The Ed.D and the Ph.D in Education: Is There a Fundamental Dichotomy Between Both Terminal Degrees?
Dr. Canute McKenzie JP, Ed.D., M.A., B.A. (Hons.)
About Author
Dr. Canute McKenzie JP, Ed.D., M.A., B.A. (Hons.), is an Adjunct Lecturer in Education and Theology at the Midland Bible Institute, Jamaica. A retired principal and academician with a doctorate in education, his research focuses on stakeholder education. He also serves his community as a Justice of the Peace, pastoral counselor, and senior pastor.
Abstract
The dichotomy between the Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) and the Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) in education has been debated among academicians and educators. Thus, this essay provides an in-depth evaluation of the dichotomy between the Ed.D. and the Ph.D. in education. An inclusive review of existing literature was executed. The data findings unveil that whilst both postgraduate terminal degree programmes are tailored to equip individuals for administrative and educational leadership roles in education, the Doctor of Education degree concentrates on the application of theoretical knowledge to address practical issues or challenges in the classroom and administration, whilst the Doctor of Philosophy degree focuses on theoretical research, university teaching, and academic scholarship; thus, the practitioner (Ed.D.) versus the academic researcher (Ph.D.). Thus, each plays a unique role, and neither takes precedence over the other.