Rankings

20 Best Grad Schools with Online Doctorate in Higher Education

Written by Grad School Center Team We are a passionate team of experienced educators and advisors at GradSchoolCenter.com, dedicated to guiding students through their graduate education journey. Our experts, with advanced degrees across various disciplines, offer personalized advice, up-to-date program information, and practical insights into application processes.

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: July 18, 2024, Reading time: 28 minutes

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In a recent study conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there are about 19.4 million students attending postsecondary institutions in the United States alone.

Along with the recent increase in student enrollment, it’s only logical why colleges and universities seek help from competent administrators. One way to fill in the gap for postsecondary leaders and administrators is to pursue an online Doctoral Program in Higher Education concentration. 


Additional Information:


Overview

Doctorates with a concentration in Higher Education come in two forms: the research-based Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and the application-based Doctor of Education (EdD). While these two programs have different approaches and focuses, they both have the same goal: to educate students on how to run colleges and universities efficiently.

The main topics of these doctoral programs include the administration, policy, management, and curriculum development of postsecondary institutions, such as community colleges, universities, and other tertiary education organizations. 

Quick audio summary:


Methodology

We put together the best online doctoral programs from the country’s most reputable universities! Each online Doctorate in Higher Education on the list meets the following criteria:

Please check out our Methodology for more details on our ranking process.

Grad School Center is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

20 Best Online Doctoral Programs in Higher Education

Indiana State University

Indiana State University

PhD in Educational Administration: Higher Education Leadership

Indiana State University, accredited by the HLC, offers an online PhD in Educational Administration with a Higher Education Leadership concentration.

This online higher education program was built to provide an intensive curriculum that prepares graduates for administrative leadership positions in various educational institutions. The program is a scholar/practitioner philosophy-based degree that helps students study twenty-first-century higher learning institutions.

ISU’s online higher educational leadership program’s doctoral students undergo coursework integrating class-based, practicum-based, and individual learning experiences. In addition to online classes, students must fulfill a two-semester supervised internship program requirement where they’ll study the main functional areas of higher education.

Advanced core courses of the concentration include Advanced Leadership Theory, Governance and External Relations, Statistical Inference, and Academic Leadership in Higher Education.

Applicants must have a master’s degree from an accredited higher education institution with a GPA equivalent to a B+ or above. Additional admission requirements include three letters of recommendation, an official transcript, and a detailed Statement of Goals. Graduate students who satisfy eligibility conditions can be eligible for federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans.


University of North Georgia

University of North Georgia

EdD in Higher Education Leadership & Practice

The EdD in Higher Education Leadership and Practice at the University of Georgia is among the top online higher education programs, thanks to its dedicated faculty and rigorous curriculum. Acknowledged by the SACSCOC, this online EdD program is one of the most customizable doctorates.

The program is a cross-disciplinary doctorate dedicated to advancing students’ knowledge in educational equity, theory and policy with practice, scholarly community, and challenges in the norms in higher education.

Historical and Contemporary Issues in Higher Education, Social Justice Issues and Policies in Higher Education, Globalization and Higher Education, and High Impact Teaching in Higher Education are some of the program’s higher education content.

Students will receive guidance from faculty members and advisors in deciding on a topic for their research project, which will start during the program’s first semester. Students are encouraged to use a quantitative or qualitative approach to complete their research projects and dissertation defense.

A master’s from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 is required to gain competency in the program. Additional requirements include professional letters, resumes, writing samples, and personal statements.


Colorado State University

Colorado State University - Online

PhD in Higher Education Leadership

Colorado State University’s online Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership degree program, which takes at least 5 years to complete, helps students gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by higher education institutions.

The most common issues discussed in the program include equity and justice. The program moves in cohorts, meaning students will enroll and graduate with the same group. While classes are usually held online, students must meet on-campus at least once a year for a face-to-face gathering to network with peers, faculty, and alumni.

