An online doctoral degree in elementary education may be comprised of advanced research in educational philosophy, learning theory, and educational leadership. In this three to five-year program, students may learn the fundamentals of instructional practice, educational purpose and theory, and social foundations in education. Program coursework may consist of dissertation preparation courses alongside major courses including educational sociology, child development, and philosophy of education.

Upon graduation, students may seek employment in their chosen field. Doctoral-level graduates may gain employment in various educational settings, including post-secondary education, public, and private school districts.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree at minimum
• Program Length: Three to five years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment
• Projected Employment Growth: 17% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for doctoral-level elementary education degree programs may consist of dissertation research courses, cognate electives, and major courses. These courses may provide students with professional research skills that enhance their competencies in educational psychology, evaluation of teaching and learning, and curriculum development. Core elementary education classes may include the following:

• Philosophy of Education
• History of American Education
• Educational Sociology
• Child Development
• Psychology of Human Development
• Advanced Educational Psychology of Learning
• Research Colloquium

Career Options

Doctoral-level graduates may gain employment in post-secondary education, public school systems, private and charter schools, and non-profit organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, post-secondary teaching employment opportunities are projected to increase by 17% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• University Professor
• School Superintendent
• Principal
• Education Administrator
• Instructional Coordinator

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook