online phd from usa

30 Best Online PhD Programs [2024 Ultimate Guide]

Explore Online PhD Programs from accredited colleges offering online PhD, DBA, EdD, PsyD, DNP – 100% online. Accelerated classes are available.

With millions of Americans now pursuing and completing graduate degrees, employers have their pick of the most qualified and trained employees in their field.

The U.S. Census Bureau reported that in the last decade, about one million Americans earned a PhD. Many fields, like education and the humanities, value doctoral degrees. A person who holds a PhD is almost guaranteed to have higher level critical thinking and problem solving skills.

If you currently have a bachelor’s degree or even a master’s degree and are considering pursuing a doctoral degree, consider accelerated PhD programs online if they are available in your field.

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List of 30 Online PhD Programs (and related doctoral programs)

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Andrews University

Located in Berrin Springs, Michigan, Andrews University was established in 1874. It is affiliated with the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

The university offers PhD programs in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Higher Education Administration, and various concentrations in Leadership. These programs have various credit requirements ranging between 61 and 94. The programs can be completed in 5-6 years on a full-time basis.

• PhD Curriculum and Instruction
• PhD Educational Leadership
• PhD Higher Education Administration
• PhD Leadership

Andrews is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

2. Catholic University of America

Established in 1887, the Catholic University of America is located in Washington, DC.

The PhD in Nursing program is offered by the university’s Conway School of Nursing and requires 79 credit hours. Students can transfer in 24 credit hours from graduate course-work if they have been successful in comprehensive exams.

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing

CUA is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education

3. Central Michigan University

Located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Central Michigan University was established in 1892. It has more than 60 other locations worldwide.

The online PhD program in Educational Technology requires 54 credits and consists of 12 courses followed by a dissertation. The program is in an online cohort format with no face-to-face requirements.

• Doctor of Educational Technology

CMU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

4. Clemson University

Consisting of 7 colleges, Clemson University was established in 1889 and located in Clemson, South Carolina.

The online PhD programs are offered in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (60 credit hours), Rhetoric, Communication & Information Design (on-campus to defend dissertation), and in Healthcare Genetics (70 credit hours).

Out-of-state applicants must check whether the program is available in their states.

• Ph.D. in Healthcare Genetics (HCG)
• Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (PRTM)
• Ph.D. in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design

Clemson is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

5. Colorado State University

Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, Colorado State University was established in 1870.

The online PhD programs offered by the university are the 60-credit PhD in Higher Education Leadership (can be completed in 5 years) and the 72-credit PhD in Systems Engineering (varies based on previous coursework and intensity of study).

• Higher Education Leadership Ph.D.
• Systems Engineering Ph.D.

Colorado State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

6. Concordia University Chicago

Founded in the Lutheran tradition, Concordia University Chicago was established in 1863 and is located in River Forest, Illinois.

The 100% online PhD in Leadership: Gerontology program has a course length of 8 weeks. Students must complete 58 credit hours. The application deadline is rolling and is in a synchronous format with 3 or 4-year tracts being available.

• PhD in Leadership: Gerontology

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. George Fox University

Located in Newburg, Oregon, George Fox University is a Christian institution that was originally founded in 1891 as a school for Quakers.

The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program is delivered in the online format with an annual residency of one week on campus. There is a 56-credit-hour requirement to complete the course, and it takes 3 years to complete.

• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

George Fox is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

8. George Washington University

Established in 1821, George Washington University is located in Washington, DC.

The online PhD in Nursing program consists of 57 credit hours with some on-campus requirements and is delivered in a synchronous format.

The online PhD in Systems Engineering program consists of 54 credit hours and must be completed within 5 years.

• Online Ph.D. in Nursing
• Online Ph.D. in Systems Engineering

George Washington is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

9. Hampton University

Located in Hampton, Virginia, Hampton University is a historically black university established in 1888.

The university offers PhD programs in Business Administration (61 credit hours), Counselor Education & Supervision (61 credit hours), Educational Management (66 credits), and Nursing (54-60 credit hours).

A DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) program (33 credit hours) is also available.

• PhD in Business Administration
• PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
• PhD in Educational Management

Hampton U is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Indiana University

Established in 1820, Indiana University is located in Bloomington, Indiana.

The PhD in Nursing Science program (90 credit hours) is delivered 80-99% online in a hybrid, distance-accessible format, with synchronous video-conferencing to provide classroom interaction and two on-campus intensives to interact with peers and faculty.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Science

Indiana U is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

11. Iowa State University

As the largest university in the state of Iowa, Iowa State University is located in Ames, Iowa and was established in 1856.

The PhD program in Apparel Merchandising and Design is delivered in a hybrid format. It features 1-2 on-campus summer coursework sessions and has a 72-credit-hour requirement to complete the degree.

• Apparel, Merchandising, and Design – Doctor of Philosophy

Iowa State University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

12. Keiser University

Located in West Palm Beach, Florida, Keiser University was established in 1977.

The university offers a flexibly designed Doctor of Business Administration program that is delivered 100% online. Students can benefit from being able to pursue their careers, along with enhancing their educational qualifications. The program is offered at multiple locations in Florida.

• Business Administration, DBA

Keiser is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. Liberty University

Established in 1971, Liberty University is an Evangelical Christian university located in Lynchburg, Virginia.

The university offers a range of PhD programs in Bible Exposition, Communication, Counselor Education and Supervision, Criminal Justice, Education, Higher Education Administration, History, Nursing-Nursing Education, Psychology, Public Policy, Strategic Media Online.

Most are 100% online, delivered in an 8-week course format.

• Ph.D. in Bible Exposition
• Ph.D. in Communication
• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Ph.D. in Criminal Justice
• Ph.D. in Education
• Ph.D. in Higher Education Admin
• Ph.D. in History
• Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education
• Ph.D. in Psychology
• Ph.D. in Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Strategic Media Online

Liberty is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

14. Medical University of South Carolina

Located in Charleston, South Carolina, the Medical University of South Carolina was established in 1824.

The university’s College of Nursing offers both full-time and part-time PhD in Nursing programs. Both have 52 semester hours of coursework and 9 semester-hours for dissertation requirement and a 3-4-year plan of study. Only 10-12 students are accepted per year.

• PhD Nursing Science

MUSC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

15. Mississippi State University

Chartered in 1878, Mississippi State University is located adjacent to Starkville, Mississippi.

The university offers PhD programs in Aerospace/Civil Engineering, Community College Leadership, Computational Engineering, Electrical, and Computer Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.

Students must complete at least 50 hours of coursework beyond the master’s degree, of which at least 20 are allotted to dissertation research.

• Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering
• Ph.D. in Civil Engineering
• Ph.D. in Community College Leadership
• Ph.D. in Computational Engineering
• Ph.D. in Electrical & Computer Engineering
• Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering
• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Mississippi State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

16. Nova Southeastern University

With its main campus located in Davie, Florida, Nova Southeastern University was established in 1964.

The university offers online PhD programs in Conflict Analysis and Resolution (76 credit hours), Criminal Justice (60 credit hours), Nursing (60 credit hours), and Occupational Therapy (61 credit hours).

The university has 18 schools and colleges that offer 150 different programs, and students can select the appropriate one.

• Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis & Resolution
• Ph.D. in Nursing
• Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy

Nova Southeastern is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

17. Texas Tech University

Established in 1923, Texas Tech University is located in Lubbock, Texas.

The university offers several online PhD programs across its different schools and colleges, in Curriculum and Instruction (63 credit hours) in three different tracks, Educational Leadership Policy (60 credit hours), Family and Consumer Science Education (72 credit hours), Special Education (90 credit hours), Systems Engineering and Management (72 credit hours), and Technical Communication and Rhetoric (60 credit hours).

• Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction (Track in Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction (Track in Language, Diversity & Literacy Studies)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction (Track in STEM)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership Policy
• Doctor of Philosophy in Family and Consumer Science Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Special Education

Texas Tech is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. University at Buffalo – SUNY

The State University of New York at Buffalo has campuses in Amherst and Buffalo and was founded in 1846. It had several notable alumni on its rolls.

The university offers an online PhD in Information Science (72 credits) with the requirement of a one-week residency per year. Students can complete the course in 4-5 years.

• Curriculum, Instruction and the Science of Learning, PhD
• Information Science, PhD

UB – SUNY is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education,

19. University of Alabama

Established in 1820, the University of Alabama is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

The Bama By Distance online learning program offers a PhD in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics. The 72-credit-hour programs are designed for aerospace engineers with 5+ years’ experience in the field.

It is delivered primarily online with a campus visit requirement once each semester to meet faculty adviser.

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics

UA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

20. University of Arkansas

Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the University of Arkansas was established in 1871.

It has been judged to have one of the Best Online Programs in Grad Education by U.S. News & World Report . Online doctoral programs offered are Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, Doctor of Education in Human Resource & Workforce Education, Doctor of Education Adult & Lifelong Learning, and Doctor of Nursing Practice.

• Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
• Online Doctor of Education in Human Resource and Workforce Development Education
• Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

UArk is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

21. University of Florida

Founded in 1893, it is located in Gainesville, Florida.

Online PhD programs offered are in Latin & Roman Studies (60 credit hours, with 30 hours of doctoral work on-campus) and Classical Civilization (60 credit-hours with 30 hours of doctoral work on-campus). Written examinations and public defense of the dissertation are required.

• Classical Civilization (Ph.D.)
• Latin and Roman Studies (Ph.D.)

UFL is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

22. University of Louisiana at Monroe

Located in Monroe, Louisiana, the University of Louisiana at Monroe was established in 1931.

The university offers an online PhD program in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Systemic Studies. It consists of 60 semester-units, two years of full-time course-work, and dissertation.

• PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Systemic Studies

ULM is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

23. University of Missouri

Located in Columbia, Missouri, the University of Missouri was founded in 1893.

Online PhD programs include a PhD in Agricultural Education & Leadership (72 credit hours, blended delivery mode) and aPhD in Human Environmental Sciences (emphasis architectural studies, 30 credit hours, delivery 100% online).

• Doctor of philosophy in agricultural education and leadership (PhD)
• Doctor of philosophy in human environmental sciences with an emphasis in architectural studies (PhD)

Mizzou is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

24. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The state’s oldest university, it is located in Lincoln, Nebraska and was founded in 1869.

The online blended/hybrid Doctor of Education degree in Educational Studies (specialization: Higher Education & Educational Leadership) has a 90-credit-hour and a short residency requirement.

• PhD in Educational Studies (90 cr) with a specialization in Educational Leadership and Higher Education

UN – Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

25. University of North Dakota

Established in 1883, the University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

Online PhD programs are offered in Aerospace Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Nursing, all requiring 90 credit-hours. Indigenous Health requires 30 credit hours.

• Aerospace Sciences (Ph.D.)
• Biomedical Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Chemical Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Electrical Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Energy Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Environmental Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Indigenous Health (Ph.D.)
• Nursing (Ph.D.)
• Petroleum Engineering (Ph.D.)

UND is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

26. University of South Dakota

Located in Vermilion, South Dakota, the university was founded in 1862.

The online PhD in Health Sciences program is designed for working professionals. It has a 72-credit-hour requirement and is delivered in an online format with limited expectations for face-to-face contact. The residency includes orientation, dissertation boot-camp, and dissertation defense.

• Online Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences

USD is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

27. University of Southern California

The oldest research university in California, established in 1880, the university is located in Los Angeles, California.

Online doctoral programs include a Doctorate of Social Work, Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, and Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership.

• Doctorate of Social Work Online
• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership online
• Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership online

The University of Southern California  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

28. University of Texas at Tyler

Established in 1971, the University of Texas at Tyler is located in Tyler, Texas on a park-like campus on Harvey Lake.

The university offers online PhD programs in Clinical Psychology (99 credit hours), Nursing (60 credit hours), and Human Resource Development (hybrid, 60 credit hours). Scholarships and financial support are available based on eligibility.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology
• PhD in Nursing

UTT is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

29. University of the Cumberlands

Established in 1888, this Baptist Christian university is located in Williamsburg, Kentucky.

The online programs include a PhD in Business (66 credit hours), Counselor Education and Supervision (66 credit hours), and Leadership Studies (66 credit hours). Some courses may have online meeting times.

• online PhD in Business
• online PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision
• online PhD in Leadership Studies

UCumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

30. Virginia Commonwealth University

Located in Richmond, Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University was established in 1838.

The 100% online PhD in Nursing can be taken either on a full or part-time basis. There is a 61 minimum credit hour requirement, and the program is delivered 100% online.

VCU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Types of Online PhD Programs

There are as many PhD Programs as there are fields of knowledge. Here are the most popular. Click on one you’re interested in to jump to that section of the page.

Business Administration

Criminal justice, curriculum & instruction, educational leadership, healthcare management, higher education, homeland security, human resources, information technology, management information systems, nurse practitioner (rn required), nursing education (rn required), organizational leadership, project management, public administration, public health, public policy, special education, supply chain and logistics.

A growing number of universities now offer a wide-range of doctoral programs online.

A PhD in Accounting focuses on developing skills to complete specialized and original research that can directly contribute or, ultimately, affect the accounting industry.

This degree focuses on giving students advanced knowledge in applied research and accounting theory to make them capable of working in specialized research organizations and higher academic institutions.

A PhD in Accounting is the highest degree in this field, and it usually takes four to seven years to complete. Most online programs for accounting have 60 to 120 credit hours or 20 to 40 classes. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the positions in specialized consulting and government agencies will grow by 4% in over the next 10 years.

Programs for a PhD in Business Administration are designed to prepare students for academic and business careers by developing their knowledge in management, consulting, economics, public administration, and several business-related career paths.

This doctoral degree aims to provide students with a deeper understanding of different business practices, both in theory and application. Having this set of skills can unlock various opportunities in academic institutions, government agencies, and private businesses.

The majority of people who take up this degree usually have years of experience in business and are interested in acquiring advanced knowledge. Younger students can take advantage of this and get a head start in building their network and connection while still studying.

People face different challenges that can affect their mental health, which makes the PhD in Counseling one of the most popular doctoral degrees today. Earning this degree can help qualify students to practice clinical counseling and conduct research that can directly affect mental health care services.

It may take up to 10 years to earn a doctoral degree in counseling, but it will depend on the course load, and whether a student is taking up the degree part-time or full-time.

Upon completion, opportunities in both the public and private sectors will be available, and it is expected to steadily grow at 8-25%, depending on the field of specialization, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A PhD in Criminal Justice aims to expose students to rigorous training in criminological research methods, theory, and application.

This program focuses on providing students with a better understanding of research methods and data-driven metrics that they can use to evaluate and develop criminal justice policies.

Programs for PhD in Criminal Justice typically include classes in juvenile justice, social psychology, law enforcement, criminal behavior risk factors, homeland security, and technical leadership. This set of acquired knowledge can help open up different opportunities both in public service and specialized private consultation. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that positions for this field will increase by 8% in private service and 5% in protective service.

A PhD in Curriculum and Instruction is a program that focuses on teaching the dynamics within the educational system.

Students can choose from four concentrations in this field, including Early Childhood Education, Science Education, Mathematics Education, and Social Studies. The concentrations are designed to give students the skills needed to make significant research and contribution to the enhancement of knowledge in their specialized field.

This degree aims to shape students to become highly efficient in discovering, integrating, applying, communicating, and disseminating knowledge. Earning a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction can help students become critically reflective and dedicated to providing practical and theoretical training. This set of skills can open up different opportunities for academic and leadership positions that are available in educational institutions.

Earning a PhD in Education is the highest academic achievement that students can get in the field of education.

These programs are designed to provide students with the expertise, skills, and credentials needed to conduct and publish high-level research that can affect college education, classrooms, institutions, and communities.

There are online programs that allow students to earn their doctoral degrees in education, but on-campus learning often offers better networking opportunities that can broaden their connection. Pursuing a PhD in Education requires students to have a master’s degree. This path usually takes at least three years to complete, depending on the course load and transfer credits.

Excellent education lies in the people who develop the system and the leaders that implement it. A PhD in Educational Leadership can help put scholars in a position that can directly contribute to it.

This degree focuses on providing students with the skills to solve problems and create a positive change in different learning settings and educational institutions.

Instead of practicing hands-on teaching, PhD in Educational Leadership focuses on developing the education system.

It is designed to help students conduct and publish research that can positively affect all learning environments, including pre-K-12, higher education, and even in the corporate sector. This doctoral degree can help make scholars viable candidates for high-paying positions in the academic sector, such as chief academic officer, training and development manager, and chief learning officer.

A PhD in Finance is a program for students who want to develop a deeper understanding of behavioral finance, economics, statistics, econometrics, and corporate finance.

Taking up this degree can help equip students with better mathematics skills, analytical thinking, and a deeper foundation in all facets of finance and economics.

Although a bachelor’s or master’s degree will suffice in some positions, getting a PhD in this field can help solidify a student’s position for higher-paying jobs. Armed with a set of highly specialized skills in corporate finance, asset pricing, and portfolio management, students who earn their PhD in Finance have the opportunity to increase their skills in this field.

PhD in Healthcare Management focuses on a wide range of research that can directly affect healthcare services, management, and administration.

Students may tackle subjects regarding the impact of insurance status and policies on medical expenditure, sources of discrepancies in cardiovascular care, and diffusion and adoption of innovations in healthcare.

Doctoral students in the field of healthcare management may have the opportunity to work closely with degree holders and notable professionals in the healthcare sector. There is also usually great exposure to other students with hands-on experience in business, math, social science, and clinically trained professionals. This privilege can help make them more efficient as academic researchers and open up different long-term positions in the education and healthcare sectors.

A PhD in Higher Education is a program that aims to develop scholars who are capable of conducting original research and have the necessary skills to interpret and communicate it through writing, teaching, and practice.

The research includes theoretical and empirical inputs that can affect post-secondary education policies and practices.

Students who are taking up a PhD in Higher Education need to complete a program that usually includes 60-100 credit hours.

The classes that they tackled in this doctoral degree typically include economics, politics, policies, governance, organization, student affairs, and social foundations of higher education. Students can often complete this degree within four to five years, depending on their course load, and attendance to off-campus classes.

A PhD in Homeland Security focuses on classes that provide better understanding and expertise in different research methods, strategic and critical thinking, data analysis, and policies on domestic and international security issues.

