Our list shows the most affordable doctoral programs in education for you to choose from. This graduate degree is designed to deepen your expertise in educational theories, research methodologies, and innovative practices to empower you to contribute to the improvement of educational systems and outcomes.
Key Insights:
- The first 12 schools we list have tuitions below $10,000.
- Sam Houston State University leads the ranking with the lowest tuition for its Doctor of Education in Instructional Systems Design and Technology program at $4,804. It's also in the 100th percentile nationally for affordability.
- The University of Southern California has the best student retention rate on our list of 97% and an average financial aid package of $45,262, reflecting its commitment to student success and support.
To be eligible for our list of most affordable education doctorate programs online, we require that a school has institutional accreditation and fully online degrees based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Colleges are then ranked based on the manually researched tuition rates. For more information on our process, visit our methodology page.
2025 Most Affordable Online Doctorates in Education
| Rank | School | Locations | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville (TX) | $4,804 | |
| California Coast University | Santa Ana (CA) | $5,280 | |
| Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary | Kansas City (MO) | $7,126 | |
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro (AR) | $8,208 | |
| University of Mississippi | Oxford (MS) | $8,224 | |
| Delta State University | Cleveland (MS) | $8,435 | |
| University of South Carolina - Columbia | Columbia (SC) | $8,584 | |
| University of Wyoming | Laramie (WY) | $8,742 | |
| National University | La Jolla (CA) | $8,840 | |
| Old Dominion University | Norfolk (VA) | $9,345 | |
| University of West Georgia | Carrollton (GA) | $9,360 | |
| University of Southern Mississippi | Hattiesburg (MS) | $9,618 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $10,710 | |
| Youngstown State University | Youngstown (OH) | $10,749 | |
| Southern Wesleyan University | Central (SC) | $11,160 | |
| Concordia University - Chicago | River Forest (IL) | $11,209 | |
| Grambling State University | Grambling (LA) | $11,783 | |
| University of the Southwest | Hobbs (NM) | $11,985 | |
| South College | Multiple Locations | $12,000 | |
| University of West Alabama | Livingston (AL) | $12,600 | |
| Touro University Nevada | Henderson (NV) | $13,400 | |
| Winona State University | Winona (MN) | $14,081 | |
| Gratz College | Melrose Park (PA) | $14,624 | |
| Andrews University | Berrien Springs (MI) | $14,955 | |
| Purdue Global | Indianapolis (IN) | $15,120 | |
| Maryville University | St. Louis (MO) | $17,046 | |
| Columbus State University | Columbus (GA) | $17,719 | |
| Rockhurst University | Kansas City (MO) | $18,000 | |
| Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online | Multiple Locations | $25,545 | |
| University of Southern California | Los Angeles (CA) | $32,164 |
Overview of Online EdD Programs
Unlike a PhD in Education that focuses on theory and research, an EdD program concentrates on preparing professionals to devise practical solutions in education. Many programs feature areas of specialization so students can explore the issues that most interest them, such as curriculum and instruction, social justice, or higher education administration. In some programs, newly enrolled doctoral candidates join a small cohort of like-minded education professionals and are encouraged to solve problems through a collaborative, team-based approach.
EdD programs typically require the completion of 42-60 credits. Most online degree programs are structured into three years of part-time study to accommodate the time constraints of working adults. The first two years are often designated for program coursework, leaving the final year for the dissertation or culminating project. However, those looking for the shortest Ed.D. programs may be interested in accelerated online doctoral programs, which are meant to be completed in two years of full-time study. The curriculum for an Ed.D. program may include advanced online courses in educational leadership, creativity, psychology, and instructional design, as well as research methods and data analysis. Graduation requirements may include one or more on-campus residencies, an internship, and successful completion of the final exam.
The curriculum for an EdD program may include advanced online courses in educational leadership, creativity, psychology, and instructional design, as well as research methods and data analysis.
The admissions criteria vary somewhat across EdD programs. In general, applicants must have a master's degree in education or a related field as well as multiple years of work experience as a teacher or administrator. Prospective doctoral candidates are usually asked to submit an application, academic transcripts meeting a minimum GPA requirement, a personal goal statement, a resume, letters of recommendation, and a copy of their teaching credential. Schools may also ask for GRE scores, although a growing number of programs are omitting this requirement. In some cases, students may need to complete one or more prerequisite courses before enrollment in their program.
Interested in learning about other popular doctoral programs? Explore the 25 most affordable schools for online doctoral degrees. We also have a list of the most affordable online MEd programs if you want to explore another avenue.
