Are you looking to climb the career ladder in education? Whatever your goals, finding the right Educational Leadership Doctorate (EdD) program can be a game-changer. But with limited time and a tight budget, you need a program that offers both speed and affordability.
That’s where the top fastest EdD programs come in. These programs are designed for busy professionals like you who need to earn their doctorate without putting their lives on hold. With accelerated coursework and flexible scheduling options, you can earn your EdD in record time while still juggling work and family commitments.
In this article, we’ll explore the fastest EdD programs available, highlighting their key features, such as online delivery, condensed schedules, and competitive tuition rates. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or aspiring educator, these programs can help you achieve your academic and career goals without breaking the bank or sacrificing precious time.
Related Rankings and Valuable Resources:
- 10 Best Online Educational Leadership Doctorate Degrees
- 15 Best Doctorate Degrees in Education Online
- What is a Teaching Endorsement?
Methodology
Our analytics team has reviewed accelerated EdD programs in educational leadership using a variety of factors including:
- affordability determined by tuition rates on the school’s website
- student experience
- quality indicators such as accreditation
*Schools are listed in order of the time it takes to complete the EdD program.
First ranked in March 2024. Data was accurate at time of publication. Tuition rates are subject to change.
Key Terms in This Review
| Problem of Practice/Capstone Dissertation: A final project that addresses a specific issue or challenge faced within a professional field or context that requires attention and resolution. | Cohort Model: A program structure where a group of students progress through a program together, taking the same courses and following the same sequence of study. |
| Weekend Scheduling/Intensives: In-person components are scheduled at a convenient time for working professionals. | Scholar-Practitioner Approach: An approach that combines scholarly research with practical application in education. |
| Blended Courses: Courses that have both on-line and in-person components. | Asynchronous Courses: Courses where students are not required to attend classes at specific times. |
| Mentorship: A professional relationship in which a more experienced or knowledgeable professional provides guidance, support, and advice to a less experienced individual. | Certification Prep: The EdD program prepares students for an industry certification. |
| Concentration Areas: Specializations offered within the EdD program. |
The Top10 Fastest Educational Leadership Doctorate Degree Programs
1.) Lamar University – Beaumont, Texas
Lamar University is a vibrant and diverse institution known for its commitment to student success and academic excellence. With a history dating back to 1923, Lamar offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for success in their chosen fields. One of the standout features of Lamar is its dedication to hands-on learning experiences, offering students opportunities for research, internships, and experiential learning both on and off campus. The university’s strong emphasis on community engagement and service-learning initiatives fosters a spirit of civic responsibility among students, encouraging them to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Lamar University’s College of Education and Human Development presents a convenient online EdD program in educational leadership. Through this six-semester program, students can pursue advanced studies while continuing their full-time roles as educators. The program is designed for flexibility and accessibility. Students can complete their degree entirely online, without any mandatory on-campus commitments. With a focus on accommodating the schedules of busy professionals, Lamar University ensures that students have the opportunity to balance their academic pursuits with their professional responsibilities.
As a member of the prestigious Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate, Lamar University’s program upholds high standards of excellence and innovation. Students have the flexibility to choose from a range of concentration areas, such as Global Leadership and Educational Technology, enabling them to tailor their studies to align with their career goals. Through this online program, educators can gain valuable insights and develop advanced leadership skills while maintaining their professional commitments.
EdD Summary
Program Website: EdD in Educational Leadership-Global Leadership
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $678.35
Credit Hours to Completion: 60
Course Length: semester
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Course Delivery: online coursework
2.) Rockhurst University – Kansas City, Missouri
Rockhurst University stands out for its commitment to Jesuit values and its emphasis on holistic education. With a focus on academic excellence, service to others, and the development of the whole person, Rockhurst offers a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences. Rockhurst University offers a unique blend of:
- academic rigor
- values-based education
- real-world opportunities for personal and professional growth
Rockhurst University provides an online EdD in Education and Leadership Program, offering students the flexibility of four concentration areas:
- Higher Education
- Health Care Education
- Organizational Leadership
- K-12 Leadership
Graduate certificates are available for each concentration, enhancing the value of the degree. The program structure includes a cohort-based format and online course delivery to accommodate busy professionals. Students can complete their degree in just two years.
