Difference between Ph.D and Ed.D

A PhD is different then an EdD. The PhD always (to my knowledge) has a dissertation with original research. The EdD can have a capstone or project without dissertation/original research. Yes, they can both be considered a terminal degree. As in being the high degree you can get in education, but then you don't really have a terminal degree in nursing if it isn't nursing related. Does that matter...not likely.

"Are you still considered a doctor?" - my answer to that one can be a doctor and/or one can have a doctorate. If you are in academics, then yes, go ahead and consider yourself a doctor. In my experience I've never had a PhD out in public when asked what they do just say "I'm a doctor". They normally say they are a professor of ABC, a scientist in ABC, etc...they don't just say "I'm a doctor" and leave it at that. Whereas a physician will say "I'm a doctor" and the general public assumes they mean physician.

This chart could help answer questions about PhD vs EdD

https://www.waldenu.edu/-/media/Walden/files/education/doctoral/PhD-vs-EDD-Higher-Education.pdf?la=en

I considering getting my Ph.D in nursing education. Many online programs offer Ed.D. Is this the same as a doctorate but just that it is education? Are you still considered a doctor? Is it considered a terminal degree? I want to teach for a New Jersey state university so that I can get some loan foregiveness. I currently teach in an FNP program online with my MSN, FNP. State universities all seem to want a terminal degree. Thanks!

In short: yes, both Ph.Ds and Ed.Ds are doctorate degrees; yes, you'd still be Dr. So-and-So with either degree; and yes, both are terminal degrees. Having a Ph.D in Nursing Education translates to being a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Education whereas an Ed.D translates to being a Doctor of Education. Either degree would satisfy your career goals (academic teaching, having a terminal degree, etc.) but they each have different curriculums of study and research foci, so really it comes down to whichever one piques your interest more.

Thank you DizzyJon and Shanimal,

Both of you have provided the information that I need. I want to only use the title doctor when using my CV to apply for teaching position with the state, other than that I wouldn't use it. I am a nurse educator.

I have to respectfully disagree with you regarding the difference between the EdD and Ph.D. In most cases, both the Ph.D. and EdD require an original research dissertation. I have actually conducted extensive research on all types of doctorates from research oriented to professional/practice. There is, however, a slight variation with the EdD from college to college. Certainly, most colleges still require the dissertation for the EdD, while a few have transitioned to a capstone project. The EdD tends to be more applied in the application of knowledge. In selecting a Ph.D. or EdD, I recommend you determine the end goal. If research is your passion, then, select the Ph.D. If you are interested in a college leadership then, select the EdD. If you select an EdD be certain the program requires a dissertation. Especially, if you decide on teaching at the collegiate level. You might also consider where you desire to teach. I am few regions of the country for instance where I reside, the trend is a Ph.D., or a professional doctorate such as the DNP for nursing. Best of luck

Thank you, for respectfully disagreeing and then restating what I already said. An EdD can have a dissertation but also could have a capstone/project.