Earning a doctorate is a decisive step for professionals ready to lead in schools, universities, nonprofit organizations, or public service. This credential can open doors to executive leadership, policymaking, curriculum development, and more. Most Ed.D. programs have traditionally included a lengthy dissertation, but that model is evolving.
Some universities, including Southern Nazarene University (SNU), are moving away from the traditional dissertation model in favor of a non-dissertation option for their doctoral programs. Instead of completing a traditional dissertation, students complete two publishable articles based on research specific to their interests and real-world leadership challenges.
If you’re a working professional considering a terminal degree, here’s why a non-dissertation Ed.D. might be a better fit—and how SNU’s program is leading the way in offering a meaningful, modern approach to doctoral education.
The Traditional Dissertation: Valuable but Intensive
In most traditional doctoral programs, students are required to complete a dissertation, a long research study that investigates a theoretical question and contributes original knowledge to the field. The dissertation typically involves designing a research proposal, securing approval from an Institutional Review Board (IRB), collecting and analyzing data, and writing a document that can exceed 200 pages.
What Is a Non-Dissertation Ed.D.?
A non-dissertation Ed.D. still requires rigorous academic work, but it replaces the traditional dissertation. Rather than developing a theoretical study, students may design a project to improve a specific program, process, or policy in their school, district, or organization. Research remains relevant, and many students use this research to produce peer-reviewed, publishable articles. These projects and publishable works are grounded in research and evidence but emphasize application and practical use, not abstraction.
At SNU, the Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership program is carefully designed to help students develop leadership skills, explore contemporary issues in education, and complete two publishable articles that make a meaningful impact in their professional environment. Students don’t walk this journey alone—faculty, a designated research professor, and cohort peers walk with them throughout the process.
Why Consider a Non-Dissertation Ed.D.?
One of the most significant advantages of a non-dissertation format is relevance. You will work on a real issue that affects your career field. You’re already deeply invested in this, and publishable research projects give students the opportunity to better their chosen field's landscape for all.
You’ll leave the program not just with a credential but also with publishable research that can be utilized and the skills necessary to excel in the field. This learning leads to immediate impact.
Most students pursuing an Ed.D. are full-time educators, administrators, or professionals with family and community responsibilities. A non-dissertation pathway accommodates that reality.
SNU’s program is offered in person one night a week or 100% online, with structured support to help you stay on track. The program design removes unnecessary barriers so you can focus on learning, leadership, and applying what you’ve learned to your career and community.
For many adult learners, the dissertation process can seem intimidating. In fact, this daunting task is one of the leading reasons they never pursue a doctorate.
A non-dissertation program like the one at SNU maintains high academic rigor and critical thinking standards but presents them in a format that feels achievable and meaningful. It’s about doing research with a greater purpose and demonstrating leadership in action.
Is a Non-Dissertation Ed.D. Right for You?
Choosing the right Ed.D. program depends on your goals. A non-dissertation program is a great fit if you:
In short, if you’re looking for a terminal degree that honors your time, your goals, and your real-world responsibilities, a non-dissertation Ed.D. could be the perfect fit.
Why SNU’s Doctor of Education Program Stands Out
At Southern Nazarene University, we understand that education professionals are called to lead in complex, fast-changing environments. Our Ed.D. in Administration and Leadership is designed to equip you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to make a difference, while valuing the time and hard work you put into a capstone project.
Here’s what sets our program apart:
Most importantly, our program is built around you—your calling, your context, and your commitment to leading with integrity and impact.
Conclusion: Your Leadership Journey Starts Here
Choosing a non-dissertation Ed.D. doesn’t mean taking a shortcut. It means choosing a path that values practical experience, leadership potential, and applied impact over academic tradition.
If you’re ready to advance your career, grow your influence, and complete a doctoral degree that works for your life—not against it—consider Southern Nazarene University’s Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership.