The Right to Use the Title ‘Dr.’ with an EdD Degree

Is an EdD entitled to the title of 'Doctor'?

What is an EdD?

An EdD (Doctor of Education) is a doctoral degree focused on the field of education. It typically emphasizes practical applications and research related to educational leadership, pedagogy, policy, and administration. While some argue that it is on par with a traditional Ph.D., in the United States, it is not uncommon for the distinction to persist in professional and social contexts.

Using the Title ‘Dr.’

Professional Context

In a professional context, an EdD holder is entitled to use the title 'Dr.' As stated by many, a doctor is a doctor, regardless of the specific field of study. This means that any holder of a doctoral degree, regardless of whether it is a research doctorate like a Ph.D. or a practitioner-oriented degree like an EdD, can use the title 'Doctor.'

Social Context in the United States

In social contexts, however, the use of 'Dr.' can vary. In the United States, it is not customary for individuals who are not medical doctors to use the title 'Doctor.' An EdD or Ph.D. typically uses the title 'Doctor' professionally but is likely to use 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' in social settings.

Consensus on the Title

The advice given to EdD students is often to consider the context carefully. A doctorate, whether research-based or practitioner-oriented, grants the right to use the title 'Dr.' But, the use in social settings must be balanced with respect and understanding of cultural norms.

Unique Considerations for the EdD

While an EdD is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a research doctorate, it differs from a Ph.D. in that it is often more focused on practice rather than purely research. This is why some debate exists around whether holders of practitioner-focused EdDs should use the title 'Dr.' in social contexts. However, the degree itself is equivalent to a Ph.D. in terms of academic standing and the right to use the title 'Doctor.'

Examples of Doctoral Degrees

Other doctoral degrees that qualify for the title 'Dr.' include the DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery), LLD (Doctor of Laws), and DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine). Interestingly, the EdD joins this list, despite being less focused on research compared to the Ph.D.

Systematic Research Doctorates

The Ph.D. stands out as it is widely considered the terminal degree in many academic disciplines. Many medical doctors and dental specialists with advanced degrees often pursue the Ph.D. to enhance their research capabilities, which further solidifies the respect for the title 'Dr.' in academic and professional environments.

Conclusion

In summary, an EdD holder is indeed entitled to use the title 'Dr.' in professional contexts. The title reflects the academic achievement and the rigors of doctoral studies. However, in social settings, the use of the title must be mindful of local customs and norms. The EdD contributes significantly to the field of education, and its holders are fully entitled to the academic title of 'Dr.'