Difference between Ph.D and Ed.D

DizzyJ DHSc PA-C · Nov 22, 2017

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

Shanimal · Nov 22, 2017

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.

JerseyBSN · Nov 22, 2017

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.

MilesRN, BSN, MSN, DNP · Mar 14, 2018

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

DizzyJ DHSc PA-C · Mar 14, 2018

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.