It’s a common question for aspiring education leaders: Is it possible to complete an online Doctor of Education (EdD) program in just two years? The answer is yes, although these programs represent a smaller segment of the overall EdD landscape. Most EdD programs are structured to take three years or more to finish. The rigorous nature of doctoral-level coursework and the significant capstone project—often a dissertation or applied project—inherent in EdD studies mean that even fast-track programs typically extend slightly beyond the two-year mark for full-time students, and even longer for part-time learners. EdD programs advertised as being completable in approximately 24 months usually fall into three main categories:
- Accelerated, Intensive EdD Programs with Embedded Dissertations: These programs streamline the dissertation process directly into the curriculum.
- All But Dissertation (ABD) EdD Completion Programs: Designed for students who have finished all coursework in a previous EdD program but need to complete their dissertation.
- EdS to EdD Programs: These programs grant credit for prior coursework from an Education Specialist (EdS) degree, reducing the overall program length.
For those aiming to expedite their EdD journey, it’s crucial to understand that the majority of EdD programs require at least three years of full-time study. This extended timeframe is generally needed to adequately cover both advanced research methods and practical, profession-focused coursework. As highlighted, programs promising completion in two years or less are generally structured as one of the three types mentioned above.
Let’s delve deeper into each of these program types to understand how they facilitate faster completion times. It’s worth noting that while some online EdD programs accept students without a master’s degree, these typically require a longer study duration, often four to five years or more, to achieve the EdD degree. Generally, doctoral education across fields necessitates at least five years of post-baccalaureate education, whether integrated within the doctoral program itself or through a combination of master’s and doctoral level studies.
| Featured Two Year Online EdD Programs |
|---|
| Spalding University |
| Spalding University’s Online Ed.D. in Leadership can be completed in two years with students completing a capstone research project that is embedded into courses. No dissertation is required. |
| Maryville University |
| Maryville University’s Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership can be completed in as few as 32 months. |
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Accelerated, Intensive Online EdD Programs with Embedded Dissertations
Accelerated online EdD programs with embedded dissertations are designed for efficient degree completion, typically ranging from 24 to 32 months. These programs are known for their intensity and are offered in formats that are either fully online or blended with online coursework and in-person residency components. The defining feature of these programs is the integration of the dissertation process directly into the curriculum. This means that dissertation components are addressed and completed concurrently with regular coursework and assignments. Students in these programs essentially finish their dissertation around the same time they conclude their other doctoral coursework. This approach contrasts sharply with traditional EdD programs where the dissertation phase typically begins after the first two years of coursework, occupying much of the third year of study.
Prospective students considering these accelerated online EdD options should be aware that the advertised 24-month completion time usually assumes a full-time study commitment. This may not be practical for everyone, especially working professionals. Therefore, consulting with an admissions advisor is highly recommended to gain a realistic understanding of the completion timeline based on individual circumstances.
Examples of accelerated online EdD programs with embedded dissertations include:
- Bradley University’s online EdD in Higher Education Administration is structured for accelerated completion in as little as 28 months (seven semesters). The program incorporates five Action Research courses specifically designed to guide students through key dissertation elements. These courses are strategically integrated throughout the curriculum, which also covers contemporary learning methodologies, educational governance, learning technologies, curriculum assessment, financial administration, and educational policy. The accelerated pace necessitates year-round enrollment across all academic terms.
- Maryville University’s online EdD in Higher Education Leadership, while slightly longer than a strict two-year program, offers an accelerated path to completion in approximately 32 months. It also features an embedded dissertation model. The curriculum includes dedicated courses focused on each stage of the dissertation, from proposal development to research, writing, and defense preparation. Additionally, coursework covers reflective leadership, the college student experience, organizational leadership within higher education, data analytics for educational leadership, strategic change management, and fostering academic communities. The program also includes two research residencies.
- New York University’s EdD in Leadership and Innovation is delivered primarily online, incorporating two immersive residency experiences. It is designed to be completed in as few as 24 months of full-time study. The culminating research project is a Capstone, considered equivalent to an action-research dissertation. Students develop their proposal with faculty support by the end of the first year, and the second year focuses on structured coursework that guides them through research design, process documentation, data collection, analysis, and defense of findings. Beyond Capstone-related courses, the curriculum includes organizational leadership theory, partnership development, change management, and data analysis and ethics.
- University of Pennsylvania’s Executive EdD in Higher Education Management is designed for completion in as little as two years. This residential program requires monthly travel to Philadelphia for on-campus coursework, providing an intensive and highly structured environment with significant faculty interaction. It is tailored for senior leaders in higher education and includes an international immersion experience in the second year. Dissertation research questions are typically refined by the end of the first year, with ongoing faculty committee support throughout the subsequent year.
- University of Southern California’s Global Executive Doctor of Education is a hybrid program aimed at working professionals seeking leadership skills and research expertise to enhance educational programs and systems globally. Completed in approximately 25 months, it blends online classes with nine intensive on-campus residencies, each lasting 1-2 weeks. Coursework addresses creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, educational organization governance, research in education leadership, education performance assessment, policy alternatives, and problem-solving in education. Research courses prepare students for a Dissertation of Practice, integrated into the curriculum for timely completion with robust faculty support.
For more detailed information about EdD programs with embedded dissertations, including typical coursework, please see our FAQ: What is an embedded dissertation in EdD programs?