Students gather knowledge from recognized teachers and skilled higher education administration specialists. Leadership Development, Higher Education Law, Critical Theory, Educational Equity and Praxis, and Education Policy Analysis are some of the program’s required coursework. Graduates will be prepared to work for leadership roles in higher education administration, housing and auxiliary services, and academic support leadership.

A master’s from a properly accredited institution is necessary for enrollment. This higher education doctoral program is one of the best graduate programs for out-of-state students, thanks to its flat-rate tuition fee. Colorado State University is permitted by the HLC to grant college degrees.


Liberty University

Liberty University

PhD in Higher Education Administration

Liberty University’s online PhD in Higher Education Administration, accredited by the SACSCOC, is a 100% online degree program designed to be completed in 3 years through accelerated 8-week courses. This doctoral program is also considered one of the best, thanks to its generous transfer credits. Students can transfer up to 50% of the required credit hours and graduate earlier. It’s also one of the most customizable higher education programs online.

Students can specialize in Assessment and Evaluation, Educational Leadership, or Student Affairs. Regardless of specialization, students will study College and University Administration, Assessment and Accreditation, Economic Aspects of Higher Education, Historical Perspectives of Higher Education, and Teaching the College Student.

The program’s curriculum helps students understand the various leadership styles used in different educational contexts and gain a sophisticated grasp of how to support student achievement. The PhD program also offers educational law, administration, and collegiate teaching coursework.

A 3.0 minimum GPA is required to gain admission to the program. Students who are still enrolled in a master’s degree can still submit their application as long as they’re in their final term and are in good standing with their GPAs.


Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University

PhD in Higher Education

The PhD in Higher Education at Texas Tech University is a 60-credit hour doctoral program that allows students to transfer up to 30 credits from their graduate degree program. The program is delivered in a hybrid learning format, requiring students to complete a combination of intensive online and on-campus meetings.

Ran in cohorts, students can earn the degree in 3 to 4 years, depending on how well they perform on their qualifying exam and dissertation. Students must follow the program’s course sequencing, consisting of 9 credits during the summer, 6 in the fall, and 6 in the spring.

Higher education core courses include Access and Equity in American Higher Education, Funding Higher Education, College Student Development, and Policy Analysis and Issues in Higher Education. Students must attend the required one-year residency.

As soon as students are left with few credits to complete all coursework, they will be appointed a Dissertation Chairperson to evaluate their qualifying examination and a second Dissertation Committee member to help them get started with their dissertation project.

Applicants must hold a graduate-level degree from an accredited college or university. The SACSCOC approves TTU.


Andrews University

Andrews University

EdD in Higher Education Administration

Andrews University, an HLC-accredited institution, offers a fast-paced EdD in Higher Education Administration program designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. While some of the program’s coursework is done online, students must visit the campus at least once monthly for weekend classes. Online students learn from a community of faculty with real-world experiences and have established names for themselves as highly regarded scholars and scholar-practitioners of the field.

The program’s courses include Administration and Organization of Higher Education, College and University Curriculum, Policy Analysis in Higher Education, and Theories for Research on College Students. As an elective, students can opt for a one-on-one consultation with their academic advisor to seek advice and guidance for their dissertation process and comprehensive examination. Full-time students can complete the program in five years.

To qualify for the doctorate program, you must have an accredited graduate-level degree, stellar letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and a goal statement. This online doctoral program encourages students to participate in a collaborative learning environment, allowing them to forge close bonds with professors and other doctoral candidates.


University of Mississippi

University of Mississippi - School of Education Higher Education

EdD in Higher Education

SACSCOC-accredited University of Mississippi offers a practitioner-driven EdD in Higher Education program delivered online part-time, giving students the chance to earn a degree with a full-time job. The degree involves successfully defending a dissertation-in-practice and completing 48 semester hours of post-master’s study. Thanks to the program’s accelerated course format, students can complete the coursework in 3 years, excluding time for dissertation.

