The Doctor of Education (EdD) in Teaching and Learning: Adult Learning degree at Grand Canyon University is designed for those who wish to teach and lead all students, in particular, collegiate and adult learners. This doctorate instructs you on how to prepare for and practice research-based strategies that can improve education.
Graduates with an EdD in teaching and learning can strive to become leaders at the college and university level, working to bring positive experiences to postsecondary and adult learners. With exposure to coursework in teaching adult learning, you will have opportunities to examine industry trends, as well as to implement new strategies based on the research you’ve personally conducted.
The quality of one’s education is important, so before choosing a doctorate in adult education program, you should carefully consider the quality and reputation of the university. GCU is proud to have institutional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. We strive to graduate practice-ready professionals who are prepared to make a positive impact on their communities.
You’ll have the support and guidance of your dissertation advisor as you select a research topic and develop your research methodologies. Research topics can come from anywhere in the adult learning degree coursework.
For example, you might develop your dissertation research topic as you:
To learn more about time to completion and the dissertation process at GCU, visit our doctoral page.
Leadership and research in adult education are the main focus of this doctoral degree. This research is conducted with the purpose of uncovering new strategies and theories about adult learning. You will then have the opportunity to apply these new ideas with adult learners to create positive educational outcomes, such as mentorship, coaching and collaboration.
The College of Doctoral Studies at GCU offers a welcoming and supportive learning community while also challenging you to achieve new academic heights.
The college has identified learning goals within education that each learner is expected to achieve:
The doctorate in teaching and learning program allows you to engage in your own research, which may make a positive contribution to the overall body of knowledge in your field. You will conduct qualitative research in adult learning with the intent to generate new research and improve methods of learning.
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Qualitative vs. Quantitative Program Options
Earning a doctoral degree in any field requires a considerable investment of time and resources. Before you make the decision to enroll in this terminal degree, you should take the time to research your options. Use the following FAQs and answers to get started.
Does the doctorate in teaching and learning require a dissertation?
What education setting can you work in with an adult learning degree?
Can I work while attending the EdD in Adult Teaching and Learning degree?
When you graduate with a doctoral degree in teaching and learning, you may be ready to pursue a position as an educator who has the ability to make an impact on the lives of learners.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates job growth for postsecondary teachers to increase by about 8% from 2023 to 2033, faster than average, indicating the addition of about 111,400 new jobs at higher education institutions during this time period.(See disclaimer 3)
With a firm foundation in adult education competencies, you may look for career opportunities at:(See disclaimer 4,5)
Junior colleges
Public or private colleges or universities
Professional schools
Technical programs
Corporate training programs
Estimated number of new jobs at higher education institutions from 2023 to 2033(See disclaimer 3)
(See disclaimer §) MOU-Alumni 2000 Doctoral-Dec2025: The Alumni Scholarship for Doctoral Programs is only valid for those applicants who submit a complete application and begin a Doctoral program in December 2025. This scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with any other GCU scholarship or awards and only applies to online and evening programs. Please speak to a university counselor for complete details.
Empower adult learners to navigate their return to education and achieve their goals.