How Much Does an EdD Program Cost?
Earning a doctorate can be expensive, but enrolling in a distance learning program may reduce the cost. The annual tuition for the online EdD programs on our list are all below $25,550, with the cheapest online EdD programs coming in at an impressive $4,804 a year. And all of these programs are from accredited online schools, so rest assured the quality of education is high. This is a significant savings when compared to the average cost of an EdD, which is approximately $62,780.
A distance education program may be a more affordable option because many schools offer lower tuition rates for online students, even non-resident online students . Some schools also waive the additional fees for on-campus services, although distance learners may have to pay technology fees. Doctoral candidates may be able to save in other ways as well. Some may qualify for employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs or various types of financial aid.
Are There Fully Funded Online EdD Programs?
Unless an online Ed.D. student lives close enough to work on campus, they are probably ineligible for a fully funded EdD program. A fully funded doctoral program also includes other forms of compensation from the school, such as a combination of tuition, stipends, and health insurance. In exchange for this financial support, doctoral candidates are usually required to work full or part-time on campus as research or teaching assistants.
Financial Aid for Online EdD Degree Programs
EdD candidates may be eligible for financial aid, such as federal, state, and college grants and scholarships, which don't have to be repaid. Candidates may also consider taking out student loans, but they should thoroughly review a loan’s terms beforehand. Private loans often stipulate higher interest rates and stricter repayment plans than federal and state student loans. To apply for financial aid, candidates should begin by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Representatives from a school's financial aid office are available to answer any questions about aid.
In addition to applying for school-sponsored scholarships and grants that are geared toward graduate students, doctoral candidates may be eligible for privately sponsored scholarships through professional and community service organizations.
For college affordability tips, students can check out our financial planning resources about how to pay for your college degree.
Accreditation for Online EdD Programs
Accreditation is one of the most important factors prospective doctoral candidates should review before applying to any program. To obtain accreditation, colleges and universities must meet established quality standards for their academic programs, faculty, student services, and other resources, which lends to their credibility. Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited program to qualify for federal financial aid, and a degree from an accredited school may be required for state licensure.
Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited program to qualify for federal financial aid, and a degree from an accredited school may be required for state licensure.
In addition to earning accreditation for the entire institution, schools can also seek accreditation for individual degree programs. The approved accrediting agency for EdD programs is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, which encourages schools to conduct ongoing evidence-based analyses of their programs. Programmatic accreditation assures that the curriculum design reflects the most current theories and practices. Some programs may also be members of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate, where participating schools collaborate to enhance and improve the quality of their EdD programs.
EXPERT TIP
The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation both provide searchable databases of recognized schools and accrediting agencies.
What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Education?
Graduates of online EdD programs can choose to follow a number of different career paths. Some aim for high-level school administration positions in K-12 education, while others opt for teaching or administrative roles in college education. A few move into the business sector, lending their instructional expertise to organizations with strong professional development programs.
Some of the occupations below only require a master's degree for entry-level positions, but a doctoral degree may make job candidates more attractive because of their advanced education and leadership training.
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals
Elementary, middle, and high school principals perform an array of managerial functions, including planning activities and schedules, managing teachers, monitoring finances, interacting with parents and students, and preparing reports to the school district. Principals usually need multiple years of teaching experience and are often required to obtain state-issued licenses to work in public schools.
Postsecondary Teachers
Postsecondary teachers create lesson plans, provide information to students, and assess students' progress as part of their college-level instructional responsibilities. They may also have administrative duties, conduct research, and write scholarly works.
Postsecondary Education Administrator
Postsecondary education administrator is a title that can refer to academic deans, provosts, registrars, and other high-level education professionals who oversee the operation of academic, student service, and research departments at colleges and universities. Deans and provosts typically need a doctoral degree along with years of administrative experience to qualify for these positions.
College Presidents or Chancellors
College presidents or chancellors oversee the operation of an entire school as chief executive officers. They set policies and procedures, form strategic alliances and partnerships, finalize the budget, participate in managing the faculty and other staff, and report to the school's board of directors. Many schools require candidates to have at least 10 years of administrative experience.
Instructional Coordinators
Instructional coordinators develop and implement school curricula, ensuring that programs meet local, state, and federal regulations. They also work closely with teachers to provide additional support and make recommendations on teaching materials and techniques. In some states' public schools, instructional coordinators may be required to have a teaching license.
Is an Online Doctorate in Education Worth The Cost?
