Doctor of Education, Ed.D.

Why earn your Ed.D. at University of Idaho?

Whether you’re looking to move up in your current field or pivot to new opportunities, this online Ed.D. program is designed to help you take the next step:

• 100% online format — Take classes from anywhere, with a blend of live (synchronous) and on-your-time (asynchronous) block courses.

• Grounded in Improvement Science: Develop expertise in Improvement Science — an interdisciplinary, applied approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement. This methodology equips you to lead change initiatives across diverse industries and organizational contexts.

• Practice-based terminal degree — Earn the highest academic credential while applying research to your current workplace.

• Embedded dissertation — Complete your dissertation within your coursework with tailored support from industry leading faculty mentors.

• Three-year timeline — Complete courses in blocks for focused progress.

• Interdisciplinary cohort model — Meet the professionals you’ll learn with during an immersive on-campus experience.

• Dedicated student support — Access one-on-one advising, a virtual writing center and academic services built for online learners.

• Industry-leading faculty — Study with experienced scholars and practitioners actively shaping their fields.

• Flexible admissions — Apply with a master’s degree or at least five years of relevant professional experience.

Apply now

Online Doctor of Education Program Details

Degree fit

This program is built for self-motivated professionals ready to lead change. You’re a strong candidate if you:

• Want to grow as a leader or step into a leadership role in your organization

• Are eager to conduct actionable, real-world research

• Thrive working independently in an online format

Curriculum and courses

Complete the 54-credit program over three years.

From the start, you’ll design and lead original research rooted in your professional setting. The dissertation is integrated into your coursework, ensuring steady progress without added barriers at the end of your program.

You’ll develop practical skills in program evaluation, improvement science and case study

Career Outcomes

The Ed.D. opens doors to leadership roles in corporate development, nonprofit management, government, healthcare, education and consulting.

Whether you’re advancing within your current organization or exploring new directions, this degree helps you lead with clarity, drive change and create measurable impact.

Problem of Practice Dissertation

At the heart of the program is your problem of practice — a dissertation focused on real-world impact.

Working with your faculty committee, you’ll shape a dissertation project aligned with your goals, industry and workplace. This hands-on learning experience allows you to lead strategic initiatives, measure outcomes and build a research portfolio that directly supports your future.

It’s more than a capstone — it’s your launchpad.

Application information

Get started by reviewing the admissions requirements:

• Education: Master’s degree or at least 5 years of industry experience

• GPA: 3.0+ (flexible for applicants with professional experience)

• GRE: Not required

• International applicants: TOEFL 79 or IELTS 6.5

• Letters of recommendation: Two (one from a place of employment or organization)