2026 Online EdD Programs with an All But Dissertation (ABD) Option

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from online EdD with an all but dissertation (ABD) programs?

Online EdD ABD programs focus on helping students complete the final stage of their doctorate—the dissertation or capstone project. Since coursework is usually finished, the core curriculum centers on research design, data analysis, and advanced leadership strategies to prepare you for your final project. Some programs may also require internship or practicum hours to ensure practical, real-world experience.

Tuition generally ranges from $18,000 to $40,000, depending on the university and how much work remains. Classes are delivered online through virtual lectures, discussion boards, and one-on-one faculty mentoring, making it easy to stay connected and supported. These programs are designed to be flexible so you can focus on completing your degree while continuing to work.

Where can I work as a graduate of online EdD with an all but dissertation (ABD) program?

Graduates of online EdD ABD programs gain advanced leadership, research, and communication skills that open doors across many industries. Many work in K–12 and higher education as school superintendents, principals, or academic deans. Others move into corporate training, consulting, or policy roles within government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, education administrators in postsecondary settings earn a median annual salary of about $103,500, while top executives in related fields often earn more. Some graduates even launch their own businesses or lead community initiatives. The combination of leadership expertise and research skills makes this degree versatile, helping professionals thrive in education, healthcare, technology, and beyond.

How much can I make as a graduate of online EdD with an all but dissertation (ABD) program?

Graduates of online EdD ABD programs often see significant salary growth thanks to their advanced credentials. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, education administrators in postsecondary institutions earn a median annual salary of about $103,500, while school superintendents and district leaders can make $120,000 or more depending on location and experience.

Entry-level professionals in leadership roles may start around $75,000 to $85,000, but earnings typically rise with years of experience and additional certifications. Those who move into executive positions in corporate training, policy development, or consulting can surpass $130,000 annually. An EdD not only boosts earning potential but also provides long-term career stability and opportunities for advancement.

List of the Best Online EdD Programs with an All But Dissertation (ABD) Programs for 2026

Gwynedd Mercy University’s All But Dissertation (ABD) Doctorate in Education

Gwynedd Mercy University’s 18-month ABD EdD program helps students complete their doctorate faster by building on previously finished coursework. With four specialization tracks and dedicated faculty advisors, students benefit from personalized dissertation support and in-person residencies that foster collaboration and guidance throughout the research process.

• Required credits to graduate: Varies by specialization
• Cost: Contact school for current tuition
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Edgewood College’s Online Doctoral Completion Program (Hybrid Program) 

Edgewood College’s hybrid Online Doctoral Completion Program blends online learning with in-person sessions to guide students through advanced research, IRB proposals, and dissertation writing. Over 14–18 months, participants benefit from close faculty advising and peer support to stay on track and successfully finish their dissertation.

• Required credits to graduate: Varies by program
• Cost: Contact school for tuition details
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Manhattanville College’s Doctorate in Education’s Dissertation Completion (ABD) Pathway 

Manhattanville College’s Dissertation Completion Pathway offers an online, faculty-mentored experience similar to its on-campus program. Students attend synchronous classes and targeted dissertation seminars that guide them chapter by chapter, supported by an annual July residency to strengthen faculty connections and collaborative learning.

• Required credits to graduate: Varies by pathway
• Cost: Contact school for current tuition
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Bay Path University’s Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Studies’ ABD Track 

Bay Path University’s ABD track in the Online EdD in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Studies emphasizes practical, action-oriented research. Courses focus on visionary leadership, organizational change, and entrepreneurial strategies, preparing students to tackle real-world challenges through applied research rather than traditional dissertations.

• Required credits to graduate: Varies by track
• Cost: Contact school for tuition details
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

National University’s (NU) Online Doctorate of Education’s Dissertation Completion Pathway

National University’s Dissertation Completion Pathway acknowledges prior doctoral work and offers a smooth transition into ABD status. Students complete three bridge courses before advancing to the dissertation stage, guided by weekly mentor meetings and specialized tracks in Educational Leadership and Instructional Design.

• Required credits to graduate: Varies by specialization
• Cost: Contact school for current tuition
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

University of Phoenix – Doctoral Dissertation Completion Pathway

The University of Phoenix’s Dissertation Completion Pathway supports students who have finished doctoral coursework elsewhere and need guidance to complete their dissertation. The program includes personalized faculty mentorship, flexible online scheduling, and structured milestones designed to help students progress efficiently toward graduation.

• Required credits to graduate: Varies based on previously completed doctoral coursework
• Cost: $810 per credit for those under BHMT discount program
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Concordia University Chicago – Doctoral Completion Program

Concordia University Chicago offers a flexible Doctoral Completion Program that helps ABD students return to their studies and finish their EdD. The curriculum emphasizes research, writing workshops, and individualized faculty support, allowing candidates to align their dissertation topics with their professional goals and interests.