Note: Most EdD programs are tailored for experienced professionals in education and leadership roles. “Executive” EdD programs in educational leadership are less common than in fields like Business Administration at the master’s level. Executive EdD curricula may closely resemble traditional EdD programs, particularly those focused on organizational leadership. Furthermore, programs labeled as Executive EdDs may still require three or more years to complete, depending on their specific design.
| Featured Online EdD Programs with an Embedded Dissertation |
|---|
| Spalding University Online Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Leadership |
| Maryville University Online Doctor of Education – Higher Education Leadership |
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ABD (All But Dissertation) Online EdD Completion Programs
ABD EdD completion programs are specifically structured for individuals who have completed the majority or all of their EdD coursework in another program but have not yet finished their dissertation, causing delays in degree conferral. These programs can often be completed in under two years because students transfer substantial credits from their prior EdD coursework. The curriculum in ABD programs is primarily dissertation-focused, possibly including a few prerequisite or advanced content courses to refine the student’s specialization.
Both campus-based and online ABD EdD completion programs are available, with online formats offering maximum convenience for working professionals. Examples of online All But Dissertation EdD programs include:
- Gwynedd Mercy University’s online ABD Doctoral Degree Completion program is designed for completion within 18 months. Students take dedicated Dissertation Advisement courses, receiving personalized guidance from a faculty advisor through each stage of the dissertation process. The program also includes a course on educational research, ethics, and policy in educational leadership, and three specialization courses in areas such as Leadership in PreK-12 Schools, Higher Education Leadership, Special Education Leadership, and Teaching and Learning in Higher Education. While primarily online, the program requires one weekend in-person residency.
- Manhattanville College’s EdD in Educational Leadership, Dissertation Completion Pathway offers both on-campus and online formats, potentially completable in two academic years or less, depending on transferable credits. On-campus students join existing cohorts for courses focusing on research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, literature review support, and intensive dissertation writing. Online students follow a structured curriculum including a literature review seminar, a research refresher, a dedicated dissertation seminar, a proposal writing and academic writing seminar, and 9-11 dissertation credits under faculty supervision. The online program includes weekly synchronous online sessions.
- Bay Path University’s online EdD ABD Completion program, specializing in Higher Education Leadership and Organizational Studies, provides comprehensive dissertation support through Dissertation Seminars, a Dissertation Advisement course, and ABD Dissertation in Practice Community Seminars. This program can be completed in five academic terms, or slightly under two years. Coursework also includes action research, visionary leadership, organizational change and development, capacity building, transformational leadership in higher education, and entrepreneurial practices. An optional in-person Immersive Weekend is available for faculty and peer interaction.
- Alverno College’s online EdD ABD Completion program can be finished in two years, incorporating Dissertation Advisory courses alongside courses in responsive leadership and research in educational contexts. Students also take three courses from Alverno’s EdD Teaching and Learning in Higher Education concentration, covering diversity and inclusion, instructional efficacy, design, and curriculum development and evaluation in higher education.
For more information on EdD programs tailored for ABD students, please refer to our FAQ: Are there Online EdD Programs with an All But Dissertation (ABD) Option?
Educational Specialist (EdS) Degree to Online EdD Programs
EdS to EdD programs often present a faster route to a doctorate because they allow students to transfer advanced coursework credits from their EdS degree. While some EdD programs specifically require an EdS for admission, it’s also possible to transfer EdS credits to EdD programs even without a dedicated EdS to EdD track. Prospective students with an EdS should confirm with their programs of interest to determine credit transfer eligibility, which can significantly shorten the time to earn an EdD.
Like accelerated and ABD programs, EdS to EdD programs are available both on-campus and online. Online EdS to EdD programs offer optimal flexibility for working professionals.
Examples of EdS to EdD programs include:
- Northwest Nazarene University’s EdS to EdD in Educational Leadership program allows students with a qualifying EdS to transfer most or all EdS credits toward their doctorate. This online program can be completed in as little as 26 months and focuses on K-12 educational leadership, covering advanced research methods, data analysis, change management, and policy influence. A required two-week residency includes dissertation proposal completion and presentation, as well as courses in ethical leadership.
- William Carey University’s online EdS to EdD in P-12 Educational Leadership program permits students with an eligible EdS to transfer all course credits, waiving 30 of the 63 EdD credit hours. (EdS to EdD track students must complete prerequisite courses in APA writing, data analysis, and inquiry and assessment research). This structure allows EdS graduates to complete their EdD in as few as six academic terms, or two years. The program includes a 15-credit Advanced Leadership Core in instructional design, data analysis, inclusive learning environments, advocacy, and conflict mediation.
For further details on EdS to EdD programs, please consult our FAQ: Are there any online EdS to EdD degree programs?
Choosing the Right Online EdD Program
For educators aiming to earn their doctorate quickly, a two-year online EdD program is a possibility, but it demands a significant time commitment that might impact work and personal life. While speed is important, balancing professional, personal, and academic life is crucial for a meaningful educational experience.
Many EdD programs are designed for immediate workplace application. A slightly longer program duration might actually enhance the ability to apply learned concepts to improve educational outcomes in the current work environment. Therefore, a more gradual approach might be beneficial, focusing on programs that maximize daily time savings through flexible online formats and schedules suited to working professionals, eliminating relocation or commuting needs.
As previously mentioned, many two-year EdD programs, including those with embedded dissertations, ABD completion options, and EdS to EdD pathways, offer online or distance learning formats. For those seeking efficiency, these programs are strong options. To explore online EdD programs further, including specialization options, admissions criteria, learning technologies, and sample curricula, please browse our Directory of online EdD programs and our Resources page for articles, guides, and FAQs.
