Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE DOCTORATE IN EDUCATION

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley

Updated: Apr 11, 2024

Key Takeaways

It may be possible for professional educators to finish an online doctorate degree in three years or less.
A PhD in Education degree is best for educators who are interested in participating in the scientific research of educational issues.
An EdD in Education degree is best for educators who want to participate in the implementation of solutions and best practices in education.

New York University
Liberty University
Ashland University
Baker University
Lipscomb University
Walden University
Monmouth University
Milligan University
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Northcentral University

Liberty University 99%
Baker University 92%
Monmouth University 91%
Alverno College 90%
University of the Cumberlands 83%
Bay Path University 76%
Ashland University 72%
Lipscomb University 71%
University of Louisiana at Monroe 70%
Milligan University 67%

Walden University 21 to 1
Liberty University 18 to 1
University of the Cumberlands 18 to 1
University of Louisiana at Monroe 17 to 1
Baker University 13 to 1
Lipscomb University 13 to 1
Monmouth University 12 to 1
Ashland University 11 to 1
Bay Path University 11 to 1
Milligan University 9 to 1

New York University $58,168
Monmouth University $43,216
Milligan University $37,550
Lipscomb University $37,152
Bay Path University $35,781
Baker University $32,320
Alverno College $31,858
Ashland University $24,140
Liberty University $22,511
Walden University $12,483

New York University $37,332
Monmouth University $32,352
Bay Path University $19,235
Lipscomb University $17,370
Northcentral University $16,794
Baker University $11,466
Walden University $9,902
Alverno College $9,744
Liberty University $7,893
Ashland University $7,656

Bay Path University
University of the Cumberlands
Alverno College
Northcentral University
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Milligan University
Monmouth University
Walden University
Lipscomb University
Baker University

Bay Path University
University of the Cumberlands
Alverno College
Northcentral University
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Milligan University
Monmouth University
Walden University
Lipscomb University
Baker University

New York University 12%
Milligan University 67%
University of Louisiana at Monroe 70%
Lipscomb University 71%
Ashland University 72%
Bay Path University 76%
University of the Cumberlands 83%
Alverno College 90%
Monmouth University 91%
Baker University 92%

Northcentral University 1 to 1
New York University 8 to 1
Alverno College 8 to 1
Milligan University 9 to 1
Ashland University 11 to 1
Bay Path University 11 to 1
Monmouth University 12 to 1
Baker University 13 to 1
Lipscomb University 13 to 1
University of Louisiana at Monroe 17 to 1

University of Louisiana at Monroe $5,788
University of the Cumberlands $9,875
Northcentral University $11,064
Walden University $12,483
Liberty University $22,511
Ashland University $24,140
Alverno College $31,858
Baker University $32,320
Bay Path University $35,781
Lipscomb University $37,152

University of the Cumberlands $4,282
University of Louisiana at Monroe $6,490
Milligan University $7,015
Ashland University $7,656
Liberty University $7,893
Alverno College $9,744
Walden University $9,902
Baker University $11,466
Northcentral University $16,794
Lipscomb University $17,370

Table of Contents

What is an accelerated online doctorate program in education?

Traditional doctorate degree programs in education typically require six to eight years to complete, longer if the degree is pursued on a part-time basis. This is a huge commitment!

The good news is that there are programs that can be completed in as little as 2-3 years! Accelerated PhD programs in education are shorter yet made more comprehensive and intense than traditional doctorate degree programs.

Accelerated online doctoral degree programs are designed for students who want to take a shorter route toward a PhD or doctorate degree.

However, these accelerated programs are not for the faint of heart. They are accomplished by completing the same amount of work in a shorter time frame. They enable students to waive two to three years of schooling to be ready for the job market more quickly.

Completing an accelerated online PhD program in education provides the same learning outcome as taking classes via a traditional on-campus PhD program. But completing this program can provide an early return on investment.

Each of the accelerated online PhD in education degree programs that we feature below can be completed in four years or less.

