This study explored the perceptions, structure and their impact on the final thesis of the EdD and the PhD (Education) and allowed a comparison of the UK and US. This report focuses on the qualitative component of a mixed methods study. EdD Program leaders in the UK and US were interviewed, and the transcripts were analysed allowing categories to be developed. The Donabedian model of structure, process and outcomes organised the findings. The main findings were: the EdD and PhD were perceived as equivalent qualifications; the main difference was the lack of a taught component in the PhD (Education) in the UK. No clear pattern was identified in the structure of the final dissertation and an examination of the final thesis across UK and US programmes was one of the final recommendations
Keywords: Doctoral Education, Professional Doctorate, thesis