• Required credits to graduate: Approx. 61 credits for EdD Educational Leadership with Illinois Superintendent Endorsement
• Cost: $726 per credit hour (discounted to $676 in some partnerships) + $15 technology fee per credit

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Liberty University – Online Doctoral Completion Program (ABD Track)

Liberty University’s ABD track enables students to transfer completed doctoral coursework and focus on finishing their dissertation online. With faith-integrated coursework, flexible schedules, and one-on-one faculty guidance, the program helps students complete their degrees efficiently while balancing professional and personal commitments.

• Required credits to graduate: Varies by specialization and transfer credits
• Cost: $610 per credit hour full-time; $675 per credit part-time; military rate $375/credit
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

What does ABD mean in an online EdD program?

ABD stands for “All But Dissertation,” which means a student has finished all required coursework in a doctoral program but has not yet completed the dissertation. In an online EdD program, an ABD option allows students who are stuck at this stage to re-enter a structured pathway and finish their degree.

Just like the fastest online bachelor's degree in sports management programs provide an accelerated route to graduation, ABD completion programs give doctoral students a direct pathway to finish what they started.

These programs are designed for doctoral candidates who may have stepped away due to time, work, or personal reasons. Instead of starting over, they can transfer completed credits and focus directly on completing their dissertation or capstone project.

An ABD online EdD program is especially helpful because it gives flexibility while still offering guidance from faculty and access to academic resources. Students receive targeted support to finish their research and writing, which is often the biggest barrier to graduation. By completing the dissertation requirement, they can move from ABD status to holding a full doctoral degree in education.

Why consider an online EdD ABD program in 2026?

For doctoral candidates who have paused their studies at the dissertation stage, an ABD completion program can provide a direct path forward. In 2026, the demand for educational leaders continues to grow, and finishing a doctorate rather than remaining “all but dissertation” can be the difference between advancing in a career or staying stuck. Online ABD programs are structured to meet this need by combining flexibility, support, and recognition of prior work.

Much like a fast-track hospitality management degree online creates an accelerated pathway in its field, ABD programs give doctoral candidates the structure and speed needed to finally complete their doctorate. The following sections explain why choosing this option now can be such a smart move.

Faster path to finishing a doctorate

ABD programs are designed for efficiency. Instead of repeating coursework, students build on completed credits and focus on the dissertation or final project, allowing for a quicker graduation timeline.  Choosing schools with high transfer acceptance rates can make it easier to transfer credits and accelerate your path to completion.

Career opportunities and advancement

Completing the EdD strengthens career prospects. Graduates are positioned for leadership roles in education, higher administration, and policy that typically require a finished doctorate. The importance of completing doctoral work is clear when looking at other fields. 

For example, based on a recent report, 62.2% of physical and earth sciences Ph.D. graduates and 57.9% of life sciences graduates pursued postdoctoral research, compared to just 38.5% in engineering. These numbers show how completing advanced training directly influences career pathways, with higher participation in postdoctoral roles where doctorates are fully completed.

Flexibility of online learning

An online format makes it easier to balance academic progress with professional and family responsibilities. Remote access to advisors, resources, and coursework reduces barriers to completion.

Financial advantages

Because ABD programs often accept prior credits, the overall cost is significantly lower than starting a doctorate again. This makes finishing more affordable and financially practical.

Reaching personal and professional goals

Earning the EdD provides a sense of closure for unfinished studies. Beyond career benefits, it fulfills a personal goal of completing a rigorous academic journey.

What admission requirements do ABD online EdD programs have?

Admission into an ABD online EdD program is tailored for doctoral candidates who have already completed substantial coursework but still need to finish their dissertation. While requirements vary by institution, most programs look for proof of prior doctoral work, academic readiness, and commitment to completing the degree.

Much like a fast track medical billing and coding certificate online streamlines entry into healthcare careers, ABD completion programs are structured to provide a direct, efficient path toward finishing a doctorate. Below are the most common criteria students should expect.

• Previous doctoral coursework – Applicants must show they have completed all required EdD or PhD coursework, often verified by transcripts.
• ABD or equivalent status – Students must demonstrate they are officially “All But Dissertation” or have reached an advanced candidacy stage.
• Transfer credits – Most programs allow transfer of previously earned credits, typically up to 27–30, though exact limits vary.
• Minimum GPA – Universities often require a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher from prior graduate or doctoral work.
• Professional experience – Some ABD programs, especially in leadership tracks, expect applicants to have relevant experience in education or administration.
• Application materials – Standard requirements include a completed application, statement of purpose, updated résumé or CV, and academic references.
• Standardized test scores – While many programs are test-optional, some may still request GRE scores depending on the institution.