Why should you consider an accelerated online PhD in education degree?

The fastest online PhD of education and EdD in education programs provide ambitious individuals with the opportunity to earn the most advanced degree in education. Individuals who have earned terminal degrees can assume the honorary title and designation “Doctor” in their professional careers and be recognized for their authority, expertise, and credibility in their specialization.

Earning an accelerated doctoral degree also opens opportunities for career advancement that a master’s degree cannot, usually in the upper echelons of higher education institutions.

Who should consider earning an accelerated doctorate of education?

Students interested in taking their career to its highest potential should consider a doctorate of education.

For PhD and EdD in education degree holders, the wider variety of choices in administration and management, writing and publishing, and research, both in the public and private sectors, make the significant investments well worth it.

For professionals passionate about using advanced research methodologies in the in-depth examination of current educational issues, earning a doctoral degree makes sense! The ability to perform sound and sophisticated research in exploring solutions to complex issues can make a meaningful impact on education.

Professionals with a deep desire to lead education-related organizations will also find a doctoral degree in education valuable. While a love for lifelong learning is emphasized in online doctorate programs, students are also strongly encouraged to lead! This is particularly true for the practice-centric EdD in educational leadership degree programs.

Of course, earning a doctoral degree pays off in the long run! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals with a doctorate earned $1,909 in median weekly earnings—or $335 more than those with a master’s degree. Furthermore, their unemployment rate was lower at 1.5%—in comparison, master’s degree holders have a 2.6% unemployment rate.

The bottom line: The higher your education, the better your opportunities for a rewarding career over your professional life!

What to Expect from the Fastest Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs

The best and fastest online doctoral degree programs come in two types—a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Doctor of Education (EdD). While these are both terminal degrees, there are significant differences that prospective students must be aware of before making their choice.

The PhD in Education degree qualifies its holders for academic research and teaching positions in colleges and universities. Many PhD holders are also involved in educational research for nonprofit organizations, think tanks, and education-related companies.

Students learn advanced research methodologies, both in the quantitative and qualitative aspects, as well as in the identification of gaps in current research. Candidates must produce new and original research that will enhance their knowledge in the field of education.

The EdD in Education degree is suitable for professionals who want to be involved or are already involved in educational leadership positions and want more career advancement opportunities in this area.

The best EdD programs combine research skills and application of solutions, but there’s more emphasis on practice than on theory. The end goal is bringing productive changes to organizations through effective, efficient, and responsive solutions.

Key Point: The time-to-completion in accelerated EdD programs also varies depending on the program and the students’ matriculation and determination. Two-year programs do exist, but part-time students can take 3-5 years to complete them. There’s also a residency component, but there’s no usually dissertation requirement. Of course, there are exceptions.

Ranking Methodology for Accelerated Online Education PhDs

With that being said, do you have a keen interest in earning a doctoral degree, despite challenges, costs, and all?

Then, take a look at our list of the fastest online doctoral degrees in education programs!

We chose these accelerated online programs based on the following criteria:

Regionally accredited institution offers the fast-track program
Academic excellence and impactful research contributions are crucial aspects of the accelerated programs
Institutional support in the form of funding, professor-to-student mentorship, and student networking
Overall reputation as an education of higher institution
Exceptional student support services
A shortened time to completion of no more than three years

Fastest Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs

Career Outlook for Students with Education Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Educational Leadership And Administration

Degree Level: Doctorate

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Cost of Degree*: $11,580
Avg. Expenses*: $18,273
Avg. Starting Salary*: $92,453
Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 8 years
Job Growth: 0.66%
Number of Jobs: 671,600
* denotes ‘annually’
** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
Training and Development Managers	7.41%	$125,040
Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary	-0.51%	$103,460
Education Administrators, Postsecondary	2.91%	$102,610
Education Administrators, All Other	2.43%	$88,460
Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare	-2.10%	$54,290

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
Training and Development Managers	$125,040
Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary	$103,460
Education Administrators, Postsecondary	$102,610
Education Administrators, All Other	$88,460
Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare	$54,290

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Admissions Requirements

The admission requirements, criteria, and process among online doctoral degree programs differ, too, primarily depending on whether it’s a PhD or an EdD program.

