Best Online Doctorates in Educational Technology: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salary
The best online Doctorate in Educational Technology can help you fast track your career as an educational specialist, instructional designer, e-learning developer, or medical specialist. In fact, earning a doctorate degree is one of the best paths you can take towards your own professional development, opening you up to more job opportunities and a higher salary.
An online PhD in Educational Technology program will allow you to develop the technical and critical thinking skills you need for a long and lucrative career. To help you with your school search, we’ve put together a list of the best educational PhD online programs in the country as well as a list of the best educational technology jobs with a high annual salary you can get thanks to your doctorate.
As technology continues to grow in its power and ubiquity, it has become more integral as part of our lives than ever before. Not only has it improved the quality of our lives, but it has also transformed the way we learn. Therefore, it is all the more significant to integrate innovative and effective technologies into the field of education. If you’re a professional or even a beginner looking to earn a PhD in Educational Technology, then read on.
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Educational technology examines the relationship between the design of technology, digital media, and learning. A PhD program in educational technology will train students to explore innovative technological solutions to learning challenges. As the highest level of all degree programs, an educational technology doctorate can provide several benefits.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about a PhD in Educational Technology. Whether you’re curious about the best online courses or the best academic programs, CareerKarma has got you covered.
Can You Get a PhD in Educational Technology Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Educational Technology online. Although sometimes more limited in scope than their in-person counterparts when it comes to research, online ed-tech PhDs require the same number of credit hours to complete and can still prepare aspiring or current education professionals to work in senior positions developing new technologies for the education field.
Is an Online PhD Respected?
Yes, an online PhD is respected. Online degree programs have a similar curriculum to in-person degree programs, meaning that a doctoral student who is a distance learner goes through the same training as an in-person student. Prospective students can still expect to go through a dissertation process and complete advanced coursework.
Make sure that the online PhD in Educational Technology you’re interested in is accredited. An accredited degree program adheres to high-quality education standards, thereby giving you value for your money and making it easier to land jobs with a high annual salary after graduating. Online academic programs are becoming more and more common, and so is the respect given to them by employers.
What Is the Best Online PhD Program in Educational Technology?
The best online PhD program in educational technology is the PhD in Education and Educational Leadership offered at Drexel University. This doctoral degree in education technology stands out among others thanks to its affordable tuition, the wide variety of online classes it provides, and the proven professional and academic success of its students.
Why Drexel University Has the Best Online PhD Program in Educational Technology
Drexel University has the best online educational technology PhD program because it offers students unique specializations while also being extremely affordable. The program allows you to specialize in STEM education or educational leadership and policy, which provides you with an excellent opportunity to shape your career path around your interests.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
Online PhD in Educational Technology Admission Requirements
The admission requirements of an online PhD in Educational Technology are different from school to school, but commonly include having a master’s degree in a relevant field and submitting a statement of purpose, resume, and letters of recommendation from professional references. Most institutions also require applicants to provide their official transcripts and have a minimum GPA requirement.
Some schools may require you to provide test scores, with GRE and GMAT being the most common tests required by universities. While not always the case, some programs will want to see evidence of teaching experience from applying graduate students. Make sure to thoroughly check your desired program’s admission requirements well before the application deadline.
Online PhD in Educational Technology Admission Requirements
- A Master’s Degree in Educational Technology or in a relevant field from an accredited institution.
- A written statement of intent or statement of purpose.
- A copy of your resume demonstrating your professional background in education.
- One or more recommendation letters.
- Meeting minimum GPA and standardized test scores.
- Your official college transcripts.