Aside from government agencies, these skills are also viable for high-paying jobs in private corporations that deal with security and emergency management.

Professionals who are working in the security service, criminal justice, and emergency preparedness sectors can pursue better career paths by earning their doctoral degree in Homeland Security. This degree can help open up different opportunities in government agencies, and the majority of degree holders find comfortable positions within the Department of Homeland Security.

PhD in Human Resources is a research-based degree that is designed to allow students to conduct and publish their original work, which can directly affect human resources.

It is a degree that helps students learn advanced skills that they need in the theoretical and empirical application on leadership, management, and administration.

Students who decide to pursue their careers in human resources will usually take four to five years before they can earn a doctoral degree. Throughout their studies, scholars may have the chance to work closely with the faculty while conducting their research, together with professionals in different fields. The coursework usually involves hands-on activities in advanced human resources, helping students solidify their chosen career path.

A PhD in Information Technology often attracts students who are keen on acquiring advanced knowledge in corporate, economic, business, and organizational implications of information technology. This degree is the highest academic achievement in the field.

It can help provide students with the opportunity to take academic positions in the future. Earning their PhD in IT allows them to pursue teaching jobs at the university-level in information technology subjects, including economics, psychology, management science, organizational behavior, and computer science.

A PhD in Information Technology is a multidisciplinary program that offers concentrations in information science and technology, information systems, software engineering, information security, and digital forensics. This acquired knowledge and skillset can help students become viable candidates in almost every private and public sector.

A PhD in management is a research-based specialization that includes advanced learning in accounting, decision theory and analysis, IT and operations management, entrepreneurship, finance, economics, leadership, and marketing.

This degree is one of the two terminal degrees that students often take if they want to pursue an academic career at business schools.

Due to the broad spectrum of study and advanced foundation in fields that are in high demand, both in the private and public sectors, PhD in Management became one of the most popular doctoral degrees. Being exposed to different research on advanced management can help students’ skills and knowledge remain current in their chosen fields.

Earning a PhD in Management Information Systems is often vital for students who want to pursue a career in economic and organizational management and technical aspects of information systems.

It focuses on research that can help students develop a deeper understanding of the economic and social contexts, together with the impacts of information technology.

This doctoral degree is in the list of STEM Designated Degree Program, which is a list of degrees that are in high demand and receives the utmost attention from academic institutions and the government. Taking up a doctoral degree in Management Information Systems has endless potential and secured positions, with an estimated 1.2 million job openings.

A doctoral degree is one of the two terminal degrees for nurse practitioners. It is a research-based degree that covers nursing methodologies and faculty development, including theoretical and empirical applications in nursing science.

This degree usually involves minimal clinical work, and students typically work closely with faculty to conduct their research.

A PhD in Nurse Practitioner requires a master’s degree and usually requires about 60 to 80 credit hours. It typically takes four to six years to complete and can be affected by the student’s course load. Upon completion of this doctoral degree, students often take positions as nursing researchers, nursing faculty, and health policy development officers.

PhD in Nursing Education is a degree that aims to create scholars who are responsible for improving and innovating education for nurses.

It is designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of educational development, strategies, and research to continuously innovate nursing science and leadership to be efficient in practicing the discipline of nursing.

It also covers other curricular and research resources from various disciplines that can have an impact on nursing science. This vast acquired knowledge in different fields can help students tackle positions in nursing faculties in both the education and healthcare sectors. It usually takes at least three years for students to earn their PhD in Nursing Education.

The effectiveness of any organization lies in the leadership that manages it. Students who want to gain a better understanding of the theoretical and empirical applications of leadership should consider taking a PhD in Organizational Leadership.

This degree is often taken by professionals who are already familiar with their industry but lack leadership skills to lead a team and execute strategic plans on different projects.

Earning a PhD in Organizational Leadership can help amplify students’ current skill set and allow them to make an impact on their organization. This degree is designed to teach them how they can effectively build and manage teams for corporate and nonprofit organizations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job positions for leadership roles will grow by 7% for the next 10 years.

A PhD in Project Management is a program that focuses on creating scholars who deeply understand different subjects related to organizational efficiency and business management.

This degree is designed to provide students with skills that can help them manage teams, plan, coordinate, and create budgets for different projects.

Students who are taking up a PhD in Project Management typically select their concentration from program and portfolio management, project-based strategic leadership, risk and quality management, and life-cycle and performance management. Acquired knowledge in these concentrations can help students become viable candidates for different high paying positions, both in corporate organizations and government agencies.

PhD in Psychology is a program that focuses on the study and research of the entire mental health spectrum. It covers a wide range of research and practice areas, which includes counseling, therapy, social work, and even education.

It is the ultimate pursuit of academic excellence in the field of Psychology and can help students pursue careers that allow them to practice the profession or provide specialized consulting services.

Earning a PhD in Psychology usually takes four to eight years, and it depends on whether the students take the course part-time or full-time. The programs often have at least three full academic years and one year of internship for APA accreditation.

A PhD in Public Administration is the highest applied-research degree that students can take in the field. Scholars in this field are typically required to complete a dissertation, which can contribute, improve, or innovate the practice of public administration, both theoretically and empirically.

The goal of the program is to expose scholars to significant research in their careers, whether in academic, government or other work settings.

This degree can help students acquire advanced knowledge in the legal, political, and ethical practices in public administration. It can also help students develop a deeper understanding of the administrative functions of government agencies, together with the expertise in strategic planning, program implementation, advanced management techniques, and result-based leadership.

A PhD in Public Health is a program that aims to provide scholars with advanced critical thinking and assessment skills. These skills can help them learn how to assess needs, analyze barriers, and create a positive impact on the practice of public health.

Pursuing this degree can help scholars acquire a better understanding of population-based theoretical research that can lead to the prevention of diseases and disabilities.

Students earning their doctoral degrees in public health can work on the skills they need to be efficient in biostatistics, epidemiology, or public health research.

Most of these fields require students to lead and use professional communication to inform and educate the public regarding critical issues in health. Faculty member, professor, and post-doctoral fellow are other high-demand positions that students can pursue as a degree holder in public health.

A PhD in Public Policy is a degree that focuses on developing leaders equipped with a deeper understanding of research, ethics, public policy theory, and global practice.

In essence, it is a career path that students often take if they want to develop sustainable solutions that can have a positive impact on the quality of life.

Taking up a doctoral degree in Public Policy can help students tackle leadership concepts and theories, analysis of evidence-based research, and develop methods that streamline the processes of public and nonprofit policies. These skills can help them become viable candidates for positions such as senior public executives, policy analysts, or offer specialized consulting services.

The PhD in Special Education is the highest level of research-based degree in the field. This degree is designed to help students develop new pedagogical approaches and concepts that can improve the quality of education for differently-abled children.

Earning a doctoral degree in special education can also expose students to various educational courses that can help them become efficient in providing quality education to tomorrow’s teachers.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the positions available for doctoral degree holders in special education will grow by as much as 6% over the next 10 years. These positions include education directors, curriculum developers, school principals, childcare administrators, and superintendents.

PhD in Logistics is a program designed to expose students to extensive study in theories, logistics, strategies, and application of supply chain management. It can help students learn all aspects of managing and operating the supply chain, which affects the production and distribution of a product.

The courses that students typically tackle in this degree include the concepts of demand and relationship management, forecasting, inventory, purchasing, and assembly.

This degree can help students develop a deeper understanding of the logistical systems, supply chain technology, research methods, and transportation economics. Being knowledgeable in the development, manufacturing, and logistics of products can help open up different high paying positions in product-based corporations. It is potentially one of the highest paying doctoral degrees and usually provides much room for growth and development.

What Are the Highest Paying Doctoral Degrees?

Earning a doctoral degree can help scholars build a deeper foundation in their chosen field and open up better career paths. Although getting a PhD almost guarantees a better position, some doctoral degrees are more rewarding.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following careers and average salaries represent the top 10% of wage earners in their respective fields:

Factors that may raise or lower your salary, besides your level of education, include your experience, the industry in which you work, and your location.

Salary Increase

One of the most rewarding benefits of earning a graduate degree is the potential to increase your salary. The U.S. Census Bureau found that over the course of a person’s lifetime, someone with a doctoral degree earns $3.4 million on average.

Compare that with someone with a bachelor’s degree, who earns $2.1 million on average over the course of their lifetime. Earning an accelerated PhD could mean earning more than $1 million more.

Not all doctorates will bring in the same salary increase. LinkedIn indicates that people with PhD’s who work in the fields of Science and Engineering usually see the best pay overall. For example, the top 10% of medical scientists make, on average, close to $160,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bottom 10% make just over $40,000 per year.

The primary difference between the top 10% and the bottom 10% is education level and experience. PhD holders in the sciences typically make much more money than those who only hold their bachelor’s or master’s degree.

What Are the Most Popular Doctorate Degrees?

The highest paying doctoral degrees are not always the most rewarding path. Taking up a popular degree, for example, can expose students to more people, and some of them may have years of experience in their chosen field.

Having this academic setting may help students to improve their existing network and might unlock several high-paying positions that seek the specialization that they have.

Which PhD program you choose should depend on your interests and overall job satisfaction, not the potential salary level alone.

Intellectual Curiosity

Many people pursue their PhD because of their intellectual curiosity and desire to learn. For fields that don’t report a significant pay increase over a master’s or bachelor’s degree (like the humanities), PhD holders often spend the years it takes earning their degree for personal fulfillment and ambition. Sometimes that payoff is enough.

If you’re interested in pursuing your PhD for these reasons, there are many accelerated PhD programs available online to help your dream of being called “Doctor” one day come true. Some people even earn a PhD in a field unrelated to their primary career because of their love for learning and their desire to pursue other topics and subjects.

Careers that Require a PhD

There are a handful of careers that require a PhD before you’ll even be considered for the job. This is because the training required to perform well at these jobs is only available through doctoral level programs. Most people obtain their PhD because they have their eye on these specific jobs. The following careers are usually only attainable to people who hold PhD’s:

• Psychologist
• Higher Education Administration (President, Dean, etc.)
• Prestigious Appointments on Corporate and Federal Boards

Many careers and fields, however, still highly value someone who holds a PhD even if it’s not required to perform the job. These are common career fields that look to doctorate holders to lead and innovate:

• Healthcare (Nursing and Public Health/Policy)
• Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Neuroscience)
• Engineering

The reality is that most people who hold a doctorate often automatically receive more respect and reverence than those who don’t. It’s a prestigious degree that only about one percent of the population holds. Many of the most respected intellectuals and leaders of corporations and organizations have a doctoral degree because of this reason.

Some universities even offer a doctorate degree online no dissertation requirement for students who prefer not to spend the extra time required to complete a dissertation.

Even if your field doesn’t require a doctorate, it may be beneficial to your advancement in your field, a potential salary increase, and your own personal ambitions of holding one of the most prestigious degrees available.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Doctorate Degree?

There are two major types of doctoral degrees that students can earn; research-based and professional application. Both degrees require them to have a master’s degree, and if they already have one, it usually takes four to six years on average to earn their PhD.

On the other hand, students who are pursuing doctoral degrees part-time may take up to 10 years.

The time they need to complete a doctoral degree will depend on the program design and the area of specialization that they are taking. PhD programs usually require students to take 60 to 120 credit hours or about 20 to 40 classes.

However, some programs are streamlined and accelerated to help them earn their doctoral degree faster. If you have a tight schedule, then part time PhD programs are another option instead of accelerated programs.

Those who are pursuing a doctoral degree full-time can look for programs that have creative credit transfers, which can help them get their PhD within three years. These programs typically offer minimal on-campus obligations, giving scholars better flexibility in earning their degrees.

How to Accelerate Your Online PhD

Whether you’re searching for 1 year online doctoral programs or for a way to finish in 2 years, you may be able to accelerate the path to your doctorate.

Since you’ll already be expected to have completed a good amount of previous college training, there aren’t as many ways to accelerate a PhD as there are an associate, bachelor, or master’s degree. There are many accelerated PhD programs, however, that can help you move straight through a bachelor’s degree to a PhD.

In other words, you can apply to begin a bachelor’s degree with a program with the commitment and intention of following all the way through to a PhD as the final earned degree. These programs are designed so that you can earn your bachelor’s degree along the way and complete your PhD in as little as six years (including all the work you had to do towards the bachelor’s degree).

Most PhD programs take much longer than this, so this can be a great way to accelerate your degree. Alternatively, some programs award a terminal master’s degree as part of the PhD program.

If you don’t finish all the requirements for your PhD, you may still walk away with a master’s degree in your field, all of your work not having gone to waste.

Some accelerated PhD options online include accelerated courses as well. These courses can help you complete more credit hours in less amount of time and are great when you have some extra time to spare in your schedule.

They might not be as prevalent as accelerated courses at the undergraduate level, but many graduate programs online offer them as well. They are worth looking into if you’re itching to complete your degree quickly.

Advantages of Accelerated PhD Programs

Many traditional PhD programs can take a long time to complete. In fact, many programs allow students upwards of 10 years or more to complete all requirements of their degree, knowing that some students get stalled in the research and writing process.

Sometimes, having too much time to complete a degree can be detrimental to your progress and completion of that degree, especially when it comes to such an advanced degree like a PhD. Enrolling in an accelerated PhD program can encourage you to stay on track with your studies and finish within a reasonable time.

Just because you’ll be completing your doctorate online and in an accelerated format doesn’t mean the rigor or intensity of the program will be less. In fact, because you’ll probably be doing it in less time, it may be more. Most programs require a dissertation or large research project as a capstone to fulfilling the degree requirements.

Many PhD programs also require lengthy and difficult tests before they will allow students to advance to candidacy. Online degrees are not much different in regards to these expectations.

The Chronicle of Higher Education reports that the attrition rate for PhD programs is only 50%, which means that only one out of two people who begin a PhD program actually finish their degree.

It’s a sobering statistic, but it attests to the fact that a PhD is not a degree you can earn overnight. Even in an accelerated format, a doctorate takes time, effort, and dedication.

Since many people go back for their PhD’s after having already started a career in their field, choosing an accelerated PhD format might allow you to remain in your career while completing your degree. This is another benefit to completing a degree online rather than having to commute somewhere each week to complete coursework.

Finally and perhaps an overlooked advantage of these programs is that you’ll have the opportunity to network with people from across the nation. If getting a PhD means a potential climb up the ladder in your field, the rewards of moving for a job are probably worth it to you.

What better way to learn about job openings and potentials than in your online classes? Most jobs are advertised through word of mouth, so working with people from different regions and locations from where you are might open your eyes to an opportunity you never knew was there.

Getting a PhD is a serious commitment and not something you should decide on a whim to do. It can be tiring and stressful, but so very rewarding. If you complete your PhD, you’ll be one of only a small percentage of Americans who have one, and the job opportunities for you to do what you really love will most likely increase.

Accelerated PhD’s are convenient and can help you actualize your goals of earning the highest degree you can earn in your field.

Accreditation for an Online PhD Program

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation or CHEA reviews regional accrediting bodies to ensure that students receive the highest standard of education that meets local demands. In turn, these accrediting bodies evaluate academic institutions or online programs within the institution.

This process aims to regulate and ensure that the quality of education is current, practical, and is following the curriculum requirements in PhD programs.

Regional accreditation evaluates the learning process in different online programs, ensuring that students are spending money on education that employers will recognize. Look for accreditation from one of these regional boards:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Regional accreditation of a program act as a guarantee of the value of the diploma that students receive upon completion of their course.

Financial Aid for PhD Students

On average, a PhD program costs $18,000, and taking up a five-year plan will cost at least $90,000. This amount is on top of the living expenses that students need to tank when pursuing their doctoral degrees.

However, there are different financial aids that they can pursue to fund their studies and earn their postgraduate degrees without going into debt.

Here are the types of financial aids that may be available for PhD students:

• Scholarships are the most common merit-based financial aid that students can receive. These programs can help in covering the cost of tuition and other fees that are related to earning their doctoral degrees.
• Grants are similar to scholarships, but it is for students with the need for financial assistance. Students who want to apply for grants will have to go through different evaluations to be eligible for it.
• Fellowships are programs that can provide financial aid to students who are pursuing doctoral degrees. These aids often cover the full tuition, together with a yearly stipend that students can use to cover other expenses related to earning their degrees.

You can find out what you qualify for at the federal level by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Questions Related to Earning a PhD Online

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have.

Can I Get My PhD Online?

Yes, it is possible to get a PhD from online programs. These programs receive regular innovations up to the point that it became the most attractive method of earning a PhD.

Today, there are 205 accredited academic institutions in the United States offering thousands of online programs that help students get their doctoral degrees.

Are Online PhD Programs Credible?

Yes, earning a PhD from online programs is a recognized achievement by employers. However, the credibility of this degree depends on the accreditation of the institution where students received it.

Regional accreditation is the process of evaluating academic institutions to ensure that students will complete a program that follows the strict guidelines and curriculum requirements of CHEA.

How Much Do Online PhD Programs Cost?

The cost of taking up online PhD programs will vary on the specialization that students want to take. On average, earning a PhD from online programs costs $4,000 to $20,000, and this amount includes the expenses for registration, books, and online coaching.

Taking a five-year plan, which is the average for most PhD courses, typically costs $20,000 to $100,000.

What Are the Best Online PhD Programs?

The best online PhD programs are those that lead you to a balance of a career you enjoy and the salary you’re comfortable with. This balance will depend on your interests.

Online learning offers a wide range of benefits, including flexibility in scheduling and defining the learning pace that is comfortable for students. However, not all online programs are made equal.

Scholars can find the PhD courses best suited for them by checking the rates, courses that they will take, the size of the classes, and regional accreditation from organizations that CHEA recognizes in evaluating PhD programs.

Is PhD Worth It?

Yes, a PhD is worth it for many students. A PhD is the highest academic achievement that any student can get, and may give a significant boost in the career path that they choose. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers “with an advanced degree, particularly a Ph.D., are expected to have the best opportunities.”

Acquiring advanced knowledge and highly-specialized skills in their field can help students become viable candidates in different high-paying positions. The unemployment rate for doctoral degree holders is only 1.1%, as opposed to 2% for master’s degree holders.

