Earning a Doctor of Education (EdD) is a significant achievement that can open doors to many exciting career opportunities. But let's be honest—after putting in all that hard work, you want to make sure it pays off financially, too. Whether you're already working on your EdD or just thinking about it, knowing which jobs offer the best salaries is essential. In this blog, we’ll look at the top careers for EdD holders and how much you can expect to earn in each role. Let’s dive in and see how you can get the most out of your EdD salary.
What is an EdD?
A Doctor of Education is an advanced degree focused on the practical application of research and knowledge to real-world educational challenges. Unlike a PhD, which often emphasizes theoretical study, the EdD is designed for professionals aiming to take on leadership roles in academic settings.
EdD candidates are trained to lead organizations, develop policies, and implement programs that enhance educational outcomes. They learn to navigate the complexities of educational systems and drive change at multiple levels, from local schools to national educational policies.
What is the Average EdD Salary?
The average doctorate in education salary is approximately $154,829. This figure represents the mean salary across the roles of school superintendent, school principal, chief learning officer, training and development manager, curriculum director, and school administrator.
Factors Affecting EdD Salaries
Several key factors come into play when determining a doctorate degree salary. Here’s a breakdown of what can influence your earning potential.
- Location: Salaries can vary significantly depending on where you work. Urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living typically offer higher salaries compared to rural areas.
- Experience: The more years you have in the field, the higher your doctor of education salary is likely to be. Experienced professionals often command higher pay.
- Specialization: Certain specializations within education can lead to higher salaries. For example, specializing in educational leadership, administration, or curriculum development can boost your earning potential.
- Industry: The sector you work in also matters. EdD holders working in higher education, corporate training, or government positions often earn more compared to those in K-12 education.
- Role and Responsibilities: Higher-level positions such as superintendents, deans, or directors usually come with higher salaries. The more responsibility you take on, the more you can expect to earn.
- Institution Type: Working at prestigious universities or well-known institutions can lead to higher pay. Public vs. private institutions can also make a difference.
- Additional Certifications: Holding extra certifications or licenses can make you more marketable and potentially increase your EdD degree salary.
- Negotiation Skills: The ability to negotiate is another determining factor in the average salary of someone with a doctorate degree. Being well-prepared to discuss your qualifications and experience can help you secure a better pay package.
6 Examples of Doctor of Education Jobs and Salaries
With an EdD, a variety of career paths open up, each offering unique opportunities to lead and innovate in educational and organizational settings. Graduates can take on high-level roles in school administration, instructional development, corporate training, human resources, and more. Here are six examples of EdD careers, along with the average salary for doctorate degree holders in these occupations.
School Superintendent
School superintendents oversee the operations of entire school districts, ensuring that educational standards are met and that schools are operating efficiently. They work closely with school boards, principals, teachers, and community stakeholders to develop and implement policies that enhance educational quality.
As of 2024, the average salary for a school superintendent in the United States is $178,786. However, this can range from $146,046 to $215,726, depending on factors such as education, certifications, additional skills, and years of experience.
Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals
School principals manage the day-to-day operations of individual schools. They are responsible for setting academic goals, overseeing staff and students, and ensuring that the school complies with state and federal regulations. Principals play a crucial role in creating a positive learning environment.
The average salary for school principals in the United States is $118,659. Salaries typically range from $104,805 to $133,482, influenced by factors such as location, school size, and years of experience.
Chief Learning Officer
Chief Learning Officers (CLOs) are responsible for an organization’s overall learning and development strategy. They lead efforts to enhance employee skills, improve performance, and foster a culture of continuous learning. CLOs often work in corporate environments, but they can also be found in educational institutions and non-profits.
The average salary for a Chief Learning Officer in the United States is $221,200. Depending on the organization and the CLO's experience and expertise, the salary range typically falls between $183,800 and $269,500.
Training And Development Manager
Training and Development Managers design, implement, and oversee training programs that enhance an organization’s employees' skills and knowledge. They assess training needs, develop curriculum, and measure the effectiveness of training initiatives. These professionals are essential in ensuring that employees remain competitive and effective in their roles.
The average salary for a Training and Development Manager in the United States is $138,142. Salaries typically range from $121,389 to $157,882, influenced by the manager’s experience, the size of the organization, and industry specifics.
Curriculum Director
Curriculum Directors are responsible for developing and evaluating educational curricula. They work with teachers, administrators, and educational experts to create programs that meet academic standards and improve student learning outcomes. Curriculum Directors also analyze data to assess curricula's effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
As of 2024, the average doctorate salary for a Curriculum Director in the United States is $152,423. The salary range typically falls between $135,511 and $170,638, depending on factors such as education, experience, and the specific demands of the job.
School Administrators
School Administrators oversee the administrative tasks of educational institutions, including managing budgets, staffing, and policy implementation. They ensure that schools run smoothly and efficiently, providing a supportive environment for both students and staff.
The average pay for School Administrators is $119,765. The salary range typically falls between $106,046 and $134,809, depending on education, experience, and the specific demands of the job.
Career Outlook for EdD Jobs
The career outlook for EdD graduates is promising. There is an increasing demand for educational leaders who can drive change and improve educational outcomes.
For example, according to recent statistics, employment in education administration is expected to grow at a 4% rate, reflecting the ongoing need for skilled leaders in both K-12 and higher education settings. EdD graduates are well-positioned to take advantage of this demand, with opportunities for advancement and attractive salary prospects.
Get Your EdD Online at the University of Miami
Pursuing an EdD can be a game-changer for your career, opening doors to higher salaries and leadership positions in the education field. The University of Miami offers an online EdD program in Applied Learning Sciences, providing a flexible and convenient way to advance your education without putting your life on hold.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our EdD degree online to learn more about the program details and how it can help you achieve your career goals. If you have any questions or need personalized guidance, connect with an advisor today.
