A PhD degree in Education represents the highest degree a student can earn in the field of education. In a PhD degree program, a student completes courses designed to give them a theoretical foundation in education, as well as courses in methodology to prepare them for their dissertation research project. There are many reasons why someone would earn a PhD in Education, but in this article, we will cover the top five.

1. Achieve Your Personal Goals

For some, earning a PhD degree represents a personal goal or something that was on their bucket list. Completing a doctoral degree program is a significant achievement. According to the most recent U.S. census, only about two percent of the population have a doctorate level degree. Since so few students have earned a PhD degree, those with this credential are highly respected in their field as knowledge leaders in their area of research.

2. Gain New Skills

Students who complete a PhD in Education degree program become an expert in their chosen area of study which helps them stand out in the job market. Students complete coursework designed to train students how to conduct sound research in different areas of education. Students learn how to ask critical questions and design proper procedures to conduct their research. Students also sharpen their presentation skills by presenting their research through poster sessions and journal articles with the assistance of their supervising professor.

3. Pursue Higher Education While Keeping Your Day Job

Drexel University’s PhD program is unique compared to others since it offers full-time and part-time program options. Students who are accepted into the full-time program do not pay tuition but assist the academic departments as either a research or teaching assistant while completing their coursework and dissertation. Full-time students also receive a monetary stipend and health insurance benefits through Drexel.

The part-time program is ideal for working students who do not want to sacrifice their job for the degree. Students in the part-time program pay tuition and take courses in the evenings. Part-time and full-time students complete the same courses and have access to all Drexel resources including academic and career advising, and access to academic facilities like the Hagerty Library.

4. Advance Your Career

A PhD in Education is ideal for those interested in careers in education research and/or positions as faculty members in higher education institutions. A PhD degree is often desired by universities when selecting candidates for tenure-track faculty positions. 

5. Use Research Methods to Examine Educational Problems

The ability to conduct sound research and explore solutions to complex problems are important skills that students learn in a PhD in Education program. Students complete courses that focus on research methods and how to properly conduct data analysis. As such, PhD degree holders are well-positioned to conduct and complete comprehensive research on an area of education that they are passionate about.

Earning a PhD in Education from Drexel University's School of Education

If you are interested in learning more about PhD in Education programs, we encourage you to review our PhD page and determine which format (full-time or part-time) is right for you. Additionally, if you would like to talk to an advisor about the program, please complete the request for more information form and we will contact you right away.