On one hand, PhD degree programs are more likely to emphasize academic prowess and research capability and, thus, place a heavy emphasis on undergraduate and/or graduate academic performance, research projects, and standardized test scores.

Many PhD programs don’t even require a master’s degree and/or work experience if the prospective student has demonstrated exceptional academic and research potential.

On the other hand, EdD degree programs usually require prospective students to have extensive first-hand experiences with systemic real-world problems. The reason: Candidates for the doctorate degree are required to propose viable solutions for the specific issues they have identified. The best way is first-hand exposure to the causes and effects of the identified issue through extensive work experiences.

With that being said, prospective doctoral students must be prepared to comply with these typical admission requirements to PhD and EdD in Education degree programs:

Either a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in education and other related specializations, usually with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA for selective programs
Professional experience in education and other related fields, usually a minimum of 3-5 years, in a supervisory capacity
Personal statement that demonstrates your readiness and preparation for postgraduate study (There may or may not be a required format provided)
Letters of recommendation from supervisors, professors, and other professional references
Resume or curriculum vitae that highlight your education, accomplishments and professional experiences relevant to the doctorate degree program you’re applying for

Additional Requirements

Many PhD and EdD degree programs also conduct interviews with applicants to determine their readiness and preparation for the rigors ahead. The best applicants demonstrate not only academic and research prowess but also effective time management, organization, and stress management skills, among other traits. These qualities will be especially important in an accelerated degree program.

Note that doctoral degree programs tend to be selective in their admissions for many reasons, foremost among them their reputation in the academe as a producer of successful doctorate degree holders. Because of this, PhD candidates should ensure that they are properly prepared and able to make a compelling argument as to why they should be accepted into the program.

Time-to-completion

The time-to-completion for online doctoral programs varies widely from two years for EdD programs to five years for PhD programs. But an accelerated online program can reduce time-to-completion and, thus, decrease the costs, too. These factors combined can make what might not have been possible for some, due to life and monetary circumstances, become a reality as they pursue higher education.

In traditional PhD degree programs, the specifics will vary but the typical year-to-year progression can be:

First year: Completion of advanced coursework
Second year: Completion of more advanced coursework and start of preparation for comprehensive exams
Third year: Study for and pass the comprehensive exam while also starting research on your dissertation proposal
Fourth year: Pass your dissertation proposal for approval and, once approved, start work on your dissertation
Fifth year: Complete your dissertation, submit it to the committee for approval, and defend it followed by applying for graduation once you passed the final defense

Note that the fastest online PhD programs in education often combine the first and second year, and the fourth and fifth year, shortening the time to graduation.

Key Point: Typical timelines to graduation in a traditional PhD degree program are 5-8 years of full-time study, research, and writing. However, an accelerated degree program can be completed in as little as two years.

Factors in Degree Completion Time

What are the factors that contribute to the length of time it takes to complete a doctorate degree, particularly a PhD or EdD in Education?

First, the dissertation is the most challenging part—researching, writing and rewriting, and defending it isn’t for the faint of heart and mind. The challenge lies in making a new, original, and notable contribution to the existing body of knowledge—and the devil is always in the details with dissertations.

Second, the obligations that come with teaching and research assistantships can get in the way of writing your dissertation. Aside from your postgraduate coursework, you will be expected to teach at least one course every term or work as a research assistant. While assistantships pay for part of your tuition, these come with time-bound obligations.

If assistantship funding stops, then you have to find paid work for your education and living expenses. This will take time away from writing your dissertation and extend your time-to-completion.

There’s the possibility of being part of the ABD army—All But the Dissertation. The requirement for candidates to have their papers published in peer-reviewed academic journals can extend their time-to-completion by two years or more.

And then there are your personal commitments, too, particularly to your family and especially if you’re the breadwinner. While these are unpleasant realities, it is better to be prepared on the front end so that you know you can stick to your commitments.