As part of the program requirements, all students undertake a doctoral capstone project. This project allows them to apply their learning to real-world educational challenges within their communities. This capstone experience empowers students to make tangible and meaningful contributions to educational practices. With a focus on practical application and community impact, Rockhurst University’s online EdD program prepares students to become effective leaders in education.
EdD Summary
Program Website: Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership: K-12 Leadership
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $800
Credit Hours to Completion: 45
Course Length: semester
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Course Delivery: online courses
3.) New York University – New York, New York
Located in the heart of New York City, New York University (NYU) stands out for academic excellence and cultural diversity. One of the defining features of NYU is its global perspective, with campuses and study-abroad programs spanning across six continents. The university’s commitment to innovation is evident in its renowned research centers and cutting-edge facilities. With a diverse student body representing over 150 countries, NYU fosters a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. NYU continues to attract top talent from around the globe, making it a truly unique institution of higher education.
NYU Steinhardt presents an online EdD in Leadership and Innovation tailored for working professionals. With a rigorous curriculum, students are exposed to various perspectives and encouraged to challenge preconceptions. This model fosters critical thinking and innovative problem-solving skills. The cohort-based program attracts a diverse range of experienced professionals, providing a rich learning environment that reflects real-world leadership challenges.
Designed for efficiency, students can complete the program in just 24 months. Students can balance their education with their professional responsibilities. Through collaborative learning experiences and practical coursework, participants gain valuable insights and skills that they can immediately apply in their respective fields. NYU Steinhardt’s online EdD program empowers professionals to become transformative leaders.
EdD Summary
Program Website: EdD in Leadership and Innovation
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $2,185
Credit Hours to Completion: 42
Course Length: semester
Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Course Delivery: online coursework combined with online on-campus immersive residency
4.) Gwynedd Mercy University – Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania
Gwynedd Mercy University (GMercyU) is renowned for its distinctive blend of academic excellence and compassionate community spirit. One standout feature of GMercyU is its emphasis on small class sizes, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and guidance from esteemed faculty members. Rooted in the Mercy tradition, the university instills in its students a strong sense of social responsibility and a commitment to serving others. GMercyU offers students ample opportunities for hands-on learning and professional growth.
Gwynedd Mercy University presents an accelerated Executive EdD in Education, emphasizing Leadership and Teaching & Learning. The program is delivered entirely online for convenience. Students can opt for either the Teaching and Learning in Higher Education program or the Leadership Program, which offers three distinct concentrations including:
- PreK-12 Schools and School Districts
- Higher Education
- Special Education
As part of the program, participants engage in a unique global residency experience in Ireland, collaborating with faculty at the University of Limerick. The cost of the residency is integrated into the tuition cost.
With a manageable 54 credit hour requirement, students can complete the program in less than three years. Students benefit from comprehensive dissertation support from the outset.
EdD Summary
Program Website: Executive EdD in Education: Leadership in PreK-12 Schools and School Districts
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $1,130
Credit Hours to Completion: 54
Course Length: seven weeks
Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Course Delivery: online coursework combined with field experience, a weekend on-campus residency, a week-long on-campus residency, and a week-long international study experience
5.) Purdue Global – West Lafayette, Indiana
Purdue University Global stands out for its commitment to providing accessible, career-focused education to students worldwide. As part of the renowned Purdue University system, Purdue Global offers a wide range of online programs designed to meet the needs of working adults. One unique aspect of Purdue Global is its emphasis on personalized support and flexibility, allowing students to balance their education with their professional and personal responsibilities.