Best Online PhDs in Educational Technology: Top Degree Program Details
| School | Program | Estimated Length |
|---|---|---|
| Boise State University | Doctor of Education in Educational Technology | 3 years |
| Concordia University | PhD in Education | 4 years |
| Drexel University | PhD in Education and Educational Leadership | 4 years |
| Indiana University | EdD in Instructional Systems Technology | 4 years |
| Kennesaw State University | Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology | 3 Years |
| Liberty University | PhD in Education: Instructional Design and Technology | 3 Years |
| Morehead State University | Doctor of Education- Specialization in Educational Technology Leadership | 3 years |
| Old Dominion University | Instructional Design and Technology (Education, PhD) | Unspecified |
| Regent University | PhD in Education – Educational Technology and Online Learning | 5 years |
| University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign | Doctor of Education | 4 years |
Best Online PhDs in Educational Technology: Top University Programs to Get a PhD in Educational Technology Online
The top university programs to get an online PhDs in educational technology are designed to teach you the technical and soft skills you’ll need to excel in well-paying careers in the industry. You can rely on the degree programs listed below to teach you what you need to know to navigate the job market and earn a high annual wage after graduating.
Boise State University
Boise, IO
Boise State University , founded in 1932, provides a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in-person and fully online. The school currently has around 25,500 students enrolled in its over 170 degree programs in the fields of business, education, and art, among others.
Doctor of Education in Educational Technology
In this degree program, you’ll learn about current and emerging technologies in education. Its qualified instructors will teach you advanced concepts in academic technology leadership, technology integration, innovative teaching, and educational software. With this foundational knowledge, you can pursue a career as an educational technologist, instructional specialist, or e-learning developer.
Doctor of Education in Educational Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Program Length: Three years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $599/credit
Doctor of Education in Educational Technology Admission Requirements
- Your official college transcripts
- A writing sample
- Three letters of recommendation
- Your GRE scores
- A letter of application
- A copy of your resume
Concordia University Chicago
River Forest, IL
Concordia University Chicago is a private university offering more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields of study ranging from music to biological science. Founded in 1864, the university offers onsite and online education to its approximately 6,000 local and international students.
PhD in Leadership-Education Technology
The doctoral program in education will give you an extensive overview of the qualitative and quantitative methods used in educational research. Through the program, you will strengthen your knowledge of educational philosophies. Therefore, you can expect a solid foundation in educational studies and educational technology
PhD in Leadership-Education Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $270/credit
PhD in Leadership-Education Technology Admission Requirements
- A master’s degree from an accredited institution
- An objective statement
- Your official college transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- A writing sample
- A copy of your professional resume
- Teaching experience or administrative experience and an additional piece of writing may be required
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
Drexel University is a private university that was founded in 1891 and offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in all kinds of fields to help students excel in their chosen careers. Prospective students can pick from over 70 undergraduate degrees and 100 master’s, doctoral, and professional programs.
PhD in Education and Educational Leadership
This program is excellent for aspiring scholars, researchers, and instructors in the education industry. The program’s curriculum touches on educational leadership, policies, demand, and research methods. You can choose to focus your long hours of dissertation research on STEM education or education leadership and policy.
PhD in Education and Educational Leadership Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $140/credit
PhD in Education and Educational Leadership Admission Requirements
- A minimum GPA of 3.25, although a 3.5 GPA is preferred
- Your official college transcripts
- A $65 application fee
- Your GRE test scores, no minimum specified
- A copy of your resume
- Letters of recommendation, no amount specified
- A writing sample
Indiana University
Bloomington, IN
Founded in 1820, Indiana University offers its close to 44,000 students a large selection of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. These degree programs span a wide range of fields of study including arts, business, education, information technology, biomedical sciences, and engineering.
EdD in Instructional Systems Technology
In this doctoral degree program, you’ll learn how to test new technological processes and products to produce high-quality, innovative instructional materials for education. This 60-credit program will help you build the proper foundation of skills and knowledge needed for leadership and management roles at any institution.
EdD in Instructional Systems Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $513.27/credit (in-state); $604.74/credit (out-of-state)
EdD in Instructional Systems Technology Admission Requirements
- A master’s degree from an accredited institution
- A minimum GPA of 2.75
- Your college transcripts
- A written personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Your GRE scores, no minimum specified, not required for students with a 3.75 or higher graduate GPA
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA
Kennesaw State University , founded in 1963, is home to approximately 35,500 students and offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. These degree programs can be found in the fields of nursing, physical science, information technology, criminal justice, education, and engineering.
Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology
This Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology degree program will help you develop foundational and advanced skills. You will learn how to implement strategies, manage technology and support resources, and create a vision for technology. It's an excellent education track to become a chief information officer, chief technology officer, or technology director.
Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: Three years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $588/credit
Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology Admission Requirements
- A $60 application fee
- A master’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Your official transcripts from all universities attended
- A mentor form
- A teaching certificate recognized by the university
- A copy of your professional resume
- A written professional reflection statement
- Your GRE score report, no minimum specified
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
Liberty University offers students a multitude of associate, bachelor's, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. Founded in 1971, this private university is well known for its accredited degree programs which can be accessed online or in person. In fact, most of Liberty University’s students complete their degrees online.
PhD in Education: Instructional Design and Technology
You can use this doctoral degree program to acquire more knowledge and skills in instructional design. To acquire the degree, you must complete the advanced coursework and research. The basis of the curriculum will take you through developing, evaluating, designing, and implementing distance learning programs.
PhD in Education: Instructional Design and Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $595/credit (full-time); $650/credit (part-time)
PhD in Education: Instructional Design and Technology Admission Requirements
- A master’s degree from an accredited university
- A minimum 3.0 GPA
- A $50 application fee
- Your official college transcripts
Morehead State University
Morehead, KY
Morehead State University is a public institution offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs in accounting, agriculture, biomedical science, business, education, engineering, and more. The university has been operational since 1887 and continues to provide quality education in person and online.
Doctor of Education- Specialization in Educational Technology Leadership
In this program, you’ll learn about principles of leadership, educational change, ethical issues, individual learning systems, instructional design, and program evaluation in the context of educational technology. This program will perfectly prepare you to work as an educational technologist, e-learning developer, or media specialist.
Doctor of Education- Specialization in Educational Technology Leadership Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: Three years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $570/credit
Doctor of Education- Specialization in Educational Technology Leadership Admission Requirements
- Your official college transcripts
- An interview
- A master’s degree from an accredited institution
- A copy of your resume
- Three letters of recommendation
- A letter of introduction or interest
- Your GRE or GMAT test scores (optional)
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA
Established in 1930, Old Dominion University is a public university located in Norfolk, Virginia offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. The school is home to approximately 24,000 students enrolled in both online and in-person programs.
Instructional Design and Technology (Education, PhD)
This PhD program will equip you with the foundational skills in instructional design needed to address educational challenges. Through the program, you can start your career as a post-secondary teacher, instructional designer, computer specialist, or educational specialist.
Instructional Design and Technology (Education, PhD) Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: Unspecified
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $551/credit (in-state); $595/credit (out-of-state, online)
Instructional Design and Technology (Education, PhD) Admission Requirements
- A master’s degree from an accredited institution
- Your official college transcripts
- Three letters of reference
- Your GRE scores, no minimum stated
- An interview
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 and graduate GPA of 3.25
- 500-word personal statement
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
Regent University is a Christian university offering degree programs to almost 10,000 local and international students. Founded in 1977, the university has eight schools providing associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across 70 disciplines.
PhD in Education – Educational Technology and Online Learning
This doctoral program will help you gain a deeper understanding of instructional design processes, effective teaching strategies, and strategic planning methods. You will also learn how to handle online learning problems and learn a better method of delivering educational concepts to distance learners.
PhD in Education – Educational Technology and Online Learning Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $800/credit
PhD in Education – Educational Technology and Online Learning Admission Requirements
- Your unofficial college transcripts
- Your government-issued ID
- A completed admissions questionnaire
- A completed online application form
University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign
Champaign, IL
The University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign is a public research university that offers students undergraduate and graduate degree programs in multiple disciplines. Founded in 1867, the university prides itself on catering to local and international students and is one of the largest public universities in the country in terms of enrollment.
