How many years will I need to get my doctorate in education
I'm heading into education and thinking about getting my doctorate
#educator
2 answers
Vernon’s Answer
After your four-year degree, you will be able to get a Masters degree in one or two years, depending on your course load. A Ph.D. after that is usually another 1-2 years, depending on the amount of research you need to do for your dissertation. Somewhere in there you realistically have to do your student teaching and get certified as a classroom teacher in your home state or in the state you intend to teach in. I strongly advise that you spend as much time actually teaching classes and getting to know teachers as you can.
I'm guessing that this Ph.D. you want is leading toward administration of schools or a school district. Be advised, the average longevity of a district superintendent is less than five years. If you are not inherently a political animal, you will be VERY disappointed in administration at the top levels.
On the other hand, if you are intending to teach in classrooms, be sure you have a strong major other than education. I've taught with Ph.D. classroom teachers and the kids LOVE them. Why? Because they know so much stuff. Never let anyone tell you that all kids want to do is hands-on work. They are just as appreciative of "Gee-Whiz!" stuff as we were.
Go be a great educator and save our country from those who are attacking public education. Vouchers and going all private in this country is an elitist lie and will be a disaster for our children and our nation.