Overall, ABD completion programs are designed to streamline the admissions process while ensuring students are academically prepared to re-engage with doctoral-level research and writing. Meeting these requirements allows candidates to pick up where they left off and focus on completing the final stage of their degree.

The demand for leaders who can step into advanced education roles is also reflected in teacher workforce trends. Between 2019 and 2022, the percentage of teachers leaving their districts through retirement or resignation increased from 5% to 7%, underscoring the growing need for qualified administrators and leaders who understand areas of business law to address staffing gaps and support school systems.

How long does it take to finish an ABD EdD online?

Finishing an ABD EdD online typically takes between 12 and 24 months, depending on the program structure and the student’s pace. Because coursework is already complete, the main focus is on the dissertation or final project. This makes the timeline shorter than starting a doctorate from the beginning and somewhat similar to how a fast track online history bachelor's degree condenses undergraduate study into an accelerated format.

Some programs offer accelerated tracks that allow motivated students to graduate in as little as one year. Others provide more flexible pacing, giving students up to three years or more if they need additional time for research, writing, or balancing professional responsibilities.

The exact duration often depends on how much progress a student has already made on their dissertation before enrolling. With consistent effort and strong faculty support, many ABD students are able to finish faster than they expected.

What are the costs and funding options for ABD EdD programs?

Completing an EdD through an ABD pathway is often less expensive than starting a doctorate from scratch, but costs can still vary widely. Understanding tuition, additional expenses, and available funding sources helps students plan ahead.

Tuition and fees

Most ABD programs charge per credit, and since prior coursework transfers, students only pay for the remaining credits. Tuition can range from the low $20,000s to over $40,000 depending on the institution. On top of tuition, universities may also charge technology, library, or dissertation support fees.

Additional expenses

Some ABD programs require short residencies, which add travel and lodging costs. Students should also account for books, research software, transcription services, and potential expenses tied to data collection or Institutional Review Board (IRB) approvals.

Financial aid options

Federal financial aid and private student loans remain available for most ABD EdD programs. Many universities also provide internal scholarships, and professional associations sometimes offer dissertation-specific grants. These funding sources can ease the burden of tuition and research costs.

Employer support

Many school districts, colleges, and nonprofit organizations offer tuition reimbursement for employees completing an advanced degree. Since ABD programs are shorter and more focused, they may be particularly appealing to employers investing in workforce development.

Payment flexibility

Some institutions allow monthly payment plans or tuition caps, letting students spread costs over time. This flexibility can make it easier to budget while finishing the degree.

Overall, ABD completion programs reduce costs by accepting transfer credits, but students should weigh tuition against available funding and support options. A mix of scholarships, employer aid, and careful program selection can make earning an EdD more affordable and manageable.

This is especially important when considering that the average debt among PhD holders is $89,526, showing the significant financial weight of doctoral education and the value of a streamlined ABD pathway.

What careers can you pursue with a completed EdD?

Earning an EdD opens doors to leadership roles across education, nonprofit, and organizational settings. Unlike a PhD, which often focuses on research and theory, the EdD emphasizes applying knowledge to real-world problems and leadership challenges.

Common career paths for EdD graduates include:

• School and district leadership – roles such as principal, superintendent, or director of curriculum.
• Higher education administration – positions like dean, provost, or student affairs leader.
• College and university faculty – teaching in education departments or leading practitioner-focused research.
• Policy and advocacy roles – shaping education policy through government agencies or think tanks.
• Corporate training and development – designing leadership programs or managing learning and development teams.
• Nonprofit and community leadership – directing organizations that support education, equity, or social impact initiatives.
• Consulting – guiding schools, colleges, or organizations in areas like assessment, strategy, or change management.

A completed EdD provides versatile career options in education and beyond. Graduates can lead schools, influence policy, teach at the college level, or apply their expertise to organizational leadership and development. Many also pursue roles in public health and research, similar to jobs in epidemiology, leveraging data and evidence to inform decisions.

The strong earning potential reflects the value of these roles—postsecondary education administrators, for example, earned a median annual salary of $103,960 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This shows how completing the degree can translate not only into leadership opportunities but also into competitive compensation.

How do online ABD programs compare to PhD completion programs?

When choosing between an ABD EdD program and a PhD completion program, the differences come down to focus, structure, and long-term goals. Both options allow students who did not finish their doctoral studies to return and complete their degree, but each caters to a different type of learner.

Focus and Purpose

ABD EdD programs are designed for practitioners who want to apply research to solve problems in education and leadership. The emphasis is on practical solutions, organizational improvement, and preparing graduates for leadership roles. In contrast, PhD completion programs center on original research and the advancement of theory. Students in these programs work toward producing scholarship that adds new knowledge to their field.