Purdue Global presents an online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership and Innovation. The program is comprised of 19 courses designed to foster advanced leadership skills and innovative practices in education. Developed with input from experienced faculty, the program offers flexibility and affordability. Most students can complete their degree in under 2.5 years. Thanks to a generous transfer credit policy, learners can save up to $12,600 on tuition fees and graduate in two years by transferring up to 30 credits from their master’s degree program.
This EdD program offers doctoral courses entirely online, enabling students to balance their academics with other commitments. All students complete a doctoral applied research project with the support of an advisory. Students gain practical skills and knowledge that is applicable to their workplace or area of expertise. Graduates are well-equipped for leadership roles across various educational settings. They have the skillset to drive innovation and be a change agent in areas like curriculum development and instructional practices.
EdD Summary
Program Website: Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $420
Credit Hours to Completion: 90
Course Length: quarter terms
Student to Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Course Delivery: online courses
6.) Florida State University – Tallahassee, Florida
Florida State University is a renowned public research university known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and strong sense of tradition. With over 44,000 students from diverse backgrounds, FSU offers a dynamic learning environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and personal growth. One of FSU’s unique features is its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and collaboration, allowing students and faculty to tackle complex real-world problems from multiple perspectives. Florida State University continues to be a top choice for students seeking a transformative college experience.
Florida State University’s College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences offers an EdD in Educational Leadership and Administration. The program is recognized for its commitment to advancing educational policy and practice. As a member of the prestigious Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate since 2010, FSU’s program is categorized as an “experienced” program by the CPED. It catering to mid-career education leaders and scholarly practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of organizational systems and drive meaningful change.
The program’s coursework is delivered entirely online. This provides flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum is structured to allow students to build their dissertations as they progress through their studies. Students gather annually in Tallahassee for a three-day Summer Institute. This experience fosters connections with faculty and peers and providing valuable networking opportunities and academic engagement outside the online classroom setting.
Students are supported throughout the program. They work closely with a student advising coordinator and a major professor. Students also benefit from targeted writing support and peer connections through the cohort model.
EdD Summary
Program Website: EdD Educational Leadership and Administration
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $444.26
Credit Hours to Completion: 69
Course Length: semester
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Course Delivery: online coursework with a three day on-campus Summer Institute
7.) National University – San Diego, California
National University stands out as a unique institution in the realm of higher education due to its focus on providing accessible, flexible, and career-focused education to a diverse student population. National University offers a wide range of online and on-campus programs designed to meet the needs of working adults and non-traditional students. The university’s one-course-per-month format allows students to accelerate their degree completion while balancing other responsibilities. Additionally, National University prioritizes affordability and offers various financial aid options to make education accessible to all. National University empowers individuals to achieve their educational and professional goals.
National University’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD-EdL) is a fully online program designed for educators seeking flexibility in their doctoral studies. With new start dates available every Monday, students can begin their coursework at their convenience. Motivated students can complete 18 courses over the span of just 35 months. Students will gain knowledge in topic areas essential for educational leadership roles in both public and private sectors.
The program emphasizes a practitioner-researcher model. As part of this comprehensive degree, students undertake a dissertation project. This empirical research projects provides students with the opportunity to explore real-world challenges in education and propose innovative solutions. For those who have completed coursework elsewhere but haven’t finished their dissertation, National University offers a Dissertation Completion Pathway. This program offers personalized support and guidance to help eligible students complete their dissertation and achieve their doctoral aspirations.
EdD Summary
Program Website: Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership (EdL)
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $433.33
Credit Hours to Completion: 54
Course Length: foundational courses are eight weeks while dissertation courses are 12 weeks
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Course Delivery: online coursework
8.) University of Missouri – Columbia, Missouri
The University of Missouri, commonly known as Mizzou, stands out for its rich history and academic excellence. As the flagship institution of the state, Mizzou offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines. Mizzou is known for its strong sense of community and school spirit, with numerous traditions and events that bring students, faculty, and alumni together. The university’s commitment to research and innovation is evident through its state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative research opportunities.