Through core and research courses, such as Program Planning & Assessment in Higher Education and Leadership and Organization Theory for Higher Education Practice, students will develop knowledge to study and use assessment and evaluation methods.

The Carnegie Project acknowledges the research component of the program on the Education Doctorate (CPED). Students are rigorously trained to self-author career plans to assist colleges, universities, and non-profit organizations in enhancing equity and exhibiting responsibility.

This doctoral degree program requires applicants to submit GRE scores (the preferred score is 4.0 or higher on the Analytical Writing portion), official bachelor’s and master’s degree transcripts with strong GPAs, and a clear statement of purpose. Applicants must have at least three years of work experience in education.


Maryville University

Maryville University

EdD in Higher Education Leadership

Maryville University offers an online EdD in Higher Education accredited by the HLC that helps students develop administrative and leadership skills to face higher education institutions’ current and future challenges.

The program provides students with full support from the faculty to help them successfully employ leadership theory in practical settings. The curriculum aims to give students a modern perspective of administrator-student interaction, allowing them to devise a plan to affect higher education positively.

Students enrolled in a year-round study plan can complete all the required coursework in 32 months. The program requires online students to complete a residency; they can choose to attend virtually or on campus. Unlike most EdD programs, this online doctorate allows students to complete coursework and their dissertations simultaneously, allowing them to apply knowledge as they learn.

The doctoral program requires applicants to have a minimum 3.0 GPA on all their graduate coursework, three years of higher education professional experience, three letters of recommendation, and a personal essay outlining relevant personal and professional experiences.


St. Edward’s University

St. Edward’s University

EdD in Leadership and Higher Education

Prospective doctoral students seeking an accelerated doctorate can consider St. Edward’s University’s online EdD in Leadership and Higher Education program.

This online higher education leadership program helps students keep up with the advancements in higher education by using cutting-edge online learning technology and creative course design. Full-time students who follow the suggested course sequencing can complete the program in as short as 39 months.

Leadership in the 21st Century, Ethical Decision-making, Managing Resources, and Predictive Analytics in Higher Education & Leadership are three of the program’s required courses. Students can start their dissertation process as soon as they begin studying for their concentration courses—this will help them develop and apply knowledge as they progress through the program.

Graduates will have the abilities necessary to develop strategies that address real-world issues in higher education.

A master’s degree from an approved university is required to qualify for the doctoral program. GRE is still waived. SWU is accredited by the SACSCOC.


University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi

EdD in Higher Education Administration

Accredited by the SACSCOC, the University of Southern Mississippi offers one of the most affordable and highly valued EdD in Higher Education Administration that can be completed 100% online with optional on-campus meetings. Instead of requiring students to complete a dissertation, the program will require a capstone project. Students will choose from a pool of existing higher education issues and work on them as they go along the program.

Social Justice in Higher Education, Organization and Administration of Higher Education, and Legal Issues in Higher Education are three of the program’s required coursework. Courses of the program are often completed through synchronous learning formats to give students more opportunities for real-time interactions with faculty and peers. Synchronous classes, often night sessions, will meet every week at the same time and on the same day.

In addition to an accredited master’s degree, students must submit a statement addressing their ​philosophy, areas of interest, professional goals, and why they should be considered for the EdD program. The program accepts up to 18 transfer credits, assuming that transferable credits have not been used for a previously conferred degree.


University of West Georgia

University of West Georgia

EdD in Higher Education Administration

The University of West Georgia is a SACSCOC-approved institution offering a fully online EdD in Higher Education Administration with zero on-campus requirements.

Online students will still receive the same academic rigor as a degree earned on-campus, focusing on postsecondary administration, leadership, and finance management coursework. The program’s curriculum will help students gain expertise in identifying and solving issues in higher education.

As one of the most customizable online doctorates in higher education, UWG’s EdD program allows students to choose a focused subject. They can focus on Student Affairs, Academic Leadership, Technology and Innovation, or Financial Affairs.