Universities are continuously innovating their PhD programs, making it easier for students to earn their diplomas without compromising the quality of education. With these programs, students can apply to an online PhD program and start pursuing a better career path with minimal on-campus obligations.

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15 Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs – 2024

April 24, 2024

If you’re looking to attain a terminal degree but want to skip the commute to campus, an online doctoral program might be a great option for you. As our world becomes increasingly digital, many top universities have branched out into online learning, offering online PhD and doctoral programs that are just as rigorous as their in-person counterparts. Online graduate education can offer aspiring doctoral students flexibility, a high-quality education, and the option to continue working while pursuing a degree.

Many of the universities below in our round-up of the best online doctoral programs offer degrees in education—a common track for teachers looking to advance their careers. But universities across the country offer a wide range of degrees in everything from engineering management to library science. Read on for everything you need to know as you consider applying.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctoral Degree Online?

Online doctoral programs are often designed with full-time professionals in mind, prioritizing flexibility so that you can complete your degree at your own pace. Program lengths will vary, but most will take four to seven years. For students who need to take things slower, many programs offer options to spread degree requirements out over time. When applying, here are a few good questions to ask your admissions officer:

• How long do most graduate students take to complete their degrees?
• Are there flexible options for how many courses you’ll take per term?
• Will you pay tuition per semester or per credit hour? If paying by credit hour, will you able to choose how many classes you take each semester?
• Will you be required to write a dissertation? If so, how long do students usually take to write them?

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Is an Online PhD Program a Good Fit for Me?

There’s no denying it: online doctoral programs are different than traditional ones. Many traditional PhD programs are designed for future academics, aka for graduate students who intend to apply for jobs as university professors after graduation. Traditional PhD programs are full-time, research-focused, in-person, and often offer graduate students funding in exchange for teaching or research assistant responsibilities. Online doctoral programs do also involve research, but most online graduate students are not full-time students. Rather, many students enrolled in online doctoral programs are working professionals who attend classes in the evenings or asynchronously. With that in mind, an online program can be a fantastic opportunity to further your current career.

An online doctorate program could be a great fit for you if:

• You want to advance your career. A doctorate can lead to further opportunities for promotion and certain fields offer automatic pay increases for people with advanced degrees.
• You love research and want to develop expertise in a topic that fascinates you.
• You learn well in online settings, including asynchronous classes.
• You plan to continue working while you study.

Online doctoral programs typically do not offer their students funding, though there may be scholarships and grants available to you.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – What to Consider When Choosing an Online Doctorate Program

Since a doctorate can take 4-7 years or more to complete, choosing the right school for you is a huge decision. Our list below dives into many details you’ll need to know like acceptance rate, retention rate, and cost of tuition. It’s important to consider big-picture factors such as:

• Time to complete degree
• Professors and mentors—you’ll want to make sure you can study with faculty who have expertise in your academic interests
• Flexibility—does the program fit with your schedule? Do they require any in-person meetings?
• Graduation rate—ask your admissions officer for the most recent figures

You’ll also want to consider whether you want to pursue a PhD or a doctorate degree. If you’re pursuing a PhD, you can expect to focus more significantly on academic research and you’ll need to complete a dissertation. A doctorate is an equivalent degree that is less focused on academic research and may not require a dissertation. Doctorates can often involve more career development or hands-on practicum experience.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Are Online PhDs Respected?

Yes, online doctoral programs are just as rigorous and respected as their in-person counterparts. If you hope to earn a tenure-track faculty position at a university, it’s likely a traditional PhD program will be a better route. However, if you’re seeking a doctorate for career advancement and further learning, an online doctoral program can be a great fit. Many of the most prestigious universities offer online programs, and your diploma will likely not specify whether you completed an online or traditional degree.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – What Do I Need to Apply?

Application requirements will vary depending on the program you’re applying to. All programs will require your academic transcripts, many require letters of recommendation, and some require GRE scores. On top of that, some programs will require a personal statement or writing portfolio. Contrary to what you might think, Master’s degrees are not always required for admission to online doctoral programs.

The Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs

1) university of florida.

Located in Gainesville, the University of Florida offers 10 different online doctoral programs . Well known for its graduate programs in education, educators can pursue PhDs in educational leadership, special education, computer science education, among other options. UF also offers online programs in nursing, Latin and Roman studies, microbiology, and a few other fields. Established in 1853, UF is a flagship state university with a strong reputation.

• Graduation Rate: 89%
• Acceptance Rate: 31%
• In State Tuition: $6,380
• Out of State Tuition: $28,658
• Application Requirements: Application portfolio (sample essays or projects), GRE scores, minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.4 or graduate GPA of 3.5, letters of recommendation

2) George Washington University

George Washington University ’s Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering leads the way with the university’s most comprehensive online PhD offerings . Through them, students can pursue doctoral degrees in cybersecurity analytics, engineering in artificial intelligence, systems engineering, or engineering management. Educators can also pursue well-respected degrees in education leadership and human and organizational learning.

• Graduation Rate: 85%
• Acceptance Rate: 43%
• Tuition: $31,770
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, personal statement, letters of recommendation, academic records

3) Johns Hopkins University

• A ten-year-old program , Johns Hopkins ’ online PhD in education allows students to specialize in digital age learning, entrepreneurial leadership, urban leadership, and other topics. Note their high graduation rate: Johns Hopkins is a competitive program , but admitted students are well-supported on their path to graduation.
• Graduation Rate: 94%
• Acceptance Rate: 11%
• Tuition: $57,010
• Application Requirements: Master’s degree, minimum GPA of 3.0

Best Online Doctoral Programs/PhD Programs (Continued)

4) texas tech university.

Texas Tech University offers a wide range of online and hybrid PhD programs that provide their students flexibility as they work toward completing their terminal degree. An affordable university in Lubbock, Texas Tech is a great place for future doctors of education, consumer science, technical communication, engineering management, and financial planning.

• Graduation Rate: 63%
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• In State Tuition: $6,788
• Out of State Tuition: $14,968
• Application Requirements: Academic transcripts, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

5) Iowa State University

Although Iowa State University ’s online doctorate programs require some in-person meetings, ISU may still be a good fit for online students. With more uncommon online doctoral programs in hospitality management and apparel, merchandising, and design, ISU offers flexible routes to completing your dissertation.

• Graduation Rate: 75%
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• In State Tuition: $9,758
• Out of State Tuition: $24,720
• Application Requirements: Academic records, minimum 3.0 GPA

6) University of Alabama

Online University of Alabama students may miss out on a lively campus culture and football games, but they can still take advantage of UA’s top-notch academics. Well-known for its online education graduate programs, UA also offers programs in social work, communication and information sciences, and engineering.

• Graduation Rate: 72%
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• In State Tuition: $11,940
• Out of State Tuition: $32,300
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic records

7) University of Missouri

One of the most robust in terms of online offerings, the University of Missouri ’s online PhD classes are taught by the same professors who teach Mizzou’s in-person classes. Mizzou offers programs in education and nursing. They also allow students to pursue doctorates in harder-to-find subjects like health sciences, agriculture, architecture, and library science.

• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Acceptance Rate: 82%
• In State Tuition: $9,478
• Out of State Tuition: $25,946
• Application Requirements: Academic record, minimum GPA of 3.0, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

8) University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

One of the oldest public universities in the U.S., University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill is known as a leader in education. UNC Chapel Hill offers just three online PhDs: public health, nursing, and education. Although some online classes require in-person or proctored final exams, doctoral requirements can mostly be completed online.

• Graduation Rate: 91%
• Acceptance Rate: 25%
• In State Tuition: $9,208
• Out of State Tuition:  $36,891
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic records, letters of recommendation, personal statement

9) Georgia Southern University

Located in Savannah, Georgia Southern University works hard to create an environment of support and collaboration, even online. One of the more robust programs out there, GSU offers respected online programs in public health, nursing, education, and engineering.

• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• In State Tuition: $4,986
• Out of State Tuition: $19,890
• Application Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0

10) Indiana University

Indiana University allows students to study at their own pace through flexible online doctoral programs. One of the only schools to offer online programs in music therapy and philanthropy leadership, IU also allows students to pursue tracks in health sciences, education, and computing and technology. Most classes are asynchronous and students can take courses through any IU campus.

• Graduation Rate: 41%
• Acceptance Rate: 92%
• In State Tuition: $9732
• Out of State Tuition: $21,160
• Application Requirements: GRE scores, academic record

11) Mississippi State University

A solid option for future doctors of philosophy, Mississippi State University is a research-focused and inclusive university. An especially strong option for those looking to study engineering or computer science, MSU offers 9 different majors within those fields.  MSU also offers tracks in plant science and education leadership.

• Graduation Rate: 64%
• In State Tuition: $9,398
• Out of State Tuition: $25,444
• Application Requirements: Academic record, letters of recommendation, personal statement

12) Appalachian State University

Although Appalachian State University is known for its beautiful setting in Boone, North Carolina, App State still has much to offer online students. This school offers only one part-time PhD program in education leadership , but its affordability compared to other programs makes this school stand out.

• In State Tuition: $4,839
• Out of State Tuition: $18,271
• Application Requirements: Academic record, GRE scores or 3.0 minimum GPA, Master’s degree

13) Purdue University

An online doctoral program that maintains a high standard of excellence, Purdue is a great place for future doctors of technology, educational leadership and policy, and higher education. Purdue graduate students can expect to co-author papers with faculty and gain hands-on experience in research.

• Graduation Rate: 38%
• Acceptance Rate: 30%
• Tuition: $420 per credit

14) Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University ’s online doctoral programs allow students to complete their degree in three to five years. Through their shortened term system, students take 8-week classes and then write their dissertation in their final three semesters. A leader in online doctoral programs, Concordia offers paths in strategic innovation, healthcare management, education leadership, and organizational leadership.

• Tuition: $9,090
• Application Requirements: Academic record, Master’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, portfolio and personal statement varies by program

15) Clemson University

A public school in South Carolina, Clemson aims to prepare online doctoral students for diverse career paths. Proudly offering programs that are difficult to find elsewhere, Clemson graduate students can study healthcare genetics and parks, recreation, and tourism management. Education professionals can complete degrees in education systems, learning science, and teaching, literacy, language, and culture.

• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Acceptance Rate: 49%
• In State Tuition: $10,600
• Out of State Tuition: $22,050
• Application Requirements: Academic record, letters of recommendation, portfolio and personal statement vary by program

The Best Online Doctoral Programs – Additional Resources

Looking to learn more about graduate school admissions? We’ve got you covered.

Admissions Tips

• What is a Good GRE Score?
• Write a Grad School Statement of Purpose in 12 Simple Steps
• How to Get into Grad School with a Low GPA
• Do You Need a Master’s to get a PhD?

More about Online Learning

• Best Online MSW Programs
• Best Master’s in Public Health Online Programs
• Hybrid and Online DBA Programs 
• Graduate School Admissions

Christina Wood

Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.

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Top 25 Online PhD Programs

A Ph.D. is a terminal degree that establishes the holder as an expert in his or her field. Learners in some areas of study can pursue a research-focused doctor of philosophy degree or a practice-based doctorate. Several accredited colleges and universities offer rigorous online Ph.D. programs.

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals with a doctorate earn more than other workers. Doctoral degree-holders are also less likely to be unemployed compared to professionals with less education. Additionally, the BLS projects positive growth rates for most occupations requiring a doctoral degree, including postsecondary teaching positions.

Popular Online Doctoral Programs

What is an online ph.d..

Online doctoral programs usually follow the same curricula as their on-campus counterparts. Doctoral degrees typically require 60 credits beyond the master’s level, which include coursework and dissertation research and writing.

Many doctoral programs require students to take a qualifying exam after two or three semesters of enrollment. Some schools also mandate that doctoral students take a comprehensive exam after completing coursework and before beginning their dissertation. Doctoral programs typically culminate in an oral dissertation defense before a panel of experts.

Why Get a Ph.D. Online?

Online Ph.D. programs offer several advantages over on-campus options. The list below includes five common benefits of completing a Ph.D. program online.

• Flexible Schedule: Many online doctoral programs feature an asynchronous format, allowing students to access class material at convenient times. However, most programs do set a deadline for the completion of course requirements.
• Higher Income Potential: Companies, federal agencies, and private institutions usually offer higher salaries to job applicants with a relevant doctoral degree.
• Lower Costs: Although most doctoral students receive institutional funding and awards from private or federal agencies, this funding may not cover all expenses. Online learning often reduces costs associated with transportation and living expenses.
• Minimal Disruption: Online doctoral students do not need to relocate to earn their degree. Additionally, many online learners work while pursuing their doctorate, especially those enrolled part time.
• Professional Requirement: Candidates typically need a doctorate to qualify for tenure-track positions in academia, leadership roles in industry, and top-level government jobs.

Accreditation for an Online Ph.D. Program

Accreditation is a voluntary process that colleges and universities undergo in order to receive recognition for the quality of their educational programs and their overall institutional soundness. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee the accreditation process in the United States.

Academic-focused nonprofit institutions typically earn regional accreditation, while career-centered vocational or sectarian schools often receive national accreditation. Because regional accreditors generally apply more rigorous standards than national accrediting bodies, regional accreditation is considered the more prestigious type. However, national accreditors must meet ED and CHEA requirements for accreditation standards and processes.

ED and CHEA also oversee programmatic accreditors, which evaluate programs in certain fields. For example, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology accredits computer and engineering programs. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredits schools that offer at least 51% of their programs in an online format.

No accrediting body currently focuses on doctoral programs. Learners should ensure that any prospective institution holds regional accreditation.

Courses in an Online Ph.D. Program

In addition to specialization classes, most on-campus and online Ph.D. programs include coursework that covers general topics. These classes help students develop foundational skills they can apply throughout their doctoral studies and in their professional practice.

These classes cover basic skills such as research and writing, and doctoral students prepare to apply these concepts at an advanced level. Many schools require Ph.D. students to complete the following courses, regardless of their field.

Research comprises a major part of most doctoral programs. Even learners pursuing a practice-focused doctorate must complete a significant amount of in-depth research. Most programs require learners to complete a doctorate-level research course prior to beginning their dissertation. Doctoral degree-holders who enter positions in academia apply research skills throughout their career.

Academic Writing

Doctoral-level courses on academic writing help students gain the tools and techniques they need to write their dissertation. Graduates of Ph.D. programs often contribute to their field’s existing body of knowledge by authoring white papers and articles in industry journals, writing books, and drafting research proposals and reports. These activities require clear and concise writing skills.

Although doctoral degree-holders can secure high-level positions in industry and government, many pursue tenure-track positions in colleges and universities. For this reason, doctoral programs often include coursework in pedagogy. Students learn about various teaching methodologies, prepare to develop syllabi, and explore non-classroom learning activities. Some pedagogy classes include classroom teaching opportunities.

Communication and Presentation

Classes in communication and presentation skills are similar to teaching courses but typically have a wider scope. These classes prepare learners to defend their dissertation, which almost always involves an oral presentation. Since many doctoral degree-holders pursue leadership positions, strong communication skills are crucial to professional success.

Computer and Software

Regardless of their field or career aspirations, doctoral degree-holders need computer skills to succeed professionally. Some fields, such as engineering, require proficiency in industry-specific software. Doctoral students should master this software to complete research activities and to qualify for top-level positions. Doctoral programs often allow students to enroll in computer classes through another institution.

How Much Do Ph.D. Graduates Make?

Earning a Ph.D. can lead to personal, professional, and financial benefits. Ph.D. students gain comprehensive, advanced knowledge in their area, and many doctoral degree-holders enjoy positions of authority.

According to the BLS, professionals with a doctorate earned a median salary of $1,883 per week in 2019, more than individuals of any other education level. Master’s degree-holders, on the other hand, earned a weekly median salary of $1,497. Professionals with a bachelor’s degree earned a median of $1,248 per week.

The same data shows that doctoral degree-holders experience a 1.1% unemployment rate, the lowest of any workers. The unemployment rates for master’s and bachelor’s degree-holders in 2019 were 2% and 2.2%, respectively. Many graduates of Ph.D. programs enter occupations with faster-than-average growth rates. For example, the BLS projects employment for medical scientists to increase 6% from 2019 to 2029. The BLS projects a 9% growth for postsecondary teachers and 13% employment growth for audiologists during the same time frame.

Career and Salary Outlook for Ph.D. Graduates

Doctoral degree-holders often work in top-level positions in various industries, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, and academia. The rigorous training and discipline of a doctoral program makes graduates valuable and respected professionals. Doctoral degree-holders typically occupy positions with above-average job security and salaries. The four career options below require at least a postgraduate degree, preferably a doctorate.

• Postsecondary Teacher : College professors teach courses in their subject area. They typically lead lectures, class projects, and learning activities outside the classroom. These professionals track students’ progress through tests, term papers, projects, and class participation. Postsecondary instructors often confer and collaborate with colleagues who teach other subjects.
• Instructional Coordinator : Also known as curriculum specialists, instructional coordinators evaluate schools’ curricula and teaching techniques to ensure they adhere to federal regulations and district standards. These professionals review test data, observe teachers in the classroom and other educational settings, and conduct compliance training and information sessions.
• Elementary, Middle, and High School Principal : School principals often manage administrative staff, evaluate teacher performance, impose disciplinary action, meet with parents, and create safe learning environments. Principals also oversee expenses to make sure their school operates within budget. Principals may also work to maintain curriculum standards and provide career advancement opportunities for teachers.
• Postsecondary Education Administrator : Postsecondary education administrators at small institutions often perform several functions. They coordinate student services, oversee admissions and enrollment, manage budgets and expenses, and schedule classes. Large universities usually have administrators for specific sectors. For example, an academic provost may assist the university president with faculty appointments, educational policies, and curriculum issues.

Source: BLS

Scholarships for an Online Ph.D. Program

Many universities offer fellowships and scholarships to support Ph.D. students. Learners can also apply for funding opportunities from nonprofit organizations and federal agencies. Fellowships and other doctoral funding options do not require repayment. However, recipients may need to fulfill research or teaching requirements.

