EdS vs. Doctorate: Which Is Right for Your Career?

When planning the next step in your education career, one critical decision is whether to pursue an Education Specialist (EdS) degree or a doctoral program like a Doctor of Education (EdD) or a PhD in Education. While both paths offer advanced training and open doors to leadership roles, they differ significantly in focus, depth, and career outcomes.

Read on as we break down the key distinctions between an educational specialist degree vs. doctorate degree — exploring program structure, professional goals, cost considerations, and potential career paths — to help you determine which option best aligns with your aspirations in the field of education.

Understanding the Foundation: Degree Level and Focus

Before deciding between an education specialist vs. doctorate degree, it’s important to understand what each program offers in terms of academic level, specialization, and intended professional outcomes. The distinctions begin with the structure and purpose of each degree.

The Education Specialist (EdS)

The EdS is an advanced graduate degree designed for professionals who already hold a master’s degree and want to deepen their expertise in a specific area of education without committing to a full doctoral program. It typically focuses on practical application in educational settings and prepares individuals for leadership and specialist roles such as curriculum coordinator, school principal, or instructional coach. Unlike a doctoral degree, the EdS does not require a dissertation and is often completed more quickly.

The Doctoral Degrees (EdD and PhD in Education)

Doctoral degrees in education are terminal credentials intended for professionals seeking the highest level of expertise and influence in the field. Both the EdD and PhD offer rigorous academic training, but they diverge in their focus and application.

Doctor of Education (EdD)

The EdD is a professional doctorate geared toward practitioners who want to lead change in educational institutions, policy, or administration. It emphasizes applied research and real-world problem-solving, making it ideal for school leaders, superintendents, and policymakers. EdD programs typically include a dissertation or capstone project focused on practical challenges in education.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education

The PhD in Education is research-intensive and designed for individuals who aim to contribute to academic scholarship or theoretical research. This path is well-suited for those interested in careers in academia, research institutions, or educational policy development. PhD students engage in original research and are often required to teach or publish scholarly work as part of their training.

Charting Your Course: Identify Your Career Goals

To choose the right path when it comes to an education specialist degree vs. doctorate, you’ll need to reflect on your long-term career goals and the type of impact you want to make in the education field. Different roles demand different qualifications, and aligning your ambitions with the right academic path is key.

Aligning Degree Focus With Career Goals

The EdS, EdD, and PhD all serve distinct professional objectives. If you're aiming for practical leadership or specialized school-based roles, the EdS or EdD may be ideal. If your interests lean toward research, academic publishing, or teaching at the university level, the PhD is more appropriate. Understanding how each degree supports your goals can help you make an informed decision.

Considering Different Career Paths

Each degree opens doors to unique career opportunities. Explore some common trajectories based on your professional aspirations.

For Aspiring Leaders and Administrators:

If your goal is to move into school or district leadership roles, both the EdS and EdD offer strong preparation. These programs focus on organizational management, education law, curriculum leadership, and policy implementation. Positions such as school principal, superintendent, curriculum director, or district policy advisor often require — or prefer — candidates with these credentials due to their emphasis on applied knowledge and leadership training.

For Practitioners and Specialists:

Professionals who wish to stay close to student-facing roles while advancing their qualifications may benefit most from an EdS. This degree can deepen expertise in areas like school psychology, counseling, instructional technology, or special education. It equips educators to take on specialist or support roles without the time or research demands of a doctorate, while still earning higher-level credentials.

For Researchers and Academics:

If your passion lies in generating new knowledge, conducting studies, or teaching future educators, the PhD is the most appropriate route. This degree is typically required for tenure-track faculty positions at universities, research scientist roles in think tanks or nonprofits, and academic leadership positions. PhD students gain extensive training in research methodologies and contribute to the theoretical development of the field.

For Policy Analysts and Consultants:

Those aiming to influence educational systems at a macro level may pursue either an EdD or a PhD, depending on their intended approach. An EdD is better suited for those who want to apply research to solve real-world problems and lead policy change from within organizations. In contrast, a PhD is ideal for those who want to develop policy theory, evaluate programs, and work in research-heavy consulting roles or governmental advisory positions.

Program Requirements and Duration for EdS vs. Doctorate

Another key factor in deciding between an EdS and a doctoral degree is understanding what each program entails in terms of time, coursework, and academic demands. While all are advanced degrees, they vary significantly in structure and length.

EdS Program Requirements and Duration

An EdS program is designed to be completed in less time than a doctoral degree, often requiring anywhere from about 28 to 36 credit hours beyond a master’s degree. Most programs can be completed in one to two years of part-time study, making it a flexible option for working professionals. EdS programs typically include advanced coursework in educational leadership, assessment, and policy but usually do not require a dissertation or original research project.

