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Considering a PhD in Education? Here’s What You Need to Know

can i do phd in education without m ed

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: December 17, 2018

Considering-a-PhD-in-Education-Here’s-What-You-Need-to-Know

For anyone looking to pursue a career in education in academia or research, a Ph.D. in education is the degree to seek. A doctorate degree in education is a terminal degree in the field, which means it is the highest level degree you can get. So the natural next question is, “What can you do with a Ph.D. in education?

Here, we will share Ph.D. in education jobs, as well as answer all your big questions surrounding a doctorate degree in education.

can i do phd in education without m ed

What is a Ph.D. in education?

A doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in education is a graduate degree that is well-suited for anyone who wants to focus their career on academics or research. Just like a Ph.D. in education is a terminal degree, so is a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree.

Although it can be confusing when faced with two terminal degrees in the same field, it helps to clarify when we understand what each of their focus is. An EdD in education is more hands-on and practice-oriented, which means that it’s of use to those who want to work in education, for the government, or in a non-profit organization.

A Ph.D. in education is theoretically-focused and more study-based, in comparison. For this reason, it’s best for anyone looking to work in research or academia at the university level.

There are more differences between the two, including:

  • A Ph.D. in education takes four years to complete, while an EdD takes two.
  • A Ph.D. requires doing a dissertation, while an EdD doesn’t.
  • A Ph.D. focuses on developing new research. EdD students, on the other hand, use existing research to guide decisions about issues within their area of study.
  • A Ph.D. requires taking 90 credits, whereas an EdD requires 60.

Why Earn a Ph.D. in Education?

There are many reasons why a Ph.D. in education is valuable and worthy of your effort. Here’s why:

1. It’s one of the most highly respected credentials in education, and as mentioned, it is a terminal degree (which means its the highest level that you can achieve in this field).

2. You’ll use research-based methods to solve problems and identify gaps in your specialization of choice.

Plus, you will have the expertise and credentials to publish in professional journals and/or present your findings at conferences around the world.

3. You’ll be advancing in an area of education in which you’re passionate.

Are you fascinated by childhood development? Or do you have a passion for classroom management? If you have a desire to advance a particular field in education, a Ph.D. is an excellent way to do so.

4. You’ll earn respect in your field and gain personal satisfaction.

Since a Ph.D. in education requires doing a dissertation, that alone is not an easy feat! Accomplishing it will surely give you a rewarding feeling. Plus, being called Doctor isn’t so bad either. Just like any degree, a Ph.D. in education involves a certain skill set . Some learned along the way, and some you may have naturally. These are some skills involved in a Ph.D. in education:

Technical skills:

Analysis and problem-solving, project management and organization, research and information management, and written and oral communication are all important in such a research-based degree.

Soft skills:

Interpersonal and leadership skills, self-management and work habits, concentration, and patience are all important personal skills to have when you’re spending lots of time on one specific topic.

The Doctorate in Education Salaries You Can Expect

Did you know that in America, Ph.D. graduates will earn $1.3 million more than BA holders in their working lifetimes? There are all kinds of career options for Ph.D. education graduates.

Here are some examples of typical careers for Ph.D. in education holders, as well as their average salaries in the US:

  • Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists: $79,820
  • Education Teachers, Postsecondary: $80,56 0
  • Survey Researchers: $59,870 
  • Sociologists: $86,110
  • Training and Development Specialists: $62,700

Many PhD in education graduates want to become professors. Here’s what the average annual salaries look like around the globe for professors in the top-paying countries (in their equivalent USD):

Denmark: $109,600

Switzerland: $185,000

UK: $110,000

US: $102,400

Finland: $95,000

Canada: $93,000

Germany:$92,000

France: $82,000

There are other career options as well, such as school administrator, superintendent, curriculum coordinator, and principal.

can i do phd in education without m ed

What are the Requirements?

Considering that a Ph.D. in education is the highest level you can achieve in education, it means that you will already have a bachelor’s under your belt, and in most cases, a master’s degree, as well. In other words, you probably like being a student. There are lots of years of studying that get dedicated to earning a Ph.D. If you plan on doing a doctorate in education, earning a master’s degree in education can be the right first step.

Another important thing to know is that almost all Ph.D. candidates have background experience in research. So if education is your field of interest, getting a Ph.D. will mean coming to the table with previous research experience from your undergraduate (and potentially graduate) degrees.

Every institution may differ on their prerequisites for enrolling in their Ph.D. in education program. Be sure to consult directly with your school of choice to find out what they are.

Where Can I Earn My Ph.D. in Education?

There are many schools that offer Ph.D. in education programs. Just like most subjects, there are going to be online /on-campus options as well as throughout the world. Some are even fully funded.

Online programs

University of the People has a Master’s in Education (M.Ed) degree. This could be a great choice for those of you who may be aiming for a Ph.D. in education but only have a BA. The next step is getting that MA. So, why not choose a tuition-free program ?

Liberty University, Walden University, University of Colorado, and the University of Nebraska are just a few popular universities that offer a Ph.D. in Education. Here’s a look at some of the most affordable online Ph.D. programs.

Studying in Europe

Studying in Europe can be both exciting and low-cost . Germany, Sweden, Norway, and Finland offer free doctorate tuition for university students, regardless of their nationality! France offers low-cost Ph.D. tuition fees. If you want to see some specific schools in these countries, look at this list.

Fully-funded Programs

Fully-funded sounds wonderful, and it is! But, it doesn’t mean there are no costs associated. Fully-funded actually means that your tuition is covered, but you’ll still have to cover costs for textbooks and supplies, living expenses, and other fees.  no cost. That said, it’s still an awesome option. One condition: it has to be on campus. Why? Because you need to pay with your time — by teaching and performing research.

University of Michigan School of Education, Vanderbilt Peabody College, and Steinhardt School at NYU all offer tuition-free on-campus Ph.D. in education programs.

Online vs On-campus

You might be wondering what it’s like to get your Ph.D. online, as compared to on-campus institutions. Like all degrees, there are advantages and disadvantages to earning your degree entirely online. In regards to a Ph.D. in education, you will need to consider a few things.

Online Ph.D. programs are best suited to students who work better solo. They are also great for those who have worked in the field for some time and want to advance in their area of study. And, of course, it’s the best option for those who work and are raising families. On the other hand, you aren’t in the presence of peers and professors that can be a valuable resource in the research-driven program of a Ph.D.

Earning a Ph.D. on-campus has its pros and cons, too.. While they’re generally more expensive than online programs, on-campus Ph.D. programs allow you to communicate face-to-face with your professors, supervisors, and other students.

What You Can Expect to Study in a Ph.D. in Education

Completing a Ph.D. means doing your dissertation, or research thesis. Naturally, it is going to be based on the field of study that you are most interested in. You can specialize in a certain area. Some common specialization options for a Ph.D. in education are:

  • Early Childhood Education
  • Special Education
  • Adult Education
  • Teacher Leadership
  • Curriculum and Pedagogy
  • Educational Psychology

Aside from the research involved in planning and executing your thesis, you will also have professional development activities and coursework relevant to your area of study. They’re designed to help give you the skills needed to succeed in your research and your future career in education.

While the curriculum is going to vary according to your specialization, there are some general core courses that most PhDs in education involve. You will likely take the following: group psychology, leadership, learning models, ethics, education and globalization, and analytics courses as part of your curriculum.

Is a Ph.D. in Education for Me?

If you choose to study for a Ph.D. in education, chances are you’re passionate about teaching and learning, and everything in between. Even if you’re not looking to stand in front of a lecture hall and teach, you may wish to improve upon the field of education as a whole through research and other means. With a Ph.D. in Education, you open the door to that possibility and many more.

How you choose to earn your degree is up to you. Whether you conclude upon enrolling online or on-campus, prepare yourself for lots of reading, writing, researching, and communicating. Whatever you chose, we’re sure you’ll give it your best shot. Here’s to reaching the top in the field of education!

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Ph.D in Education without a M.Ed?

I'm looking into applying for my PhD (or even EdD) because my goal is to teach at the university/college level. I have BA honours in Law and Politics, am finishing my B.Ed at the P/J level in April, and have a Master's in Politics. I'd like to get my Ph.D in Educational Policy so I was wondering if having a Master's degree (and a B.Ed) would be enough to apply for Ph.D programs since it's in a "relevant field", or if I would need to get my M.Ed first. Additionally, one of my current profs advised me to look into PhD program and she said that she would write me a recommendation letter if I follow through with applying (!!)

If anyone has gotten to the Ph.D level without a M.Ed, I'd love to hear about your background!

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PhD vs. EdD in Education: Nine expert tips to help you choose [with infographic]

A professional woman sits at her desk in a brightly lit office. She is an educational leader, and represents the kind of person who has a PhD or EdD in education.

If you want to elevate your career in education, an advanced degree can open the door to more job opportunities. Many schools offer graduate programs in education, but before you go down a rabbit hole of research, first decide if you want to get a PhD or EdD degree.

A PhD and EdD in education are both doctoral degrees. The one you choose will have a significant impact on your graduate school experience, and your career as well. (Already know what you want? Visit our Admission and Deadlines and Requirements pages for more information.)

For a quick overview of differences between the two degrees, view the infographic below or download it here .

infographic

Before we explore tips to guide your decision, let’s review important context for each degree.

What is a PhD in Education?

A PhD is a doctorate in philosophy. Historically, it was the first degree offered to students in the field of education and is perhaps more well-known than the EdD.

The PhD in Education is ideal for students who are excited by a career in research. Programs train you to interpret existing theory on a subject, identify opportunities for exploration, and advance theory through critical analysis. It is not necessarily a degree that prepares you for an administrative or leadership role.

With a PhD in Education, you will become an authority on a particular topic or range of topics, and make recommendations on how practitioners should approach or implement them. Examples of research topics might include teaching practices, the effect of learning environments on student outcomes, and inequity in education.

What is an EdD in Education?

An EdD is a doctorate in education, and prepares you for a career in educational leadership. Like the PhD degree, you will learn to interpret research. However, EdD programs train you to apply the research in real-world settings.

While pursuing your EdD degree, you will study critical theory and determine how you can implement it to drive change in K–12 classrooms, universities, community colleges and other organizations. You will also reflect on your role as a leader. Top EdD programs encourage you to analyze your relationship to your research topics and work environments. The goal is to ensure that your leadership is fair and equitable for all people.

PhD vs. EdD: What are the main differences?

The table below summarizes the key differences between a PhD and EdD in education:

  PhD Degree EdD Degree
Career path Education and research Professional leadership
Coursework
Time commitment

(in some cases, tuition is covered by graduate assistantship)

Dissertation Yes Yes, or dissertation in practice
Online modality Offered by select schools Offered by several schools

Find your program

PhD vs. EdD: How to choose

To help you figure out which doctorate in education is right for you, check out these nine helpful tips:

1. Follow your passion

Rather than focusing on the title of the degree, think about what motivates you. Why did you get into education in the first place? Do you want to have a direct impact on classrooms or pursue big-picture change behind the scenes? You may assume that one degree is more prestigious than another, but it’s important to choose a path that will bring you personal satisfaction that is consistent with your career goals.

2. Picture your day-to-day

PhD and EdD programs are a significant time investment. If you’re struggling to decide because both degrees sound rewarding, try picturing what your daily life might look like in each program.

A PhD in Education is decidedly more research-heavy. A majority of your study will include—but is not limited to—investigating theory and research methodologies. By contrast, EdD programs include the application of your research. Much of your time will be spent using your knowledge to solve professional challenges.

3. Explore career options with a PhD in Education

Earning your PhD in education will make you a more desirable candidate for a range of research-oriented positions. Your ability to evaluate research and make recommendations will be a valuable skill to many organizations.

Many people with PhD in education degrees secure jobs as:

  • University professor
  • Research scholar
  • Education director
  • Policy researcher

Want specific examples? For a list of positions held by recent graduates from USC Rossier’s PhD in Urban Education program (PhD), check out our Benefits and Career Paths page.

4. Explore career options with an EdD in Education

EdD programs prepare you for different kinds of senior positions. You will be eligible for leadership roles primarily in education administration, however your high-level skill-set will be desirable to certain nonprofits and businesses as well.

Position titles for professionals with an EdD degree may include:

  • Superintendent
  • University or college president
  • Director of a research center
  • Development manager
  • Curriculum developer

5. Compare PhD vs. EdD coursework

Doctor in education programs are rigorous and challenging, and while both are rooted in research, their paths diverge. Coursework in PhD programs highlights qualitative and quantitative research methods, and gives you the tools needed to perform your own research. You will also work on your dissertation, and be required to take oral and written exams.

Additionally, PhD students typically have the chance to work one-on-one with a research faculty member on their research. As you narrow your search for a graduate school, remember to review faculty and consider opportunities for collaboration.

EdD courses in educational leadership train you to view common problems in education from multiple perspectives. Courses early in the program urge you to use research as a tool that can provide practical solutions that promote equity. As you progress, you will then take actionable steps to address a problem of practice.

6. Review PhD vs. EdD specializations at different schools

You want to choose a university that aligns with your personal interests. Start by reviewing schools’ mission statements. Do they seem principle-driven or focused on ushering you through the program?  You also want to check out the concentrations offered by each program. Select a program that is going to let you explore issues and challenges that matter to you.

Concentrations vary by university. For example, some concentrations may include educational leadership in K–12 schools, educational psychology or higher education. Expect universities located in or near cities to offer concentrations exploring urban education settings as well.

7. Consider PhD and EdD online programs

If you’re a working professional and don’t want to commute to a physical campus while you earn a degree, an online doctor of education program may be right for you. Online programs cover the same information as their in-person counterparts, but offer a little more flexibility for students.

However, classes such as those included in USC Rossier’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership online program are held live, meaning you are required to attend the online class at a specific day and time.Note: It may be easier to find online options for EdD than PhD programs.

8. Research PhD vs. EdD dissertation requirements

A traditional part of a PhD in education is the dissertation. Dissertation requirements vary by program and school, but generally include thorough investigation of a topic from multiple angles, copious research, and an exam to defend your written work once it’s completed.

By contrast, some EdD programs require you to complete a dissertation in practice. Using research methods learned in the program, you will attempt to resolve a problem in education dealing with equity and access. You may also have the chance to work alongside a group of students and an advisor to tackle the problem. In addition to the different requirements of PhD and EdD dissertations, individual schools may want you to explore issues that fall within their philosophical focus.