Doctor of Education
For this online program, you can choose from four different specializations. The university offers diversity and equity in education, global studies in education, human resource development, learning design and leadership, and international education administration and leadership. Below you will find out the general overview of the degree program.
Doctor of Education Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Program Length: 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $500/credit
Doctor of Education Admission Requirements
- A master’s degree from an accredited institution
- A minimum 3.0 GPA
- A statement of intent
- A copy of your resume
- Your official college transcripts
Online Educational Technology PhD Graduation Rates: How Hard Is It to Complete an Online PhD Program in Educational Technology?
It is very hard to complete an online PhD in Educational Technology. According to a research study performed by Eastern University, only 56.6 percent of students complete their PhD . While the lowest completion rates are in humanities and social sciences, online students generally have a lower overall success rate.
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Educational Technology Online?
It takes about three to four years to get a PhD in Educational Technology , according to US News & World Report. On average, these degrees require earning a minimum of 60 credits to qualify for graduation. Make sure to check the specific number of credits and other qualifications you require by the institution before the graduation application deadline.
The amount of time you take to complete a PhD program depends on a few factors. Part-time students often take more than three years to complete a doctoral degree program while self-paced online degree programs often tend to take less time than is average. If you encounter any roadblocks during your dissertation approval, it may take you longer to graduate.
How Hard Is an Online Doctorate in Educational Technology?
An online Doctorate in Educational Technology is not very hard. While the topics discussed in the program can be complex, your experience and interest in the field will make the program easier. Additionally, because the academic requirements for admission are quite strict, you should already have the work ethic and skills required to thrive in the program.
While most students prefer to attend in person as opposed to online, you will not have a challenge navigating this program if you prefer studying online and have strong time management skills and self-discipline. When it comes to technical requirements, all you need is a stable Internet connection and a working computer.
Why Should I Earn a PhD in Educational Technology?
Advances in educational technology have helped the US education system become more effective and conducive for online learning methods. A more flexible and personalized approach to learning is extremely important for academic success. Today, being well-versed in instructional design and technology has become more marketable than ever before.
With a educational technology doctorate, you can work in a variety of fulfilling administrative roles. You’ll be at the forefront of designing curriculums and learning technologies that will prepare students for excellence. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in the subject will teach you the fundamentals. However, the right PhD program will take your career to the next level.
From higher salaries to more rewarding career paths, a PhD will bolster your resume and enhance your career prospects. Here are some career paths (and their respective salaries) you can pursue with a PhD in Educational Technology:
- Chief Learning Officer – $199,100
- Provost – $149,526
- Director of Education Technology – $119,778
- Training and Development Manager – $116,388
- Higher Education Administrator – $95,410
As you can see, an educational technology doctorate will enable you to pursue rewarding careers in managerial or executive roles. Now, let’s discuss how you should choose the best PhD program.
Best PhD Programs
What Courses Are in an Online Educational Technology PhD Program?
The courses in an online educational technology PhD program include trends in educational technology, advanced online learning, special education, educational psychology, and educational leadership.
Main Areas of Study in an Educational Technology PhD Program
- Education theory
- Educational psychology
- Technology management
- Curriculum development
PhD in Educational Technology Coursework
Educational technology, sometimes called instructional technology, primarily interacts with two other majors: curriculum and instruction, and educational leadership.
The curricula in PhD programs typically consist of a broad and challenging range of topics. The blend of applied and social sciences that characterizes educational technology appeals to a unique skill set. For this reason, competent specialists in educational technology tend to stand out.
Furthermore, students will encounter a wide range of cognitive, social, and design theories. Students are encouraged to consider the ethical implications of context and culture in their application across learning spaces and environments. By partaking in innovative experiments and research designs, you will enhance several marketable skills that are essential for this growing field.
Here are some more courses you can expect to take during an online PhD in Educational Technology program:
- Advanced Educational Psychology
- Learning Theories and Instructional Strategies
- Foundations of Learning Design and Technologies
- Research Technology in Educational Environment
- Courseware Design for Computer-Based Instruction
How Much Does Getting an Online Educational Technology PhD Cost?