American Educational Research Association Dissertation Grants Who can Apply: AERA accepts applications from advanced doctoral students who need additional funding to conduct research and write their dissertation. Applicants must be enrolled in an education-related doctoral program in a field such as psychology, public policy, economics, or political science. Applicants must hold U.S. citizenship or be enrolled in a U.S. doctoral program. Amount: $25,000

American Marketing Association Valuing Diversity Ph.D. Scholarship Who can Apply: This scholarship accepts applications from members of underrepresented ethnic groups pursuing a doctorate in marketing. Applicants must identify as African American, Hispanic American, or Native American and must have completed at least one year of doctoral studies. Amount: $1,000

Department of Energy Computational Science Graduate Fellowship Who can Apply: DOE accepts applications from master’s and doctoral students whose studies focus on the use of advanced computing technology to solve complex engineering and science problems. Acceptable fields of study include applied mathematics, astrophysics, environmental science, and mechanical engineering. Applicants must hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency status. Amount: Full tuition and fees, plus a $38,000 annual stipend

Mellon International Dissertation Research Fellowship Who can Apply: The Social Science Research Council awards this fellowship to doctoral students conducting research in the humanities and social sciences. Qualifying fields of study include art history, theater, literature, philosophy, and religion. The fellowship funds research that can only be completed onsite, where the researcher must be at a specific location for an extended period. The program accepts applications from U.S. citizens and doctoral students enrolled in an accredited U.S. institution. Amount: Varies (projected average award for 2021 is $23,000)

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program Who can Apply: The National Science Foundation awards funding to students pursuing a research-based master’s or doctorate in a STEM field at an accredited U.S. institution. The foundation encourages applications from members of underrepresented groups, such as persons with disabilities, minorities, veterans, and women. Amount: $34,000

Top 25 Ph.D. Programs Online

1. azusa pacific university.

Azusa Pacific University offers online doctoral programs with low residency requirements in nursing, higher education, and rehabilitation and movement science.

APU offers a doctor of nursing practice degree accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The program offers an optional specialization in oncology. Learners must complete 1,000 hours of clinical residency and an evidence-based project.

Students can pursue a doctor of education in higher education leadership (51 credits) or a doctor of philosophy in higher education (60 credits). Both programs follow a cohort model of education and require enrollees to participate in on-campus learning activities at specific times during their enrollment.

The Ph.D. in rehabilitation and movement science offers courses online throughout the year but it requires students to participate in two one-week on-campus sessions each year. Applicants must have at least one year of work experience as licensed clinical health practitioners. Azusa Pacific University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

2. Baker University

The School of Education at Baker University offers an online doctor of education in instructional design and performance technology. The 59-credit program includes 27 core coursework credits, six credits for research and statistical analysis, four credits for directed field experience, and 20 credits of dissertation development. The remaining two credits are reserved for portfolio presentation.

Applicants need a master’s degree in the field or a closely related area with a final GPA of at least 3.5. Master’s degree-holders may transfer up to eight credits toward the Ed.D. Students with a specialist degree (Ed.S.) or credits from another doctoral program may transfer up to 12 credits. Transfer credits must undergo a transcript review by the program coordinator before they can be counted toward the Ed.D.

The program follows a cohort model of education, with each course lasting seven weeks. Students start their dissertation during the third year of the program and must complete all coursework requirements within two years. Baker University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. Bradley University

The online doctor of education in higher education administration at Bradley University offers two focus areas: higher education leadership and community college leadership. The program does not lead to licensure or certification. Students must first complete 18 credits of core coursework before enrolling in classes specific to their focus area.

The core curriculum includes three credits each in the following: boards and educational governance; ethical and political foundations of educational policy; learning in an era of technology; and national trends in assessment, data analysis, and accountability. A six-credit internship completes the core coursework credit requirements.

Degree-seekers must complete an action research capstone project prior to graduation. Students must complete 15 credits of doctoral research coursework, which begins with an introductory class in doctoral studies and annotated bibliography. The other classes include research planning and ethics, data collection and analysis, literature review, and project conclusions. Bradley University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

4. Concordia University-Irvine

The School of Education at Concordia University Irvine offers a 46-credit doctor of education program in leadership with specializations in educational administration, organizational change, and special education. The program follows a cohort model of education and takes three years to complete.

Applicants must submit a statement of intent containing 5-7 pages describing their educational and professional goals, academic and research background, and reasons for choosing the Ed.D. program. Applicants must also submit a writing sample of up to 10 pages that demonstrates their ability to integrate research and professional literature in their writing.

Students can pursue the Ed.D. as a hybrid program, which delivers courses on campus, through synchronous online video conferencing, and via self-paced learning modules. Learners can also enroll in a fully online Ed.D. program with synchronous and asynchronous components. Most courses last eight weeks. Doctoral students craft individualized learning plans with their dissertation advisor at the beginning of the program.

Concordia University Irvine is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

5. Concordia University-Saint Paul

Concordia University, St. Paul offers a 64-credit online doctor of education degree that learners can complete in three years. A cohort program, the Ed.D. consists of 17 three-credit courses and a one-week residency during the summer of a student’s second and third year of enrollment.

The curriculum includes leadership and scholarship courses in topics such as organizational resource management, solutions-based leadership, influences and assessment of public policy, and data and quantitative analysis. Students can transfer a maximum of 23 credits from a master’s or post-specialist program subject to a thorough review of the program director. The Ed.D. does not accept research methodology credits for transfer. Dissertation research and writing consists of a total of 14 credits.

Doctoral students who plan to apply for their administrative license after the program must complete a K-12 internship consisting of six credits, plus any additional courses determined by the program director. Concordia University, St. Paul is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Creighton University

Creighton University offers online doctoral programs in interdisciplinary leadership and post-professional occupational therapy. Creighton also offers hybrid programs in business administration, nursing, occupational therapy, and pharmacy.

The doctor of education in interdisciplinary leadership comprises 60 credits that full-time learners can complete in four years. Students enroll in core courses in change theory and practice, administrative and policy leadership issues, strategic planning and management, and organizational theory and behavior. Degree-seekers can take all their classes online, but they must attend an on-campus residency during their first term. The university also requires doctoral candidates to return to campus to defend their dissertation.

The post-professional doctor of occupational therapy accepts applicants with either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field. The program allows enrollees to develop advanced clinical, teaching, and practice management skills. The program meets the educational requirements for occupational therapy licensure in the United States. Creighton University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Endicott College

Endicott College offers online Ph.D. programs in nursing and applied behavior analysis. The programs follow a cohort model of education and do not require applicants to submit GRE scores. Doctoral students can transfer up to six credits toward their degree through prior learning assessment.

The Ph.D. in nursing comprises 45 credits, many of which learners can complete online. Applicants need a master’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution and a valid and unencumbered RN license. The curriculum includes coursework in research methods, approaches to nursing knowledge and theory development, and analysis and evaluation of theories impacting client phenomena.

The applied behavior analysis doctorate from Endicott’s School of Education consists of 60 credits with courses that run synchronously. Applicants need a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis and are preferably certified by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board. Endicott College is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

8. The George Washington University

The George Washington University offers online Ph.D. programs in systems engineering and nursing. The School of Engineering and Applied Science offers a doctorate in systems engineering comprising 54 credits, 24 of which consists of coursework and 30 credits for dissertation research and writing.

Students progress as a cohort for the program’s coursework portion. Courses run synchronously and cover subjects such as data analysis, discrete systems simulation, advanced systems engineering, and research methods. The school requires Ph.D. enrollees to receive a minimum 3.4 GPA to avoid being dropped from the program.

The Ph.D. in nursing comprises 57 credits. Classes run synchronously online with an on-campus orientation session during the summer before initial enrollment. Students must also participate in two weekend residencies per semester during their first two years in the program. Learners pursuing the Ph.D. in nursing receive full tuition remission and a living stipend for their first two years of enrollment.

The George Washington University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

9. Georgia College & State University

The School of Nursing at Georgia College and State University offers a 37-credit online doctor of nursing practice degree. Most students complete the program after five semesters of full-time enrollment. The program accepts part-time enrollees who typically earn the degree after eight semesters. Although an online program, the school requires doctoral candidates to attend an annual one-week onsite immersion experience.

Applicants need a master’s degree in nursing or anesthesia with a minimum 3.2 GPA and a valid RN license. They must also show completion of at least 500 supervised clinical hours at the master’s level. The curriculum includes coursework in epidemiology, evidence-based practice, informatics, and applied healthcare research.

Degree-seekers must complete an additional 540 clinical hours at the doctoral level prior to earning the degree. The program culminates with a capstone project in which students apply advanced theoretical constructs to address a challenge in their current work environment. Georgia College and State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University offers online doctoral programs in nursing and leadership studies. Students accepted to the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program with a bachelor’s degree must enroll in 78 credits, which typically takes five years to complete. Bachelor’s-trained doctoral candidates can follow a family nurse practitioner pathway or a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner pathway.

The DNP program also accepts master’s-trained nurses who only need to complete 28-34 credits to earn the degree. Although an online program, the DNP requires master’s-trained students to participate in two on-campus residencies. Most students with a master’s degree take two years to complete the program.

The doctor of philosophy in leadership studies comprises 60 credits and typically takes 4-5 years to complete. All students start the program by enrolling in four foundation classes in leadership theory, global issues and policy analysis, ethics and leadership studies, and organizational theory. The program allows students to enroll in up to 12 credits of independent study and to transfer up to 12 Ph.D.-level credits from another accredited institution. Gonzaga University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

11. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Mercy University offers online doctoral programs in nursing and educational leadership. The two-year doctor of nursing practice (DNP) comprises 39 credits (13 courses) and accepts applications from MSN-trained RNs. The curriculum includes coursework in organizational behavior and social policy, statistical analysis for evidence-based practice, healthcare ethics, and leadership as an advanced practical nurse. The DNP includes 400 hours of clinical internship and one onsite session toward the end of the program.

The online executive doctorate in educational leadership consists of 54 credits that takes learners less than three years. The program follows a cohort model of education and an accelerated course schedule. Students enroll in one class at a time, and each class lasts five or seven weeks. Learners can choose from four interest areas: leadership in pre-K to 12 schools, higher education, special education, and teaching and learning in higher education.

Gwynedd Mercy University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

12. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University offers online doctoral programs in engineering, nursing, public health, and education. Students accepted to the doctor of nursing practice program can choose from nine tracks of study, including adult-gerontological acute care nurse practitioner and pediatric primary care nurse practitioner.

The doctor of public health degree from the Bloomberg School of Public Health comprises 64 credits and accepts applications from candidates with a master’s degree in the field. Applicants must show a strong academic grasp of biostatistics and epidemiology. The program offers specializations in environmental health, implementation science, health policy and management, and health equity and social justice.

The Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at the Whiting School of Engineering does not maintain a formal course schedule for enrollees. Instead, students work closely with their advisor to develop an individual plan of study that includes courses relevant to their educational and career objectives. Based on their course of study, doctoral candidates must pass a departmental and graduate board exam. They must also write and defend their dissertation to earn the degree.

Johns Hopkins University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

13. Maryville University of Saint Louis

Maryville University offers online doctoral programs in nursing and higher education. Students can pursue both programs completely online.

MSN-trained students admitted to the online doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program typically graduate after just 20 months. Students who specialize in a nurse practitioner (NP) arena while pursuing the DNP usually graduate in 36 months. The DNP-to-NP program offers five specialization areas, including adult gerontology primary care, pediatric care, and psychiatric mental health.

The doctor of education accepts applications from master’s degree-holders who already have an initial principal license. The program follows a cohort model of education that takes learners 32 months to complete. The curriculum prepares graduates for the state superintendent licensure exam. Prior to graduation, students must complete a capstone project that demonstrates their mastery of the field and directly benefits the school district. Maryville University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. Mount Carmel College of Nursing

The online doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program at Mount Carmel College of Nursing comprises 37 credits beyond a master’s degree that takes students 18 months to complete. The DNP offers tracks in clinical practice leadership, executive healthcare leadership, and executive academic leadership.

Students must enroll in five foundation courses, including transformative leadership practices, evidence-based practice, and integrative structures of transformative practice. The program requires learners to participate in two onsite immersion experiences (4-5 days each) during the first and second semesters.

MSN-trained applicants with advanced practice certification can earn credits toward the degree through challenge exams. MSN-trained applicants without advanced practice certification may need to complete additional hours throughout the program. The program requires all applicants to hold a valid RN license. Students must complete 500 practice experience hours throughout their enrollment.

Mount Carmel College of Nursing is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

15. Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health offers online doctoral programs in nursing, education, and public health. The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program accepts bachelor’s and master’s degree-holders as well as advanced practice RNs. The BSN-to-DNP program consists of 75 credits, which includes 57 credits of coursework and 18 credits of clinical practice (1,080 contact hours). Full-time students typically complete the program after 36 months of continuous enrollment. The program accepts part-time enrollees, many of whom earn the degree in 4-5 years.

The doctoral programs in education and leadership in healthcare and in public health require applicants to hold a master’s degree in a healthcare-related field with at least a 3.0 GPA. Students pursuing either degree complete a scholarly capstone project instead of a dissertation as their culminating experience.

The curriculum for the Ed.D. in education and leadership in healthcare includes coursework in organization change and accountability; teaching, learning, and instructional methods; healthcare finance; and information technology in healthcare and education. The public health curriculum maintains a broader focus covering subjects like epidemiology, biostatistics, population health, and public health ethics.

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

16. Quinnipiac University

Quinnipiac University offers two online doctoral programs . Students can pursue a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) at the School of Nursing or a post-professional occupational therapy doctorate at the School of Health Sciences.

The DNP program comprises 30 credits and accepts applications from MSN-trained RNs. Coursework covers subjects such as epidemiology and population health, leadership and collaboration for change in healthcare, and health policy and organizational systems. Students must complete an experiential capstone project as the culminating experience of the program.

The occupational therapy doctorate consists of 32 credits that students can complete in five semesters. Although all courses are available online, the program requires enrollees to participate in an on-campus summer class for one week, and again on symposium day prior to graduation. The curriculum includes coursework in innovations and emerging issues in adult healthcare, leadership in higher education, and directed study in evidence-based practice.

Quinnipiac University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

17. Regis College

Regis College offers an online doctoral program in nursing that accepts applications from BSN- and MSN-trained students. The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program does not require applicants to submit GRE or GMAT scores. However, prospective students need an active RN license. Completing the DNP qualifies graduates to sit for certification exams from one of several certification boards such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the National League for Nursing.

The BSN-to-DNP program consists of 73-76 credits that learners can complete in 3.5 years. Students can choose from six specialization areas, including pediatrics, women’s health, and psychiatric mental health.

The MSN-to-DNP program includes four tracks for different types of students. The program accepts applications from RNs seeking their first NP specialization, doctorate-seeking NPs, RNs with a master’s in a non-nursing field (bridge program), and RNs seeking a second NP specialization. How long it takes to complete the program and the total number of credits required for the degree depend on a student’s chosen track. Most students graduate in 24-36 months.

Regis College is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

18. Regis University

Regis University offers online doctoral programs in nursing, occupational therapy, and dual programs in pharmacy and health informatics and pharmacy and health services administration. The doctor of nursing practice program comprises 31-36 credits and features two specialization areas: advanced leadership in healthcare and advanced practice registered nursing. Classes follow eight-week terms.

Regis offers the online doctoral program in occupational therapy in partnership with Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. Creighton faculty teach the online courses, while Regis faculty supervise the program’s experiential aspects, including anatomy labs, simulation center, and service learning. The program consists of 125 credits.

The dual programs lead to a doctorate in pharmacy and an MS in either health informatics or health services administration. Each dual program comprises 165 credits. Classes follow eight-week delivery schedules. Students must complete the Pharm.D. portion of the program within four years after the MS. Regis University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

19. Samford University

Samford University offers online doctoral programs in public health, education, and nursing. The doctorate in educational leadership at Orlean Beeson School of Education accepts applicants with a master’s or an education specialist degree. Master’s degree-holders complete 66 credits, while education specialist degree-holders complete 36 credits. The curriculum includes core courses in organizational dynamics, ethical issues in education, negotiation and conflict resolution, and educational policy development and analysis.

Students admitted to the doctor of nursing practice at Moffett and Sanders School of Nursing can specialize in nursing administration or advanced practice RN. Both programs require learners to complete at least 1,000 clinical hours. MSN-trained RNs can transfer some clinical hours from their master’s toward the doctorate with the approval of the program director.

The online doctoral in public health offers a concentration in health management and policy and in population health analytics and decision-making. The program welcomes full-time and part-time enrollees. Most students earn the degree after five semesters. Samford University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. The College of Saint Scholastica

The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at the University of Florida offers online Ph.D. programs in classical civilization and in Latin and Roman studies. The programs allow students to craft individual plans of study and require the completion of 60 credits beyond a master’s degree. Doctoral candidates must pass written and oral comprehensive exams and write and defend their dissertation.

UF also offers online doctoral programs in education. Students can pursue a doctor of education degree in the fields of educational leadership, higher education administration, and curriculum and instruction. The doctorate in curriculum and instruction offers specializations in educational technology and in teachers, schools, and society. The programs follow a cohort model of education.

The doctor of nursing program at UF’s College of Nursing accepts BSN- and MSN-trained nurses. The BSN-to-DNP program consists of 75-78 credits, while the MSN-to-DNP program requires 35 credits. The latter only accepts applications from advanced practice RNs with a valid APRN license. Both programs maintain minimal onsite requirements. The University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

21. University of Southern California

University of Southern California offers online doctoral programs in the fields of social work, physical therapy, and education.

USC’s Rossier School of Education offers online doctoral programs in educational leadership and in organizational change and leadership. Although students can complete coursework for either program online, the school requires doctoral candidates to attend onsite immersion experiences, which are scheduled in advance. The school also offers an online global executive doctorate specifically designed for senior education professionals seeking to shape educational policies and practice internationally.

Students accepted to USC’s doctor of social work program can pursue an accelerated track that takes seven semesters or a regular track that takes nine semesters. The program comprises 42 credits and does not require applicants to submit GRE scores with their application. The doctorate in physical therapy follows a hybrid delivery format and includes coursework in musculoskeletal anatomy, clinical exercise physiology, life span motor control, and differential diagnosis in physical therapy.

The University of Southern California is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

22. University of St Francis

Students accepted to the online doctoral program in education at the University of St. Francis can pursue a concentration in superintendent endorsement or in leadership, learning, and stewardship. The Ed.D. comprises 60 credits. Although learners can complete most coursework online, the program requires some onsite presence.