While each focus has its own required courses, students will undergo an Advanced Seminar in Leadership, Analysis of Higher Education Literature, Governance in Higher Education, and a few other coursework. Through core and research courses, graduates can successfully evaluate the success of policies and programs in higher education institutions.

All EdD applicants must have a master’s degree or higher with a cumulative GPA on all coursework of 3.0, 3-5 years of relevant professional experience, a writing sample, a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and a letter of intent.


Purdue University

Purdue University - College of Education

PhD in Higher Education

Purdue University is an HLC-accredited institution offering one of the best doctorates that allow students to pursue positions as postsecondary education administrators.

Purdue’s online PhD in Higher Education integrates a curriculum that emphasizes the trends and issues faced by 21st-century higher education institutions, from its administrative to sociocultural aspects. Doctoral students can work with established faculty members and help them publish original research.

A few of the program’s required coursework includes topics in Higher Education Law, Economics and Finance of Higher Education, Higher Education Leadership, and International & Intercultural Education.

Students can modify their degree programs further by choosing a specialization relevant to higher education. Online students can maximize their potential by participating in an international research-focused study abroad experience that will provide students with mentorship and real-world experience.

Purdue’s admission requirements are not as competitive as other doctorates. There is no GPA cutoff on graduate-level coursework, and GRE scores are not required. Students, however, must submit a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.


Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University

EdD in Organizational Leadership: Higher Education Leadership

Grand Canyon University’s Higher Education Leadership degree is among the best online programs for education professionals seeking a doctorate to apply for leadership roles in higher education institutions. This online program integrates research-driven strategies to ensure students are prepared to face all issues in higher education. It employs a curriculum that blends various topics, from governance, law, and budgeting to equity and justice.

This educational leadership program focuses on the qualitative side of higher education, allowing students to explore real-world trends and patterns affecting the whole sector. While studying, studying can contribute to the body of knowledge by helping experts conduct original research.

Through various courses, such as Fiscal Management in Higher Education and Strategic Planning and Change, students will develop a fresh perspective on organizational leadership styles that are valuable in conducting research.

Online students must participate in two or three five-day residencies on campus for collaboration and networking purposes. Accredited by the HLC, GCU requires applicants to present a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution along with their personal statements, letters of recommendation, and writing samples.


St. Cloud State University

St.-Cloud-State-University

EdD in Higher Education Administration

St. Cloud State University offers HLC-accredited degree programs, one of which is the EdD in Higher Education Administration, that can be completed via online learning. Students who want to complete the program faster can enroll in 8-week courses, while those who want to go slower can participate in 16-week course delivery.

The 8-week courses are designed for students with excellent time management skills since these courses operate at a faster pace but still have the same demands as traditional courses. The program offers a flat rate tuition fee, making it one of the best choices for non-residents.

Students can tailor their degree programs by choosing electives that align with their professional goals. The American College Personnel Association (ACPA) and National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) standards serve as the program’s baseline for evaluating professional abilities.

Online students can apply for Graduate Assistantships and receive up to $15,000 yearly stipend and tuition reimbursement.

A 3.0 GPA on all graduate-level coursework is required. Students can transfer up to 12 master credits to reduce the required credit hours of the doctoral program.


University of Nebraska

University of Nebraska - System

PhD in Educational Studies: Educational Leadership & Higher Education

Acknowledged by the HLC, the PhD in Educational Studies at the University of Nebraska offers an online Educational Leadership & Higher Education concentration. While some courses are completed online, students must travel to campus for six credit hours of on-campus research residency seminars. Seminars typically concentrate on unique subjects of great interest and provide enough opportunity for interaction with field-specific experts.

Coursework of the program explores various areas related to higher learning, which includes Educational Systems and Governance and Diversity & Equity in Education organizations. Students will have an academic advisor to help them choose their electives to align with their goals. Electives span from law to planning and community development.