It costs $19,314 per year , on average, to get an online educational technology PhD, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The actual cost of your educational technology doctoral degree program may be higher or lower depending on the institution you choose to attend. Private institutions generally charge a higher tuition fee than public universities.
Educational resources and technical requirements may also affect the total cost of tuition you will pay. Some schools also have more internal financial aid opportunities than others, as some doctoral programs will offer scholarships and bursaries.
How to Pay for an Online PhD Program in Educational Technology
You can pay for an online PhD program in educational technology by applying for loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities, which are the most common tuition payment methods for PhD students. Additionally, some employers help their employees by paying for a portion or the entirety of their doctoral tuition.
How to Get an Online PhD for Free
You cannot get an online PhD for free. No institutions are offering fully-funded online educational technology degree programs. That being said, you can significantly reduce the cost of your tuition by applying for financial aid. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form to jumpstart the process is the easiest way to do so.
What Is the Most Affordable Online PhD in Educational Technology Degree Program?
The most affordable online PhD in Educational Technology degree program is the PhD in Education and Educational Leadership offered by Drexel University. At only $140 per credit, this 64-credit program will cost you a total of just under $9,000 before fees and other expenses over three years which is about $44,700 less expensive than attending Regent University, the most expensive on our list.
Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in Educational Technology: In Brief
| School | Program | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Drexel University | PhD in Education and Educational Leadership | $140 per credit |
| Concordia University | PhD in Leadership-Education Technology | $270 per credit |
| Indiana University | PhD in Instructional Systems Technology | $444 per credit |
| University Of Illinois | Doctor of Education | $490 per credit |
| Morehead State University | Doctor of Education- Specialization in Educational Technology Leadership | $570 per credit |
Why You Should Get an Online PhD in Educational Technology
You should get an online PhD in Educational Technology because it will open up a wide range of job opportunities with high annual salaries across different sectors. Completing this degree program will help you advance in your career as an educational technologist, course designer, media specialist, or educational software programmer.
Top Reasons for Getting a PhD in Educational Technology
- More job opportunities. If you want to become a more competitive applicant in your job market, you should look into earning a PhD in Educational Technology. A doctoral degree is the highest level of education and will give you a leg up against other applicants during the hiring process.
- Higher earning potential. Completing a doctoral degree program in educational technology will help you significantly increase your earning potential. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, doctoral degree holders earn a higher salary compared to any other degree holders.
- Specialization. A doctoral degree program will give you the best opportunity to specialize in a particular area. Any of the degree programs listed above will help you gain a deeper view of information technology theories and practices and make you a more valuable employee.
- Contribution to the existing body of knowledge. Doctoral students are essential to new discoveries in the industry. Universities and colleges rely on their research to grow the current body of knowledge in all fields of study. Your research could lead to new, internationally recognized breakthroughs in education technology.
Best Master’s Degree Programs
What Is the Difference Between an On-Campus Educational Technology PhD and an Online PhD in Educational Technology?
The difference between an on-campus educational technology PhD and an online PhD in information technology is each program’s flexibility, cost, and funding opportunities, as well as your access to faculty.
Online PhD vs On-Campus PhD: Key Differences
- Flexibility. Online PhD programs are more flexible than on-campus degree programs because they allow you to customize your learning environment to your needs and desires. Online PhD programs are also typically better options for working professionals or part-time students, as many of their classes can be attended asynchronously.
- Cost. The cost of tuition for an online PhD degree program is usually less than an in-person degree program. This is because online students use fewer of the school’s resources and incur fewer transportation or accommodation costs related to their studies.
- Access to faculty. As an online student, you may have more limited access to the school’s faculty. Meanwhile, in-person students can easily seek help from the faculty at any given point while on campus and can easily approach professors before or after class to ask them questions.
- Availability of funding. There are often fewer tuition financing options for online than onsite students. In-person students have more access to fellowships, assistantships, and other financial aid opportunities provided by the university.