The Ed.D. in superintendent endorsement accepts applications only from practitioners holding a professional educator license with a general administrative or principal endorsement. The program prepares these candidates for district-wide leadership. Students in this concentration work with their advisors to craft an individualized plan of study that supports their specific career and educational goals.

USF also offers a 40-credit doctor of nursing practice program with an optional concentration in nurse education. The curriculum includes courses in healthcare policy, politics, and practice; diversity and social justice in a global society; healthcare finance and practice management; and professional and organizational communication.

University of St. Francis is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

23. Villanova University

Villanova University offers online doctoral programs in nursing through the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing. Students can choose to pursue a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) or a doctor of philosophy degree.

The DNP allows students to choose a full-time, part-time, or flex track, which they can complete in five, eight, or 11 consecutive semesters, respectively. DNP courses run synchronously with some on-campus components scheduled ahead of time. The program follows a cohort model of education and accepts applications only from MSN-trained advanced practice RNs with a current APRN license.

The Ph.D. program offers online coursework during the fall and spring semesters and on-campus classes during summer terms. The program comprises 51 credits and includes courses in conceptual and theoretical foundations in nursing science; advocacy, policy, and ethics in healthcare; structure and philosophy in higher education; and curriculum design in nursing education. The length of time to complete the Ph.D. varies and depends on a student’s educational background, progress in the program, and personal goals.

Villanova University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

24. Wilkes University

Wilkes University offers online doctoral programs in education and nursing. The doctorate in educational leadership follows a cohort model of education and requires students to attend only three residencies throughout their course of study. The curriculum comprises 60 post-master’s credits and offers concentrations in educational technology, curriculum and instruction, and educational leadership studies. By enrolling in 12-18 credits each year, doctoral candidates can complete the coursework portion of the program in 3-4 years and begin writing their dissertation.

Nursing practitioners can choose to get a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) or a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.). The DNP comprises 35 credits and takes two years to complete. The Ph.D. consists of 47 credits and takes three years. Both programs accept applications from MSN-trained practitioners with a valid nursing license. Students complete all coursework online. However, Ph.D. candidates must attend one two-day on-campus residency prior to graduation. The DNP program requires candidates to complete clinical hours, the total number of which depends on their educational and practice background.

Wilkes University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

25. A.T. Still University of Health Sciences

The College of Graduate Health Studies at A.T. Still University of Health Sciences offers online doctoral programs in health administration, health professions, and health sciences. The programs only accept applications from practitioners holding a master’s degree in the area of study they plan to pursue or a closely related field.

The health professions and health administration programs consist of 55 and 62 credits, respectively. The college offers both programs completely online. Students pursuing the health professions program complete a doctoral research project as their culminating activity. Doctoral candidates in the health administration program write a dissertation.

The doctoral program in health science comprises 70 post-master’s credits and offers three concentration areas: global health, fundamentals of education, and leadership and organizational behavior. The curriculum includes coursework in population health and patient-centered care; health administration, law, and ethics; risk management for health professionals; and principles of management and decision analysis. An applied research project is the degree’s culminating activity.

A.T. Still University of Health Sciences is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

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• Best Online Ph.D. In Higher Education Programs

Best Online Ph.D. In Higher Education Programs Of 2024

Updated: Nov 29, 2023, 1:34pm

Learning happens at every age. From preschool to higher education, behind every learner is an educational policymaker, researcher and leader who advocates and manages programs for academic quality and student success.

An online Ph.D. in higher education can prepare you to become one of those educational changemakers, whether you aim to instruct college students, spearhead academic research or improve the quality and operations of a school or district as a principal or superintendent. As the highest degree level in this field, a doctorate opens doors, allowing you to choose the path you see most fit for helping schools and students.

In this ranking, we explore four of the best online Ph.D.s in higher education, noting key features of each program for you to consider.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We scored four accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online Ph.D. in higher education degree programs in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience.

We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of June 2023.

We scored schools based on the following categories:

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We listed all four schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Ph.D. in Higher Education Degree Options

Should you enroll in an online ph.d. in higher education program, accreditation for an online ph.d. in higher education, how to find the right online ph.d. in higher education for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online ph.d. in higher education programs, concordia university-chicago, andrews university, liberty university, regent university.

Graduate Tuition

$753/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Located in River Forest, Illinois, Concordia University-Chicago (CUC) is a Lutheran-focused liberal arts university founded in 1864. Its Ph.D. in leadership includes a higher education specialization with fully online eight-week courses covering higher education law, leadership, societal issues and fiscal responsibility.

The program requires five research courses, including qualitative and mixed methods research. Students also complete a comprehensive written exam and three dissertation components.

CUC charges an $18 technology fee per credit, included in its tuition rate, for this program.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 67 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Institutional advancement, developing the organization’s human capital
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: No

$1,471/credit

Andrews University , based in Berrien Springs, Michigan, offers its Ph.D. in higher education administration online, with most students completing the 61-credit program in about five years. Online learning covering topics like higher education law, program evaluation and leadership dynamics is available through a blend of asynchronous and synchronous coursework with convenient evening hours for working professionals.

Although most courses are online, students must complete a global education study tour in person to get hands-on experience in cross-cultural education.

• Application Fee: $60
• Degree Credit Requirements: 61 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: College student development theory, administration of academic services
• In-Person Requirements: Yes

$595 to $650/credit

The Ph.D. in higher education administration from Liberty University (LU), a Christian university based in Lynchburg, Virginia, features three concentrations, each requiring 60 credits. Including the four-part, 15-credit dissertation, students can finish the program in as little as three years.

Part-time learners in this program pay $55 more per credit than full-time students. However, current and past military members can reduce their costs by taking advantage of LU’s discounted tuition rate of $300 per credit.

• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time, part time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Economic impact in higher education, historical perspectives of higher education
• Concentrations Available: Assessment and evaluation, educational leadership, student affairs

$800/credit

Based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Regent University offers a 100% online Ph.D. in higher education leadership and management. Incorporating Regent’s Christian values, the program includes such courses as Christian worldview for educators and the role and mission of the Christian college and university.

Although students have seven years to complete this program, it typically takes five years. Regent charges online students a $700 fee per semester for university services, so learners can decrease their overall costs by finishing within the five-year window.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Application Fee: N/A
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Data-driven decision making, role and mission of the Christian college and university

Pursuing a Ph.D. online can help working professionals strike a balance between their careers in higher education and their studies. Online Ph.D. in higher education programs typically offer flexible formats with few or no in-person requirements, allowing learners to complete coursework and dissertation tasks where and when it’s most convenient.

Cost also plays a role in choosing the right program and format. An online doctoral program could benefit learners who would otherwise need to commute long distances to and from their school, potentially saving transportation costs. Some schools charge in-state tuition rates to online learners who reside out of state to reduce their cost commitment.

Still, doctoral coursework can be rigorous. Students should consider whether they feel confident in their ability to complete intensive projects and studies without face-to-face guidance and support from instructors and peers.

Many colleges and universities seek institutional accreditation to distinguish themselves as leaders in academic quality, faculty credibility and positive student outcomes. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education recognize several institutional accrediting agencies, including the Higher Learning Commission and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Schools typically approve transfer credits only from other institutionally accredited colleges . Plus, employers and credentialing bodies may not recognize degrees from unaccredited schools.

Programmatic accreditation is reserved for specific programs and departments. A Ph.D. in higher education usually comes through a school’s education department, which may be endorsed by a programmatic accrediting agency. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation commonly accredits departments with higher education doctoral programs.

If you’ve settled on pursuing a distance education, here’s how to narrow down your options.

Consider Your Future Goals

An online Ph.D. in higher education varies among schools, so it’s important to consider your future goals to point you toward the right program.

First, determine whether a Ph.D. or an Ed.D. is the best option for you. Although similar in content, a Ph.D. in higher education typically incorporates more research-based studies and is ideal for students interested in creating educational policy or teaching at a higher education level. Meanwhile, an Ed.D. in higher education focuses more on applicable skills, such as academic leadership and program administration.

Then, think about the program’s specifics. For example, some programs have more rigid dissertation requirements and time commitments than others. Also, you might be able to complete one program entirely online, while another may require an in-person class each week.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Tuition for the higher education doctoral programs on our list averages $905 per credit. With the average program requiring 64 credits, the average total cost of an online Ph.D. in higher education reaches nearly $58,000, which is no small sum.

However, tuition rates can vary widely based on a school’s public or private status, a student’s enrollment status, school prestige and other factors. Some Ph.D. programs are “fully funded,” meaning most students receive a tuition reimbursement plus a stipend for living expenses. Learners may also participate in fellowships, through which they receive funding in exchange for their research contributions.

Consider filling out the FAFSA® to determine your eligibility for federal student loans and other aid. You might also research financial aid options at your school, like scholarships and assistantships, to help you finance your degree.

Is a Ph.D. in higher education worth it?

If you’re interested in becoming a professor, an education administrator, an academic researcher or an educational policymaker, a Ph.D. is likely worth the investment. Throughout the program, you’ll build the leadership skills necessary to help educational organizations and students succeed.

How long is a Ph.D. in higher education?

A Ph.D. in higher education can take between two and five years to complete, depending on whether you enroll part time or full time. While most coursework is usually completable in two to three years, the dissertation often takes one to three years to finish.

Is a Ph.D. worth more than a bachelor's degree?

Yes, a doctoral degree is usually worth more than a bachelor’s degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , those with doctoral degrees earn a median of $2,083 per week, while bachelor’s degree holders earn $1,432 weekly.

As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner and former educator, Amy Boyington is passionate about researching and advocating for learners of all ages. For over a decade, Amy has specialized in writing parenting and higher education content that simplifies the process of comparing schools, programs and tuition rates for prospective students and their families. Her work has been featured on several online publications, including Online MBA, Reader’s Digest and BestColleges.

Top 20 Best Colleges with Online PhD Programs

Find your degree.

A doctorate degree or Ph.D. is the highest level of academic achievement one can earn. Hundreds of US colleges and universities feature such degrees. However, finding the best online doctoral programs can be a challenge. In this article, we highlight the top 20 accredited schools where you can earn your doctorate or Ph.D. online.

We’ll discuss more about online doctoral programs and our methodology later in this post. However, let’s first take a look at the top five colleges with online doctoral programs:

Table of Contents

Why Pursue Your Doctorate Online?

Students have different and highly personal reasons for pursuing their doctorate online. Many candidates are already deeply involved in their careers and family lives. So, relocating across the country to complete their studies is simply not an option. Other Ph.D. candidates are adults who have already had the whole college experience. Some would prefer to complete their studies in peace, taking their time and focusing solely on their assignments. Others are looking for fast doctoral degrees so they can advance in their careers.

“In May 2023, I graduated with a doctorate of business administration (DBA) from Temple University through a low residency program. That is, we had three in-person weekends per semester during the first two years, plus Wednesday night classes in between those on-site classes. I view the program as a hybrid approach and I especially appreciated the online classes. I suspect the fact that I’m an introvert is why I preferred the classes that were held on Zoom. I participated more and was more at ease when we were in Zoom class sessions versus when we were sitting together in person in the classroom in Philadelphia. The program was great; I honed my scholarly research abilities and made lifelong friends.” Dr. Marcia Layton Turner, founder of the  Association of Ghostwriters

TOP 20 COLLEGES WITH ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREES

Let’s continue to explore your academic journey with confidence as we unveil the top 20 colleges offering online doctoral degrees. We’ve already talked about five of the best. But now, we’re going to highlight all 20 schools.

What are the best online online doctorate programs to pursue? That depends on your specific goals. The programs below provide unparalleled flexibility and excellence in advanced education. Whether you aspire to pursue a doctorate in education, business, or the health sciences, these esteemed institutions are paving the way for the future of online doctoral education.

#1. Florida State University

Tallahassee, Florida

School Profile

Florida State University is a public research university established in 1851. Located in Tallahassee, it comprises 16 different colleges and over 100 research centers, institutes, and labs. The college is a senior member of the State University System of Florida. It is among the largest by enrollment in the nation, with a student population of over 44,000. FSU is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity”.

U.S. News & World Report ranks FSY among the best public colleges in the country. And it is in the top 10 for National Science Foundation grant awards. Additionally, it is the number two producer of Fulbright Scholars in the nation. Students describe it as an “outstanding university” that is “steeped in tradition.” FSU features over 78 doctoral degree programs. Four of these can be completed through distance education. They include:

• Educational Leadership & Policy, EdD
• Instructional Systems & Learning Technologies, EdD
• Nursing Practice, DNP
• Nursing, PhD

Each degree features online coursework. However, depending on the program, students are required to attend various residencies and intensives throughout the year. Candidates enrolled in the online programs earn the same degree and learn from the same renowned faculty who teach on campus. 

Distance@FSU strives to help students create meaningful connections with their instructors and peers. A few ways it dies this is through real-time forums, study groups, Livestream events, and more. Additionally, online students have a wealth of resources to help them support their learning, including:

• Student Resilience Project
• Reading Writing Center-Online (RWC-Online)
• ITS Service Desk
• Counseling & Psychological Services
• Distance Library Services
• Career Center
• Encrypted cloud-based storage and backup for up to 5 TB of files
• Virtual computer lab with access to 30+ software applications

Graduate Tuition: $9,684

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

#2. Indiana University Bloomington

Bloomington, Indiana

Indiana University Online is headquartered in Bloomington, Indiana. IU is a multi-campus system with locations in Indiana and globally. The college offers over 200 online programs at all levels. And it consistently ranks as one of the top colleges for a range of degree programs. 

The University has perfected online education, even for grad students. And it offers online doctoral programs across 12 fields of study. These include:

• Art Education: Curriculum and Instruction, EdD
• Science Education: Curriculum and Instruction, EdD
• Curriculum and Instruction: Mathematics Education, EdD
• Educational Leadership,EdS
• Instructional Systems Technology, EdD
• Literacy, Culture, and Language Education, EdD
• Music Therapy, PhD
• Nursing Science, PhD
• Philanthropic Leadership, PhilD
• Public Health, Global Health Leadership, DrPH
• School Psychology, EdS

Most of the coursework for these programs can be completed entirely online. However, a handful of degrees do require short in-person residencies. You should inquire about these before enrolling to ensure you can meet any travel requirements. 

Students completing online degree programs at IU Online generally report high satisfaction ratings with their experience. Online students have the same curriculum and instructors as those attending campus. And many students remark that they have “spent substantially less” to earn their degree by enrolling online. 

Graduate Tuition: $10,033

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission 

#3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university and one of the oldest colleges in the nation. It is the flagship university of the UNC system, enrolling around 32,000 students a year. The school is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity” and is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). Students speak very highly of UNC-Chapel Hill, citing the “amazing and unparalleled experiences,” “great professors,” and overall “welcoming environment.” In fact, it’s actually challenging to find any negative comments about this beloved college. 

There are over 11,000 students pursuing graduate programs at UNC-Chapel Hill. The college has been ranked the fourth top public school for 2024 by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, in 2022, the Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings publication ranked it the number one public university in the South. 

The graduate school at USC has over 80 programs covering 160 graduate degrees. Graduate students (whether they are on-campus or online) are strongly supported, and there are plenty of opportunities for leadership, research, and innovation. There are three online doctoral degrees at USC that include:

• Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership (DrPH)

This program is offered through the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, which has been ranked the number two best public health school in the country by  U.S. News & World Report

• BSN to DNP Health Care Leadership & Administration

The BSN to DNP online program features primarily synchronous coursework for convenience.

Students will work on tailored clinical experiences and must attend some in-person immersions.

This online DNP program requires 36 hours and takes two to three years to complete. Students will need to attend one on-campus immersion each semester. However, their coursework is asynchronous, so they can complete it at their convenience.

Graduate Tuition: $10,552

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4. University of Florida

Gainesville, Florida

Founded in 1853, the University of Florida is a public land-grant research university and part of the State University System of Florida. The campus is in Gainesville, and as a whole, it has excellent online reviews. Students remark that UF is “as close to a perfect college as it gets” and has “easily been one of the best decisions they have made” regarding their education. The university operates almost 200 research centers and institutes and encompasses 16 academic colleges. Doctoral students will find no shortage of research opportunities at UF.

Let’s delve right into UF’s online doctoral programs. The University of Florida features nine online programs at the doctoral level, an amount that surpasses most other colleges on our list. The degrees include:

• Computer Science Education (Ed.D.)
• Educational Lead e rship (Ed.D.)
• Educational Technology (Ed.D.)
• Special Education (Ed.D.)
• Teachers, Schools, and Society (Ed.D.)
• Higher Education Administration (Ed.D.)
• Latin and Roman Studies (Ph.D.)
• Classical Civilization (Ph.D.)
• Nursing Practice (DNP)

As you can surmise, most of the programs revolve around education. However, the school also features an online DNP. 

Most of the online doctoral programs have some required residencies. For example, the Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Computer Science Education has three required campus-based experiences. The first is a two-day orientation in the first semester. After that, students will have some four-day summer semesters. The online coursework is completed as a cohort. Then, students will work on their dissertations with a full-time faculty mentor. These requirements are pretty standard across all of the doctoral programs. So, you will want to get all the details on your program before enrolling. 

A range of support services are provided throughout the online doctoral programs. Those seeking an online degree through distance learning can expect resources like tech support, an online library, academic coaching, and more. 

Graduate Tuition: $10,770

#5. Clemson University

Clemson, South Carolina

Clemson University is a public research university in Clemson, South Carolina. Founded in 1889, it comprises seven distinct schools and colleges. And it is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity.” Over 28,000 students are enrolled at Clemson, and close to 6,000 of them are pursuing graduate degrees.

