this degree comes down to an educator’s long-term goals. Those who plan to stay in classroom teaching may find advanced certifications adequate, while educators seeking leadership or research opportunities will gain more from doctoral-level study. 

How long does it take to complete an online EdS to EdD program?

The time to complete online EdS to EdD programs varies, though it generally takes two to three years. Students who are able to transfer credits may be able to graduate within two years. In contrast, students who need to accrue prerequisite courses or some part-time students may take longer. 

Professionals with only a bachelor’s degree may also need to extend their timelines since they may need to earn an EdS first. Luckily, there are many accelerated options, such as the shortest EdS in special education online, which help teachers advance quickly through intensive formats.

The largest factor influencing the program duration is usually the dissertation progress. Completing the dissertation or capstone project often adds time, since research, writing, and revisions require close collaboration with faculty advisors. For this reason, even highly motivated students may find that the final stage of the program takes longer than expected.

The key is selecting a program structure that matches both career goals and lifestyle, ensuring the degree is earned at a manageable pace without compromising quality or outcomes. It is also best to consult with an academic advisor or a faculty dissertation mentor to map out a realistic timeline and stay on track for graduation.

Can you skip an EdS and go directly to an EdD?

Depending on the institution’s admission standards, it may be possible to move directly to an EdD program by skipping an EdS. This pathway can be seen among educators who already hold a master’s degree and want to pursue a leadership role but do not necessarily want another post-master’s specialist credential like an EdS.

Students who apply without an EdS need to meet master’s in education requirements, such as maintaining a competitive GPA, demonstrating leadership or administrative experience, and completing prerequisite graduate coursework. Because they cannot transfer the 20 to 30 credits that EdS holders often bring, these candidates usually complete a longer sequence of doctoral-level classes. 

Notably, according to the Council of Graduate Schools (Lanier et al., 2024), the number of doctoral degrees awarded grew by 9.8% between 2021–22 and 2022–23, slightly outpacing the 9% increase in master’s degrees. Yet, master’s programs have consistently remained the more popular choice over the last decade (2012–13 to 2022–23). Even so, the long-term advantages of completing an EdD are significant, as it represents a terminal degree that opens doors to senior leadership roles across and beyond education.

This is where online EdS to EdD programs become especially valuable, offering a streamlined pathway for curriculum specialists, principals, and district-level leaders to advance into superintendents, provosts, or college presidents.

While only a limited number of schools offer dedicated bridge programs, many institutions still review prior graduate-level coursework to determine transfer credits, thus helping reduce both cost and time to degree completion.

What is the average cost of an online EdS to EdD program?

The price of pursuing a doctoral degree can vary significantly, and this is true for online EdS to EdD programs as well. On average, the tuition and fees for doctoral programs cost around $12,270 in public four-year institutions and about $51,940 in private universities (Ma et al., 2024).

Tuition is usually calculated on a per-credit basis, with rates ranging from about $400 to $1,200 per credit depending on the institution. Since most programs require between 45 and 60 credits beyond the EdS, the total tuition often falls between $20,000 and $60,000, not including fees or books.

Other costs to consider include technology fees, research or dissertation support fees, and expenses for required residencies or weekend seminars. Financial aid, employer tuition assistance, and institutional scholarships can help ease the financial burden, making the degree more accessible to working educators.

When evaluating costs, it is also important to look beyond tuition and consider long-term returns. Completing this type of degree may open doors to higher-paying leadership roles, career advancement, and broader professional opportunities, making it a worthwhile investment.

What specializations are available in online EdS to EdD programs?

Many online EdS to EdD programs provide concentrations that allow students to focus their coursework and research on areas that match their career goals. These options include the following:

• PK–12 Leadership: This specialization prepares to become principals, superintendents, and curriculum directors. Coursework emphasizes school management, instructional leadership, and student achievement. 
• Higher Education Leadership: Students gain skills in college and university governance, student affairs, and academic program management. Courses address issues such as access, enrollment, and institutional strategy. 
• Curriculum and Instruction: The focus of this specialization is on designing assessment methods, implementing instructional strategies, and evaluating effective curricula. This skillset aligns well with broader trends demanding accountability and growth in professional organizations, especially since performance management (26%) and learning and development (21%) ranked among the top HR priorities in 2024.
• Educational Technology: This specialization integrates digital tools with learning design to improve educational outcomes. Students study online learning environments, instructional media, and emerging technologies.
• Special Education Leadership: Coursework centers on policies, practices, and program development for diverse learners. Candidates explore advanced topics such as inclusive education, intervention strategies, and compliance. 
• Organizational Leadership: Similar to online EdS programs in leadership, this specialization emphasizes managing change, building teams, and driving institutional success in nonprofit, government, or corporate organizations. Coursework combines theory with practice in ethics, policy, and strategic planning.