How to Get a PhD in Educational Technology Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
To get a PhD in Educational Technology online, you need to apply and get accepted to a PhD program, plan and complete your required coursework, and propose and present your dissertation. After completing all of these steps, as well as any other specific requirements set by the institution you’re attending, you will be able to apply for graduation and get your degree.
Choosing the Right PhD in Educational Technology Program
Today, over six million Americans are pursuing an education online and it isn’t hard to see why. An online PhD is often more convenient and less expensive than a regular one. Moreover, the quality of learning is even higher in some online programs due to the variety of resources available.
Before enrolling in an online degree program, there are several factors you should consider. Firstly, you should try to pursue an affordable PhD program that doesn’t require arbitrary fees, such as graduation or assessment fees. You should also make sure that you are well-equipped with the resources you’ll need to earn your project management degree.
Furthermore, you should research whether your graduate program is asynchronous (self-paced) or not. A self-paced course is preferred by some because you do not have to worry about deadlines or missing early morning classes. Whether you’re working full-time or taking care of your loved ones, the flexibility of distance learning will surely make your life easier.
It is also important to make sure your program is accredited by a legitimate association such as the SACSCOC. This will ensure that you don’t face issues down the road when it comes to transferring credits or seeking employment.
Furthermore, you should make sure your program is reputable and highly-rated among its alumni. You can do so by visiting school websites, checking program reviews, or by contacting schools directly for further information.
Follow our step-by-step guide below to choose the right PhD in Educational Technology online:
Step 1: Choose a University
The first thing you need to do is choose the school and program you want to attend. Make sure to pick an institution that has an accredited program, since this means it’s been vetted by an external body and ensures a high-quality curriculum. You should also look into the reputation of the school and program as well as their graduation rates, faculty credentials, and admission requirements.
Step 2: Submit an Application
If you meet the admission requirements of the online PhD in Educational Technology degree you want to enroll in, fill out and submit an online application form. You’ll need to provide your personal details, education history, and other documents such as your official transcripts and letters of recommendation. Make sure to start early and note down the application deadline.
Step 3: Select Desired Courses
Once you’ve been accepted, choose the specialization courses you want to take that will help you pursue your desired career path. Each doctoral degree program features a unique set of courses, so looking at what courses each program offers before applying to them is a good idea. You can talk to your school’s career counselor or professionals in the field to get help picking the best ones.
Step 4: Finish Coursework
You typically need to complete your coursework within your first two years of study. The total number of courses you need to complete will differ from one program to another. Your course credits will also be split between core, specialization, and elective courses, so plan your course load accordingly.
Step 5: Submit Your Dissertation
Being a research-based degree, you’ll need to complete a dissertation to graduate. To do so, you’ll first need to get your dissertation topic approved by your instructor before starting your research. Your progress will be monitored by your professors and you will need to defend your dissertation when you submit it.
Online PhD in Educational Technology Salary and Job Outlook
The online PhD in Educational Technology salary and job outlook is promising. You can expect a base salary of $82,000 per year with an educational technology PhD , according to PayScale. The salary you actually earn will depend on your occupation, level of experience, and employer.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook of instructional coordinators is 10 percent between 2020 and 2030. You can expect more than 18,400 job opportunities in the next decade and, as you gain experience, you’ll be able to earn much more than the amount mentioned above.
What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Educational Technology?
With an online Doctorate in Educational Technology, you can work as an instructional technologist, e-learning developer, chief academic officer, course designer, computer instructor, or educational specialist. These are well-respected jobs with a projected job growth rate higher than the national average.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Educational Technology
- Instructional designer
- E-learning developer
- Course designer
- Computer instructor
- Chief academic officer
Potential Careers With an Educational Technology Degree
What Is the Average Salary for an Online PhD Holder in Educational Technology?
The average salary for an online PhD holder in educational technology is $82,000 per year. You can increase your salary potential by acquiring professional certifications or gaining work experience. Below, you’ll find a table of the highest-paying educational technology jobs for PhD grads.
