While both degrees allow you to be called "Doctor" and are recognized for university faculty roles, they serve different professional trajectories:
The EdD prepares educators to become "researching professionals". While candidates still engage in rigorous inquiry, their work is usually situated within a —a specific, persistent issue within their own school, district, or organization. doctorate of education
The is a professional terminal degree designed for experienced practitioners who want to apply research and leadership to solve real-world problems in educational settings. Unlike the research-heavy PhD, which focuses on developing new theories, the EdD is a "practitioner’s doctorate" focused on systemic change and institutional improvement. Core Purpose and Scope While both degrees allow you to be called
School administrators, principals, superintendents, and higher education leaders. Unlike the research-heavy PhD, which focuses on developing
Strategic planning, policy analysis, organizational change, and data-driven decision-making. EdD vs. PhD in Education
Practical application of educational theory and leadership.