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Online Ed.D. Degree in Middle Grades Education

Lead with impact through students’ pivotal years

100% online

As few as 3 years

54 credit hours

$1,090 cost per credit

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Guide, support and improve the academic performance of young adolescents

Prepare to be a leader in middle school education, supporting student growth and outcomes as they transition from childhood to adolescence. The 100% online Doctor of Education in Middle Grades Education from Brenau University is a career-enhancing program that equips experienced educators to be forward-thinking leaders who can navigate, shape and impact the future of education.

Building on foundational courses, our online Ed.D. degree program focuses on advancing research capabilities and dissertation development. Specialization coursework examines subject-specific innovations and evolving strategies to meet the unique needs of middle school students. Take advantage of an independent study, practicums and virtual residencies. You will graduate ready to pursue high-level opportunities across diverse learning environments.

Concentration details

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Deepen expertise to be an influential leader

The online Doctor in Education degree program at Brenau is comprised of 54 credit hours and can be completed in as few as three years. Boasting a flexible format, the program is great for working professionals who don’t have to put their life on hold while advancing their careers.

You are required to complete six concentration courses (totaling 12 credit hours) where you will build expertise in middle grades education with a focus on innovation and trends in language arts, math and science. An independent study delves deep into a relevant issue, while practicum activities are devoted to the real-world application of your learning and research.

Middle grades education required courses

This course focuses on the many strands of language arts, creative and effective approaches to the Language Arts and will also include a linguistic analysis of language with implications for curriculum and instruction or the young adolescent. It is designed to use research and integrate language arts within content area curriculum.

Provides experienced teachers the opportunity to develop and implement innovative and effective practice in the teaching of mathematics to middle grades learners. Alternative techniques for the assessment of mathematical abilities will also be addressed.

This course will address the teaching of science as it relates to science, technology, and society issues. It provides the opportunity to investigate case studies in middle grades science teaching as well as research innovative strategies and write a grant proposal.

Brenau’s Ed.D. program offers core coursework that covers essential education topics, including curriculum design, academic program assessment and education policy. You’ll strengthen your capacity for leadership and explore the emerging trends driving the future of education.

View Program Curriculum

Be ready for higher-level opportunities

Brenau’s online Ed.D. degree in middle grades education program is a valuable step for those who want to advance their career across academia and beyond. After completing your program, you may qualify to take on leadership roles in:

  • Public or private schools
  • Private or nonprofit youth enrichment programs
  • Local, state or federal government agencies serving adolescents and their families
  • Public or private research firms

Be part of the educator workforce where about 40,500 openings for middle school teachers are projected each year through 2034.1 In Georgia, a new teacher recruitment initiative was launched in 2025 that aims to attract, recognize and retain top teaching talent.2

Potential careers for graduates of the doctorate in education programs in Georgia:

Middle School Teacher $74,720 per year3*

Postsecondary Education Administrator $131,590 per year4*

Explore more Doctor of Education concentrations

We offer additional Doctor of Education programs focused on elementary and special education. Review those as well as our Doctor of Education in Higher Education programs with concentrations in leadership and teaching and learning.

Ed.D.: Special Education

Learn advanced assessment techniques and examine transformative technologies that foster success for students with diverse learning styles.

Ed.D.: Higher Education – Teaching and Learning

Delve into adult learning theory, assessments and instructional design as you prepare to advance in higher education or the private sector.

Ed.D.: Higher Education – Leadership

Build expertise in organizational, instructional and financial practices to tackle the challenges impacting colleges and universities.

Ed.D.: Elementary Education

Explore the latest innovations and trends in elementary education to raise the bar for young learners and inspire the teachers who guide them.

Ed.D.: All But the Dissertation

With guidance from a faculty mentor, you’ll conduct meaningful research and complete your dissertation to earn your Ed.D. degree.

Sources and disclaimer

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Middle School Teachers.” Retrieved April. 2026, from
    https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/middle-school-teachers.htm.
  2. Department of Georgia Education. “GaDOE launches new teacher recruitment campaign.”
    https://gadoe.org/press-releases/gadoe-launches-new-teacher-recruitment-campaign/.
  3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Employment and Wages. “Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education.” Retrieved April. 2026, from https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes252022.htm.
  4. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Employment and Wages. “Education Administrators, Postsecondary.” Retrieved April. 2026, from https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes119033.htm.

*Depending on district and years of experience.