Clemson features seven online and hybrid Ph.D. programs. Both formats give students flexible access to the course content. Most programs feature both an online or on-campus option. Online students attend live synchronous classes that allow them to join the in-person courses virtually. This gives them the opportunity to network with faculty and peers without disrupting their current employment or living situation. Programs include:

• Ph.D. Learning Sciences
• Ph.D. Literacy, Language and Culture
• Ph.D. Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design
• Ph.D. Special Education
• Ph.D.Teaching and Learning
• Ph.D. Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management
• Ph.D. Healthcare Genetics and Genomics

A few of the programs may require some in-person components. Additionally, some students may want to come to campus to take advantage of specific labs and facilities. For example, students in the Ph.D. Healthcare Genetics and Genomics programs have access to ten world-class research facilities. Some of these include:

• The School of Nursing Healthcare Genetics and Genomics Laboratory 
• The Clemson Aquatic Animal Research Laboratory 
• The Clemson University Center for Human Genetics
• Clemson University Division of Research Core Facilities
• The Clemson University Genomics and Bioinformatics Facility 

Graduate Tuition: $10,858

Accreditation: WSCUC Senior College and University Commission 

#6. Ohio State University

Columbus, Ohio

The Ohio State University is a public land-grant research university and a University System of Ohio member. Founded in 1870, it is among the ten largest US colleges by enrollment, with a student population of over 60,000. Students speak highly of OSU on social media. They remark that at Ohio State, they got the chance to “experience things they could not have imagined,” there is also a strong opinion that “every opportunity you could ever want in a college” is available at this school. That’s not surprising considering the enormous amount of clubs, organizations, events, networking opportunities, and other opportunities students have at their disposal.

Several premiere publications, including The Washington Monthly, U.S. News & World Report, Times Higher Education, and more, have nationally recognized Ohio State. Authors Howard and Matthew Greene dubbed OSU a public ivy in 2001. This designation recognizes public universities as having programs of the highest educational quality. 

Recently, professor emeritus of physics Pierre Agostini and two of his colleagues were awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics . That makes him the sixth faculty member at OSU to earn a Nobel Prize.

Ohio State features a wide range of graduate programs. However, only four of these are offered online. All are offered through the College of Nursing and include:

• Doctor of Nursing Education
• Online BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia Specialty Track
• Online BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Online Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice

These programs are taught by the same faculty as the on-campus courses. And they offer incredible flexibility while not skimping on resources. Students enrolled in the online programs receive all the support services and benefits offered across the university.

Graduate Tuition: $12,092

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

#7. Endicott College

Beverly, Massachusetts

Endicott College is a private institution in Beverly, Massachusetts, near Boston. It first opened as a two-year women’s college in 1939 but later became a coeducational school offering four-year degrees. Endicott enrolls nearly 4,000 students a year, and over 1,700 of those are graduate students. The school has been consistently recognized as a top college in the Northeast by US News & World Report. 

Endicott offers graduate programs in Education, Nursing, Business, Sport Science, Social Science, and Visual & Performing Arts. Students who wish to earn their doctorate online can choose from the following five options:

• Ph.D. in Applied Behavioral Analysis
• Ph.D. in Education with a concentration in Curriculum & Teacher Education 
• Ph.D. in Education concentration in Higher Education
• Master of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) 
• Ph.D. in Nursing

These programs are offered 100% online with both synchronous and asynchronous classes. They are highly flexible, and even the residency requirements are held virtually. With the exception of the MSN to DNP program, all doctoral applicants must have a master’s degree from an accredited college or university. Financial aid is available for graduate students. However, awards are based on enrollment level rather than financial need. The school also features interest-free payment plans.

Graduate Tuition: $13,084

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

#8. Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Liberty University is a private, non-profit Christian college renowned for its commitment to providing a comprehensive, faith-based education. Established in 1971, it is one of the largest Christian universities globally, with a student population of over 96,000. Nearly 48,000 of these are graduate students. The main campus is in Lynchburg, Virginia. However, the school has a robust online presence and offers hundreds of remote degree programs. 

At Liberty University, students can choose from over 75 online doctoral, postgraduate, and specialist degrees. Most have no residency requirements, so you can remain in your community and continue with your current career. Additionally, much of the coursework is asynchronous, so you can work on your assignments when it is convenient for you. In general, courses are all offered in an eight-week format, and there are multiple start dates per year, so you can begin working on your degree right away. Some of the most popular online doctoral programs at Liberty include:

• Counselor Education and Supervision (PhD)
• Psychology (PhD)
• Business Administration (PhD)
• Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL)
• Organization and Management (PhD)
• Communication (PhD)
• Strategic Media (PhD)
• Christian Leadership (PhD)
• Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
• Master of Theology (ThM)
• Advanced Educational Studies (PhD)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Education Specialist (EdS)
• Higher Education Administration (PhD)
• Criminal Justice (DCJ)
• Doctor of Law and Policy (DLP)
• Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)
• Public Administration (PhD)
• Public Policy (PhD)
• Health Sciences (PhD)
• Music Education (PhD)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This is just a short list of the available doctoral programs at Liberty. Most of these feature multiple specializations, allowing students to focus on their specific goals and passions. Students can access a wide range of resources, including online tutoring, a writing center, tech support, personal advising, an online library, and much more. 

Graduate Tuition: $7,893

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9. University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

The University of Arizona is a distinguished public land-grant university renowned for its commitment to academic excellence. Established in 1885, it is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities. – Very High Research Activity”. It’s a large school, enrolling over 49,000 students and offering over 150 majors. It is highly inclusive and is considered a Hispanic-Serving Institution. 

The UA is one of the nation’s top 20 public research universities. The school has total research expenditures of over $750 million a year. It is well known for its research impact, particularly in space science. The school is a NASA partner and has been at the forefront of astronomy and space science for decades. 

The university’s esteemed faculty members include accomplished scholars and industry experts dedicated to providing mentorship and guidance to students. And the school’s commitment to research and innovation is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities, research centers, and partnerships. All of these can provide graduate students with valuable opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge discoveries and advancements.

The UA features graduate programs in over 150 areas of study. Several of the school’s graduate programs can be completed through the University of Arizona Online. The online doctoral programs include:

• Educational Leadership (EDD)
• Software Engineering (PHD)
• Nursing (DNP) – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing (DNP) – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing (PHD)
• Nursing (DNP) – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing (DNP) – Exec Health Systems Leadership
• Nursing (DNP) – Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing (DNP) – General
• Nursing (DNP) – Informatics
• Nursing (DNP) – Nurse Anesthesia
• Nursing (DNP) – Nurse Anesthesiology
• Nursing (DNP) – Nurse-Midwifery

Most of the programs have some on-campus intensives. And nursing students will have on-ground practicum and clinical placements to round out their education. 

Online students at the University of Arizona have access to a range of support services. These include tutors, coaches, alumni mentors for networking and career opportunities, and more. Students have full access to all of the resources that on-campus students use. 

Graduate Tuition: $12,348

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission and WASC Senior College and University Commission

#10. University of Massachusetts-Global

Irvine, California

UMass Global is a public, non-profit University of Massachusetts System affiliate. Formerly Brandman University, the school was launched in 2021 to meet the unique needs of adult learners in Massachusetts and across the US. UMass Global enrolls nearly 9,000 online learners a year, and around 3,800 are graduate students. Headquartered in Irvine, California, the school has become a leader in online education. The school features 16 online graduate programs. Four of these are designed for doctoral students. They include:

• BSN to DNP in Family Across the Lifespan
• BSN to DNP in Psychiatric and Mental Health
• Post-Masters to DNP
• Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership

All of the doctoral programs are fully online. One significant advantage of these particular programs is that all of them can be completed in three years or less. Plus, students can complete their clinical rotations at their work or a location near where they live. Because the school caters to working adult online learners (the average age of students at UMass Global is 36), its support services are geared to this demographic. For example, students can take advantage of top-notch virtual resources, one-on-one advising, career coaching, and more. 

On social media, reviews of UMass Global are mixed. But this is largely based on the previous reputation of Brandman University, and UMass Global is still coming into its own. The school launched during the height of the pandemic, allowing many scholars to continue their education online. One important thing to remember is that the institution is backed by the stellar reputation of the University of Massachusetts system. And the flexible online learning format at UMass Global means that 91% of students can continue to work while completing their degree program. 

Graduate Tuition: $12,510

#11. Creighton University

Omaha, Nebraska

Creighton University is the largest religious university in the state of Nebraska. Founded in 1878, this private Jesuit school enrolls over 8,300 students, and about half are graduate students. Like most Jesuit colleges, Creighton aims to shape the whole person—intellectually, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. The academics are rigorous, and the school has a strong focus on service work in the community. The school has ranked in the top third of National Universities by U.S. News & World Report for 2023-2024. 

Creighton features 17 doctoral programs. Four of these are offered online and include:

• Interdisciplinary Leadership EdD 
• Occupational Therapy (Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy)
• Pharmacy (PharmD)
• Nursing Practice DNP 

Most programs have a few on-campus residency requirements. And some feature optional on-campus learning opportunities. These allow students an opportunity to bond with their cohort members. It also gives them a chance to make industry connections and expand their professional networks.

The DNP program is highly flexible and one of the most popular offerings. Students can choose to attend full-time or part-time. And they can tailor the program to their specific interests. Specializations include:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Primary and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Dual Degree)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Administration & Leadership

Creighton also features a hybrid Entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy . It was the nation’s first entry-level OTD program. Students can either attend campus in Omaha or opt for a hybrid pathway in Denver, Anchorage, or Phoenix.

Graduate Tuition: $17,496

#12. University of Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The University of Pittsburgh is a large public state-related research university, enrolling over 33,000 students. The main campus is in Pittsburgh, with several others throughout the state. Founded in 1787, it’s one of the oldest colleges in the nation. Known for its groundbreaking research, it is a leading producer of Pulitzer-prize winners, Nobel laureates, human rights pioneers, and inventors. Pitt is also a top producer of Fulbright scholars. 

The school is the setting for the world’s first polio vaccine and heart-liver transplant. Additionally, it is a member of the Association of American Universities, which comprises 64 preeminent doctorate-granting research institutions in North America. Pitt is an impressive school, to say the least. 

The University of Pittsburgh features around 100 doctoral programs. Yet, the majority of these programs must be completed on campus. However, there are two online doctoral programs. They include:

• Doctor of Clinical Science in Occupational Therapy

This is a post-professional Doctor of Clinical Science (CScD) in Occupational Therapy program. And it is delivered 100% online with no residency requirements. Students will learn advanced leadership skills and implement evidence into practice. The curriculum is highly personalized so that each student can engage in coursework tailored to their professional interests and goals.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice

Pitt’s DNP program features multiple tracks; students can choose from full-time and part-time options. While most components can be completed online, each track’s clinical and residential requirements differ. So, students will want to get all the details before enrolling in this nationally recognized program. The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing has been ranked tenth in the country by U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Nursing Grad Schools .

Pitt also features two hybrid doctoral programs. These include:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical and Translational Science
• Doctor of Physical Therapy

On-site requirements vary for these programs. Students should request more information before applying. 

Graduate Tuition: $24,962

#13. Loma Linda University

Loma Linda, California

Loma Linda University is a private research school in Loma Linda, California. This top-ranked college is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist education system. However, it is welcoming to students of all faiths and persuasions. Students at LLU are encouraged to develop their passions, connect with their spiritual selves, and become the best versions of themselves. And the compassionate faculty members are available to help them do just that. With an unprecedented student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, You will get plenty of personal mentorship to help you along your academic journey. 

This small college has an intimate atmosphere and a student population of about 4,200. Current and former students remark that LLU is big on encouraging students to make a personal commitment to their own physical health and vitality. As such, the college features many services geared toward wellness. If you are a student interested in cutting-edge diet, exercise, and health research, this might be the place for you. And if you are a doctoral student looking for a more conservative experience, LLU might be your place to land. LLU features five online and hybrid doctorate programs. They include:

• Doctor of Marital and Family Therapy
• Doctorate of Nursing Practice
• DrPH in Preventive Care
• DrPH in Health Education
• DrPH in Health Policy and Leadership

Loma Linda is a wonderful school for students interested in a lifestyle of spiritual and physical wellness. It’s not a party school. Instead, students are focused on cultivating close relationships and a sense of well-being. The LLU site states explicitly: “Experience a community built around your needs — healthy foods, wellness services, spiritual support, and more — all located in a region known for well-being and longevity.”

Graduate Tuition: $28,000

Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission

#14. The George Washington University

Washington, D.C.

The George Washington University (GWU) is a private research university in our nation’s capital. It is one of only six US universities with a congressional charter. The college has three fully integrated campuses in the D.C. area. These include the Mount Vernon Campus, the Virginia Science and Technology Campus, and the Foggy Bottom Campus. Nearly 26,000 students are in attendance, and over 14,000 are enrolled in graduate programs. 

GWU has received the highest Carnegie Classification that can be awarded for its research. And it has a host of impressive alums, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Colin Powell, Elizabeth Warren, J. Edgar Hoover, and many more. 

GWU features over 230 programs for graduate students. And several of its doctoral degrees can be completed online or in a blended format. They are taught by the same world-class instructors that teach the on-campus courses and include:

• Ph.D. in Systems Engineering 
• Doctor of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Doctor of Engineering in Engineering Management 

The DNP program at GWU features several specialties. These include:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Executive Leadership

• Nursing Practice
• Health Policy

All of the DNP specialties are presented in a hybrid format. For example, doctoral students will complete online courses. However, there are still some on-campus requirements for training and testing. 

Graduate Tuition: $33,930

#15. Vanderbilt University

Nashville, Tennessee

Vanderbilt University is a private, non-profit research university in Nashville. Founded in 1873, the school is known for its rigorous academics and is highly selective. While it is not an Ivy League school, students often describe it as “the Harvard of the South.” Vanderbilt offers graduate programs across various fields, including nursing, medicine, law, education, and more. 

Nearly 14,000 students are enrolled at the University, and over 6,500 of those are seeking advanced degrees. The school prides itself on being a “global hub for conducting scholarly research, advancing discoveries, and fueling breakthroughs across multiple disciplines.” With 85 centers and institutes covering a broad range of disciplines, Grad students will find plenty of opportunities to collaborate and participate in research projects. 

Vanderbilt offers three hybrid doctoral programs. Most of the core coursework can be completed online. However, there are some on-campus immersions and residency requirements. The degrees include:

• Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations

This program was ranked the #1Online Ed.D. in Leadership and Learning & Organizations Fortune Rankings in 2022.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Science

Student tuition for this program is fully funded. It covers up to four years of research and coursework. Additionally, students receive annual stipends.   

The DNP program features several three tracks:

Advanced Clinical Practice

Advanced Systems Practice

Those who enter the DNP program with a BSN can choose from a Family Nurse Practitioner/Emergency Nurse Practitioner or Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track. 

Graduate Tuition: $55,160

#16. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, Maryland

Johns Hopkins University is a private research university in Baltimore. Founded in 1876, it was the nation’s first research university and has been the birthplace of many medical and scientific milestones. But that is somewhat of an understatement. Johns Hopkins students have spearheaded many life-altering achievements. 

For example, JHU scholars launched the field of genetic engineering and developed cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Researchers at JHU have invented rubber gloves, the world’s first water purification system, the ramjet engine, and more. This impressive list of achievements goes on and on. The school has produced 29 Nobel Prize Winners, and many of its graduate programs are ranked among the best in the nation. 

JHU has a student population of over 31,000, and the overwhelming majority (around 25,000) are graduate students. Doctoral students are drawn to the school for many reasons. It has an outstanding reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and award-winning faculty. Johns Hopkins spends more on higher education research (over $3.1 billion) annually than any other school in America. As a result, it attracts thousands of graduate students a year.  

The University features over 50 graduate programs. And many of these can be completed online or in a blended (hybrid format). Online doctoral students at JHU can complete many of their assignments online but should still plan to fulfill some on-campus requirements. Potential students are advised to research the degree requirements before enrolling. The programs include:

• Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
• Education EdD
• Mechanical Engineering, PhD
• Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, DNP Advanced Practice Track
• Adult-Gerontological Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist, DNP Advanced Practice Track
• Adult-Gerontological Health Clinical Nurse Specialist, DNP Advanced Practice Track
• Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, DNP Advanced Practice Track
• Pediatric Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist, DNP Advanced Practice Track
• Pediatric Dual Primary/Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, DNP Advanced Practice Track
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, DNP Advanced Practice Track
• Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, DNP Advanced Practice Track
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: Executive Track
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, DNP Advanced Practice Track

Johns Hopkins University has the most impressive student-to-faculty ratio on our list. Additionally, it has the highest graduation rate, at 94%.

Graduate Tuition: $60,480

#17. Boston University

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston University is a non-sectarian private research university. The school was founded in 1839 and is a leading research institution. Alexander Graham Bell, credited with the invention of the telephone, did so in a Boston University research lab. BU was also the first university in America to grant a woman a doctoral degree.

BU features two campuses in Boston and numerous programs around the world. In fact, you’ll find BU’s faculty and students pursuing research, service, and study in over 75 countries. The college has a student population of over 36,000, and about half of them are graduate students.

The University comprises 17 schools and colleges and over 10,000 faculty and staff members. With an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, BU grad students can be assured of making meaningful connections with their instructors and mentors no matter what field of study they are involved in. 

BU features a wide range of doctoral programs. And three of the most popular ones are offered online. They include:

• Doctor of Ministry degree (DMin)

This is a three-year program combining online learning with some low-residency requirements. The focus is on transformational leadership. 

• Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education

In this program, students “seek new and better techniques to encourage students to improve as musicians and succeed as well-rounded people.”

• Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy

This program is for those who already have a professional degree in occupational therapy. Candidates will complete an 18-month course of study in which they will develop advanced knowledge through collaboration and mentorships with fellow professionals. They will learn to create innovative solutions to unmet needs in the field of OT. 

#18. University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California

The University of Southern California is a private research school in Los Angeles. Founded in 1880, it was initially affiliated with the Methodist church. However, it does not maintain that affiliation today. USC was among the first to be considered an inclusive and forward-thinking university, mandating that “no student would be denied admission because of race” nearly a century before America was integrated. Today, it maintains its strong commitment to diversity.

At USC, students benefit from world-class faculty and rigorous academics. They learn from professors who are experts in their fields. Plus, online students are treated the same as on-campus learners. All online students can access the same top-notch services offered to on-campus learners. 