Specializations allow candidates to align their studies with future career plans, making the degree more targeted and meaningful. By selecting a concentration that matches their expertise and aspirations, students can graduate with the skills most relevant to their professional pathways.

How to choose the best online EdS to EdD program?

Selecting the right doctoral program requires careful consideration of both academic and personal factors. Looking closely at the features of online EdS to EdD programs can ensure the degree provides long-term value. Be sure to research the following:

• Accreditation: This guarantees that the degree is widely recognized and meets the standards of quality. It also ensures eligibility for financial aid and potential transfer of credits.
• Transfer Credit Policy: Some programs allow up to 30 EdS credits to be applied toward the doctorate. Policies vary by school, so it is important to confirm early.
• Curriculum and Specializations: Review courses to check focus options that match your interests or career goals. Choosing the right track can shape your future opportunities.
• Format and Flexibility: Many EdS to EdD programs are fully online, while others combine remote courses with occasional residencies or weekend seminars. Choosing a format that fits your schedule and learning style will make it easier to stay engaged throughout the program.
• Student Support Services: Look for programs that offer access to academic advisors, dissertation mentors, technical assistance, and career counseling. These resources help you navigate challenges and stay on track from your first course to graduation.
• Faculty Expertise: Evaluate the faculty’s research, publications, and professional backgrounds. Strong faculty support can enhance your dissertation and career preparation. 
• Cost and Financial Aid: Compare the total expenses across various programs. Look into university scholarships and other financial aid options to help offset costs.

By comparing each of these elements carefully, you can make an informed decision and pursue a degree that truly supports your professional growth.

What career paths are available for graduates of online EdS to EdD programs?

Graduates of online EdS to EdD programs are prepared to step into influential leadership roles across different industries. Career opportunities span K-12 schools, higher education, government agencies, nonprofits, and corporate training environments.

• Education Policy Analysts ($65,126): They study data and trends to recommend improvements in education systems while ensuring reforms address educational inequities tied to income status, gender, race, and broader social factors. Their work often influences large-scale policy changes and funding priorities aimed at creating more equitable access to education.
• Instructional Coordinators ($77,600): These professionals design, implement, and evaluate school curricula. They often train teachers on new instructional methods and integrate technology into learning. 
• Education Consultants ($94,974): Consultants advise schools, organizations, or governments on improving programs and systems. They may focus on curriculum design, technology integration, or leadership development. 
• College Academic Deans ($105,749): Deans oversee specific colleges or departments within universities. They are responsible for faculty management, curriculum oversight, and budgetary decisions. 
• K-12 Principals ($113,360): These professionals oversee daily school operations, manage teachers, and ensure academic standards are met. They also handle student discipline, family engagement, and resource allocation. 
• Training and Development Managers ($140,590): Found mostly in corporate or nonprofit settings, they create programs that improve employee skills and organizational effectiveness. They also evaluate training needs, develop materials, and assess outcomes. 
• School Superintendents ($153,044): They lead entire school districts, making decisions about budgets, staffing, and policies. They work closely with school boards to ensure educational excellence across multiple campuses. 
• Chief Learning Officers ($160,062): In corporate or higher education contexts, CLOs develop long-term strategies for employee or student learning. They align education initiatives with organizational goals. 

Pursuing these roles can lead to competitive compensation, with many positions tied to the scope of leadership responsibilities and geographic location. In fact, the doctor of education salary often reflects the high demand for advanced expertise and the impact these roles have on institutions. Therefore, online EdS to EdD programs serve as a powerful pathway for educators to expand their career options, maximize their earning potential, and make a lasting difference in the fields of education, training, and leadership.