Key Point: careful planning, surrounding yourself with a strong support system, and setting realistic expectations are a must for success, and will help to keep the length of the degree program to a minimum.

Number of Credits in Education Doctorates and PhDs

The required number of credits for completion in online doctoral programs varies between 60 credits (EdD) and 90 credits (PhD), but it can be lower or higher. The actual number is also influenced by the concentration, the university’s policy, and the state requirements (e.g., Ohio requires a 60-credit minimum beyond a bachelor’s degree).

A credit hour in doctoral degree programs refers to the amount of time required for course completion, and the time can include classroom lectures, research work, and dissertation work.

In most universities, a postgraduate course can be 3-4 credits and each credit equals 30 hours’ worth of work. This means about 90-120 hours’ worth of lessons and research.

Students can reduce the number of credits they have to complete in the doctorate degree program by transferring credits from a master’s degree, from professional credentials and work experiences, and from military training. Transferring credits can significantly shorten the time to program completion. This is especially important when a student wants to finish a degree as quickly as possible.

For example, a superintendent’s license can be worth 15 credits in a doctorate program.

Tuition and Fees

Even with less commuting and incidental costs, prospective doctoral students in online programs must be aware of the total cost of attendance. In short order, earning a doctorate degree in education is an expensive proposition! This is true even with funding support like scholarships, grants, and assistantships so much so that student loans are common.

According to Education Data, the average cost for an EdD degree is $111,900 while a PhD degree is $98,800 but doctorate degree holders can incur $108,400 in average student debt.

Of doctorate students, more than 47% use their own resources to finance their degree completion; the average grant aid varies from $10,520 to $12,811 annually.

Bottom Line: The numbers will, indeed, give you second thoughts about pursuing an accelerated online doctorate degree! Keep your eyes on the prize of better career advancement opportunities, higher pay, and lower unemployment rate and the costs will not seem so overwhelming.

Coursework and Concentrations

Online programs usually have the same coursework as on-campus programs, even the same on-campus faculty members leading online classes. But there will be differences in the core coursework based on the concentration or specialization.

Doctoral students in accelerated online programs can choose from several concentrations like:

Education Policy and Program Evaluation
Reading and Literacy
Educational Leadership and Management
Adult Education
Community College Leadership
Curriculum and Instruction
Multiculturalism and Diversity
Early Childhood Education
Education Policy

The online courses in the fastest education degree programs are just as varied—and challenging—due to their advanced concepts and framework. Some students expect to have an easier time with online learning. They will be surprised when they find the coursework just as rigorous as their on-campus counterparts. Because of this, students should make sure they are prepared for the courses involved in an online program.

Typical courses include:

Advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods
Case studies and research in higher education policy and practice
Curriculum theory
Theoretical perspectives in educational settings
Principles and practices of educational administration
Learning theories and educational processes
Dissertation research and writing

Key Point: Before applying to an online doctorate program, be sure to check the curriculum and course descriptions, if any, to determine if these are suitable for your desired field of expertise.

The Online Learning Experience of an Online PhD in Education

The best accelerated online programs offering doctorate degrees in education have the same curriculum, degree requirements, and academic expectations as on-campus programs. But their difference lies in the delivery of online courses—through a learning management system (LMS) and other digital technologies.

This is true for both traditional and accelerated doctoral programs in terms of delivery, but doctoral students in the latter should expect more academic rigor.

Students in the fastest online doctorate programs, nonetheless, can expect the following aspects of online education:

Access to learning materials, resources, and references for the online courses is via a cloud-based platform
Submission of assignments and other academic requirements is also done via the same platform
Synchronous and asynchronous classes are common
Peer-to-peer and professor-to-student interactions can be made via the LMS and other technologies, such as Zoom and social media

The best online programs also provide doctoral students with exceptional student support services. These include tech support, library services, tutorial, mental health counseling services, writing, and career services.