Curriculum and Structure

Just as a fast track master's in legal studies online accelerates degree completion in law-related fields, ABD pathways streamline the doctorate process for education professionals. In terms of coursework, ABD EdD programs usually combine dissertation seminars, faculty mentorship, and applied research experiences. The structure is supportive and geared toward moving students through the dissertation process in a clear sequence.

PhD completion programs, on the other hand, are more research-intensive. They often require advanced methodology courses and expect students to complete a highly specialized dissertation.

Time to Completion

Most ABD EdD programs can be finished in about one to two years, depending on how much work the student has already completed. PhD completion programs generally take longer—two to four years is common—because of the depth and rigor of the research required.

Career Pathways

Graduates of ABD EdD programs typically move into leadership roles in K–12 schools, higher education administration, nonprofits, or organizational development. Those who complete PhD programs are more likely to pursue careers in academia, research, and policy analysis.

Flexibility and Format

Another key difference lies in format. ABD EdD programs are often offered online or in hybrid models to meet the needs of working professionals. PhD completion programs may be less flexible, with a heavier workload and a greater focus on research output.

Ultimately, an ABD EdD program is ideal for professionals who want to quickly complete their doctorate and use it in leadership practice. A PhD completion program is better suited for students who want to dedicate themselves to scholarship and an academic career, such as those pursuing masters degrees in healthcare to advance their expertise and leadership opportunities.

What challenges could delay dissertation completion in an online ABD EdD program?

Candidates often confront obstacles such as maintaining self-discipline amid competing responsibilities, navigating complex research methodologies, and managing asynchronous feedback from remote advisors. Clear milestone mapping and a proactive approach to accessing expert guidance can mitigate these issues. Programs that integrate structured progress assessments and offer timely dissertation support can help ensure steady advancement. For those seeking to minimize delays, review accelerated doctoral programs in education online that emphasize rigorous progress tracking and dedicated mentoring.

What student support services do online ABD programs provide?

Online ABD programs are designed to help students finally cross the finish line of their doctorate. Because the dissertation stage can be overwhelming, these programs often provide extensive support to make the process smoother and more manageable.

Common support services include:

• Dedicated faculty advisors – personalized guidance throughout the dissertation process.
• Writing and research workshops – resources to strengthen academic writing and research methods.
• Library and database access – online tools for literature reviews, citation help, and academic sources.
• Technical support – assistance with online platforms, software, and digital submission tools.
• Peer networking opportunities – virtual cohorts, discussion forums, and residencies to build community.
• Career and professional development – workshops or coaching for leadership, teaching, or organizational roles.

Student support is a central feature of ABD online programs, ensuring that candidates don’t feel isolated as they complete their dissertation. These services not only improve academic progress but also build confidence and connections that carry into future careers. 

This focus on connection mirrors a broader trend in U.S. higher education—the United States recently hosted an all-time high of more than 1.1 million international students, a reminder that learners thrive when they have access to strong academic and community support systems.

How to Choose the Best Online ABD EdD Program in 2026

Choosing the right ABD online EdD program means matching your goals, lifestyle, and resources with what a school offers. Not all ABD programs are built alike — the right one will help you finish your dissertation efficiently and prepare you for real leadership impact in your field. To make a smart decision, it helps to look closely at six core areas: accreditation, specialization, program format, student support, costs, and long-term outcomes.

Accreditation and Reputation

Look for programs that are accredited by recognized regional or national accrediting agencies. Accreditation ensures quality standards and signals that employers and other schools will respect your degree.

Alignment With Specialization and Purpose

Select a program that offers concentrations aligned with your career goals — whether in K-12 leadership, higher education, special education, or educational policy. The curriculum should include applied coursework, research methodology, and dissertation support that fit your focus.

Program Format, Flexibility, and Timeline

Check whether the program is fully online, hybrid, or requires short residencies. Consider if classes are synchronous (live) or asynchronous (on your schedule). Programs differ in how quickly ABD students can finish, so review average completion times and transfer credit policies.

Student Support Services

Strong programs provide faculty mentorship, dissertation coaching, writing workshops, library access, peer groups, and technical support. Early assignment of a faculty advisor is especially valuable for staying on track.

Cost and Funding Options

Compare tuition, fees, and any residency or technology costs. Also research scholarships, grants, tuition reimbursement from employers, and payment plans. A program with higher upfront costs but stronger support may be more cost-effective in the long run.

Outcomes and Return on Investment

Examine completion rates, job placement outcomes, and alumni satisfaction. Programs with strong graduate networks and high completion rates often provide better long-term returns.

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