The University of Missouri-Columbia’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership is tailored to meet the needs of administrators across various educational settings, including:
- K-12 schools
- colleges, universities, and districts
- nonprofit organizations
With a curriculum spanning 54 credit hours, students engage in a blend of asynchronous and synchronous coursework. Alongside coursework, students undergo comprehensive exams and complete a dissertation in practice. This type of dissertation provides students with practical experience in addressing real-world challenges in educational leadership. The program follows a part-time schedule and uses a cohort-based approach. Students take two courses per semester and earn their degree in just three years.
EdD Summary
Program Website: Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $535
Credit Hours to Completion: 54
Course Length: semester
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Course Delivery: online coursework
9.) University of Cumberlands – Williamsburg, Kentucky
The University of the Cumberlands (UC) is known for its commitment to providing accessible and affordable education to students from diverse backgrounds. One unique aspect of UC is its emphasis on faith-based learning, rooted in the university’s affiliation with the Kentucky Baptist Convention. This spiritual foundation is integrated into all aspects of campus life, fostering a supportive and inclusive community for students. UC offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as online courses, allowing students to pursue their education in a flexible manner.
University of the Cumberlands provides an online Doctor of Educational Leadership (EdD) program. The program is designed to equip students with advanced practitioner skills grounded in research methodologies. With a curriculum spanning 60 credit hours, students can complete their degree in three years or less. Courses are delivered in eight-week terms called bi-terms. There are two terms per semester. The program offers flexibility with many asynchronous courses, allowing students to balance their studies. EdD students also benefit from the One Price Promise, which includes access to free rental textbooks throughout the program.
As part of the program, students have the opportunity to further hone their skills through specialized courses such as:
- School Law
- Team Leadership
- Problems in Education
These courses provide students with focused knowledge and practical strategies.
Graduates of the EdD program benefit from career advancement opportunities and higher earnings. They are also able to make a positive impact on their students and communities with their advanced skillset.
EdD Summary
Program Website: Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $415
Credit Hours to Completion: 60
Course Length: eight weeks
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Course Delivery: online coursework
10.) University of Southern California – Los Angeles, California
The University of Southern California (USC) is renowned for its strong academic programs and influential alumni network. Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, USC offers students a dynamic learning environment with access to:
- world-class faculty
- state-of-the-art facilities
- countless opportunities for research and innovation
One unique aspect of USC is its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore diverse fields of study and gain a holistic understanding of complex issues.
The USC online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership offers a flexible program tailored to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. Admission requirements include a master’s degree and a minimum of three years of relevant work and leadership experience. With four concentration areas available, students can specialize in:
- K-12 Leadership in Urban School Settings
- Leading Instructional Change
- Higher Education Administration
- Educational Psychology
The program is comprised of core courses, concentration-specific courses, research methods training, and a practical dissertation component focused on addressing real-world challenges in education.
At USC online, the dissertation in practice component stands out as a cornerstone of the program. This approach emphasizes practical solutions to issues affecting equitable educational opportunities and outcomes. Through this hands-on approach, students investigate a real-world problem of practice, applying research methodologies to develop innovative solutions. By integrating theory with practice, graduates emerge equipped address complex educational challenges in their professional roles and communities.
EdD Summary
Program Website: Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership
Estimated Cost Per Credit Hour: $2,244
Credit Hours to Completion: 43
Course Length: semester
Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Course Delivery: online courses
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, an EdD in educational leadership is generally considered as respected as a PhD in the same field. Both degrees demonstrate advanced expertise and skills. An EdD typically focuses more on practical application and leadership development while a PhD is a more research and theory-based degree.
Yes! In fact, most programs are designed for working professionals. Online programs offer flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with your professional and personal commitments.
Yes. There are many online EdD programs with no on-campus residency requirements.