The Bottom Line: Beware of falling into complacency with online programs having less structure than on-campus programs! Particularly in an accelerated degree program, there will be deadlines to meet, academic and assistantship obligations to comply with, and professors and peers to deal with.

Tips for Making the Most of Accelerated Doctoral Education Program

What does this all mean for prospective students of the fastest online doctoral degrees in education programs? It means that choosing the right program and taking care to prepare yourself is key to avoiding burnout and achieving success. An accelerated PhD is not for the faint of heart, so prospective students should ensure that their life circumstances and personal preferences can handle and desire to take on this fast-paced program.

Looking for information on even more accelerated degrees? Check out our in-depth guide to fast online rankings if you are looking to get your accelerated doctorate degree as quickly as possible while still getting a quality education.

Keep these tips in mind when you’re considering applying for admission into these programs.

Know yourself and your personal and professional goals. Know your purpose and passion for pursuing either a PhD or an EdD in education because it will be your best motivation to keep going when the going gets tough—really, really tough.

Research the programs you’re interested in—curriculum and courses, years to completion, tuition and other fees, financial aid, graduation requirements including residency and dissertation, and institutional support and resources. The more you know, the smarter your decision can be, and the better your chances of earning your desired doctorate.

Know what you want to pursue in the first place—a PhD with its emphasis on academic research or an EdD with its focus on practice and implementation. Choosing the right doctorate degree can mean actually earning it and, thus, benefiting from it!

The Bottom Line:

Don’t forget to look at the career advancement opportunities that you’ve set your sights on, too. If the type of jobs you’re aiming for only require a master’s degree and/or professional certifications, then a doctorate degree will likely not make sense, time- and money-wise.

But if you have big and bold ideas, or you want to make a huge impact in your field, or you have a wealth of research questions, then you’re likely to thrive in online doctorate degree programs.

The Challenge of an Accelerated Online Doctorate of Education

It isn’t a bed of roses for students in acclerated online doctoral degree programs! With advanced education comes significant investments in time, effort, and money, even in making sacrifices that will compromise your relationships and professional career.

Attrition rates in doctoral degree programs in North America are also high, with an estimated 40%-50% of students not completing their degrees.

The most cited reasons are the expensive costs of earning a terminal degree (i.e., tuition and other fees), the lack of institutional support (i.e., funding and other resources from the university), and the extraordinary workload resulting in stress and burnout. Students who feel a lack of support, in any area, are the most likely to drop out of their program.

This is particularly true for students in accelerated programs with fast-track coursework and intense pressure to complete the dissertation and other requirements. The pressure can cause mental health issues to be exacerbated and physical health to decline.

Furthermore, there’s little to no guarantee of the anticipated career advancement opportunities and their promised higher salaries and greater impact.

Bottom Line: Professionals with either a PhD or an EdD must still work hard and work smart to leverage their terminal degree—networking, creating an attractive curriculum vitae and image, and applying for jobs are your ultimate responsibility.

Career Options for Doctorate in Education Degree Holders

Professionals with an EdD in Education degree usually have a wider variety of employment opportunities, from K-12 schools and higher education institutions to civic service and nonprofit sectors. They will typically specialize in a subfield which will be helpful as they enter their career. The typical fields holders of Doctorates in Education are administration, policy, academia, consulting, and more.

The possible job titles include:

Chief academic or learning officers
Instructional and curriculum coordinators
Postsecondary education administrators
Elementary and high school education administrators
Educational Consultant
Instructional Designer
Educational Research Specialist
International Education Consultant
Public Policy Maker

Professionals with a PhD in Education degree pursue academic research and teaching positions and, thus, become college and university professors with research projects. Becoming professional researchers in diverse settings, as previously mentioned, is also a rewarding career. They also might be a dean, department chair, or academic affairs director.

Besides seeking teaching positions, holders of doctorates in education could also become a school principal, administrator, or superintendent, overseeing the daily operations of grade or high schools. They might also become a director of curriculum and instruction, creating and implementing programs or curricula into schools. An educational consultant is another role students could choose, advising schools and educational companies on curriculum design and best practices.

There are still others who choose to use their knowledge and put it towards policy change and advocacy. They might research and develop education policies for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups. They might work in educational nonprofits to help underserved communities.

Student Submitted Questions on the Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs

Fay asks, “What is the cost structure of an accelerated online PhD?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: This can vary significantly depending on the institution you are a part of and the program’s features. Geographical location and program length are two of the most important factors to consider. However, most students will have to pay for tuition, technology fees, books and material, brief on-campus residencies or intensives (yes, even for online students), research costs, dissertation or thesis expenses, and miscellaneous fees. Financial aid and scholarships can greatly reduce overall cost, so make sure to look into what is available for you.

Theo asks, “How do students engage in research activities in an online PhD?”

Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: Research activities for online students involves independent study, virtual collaboration, and, in some cases, field work. Students will begin a research proposal and further their research by meeting with their advisor through online meetings, emails, and whatever other form of communication is expected by the school. Depending on the nature of a student’s research, he or she might be able to collect data from virtual interviews or digital experiences. Software tools have become increasingly advanced in recent years so that data analysis can be completed remotely. Obviously, the specifics of this will change depending on the program you are a part of, so make sure to check with your advisor or the admissions office.

Laney asks, “Is there support or guidance available for students working on their dissertation remotely?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: Yes. Remote programs have come a long way in recent years and are now able to offer crucial support to online students. Online PhD in Education students will work closely with a dissertation advisor or mentor who will provide guidance to students during their course of study. There will also be virtual meetings, online writing centers and resources, and digital libraries and databases. Many programs also facilitate peer support groups that meet online and support each other throughout their program.

Jack asks, “Which doctorate degree in education is the most difficult?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer:

Both have their fair share of challenges but many experts agree that EdD degree programs can be more challenging because of an added layer—identifying a specific problem and proposing a viable solution for it.

Such a practical approach can be more challenging because of the myriad of factors in real-world settings that can affect the viability of the proposed solution.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here

Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024

Key Takeaways

Fastest Online PhDs in Education

What is an accelerated online doctorate program in education?

Why should you consider an accelerated online PhD in education degree?

Who should consider earning an accelerated doctorate of education?

What to Expect from the Fastest Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs

Ranking Methodology for Accelerated Online Education PhDs

Fastest Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs

Career Outlook for Education degree at New York University

What we love about NYU:

Career Outlook for Education degree at Liberty University

What we love about Liberty University:

Liberty University’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Career Outlook for Education degree at Ashland University

What we love about Ashland University:

Career Outlook for Education degree at Baker University

What we love about Baker University:

Baker University’s Online Degrees

Career Outlook for Education degree at Lipscomb University

What we love about Lipscomb University:

Lipscomb University’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Career Outlook for Education degree at Walden University

What we love about Walden University:

Career Outlook for Education degree at Monmouth University

What we love about Monmouth University:

What we love about Milligan University:

Career Outlook for Education degree at University of Louisiana at Monroe

What we love about ULM:

What we love about NCU:

Career Outlook for Education degree at Alverno College

What we love about Alverno College:

Career Outlook for Education degree at University of the Cumberlands

What we love about UCumberlands:

University of the Cumberlands’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Career Outlook for Education degree at Bay Path University

What we love about Bay Path:

Bay Path University’s Online Degrees

Career Outlook for Students with Education Degree

Educational Leadership And Administration

Degree Level: Doctorate

Career Salaries

Top Industries

Admissions Requirements

Additional Requirements

Time-to-completion

Factors in Degree Completion Time

Number of Credits in Education Doctorates and PhDs

Tuition and Fees

Coursework and Concentrations

The Online Learning Experience of an Online PhD in Education

Tips for Making the Most of Accelerated Doctoral Education Program

The Challenge of an Accelerated Online Doctorate of Education

Career Options for Doctorate in Education Degree Holders

Student Submitted Questions on the Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs