Online PhD or doctorate programs in higher education prepare students to become administrators in the field of higher education. You will need more than just a master’s degree if you want to assume a leadership role in higher education. If you want to be a college administrator, you will require a PhD in higher education.
What is an online PhD in higher education?
This is a doctorate that prepares a person for a leadership role in the field of higher education. Persons with this degree can get positions in university and college administration and in government agencies guiding education policy.
Is an online PhD program in higher education right for me?
If you want to change your role from that of instructor or college professor to that of college administrator it is ideal for you. If your career plans include goals such as college president, dean or chancellor, you will need this PhD.
Something to consider is that an online PhD program will take up quite a bit of your time. Be prepared to spend several hours a day working on the program. Also be aware that you will not have the resources of a traditional university to support you. If you have the discipline to work alone, this program should be right for you.
How long does it take to obtain an online PhD degree in higher education?
Surveys of PhD graduates indicate that it takes about five years for the average person to complete a PhD in the field of higher education. There are many people who defy the average and complete their PhD in a shorter time. The length of time required will depend on many factors, including a student’s willingness to study, the structure of the program and the course load.
How much does an online PhD in higher education cost?
Current information available online indicates that the cost of PhD in higher education is around $42,000 for the average program. Many factors can increase this figure, including inflation and the specific school that you attend.
What are the admission requirements for online higher education PhD programs?
The usual requirements are of a master’s degree in a field such as education or teaching. Other master’s degrees, including MBAs and MPAs (Masters of Public Administration) may also be accepted. Some programs require experience in teaching or school administration. Most programs will require specific coursework and a GPA of at least 3.5 in graduate and undergraduate classes. Quite a few PhD programs also require applicants to score a high percentile on the GRE.
What skills will I learn in an online higher education PhD program?
Most programs focus on research and analysis skills that cover a wide variety of disciplines. The focus is on giving individuals the broad vision needed for education leadership.
What courses will I take in online higher education PhD programs?
Typical courses include:
- Introduction to statistical interference
- Qualitative research methods
- Survey course in US higher education
- Ethical issues in higher education
- Policy analysis in higher education
- Leadership
- Education policy
- Higher education leadership
- Curriculum, instruction and assessment
What types of jobs are available after earning my online PhD in higher education?
- College administrator
- Dean
- College president
- Community college president
- College vice president
- Higher education analyst
- Higher education consultant
- Professor
- Chancellor
- Registrar
What is the average salary of online higher education PhD graduates?
Salaries vary depending on the employer. Higher education analysts that work for the federal Government Accountability Office make between $75,000 and $93,000 a year. Top-level college administrators such as deans, college presidents and heads of departments at colleges generally make around $121,000 a year, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Registrars make around $71,000 a year and average college administrators make around $72,000 a year.