Earning a doctorate in education means investing more time, money, and effort beyond what you've already devoted to earning your bachelor's and master's degrees. Most likely, you have personal circumstances, such as financial and family obligations, that need to be factored in as well. You must decide whether an online doctoral degree in education will help you fulfill your goals, but the following pros and cons may help you make that choice:
Potential Benefits
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A doctoral degree may lead to a higher salary. Several high-level occupations in education do not require an EdD, but you might earn more if you have one. The BLS reports that the median weekly salary for master's degree holders is $1,497, while the median for doctoral degree holders is $1,883, a difference of 20%.
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Online education allows you to choose the best program for your needs. By considering an affordable online EdD program, like those listed above, you can choose from a wider selection of offerings with different concentrations, formats, and graduation requirements. You can enroll in the program that best fits your career goals and budget without having to change jobs or relocate.
Potential Drawbacks
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Some occupations in the education field may require you to work unusual hours. If you decide to become a K-12 principal, college teacher, or some other type of administrator, you may need to work some evenings and weekends to accommodate your students' schedules or attend school events.
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Online programs require self-discipline. Because of the relatively unstructured nature of online programs, you'll have to create your own schedule for your coursework and manage your time effectively.
In conclusion, determining whether an online doctorate in education is worth the cost depends on various factors. Our list showcases many affordable options, such as Sam Houston State University's program at $4,804 annually. While higher-priced programs like the University of Southern California, at $32,164, offer exceptional support and a 97% retention rate, the value lies in what you seek from a degree. If you aim to enhance your expertise, improve research skills, and implement innovative educational practices, the investment can lead to significant professional and personal growth. The flexibility and accreditation of these programs further add to their worth, making them a viable option for dedicated educators.
Student Reviews of Online Education Programs
Most of the instructors are great! A few, however, are terrible. When you get a bad professor, the school backs the professor and not the student. One bad apple ruins the whole barrel. I would not recommend the college because they do not monitor their bad professors, and it becomes a waste of your time. There are better schools.
Review Date: 10/9/2020
Would Recommend: No
I began the Ed.D. program January 2018. Prior to beginning the process and being accepted, I received nothing but the utmost support and attention. The work is challenging yet manageable. Expectations of the program and from the professors has been explicit and known since the beginning. Anytime that I need to contact the school regarding financial aid, changing of specialization, dropping a course, etc. I have been met with prompt assistance and support. I look forward to continuing in the program... Read More
Review Date: 6/4/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
I am currently completing my doctorate in Education with Liberty. I've attended 2 other large, highly touted universities and frankly I think that Liberty is as good or better than anything else I am aware of. My experience at every level of the process has been positive. I did not read the reviews prior to enrollment and now that I have I can't help but wonder where the fault lies; with the student or with the school. I've experienced none of the negative behavior I saw in the comments. I also noticed... Read More
Review Date: 11/24/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
The professors at Northcentral University really care about your academic success. They will mold you into the person you desire to become. There are no handouts. You must be okay with constructive criticism. If you cannot handle constructive criticism, this is not the university for you. Trust that you will not be given a degree, you will work hard to attain your doctoral degree. Northcentral University has some of the best people working together to ensure your success. However, you as a person... Read More
Review Date: 9/28/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
ACE is a good school, especially if you put in the effort to learn. It tries to balance value for the student with low cost. Most assignments provide the ability to learn something relevant in a low stress environment. I've only had 1 bad instructor, most range from helpful to very helpful. I have offered feedback on several occasions and have felt listened too, which speaks to a student-centric climate. The doctoral program has been reorganized, it sounds like for the better but it is too early... Read More
Review Date: 3/19/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Northcentral University provides rigorous curricula delivered by scholars who are experts in their fields. Programs are well designed with professors establishing high standards of performance for students. NCU degrees are earned not given. Therefore, when the degree is conferred, it actually holds merit, and the recipient can be proud in knowing that their hard work in conjunction with guidance from true scholars got them to the finishline. I've attended courses and/or online programs at four universities...... Read More
Review Date: 4/15/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Doing my doctoral degree at Walden University was a great experience. The quality of instruction was first class even though I did not realize it until I graduated and began helping my peers who were working on their doctoral dissertations and Masters' research. Being a Walden graduate also opened doors of opportunities that I never anticipated, such as presenting at international conferences and getting lucrative job offers. I'm glad I chose Walden over the various other universities that I reviewed... Read More
Review Date: 8/5/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
