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Earn an Affordable EdD Degree Online1 From GCU
Focus on administrative and leadership roles with an education doctorate from Grand Canyon University.
Online Degree Programs
Grand Canyon University
GCU is a private Christian university. We are dedicated to helping our students change their lives through education. Our knowledgeable faculty and staff will be with you every step of the way to help you reach your goals.
Competitive, affordable tuition rate so that furthering education is within reach for all2
Over 92,000 Fall 2023 online students3
GCU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968
Over 287,000 alumni4
Pursue a Doctorate in Education at GCU
Build and sustain ever-changing organizations, and help them and their people succeed with Grand Canyon University's online EdD programs. GCU’s Doctor of Education programs are embedded with research skills development throughout the curriculum. As a learner in one of our online doctoral programs, you have the opportunity to work on content expertise, with specially inserted dissertation milestones.
Why Earn Your EdD at GCU?
Grand Canyon University's College of Doctoral Studies seeks to engage learners in the process of becoming scholar-practitioners by deliberately invoking design principles that create, scaffold and embed curriculum grounded in adult learning theory. The College of Doctoral Studies provides structured, integrative, learning-centered doctoral programs which encourage reflective thinking from learners and collaborative interactions among learners and faculty.
Which EdD Program Is Right for You?
If you are interested in applying your research skills to help develop new ideas and ways to improve an organization, you should consider applying to a doctoral program in education. A doctorate in organizational leadership is designed to prepare future educators, school administrators, government officials, nonprofit leaders and other professionals for leadership roles within their schools and facilities. GCU's EdD degrees to consider include:
What Are the Benefits of an EdD Degree?
There are many benefits for EdD degree holders. Employers seek out prospective employees who have completed a doctoral program, acquiring more advanced skills and knowledge. Graduates of an EdD program can pursue more advanced administrative or leadership positions and can position themselves to contribute to more strategic roles in schools or other organizations. In addition, students often reap personal satisfaction from the major accomplishment of earning a doctorate.
What Is the Difference Between an EdD and a PhD?
Universities often offer two-degree programs for professionals in various fields such as education, leadership, or change management – Doctor of Education (EdD) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Students working toward an EdD focus primarily on exploring practical applications of existing theoretical knowledge rather than on creating new theories. The EdD is ideal for those who wish to teach in K-12 schools or become administrators at any level, including at institutes of higher education. Professionals with EdDs can also be found in non-profits or in government roles, as the program prepares graduates for practical application to critical issues in a wide range of workplaces.
Online1 Degrees at GCU
Our online courses offer a curriculum developed so that you receive an education to help you position yourself for possible career advancement. Backed by the legacy of our traditional campus, GCU is an accredited university with dynamic academic programs, informed by industry and student learning outcomes.
Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research in EdD Programs
Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research Studies in EdD Programs
Earn an Affordable EdD Degree Online1 From GCU
Online Degree Programs
EdD in Organizational Leadership: K-12 Leadership
Qualitative or Quantitative Research
With the online K-12 program, you can learn the principles of leading teachers, fiscal management strategies and the structure of contemporary K-12 educational systems.
EdD in Organizational Leadership: Special Education
Qualitative or Quantitative Research
Become a strategic education professional, a leader in special education or special education consultant with the EdD degree with an emphasis in special education.
EdD in Organizational Leadership: Higher Education Leadership
Qualitative or Quantitative Research
Reflect critically on existing leadership theory, while focusing on the history, structure and governance of modern post-secondary institutions, with the EdD degree in higher education.
EdD in Teaching and Learning: Adult Learning
Qualitative or Quantitative Research
Earn an online EdD in adult teaching and learning, and help fellow educators reach their academic goals by becoming a effective instructor in master’s and doctoral programs.
EdD in Organizational Leadership: Organizational Development
Qualitative or Quantitative Research
Learn the leadership skills necessary to transform an organization for optimal growth with the EdD online with an emphasis in organizational development.
EdD in Organizational Leadership: Health Care Administration
Qualitative or Quantitative Research
In addition to gaining leadership skills, the EdD online healthcare administration program focuses on issues facing the healthcare industry, including regulation topics.
EdD in Organizational Leadership: Behavioral Health
Qualitative or Quantitative Research
Focus on leadership and planning, with an emphasis on leadership in behavioral health settings and intervention methods, with the EdD online in behavioral health.
EdD in Organizational Leadership: Christian Ministry
Qualitative or Quantitative Research
For church leaders seeking to gain a deeper understanding in leadership principles, this online EdD degree in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in Christian Ministry focuses on leadership theory with an emphasis on biblical stewardship.
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1 While all courses are completed online, you will need to attend residencies in person locally.
2 Based on the 2021-22 academic year, GCU’s private Christian tuition is 47% more affordable than the average out-of-state tuition of Arizona’s three state universities.
3 Includes students who have participated in an online class in August or September 2023 and does not include students in a cohort program.
4Alumni from 1957 to March 21, 2024. Includes students who have graduated or completed their program. Data represents degree-seeking graduates only. This does not include students in Bridge Programs, Certificate Programs, Post-Masters, Education Specialist Programs, High School Dual, Non-Degree Studies or Continuing Education.
"I was really happy I chose to earn my degree from GCU, and what I really liked about the College of Doctoral Studies was that I felt like it was geared toward professionals, not just the traditional college-aged student."
Keziah Tinkle-Williams
GCU Alum
Focus on administrative and leadership roles with an education doctorate from Grand Canyon University.
Grand Canyon University's online1 programs offer flexibility, providing a quality education to help you navigate today's complex world.
Elevate Your Expertise With Online Advanced Graduate Certificates
GCU's advanced graduate certificates provide targeted knowledge in specific fields. These shorter programs can be completed faster than a traditional degree, with flexible online options and industry-focused courses. Whether updating skills or exploring a new specialty, GCU has the right program for you while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Graduates of these certificate programs who want to further explore complex theories can transfer the credits directly into one of GCU's relevant doctoral programs.
Advanced Graduate Certificate in
Innovation and Corporate Entrepreneurship
This certificate provides instruction that focuses on innovation, optimizing organizational structures, and prototyping an innovation, product or process.
ONLINE
Advanced Graduate Certificate in
Leadership
Developed for existing managers and executives, you will be taught skills in strategic planning and change management, navigating complex ethical situations and managing aspects of leading global and diverse workforces.
ONLINE
Advanced Graduate Certificate in
Performance Psychology
Designed for professionals in psychology, counseling, coaching, business, and related fields, offering advanced instruction in psychology theories and concepts to enhance human performance.
ONLINE