Ed.D. programs have grown in popularity over the past few decades. Utilizing a qualitative single case study approach, we explored students' motivations for pursuing an Ed.D. in higher education and their considerations related to program choice at a public research university in the midwestern United States. Data from our 14 interviews highlighted the external and internal influences that shaped participants' motivations to pursue an Ed.D. We discuss implications for Ed.D. program administrators and faculty.