If you’re passionate about education, teaching, and research, earning your PhD in education or related field is a great investment in your future. By earning your PhD you’ll be prepared to take on a number of challenging and rewarding careers that make a difference. Some PhD programs take about five to seven years to complete, depending on the school and your area of concentration.

Finding an online program for your desired concentration can be difficult. Many schools now offer alternatives to their traditional programs, but each school can differ greatly in selection of specializations and programs. Several schools now specialize in online programs, including:

• Capella University
• Grand Canyon University
• Northcentral University
• University of the Rockies
• Walden University

My Degree and What It’s Good For

Doctoral degrees in education and related fields prepare graduates to work primarily in academia. However, you can choose to work for the government at the Federal, state, or local level. Education administrators are needed in many levels of education, including:

• Business Schools and Computer and Management Training
• Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools
• Educational Support Services
• Elementary and Secondary Schools
• Technical and Trade Schools

My Earning Potential

Education administrators earned a mean annual wage of $82,070 in May 2011, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics. With a PhD, you may earn more, depending on your level of experience and area of interest. Education administrators at the postsecondary level earned a mean annual wage of $97,170 in May 2011.

Education Doctorate Degree Programs

• Curriculum and Instruction
• Early Childhood Education
• Educational Administration
• General Education
• Special Education