doctoral study in education

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by jgaddy33688, Sep 1, 2008.

Loading...
  1. jgaddy33688

    jgaddy33688 Member

    I am seeking advise on pursuing a doctoral degree. As for my background, I am active military and plan to retire in 2010. I am looking to continue my education to better prepare myself after service. I hold a MPA and would like to work at some level of government and/or adjunct.

    I have seen a number of schools with Ed.d programs that seem achieveable based on price, location etc but wonder if a doctoral degree in teaching/learning would do me any good.

    I would assume that my MPA would qualify me to teach public administration and get a local government job. Would the Ed.d help me get into an adjunct position since it is different from my masters and my twenty years of experience?
    thanks for any guidance.
     
  2. Rich Douglas

    Rich Douglas Well-Known Member

    Consider doing a degree in your area of expertise rather than an Ed.D. This will enhance your ability to get teaching positions in your area of expertise.

    Also, keep in mind that doctoral study is unique: you're attempting to become a noted expert in your chosen field. Are you trying to make your academic mark in education or in public administration (or somewhere else)? Choose that.
     
  3. makana793

    makana793 New Member

    Rich, you bring up some good points. Jgdaddy brings up some good points as well. Would he better off served with a Ed.D in Teaching/Learning or something similar? In other words is it better to broaden yourself as opposed to remaining specialized? Jgdaddy might be referring to the Ed.D from Liberty. With the military TA it's definitely worth looking at, I'm even giving that program a serious look as well. He would be basically only be paying for books and travel for the residencies.
     
  4. Rich Douglas

    Rich Douglas Well-Known Member

    Typically, one does not broaden one's self by doing a doctorate. The doctorate is the very definition of specialization, including the Ed.D. That person becomes an expert in some very narrow aspect of education. It is presumed one would subsequently work in that area.
     
  5. jgaddy33688

    jgaddy33688 Member

    I appreciate the advise. I was thinking about Liberty because of the military discount. I understand your point about specialization at the doctoral level. Thanks again for the guidance.
     
  6. makana793

    makana793 New Member

    Thanks for the guidance Rich.
     
  7. Bruce

    Bruce Moderator

  8. jgaddy33688

    jgaddy33688 Member

    Bruce,
    I have looked at the VSU program. I am very interested in this program. I have not contacted the school directly yet but I wonder how difficult it is to get accepted into the DPA program. Also, would it be more likely that one would get accepted if they went to the university in person and talked with the faculty?? If anyone has experience with the selection process, please illuminate.

    thanks again!
     
  9. Bruce

    Bruce Moderator

    No problem! There's at least one member here who's a DPA distance student at VSU, but for the life of me I can't remember who.

    As for admissions, I can't imagine an in-person visit by a potential DL student would be looked upon as anything but favorable by the admissions people.
     
  10. Ian Anderson

    Ian Anderson Active Member

     

Share This Page