9. Estimate your time commitment

Before committing to a doctorate in education program, make sure you understand how much time it will take. A PhD in Education typically requires four to six years to complete, while EdD programs take three years, and may be completed while you work.

Additionally, some PhD programs are full-time commitments. Because of the workload, you can’t work a full-time schedule. However, your tuition is covered by a graduate assistantship. A Master’s degree may also not be necessary for acceptance into a PhD program.

USC Rossier resources

If you’re still unsure about which doctorate in education is right for you, we’re happy to provide personalized guidance .

You can also use USC Rossier’s simple career survey tool.

Curious about the requirements for our doctoral programs ? Check out the list of program comparisons. As a school that has offered doctoral degrees for 100 years, USC Rossier is uniquely positioned to provide insight and expertise on doctoral programs in education

Article Type

Article topics.

  • Higher education

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Which option is better M.Ed or Ph.D., after the B.Ed course?

Which option is better M.Ed or Ph.D., after the B.Ed course? 'photo

Teachers are equivalent to God because they always guide us to proceed in the proper direction. Therefore, the teacher needs to be well educated and skilled.

Government of India has initiated several teaching oriented undergraduate, postgraduate and Ph.D. level courses to help interested candidates in becoming a successful Teacher. B. Ed and M.Ed are teaching-oriented graduation and post-graduation level courses.

Ph.D. is a doctoral degree, which can be done after doing M.Ed or any post-graduation course. However, there is a lot of confusion among students related to these courses. In this blog, we are going to share a comprehensive answer to the most common question; which option is better M.Ed or Ph.D., after B.Ed course? Before coming to the analytical answer, let us first see in detail about M.Ed and Ph.D.

What is M.Ed?

M.ed, also known as master of education, is a postgraduate degree oriented towards the teaching profession. it can only be pursued after completing b.ed. in this course, the student gains in-depth knowledge related to student counselling, curriculum and instructions, administration, and student psychology. it is a compulsory postgraduate degree if you want to become a teacher at intermediate level or want to become a vice-principal or principal..

Eligibility criteria for M.Ed

For pursuing M.Ed students, should compulsorily have a B.Ed degree.

M.Ed course duration

M.Ed is a two years postgraduate degree divided into four semesters each of six months.

Motive/scope of M.Ed

Master of education has a good scope in the education industry. It offers highly well-paying jobs. There are various high paying Jobs after M.Ed. These jobs include: -

3. Vice Principal

4. Principal

5. Admission Counsellor

6. Career consultant

Academic progression after M.Ed

Post completing M.Ed students can do a Ph.D. and become lecturer and professor in colleges and universities.

What is a PhD?

Doctor of philosophy is the highest university degree. It is honoured to candidates who do original thesis and publish research papers in the subject in which they are doing Ph.D.

Ph.D. duration

There is no specific duration of a Ph.D. It usually takes three to five years to complete a PhD.

Ph.D. eligibility criteria

Candidate should be Post-graduation pass with minimum 50% marks before applying for Ph.D.

Scope after doing PhD

Ph.D. has a great value in the market. Ph.D. holders are offered high paid jobs in universities, colleges, and research and development departments of various organizations. Post completing Ph.D. you can become:-

1. Professor

2. Lecturer

3. Principal

4. Career advisor

5. Dean of University

6. Vice-Chancellor of university

7. Chancellor

8. Research scholar

9. Research Analyst

10. Head of Department

Let us do an analytical study of the M.Ed and Ph.D. course to decide which one is better for your career after doing B.Ed.

Case 1. Let us consider that you have not done post-graduation and want to do Ph.D. after B.Ed.

If you have completed B.Ed, then it is obvious that you are interested in the teaching profession. Therefore, we would suggest to do M.Ed, which is a postgraduate degree related to teaching. This will make you more focused on the teaching profession and will make you eligible for Ph.D.

Case 2. Let us consider you have done post-graduation after B.Ed and want to do PhD

If you have done B. Ed and have done a post-graduation degree. Then you can directly pursue a PhD without doing M.Ed. It will help you to become a lecturer or professor at a university or college.

Proper research is required before making any decision related to career-oriented courses. Career options should be chosen, keeping in mind your skills, aptitude, interest, personality, inner voice, and various other factors.Take your time, decide what you want, set your target, and go ahead!

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  • PhD Without a Masters

Written by Hannah Slack

Most students will complete a Masters before going on to study a PhD. But can you do a PhD without a Masters?

The journey prior to starting a PhD can be individual and PhD students studying something similar could have very different previous experiences. Some may come straight from their previous degree and others may have years of experience in work. This can feel very confusing when you are trying to work out whether you can apply for a PhD without a Masters.

This page will explain how you can get onto a PhD programme without a Masters, and whether this could be the right choice for you.

On this page

Do you need to get a masters to do a phd.

The short answer is that it is possible to do a PhD without a Masters. The long answer is that it is dependent on your personal experience, your subject area, the duration of your PhD programme and the location, as requirements can vary by country. It's technically possible in any discipline, but much more common in STEM or vocational subjects. Most Arts and Humanities PhDs will require a Masters.

It's worth noting that even when a Masters is not technically a requirement for a PhD, it may still be an advantage if places are particularly competitive.

PhD in Arts and Humanities without a Masters

Though not impossible, it is more uncommon for Arts and Humanities students to make the jump from Bachelors to PhD. As these subjects require students to propose an original research project, they need to be able to justify their work in the context of a wider field before they begin. A Masters degree is designed to give students the research experience and additional taught content to be able to do this.

If a Humanities student wanted to jump straight to a PhD they would need to demonstrate extensive research experience, an advanced knowledge of an academic field and a viable topic that will generate original research.

Can you get a PhD without a Masters in the USA?

In the USA , it's fairly common for students to go straight from their undergraduate degree to a PhD. This is because universities will usually award PhD candidates a Masters degree on their way to achieving their final doctorate. American PhD programmes typically have a large taught element during the first 1-4 years, making them suitable for students who have not previously studied at the postgraduate level.

How do you know whether you need a Masters?

PhDs are typically focused on niche topics, so it’s possible to do a project that you have no direct experience in. Instead, do you have experience of research that is relevant to the subject area you want to study? This could look like independent management of a research project over an extended period of time or particular skills that would suit the type of research you want to do. Although a PhD is a time to learn, it is also worth considering whether you would feel confident in your skills and knowledge without a Masters degree.

To gauge if this could be the route for you, make sure to talk to the right people. Talk to an academic who knows you if you’re currently at university. They will be able to advise if they think you’re ready for a PhD, based on their knowledge of your academic ability. It’s also important to talk to potential supervisors at the institutions you plan to apply for. They will let you know whether they think you would be suitable based on your current academic experience.

How to get a PhD without a Masters

There is no one way to get onto a PhD programme without a Masters. Usually, the route you take will depend on your abilities and your subject’s requirements.

Apply for Integrated PhD programmes

PhDs that are four years in length may include one year of training before moving onto a three-year PhD. These programmes may be advertised as Integrated , 1+3 or as part of a Doctoral Training Programme (DTP). If you secure a position with Research Council funding, then you will be funded throughout the entirety of the programme.

An Integrated programme may include lectures, seminars and practical workshops to help improve your research skills in preparation for a PhD. Some of these programmes may offer the opportunity to complete a Masters of Research (MRes) as part of this. You would be required to finish a substantial research project in the first year of study, likely related to your PhD topic. Most Integrated programmes will assess your progress or MRes project and upon successful completion, you will be automatically enrolled onto the PhD programme.

These programmes are a good option for those struggling with the eligibility requirements to go straight onto a PhD programme. Entry onto these programmes is usually a good undergraduate degree (at least an upper 2.1) in a relevant field. They also limit some of the hassle of doing two separate postgraduate degrees. For example, you won’t have to spend time searching and applying for a PhD during your Masters year.

Looking for an integrated PhD programme?

You can browse four-year integrated PhD programmes here on FindAPhD .

Gain professional experience

The other route that students can take to get on a PhD programme without a Masters is through professional experience.

This could look like an Industrial Experience year as part of an undergraduate degree or one to many years working after completion of your previous degree. This is more common in STEM fields and subjects that are predominantly vocational, such as Social Work, Psychology and Business.

The key to optimising professional experience is to demonstrate your relevant research and transferable skills – after all, to complete a PhD you must be able to contextualise your topic in a larger research field. Usually, applicants taking this route will apply to write about a specific subject theme or case study they have professional experience working with.

What is it like to do a PhD without a Masters?

Read about one student's experience making the leap from undergraduate to PhD .

Develop a strong research CV and show academic prowess

Generally this is a less common route, but a strong research CV and academic prowess may be sufficient in subjects where you apply to an advertised project. This is more common in STEM related topics.

If you’re overachieving throughout your Bachelors degree and know you want to move on to postgraduate study, it’s worthwhile talking to an academic you know or your personal tutor. They will have a better grip on your potential fit to current and future research opportunities. They can also advise you on possible internships or summer projects that could help you be more successful in PhD applications.

The benefits of professional experience or a Masters degree

There are many reasons to consider having professional experience or taking a year (or more) out before starting a PhD.

  • Experience of life outside of academia – This will help you to decide whether to do a PhD for the right reasons: such as whether you really want to pursue research on a specific topic and how it might benefit your career.
  • Transferable skills from professional experience benefit a PhD – Developing strong time and project management skills can help you balance the demands of a PhD. Usually professional workplaces have set working hours/days and this can teach you to have a good work life balance when working in academia.
  • Connections outside of academia – Having a professional network can open up opportunities for collaboration during your PhD or help you in the non-academic job market post PhD.
  • Save time and money – An application with relevant professional experience is still a competitive one and you won’t have to fund and spend additional time studying. It’s worth noting that for those that have been in work for some time, the change in earnings during a PhD could be a consideration.

But there are many reasons to consider studying for a Masters degree. It is worth considering these reasons so as to help you decide whether applying for a PhD without a Masters is for you.

  • The opportunity to experience postgraduate life – A Masters is more practical and involves more independent work than an undergraduate degree. A PhD builds on this as you are expected to work independently and lead your project. A one year Masters is a good way to assess whether you would want to spend three to four years doing a PhD.
  • Skills relevant for a PhD – The skills learned during a Masters could be directly applicable to a PhD in that field or a related one. It can be hard to pick a specific research topic and a Masters could help you confirm your interest or show you whether your interests lie elsewhere.
  • Connections within academia – A Masters allows you to experience working with an academic supervisor and puts you in the best location to connect with other academics and PhD students.
  • Competitive application – PhD applications are competitive and a Masters degree can offer specific and relevant experience.

Should you do a PhD without a Masters?

Whether you should or should not apply for a PhD without a Masters will depend on you. The first year of a PhD could also prove more difficult for you than others. Without a Masters degree you will have limited (if any) experience of maintaining a supervisor relationship, conducting original research and writing up your findings – all important parts of doing a PhD.

But it is important to remember that while it might initially feel overwhelming, that’s not to say you won’t catch up. And, as someone without a Masters, you shouldn’t face unrealistic expectations from your peers and supervisors. It is possible to have a good PhD experience with either professional experience or a Masters, or both!

Find a PhD project

Ready to make the leap? Browse PhD projects on our website today.

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can i do phd in education without m ed

We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about PhDs, covering course types, applications, funding and the benefits of further study.

can i do phd in education without m ed

Getting ready to apply for a PhD? Our guides explain research proposals, references and entry tests for doctoral programmes.

can i do phd in education without m ed

Understand what a successful PhD research proposal needs to include and how to go about writing one for your project application.

can i do phd in education without m ed

Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.

can i do phd in education without m ed

A checklist of the things you'll need to do when making an international PhD application, from meeting the entry requirements to sorting out your visa.

can i do phd in education without m ed

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Education (Educational Administration P-12) EdD

An online educational administration doctorate with no dissertation required, program-at-a-glance (graduate).

Credit Hours:

Total Hours: 54

Cost per Credit Hour:

Calculate Your Tuition

Completion Time:

Accreditation:

Special Requirements:

Copy of current educator license (with at least 3 years of teaching experience).

Learn more about this program:

Thank you for your interest in online at southern miss.

Ready to take the next step?

If you are an educator looking to become a leader in your school, the online Educational Administration EdD Degree will teach you how to be an effective administrator at the building or district level. The best part? No dissertation is required!

The online E ducational Administration EdD offers a unique learning experience with synchronous classes. These live, online classes allow you to meet with your instructor and classmates each week and learn with a community of your peers. Your classes will meet at the same time and on the same day each week, typically night classes.

With this degree, you’ll be gaining real-world experience and solving hands-on issues as you work through the program. This program will immerse you in theories of teacher supervision, school budgeting and finance, educational decision-making, and leadership as it relates to becoming a principal, superintendent, or program coordinator.  Applicants are required to have at least three years of teaching experience .  

Looking for more education-related degrees? Check out our other fully-online options ! Want more info about this degree ? Our enrollment coaches are standing by to assist you. Click here for more info! This is your life, plus college!

Scholarship opportunities are available for online students! Our Online Student Scholarship gives first-time, fully online students an opportunity for $500 towards their first semester. To get started with our Online Student Scholarship or to view our list of available scholarships for which you may qualify, visit our Student Scholarship page  now!

What can you do with an Education Administration EdD?

An Education Administration EdD provides you with the knowledge and necessary skills for leadership roles in educational institutions, policy development, and program management in education.

A picture of our enrollment coach ready to help you find your online degree

We are here to help! Our enrollment coaches are standing by to help you take the next step.

We’ll call you soon! In the meantime, learn more about us from our blog or start your application.

Course Requirements (54 hours)

Course Credits
Public School Finance 3 hrs.
School Community Relations 3 hrs.
Education Facilities Development and Management 3 hrs.
School Law 3 hrs.
Introduction to P-12 Education Policy 3 hrs.
Practitioner Inquiry I 3 hrs.
Educational Leadership Seminar 3 hrs.
Capstone in Educational Leadership 12 hrs.
Seminar: Theories in Educational Organization and Administration 3 hrs.
Socio-Political Issues and Educational Leadership 3 hrs.
Introduction to Educational Statistics 3 hrs.
Practitioner Inquiry II 3 hrs.
Practitioner Inquiry III 3 hrs.

Select 1 course:

Course Credits
Contextual Dimensions of the Principalship 3 hrs.
The Superintendency 3 hrs.
Course Credits
Practicum in Educational Administration 3 hrs.
Practicum in Supervision 3 hrs.

Additional Note

Please note that the above information is meant to be a guide and is not official. For further information regarding courses for this degree, see the University Bulletin . Please be aware that not all course choices listed in the University Bulletin are available online. However, sufficient online options are available to complete this degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

The prospective student must complete the Graduate School admission application online and pay the application fee at http://apps.usm.edu/graduate-school/grad-school-apps/ .

To find pricing information,   visit our pricing page . For financial aid information,  view our financial aid page . For detailed tuition information,  visit our business services page .

Yes! To view all the funding resources available to graduate students, please visit the  Graduate Admissions Funding Resources  page.

You can earn an a dministrative license if you do not already hold it, and you can earn a s uperintendent license if you already hold administrative license. Also you must have held a license for three years to be admitted. However, l icensure requirements and approval are determined by each state’s licensing board. For general information about professional licensure, please review the Online Programs & Professional Licensure Page .

No, the GRE is no long required for admission into this program.

You will need a USM application, resume, letter of interest, official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.

The program, including the final Capstone Project, may be completed over three years.

Yes, the online Education Administration Doctorate degree program is delivered 100% online.

No. Instead of a dissertation, this program requires a capstone research project that is focused on a real-world problem of practice that you encounter in your workplace. The capstone is completed in courses that are schedule alongside the content courses so that you will be able to complete the capstone as you complete the required coursework.

At the discretion of the academic program, the Ed.D. program will accept up to 18 transfer hours so long as the credits have not been applied to a previously conferred degree.

No, there is no out-of-state tuition associated with the online program.

If you still have questions, please visit our FAQ page , or take a moment to fill out our form at the bottom of the screen, and we will reach out to you!

Admission Requirements

In addition to the requirements detailed in  Admission Requirements and Procedures , applicants must meet the following requirements and submit the following documents:

  • Statement of Purpose – In a letter or essay format, describe your professional experiences and goals and how obtaining this degree will help you to realize those goals.
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Copy of current educator license (with at least three years of teaching experience)
  • Master’s or Specialist degree required

This program admits new students each fall. Members of underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Program Requirements and Academic Policies See  General Degree Requirements  and  General Academic Information .

The online Educational Administration Doctorate is nationally recognized by CAEP, and the program is aligned to the Educational Leadership Constituent Council (ELCC) standards. It is a part time, fully online program redesigned to accommodate the schedule of current educators. The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools of Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The online Educational Administration doctorate is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). That means you can expect a program with the highest standards and quality.

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can i do phd in education without m ed

Can You Get a PhD without a Masters?

  • Applying to a PhD

Yes, it’s possible to get a PhD without first having a Masters degree .

The conventional route for someone who earns a PhD is to pursue a Bachelor’s degree, followed by a Masters degree and then a PhD. However, several students opt to bypass a Master’s degree by enrolling onto a doctoral programme as soon as they complete their undergraduate degree.

Before we discuss how this can be done, it is worth mentioning the advantages and disadvantages of this route.

Advantages of Applying to a PhD without A Masters

The motivations for undertaking a PhD immediately after an undergraduate course are largely in saving money and time. This is because you will essentially eliminate a year of study. Another advantage of immediately enrolling onto a doctorate degree is project availability. If you find a project that you’re really interested in, it’s unlikely that it will still be available in a years’ time. Therefore, bypassing a Masters and enrolling directly into a PhD will increase your chances of securing the research project before it becomes unavailable.

Disadvantages of Applying to a PhD without A Masters

Although a Masters degree will add a year onto your academic journey, it can be incredibility helpful for your development and can help prepare you for a doctoral degree.

Not having a Master’s degree may prove to be a hindrance during your application process. This is because many other students will also apply to the same research projects, and it’s likely that the majority will hold a Masters. This will put you at a disadvantage to them.

Besides this, the dissertation project you’ll be required to undertake on a Master’s programme will provide you with a taste of what it is like to work on a research-based project. In addition to this, it’s likely that you’ll be able to select your own dissertation topic. As such, you can explore a specific field you’re interested in in further detail. This is a great way to confirm that both research-based work and the specific field you’re interested in are right for you before committing the next few years to it via a PhD.

Another advantage to the dissertation project associated with a Masters degree is the opportunity it provides you with to work closely with a project supervisor. This will help you understand the PhD student-supervisor relationship and communication frequency that works best for you. You can then use this knowledge to find supervisors who would compliment you when it comes time to find a PhD project to apply to. For tips on how to find a great PhD supervisor, check out our supervisor guide .

PhD without a Masters – How Does It Work?

To be considered for a PhD without a Master’s, at a minimum you will be expected to have a Bachelors degree. For students looking to enrol onto a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) PhD, a relevant Bachelors in a 3-year undergraduate course is usually expected. However, this is not the case for students looking to apply to non-STEM PhDs. Rather, students looking to apply to doctorates in subjects such as those surrounding Arts and Humanities are usually expected to have a relevant Bachelors from a 4-year course.

In addition to this, you will need to have demonstrated strong academic performance during your undergraduate course. This means that your Bachelors will need to be at least a UK Upper Second-Class Honours (2.1) for nearly all institutions to consider you.

Should you be accepted into a PhD programme without a Masters, the usual process will be to first register you as an MPhil student. You will then have a year to prepare and submit a thesis. Your thesis will need to detail the research you have carried out within that year and outline how you intend to continue it into a full PhD study. There are three outcomes of this MPhil thesis review:

  • Failure and you’re not awarded anything.
  • You pass, however, the supervisor doesn’t believe you’ve demonstrated strong research skills. You’re awarded an MPhil but they do not upgrade your course to a PhD programme.
  • You pass and the supervisor believes you have proven yourself as a capable researcher. Your course is upgraded to a PhD as opposed to you being awarding an MPhil.

For more information on these outcomes, read the outcomes section of our PhD Viva guide .

Integrated PhD

Some universities offer Integrated PhD degree programmes (also known as an Integrated Masters degree). These are four-year programmes comprising of a one-year Masters degree immediately followed by a three-year PhD degree. These can prove a great option for graduate students who are looking to undertake a PhD without a Masters but are struggling to meet the eligibility requirements. You can read about the many benefits of  integrated degrees here .

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

PhD without a Bachelors – Is It Possible?

Yes, it is possible to get a PhD without a Bachelor’s, however, this is extremely uncommon.

When this occurs, it is almost always reserved for very mature individuals. For example, an individual may not be in active academia but still may have significantly contributed to their field. This contribution could be through the work they have undertaken as part of their career, or as part of a long-term study project, they have undertaken out of self-interest.

In either case, the individual would need to prove that they have extensive experience in their field and have directly contributed to new knowledge within it. The key factor here is that their work has pushed the boundaries of existing knowledge. It is not enough for an individual to be regarded as an expert in their field – they must have contributed something new and meaningful. It’s common for individuals awarded a PhD through this means to have produced several publications within their lifetime. It’s also common for the individual to have gained several professional accreditations within their field before even being considered suitable for a PhD research degree.

Universities Offering PhD without a Masters

Unfortunately, there is not a centralised list of universities which offer PhDs without a Master’s degree. The reason for this is that the edibility requirements differ from PhD to PhD and from department to department.

Therefore, you will need to check the guidelines for each individual university and the requirements for each specific PhD you’re interested in.

Should you find a PhD programme you can apply to with a Bachelors, make every effort to make your application as strong as possible. This is because you will be competing against other candidates, most of who will have a Master’s degree.

Not only can you strengthen your application by having a Bachelors with a First-Class Honours (1st), but you can also do so by showing the traits of a successful researcher. This includes showing a genuine interest in the project, a high work ethic, and exceptional communication skills.

Additionally, a strong letter of recommendation from a respected university lecturer will prove very beneficial. This is especially true if the lecturer supervisors his or her own PhD students. This is because the lecturer will understand the skills required for an adept research student.

For more advice on how to apply to a PhD degree, check out our Application Process Guide.

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  • Best Online Ed.D. In Curriculum And Instruction Programs

Best Online Ed.D. In Curriculum And Instruction Programs Of 2024

Matt Whittle

Updated: Nov 29, 2023, 1:25pm

Schools at all levels need leaders who can apply research to craft an effective course of study for each subject. These problem-solving professionals work in administrative roles to ensure curricula are equitable, informative, outcomes-based and practical. To pursue these positions, many current workers and aspiring administrators pursue doctors of education (Ed.D.s) in curriculum and instruction.

As many schools have expanded their offerings to include online degrees, online Ed.D.s in curriculum and instruction have become more popular. Distance education eliminates the need to relocate for school or commute to campus—though some of these programs still include in-person requirements.

In this guide, explore 10 of the top online Ed.D.s in curriculum and instruction, along with information on tuition costs, accreditation, course offerings and financial aid.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

  • 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
  • 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
  • All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
  • Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
  • Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We scored 184 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction programs in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of June 2023.

We scored schools based on the following categories:

Student Outcomes:

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

  • In-state graduate student tuition
  • In-state graduate student fees
  • Alternative tuition plans offered
  • Median federal student loan debt
  • Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

  • Student-to-faculty ratio
  • Socioeconomic diversity
  • Availability of online coursework
  • Total number of graduate assistants
  • More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

  • Fully accredited
  • Programmatic accreditation status
  • Nonprofit status

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 90% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction Options

Should you enroll in an online ed.d. in curriculum and instruction, accreditation for ed.d. in curriculum and instruction online programs, how to find the right online ed.d. in curriculum and instruction for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online ed.d. in curriculum and instruction programs, carson-newman university, university of florida, university of virginia-main campus, lindenwood university.

  • Texas A & M University-College Station

Indiana University Bloomington

University of missouri-columbia, liberty university, the university of texas rio grande valley, university of south carolina.

Carson-Newman University

Graduate Tuition

$570/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education:

Overall Graduation Rate

Through Carson-Newman University , located in Jefferson City, Tennessee, students can pursue an online doctor of education with a concentration in curriculum and instruction. Learners may alternatively opt for an administrative leadership concentration, which is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

Each Ed.D. student at Carson-Newman completes a dissertation and a mentored residency experience. Online learners pay an additional $50 per credit.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
  • School Type: Private
  • Application Fee: Free
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 57 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Part time, full time
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Management of the school, organizational leadership
  • Concentrations Available: Administrative leadership, curriculum and instruction leadership
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for residency

University of Florida

$449/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Gainesville’s University of Florida (UF) features an online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction. Students complete assignments through a virtual, asynchronous format. Each learner must commit to three in-person experiences: weeklong institutes across three summers, a one-day dissertation defense and a one-day exam.

Online students pay a $29 per-credit fee. UF charges flat-rate tuition but includes a separate fee for out-of-state learners. These students can qualify for out-of-state tuition waivers to lower this fee.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
  • School Type: Public
  • Application Fee: $30
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 59 credits
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Critical pedagogy, issues in teacher education
  • Concentrations Available: N/A
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes

University of Virginia-Main Campus

$599/credit

The online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction at Charlottesville’s University of Virginia (UVA) uses part-time enrollment, allowing students to graduate in four to seven years. UVA’s asynchronous delivery suits working professionals with busy schedules who need to complete assignments on their own time.

Each student must complete six hours of field study, along with a capstone proposal and defense. UVA uses flat-rate tuition to extend affordability beyond Virginia. Online learning carries a $9 fee per credit.

  • Application Fee: $85
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 72 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Part time
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Teachers as leaders, professional knowledge
  • Concentrations Available: Student-led area of emphasis
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for field study

Lindenwood University

$845/credit

Through Lindenwood University , headquartered in St. Charles, Missouri, students can complete an online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction using an asynchronous format. However, they can opt to engage in synchronous sessions to maximize engagement with peers and professors. Coursework takes a social justice approach to curriculum design, policy and assessment.

Each student completes a “problem-based dissertation.” They identify a real-world issue in education administration, perform qualitative and quantitative research on how the problem came to be and present actionable solutions for future educators.

  • Degree Credit Requirements: 48 credits
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Leading organizational change, applied quantitative research methods
  • In-Person Requirements: No

Texas A&M University-College Station

Texas A&M University-College Station

$1,071/credit (in state)

Texas A&M University ‘s main campus in College Station features an online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction. In this program, students complete asynchronous assignments alongside a cohort of peers. The school applies its three tenets of leadership, discovery and application of knowledge to develop education leaders in preschool through 12th grade education settings.

Each applicant must possess five years of education experience to qualify for the program. Though students complete coursework entirely online, Texas A&M requires all learners in the program to complete a 150-hour internship.

  • Application Fee: $65
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 64 credits
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Professional development strategies for teachers, 21st century integration of theory in educational settings
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an internship

Indiana University Bloomington

$500/credit (in state)

The online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction at Indiana University Bloomington (IU) focuses on art education. The program seeks to improve art education through support and mentorship for aspiring teachers in the field by covering practical solutions to real-world problems.

The curriculum offers significant flexibility and allows learners to customize their course of study with faculty approval. Each student completes a three-credit course preparing and proposing a dissertation before completing their doctoral thesis project in curriculum and instruction.

  • Application Fee: $70
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Strategies for educational inquiry, methodological approaches to educational inquiry
  • Concentrations Available: Art education

University of Missouri-Columbia

$535/credit

University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) offers an online Ed.D. in learning, teaching and curriculum (LTC). Students can concentrate in general LTC studies, elementary education or reading education. Coursework covers Common Core State Standards for teaching in areas like communication and literature.

Learners also explore methods for crafting an effective course of study in a curriculum theories course. Mizzou maintains a flat-rate tuition policy for all online students, allowing out-of-state learners to pay the same per-credit tuition as their in-state peers.

  • Application Fee: $75
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Teaching literature, teaching communication
  • Concentrations Available: General LTC studies, elementary education, reading education

Liberty University

$595/credit

The online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction at Lynchville, Virginia’s Liberty University allows students to transfer up to 50% of their required credits from previous education. With eight available concentrations to choose from, each learner can pick a pathway that aligns with their professional goals.

Along with creating a course of study for their given student population, students learn to assess curricula to find potential areas of improvement. Though learners do not need to complete dissertations, the program culminates with an extensive, final capstone project.

