What are career options for graduates of the Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership program?

An Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership opens doors to a wide range of leadership roles across various sectors, including education, healthcare, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and private corporations. Potential job titles include, but are not limited to: Corporate CEO/COO/CFO Chief Learning Officer Organizational Development Director Higher Education Administrator (Dean, Provost) Non-Profit Executive Director Corporate Training and Development Leader Educational Consultant Policy Maker School Superintendent/School Principal These roles emphasize strategic leadership, change management, policy development, and organizational improvement, allowing Ed.D. graduates to create change and transform leadership.

How long does it take to earn an online Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership?

At most institutions, it will take a student three to four years to earn this doctoral degree. But thanks to changes and updates made to the Ed.D. at University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global), students can now earn this prestigious degree in two years. This has been made possible by UMass Global embedding the student’s research and dissertation into their existing coursework. So, while the student completes their two years of coursework, they will, at the same time, be working through their dissertation. This allows students to complete the program in two years, rather than having to devote their third year solely to their dissertation, as is the case at other institutions. This timeframe assumes the student will take two courses in each session: Fall I and II, Spring I and II, and Summer I and II in their first year. Half of those are research courses, working toward their dissertation. In the second year, two courses in Fall I and II and Spring I and II, and then working solely on their dissertation in Summer I and Summer II. Possible transfer credits can also speed the attainment of your Ed.D. at UMass Global. You can receive up to 12 credits for master’s and doctoral coursework in a field related to organizational leadership.

How is the Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership different from a Ph.D. in a similar field?

The primary difference between an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership and a Ph.D. in a similar field lies in their focus and intended career paths. An Ed.D. is designed for professionals aiming to apply leadership principles directly within their organizations or in educational settings, focusing on practical application and problem-solving strategies. Conversely, a Ph.D. tends to be more research-oriented, preparing individuals for careers in academia or research, with a deep focus on theoretical foundations and empirical research methodologies. While both degrees are prestigious, the choice between them should be based on your career goals and preferences for practical application versus theoretical research.

Is it worth it to earn an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership?

Absolutely. Earning an Ed.D. (Doctor of Education) in Organizational Leadership is an investment in your future leadership capabilities and career advancement. This degree prepares you to effect positive change, enhance organizational effectiveness, and improve your leadership skills in various settings. Graduates often find that the knowledge and competencies gained significantly impact their professional opportunities, salary potential, and ability to drive strategic initiatives within organizations.

Doctoral Degrees

School_District_Administrator_talking_to _group

A Major Achievement

UMass Global’s Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership equips you to tackle complex challenges, drive change, and lead high-performing teams across education, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. Fully online and designed for working professionals, the program includes three immersive virtual weekends focused on leadership competencies and networking. Students apply real-world learning while building strong peer and faculty relationships. In fact, 50% of our Ed.D. students reported promotions or new roles while still in the program, according to our 2023 Summer Exit Survey — highlighting the degree’s immediate career impact.

Graduate Admission

Applying for a credential, master's, or doctoral degree program? Research the requirements for your program, fill out the online application and request your official transcripts.

Graduate Financial Aid

Learn about financial aid available for graduate and professional degree students in the form of institutional and outside scholarships, as well as non-need based loans.

Programs Offered

2 Yrs

100% Online

Leadership

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership

Step up and take your place among the next generation of leaders with this Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership. Ultimately relevant in the workplace, this online Ed.D. features three yearly starts and a streamlined dissertation process.

Next Start Date:

Jan 12, 2026

Learn More

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership

2 Yrs

100% Online

Step up and take your place among the next generation of leaders with this Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership. Ultimately relevant in the workplace, this online Ed.D. features three yearly starts and a streamlined dissertation process.

Degree Earned: Doctorate

Step up and take your place among the next generation of leaders with this Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership. Ultimately relevant in the workplace, this online Ed.D. features three yearly starts and a streamlined dissertation process.

Degree Earned: Doctorate

Learning Mode: Online

Online

57 Credits

$1110/Credit

Help me estimate my cost

Next Start Date

Spring I (Jan 12, 2026)

Next Start: 01/12/2026

Learn More

Next Start: 01/12/2026

I started the program because I knew I wanted to lead with a job that had more responsibility and would have more impact. I've reached my goal. Five years later, I am a Doctor of Education, a better leader and person and my school districts and students have benefited from my improved leadership.

Michelle H.

Organizational Leadership, Ed.D.

Both the faculty and staff members have been very supportive in every way, manifesting their core values in action. Students are accorded the same respect and dignity regardless of their cultural background, color, gender or religion.

Jacinta A

Nursing, DNP

Not all doctoral programs are alike. I loved the cohort model becuase I not only earned my doctorate I also gained lifelong friends and a network of professionals I can rely on. The Ed.D. program taught me to be confident and thoughtful in my leadership decisions.

Linda C.

Organizational Leadership, Ed.D.

Doctoral Degrees

A Major Achievement

Graduate Admission

Graduate Financial Aid

Programs Offered

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership

Testimonials

Ways to Get Started

Future Students

Current Students

Faculty & Staff

About UMass Global