Highest-Paying Educational Technology Jobs for PhD Grads
| Online Educational Technology PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Chief Academic Officer | $150,000 |
| Educational Specialist | $68,949 |
| Instructional Technologist | $63,984 |
| E-learning Developer | $58,958 |
| Media specialist | $56,334 |
Best Educational Technology Jobs for Online PhD Holders
The best educational technology jobs for online PhD holders come with high salaries and job growth. In the following section, we’ve broken down in detail the job responsibilities, outlook, salary, and highest paying states of each educational technology job mentioned above to help you plan your career path.
Chief Academic Officer
PhD Salary: $150,000
A chief academic officer is in charge of overseeing and planning a college or university’s educational programs to ensure that students get the best learning experience possible. Their specific responsibilities can differ depending on the institution, but these professionals play a vital part in ensuring that students graduate prepared to enter the workforce in their chosen field.
- Salary with an Educational Technology PhD: $150,000
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 13,500
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Washington, Rhode Island
Educational Specialist
PhD Salary: $68,949
Education specialists are in charge of the evaluation of curriculum plans, teaching styles, and individual lessons. They often help in coordinating and communicating expectations to teachers, students, and parents. In this job role, you can expect to work with administrators and teachers on a daily basis.
- Salary with an Educational Technology PhD: $68,949
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 35,500
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Rhode Island, Washington Vermont
Instructional Technologist
PhD Salary: $63,984
An instructional technologist’s main job responsibility is to provide classroom support to learners and teachers. The professionals also provide resources for teachers and cater to the school’s technological needs. As education continues to become more and more dependent on technology, so will the need for these professionals increase.
- Salary with an Educational Technology PhD: $63,984
- Job Outlook: 10% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 18,400
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, Oregon, Connecticut, Maryland
E-learning Developer
PhD Salary: $58,958
E-learning developers are responsible for designing and implementing the structure of online education. They ensure e-learning tools are functional and reliable. Instructional developers provide these developers with the course content, then they design and code the course.
- Salary with an Educational Technology PhD: $58,958
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 35,500
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, District of Columbia, Rhode Island, Washington Vermont
Media specialist
PhD Salary: $56,334
A media specialist works in the communication and marketing department of an institution and are responsible for managing and efficiently storing audio recordings, design software, and video recordings. These professionals need to be able to create websites for online learning centers and must be extremely familiar with computer technology.
- Salary with an Educational Technology PhD: $56,334
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 31,200
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, New York, Virginia, California
Is It Worth It to Do a PhD in Educational Technology Online?
Yes, it is worth it to do PhD in Educational Technology online. If you are a working professional or someone with many other responsibilities looking for a career advancement, an online degree program is best suited for you. An online Doctorate in Educational Technology program will give you a flexible and convenient learning environment in which you can pursue your education and balance your work.
An online PhD in Educational Technology program is much cheaper than an in-person one and this lower cost will not affect the quality of education you will receive. Online students receive the same high-quality curriculum in-person PhD students do, meaning that, as an online learner, you will have similar learning outcomes to in-person students.
Additional Reading About Educational Technology
Online PhD in Educational Technology FAQ
No, you can’t get a doctoral degree in educational technology in less than a year. The degree program requires you to complete an average of 60 academic credits, capstone projects, and academic essays on top of a dissertation process. It would be impossible to complete all these requirements in less than one year.
No, you do not need a doctoral degree in educational technology to earn a higher salary. Although professionals who are PhD holders usually earn a higher salary than other degree holders, you can also increase your salary potential by acquiring professional certifications, getting more experience, or changing employers.
Yes, distance learning is better than onsite learning for a PhD in education technology if you are a working professional needing a flexible and convenient schedule in which to learn. Otherwise, an in-person degree will typically be better in helping you achieve your career goals.
You can apply for top job opportunities in the field of education after acquiring an online educational technology PhD degree. There are multiple job opportunities for educational technology PhD holders such as that of a chief academic officer, course designer, instructional specialist, or e-learning developer.