  • Application Fee: $50
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Curriculum theory, investigations in curriculum change
  • Concentrations Available: Educational psychology, elementary education, general, instructional design and technology, middle grades education, online teaching and learning, secondary
  • education, special education

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

$741/credit (in state)

At the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), learners can pursue an online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction that offers seven specializations, including literacy, educational technology, special education and bilingual studies. UTRGV students advance through the program in a cohort by completing virtual discussions through synchronous delivery.

The Brownsville, Texas-based university does not require Ed.D. learners to complete a dissertation. Graduates can pursue teaching and administrative roles at every level, from preschool through higher education.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on a set schedule
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 66 credits
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Adult learning strategies, advanced models of teaching
  • Concentrations Available: Bilingual studies, educational technology, curriculum and pedagogical generalist, literacy, mathematics education, science education, special education

University of South Carolina

$572/credit

You can pursue an online Ed.D. in curriculum studies at the University of South Carolina . This equity-focused degree program provides connection and interaction with classmates and faculty even though it does not require any in-person components.

Courses run in eight-week terms. Graduates are equipped to work as curriculum specialists at any grade level or in the private sector. They may also teach at any grade level, work as college professors or go on to work in education administration.

Out-of-state learners do not pay a higher tuition rate for USC’s Ed.D. program. South Carolina certified teachers pay a discounted tuition rate of $515 per credit.

  • Program Enrollment Options: Full time
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Introduction to diversity and the curriculum, principles of curriculum construction

Online degrees typically allow for greater flexibility in scheduling courses and completing assignments. However, this freedom creates some distinct differences between online learning and on-campus classes. Before applying to any online Ed.D. program in curriculum and instruction, consider your availability and personal learning style.

For example, programs may differ in their delivery method. Some use asynchronous coursework, which does not require learners to log on at specific times, instead allowing them to complete assignments on their own schedule. This method requires strong self-motivation and organization to stay on top of coursework.

Synchronous delivery includes set class times, creating a more structured environment for distance learners.

Other schools blend online and in-person learning through hybrid delivery. Before applying to any hybrid program, make sure you are available to fulfill the in-person requirements. Similarly, even “fully online” Ed.D. programs in curriculum and instruction may offer online coursework but require in-person residencies or other experiential learning.

The following sections explore other factors to consider as you research available programs.

Accreditation signals academic excellence. Through the accreditation process, schools and programs undergo a voluntary evaluation of their student resources, classes and outcomes.

Institutional Accreditation

Institutional accreditation ensures your eligibility for federal student aid and professional certifications. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) approve accrediting bodies, including the following popular institutional accreditors:

  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  • New England Commission of Higher Education
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • WASC Senior College and University Commission
  • Higher Learning Commission
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

You can use CHEA’s searchable directory to check a school’s accreditation status.

Programmatic Accreditation

Subject-specific accreditation can also apply to programs and departments within universities. Education preparation programs are primarily accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Earning a CAEP-accredited degree demonstrates to prospective employers that you received a high-quality education. While researching degree options, you can use CAEP’s provider search to check the programmatic accreditation status of a school.

The following steps can help you narrow your options once you’ve decided to pursue your Ed.D. online.

Consider Your Future Goals

A doctorate is a terminal degree in the field of education. At this point in your educational career, you’ve likely completed a bachelor’s program and a master’s degree and have a strong sense of your goals. Knowing your professional aspirations can inform your degree choice.

An Ed.D. focuses more on practical application in the workforce, while a Ph.D. emphasizes research and typically prepares students for professorial roles in academia. If you want to pursue work as an educational administrator, an Ed.D. may be the right fit.

Similarly, use your professional goals to guide your search for an Ed.D. program with relevant opportunities for experience and networking. Some schools require internships or other forms of experiential learning. If you have a specific grade level or concentration in mind, prioritize programs that provide these opportunities.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Earning your doctorate requires a long-term investment of time, energy and finances. The total tuition cost for schools on this list range from just under $30,000 to nearly $49,000, amounting to an average of about $40,500.

Doctorates often function as “funded” programs, wherein students receive stipends or tuition reimbursement while working as assistant professors or in other professional roles. Ph.D. programs are more commonly funded than Ed.D.s, but some schools do help fund Ed.D. programs.

To help cover the cost of your doctoral program, start by filling out a FAFSA®. The FAFSA helps determine your eligibility for federal student aid, which may include direct unsubsidized loans and grad PLUS loans. Also research any available grants and scholarships, which do not require repayment. You might also pursue a graduate assistantship to help fund your studies.

What is an Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction?

An Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction is a doctoral degree for aspiring administrators looking to apply educational theory to practice. These degrees focus on using qualitative and quantitative research to design effective curricular offerings across subjects and age groups.

Can you get an Ed.D. without a dissertation?

Yes, some Ed.D. programs do not require a dissertation. However, they may still mandate a capstone research project or another culminating experience.

Can you teach at a university with an Ed.D.?

Yes, you can teach at a university with an Ed.D., but experience and education criteria for teaching positions vary among schools.

Matt Whittle

Matt Whittle has experience writing and editing accessible education-related content in health, technology, nursing and business subjects. His work has been featured on Sleep.org, Psychology.org and NurseJournal.org.

2024 Best Doctorate Degrees Online [No Dissertation Required]

In the past, the majority of doctoral programs always required students to write a dissertation.  Now, instead of spending years working on a dissertation, a growing number of universities offer doctoral students an alternative to the dissertation process: a capstone project.

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List of Doctorate Degrees without Dissertation Requirements

Here is a list of doctoral programs that don’t require a dissertation. Instead, you complete a capstone project or a doctoral study project.

Click on your desired field of study to jump to that section:

  • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
  • Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
  • Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA)
  • Doctor of Information Technology (DIT)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
  • Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)
  • Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)
  • Doctor of Public Health (DPH)
  • Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Like dissertations, capstone projects are a culmination of your education. They usually involve some original research or some type of applied practical knowledge in your field. It all depends on the school and program.

Be sure to check out the specializations available, as well as the particular requirements for each of these non dissertation PhD programs to be sure you select the one that will best suit you and help you achieve your goals.

1. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

If you’re an experienced business professional looking to advance your career, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) might be the perfect fit. Many online DBA programs offer a dissertation-free option, replacing it with a capstone project. This allows you to tackle real-world business challenges, applying your learning directly to your work.

In a DBA program, you’ll delve into advanced topics like strategic management and data-driven decision-making. The flexible online format lets you balance your studies with your career. By choosing a DBA, you’re positioning yourself for executive roles or high-level consulting opportunities, all without the need for a traditional dissertation.

2. Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

If you’re an education professional seeking to advance your career and make a larger impact, an online Doctor of Education (EdD) could be your next step. Many EdD programs now offer a no dissertation path, typically replacing it with a capstone project.

In an EdD program, you’ll explore advanced educational leadership, policy, and curriculum development. Your capstone project will likely focus on solving real-world educational challenges, allowing you to directly apply your learning to your professional context. The online format provides flexibility, enabling you to balance your studies with your current teaching or administrative role. By earning an EdD, you’re preparing yourself for top positions in educational leadership, policy-making, or curriculum design, all while avoiding the lengthy, research-intensive dissertation process.

3. Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA)

If you’re a healthcare professional aiming to take on top leadership roles in the rapidly evolving healthcare industry, a Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA) could be your ideal path. Many online DHA programs offer a path without the lengthy dissertation process, often replacing it with a capstone project.

In a DHA program, you’ll dive into crucial areas like healthcare policy, organizational leadership, and decision-making in healthcare settings. Your capstone project will typically involve addressing real-world healthcare management challenges, allowing you to apply your learning directly to your field. By earning a DHA, you’re positioning yourself for executive roles in hospitals, healthcare systems, or health policy organizations, all without a dissertation requirement.

4. Doctor of Information Technology (DIT)

Are you ready to elevate your IT career to new heights? A Doctor of Information Technology (DIT) could be your key to unlocking advanced opportunities in the tech world. Many online DIT programs now offer a path without a dissertation requirement, replacing it with a comprehensive project that showcases your expertise.

In this program, you’ll immerse yourself in crucial areas like cybersecurity strategy, AI implementation, and enterprise architecture. Your final project will likely involve solving complex technological challenges, allowing you to apply cutting-edge concepts to real-world scenarios. The flexible online format lets you balance your studies with your current role, positioning you for high-level positions such as Chief Information Officer or IT strategist. With a DIT, you’ll gain the skills to drive digital transformation and shape the future of technology in various industries.

5. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Are you passionate about advancing patient care and shaping the future of nursing? A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) could be your pathway to becoming a leader in healthcare innovation. Many online DNP programs now offer alternatives to the traditional dissertation, focusing instead on practice-based projects that directly impact patient outcomes.

In this program, you’ll explore advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and evidence-based care strategies. Your final project will typically involve implementing and evaluating a real-world healthcare intervention, allowing you to translate research into practice. The online format accommodates your demanding nursing schedule while elevating your expertise. This degree prepares you for roles such as advanced practice nurse, clinical leader, or healthcare policy advocate, empowering you to drive meaningful change in healthcare delivery and patient care quality.

6. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Are you ready to take your physical therapy career to the next level? A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) can open doors to advanced practice and leadership in rehabilitation care. Many online DPT programs now offer capstone projects instead of dissertations, allowing you to apply your learning directly to clinical practice.

During your studies, you’ll delve into advanced topics like movement science, clinical decision-making, and evidence-based interventions. Your capstone project will likely involve developing and implementing innovative treatment approaches or conducting clinically relevant research. The online program format enables you to continue your clinical work while advancing your education. A DPT prepares you for roles as a specialized clinician, researcher, or leader in physical therapy, equipping you with the skills to enhance patient outcomes and contribute to the evolution of rehabilitation science.

7. Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

Are you passionate about advancing mental health care and making a profound difference in people’s lives? A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) can elevate your clinical skills and prepare you for leadership in psychological practice. Many online PsyD programs now offer practicum-based projects as an alternative to the traditional dissertation, allowing you to apply advanced concepts directly to clinical scenarios.

Throughout your doctoral journey, you’ll explore cutting-edge therapeutic techniques, psychological assessment methods, and evidence-based interventions. Your culminating project will likely involve developing and implementing innovative treatment approaches or conducting clinically relevant research in real-world settings.

The online format of a PsyD program enables you to continue your current clinical work while advancing your expertise. This degree prepares you for roles as a licensed psychologist, clinical director, or consultant, equipping you with the skills to provide high-level psychological services and contribute to the evolution of mental health care.

8. Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)

Looking to revolutionize public service and governance? A Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) could be your springboard to top-tier leadership in the public sector. Many online DPA programs have shifted from traditional dissertations to capstone projects, giving you the chance to address real administrative challenges head-on.

This program will immerse you in crucial areas like policy analysis, organizational dynamics, and strategic public management. For your final project, you might develop innovative solutions for complex governmental issues or conduct research aimed at enhancing public sector efficiency. The online DPA allows you to elevate your expertise while maintaining your current role. This doctorate can help position you for influential positions such as executive director, policy strategist, or government reform consultant. You’ll gain the insights needed to spearhead significant improvements in public institutions and non-profit organizations.

9. Doctor of Public Health (DPH)

A Doctor of Public Health (DPH) can enhance your ability to address complex health challenges on a population level. Many online DPH programs now offer project-based alternatives to traditional dissertations, allowing you to apply your learning to real-world public health issues.

In this program, you’ll study advanced epidemiology, health policy, and evidence-based interventions. Your final project might involve developing a community health initiative or analyzing the impact of a public health policy. The online format lets you continue your current work while expanding your expertise. A DPH prepares you for roles such as health department director, global health consultant, or public health researcher. This degree equips you with the skills to influence health outcomes across communities and contribute to the advancement of public health practices.

10. Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Are you driven to make a lasting impact in social services and community welfare? A Doctor of Social Work (DSW) can empower you to become a transformative leader in the field. Many online DSW programs now offer alternatives to the traditional dissertation, focusing on applied projects that directly address real-world social challenges.

In this program, you’ll explore advanced topics like social policy analysis, evidence-based practice models, and organizational leadership in social services. Your final project will typically involve developing and implementing innovative interventions or policies that address pressing social issues.

The online format of a DSW allows you to balance your studies with your current social work practice, enhancing your expertise while you continue to serve your community. This degree prepares you for roles such as clinical supervisor, policy advocate, or social services director, equipping you with the knowledge to drive systemic change and improve social outcomes on a broader scale.

What is a Doctoral Dissertation?

A doctoral dissertation, the culmination of most doctoral degree programs, is a substantial written document in which the student uses the teachings and skills gleaned from the entire program to develop and discuss an original concept, theory or practice that will help advance the field.

Writing a dissertation is no easy feat! They are typically hundreds of pages long, and students work on them for over a year, reviewing research, conducting experiments and analyzing data.

Because this project is daunting, demanding, and often requires years of research, many universities have come up with alternatives that allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and provide worthwhile contributions to their field without completing a traditional dissertation.

What Are All But Dissertation Completion Programs?

“All But Dissertation” (ABD) completion programs, also known as PhD completion programs, are designed to help students who have completed all the requirements of a doctoral degree program except the dissertation.

Quite often, students work diligently through the coursework of their doctoral program, but fall short when it comes to completing the required dissertation. According to the Council of Graduate Schools , only about 56% of those who start a doctoral degree program earn their doctorate or PhD within 10 years. Completing a dissertation is an enormous project that entails extensive research — and life, family, careers and other obligations sometimes get in the way.

For example, the Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP) offered by National University is one example of a structured program that transfers credit for prior academic coursework and provides guidance and mentorship as you work to finish your dissertation. This type of program typically takes 2-3 years.

Is a Dissertation Required for a PhD?

Not always. In the past a dissertation was required for a PhD, but a growing number of institutions have started to offer online doctoral programs no dissertation.

Instead, students may complete a capstone project to demonstrate their knowledge and provide new contributions to the field. This may be a combination of a research paper and fieldwork, or perhaps you might do some consulting work at a functioning business. However, it most cases, it will require considerably less independent research than what is required for a dissertation.

Capstone projects vary from school to school, and program to program.

One of the benefits of non-dissertation doctorate degrees is that you can finish in less time. Check out our guide on accelerated online doctoral programs for a deeper look.

Is Financial Aid Available for Online PhD Programs?

Looking to manage the costs of an online PhD program? You’ve got options.