Students will gain in-depth knowledge about Intermediate Quantitative Methods and Qualitative Methods to for their original research.

Applicants must present a valid teaching and administrative certificate, an accredited master’s degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher, GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, and a written personal statement.


Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson University

EdD Higher Education

Fairleigh Dickinson University, acknowledged by the MSCHE, offers a practice-based Doctor of Higher Education program. FDU is ranked as one of the most affordable private universities in the United States. The EdD program at FDU is one of the most accelerated doctorates, with an average completion time of 26 months.

Designed for professionals in educational sectors, this online doctorate in higher education can be completed online, with a few on-campus summer residences and internships, including seminars, symposiums, and multidisciplinary projects.

Students must complete 45 credits at FDU, including Database Management and Reporting in Higher Education, Database Management and Reporting in Higher Education, and Quantitative and Statistical Analysis. Courses are taught in 8-week sessions by educators with years of field experience.

You need a bachelor’s and master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and an average 3.0 GPA on graduate-level coursework to qualify for the online program. You must also provide a written statement, at least three years of higher education or related field experiences, letters of recommendation, and a current resume.


University of Rochester

University of Rochester - Warner School of Education

EdD in Educational Administration with Specialization in Higher Education

The University of Rochester’s online EdD in Educational Administration allows students to focus their studies on Higher Education and have the option to complete the program in an accelerated or traditional format. Accredited by the MSCHE, graduates of Rochester’s doctoral programs will be highly valued in the workplace. The specialization equips students with the advanced skill set and knowledge that academic institutions seek.

Students can simultaneously earn a certificate in Program Evaluation or Online Teaching and gain more practical skills to become more competitive in job applications.

The specialization’s coursework aims to prepare students for the difficulties that exist in the higher education industry by requiring them to complete courses in Organizational Behavior, Educational Policy, Strategic Planning, Finances and Budgeting, Curriculum Creation, Student Affairs, and Diversity and Inclusion. The program fosters a culture of inquiry and critical thinking by encouraging research and academic activity.

There’s no stated minimum GPA requirement to qualify for the program. However, students must possess a master’s degree from regionally accredited colleges and universities. Additional admission requirements include official transcripts, letter of recommendation, statement of purpose, current resume or curriculum vitae, writing sample, and initial teaching certification.


Capella University

Capella University

PhD in Leadership for Higher Education

Capella University’s PhD in Leadership for Higher Education allows students to enroll in online and on-campus courses. The program requires students to complete 77 credit hours at Capella, which focuses on preparing students for higher education research and teaching. Students can tailor their degrees based on their professional plans with eight specialization options.

Four of the eight specializations in Capella’s online doctorate in higher education program are Human Resources, Politics, Technology, and Advanced Funding and Managing Education Enterprises. Students must complete six core courses, three virtual residencies, a comprehensive exam, and a dissertation, regardless of concentration.

As part of the dissertation research process, students will collaborate with a faculty member in searching for current or possible issues in higher education.

Prospective students can transfer up to 16 credit hours to the program. Interested applicants must have an accredited master’s degree with a 3.0/4.0 GPA or higher. GRE and GMAT scores are not required for admission.


Oregon State University

Oregon State University - Ecampus

EdD in Adult and Higher Education

Oregon State University’s EdD in Adult and Higher Education program is among the best and cheapest hybrid doctoral programs. Students can complete their remaining coursework fully online after spending the first two years meeting face-to-face for two weekends per term, excluding summers, on campus.

Students will enroll in applied research courses after two years to complete their thesis. Full-time students can complete all the program’s required coursework in as few as three years.

Students will explore adult and higher education administration topics, such as Needs Assessment, Program Evaluation, Contemporary Issues, Organization Theory, Policy Issues, and Ethical Practice.

Thanks to OSU’s accreditation from the NWCCU and its award-winning faculty, students can confidently pursue careers that are vital to solving current issues in the higher education system. Faculty members at OSU have publications in prestigious, peer-reviewed educational journals.