There are close to 49,000 students enrolled at the University of Southern California. It is very uncommon for graduate students to make up most of the student body. Yet, over 28,000 students at USC are enrolled in graduate programs. So, let’s look at the school’s online doctoral degree programs. There are six in total, and they include:

• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
• Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership
• Global Executive Doctor of Education
• Doctor of Regulatory Science
• Doctor of Social Work

Some of these doctoral programs can be completed entirely online. Others have in-person immersions on the LA campus. Potential candidates are encouraged to research all the program details they are interested in to ensure they can meet any on-campus requirements. 

Graduate Tuition: $63,468

#19. Temple University

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Temple University is a four-year R1 public research university in Philadelphia. It is the largest college in the city, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1884. Temple offers a wide array of academic programs and is one of the country’s most prominent educators in law, medicine, pharmacy, podiatry, and dentistry. However, students remark that with so many majors, “you can choose to study literally anything.”  

Temple has a student population of over 33,000, and around 9,000 attend the graduate school. With a commitment to providing accessible and inclusive education, the college has garnered recognition for its dedication to empowering students from diverse backgrounds to achieve academic and personal success. Students at Temple benefit from a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes hands-on experience, research opportunities, and community engagement. 

The university’s faculty comprises accomplished scholars and industry experts dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment. Additionally, the school’s strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship provides students with the resources and mentorship needed to transform their ideas into impactful ventures, contributing to its reputation as a hub for innovation and creativity.

Temple offers over 50 doctoral programs across 12 schools and colleges. Two of these can be completed online, including:

• Doctor of Athletic Training

This program is designed for certified athletic trainers who want to advance their clinical decision-making skills. It features a special emphasis on concussion and mild traumatic brain injury education. Students interact with peers and instructors through live online classes, web-based activities, and more. The program is 100% online and can be completed in as little as two years. There are multiple opportunities for financial support. 

• Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (Post-Professional)

The Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) program is also offered 100% online. Students can complete the program in one year of full-time study. However, part-time options are also available. The program emphasizes extensive student collaboration and faculty mentorship. And it provides plenty of opportunities for networking.  

Graduate Tuition: $20,531

#20. Duquesne University

Duquesne University is a private Catholic college founded in 1878. It features over 85 undergraduate programs and more than 110 graduate and certificate programs across ten distinct schools. A little over 8,000 students attend this mid-sized university. Students cite small class sizes and knowledgeable professors who “take time for their students” as among the benefits of choosing Duquesne. 

Another factor frequently mentioned about Duquesne is the rigor of its academic programs. Many students say, “The curriculum can be challenging, particularly in the sciences.” However, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, receiving individualized attention from your instructors is rarely a problem. 

Students who wish to earn their doctoral degree online at Duquesne University have three options:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Online

This degree features three-year and four-year curriculum options, plus a DNP to PhD program . There are some residency requirements on campus. Additionally, students will complete a study abroad experience at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland.  

• Doctor of Philosophy in N u rsing Ethics Online

The Ph.D. program in Nursing Ethics is a 47-credit-hour program that takes four to six years to complete. The coursework can be completed online. However, candidates will need to come to campus for four residency requirements. One of these is a study abroad experience.

• Doctor of Pharmacy Online

The School of Pharmacy at Duquesne features an online Pharm.D. Program. This four-year program is designed for candidates who have already met the prerequisite course requirements from an accredited US institution. Students will complete most of their work online with limited campus residency requirements. A unique aspect of this program is that all students enrolled automatically earn a BS in Pharmacy Foundations (BSPF) simultaneously at no added cost!

Duquesne offers nearly 50 centers and institutes for research programs, cross-discipline learning, and more. Plus, the Office of Research and Innovation (ORI) supports students and faculty in engaging in innovation and research. The ORI provides technical support, networking, grant application assistance, and more, making it an excellent resource for doctoral students. 

Graduate Tuition: $25,578

Best Online Ph.D. Programs Methodology

There are many types of doctoral degrees . However, each of the online schools on this list was evaluated using several criteria. First, we searched the NCES database for all schools offering online doctoral programs. Each school is accredited, located in the US, and offers at least two online or hybrid doctoral programs. From there, we applied the following factors to determine our ranking:

Average Graduate Tuition Rate Per Academic Year

• Less than $15,000 per year = 5 Points
• Between $15,000 and $20,000 per year = 3 Points
• More than $20,000 per year = 1 Point

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

• 15:1 or less = 3 Points
• Greater than 15:1 = 1 Point

Overall Graduation Rate

• Greater than 80% = 3 Point
• 80% or Less = 1 Point

In cases where schools ranked the same number of points, preference was given to colleges with the most affordable tuition. You can view the entire ranking chart at the end of this article. Please note that no school is given preferential treatment. Each is evaluated based on the same essential criteria. 

When listing tuition rates, we use each school’s in-state graduate tuition per academic year. Your costs may vary depending on where you live and the program you choose. Bear in mind that many schools on this list offer substantial financial assistance.

Would you like to take a look at how we ranked each school? Here’s a chart for our fellow data geeks.

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The 90 Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs

Phd program rankings.

• Fully Funded PhDs in Education
• Doctor of Nursing Education
• Ph.D.: No Application Fees
• No-GRE Online Ph.D. in Psychology
• No-GRE Online Ph.D. Programs
• Fast Online Doctoral (Ph.D. and Ed.D.)
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• Doctorate in Public Policy/Administration
• Doctor of ABA
• Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
• Doctorate in Marketing
• ALL Ph.D. Degree Program Rankings

Career Guides

• Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
• Aerospace Engineering
• Behavioral Health (D.B.H.)
• Chemical Engineering (PhD CE)
• Chemistry (D.Chem.)
• Clinical Nutrition (D.C.N.)
• Speech-Language Pathology (CScD)
• Criminology (D.Crim.)
• Economics (DEc)
• Health Science (D.H.S./D.H.Sci)
• Library Science (D.L.S.)
• Molecular Biology (Phd Mol Biol)
• Occupational Safety and Health (D.O.S.H.)
• Physics (Ph.D. Physics)
• ALL PhD Career Guides

Valuable Resources

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• Burnout & Chronic Stress
• The Key to Free Grad School
• Ph.D. Guide for International and Domestic Students
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• Earning a PhD
• Write a Perfect Essay Like a PhD
• Master’s Degree As a Bridge To Ph.D.
• Self-Funding Your PhD
• Importance of Accreditation
• Online Ph.D. Support Groups
• Getting Accepted to an Online Ph.D.
• Common Fears of Ph.D. Students
• Habits of Successful People
• US Doctoral Degrees
• ALL VALUABLE RESOURCES

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why earn a Doctorate Degree?
• What are the Ph.D. Admission Requirements?
• How Much Does a Ph.D. Cost?
• How many years will it take for me to achieve my doctorate degree online?
• Do online doctorate degree programs require campus visits?
• Ph.D. vs. Doctorate
• ALL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
• Highest-Paying Doctoral Degrees
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• Struggles Only a Ph.D. Student Would Understand
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• The World’s Richest Doctors
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• Most Popular PhD Degrees
• ALL Ph.D. Highlights

Online Ph.D. programs provide degrees often earned by those who wish to enter the realm of research, leadership, or education in their chosen field.

As this distinguished degree is very impressive, you can expect to exhibit hard work and dedication beyond your imagination. Earning a Ph.D. is not for the faint of heart!

However, besides accomplishing their own personal goals, Ph.D. holders are dedicated to the betterment of our society, primarily through research and by teaching others. As you embark on this journey, rest assured your efforts will be applauded and your lasting work will be much appreciated by your peers and for generations to come.

90 of the Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs

Best online phd programs in education/educational leadership.

Embarking on an online Ph.D. or EdD in Education or Educational Leadership entails not only a love of learning but also passing on that love of learning to the next generation. An EdD in Education is designed for working professionals who not only want to teach but may want to work as a dean or principal of a school or as a college president.

A Ph.D. in Education is a theory and research-driven educational pursuit. Those with a Ph.D. in Education will often become college professors or research scholars.

Both the Ph.D. and EdD in Education are terminal degrees in the field of education. All three of the universities listed here have multiple fields of study within their online education doctoral programs. They also each have an extremely high retention rate, which means high student satisfaction, as well as a stellar reputation for online excellence.

Johns Hopkins University

The online EdD program at Johns Hopkins University is one of the best global education programs in the world. Offered by a top university, the degree is still accessible for those who are already engaged in the education world in leadership roles and as teachers.

The coursework at Johns Hopkins focuses on up-to-date research in the following specializations:

• Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education
• Urban Leadership
• Mind, Brain, and Teaching
• Instructional Design in Online Teaching and Learning
• Technology Integration in K-16 Education

University of Southern California

Ranked #11 in Best Schools of Education by U.S. News and World Report, USC offers some of the best online education degree programs. The USC Rossier School of Education boasts top education faculty and a very high satisfaction rate.

The online doctorates in education offered at the University of Southern California are:

• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
• Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership
• Global Executive Doctor of Education

University of Florida

The online educational doctorate at the University of Florida is not only one of the top online doctorates but is also one of the cheapest online doctorates in education among the three included in this list.

The College of Education at the University of Florida is ranked 2nd in the nation according to U.S. News and World Report rankings of America’s Best Online Graduate Education Programs. It has occupied the top of this list for 6 years running making it a solid choice for educational pursuits.

The online doctoral programs along with their specializations offered at the University of Florida are:

• Teachers, Schools, and Society
• Educational Technology
• Leadership in Educational Administration EdD
• EdD in Special Education
• EdD in Higher Education Administration

Best Online PhD Programs in Psychology

Those pursuing a doctorate in the field of psychology have the option of completing either a Ph.D. or a PsyD. A Ph.D. in psychology is more heavily weighted toward research and scientific inquiry. A PsyD is a better choice for those who are interested in clinical practice.

A doctorate program in psychology may have an emphasis such as addiction or family counseling. Some schools may prioritize a focus making it a better fit for a specific interest. Below are the three top schools offering online doctorates in psychology.

Oregon State University

Oregon State University offers a Ph.D. in Counseling which gives students the ability to work as supervisors, educators, and practitioners in counseling settings. Research is an essential component of the program at OSU along with adequately addressing evolving societal needs.

The Ph.D. is available to complete entirely online with the exception of two face-to-face meetings a quarter. Focus areas of the counseling degree program from Oregon State University include:

• Advanced Practice
• Counselor Supervision
• Counselor Education

National University

The Ph.D. in Psychology offered at National University is one of the cheapest online doctoral degrees in psychology. The program prepares students to advance in their profession and emphasizes learning from experience and real-life situations.

The online Ph.D. programs at National University boast a “uniquely flexible approach.” The weekly course starts to fit graduate students’ already busy schedules. Doctoral degrees in psychology offered at National are:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
• Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy
• Doctorate of Marriage and Family Therapy

Best Online PhD Programs in Nursing

There are two basic options for those pursuing a terminal degree in nursing. The Ph.D. in Nursing is a research-based degree that prepares graduates to work in nursing faculty positions, as nursing researchers or developing and exploring research methodologies.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice or DNP prepares graduates to work in health care policy, administration, or other nursing leadership opportunities. Those who hold a DNP may also find a job within academia.

When deciding between a DNP and Ph.D. in Nursing, pursuing a DNP is better for those interested in the practice of nursing whereas a Ph.D. is more suited for those who are research and methodology-oriented. These three schools are some of the very best schools to offer an online doctor of nursing practice degree.

University of Pittsburgh

The School of Nursing at the University of Pittsburgh is ranked ninth in the country by U.S. News & World Report, making it one of the top online schools at which to obtain a doctorate in nursing. The focus of the school is to provide the highest levels of nursing research and education in order to assist students in making a positive change in the nursing world.

The online Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of Pittsburgh offers multiple concentrations which are listed below.

• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Health Systems Executive Leadership
• Nurse Anesthesia
• Nurse-Midwife (On-site)
• Nurse Practitioner

Duke University

The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program at Duke University achieved the #4 ranking in 2021 DNP programs by U.S. News & World Report. Duke University offers entry for post-BSN as well as post-master’s degree students. The online format offers flexibility which allows nurses to pursue a terminal degree while still working.

The degree program focuses on giving students the skills to improve care systems, quality of care, and assess evidence and previous research. Degrees and specialties offered by Duke University School of Nursing are:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Anesthesia (Hybrid)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Executive Leadership Specialty and Certificate
• Doctor of Nursing Practice

Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University offers both a Post Master’s and Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Both degrees are offered online which is ideal for nurses who are already employed.

The Post-Master’s DNP gives nurses the ability to stay competitive within their field while the Post-Baccalaureate DNP prepares students to become nurse practitioners. Both degree programs are offered through the top-class, flexible online classes at Gonzaga University.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Post Master’s
• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Post Baccalaureate

See also: How To Write a Perfect Essay Like a PhD

Best online phd programs in history.

Obtaining a Ph.D. in history is for those who are fascinated with culture, music, sociology, religion, politics, and a broad scope of virtually everything related to humanity. Fascinated by life, those who study history are courageous people who are interested in passing on to future generations the whys and wherefores of human existence in order to give them insight into current situations.

Along with granting insight, exploring past cultures, and expanding one’s worldview, the study of history at a doctoral level prepares one to become an expert in a historical focus area. Obtaining a terminal degree in history can equip a graduate to work at a college or university, museum, government agency, or in research, publishing, and editing.

Unfortunately, there are few online doctorates in history offered in the U.S. Liberty University Online offers one of the only online Ph.D. programs in history available. Included here is also the University of Birmingham, recommended by Texas Tech University for those wishing to complete an online history Ph.D. The third listing offers an online Ph.D. related to history.

Liberty University

Though the online Ph.D. in History is one of the only degrees of its kind, it is offered by Liberty University Online, whose online programs, according to their website, are ranked in the top 1%. Liberty University is accredited and approaches the study of history from a Christian perspective.

Courses are in an 8-week format with start dates beginning every 8 weeks. Another unique aspect of Liberty’s program is its low tuition rate which has remained the same rate for 4 years. This combination of qualities makes Liberty University’s online Ph.D. in History affordable as well as high quality. Subjects studied include:

• Historiography
• Historical Professions

University of Birmingham

Located in Birmingham, England, the University of Birmingham offers online Ph.D. degrees in history. The university is the home to the Center for Byzantine, Ottoman, and Modern Greek Studies, which makes it the only research center in England to bring all of those subjects together.

Ranked among the top five departments of Classics in the UK by Times Higher Education, the University of Birmingham boasts 81% of submitted research outputs rated as either “internationally excellent” or “world-leading in terms of originality, significance and rigor.” Online PhDs offered by the University of Birmingham are:

• PhD in Classics and Ancient History
• PhD in Byzantine, Ottoman and Modern Greek Studies

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee

A history-related online Ph.D. program is the Ph.D. specialization offered by the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. The specialization is in Social Foundations of Education. The program assists students in acquiring an understanding of the social situations that affect communities and especially urban schools.

It is designed for those who wish to study schools and sociology in a historical setting, applying it to current situations in order to improve urban schools and communities. The Ph.D. specialization is offered by the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee’s Education School.

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Business

The online doctoral degree in business is widely available at many institutions. Various paths may be taken for those who have a mind and passion for business. First, is the more applied doctorate, the Doctor of Business Administration or DBA. Also available is a Ph.D. in business administration which is a more theoretical approach to business.

Those who pursue the more theoretical approach, or Ph.D. in business, will likely be teaching business or applying their theories and research to improve business strategy.

The applied doctorate or DBA lends itself more to becoming the leader of a business. Both doctorates are terminal and offer a wide range of skills and opportunities to their holders.

These three schools offer online doctorates in business and are chosen based on their quality as well as their affordability.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University offers one of the best online Doctor of Business degrees. The graduates of the program at CBU have learned to create a strong foundation of business practice based on theory, research, and application.

The program allows students to graduate in as little as three years at which time they will have also completed their dissertation. 8-week modules offer flexible start times. A unique aspect of the Doctor of Business Administration degree program at California Baptist University includes learning high ethical standards in a global business setting.

Creighton University

The Doctor of Business Administration at Creighton University offered through Creighton’s Heider College of Business, is a research degree that focuses on enhancing critical thought and analysis. A DBA from Creighton will give the skills to advance professionally, improve the skill to consult, and grant opportunities to practice or teach at a university or college.

Research at this degree program is holistic, centered around society and organizations as a whole and making a positive change within business. The Doctor of Business Administration at Creighton is a hybrid program that can be completed mostly online.

University of Maryland Global Campus

One of the top online Doctor of Business Administration degrees available, the degree program at the University of Maryland is designed for professionals who wish to enhance their abilities, level of knowledge, and research acumen. According to their website, the program emphasizes “management theory and strategic thinking, organizational leadership and change, research and innovation, and sustainability in the global business environment.”

Along with applied research and real-world analysis, classes in the Doctor of Business Administration degree program at the University of Maryland include:

• Evidence-based Research Methods
• Data Analytics in Practice
• Research as a Tool for Management Decision Making

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Accounting

The Doctor of Accounting degree can be pursued through two doctoral avenues: the Ph.D. in Business or the Doctor of Business Administration. Both of these options must be pursued at a school that offers a concentration in accounting in order to give accounting expertise.

The DBA approach to pursuing a terminal degree in accounting prepares graduates to practice accounting as CPAs, manage or direct CPA firms, or work as financial managers or auditors.

The Ph.D. in Business with a concentration in accounting is geared more toward teaching business and accounting within academia, although the holder of a Ph.D. in Business may also enjoy working in research or managing an organization.

The Doctor of Business Administration in Accounting at Liberty University is offered completely online and is one of the best DBAs available online. With a three-year average to complete, an 8-week course schedule, and a high reputation of being rated in the top 1% of online degree programs, Liberty’s DBA program offers flexibility for high-quality professionals.

The DBA program at Liberty focuses on theoretical principles put into practice. It also uniquely emphasizes ethical standards and unites integrity with efficiency within the best possible practice.

One of the top online PhDs in Accounting is offered by National University. Because the degree is a Ph.D. rather than a DBA, the focus is on research-based accounting, which applies a broad understanding of accounting to the “relationships among business activities, economic outcomes, business performance,” and even forensic analysis.

National’s online Ph.D. in Accounting program specializes in working with professors at NU to examine accounting data, analyze business transactions and statements, and relate them to the operating functions of business organizations. Graduates may feel confident in positions as accounting and auditing leaders and in academia.