First up, the FAFSA – it’s not just for undergrads and can open doors to federal grants and loans. Don’t overlook state financial aid either; many states offer loan programs that might be more budget-friendly than private loans, helping to reduce the cost of repayment.

Also, keep an eye out for scholarships and grants tailored for online doctoral students. These can take into account your academic achievements and work experience.

Many universities now offer affordable online programs, designed to provide quality education without the hefty price tag of traditional on-campus degrees.  For more specific details and info about reducing these costs, the financial aid office at your university is a great resource. They can guide you through the maze of options and help you find the best fit for your financial situation.

Can You Get a No Dissertation Doctorate Online?

Yes! A growing number of reputable, accredited colleges and universities offer non-dissertation doctorate programs. We’ve compiled a list of universities offering online doctorate degrees without dissertation requirements in the next section.

Are There Any PhD Programs Without Dissertation Requirements?

Yes, there are quite a few doctoral programs without dissertation requirements, but PhD programs without dissertation requirements are few and far between. In these cases, instead of the dissertation most commonly used in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program, a capstone project is required to help you put your new-found skills to good use.

In the past, dissertations were required so that you could demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in your field. But universities have started to realize that there are quite a few ways you can do that.

As you can see with the online DBA programs, a few colleges are no longer requiring dissertations. They allow you to complete a doctoral capstone project instead. No, it’s not technically a dissertation. But you do prove that you have acquired a high level of expertise in your field of study.

Higher education is continuing to change at a rapid pace. As another example, a number of PhD programs without GRE requirements are appearing.

How Many Credits Do PhD Programs Require?

Most PhD programs require between 54 and 90 credit hours. That’s between 18 and 30 courses. This is true for both campus-based PhD programs and online PhD programs.

Let’s look at one of National University’s online programs as an example. The online DBA in Accounting is 54 credit hours and consists of 18 courses (most courses are 3 credit hours).

In contrast, if you attend a state university campus program like the University of Illinois, the PhD in Business requires 64 credit hours (around 21 courses), provided you already have your master’s degree.

Do All Doctoral Programs Require a Dissertation?

No. A wide-range of doctoral programs do not have a dissertation. Instead, graduate schools allow you to complete a capstone project which focuses on solving a real-world problem.

You can also earn your doctorate through an accredited online program if you don’t want to attend on campus.

Is a PhD Program Without a Dissertation Respected?

A dissertation allows students the opportunity to demonstrate expertise in their field of study through extensive research and an associated dissertation research paper.

In certain fields, a dissertation will be the measure of quality. This is true for academia should you ever want to be a tenured professor at Harvard. But if that’s not your goal, doctoral programs in higher education, leadership, or business administration are reputable – provided you earn your doctorate from a graduate school with regional accreditation.

Can I Get an Online Doctorate Degree Without a Dissertation?

Yes. There are dozens of online doctorate degrees with no dissertation being offered from accredited universities. The most common doctoral degree programs are the Doctor of Education, Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Psychology, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Are There Any 18 Month Doctorate with No Dissertation Programs?

Yes. Some online PhD no dissertation programs can be completed in as little as 18 to 24 months.

To finish in a short time like this, you will need to be enrolled full time and progressing through your doctorate program courses successfully. You will also need your capstone project to be approved in a timely manner. Again, in order to complete your doctorate in less than 18 months, you’ll need to enroll in a PhD without thesis or dissertation requirement.

Are There Any PhD Without Dissertation Programs Online?

Yes, a number of universities offer online doctoral degree programs without dissertation to help working professionals juggle full time jobs with their studies. We’ve compiled a list of them above. As more universities offer no dissertation doctorates, we will update the list.

It’s worth noting that while these programs do not require traditional dissertations, there will usually be a research project (usually known as a Capstone) through which you demonstrate what you have learned. Each program should detail the capstone experience requirements and the opportunities you will have while enrolled.

A growing number of universities allow you to complete your program as a full time, working professional from the comfort of your own home!

can i do phd in education without m ed

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How to Turn a Ph.D. Into a Nonacademic Career

By  Christopher Cornthwaite

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As my Ph.D. drew to a close in 2018, I had no plan. I had been living abroad with my spouse and our three children, completing a final fellowship that I was sure would make me a better candidate for academic positions.

Instead of heading off to a new post, our family moved back into my parents’ basement. It was an anticlimactic end to my academic career and, frankly, one of the hardest periods of my life. Many professors don’t appreciate how difficult leaving academe can be on their students who expected to be professors. It can be a devastating loss of purpose and identity.

From the darkness, we tried to put the pieces of our lives back together. We decided to move to the city of Ottawa, Canada’s capital, anticipating that it was probably the best option in the country for getting a nonacademic job with a Ph.D. (My spouse is a graphic designer and location independent.) I had been to the city once in my life and knew nobody there. We used the last of our cash to rent a small town house outside the city, with the pressure on me to find a job.

I’d never understood what I could do with my humanities Ph.D. outside academe. As I learned about the world of work, I was surprised by the options. I would email people with interesting careers or reach out to them on LinkedIn asking if I could talk to them. Sometimes I would connect through the networking app Shapr. Many of them were kind enough to take the time to talk to me.

All this networking led to a job running economic development projects for a think tank. It was a far cry from my religious studies Ph.D., but I watched my projects go through the Canadian news cycle and enter policy debates. My work was having an immediate and visible impact on my country. I eventually moved on from that job and worked for the government as a policy analyst, helping foreign countries explore and launch refugee programs.

When I left higher education, I imagined that things couldn't get much worse for my colleagues. Little did I know what the future had in store. These are especially difficult times -- many people have lost job or funding offers and need to explore what life outside academe looks like. Here’s the advice I have for building a career with your Ph.D.

Become the CEO of your life and career. I don’t know whom to attribute this idea to. I’ve heard versions of it from different sources but certainly something like it from Fordham University professor and author Leonard Cassuto in the academic space.

Personal agency is a powerful tool in building a career with any degree, but especially with a Ph.D. If you need to leave academe, you may not find anyone to tell you what to do or give you permission. (In fact, some departments or supervisors are actively hostile to alt-ac conversations.) You need to make the decision about what’s best for you and your life and can’t look to anyone else to make it for you. The onus is on you to learn how your skills apply in the marketplace and find somewhere you love applying them. So, stop waiting for permission and start building.

Recognize that networking is everything. Most Ph.D.s preparing to leave academe will start by working on their résumé and firing off job applications. For many, especially humanities grads like me, those applications disappear into a black hole. Why wouldn’t they? Unless your knowledge is in high demand -- as is the case for some STEM graduates -- employers can’t draw a line from your degree to being the employee they need.

The answer is networking. It’s the most transformational tool that Ph.D.s have at their disposal.

I know, you hate networking. Just about everybody does. But, unfortunately, the beautiful transformation that you are about to go through -- from grad student to career professional -- requires other people to help you make the transition. And if you don’t know anyone outside academe, it’s time to remedy that.

That doesn’t mean printing business cards and going to networking events. It just means contacting people who do things that intrigue you and asking them questions about their work, as well as for any advice they would have for someone in your position. Look for family and friends doing work that appeals to you. Check your alumni association. Ask your supervisor or committee if they know anyone doing interesting things outside academe and see if they’ll give you an introduction.

If you don’t have those options, you can do what I did and start messaging strangers on LinkedIn. (You’ll have the best chance of a response if you pick people it makes sense to connect to -- for example, those in your city, from your university or in a similar field.)

Be creative in meeting the people you need to meet. Recognize that each potential connection may lead to your career, and take the conversations seriously. This is far more valuable than sending résumés into the void. One of those people will inevitably change your life. They’ll tell you something you didn’t know or put in a good word for you somewhere that’s hiring. You just need one person to take a chance on you, and the rest will be history.

Create a brand for yourself. Developing a personal brand is especially vital for Ph.D.s. It may be an anathema for many students (and professors). But when paired with your degree, proper branding can transform you from looking like a grubby graduate student to looking like a leader.

Yes, Ph.D.s are perceived as leaders, even in the marketplace. But all too often, their command of their online presence and brand doesn't match the level of their skills. LinkedIn is a gift for Ph.D.s, an opportunity to present themselves to the world and control the narrative. If you’re not on there, I’d recommend creating a profile and sharing ideas. ( I wrote a guide on how to do that here .)

Your new goal is to be seen and taken seriously outside higher ed. Write op-eds. Engage with people on Twitter if you are comfortable doing that. Leverage the technology and media at your disposal to build your presence and reputation. The more positive visibility you have, the more employers will want to work with you.

Learn nonacademic language. Being in academe is a bit like living in a foreign country. Academics learn a language to talk about themselves and their skills. That language makes perfect sense inside the academy. But speaking it outside higher education can be the kiss of death in a job interview.

It's not to say that you can't have intelligent conversations outside academe. But overuse of jargon and buzzwords, or droning on about the complexities of your research, will mark you as an outsider in the nonacademic world.

Remember, an employer’s first question is “Can they solve X problem for me?” If you seem to only know academe, they might be uncertain of the answer to this.

Instead, try to learn the language of whatever workplace you are exploring. You can take note of key terms during your informational interviews or while looking at job postings. When I became a policy analyst, I had to learn a lot of new lingo that came with it. This included government-specific language, acronyms and other ways of wording things that helped me operate in that world.

Translate your CV into a résumé . Many people know this is necessary, especially in North America, where the résumé is the industry standard. While I don’t think it’s the most important thing, or the thing you should be spending most of your time on, we usually do need résumés at some point.

Translating your CV will require a brutal assessment about what actually fits in a résumé. I had to delete my publications in religious studies, totally irrelevant to my nonacademic work, and replace them with a single line: “Two peer-reviewed articles in top-tier journals.” Ditto my fellowships, which I replaced with, “Grant writing and proposals won over $200k in funding.”

In fact, after reading hundreds of Ph.D. CVs and résumés over the past year, I’ve realized that a lot of the best stuff is often in the overlooked “Service” section at the end of the CV. It’s here that students have led committees, launched projects, worked on teams creating an edited volume or conference, and just generally done the sort of things that make sense outside higher ed.

Be creative with your career. The question I am asked most often is “What can I do with a Ph.D. in X field?” While there are lists out there (some of the best are at The Versatile Ph.D. ), they should be thought of as starting rather than ending points.

Be creative about how you apply your skills and think about your career. Your Ph.D. will probably not fit into a single career box -- and that is great! Focus on topics that interest you, causes you are passionate about, issues that move you. That’s the way to build a great career with a Ph.D. and not simply drop into the first organization that will have you.

Oh, I know in the Ph.D. hierarchy of needs a paycheck can be the most important thing. I’ve been there. To pay the bills, you might need to take the first job offer you receive. But in the long run, you should develop a vision that goes beyond what you can do with your Ph.D. to what you want to do with your Ph.D. Because the sky is the limit.

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Can someone without a doctorate or an undergraduate degree do research?

Whether in history, math, computer science, physics, law or other sciences can someone without a doctorate or an undergraduate degree do research in any of them? I am an undergraduate student in math and I am interested in other sciences as well but I have found some difficulty getting my degree. I think my memory and problem-solving ability are not bad; I think they are okay. I thought of a path for myself to have at university, but eventually I figured out that I think I do not want it. I want to contribute in sciences.

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Wrzlprmft's user avatar

  • 11 It may also help to specify the problem. Is your concern about finding a paid, full-time research position? About publishing as a "layman"? About finding PIs who will let you contribute for free? But check our archives, most of these have already been asked-and-answered. –  cag51 ♦ Commented May 7, 2023 at 21:47
  • 1 Comments have been moved to chat . Many of the now-moved comments reiterate my comment above: it is unclear what you are asking. Normally I would close the question until the OP clarifies, but there are already five answers, so I'll leave that to the community. In any case: before posting a comment below this one, please review the purposes of comments . –  cag51 ♦ Commented May 9, 2023 at 2:42
  • What about money? –  yarchik Commented May 9, 2023 at 11:20
  • I think you actually meant being paid for doing it or occupying a professional position. –  stackoverblown Commented May 9, 2023 at 13:43

9 Answers 9

An undergraduate degree gives you background understanding in a lot of different areas. It's a foundation to build all your other knowledge on.

A PhD is a specialized degree in training for research. It includes learning both how to conduct research as well as training in the academic norms in your field, such as how to communicate your work with others. If you can't communicate your work, there's little point in doing it besides self-satisfaction.

While technically you may not need a particular degree to do research, research is exceptionally difficult. Many people with all the training still struggle. No one should expect themselves to be able to be successful without the training. I'm not saying there are no counterexamples, I'm saying that a few counterexamples out of billions of humans is not a very convincing argument.

I would focus on at least what is blocking you from getting an undergraduate degree. Without an undergraduate degree, your job prospects will be very limited. I don't think you should assume that the world on the other side is any easier.

Life-long academic jobs are extremely limited for people with degrees. For the vast majority, without a degree you aren't even approaching consideration.

Even so, there are certainly jobs where you can contribute to the overall production of research without advanced degrees. Many of these jobs come with low pay but they are absolutely critical for research to function. Animal care technicians are one example.

In industry, there may be more opportunities but a lack of degrees will still limit you. I worked in industry R&D for awhile and many of my coworkers did not have bachelors degrees (most at had at least a 2-year degree, though). This tended to limit their responsibilities, though: their job titles were typically "Technician" and they would work under the guidance of someone with at least a bachelors degree and some years experience. They would have input in conversations about research directions, but most of the job was following instructions and performing repetitive tasks. Certainly many of the people with those jobs were capable of doing more, especially as they gained experience, but it was difficult to advance without a degree. It was often fun work, though, and people could see directly the impact of their work in products used in health care, including their own family members.

In the US, some more technical jobs are available with a short 2-year training program. That would include histology (that is, preparing tissues on microscope slides for observation; most jobs are in hospitals doing diagnosis, but research positions exist as well), counseling and nursing jobs (again, these jobs are typically focused towards patient care, but these roles are needed in research administration as well), various mechanic jobs (relevant to maintenance of machines used in research), etc. Again, these are not the traditional "academic research" careers, but they are important ways to contribute.

All of my examples have biomedical research in mind, because that's the area I've worked in, but if you want to explore this or other areas, I would try to get in contact with people currently working in that area, and ask them what sorts of jobs people do with or without a degree in that field. That may help you find a target that suits you. I suspect you'll have more opportunities in areas where research is a group effort among many people, because those areas are often in need of extra hands, whereas in areas where research is primarily an individual effort, you would need to rely on your own personal credentials and history of research output to be funded, and you won't be able to obtain those without following the traditional education path.