The completion of my doctoral degree at Walden was a huge learning curve for me. I did not expect such a comprehensive package of courses. They were relevant to my specific area of study and scaffolded the research process. By the end of the doctoral journey, my competence was not limited to one research method but I graduated with expertise in all. The high quality and commitment of the instructors was exceptional. As an international student, the prompt and detailed feedback from my committee was... Read More
Review Date: 8/11/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I recently graduated with my doctorate in education in curriculum and instruction. First, I am a female minority and not religious. Although this institution has its notorious controversies, I owe it to the faculty to write this review. I was extremely apprehensive about attending Liberty due to its views, but I want to remind you that I am a woman of color navigating a system that was not intended for me and I don’t have the same choices of schools at the doctoral level that others have. I refuse... Read More
Review Date: 11/28/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
At first I was really intimidated by the lack of direction when it came to figuring out the system but once I had that, I was good to go. good instructors, good classwork and knowledge base, very few complaints. It is not easy, but if you keep at it, anything is possible. Some people are not suited to totally online studies, and I assume that is where the negative complaints come from. I, however, love the format and find it stimulating and refreshing to have this much freedom to do well. If you... Read More
Review Date: 2/16/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Northcentral University offers such a wide range of programs that most of the students pursuing a degree might be able to find the right one that matches his or her interest. The system is structured in a way that allows students to continue with their activities while achieving their goals. Moreover, the starting point is whenever the student is ready. The university promotes discipline and commitment within their community through the different resources offered like the Commons and Academic Success... Read More
Review Date: 3/20/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
The Doctor of Education online program is rigorous and many of my colleagues consider it to be one of the most challenging and rewarding educational experiences of their lives. You will bond with your cohort and the required residency on the St. Louis campus is productive, rewarding, and fun. Highly recommended. Great experience and worth the money and time.
Review Date: 1/21/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
I highly recommend ACE to my friends and family because I had an excellent experience. I completed my Ed.D. in Educational Leadership in under three years by taking extra classes. The dissertation writing process was smooth and there was support every step of the way which I greatly appreciated. My dissertation chair, Dr. Evans, was absolutely amazing! She was always available to answer questions and reassured me that WE would complete this degree. The rest of the staff at ACE were always friendly... Read More
Review Date: 6/9/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I'm not sure if many people get that ALL universities are FOR PROFIT now... even if they don't say that, and many people pay a lot of money for colleges and still get treated like crap. I was at UVA... it cost $40K a year and most of the the professors never had time for you. I had a STAT's 2 teacher who couldn't speak English clearly and no one in the department would help me. I had an advisor who was nuts - even got arrested for grand larceny, but he's still there. So please don't think that in-person... Read More
Review Date: 3/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
The Ed.D. program is incredibly organized and all assignments are relevant and interesting. The faculty members are quick to respond to question, and they are incredibly helpful in providing assistance when needed. Everything is well organized, and I am impressed with the professionalism of all staff and faculty. Faculty members take their time to make sure that you are effectively learning the curriculum. The program is also affordable, and you pay as you go.
Review Date: 9/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
The reputation of this school is evident in the awesome caliber of students I have encountered in just the first semester of attending. The courses are challenging and you are expected to accomplish much with very little initial feedback so your self-confidence needs to be high. We have a great social network for emotional and academic support that is invaluable. Great institution, even better students!
Review Date: 10/23/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
This school has been excellent. The professors are very responsive, and the learning material is rigorous. The Ed.D program is well laid out and the assignments and expectations are clear. The application and enrollment process are streamlined, and the person who helped me was accessible by email and phone throughout the day. I am thankful for a University that does not have any "surprises" or curve balls!
Review Date: 12/20/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Having earned both my Bachelor and Master's Degree from different reputable brick and mortar schools, I was not really interested in online degrees. However, when a friend told me about American College of Education doctoral degree programs, I realized that ACE offered what I was looking for in leadership and in education. The content of my courses was current and relevant to my work as an educator and could be infused in my everyday practice. The work at ACE is not cakewalk, so working and studying... Read More
Review Date: 5/5/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I enrolled in this program and stopped during the first course. The quality of instruction and engagement was amazing and very high-level. But, this program tried to cram way too many requirements and components into the degree - which is supposed to be manageable for working professionals. If I didn't work full-time, I would love this program. Unfortunately, too much busy work like peer grading, reflective projects, and career portfolios that take time away from the true coursework was just too... Read More
Review Date: 7/30/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I love this school. The program is intense and educative! When I was researching online programs, Walden is the name that kept coming up. They have been around since the 1970's and were the first teacher education school for currently employed educators. The program is rigorous and upholds expectations of excellence. For students who have not previously attended online school, this may not be the right choice.
Review Date: 6/17/2015
Would Recommend: Yes