Doctoral Program Requirements and Duration (EdD and PhD)

Both EdD and PhD programs are more intensive, generally requiring 60 or more post-master’s credit hours. Completion typically takes three to five years for full-time students, and longer for part-time learners. Both degrees require a dissertation or capstone project, comprehensive exams, and often a residency or practicum. The EdD focuses on applied research and leadership practice, while the PhD involves original scholarly research and theoretical exploration.

Differences in Program Structure and Duration

While EdS programs are shorter and more practice-oriented, doctoral programs are longer and research-intensive. EdS students can complete their degrees more quickly and without a dissertation, while EdD and PhD students commit to several years of rigorous academic work, culminating in a research project or dissertation. This structural difference reflects the varying purposes of the degrees: the EdS for immediate professional advancement, and the doctorate for long-term academic or leadership impact.

The Investment: Cost and Tuition Considerations

When choosing between an EdS and a doctoral degree, understanding the financial implications is essential. From tuition rates to long-term earning potential, here’s what you need to know about the investment required for each path.

Understanding the Financial Commitment

Pursuing an advanced education is a significant financial decision. EdS programs generally cost less than doctoral programs because they require fewer credit hours and can be completed more quickly. Doctoral programs — whether EdD or PhD — often come with higher tuition and fees, along with added costs for dissertation research, residencies, and extended enrollment timeframes.

Return on Investment (ROI)

While EdS programs typically offer a quicker return due to their shorter duration and lower cost, doctoral degrees may yield higher long-term earnings, especially for individuals in executive leadership or academic roles. ROI depends on your chosen career path: For example, an EdD may lead to higher administrative salaries, while a PhD can open doors to grant-funded research and tenure-track university positions.

Factors Influencing Tuition Costs

Several factors impact the overall cost of your degree, including:

• Whether the program is offered by a public or private institution
• Availability of scholarships or assistantships
• Program length
• Delivery format (online, hybrid, or on-campus)

Additionally, some doctoral programs offer funding packages for PhD candidates, especially in research-focused institutions.

Typical Cost Ranges

The cost of an EdS program generally ranges from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the school and format. In contrast, EdD and PhD programs often fall between $40,000 and $100,000 or more, especially if pursued at a private institution or over an extended period. These figures can vary widely, so it’s important to research specific programs and consider both upfront and long-term financial impacts.

Mapping Your Future: Compare Career Paths

Each degree option prepares you for a distinct set of professional opportunities. Understanding the types of roles associated with the EdS, EdD, and PhD can help you choose the best path for your long-term career goals.

EdS Career Paths

The EdS degree is designed for educators seeking advanced training to move into leadership or specialist roles without pursuing a full doctorate. These roles typically require strong practical skills in leadership, assessment, and educational policy, all of which are emphasized in EdS programs. Common career paths include:

• School principals oversee school operations, manage staff, and ensure student success through strategic leadership.
• Curriculum coordinators design, evaluate, and implement instructional programs aligned with academic standards.
• School psychologists support students’ emotional and behavioral needs through assessment and intervention strategies.
• Special education directors lead special education programs, ensure legal compliance, and manage teams supporting students with disabilities.

Doctorate (EdD) Career Paths

An EdD is ideal for professionals aiming for top-tier leadership and administrative positions that influence educational systems and policy. EdD graduates are equipped to drive change through applied research and hands-on leadership. Career options include:

• Superintendents lead entire school districts, set strategic goals, manage budgets, and ensure academic standards are met.
• University administrators manage academic departments or student services at the postsecondary level, often in roles such as dean or director.
• Policy analysts evaluate and develop educational policies for school districts, nonprofits, or government agencies.
• Leadership consultants advise schools or organizations on best practices in leadership, organizational change, and professional development.

Doctorate (PhD) Career Path

PhD careers typically demand deep expertise in research methodology, theoretical analysis, and scholarly publication. The PhD in Education is focused on scholarly research and academic contributions, preparing graduates for highly specialized and research-intensive careers such as:

• University professors teach future educators, publish academic research, and often pursue tenure.
• Research scientists conduct studies to advance knowledge in educational theory, learning science, or instructional design.
• Policy researchers investigate educational challenges and evaluate policy initiatives to inform systemic improvements.
• Academic deans oversee academic affairs within colleges or universities, shaping curriculum and faculty development.

Pursue Your Path Toward Becoming an Administrator

Already hold a master’s degree in education and ready to take the next step? At Lindenwood University, we offer a 100% online Educational Specialist in School Administration as a path to initial principal certification. To learn more about how to become a leader in the education space, request more information today.