Bryan Krause's user avatar

  • I don't think a 2-year nursing degree will get you very far in nursing/hospital research and administration. –  Azor Ahai -him- Commented May 11, 2023 at 3:32
  • @AzorAhai-him- Not into designing and running studies but there are lots of roles in research to be filled. –  Bryan Krause ♦ Commented May 11, 2023 at 3:43

The answer to the literal question you ask is "yes". If you have a good idea and follow it to a good conclusion and it's interesting enough to attract attention in the field then you have "done research".

In practical terms, without formal education in a field you will not be able to do "research": because you will not know what is known. Even knowing that, "memory and problem solving ability" may not be sufficient to address the unknowns and create new knowledge.

It's hard for me to imagine how you might carry out significant research without the basic knowledge you get at university.

You can always contribute as a citizen scientist ,

Ethan Bolker's user avatar

  • 8 There are other things one might do without a degree in the field, e.g. various citizen science projects, or becoming so expert in some niche that researchers ask you about that niche. An example of the latter is this AI paper: arxiv.org/abs/2009.04374 One of the authors, V. Kramnik, is a former world chess champion that presumably doesn't have a degree in AI. Of course, it's way easier to get a degree in AI than to become world chess champion ... –  Allure Commented May 8, 2023 at 9:46

This depends, to some extent, about what you think "do research" means.

If your meaning is that a person that "does research" holds a tenure-track faculty position where a certain amount of their time is for research endeavors, then I think there are some obstacles, at least one of them may be insurmountable. Many job descriptions demand an advanced degree -- a PhD or equivalent. Establishing equivalence to a PhD for someone with no advanced degree may well be a bridge too far for many university HR departments, who may simply refuse to hire you. Deans and Trustees may also have issues with the idea. Funding organizations may also need to buy in. IMO, the goal of establishing a career doing completely independent research funded by granting institutions will be difficult to reach without a PhD.

However, if "do research" means sort of a spare time side gig where you do some work and get it published, this is probably feasible.

To others "do research" might simply mean "earning a career while working in a lab" (as opposed to directing a lab). This is also approachable. There are certainly lab managers without advanced degrees that have a ton of responsibility -- but the ultimate authority about what research they get to do often belongs to someone else.

Further, a lot of surprising career directions can happen in industrial environments, where your job history and performance can eventually get you placed where you want to be, but you wouldn't necessarily be applying for such a position -- they just happen because you're the natural person to take on the role (because you've made yourself that person). This isn't a very predictable career path, though, it just happens sometimes.

Scott Seidman's user avatar

There have been examples, especially in Mathematics, of "amateurs" being consistently productive. But I cannot think of an example were the amateur was not accomplished in the field in which they made their living. The "amateur" scientist is usually working in a field where no extensive knowledge or equipment is needed, such as graph theory where some questions are very difficult, but an answer is not based on the work by others. Some scientific work is now crowd-sourced. Think for example of the bird population counters which are local bird-watchers or amateur astronomers who occasionally find a new comet.

If you have trouble getting a degree, you probably have no future as an "amateur" researcher, as you would be lacking the training and the knowledge, but sometimes you can still help with research.

Thomas Schwarz's user avatar

  • 1 Think for example of the bird population counters -- In light of some recent bad weather in my area (damaging storms 12-13 hours ago, and a tornado came within 1 km of where I live on March 31 ), a similar example that occurred to me is that of storm spotters . –  Dave L Renfro Commented May 8, 2023 at 11:15
  • 1 IIRC, Darwin was technically an amateur. –  Buffy Commented May 8, 2023 at 14:10
  • 18 @Buffy Darwin had an extensive university education and had close relationships with several research mentors before producing any useful research himself. While he did some of his work "on the side", his Beagle position for example was a paid scientific position. He also worked in a time when most of the well-known names in the field were "amateurs" of a sort, with personal wealth freeing them to scientific pursuits. So, perhaps, "technically", but with important caveats for anyone who thinks to mirror that path today. –  Bryan Krause ♦ Commented May 8, 2023 at 14:51
  • 1 @Buffy The backdrop of bioscience in Darwin's time was alchemy ... where people literally believed that life was spontaneously created. This was before Louis Pasteur's discovery of micro-organism. Any random modern child would know more biology than the general public back then if said child is taught to wash their hands and not eat dirt. –  Nelson Commented May 9, 2023 at 5:09
  • 1 @Nelson so then it is important that: you could, but all the low-hanging fruit has already been done, and it's not usually very useful to duplicate what someone else has already done –  user20574 Commented May 9, 2023 at 10:57

You mentioned law specifically. As a practicing lawyer (Nevada) that does some academic research on the side I can address that part directly.

Theoretically, the answer is yes, you can do research in law without needing any qualifications whatsoever. Arguably, the barriers to entry are in fact lower than many other fields since (despite the way it can seem sometimes), most academic legal researchers and most judges actually make some effort to write in a way that is broadly accessible.

However, as a practical matter, the answer is generally no. If you do not have some sort of relevant credentials, you will find it very difficult to get the attention of anyone in the legal academic research community.

Notably, I mean "some sort of relevant credentials" somewhat broadly in the legal field and does not necessarily mean a J.D.. Mike Masnick for instance is a writer and editor who has made something of an impact in legal academia. I have personally cited his work more than once in more than one law review journal article. However, while he does not hold a J.D., he does hold an MBA and while he absolutely does work that can be called legal research, I do not believe he has published in any traditional law review journals. But while it does not necessarily have to be a J.D., I suspect someone without some sort of serious credentials will find it very difficult to break into legal research in a meaningful way.

TimothyAWiseman's user avatar

I think having no undergraduate degree is really pushing it for STEMS. I don't know about history or law since they are softer fields but I do not imagine it is much different. Once you finish your undergraduate degree you realize how little it actually teaches you. It's not even the theoretical or practical fundamentals.

Even having an undergraduate degree would be like an elementary school student learning the four basic arithmetic operations. You cannot expect them put it to practical use by doing something like filling out tax forms, and research would be more like understanding and writing tax law.

I have only a Bachelors and assist in private research funded by a private patron. In this position, I have participated on research led by someone without a degree and led by someone with a PhD. Let me tell you, the difference is very pronounced. The PhD doesn't know everything they need; It is research after all, so you can imagine the gaps in knowledge and questionable approaches of the other. There's virtually no low hanging fruit remaining.

I want to contribute in sciences.

From my above real world example, it is clearly possible to do research without an undergraduate degree. You just need money.

Thus, the primary barrier to the "doing" part is how to get funding when you have no qualifications or history. I hope you're really charismatic and meet the right people, but I'm guessing you don't really want to be a snake oil salesman which is basically what you would be selling with no qualifications, experience, or history.

But merely doing is not the same as doing effectively , and actually contributing ? In my experience, I think you might be asking too much for too little without an undergraduate degree, or even without a masters. Or in the absence of a degree, without in-depth, long-term practical experience in what it is you are researching on.

DKNguyen's user avatar

Yes, science is all about falsifiability and peer review.

If you practice sound, reproducible science and can communicate it well, then that is legitimate research which is to be taken seriously.

Degrees technically don't matter.

csstudent1418's user avatar

  • 2 I mean, you can also be a tightrope walker with no training whatsoever, so long as you can walk across a thin wire suspended high in the air. The problem is that you can't get to that level without training. This seems like saying even someone who never practices can be a violin virtuoso, if they just play the right notes. –  Nuclear Hoagie Commented May 9, 2023 at 15:52
  • 1 @NuclearHoagie I have seen people do legitimate research without formal training simply by having a high IQ and arguing from first principles. –  csstudent1418 Commented May 10, 2023 at 12:33

To use a sports analogy, I guess if a kid in college started playing basketball for the first time and demonstrated that he had what it took to go to the NBA be being physically big and strong enough, and he was skilled enough, then yeah, he's going to The League. But I'm pretty sure this has never happened. College teams get the best high school talent, and the NBA the best college talent. In other words, your competitors have been playing literally since they were like 4 years old.

In the academic case, people have usually been in their fields in some stripe since they were 18 or in their early 20s. They've spent and spend all day thinking about their with (sometimes), almost always with the backing of a professional university and years of training to help them do research. They think about these things in the shower, while they walk their dogs, while they get their nails done, it is literally what makes some researchers so good at their craft, years of training and experience.

If you can compete with them without having a degree (if you wanna go for tenure), then go ahead, but it's super unlikely. Presumably other avenues of doing research exist, it just wouldn't appear in academic journals more often than not.

Jared Greathouse's user avatar

Yes. One does not need even expensive equipment. It is about the content you produce. In my university in Slovakia, every doctoral student is expected to publish one paper without any help from a supervisor. To lower the burden, one may publish in other languages than English.

Sursula's user avatar

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can i do phd in education without m ed

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M.Ed: Course, Admission, Entrance Exam, Fees, Syllabus, Career Scope, Salary, 2024

can i do phd in education without m ed

Waqar Niyazi

Content Curator

M Ed full form is Master of Education. It is a 2-year postgraduate program for education professionals seeking advanced knowledge in theory, practice, and specialized areas of the field. This program is particularly attractive to various groups of individuals, including educators or teachers, counsellors, guidance professionals, educational technologists, and researchers.

Aspiring candidates must possess a  Bachelor of Education  (B.Ed) degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized university for admission. Tuition fees for the M.Ed program typically start from INR 4,000 in government colleges and can reach up to INR 4,55,000 in private institutions. Top M Ed colleges include  Mumbai University , Punjab University and  Amity University .  See also :  MEd Admissions 2024

M Ed graduates have various career options in education, including roles like School Principal, Educational Consultant, College/University Professor, and Educational Researcher.  M Ed salary typically range from INR 6 LPA to INR 10 LPA.

Table of contents

M.Ed Highlights

What is m.ed.

  • Who should do M.Ed?
  • M Ed Entrance Exams

M.Ed Eligibility

  • M.Ed Admission Process

M Ed Syllabus

  • M.Ed Elective Subjects

M.Ed vs MA Education

  • M Ed Specializations

M.Ed Top Colleges

M.ed govt colleges.

  • M Ed Private Colleges

M.Ed Salary

Degree Name Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Duration 2 years (full-time)
Academic Level Postgraduate
Eligibility Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree or equivalent
Average Fee INR 45,000
Target Audience Administrators, educators, and professionals in the education field
Focus Enhancement of skills, knowledge, and understanding of educational practices and theories
Specialisations - Educational Psychology - Curriculum Development - Educational Research Methods - Special Education - Educational Leadership
Typical Career Paths - Teaching at higher levels - Educational administration and leadership - Curriculum development - Educational research
Prerequisites Bachelor's degree in Education or related field, often with teaching experience

M Ed is a postgraduate program that is awarded to individuals who have completed advanced studies in the field of education. This program is designed to provide an understanding of educational theory, practice, and research to educators and professionals in the education sector. It is a valuable degree Qualification for those seeking to enhance their teaching skills or engage in educational research.

Who should do MEd?

The M.Ed program is ideally suited for individuals who have a strong interest in the field of education and are seeking to enhance their comprehension of educational research, theory, and practice. This program is particularly attractive to various groups of individuals, including:

  • Those already engaged in teaching or educational roles seek to advance their knowledge and skills.
  • Professionals aspiring to leadership and administrative positions within educational institutions.
  • Individuals interested in the field of counselling within an educational context.
  • Individuals involved in creating effective instructional materials and strategies.
  • Those interested in influencing and analyzing educational policies.
  • Individuals working or intending to work in the specialized field of special education.
  • Those passionate about integrating technology into educational settings.
  • Individuals interested in research to contribute to the advancement of educational knowledge.

M.Ed Entrance Exams

Some institutes may require an entrance exam for MEd admission. It's important to note that not all universities have this requirement, and admission policies may change. Here are some entrance exam details for M Ed admission.

Entrance Exam Registration Exam Dates
February 2024 - March 2024 May 15 – May 31, 2024
To be Announced To be Announced
To be Announced To be Announced

See also:   MEd Admission 2024

The minimum eligibility requirements for MEd program are as follows:

  • Candidates must have completed a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized university.
  • Some M Ed programs may have minimum GPA requirements, ranging from 50% to 60% or higher, depending on the university and program.
  • Teaching experience.
  • Entrance exams (like NET/JRF/SET).
  • Work portfolio (for specific specializations).

M Ed Admission Process

Securing admission to M.Ed programs is possible through merit-based or entrance-based methods, as colleges typically organize their entrance exams. After the university releases applications for either the entrance test or the merit list, candidates can apply to their preferred college through these easy steps.

  • Visit the official website or admission office of the institute. Collect or download the admission form.
  • Receive login details on the registered mobile number and email.
  • Fill the application form and upload necessary documents following guidelines.
  • Preview the application for any changes before submission.
  • Make the required fee payment.
  • After successful submission, print the application form and fee receipt for future reference.

Here is the semester-wise syllabus for the MEd program.

1st Year
Semester 1 Semester 2
Educational Psychology Philosophical Foundations of Education
Historical and Political Perspectives of Education Sociology of Education
Educational Studies Curriculum Studies in Education
Research Methodology in Education Teacher Education
Human Rights and Education NA
2nd Year
Semester 3 Semester 4
Teaching Skills and Methods Educational administration and leadership
Pedagogy of teaching Manpower planning and finance
Technology in Teaching Learner Assessment
Models of Teaching Educational Measurement and Evaluation
Elective subjects Elective subjects

Check more:   M.Ed Syllabus

M.Ed Elective Subjects 

Here are some popular elective subjects that students can choose as part of the M Ed curriculum:

Subjects Details
Inclusive Education Significance and meaning of inclusive education.
Elementary Education Ways of managing elementary education and its fundamentals.
Guidance and Counseling Methods to guide and counsel students.
Teacher Education Concepts related to the value of teacher education.
Gender Studies The significance of gender studies and its role in education.
Planning, Management, and Financing of Education The importance of financing in education, planning, and management.
Distance Education and Open Learning Scope and meaning of distance education.
Educational Technology and ICT Latest technologies and developments introduced in the educational sector.
Advanced Curriculum Theory Advanced curriculum theories.
Curriculum Studies Studies related to designing curriculum.