To qualify for OSU’s doctorate in higher education leadership program, you must submit an official copy of your transcripts, a resume or CV, a professional statement/writing sample, three letters of reference, and an accredited master’s degree. You must also have at least three years of full-time work experience in two- and four-year academic institutions.


East Carolina University

East Carolina University

EdD in Educational Leadership: Higher Education Administration

The SACSCOC permits East Carolina University to grant degree programs. ECU’s hybrid EdD in Educational Leadership program offers a Higher Education Administration concentration designed for education professionals seeking an advanced degree and knowledge for administrative positions in four-year institutions. 20% of the coursework is done face-to-face, while 80% is online.

This is one of the most rigorous doctoral programs wherein students must conduct an academic investigation and study to contribute to the field via original research and data-driven decision-making. The concentration courses explore topics in Policy Development and Analysis, Program Evaluation, and Educational Planning, among others. Course sequencing of this doctorate in higher education leadership program is designed to help students prepare for dissertations.

Application requirements include a completed master’s from an appropriately accredited institution, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, a writing prompt, a statement of purpose, and a current resume. It would help you to have at least three years of professional work experience in supervisory positions in academic institutions.

What To Expect in Online Doctorate in Higher Education Degree Programs

What To Expect in Online Doctorate in Higher Education Degree Programs

Online doctorates in higher education typically take three to eight years, depending if you’re pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). EdDs often have fewer required credit hours, whereas PhDs are more demanding. Original research required by PhD programs takes longer than dissertations found in EdDs. 

While EdDs and PhDs have different approaches to learning, both are advanced degrees covering history, organizational theory, leadership, finance, planning, and more that aim to provide students with an in-depth understanding of higher education administration and leadership. 

Some of the most common coursework you’ll encounter in EdDs and PhDs in Higher Education include:

Postsecondary Assessment and Evaluation Course

The ideas and procedures for measuring student learning outcomes and determining the efficacy of educational programs in postsecondary institutions are covered in depth in this course. Students will learn about various assessment methodologies, data collecting, analysis, and application.

Higher Education Financial Management

Students investigate the elements of financial management unique to colleges and universities. Topics covered include budgeting, financial planning, resource allocation, financial analysis, income production, endowment management, enrollment management, and fiscal policies.

Higher Education Law and Ethics

This course allows students to understand the legal and ethical concerns pertinent to the management of colleges and universities—topics covered in this course span from academic freedom to campus safety and intellectual property to privacy. The ethical factors that go into decision-making in the context of higher education will also be covered.

Higher Education Leadership

The main focus of this course is the development of leadership abilities and competencies relevant to higher education settings. Students will learn about leadership ideas, approaches, and ideal procedures for managing and leading educational institutions. The course may address decision-making, communication, change management, and creating a productive company culture.

Organizational Management 

The management and optimization of organizational structures and procedures inside colleges and universities is a topic covered in this course. Students will study human resource management, organizational behavior, strategic planning, and effective management strategies.

Postsecondary Education Governance

Students will thoroughly understand the governance arrangements and decision-making procedures in postsecondary institutions. They’ll study the roles and duties of governing boards, executives, professors, and other stakeholders in determining the institutional policies, vision, and direction.

Higher Education Strategic Planning

Students will be taught how to create and carry out long-term strategies to accomplish institutional goals and objectives. They will research strategic analysis, environmental scanning, goal-setting, and resource alignment to assist colleges’ and universities’ strategic plans.

Research Courses

Doctorates integrate comprehensive research courses that prepare students for their dissertation, capstone, or original research project. Students typically study data analysis methods, literature review procedures, and research methodology. These classes are essential for ensuring that students are adequately equipped to do independent research in their chosen area of emphasis.

Accreditation

The first thing one should do when searching for online doctorates is to check the school’s accreditation. Accreditation status reflects a school’s reputation and academic caliber—it gives you the confidence that you’ll be provided with proper care. 