This chart shows the wage comparisons among EdD careers.

What is the job market for graduates with an online EdS to EdD?

Graduates of online EdS to EdD programs face a complex but promising job market that reflects the changing needs of education and the broader workforce. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that many traditional teaching roles show modest or even negative growth between 2024 and 2034. Despite this, demand remains steady due to high annual turnover and retirements. 

In the K-12 sector, for example, principals are projected to see a -1.5% decline in growth, yet 20,800 annual job openings remain. Instructional coordinators show a similar pattern, with only 1.3% projected growth but nearly 21,900 yearly opportunities.

In higher education, the employment of administrators is expected to grow by 1.7%, producing 15,100 new opportunities each year, while professors can expect 1.8% growth and 13,500 openings annually. 

Beyond education, corporate and organizational roles show some of the most robust growth for EdD graduates. Training and development managers are projected to grow with 3,800 openings annually, while HR managers show nearly 17,900 yearly job opportunities. These roles highlight how advanced leadership and research skills gained through doctoral study can translate into high-demand fields outside of classrooms.

Overall, the data suggest that although growth is uneven across professions, graduates with advanced leadership preparation remain highly employable. Even in areas of slower growth, steady annual openings ensure consistent opportunities.

Meanwhile, expanding career options in management and organizational leadership create additional pathways, enabling graduates to pursue non-traditional roles that equally recognize and benefit from their expertise. 

This chart reveals the annual opportunities for EdS to EdD graduates.

Which one should you choose: EdS, EdD, or a PhD?

Choosing between an EdS, EdD, or PhD is not always straightforward, as each path supports different professional goals and levels of commitment. Knowing what each offers will help you decide which aligns best with your career aspirations.

Choose an EdS if you…

• want a shorter program than a doctorate that still builds leadership and specialized skills.
• need credentials for administrative or supervisory roles in K–12 education.
• plan to enhance your practice without committing to dissertation research.

Choose an EdD if you…

• aspire to have a more practical approach to solving real-world challenges in schools, universities, or organizations.
• want to grow as a leader who can design and implement systemic change.
• are interested in getting a terminal degree through online EdS to EdD programs, which let you advance seamlessly from prior coursework.

Choose a PhD if you…

• plan to become an educator in higher education or a researcher.
• are comfortable with a longer timeline of study and heavier research emphasis.
• aim to publish extensively and contribute significantly to the scholarly body of knowledge.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on how you want to shape your career. Each degree opens different doors, and aligning your choice with your goals ensures the journey is both rewarding and impactful.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online EdS to EdD Programs

Other Things You Should Know About Online EdS to EdD Programs

Do online EdS to EdD programs require a dissertation?

Yes, most online EdS to EdD programs require a dissertation or a capstone project. The dissertation demonstrates a student’s ability to apply research to practical problems in education. Some schools offer applied research projects as an alternative to the traditional dissertation, but rigorous research and writing are still expected. This requirement ensures graduates can critically evaluate challenges and propose evidence-based solutions in their professional practice.

How prestigious is an EdD?

An EdD is considered a prestigious doctoral degree, especially for educators and administrators pursuing leadership roles. While it differs from a PhD in its applied focus, it still demonstrates a remarkable scholarly achievement and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the field. Graduates often use the title “Doctor” (academic) in professional settings. The degree is highly respected in schools, universities, and organizations.

Is there a 1 year doctorate?

Yes, there are one-year doctorates, though they are usually found in fields like business, organizational leadership, or human resource management programs. These accelerated options often emphasize intensive coursework over extended research.

However, in education, an EdD or PhD takes longer to complete because they require a combination of coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation or applied research project. The timeline reflects the depth of study, scholarly writing, and practical application expected in advanced education leadership training.

Is EdS the same as PhD?

No, an EdS (Education Specialist) is not the same as a PhD. An EdS is a post-master’s degree that provides advanced professional training but does not carry the same research demands as a doctorate nor is it a terminal degree. EdS programs prepare educators for leadership or administrative positions, as well as specialized roles like school psychologists, SpEd teachers/school administrators, or curriculum instructors.

Meanwhile, a PhD is a terminal research degree focused on creating new knowledge through original scholarship, often pursued by those aiming for academic or research-intensive careers.