The table below provides a comparison of MEd (Master of Education) and MA Education (Master of Arts in Education) across various aspects:

Aspect MEd MA Education
Degree Type Professional Degree Arts degree
Focus Practical application of education theories A blend of theory and practice in education
Specializations Often includes specializations (e.g., leadership, technology) May offer specializations, depending on the program
Research Component Commonly includes a research component (thesis or project) May or may not include a research component
Career Focus Geared towards educators, administrators, and education professionals Attracts individuals interested in educational theory and research
Admission Criteria Typically requires a bachelor's in education or a related field, teaching experience may be preferred May accept candidates with a bachelor's in various fields, teaching experience may or may not be required
Duration Usually a 2-year full-time program (varies) Typically a 1-2 year full-time program (varies)
Practical Experience May include practicum or internship components Practical experience may vary depending on the program
Thesis/Research Often includes a research-based component May or may not require a thesis or research project
Professional Goals Career advancement within education, leadership roles Suitable for various career paths within education, including research and academia
Global Variations Structure and requirements may vary globally Structure and requirements may vary globally

M.Ed Specializations

Here is a detailed structure of M Ed specializations, including the subjects covered and insights into each specialization's content.

Specialization Specialization Subjects Subject Details
Elementary level Specialization -Introduction to teaching.
-Innovative Practices-An Introduction.
-Innovative Teaching Practises
-Cognitive Skills Development
-Development of other psycho-social skills
-Development of coping skills
-Meaning, significance, principles, and characteristics of innovative practices.
-The nature of teaching, characteristics, principles, functions, and associated concepts.
-Classroom teaching and demographic process, Gibbs, Schon, Kolb, and other reflective models. -Understanding life skills education and its importance.
Secondary Level Specialisation -Major approaches to Educational Planning.
-Role of different agencies in Educational Planning.
-Theories of teaching.
-Models of Teaching.
-Teaching Strategies.
-Organization of teaching and evaluation.
-The relationship between education and economic development, characteristics of human capital, etc.
-The differences between planning and policies, strategic and operational planning, and connected concepts.
-The role of HRD, UGC, NGC, and other government agencies in planning education.

Here are some of the best  M Ed colleges in India , known for their outstanding education and enriching learning environments.

College Name Fees
INR 8,800
INR 45,200
INR 1,02,000
INR 7,400
INR 13,082
INR 9,200
INR 88,500
INR 1,35,000
INR 12,000
INR 2,04,000
INR 90,000
INR 8,540
INR 70,000
INR 78,800
INR 18,550

See also:   Distance Mode

Average annual fees for M Ed programs in govt colleges range from INR 4,000 to INR 1,50,000. Here is the list of top  Govt M.Ed colleges in India .

College Name Fees
INR 1,02,000
NA
INR 8,800
INR 7,400
INR 13,082
INR 9,200
INR 70,000
INR 78,800
INR 4,800
INR 12,000

M.Ed Private Colleges

Average annual fees for M.Ed programs in private colleges are typically higher than govt colleges. Here is the list of top  Private MEd colleges in India .

College Name Fees
INR 2,04,000
INR 43,000
INR 60,000
INR 35,000
NA
NA
INR 38,000
NA
INR 45,000
INR 60,000

See also:   M.Ed Abroad

M.Ed graduates can pursue a variety of career paths in the field of education. The following outlines prominent job roles and their corresponding salary ranges, offering insights into the professional opportunities available for M Ed graduates.

Job Title Description Salary Range
School Principal School principals are responsible for the overall administration and leadership of a school, including curriculum development and staff management. INR 6 - 20 LPA
Educational Consultant Educational consultants guide schools, institutions, or organizations on matters related to curriculum development. INR 4 - 12 LPA
College/University Professor Professors in colleges and universities teach courses, conduct research, and contribute to academic and professional development. INR 6 - 20 LPA
Educational Researcher Educational researchers conduct studies to improve educational practices and develop new teaching methods. INR 4 - 15 LPA
Guidance Counselor Guidance counselors work in schools to provide academic, career, and personal counseling to students. INR 3 - 8 LPA
Curriculum Developer Curriculum developers design and create educational materials, lesson plans, and instructional resources. INR 4 - 10 LPA
Special Education Teacher Special education teachers work with students who have diverse learning needs, including those with disabilities. INR 3 - 8 LPA

Ques. What is an M.Ed?

Ans.  M Ed stands for Master of Education. It is a postgraduate academic degree designed for individuals seeking advanced knowledge and skills in the field of education.

Ques. What is the duration of an M.Ed course?

Ans.  The duration of M Ed programs typically ranges from one to two years, depending on the university and whether it's a full-time or part-time program.

Ques. What are the eligibility criteria for an M.Ed?

Ans.  The minimum eligibility criteria for getting admission in the M.Ed Course include a bachelor's degree in education or a related field. Some programs and universities may require teaching experience.

Ques. Can non-education graduates pursue an M Ed?

Ans.  It depends on the curriculum of the university. Some universities accept non-education graduates for M.Ed programs, especially if they have relevant work experience. However, specific eligibility criteria may vary.

Ques. What specializations are available in M Ed?

Ans.  Common specializations include Educational Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction, Special Education, Educational Technology, and Counseling, among others.

Ques. What is the difference between an M.Ed and MA Education?

Ans.  M Ed is a professional degree focusing on practical applications of educational theories, while MA Education is an arts degree with a broader emphasis on theory and research.

Ques. Is the GRE or any other entrance exam required for M.Ed admissions?

Ans.  Some universities may require the GRE or a specific entrance exam, while others may rely on academic qualifications and interviews.

Ques. What is the structure of the M.Ed curriculum?

Ans.  The course structure of the M Ed Curriculum includes core courses, specialization courses, research methodology, and often a thesis or research project.

Ques. Is practical experience included in the M.Ed program?

Ans.  Practical Experience is considered as an additional point in M Ed admission programs. Many M.Ed programs include practical components such as internships, teaching practice, or fieldwork to provide hands-on experience.

Ques. What career opportunities are available after completing an M Ed?

Ans.  Graduates can pursue roles such as teachers, school administrators, educational consultants, curriculum developers, researchers, and more.

Ques. Are there online M.Ed programs available?

Ans.  Yes, many universities offer online M.Ed programs to accommodate working professionals and those who prefer distance learning.

Ques. How is the M.Ed thesis or research project conducted?

Ans.  The thesis or research project involves conducting original research, often under the guidance of a faculty advisor, and contributing to the field of education.

Ques. Can M.Ed graduates pursue a Ph.D. in Education?

Ans.  Yes, M Ed graduates can pursue a Ph.D. in Education, allowing them to engage in advanced research and contribute to the academic field.

Ques. What is the average salary for M.Ed graduates?

Ans.  Salaries vary based on factors such as job role, experience, location, and the sector. Generally, M.Ed graduates can earn competitive salaries in education-related positions.

Ques. Can M.Ed graduates work internationally?

Ans.  Yes, M Ed graduates with relevant qualifications and experience may find opportunities to work in international schools, organizations, or research institutions.

Ques. Are there scholarships available for M.Ed programs?

Ans.  Many universities offer scholarships and financial aid for M.Ed students. Applicants should check with the respective institutions for available options.

Ques. How does accreditation affect the choice of M Ed programs?

Ans.  Accredited programs ensure quality education and may be preferred by employers. It's advisable to choose M Ed programs accredited by recognized education bodies.

Most Popular Tags

72 Reviews found

"A Transformative Journey:My M.Ed experience at Pondicherry University"

Our faculty member is an exceptional educator, renowned fortheir expertise, passion and dedication to teaching. They possess a unique ability to simplify complex concepts, making them accessible to students of all learning styles. Their door is always open, offering guidance and support beyond the classroom. They foster a inclusive and engaging learning environment, encouraging critical thinking , creativity and growth . Their enthusiasm is contagious inspiring students to explore new ideas and reach their full potential . With their mentorship , students feel empowered to succeed, both academically and professionally.

Course Curriculum Overview

I would rate the M.Ed course curriculum as highly relevant and comprehensive , with a score of 9 out of 10, as effectively adresses current educational needs and challenges, aligns with academic standards and covers a broad range of topics. Although it could be improved by incorporating more contemporary issues and specialisation.

ADVAITA review

Campus life.

There are many programs organized by department and university, like as kabad se jugad, alumni function, freser part, farewell party, invoation, rangoli comptition, art competition, poem competition etc Availability of books and journal are very less in department, and in Central Library also. In term of technology university is improving themself Sport event also irfanise in department level and university level boath There are many influencee in social media who is connected with university of allahabad like as abhinav dwivedi (you tube) and many more

As I mention previously that every teaching staff is too suporting and helping in many ways neverthless they provide you mentorship programms in education department, they provide assistant help, you can neet directly in professor room, teacher staff has higly Qualified, some professor are came from delhi University, teacher student ratio is less but still it is comfortable to all, I always interact with teacher twice in a day.

Brief introduction of MJPRU

Loan/ scholarship provisions.

Total tution fee M.Ed. 47800 first year 30000 and second year 17800. Other fee security money 800, examination fee 5000 and hostel fee 12400 yearly and mess charges 2200 per month Scholarship are providing by government for Sc st OBC Gen category students.

Course and curriculum are based on NEP 2020 based. Course are designed for work experience and job oriented. Curriculum is different from college curriculum. Exam formate semester type including internal, other field experience

Wonderful experience

This university conducts seminars, alumni meetings, debate competitions, and many more competitions at the national level. Cultural festivals are also organized like the Holi celebration, Pongal, Ugadi, etc. There are a lot of books and journals in the library, we can access them easily. Smart classrooms are available in respective departments. There are so many clubs like dance club, science club, maths club, etc And main beauty of the campus are very green and freedom of entry and exit anytime. Healthcare facilities are provided 24hrs There is ample opportunity for sports like cricket, badminton, basketball, volleyball, football, etc. Yes, there are some social groups like ABVB, PUSDC, and many more.

Tuition fees for a year program are approx 35000 and hostel fees 1000rs yearly and mess fees 12000 per semester. The complete cost of education is around 90000 including mess facilities. Here scholarship is available for the first three best performances in the class. Campus placement also gives the opportunity.

A Story about my college days

Spandan, tech smart, and Sportica are the annual fest of the college that held annually. There are 15000+ books available in the library. auditorium and lecture hall complex are available there. 400-meter race, long jump, high jump, cricket tournament, handball and many more sports activity yes some students sun social groups along with their studies.

I love to read English that is the reason I chose this course.i have prepared for this from my own notes and the YouTube channel is also useful for us. The course should not more lengthy so that we can cover and understand it easily in the selected time period..The frequency and timing of exams in my perspective are easy to moderate.

PROFESSIONAL COURSE IN HNBGU

The curriculum is not that much modified. It is based on old education policy which is very wrong to teach education students old policy knowledge. There is lack of smart claases and the ICT is just taught in books only . No medium of technology is updated. Faculty is good but they didn't take classes because of documentation and paper work load.

The fee structure is very minimal in comparison with other central universities. State scholarships are open for students. No financial assistance is given to students and there is very very less amount of campus placement in professional courses.

The capus is quite big but there are some restriction in the college. There is annual fest held every year. There are libraries where you find the books and sports are also conducted by college. there are few groups in M.Edu but overall all groups are run by students.

The fees structure is not much high. The fees for M.Edu is about 45k for a year. There are scholarships also provided by govt. Which can be get by the help of college. My aim is not get campus placement.

My College Days Experience at MANUI

In the year 2021, I completed My B.ED from the same University and My Aim was already decided to become an assistant professor of Education I have to do a Master of Education that's why I did. In my college, I think it is 150 to 13 because in the college there is 2 Unit B.Ed. & 1 Unit M.Ed. seats are allowed by NCTE norms, and In the College, there are 2 Professors 2 Associate Professors & 22 Assistant Professors. Term Exam is definitely on time as Calendar of Every Year Program wise is issued by University and it is followed by the college accordingly. If You study Properly and attend class regularly you can pass the term exam easily because here exams are malpractice free don't dare to cheat in the exams because rules are strict here.

The University is absolutely attractive and the hostel facility, literary club gym, and Extracurricular activities programs were subsequently conducted in the university headquarters. It is enjoyable. Libraries are there, have Big Hall for study with an AC facility and many more expensive ones and the book you have for your courses are available in the library. Extracurricular Activities are Conducted by the Union Leader. Required facilities for the course are available in the classroom like a smart board projector and more. MANUU STUDENT UNION is on Facebook.

Jrrsu is too good

Becouse my dream is Sanskrit teacher. Student ratio around 700 somthings. Teaching methods is verry important is you clear reet exam den clear 1st.2nd.3rd gred exan any chose Bed deploma for reet pass dend teachers exam colified . Exam tyming is 2 hours exam is verry esy to paper is to esy

There should be a verry good invironment in the school and there should be a strong arrangment for the students play. There should be a verry good arrangment in the class rooms. The annual fastival is celiberated in the school in the January month.

College Life: Cherish Forever

ANUGOONJ is the annual college fest which is organized every year in the month of February. The campus holds various activities every month. There is a library on the campus that is accessible to students with a wide variety of books. The classrooms are good in condition with the presence of working CCTV, projector, and AC. An annual sports meet is organized at the university every year. There are a lot of exciting clubs in the university for students with varied interests.

I want to become teacher educator. Hence, I chose M.Ed for my post-graduation. The faculty: student ratio is 50:6. The teachers are well qualified holding Phd degrees. The classes are very interactive. Both Lecture method and ICT tools are used to conduct leactures. There are 4 minors and 4 semester exams along with Dissertation. The exams are of good level checking the understanding and application of the students.

A best scencrio

The annual fest of DAVV is one in which all the departments participate. The books in the library are accessible as much as uh can read. The classroom amenities are perfect. Not that many sports facilities. We give all our time to the dissertation.

I want to go into principalship that's why I opted for this course. The student ratio is 1:20. The faculty qualification is Ph.D. and more than 10 years of experience. The exam is timely bases and mid sem are also there.

My Review of AMS College

This course consists of Theory Examinations, Dissertions, Field Based Assignments/ Projects, Seminars and Internal Assessment tests which help students Improve their Knowledge.I Choose this course because I wanted to teach in Colleges. Every Student must do the Dissertion Work Individually under the supervision of a lecturer and score 50% marks. There are many subjects in this course like Philosophy of Education, Pychology of learning and Development etc. The Faculty of AMS college is highly Experienced and have good communication skills.

The fees for M.Ed in AMS college of Education is approximately Rs 30000/- per year and there are some other fees you need to pay before Semester Exams like Exam fee and Project fee etc. The cost to study in this college is very less compared to other M.Ed colleges. Also there is an opportunity for students belonging to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe as well as Minority students for scholarship. You need to have Original Caste certifiate and Income Certificate for verification otherwide scholarship is not sanctioned.

Best Course for Professional Educator.

I selected this course because it is in the teaching field, which I enjoyed a lot. The faculty was amazing and helpful and the ratio was 1:45, although they divides students among 2 or 4 groups according to the requirement. Faculty was qualified from reputed colleges and some were Doctorate in their field. It is an annual mode course where you only have exams once a year as there is a lot of fieldwork and fun visits and trips planned.

Life at the campus was amazing as B.El.Ed students stay From 8:30 AM TO 5:00 PM, and annual fees, sports day and Mata Sundari Day use to celebrate. The library was fully Air Conditioned and had access to all material required. For more materials and books B.El.Ed scholar can reach to DOE library.

The Future Education Destination

The post matric scholarship,the higher education grant scholarship,the building and construction workers scholarship,The Kalia scholarship etc.are provided to the students.The junior research fellowship certificate is also provided by ugc for further studies.

The term exams occurs in every six months that we call the semester exams..in between them internal assessments are also carried out.Internship programs with other practical activities are carried out under supervision of concerned guides smoothly.

Acquire M.Ed course in TNTEU

M.Ed is a professional course for a teaching job in higher-level education. Candidates become acquainted with different types of subjects like the Historical and Political perspective of Education, Educational Psychology, the Sociological Foundation of Education, Comparative Education, etc. In semester 4, there are only elective subjects among those Distance education and Open learning, Curriculum studies, Teacher Education, etc are noteworthy. Elective subjects depend on the subject taken in the B.Ed course.

Placement Experience

There is a separate placement cell in the university that offers research opportunities to the students. The average salary was around Rs 2.5 lacs per annum. In the M.Ed course, 8 weeks fieldwork is mandatory for students in different teaching organizations.

M.Ed in Rayalaseema University

Renowned companies like Tata Consultancy Services, Water Health, Wipro, Tech Mahindra, HDFC banks etc bring quite good job offers for the students. The highest package is Rs 48,000 per month for the PG commerce students and the lowest package is Rs 24,000 per month also for them. The institute organises programs like personality development program, mock aptitude test, mock interview for the placement of the students.

M.Ed course deals with the study of new methods of teaching and educational research. It is specified as practitioner's degree for students who want to work in the professional field of teaching. Language education, Planning and financing of education at secondary and senior secondary level, sociological foundation of education etc are the subjects with which the students become acquainted.

Student's Review On Regional Institute Of Education - [RIE], Bhubaneswar

NCERT has four RIE in India, one of constituent its RIE Bhubaneswar which represent eastern region ( Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, North Eastern states, Andaman Nicobar ). NCERT is the educational wing of Indian and RIE's are supplementing it. Rie bhubaneswar is produces the future teacher, teacher educator as well as researchers in field of education. RIE Bhubaneswar has different courses like - Integrated 4 year B.Sc.B.ed / B.A B.ed / 2 year B.ed / 2 year M.ed / Counselling and Guidance course etc. Rie Bhubaneswar has various department like DESM / EDUCATION / SPORTS etc.This institute focuses in overall development of students in physically, mentally, psychologically etc. It provides equal opportunity to participate in various types of cocurricular activities. It is one of the best platform to learn.

Course is 4 year integrated which saves almost one year when we chooses to pursue any traduction course and 2 year b.ed programme. Curriculum focuses on all round development of children provides equality of opportunity in various field like debate,speech,dance, drama, etc apart from academics and have an internship programme in school institutes as well as dristrict or state educational administartion department.There are no industrial exposure. Each and every faculty is good, helpful.

Akshita's Review On Indira Gandhi National Open University - [IGNOU], New Delhi

College events.

It's a world level college having branches in and outside India. It is in the developed as well as in the rural areas so that everyone, whatever the circumstances are, should be educated. It is based on the theory that everyone should be educated so people who cannot study in regular colleges for whatever reason and are willing to study further can complete their studies with the support of IGNOU. Though it Is an open university, it has an equal reputation in the market as of regular reputed universities and can beat their standards.

A vast number of courses are provided here at affordable costs. The faculty is very supportive and understanding. Regular classes are held here. Subject guides are there to help the students how to study their courses. Different study materials i.e. books are provided to the students that is the biggest benefit of the students studying in IGNOU. The subjects are regularly discussed in the classes in such a way that students actively take parts in studies.

Student's Review On Indira Gandhi National Open University - [IGNOU], New Delhi

Faculty members in our college were qualified and helpful. One can take the benefit of it. They also help in preparing our assignment of the concerned course. After M.Com, students can prepare for the NET exam and becomes the assistant professor. Even they can study further and complete a Ph.D.

The facilities and infrastructure available in our college are great. The courses available are allotted with different classrooms. The college does not provide hostel facilities as students learning here are not regular, but students just want to complete their courses.

Jyoti Prakask's Review On Gauhati University - [GU], Guwahati

Extracurriculars activities are done in this University in very different forms, students have to take very different and active participation in these events, organized in a very proper way as well as the programmes are nice

This college gives me that kind of vibes which I like the most beautiful campus,cool and calm, environment is good, heard about campus long time back from friends and it's also dream to study in this University.

Master of Education [M.Ed] (English)

Master of education [m.ed] (special education), master of business administration [mba], master of commerce [m.com], master of education [m.ed] colleges in india.

TISS Tata Institute of Social Sciences

TISS Tata Institute of Social Sciences

Amity University

Amity University

Jamia Millia Islamia University-[JMI]

Jamia Millia Islamia University-[JMI]

Banaras Hindu University - [BHU]

Banaras Hindu University - [BHU]

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University - [GGSIPU]

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University - [GGSIPU]

Panjab University - [PU]

Panjab University - [PU]

Acharya Nagarjuna University - [ANU]

Acharya Nagarjuna University - [ANU]

Aligarh Muslim University - [AMU]

Aligarh Muslim University - [AMU]

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IMAGES

  1. PhD without Master's Degree? Exploring Direct PhD in 2024

    can i do phd in education without m ed

  2. Can I do a PhD without a Masters?

    can i do phd in education without m ed

  3. Considering a PhD in Education? Here’s What You Need to Know

    can i do phd in education without m ed

  4. Phd Vs Md Differences Explained Discoverphds

    can i do phd in education without m ed

  5. EdD vs. PhD in Education: What is the Difference? Phd In Education

    can i do phd in education without m ed

  6. How Long Does It Take To Get A PhD In Educational Leadership

    can i do phd in education without m ed

COMMENTS

  1. All You Need to Know if you are considering a PhD in Education

    A Ph.D. in education takes four years to complete, while an EdD takes two. A Ph.D. requires doing a dissertation, while an EdD doesn't. A Ph.D. focuses on developing new research. EdD students, on the other hand, use existing research to guide decisions about issues within their area of study. A Ph.D. requires taking 90 credits, whereas an ...

  2. Ph.D in Education without a M.Ed? : r/CanadianTeachers

    I have BA honours in Law and Politics, am finishing my B.Ed at the P/J level in April, and have a Master's in Politics. I'd like to get my Ph.D in Educational Policy so I was wondering if having a Master's degree (and a B.Ed) would be enough to apply for Ph.D programs since it's in a "relevant field", or if I would need to get my M.Ed first.

  3. EdD vs. PhD in Education: Choosing the Right Program

    Broadly speaking, the EdD vs PhD comparison comes down to only a few core concepts. The EdD is focused on individuals who want to apply their knowledge to practice, while the PhD is more focused on research. However, learning more about the distinction between the two can help you find the program that most closely aligns with your goals.

  4. PhD vs. EdD in Education: Nine expert tips to help you choose [with

    3. Explore career options with a PhD in Education. Earning your PhD in education will make you a more desirable candidate for a range of research-oriented positions. Your ability to evaluate research and make recommendations will be a valuable skill to many organizations. Many people with PhD in education degrees secure jobs as: University ...

  5. Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) Admission Requirements

    Requirements for an Ed.D. Application. Master's Degree: Ed.D. programs require a master's degree for admission. Candidates with an Ed.S. also meet the requirement. Most programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA. Professional Experience: Ed.D. programs often expect professional experience.

  6. How to Tell If I Want an EdD or a PhD in Education?

    To begin, the coursework offered at the beginning of both programs is practically identical. "The curricula for the PhD degree in Education and the EdD degree are both designed to give the candidate a broad background of the topics of interest in a particular area, such as early childhood or special education. It's a broad-brush approach ...

  7. Doctor of Philosophy in Education

    The Harvard Ph.D. in Education trains cutting-edge researchers who work across disciplines to generate knowledge and translate discoveries into transformative policy and practice. Offered jointly by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the Ph.D. in Education provides ...

  8. Ph.D. Higher Education

    The Ph.D. in Higher Education Program prepares higher education researchers who will take their scholarship, knowledge, and research skills into a range of higher education settings such as universities and colleges, state governing and coordinating boards, federal government, independent higher education organizations, consulting groups, not-for-profit organizations, and foundations.

  9. Guide to Online Doctorate in Education 2024

    With a doctorate in education, you can make a meaningful impact in various settings. Common examples include schools, colleges, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and research institutions. According to April 2024 Payscale data, the average base salary for someone with a doctorate in education is $88,000.

  10. M.Ed or Ph.D after B.Ed: Which is Better

    Eligibility criteria for M.Ed. For pursuing M.Ed students, should compulsorily have a B.Ed degree. M.Ed course duration. M.Ed is a two years postgraduate degree divided into four semesters each of six months. Motive/scope of M.Ed. Master of education has a good scope in the education industry. It offers highly well-paying jobs.

  11. Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD? What You Need to Know

    The short answer is that it is possible to do a PhD without a Masters. The long answer is that it is dependent on your personal experience, your subject area, the duration of your PhD programme and the location, as requirements can vary by country. It's technically possible in any discipline, but much more common in STEM or vocational subjects.

  12. Can You Get a PhD without a Master's? Yes, but Here's Why You Shouldn't

    And finally, doing a Master's at the same university where you want to pursue your PhD is one of the smartest moves you can make. It shows loyalty to the university and gets you the right contacts among teachers. It's almost a sure pass to a doctoral programme. 3. A Master's is the only way to a PhD in a new field.

  13. What Can You Do With an Education Doctorate? (With 10 Jobs)

    5. Education professor. National average salary: $61,014 per year Primary duties: An education professor works in a higher education institution teaching education theory to students at the college or university level. They create semester-long lesson plans, assign projects, design exams and assign and grade papers.

  14. Online Educational Administration Doctorate

    The online E ducational Administration EdD offers a unique learning experience with synchronous classes. These live, online classes allow you to meet with your instructor and classmates each week and learn with a community of your peers. Your classes will meet at the same time and on the same day each week, typically night classes.

  15. Can You Get a PhD without a Masters?

    Yes, it's possible to get a PhD without first having a Masters degree. The conventional route for someone who earns a PhD is to pursue a Bachelor's degree, followed by a Masters degree and then a PhD. However, several students opt to bypass a Master's degree by enrolling onto a doctoral programme as soon as they complete their ...

  16. Best Online Ed.D. In Curriculum And Instruction Programs Of 2024

    Ph.D. programs are more commonly funded than Ed.D.s, but some schools do help fund Ed.D. programs. To help cover the cost of your doctoral program, start by filling out a FAFSA®.

  17. What Can I Do with a PhD in Education?

    Careers in Education Administration. If you earn a Ph.D. in Education, you can also pursue leadership positions in education administration. As an education administrator, your duties might include developing policies, training teachers and setting educational goals. You could serve as a school principal or superintendent at the elementary or ...

  18. Doctorate in Special Education Program Guide

    A doctorate in special education typically takes 3-5 years to complete, depending on whether you earn an Ed.D. or a Ph.D. Many students need more time to earn a Ph.D. because of the dissertation requirement. If you are learning part-time or working while in school, it may take more than five years to graduate.

  19. Can PhDs legitimately claim to be doctors?

    This is possibly country dependent, but for Germany this is utterly wrong: "many also think that the MD is much more difficult to attain than a PhD" - Medical doctors get the equivalent of a "paper doctorate" thrown after them so they can be called "doctor" as part of their degree, while "real doctors" have to start a doctorate and carry out rigorous research to obtain the degree/academic title.

  20. 2024 Best Doctorate Degrees Online [No Dissertation Required]

    2. Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) If you're an education professional seeking to advance your career and make a larger impact, an online Doctor of Education (EdD) could be your next step. Many EdD programs now offer a no dissertation path, typically replacing it with a capstone project.

  21. How to Turn a Ph.D. Into a Nonacademic Career

    Oh, I know in the Ph.D. hierarchy of needs a paycheck can be the most important thing. I've been there. To pay the bills, you might need to take the first job offer you receive. But in the long run, you should develop a vision that goes beyond what you can do with your Ph.D. to what you want to do with your Ph.D. Because the sky is the limit.

  22. Can someone without a doctorate or an undergraduate degree do research?

    The PhD doesn't know everything they need; It is research after all, so you can imagine the gaps in knowledge and questionable approaches of the other. There's virtually no low hanging fruit remaining. I want to contribute in sciences. From my above real world example, it is clearly possible to do research without an undergraduate degree. You ...

  23. M.Ed: Course, Admission, Entrance Exam, Fees, Syllabus, Career Scope

    M Ed full form is Master of Education. It is a 2-year postgraduate program for education professionals seeking advanced knowledge in theory, practice, and specialized areas of the field. This program is particularly attractive to various groups of individuals, including educators or teachers, counsellors, guidance professionals, educational ...

  24. Do You Need a Master's to Pursue a PsyD?

    Additionally, acceptance rates, type of doctoral project, and funding sources for PsyD and PhD programs tend to differ. Can You Pursue a PsyD Without a Master's Degree? Whether it is necessary to hold a master's degree to apply to a PsyD program varies by institution. Some schools require only a bachelor's degree.