Does anyone have an Ed.D.?

[Anonymous]

I am thinking about doing the program in Educational Administration and Policy Studies at GWU's Alexandria campus, in particular, but I'd be interested in hearing from anyone that has an Ed.D. from any school.

I am not doing it to change my career at all or further develop it (I don't want to become a superintendent or a principal). I am already an administrator at an area independent school and I do educational consulting on the side... so I'm not sure that this would really impact my career in any meaningful way. I guess this sounds stupid when verbalized but I just want to do it so I'll have a doctorate! I'm just wondering - do people really recognize the value of an Ed.D. in the same way that they would with a Ph.D? I don't want to spend the money to do this and then realize that it was pointless anyway if people don't consider it a legitimate degree.

[Anonymous]

If you are a grown-up, with grown up responsibilities, a doctorate is only worth it if it improves your career prospects.

Otherwise, it just isn't worth it.

If your goal is to be called "Dr...." not worth the time, or money.

[Anonymous]

Well, I guess in all fairness it will probably improve my career prospects with the consulting, because I'll probably sound more legitimate to clients with a doctorate (or will I?)

But the main reason would be just for personal satisfaction.

[Anonymous]

Also, if you ever want to teach at a University you will need that doctorate.

Another reason I would do it is if there is something specific that you want to do research and publish on. . .

[Anonymous]

I got my PhD and the novelty of being called Dr. xyz wore off after a few weeks.....to further bump me off my pedestal, my husband started calling me Dr. xyz every time he busted me doing something stupid

There is a hierarchy of doctoral degrees. The EdD doesn't have the same status quotient as the PhD.....just like the PhD doesn't have the same status quotient as the MD.

If you have a solid reputation in your field.....I don't think the EdD will really do much for you. If you really want it just for personal satisfaction, go for it, if the time/money involved isn't a big detractor.