American colleges and universities can either have regional or national accreditations. Academic programs often obtain regional accreditation, whereas professional and vocational programs typically hold national status. Regional accreditation is a given for any credible online doctorate in higher education. 

The following are regional accreditations you need to look out for:

You could also check the EdD degree program’s accreditation. The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) are two organizations that accredit degree programs in education.

Higher Education Doctorates Careers and Salaries

Postsecondary Education Administrators

Postsecondary education administrators oversee faculty affairs, admissions, student services, and academic programs. Other responsibilities include setting policies, managing finances, working with teachers and staff, and ensuring compliance with educational legislation.

Median Annual Salary: $99,940

Postsecondary Higher Education Teachers

Professors, often known as faculty members, are academic specialists who instruct courses in colleges and universities. They research, provide lectures, coach students, and assess their development. They frequently participate in intellectual pursuits and advance knowledge in their subject by publishing and researching.

Median Annual Salary: $80,840

Public Relations and Fundraising Managers

These experts create and put into practice communication plans to uphold organizations’ favorable reputations and take part in fundraising activities. They attempt to enhance the institution’s reputation, manage public relations campaigns, and generate money.

Median Annual Salary: $125,620

Provost

The Provost is second to the President or Chancellor in a university or college’s hierarchy of academic administrators. They maintain the academic quality and standards of the school and supervise academic programs, faculty hiring, curriculum creation, and faculty development. The Provost collaborates with other administrators to establish the institution’s academic vision and direction.

Median Annual Salary: $166,809

Academic Dean

The academic quality of their units is crucially dependent on the work of the academic deans. They oversee particular academic departments within a college or university. Within their respective departments, they manage student-related issues, regulate educational policies, coordinate curriculum development, and supervise teachers. 

Median Annual Salary: $140,322

Training and Development Manager

Designing, implementing, and assessing professional development programs for teachers and staff falls within the purview of training and development managers. They determine what training is required, plan seminars, and make sure there are chances for ongoing education for staff members.

Median Annual Salary: $120,000

Financial Aid Director

Financial aid directors manage college and university financial aid programs. They help families and students apply for financial aid, decide who qualifies for grants and scholarships, and oversee the distribution of financial aid disbursements.

Median Annual Salary: $154,616

Education Policy Analyst

Education policy analysts study, examine, and evaluate educational policies to determine how they affect schools and students. They collaborate with decision-makers, educational groups, and institutions to create informed and successful educational policies and programs.

Median Annual Salary: $90,092

Curriculum Specialist in Universities

University faculty members and administrators work together with curriculum specialists to create and update academic curricula. They ensure that curricula reflect new developments in their professions, adhere to accrediting standards, and align with educational objectives. Additionally, based on student comments and outcomes, curriculum specialists evaluate the effectiveness of the curriculum and recommend adjustments.

Median Annual Salary: $76,321

Online Doctorate in Higher Education - fact

Frequently Asked Questions

How will a doctorate in higher education affect my teaching license/certification?

Doctorates are great additions to teaching licenses and certificates. It can improve your professional status and career possibilities in education. You can apply for numerous advanced professions, including those in curriculum creation, research, or specialized training with a doctorate. 

Is a teacher license/certification required to qualify for online doctorates in higher education?

The need for a teaching license/certificate varies from school to school. But in general, doctor of education degree programs will require applicants to have a license or certification, whereas it’s rarely asked in PhDs. PhD programs in these areas frequently emphasize academic scholarship and research above practical experience.

Is an online doctorate in higher education worth the investment?

Competition for postsecondary positions is highly competitive. A doctorate in higher education will help you stand out from a pool of applicants. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Postsecondary Education Administrators is expected to grow by 4 percent.

Key Takeaways

We’re certain of one thing—your search for more information on picking the best graduate degree or school landed you here. Let our experts help guide your through the decision making process with thoughtful content written by experts.