George Fox University

The Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting at George Fox University is a hybrid DBA program that is completed almost entirely online. An on-campus residency is required twice each year in the beautiful state of Oregon. This format allows students to pursue their full-time employment while advancing to the top of their field.

The online DBA accounting program at George Fox requires students to complete a business core, a research core that includes a dissertation, and an education core. The education core includes either a teaching practicum or a consulting practicum. The program offers highly convenient start dates every Monday.

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Computer Science

There are two basic paths for those pursuing the highest degree in the field of computer science: the Doctor of Computer Science and the Ph.D. in Computer Science. Although both are terminal degrees in computer science, the degrees are not equivalent. The Ph.D. is a research degree that usually requires a dissertation process of around 3 years.

Because of the time required to complete the dissertation, a Ph.D. in computer science usually takes at least 4 years to complete. The Doctor of Computer Science or DCS can often be completed in as little as 3 years with only one year spent on a dissertation. These three schools offer some of the best online doctorates in computer science.

Colorado Technical University

The online degree offered at Colorado Technical University is the Doctor of Computer Science – Big Data Analytics. The focus of the program is on developing expertise and experience in structuring and interpreting data. Tools such as XML, Hadoop, and techniques such as Al and data visualization are used to teach students how to analyze large amounts of data.

The degree program can be completed in as little as 3 years with the dissertation built into the program. With multiple start dates and a convenient online curriculum, the program also offers several scholarships making it affordable as well.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science at National University is offered 100% online. The degree program “takes an applied approach to computer science theory and research.” Unique to National’s Ph.D. program is the focus on independent research rather than just writing papers based on the research of others.

The curriculum is designed to further students’ expertise through studying software engineering, data mining, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Scholarships offered for National’s online Ph.D. in Computer Science include three $20,000 scholarships and one full-time scholarship.

Columbia University

The Computer Science Doctorate degree (DES) at Columbia University’s School of Engineering is offered partially online. Available to those who have completed their master’s degree in computer science at Columbia, the degree program offers a great opportunity for those who discover their interest in the subject of computer science early.

By completing their master’s degree at Columbia, the online doctoral degree from a top university becomes available to those who would like to acquire a position and also acquire the highest possible degree in computer science. Students are able to choose a focus around which to take classes. These include robotics, artificial intelligence, computational biology, and computer graphics among others.

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Best online doctoral programs in public administration.

Those who hold a doctorate in public policy or public administration have the privilege to influence the policies of public, private, and nonprofit organizations as well as law and policy in government.

Every city requires experts in public administration in order to effectively operate. These online degree programs in public administration are available for those who have work and family responsibilities and are also pursuing higher education.

West Chester University

West Chester University has designed one of the top Doctor of Public Administration programs. The DPA allows professionals to develop skills of leadership in order to direct organizations in all sectors.

The degree is comprised of 45 credits and helps students develop competency in the areas of management, financial decision-making, policy advocacy, and performance management.

Another one of the best online doctor of public administration degrees, the DPA at California Baptist University is flexible in its start dates as well as unique in its approach. The program is oriented toward working adults who want to become leaders in public and non-profit organizations.

The online DPA can be completed in as little as three years including the dissertation. Unique focus areas of the program include criminal justice, planning, governance, policy, health management, and social service.

Liberty University’s online DPA program is streamlined to allow an average of 2.5 years to complete a degree from a highly respected online institution. The doctorate is applied in that it focuses on solving real problems, developing skills in governance, and training for leadership roles.

The degree program, administered from a Christian perspective, assists students to “develop a thorough knowledge of the legal, ethical and political environments of public administration.” Liberty University also provides an online Ph.D. in Public Policy which can be created in less than 3 years. Both degree programs are affordable online doctorates in public policy and administration.

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Economics

Like online doctorates in history, online doctorates in economics aren’t widely available yet. There are quite a few international universities that offer online doctorates in economics but here are three universities from the U.S., all of which are accredited.

Two of the schools are accredited by agencies not recognized by the United States Department of Education. However, they are recognized by the UK and many students who have graduated from these schools have developed the tools necessary to have successful careers in the field of economics.

Liberty University ranked in the top 1% of online universities, does offer one of the only online doctorates in economics. Liberty’s online Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy – Economic Policy is designed to assist students in looking to create a better future for our country. With a possible completion time of 3 years, the Ph.D. is offered 100% online and is fully accredited by the SACSCC.

Liberty’s Ph.D. in Public Policy – Economics prepares graduates to work in careers as researchers, policy analysts, social scientists, government leaders, professors, directors of education policies, and many other exciting careers that will fuel the success of our future economy.

Atlantic International University

Atlantic International University, located in Honolulu, Hawaii, offers an online Ph.D. in Economics. The degree program brings together the practical aspects of business with economic analysis. It is intended for students who are interested in pursuing careers in research and teaching in business administration or similar economic fields.

Unique to the program at AIU is the ability to specialize in the following areas:

• Economics of Growth and Development
• Public Economics
• Mathematics for Economists
• Econometrics International Trade Theory
• Microeconomic Research
• Macroeconomic Research
• Labor Economics
• Economic Theory
• Industrial Organization
• International Economics

Akamai University

Akamai University offers two options for completing a Ph.D. in Economics. One is the Doctor of Philosophy (by Coursework) in Community and Economic Development. The other is the Doctor of Philosophy (by Dissertation) in Community and Economic Development.

• This PhD at Akamai addresses the many challenges confronting the human community. The program prepares students to address the principles, development and recovery of these economic communities.
• Can be completed in as little as 2 years
• The Ph.D. in Economics by Dissertation at Akamai is for students who have completed years of research, training and coursework and are interested in specific research as a capstone to their career.
• The objective of the program is for students to complete a quality dissertation under the guidance of Akamai professors.

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Public Health

A Doctor of Public Health or DrPH is a terminal degree in the field of public health. Similar to a Ph.D., the DrPH is designed for those who are entering careers that involve teaching, research, or professional practice. The degree is often focused on interdisciplinary studies whereas the Ph.D., by contrast, is research-based and focuses on the mastery of a single topic within a public health field.

Though not many online doctorates are available in the field of public health, these three of the best DrPH degrees are offered by top universities.

University of South Florida

Ranked #104 in National Universities by U.S. News and World Report, the University of South Florida also has one of the most affordable online doctors of public health degrees available anywhere.

The degree program at USF is focused on advancing public health education and prepares graduates to practice in health departments, international agencies, and non-profit or community-based organizations among other places of work.

The unique emphasis of the degree program is “developing, implementing, and evaluating evidence-informed public health practice.” The University of South Florida’s online Doctor of Public Health is available online with 3 on-campus DrPH Institutes.

Available concentrations in this degree program are:

• Advanced Practice Leadership in Public Health
• Public Health and Clinical Laboratory Science and Practice

One of only a few online doctorates available at Johns Hopkins University, the Doctor of Public Health offered through the Bloomberg School of Public Health is one of the best DrPH degrees in the country. Ranked #10 in international universities by U.S. News and World Report, Johns Hopkins guarantees some of the best overall academic training by top faculty.

The DrPH at Johns Hopkins integrates knowledge and analytical skills to produce leaders, program managers, and communication professionals as well as focused knowledge within a specific field of public health.

Along with a specialized course of study for each student according to his or her interests, these concentrations are available for students in the DrPH at Johns Hopkins:

• Environmental Health
• Health Equity and Social Justice
• Health Policy and Management
• Implementation Science

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

One of the top online doctors of public health degrees is offered by the high-ranking University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The online DrPH program offered through the Gillings School of Global Public Health gives students health leadership skills that produce graduates who are effective public health leaders of the future.

The degree program is available to professionals who have had five years of experience, after their master’s degree, in mid or senior-level leadership positions. The Executive Doctor of Health Leadership degree program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill boasts a high satisfaction rate among graduates of the program and has proved itself as one of the best DrPH degrees available online.

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Best online doctoral programs in criminal justice.

Pursuing a doctorate in criminal justice again offers the option between the academic, research-oriented Ph.D. and the more practical and professional DCJ or Doctor of Criminal Justice degree. Criminal justice specializations offer graduate students opportunities, in either doctorate, to pursue their interest of choice.

These online options allow those working within the field of criminal justice to pursue their dreams of reaching the highest possible level of education while staying within their workplace.

Colorado Technical University provides an online Doctor of Management degree in Criminal Justice. According to the CTU website, “students work to develop…managerial skills through mentoring, action research, and practical projects.” This focus allows DCJ graduates to positively contribute to criminal justice leadership.

Graduates of the program at Colorado Technical University can pursue work as Sheriffs, Police or Private Detectives, and Intelligence Analysts among many other job opportunities. Focus areas in this program include:

• Research and Writing
• Leadership and Change Management
• Specific Concentration Discipline

California University of Pennsylvania

One of the top online doctoral programs for criminal justice is found at California University of Pennsylvania. The doctorate can be completed in 2 years of part-time work, making it one of the fastest online doctorates as well.

The Doctor of Criminal Justice at CUP is designed to offer these career benefits for criminal justice professionals:

• Strengthening analysis skills and policy evaluation
• Understanding concerns including the use of force by police and wrongful convictions
• Developing the leadership necessary to consult or be promoted

An online doctorate with no GRE requirement, the Doctor of Criminal Justice program at National University has convenient start dates and no residency requirements. National offers a one-to-one model of learning that ensures interaction with professors even from a distance.

Students learn to encounter and solve real-world problems while still developing their managerial and organizational skills. Specialties in the program are:

• Homeland Security
• White Collar Crime
• Policing/Law Enforcement

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Philosophy

Online doctorate degrees in philosophy are not widely available as of yet. Two academic institutions are included here that offer an online doctorate in philosophy. The third from the top university of Loyola offers a doctorate in bioethics, a subject closely related to philosophy.

Graduates of a Ph.D. in Philosophy show a special ability in abstract thinking skills and logic along with a love of finding the truth. Teaching philosophy or “the love of wisdom” in academic institutions is usually the vocation of choice for these highly gifted people.

Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts

An institution that is oriented toward creative thought and the arts, the Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts provides an online Ph.D. in Visual Arts, Visual Culture, and Aesthetic Consciousness. The course program consists of three academic programs:

• Topological Studies,
• and Independent Studies.

Each of the programs explores the historical relationship between ideas and art. Seminars center on the critique of Continental Philosophy.

Topological Studies cover the relation between art and ideas in their geographical origins. The last program, independent studies, consists of studying a specific subject such as Western philosophy under the instruction of an expert in that field. The program consists of 3 years of coursework followed by the completion of a dissertation.

California Institute of Integral Studies

The online Ph.D. in Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness at the California Institute of Integral Studies focuses on teaching students to understand global human conditions and needs and to be public intellectuals capable of problem-solving in an ever-changing world.

The online Ph.D. consists of 36 credits of coursework, 2 comprehensive exams, and a dissertation. Students are encouraged to participate in an annual retreat and other programs around the San Francisco Bay Area.

Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago, offering a Doctor of Bioethics, is one of the largest Jesuit institutions in the country. The Doctorate in Bioethics is one of the first of its kind available online. The degree program is designed for professionals who are seeking advanced training in bioethics to meet the growing demand at health institutions.

The degree is offered as a hybrid doctorate which combines online courses with 2-3 days of on-campus activity. Tracks of specialization within the Doctor of Bioethics at Loyola University Chicago include:

• Clinical Bioethics
• Organizational Ethics and Leadership
• Catholic Bioethics
• Research Ethics
• Public Health Ethics

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Theology

A doctorate in theology can be pursued through a ThD or a Ph.D. in Theology. The Ph.D. in theology and ThD are considered equivalent degrees. Both require a dissertation, are research-based, and have degrees in theology. The ThD, however, is focused on Christian theology and is often offered by a Seminary or Christian college, or university.

The Ph.D. in Theology is usually offered by a liberal arts institution. The following three doctorates are some of the best online doctorates in theology available, based among other things, on their high rate of retention which is correlated with a high rate of student satisfaction.

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary provides a Ph.D. program in Theology that allows pastors, chaplains, church leaders, authors, and scholars to specialize and become an expert in an area of theology. The program emphasizes biblical and non-biblical languages, research, and critical thinking.

Southwestern’s flexible access program allows students to complete their Ph.D. in Theology from anywhere in the world through live web interaction. Certain aspects of the program such as orientation, comprehensive examinations, and the dissertation defense must be performed on campus. Ph.D. Majors include:

• Biblical Studies
• Theological Studies
• Ethics and Philosophical Studies
• Pastoral Studies

Regent University

The Doctor of Philosophy in Renewal Theology offered by Regent University is conveniently located online with a two-week residency at Virginia Beach every semester. According to their website students “enhance…research and insight with this doctoral program, which will prepare [them] to contribute to the wider conversation of the theological academy from a Renewal perspective and equip emerging church leaders across the globe.”

Concentrations in the Ph.D. in Renewal Theology at Regent University are:

• Christian Theology
• Church History
• Practical Theology

Colorado Theological Seminary

The Doctor of Theology or ThD program in Christian Counseling at Colorado Theological Seminary is one of the top ThD programs in the country. The program is designed to give graduates a foundation in Biblical knowledge and relate that knowledge to counseling.

The degree program is designed for pastors and counselors to assist parishioners and other individuals. The degree program requires 40 credit hours to complete and is also one of the least expensive online ThD programs available.

Best Online Doctoral Pro grams in Communications

A Ph.D. in Communication may well be one of the most versatile and useful terminal degrees. To develop the ability to effectively communicate, whether in the most basic ways, with writing and speech, or in more advanced ways through the ever-changing modes of communication that come along with technological development, is one of the most foundational aspects of human interaction.

Researching communication processes advances knowledge in the field of communication and is vital to the success of any organization. These three of the best online PhDs in communication will assist professionals in reaching the top of their communication potential.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers a hybrid Ph.D. in Technical Communication & Rhetoric. The program is designed around mastering rhetoric, technical communication writing, and composition. Students engage with topics involving history, theory, research, genres, and the practice of technical communication. Graduates will have gained the ability to conduct independent research.

Areas emphasized by the Ph.D. in Technical Communication & Rhetoric at Texas Tech University include:

• Rhetoric, Composition and Technology
• Technical Communication
• Rhetorics of Science and Healthcare
• Technology, Culture, and Rhetoric
• Visual Rhetoric, New Media, and User-Centered Design

The Ph.D. in Communication Studies at Liberty University is offered 100% online. The program has been designed to keep up with the new and continuously changing modes of communication that our technological society introduces. Theories and methods, as well as strategies of communication, are kept up-to-date in Liberty’s program.

The Ph.D. is also focused on research and theory giving graduates a deeper understanding and knowledge of communications. Graduates go on to become researchers, college professors, or entrepreneurs and can be successful in a myriad of fields and business opportunities.

Designed to assist students in becoming better communicators and scholars in communication, the Ph.D. in Communication program at Regent College is one of the most affordable doctorates available from a private university. The program is based on interdisciplinary training in teaching, scholarly writing, and research.

Communication studies are explored on these foundations through a Christian worldview. Graduates are prepared to become successful teachers, writers, speakers, and leaders of thought across various business settings. The Ph.D. in Communication at Regent is offered completely online with the exception of a one-week summer residency.

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Management

Most often used in the business world, the doctorate of management is for those who would like to learn how to:

• research business and management methods,
• analyze the experiences that are a natural part of management roles,
• compare and contrast various aspects of managing
• as well as become capable of leading an organization or groups within an organization toward success and harmony of effort.

A doctorate in management can be pursued through a D.M. or doctor of management degree, a Ph.D. with a focus in management, or very commonly a DBA, also with a specialized focus in management. The three doctorates listed below are some of the best online doctorates in management available.

The Doctor of Business Administration with a focus on management offered by George Fox University is a hybrid program requiring two in-person sessions in Newberg, Oregon each year. The program is geared toward business professionals who may want to transition from their current work into becoming professors or management consultants.

Besides academic or professional advancement, the degree program offers students the opportunity to be enriched by a deeper knowledge of leadership. The online DBA in Management at George Fox is taught by the college’s faculty members and staff who make George Fox a university that is nationally ranked in the top 300.

University of Missouri – St. Louis

The University of Missouri – St. Louis, ranked #97 nationally by U.S. News and World Report offers one of the best online Doctor of Business Administration degree programs. The DBA allows research concentration in any area of business including management. A cohort program, the DBA does require monthly visits to campus but all coursework is available online.

According to their website, the University of Missouri – St. Louis is in the top 2% of business schools worldwide. The school also boasts a high success rate with over 73% of students continuing education or finding a job within 6 months of graduation.

Regent University’s online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership is a research degree that prepares graduates to enter the top tier of management opportunities. According to their website, Regent’s Ph.D. assists students to “analyze the impact of prevailing world social, cultural, religious and political conditions and trends on leadership theory and practice.”

Taught from a Christian worldview the Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Regent University also offers the following concentrations:

• Ecclesial Leadership
• Entrepreneurial Leadership
• Human Resource Development
• Individualized Studies
• Organizational Leadership

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Political Science

A doctoral degree in political science instructs recipients in subjects involving political and social situations that affect individual countries and how they relate throughout the world.

Skills in analytical thinking, data interpretation, and problem-solving create professionals in political science who are ready to tackle and provide solutions for political issues. A political scientist may work for the government, public relations, post-secondary schools, or as an analyst or researcher.

Currently, pursuing an online doctorate in the subject of political science can only occur through international institutions or regional universities which may still require regional accreditation. However, these options offer credible doctorates in the field of political science.

World Executive Education Institute

The online Doctor of International Political Economy, offered at the World Executive Education Institute, gives individuals the chance to learn more about the inner workings of the global workplace.

The degree teaches critical thinking skills as well as an understanding of various cultures. It also focuses on granting research skills and communication ability. The online Doctor of International Political Economy prepares graduates for positions in either public, nonprofit or private sectors that are working in international affairs.

The World Executive Education Institute is accredited by The European Centre of Independent Certification in E-Learning.

Euclid University

Euclid University is an intergovernmental institution that, according to its website, “functions under an intergovernmental mandate to deliver programs of higher education that conform to international standards and that are fully documented.”

Euclid’s online Ph.D. in Diplomacy and International Affairs is a practical doctoral program that specializes in a truly global and intergovernmental vision. The program is not centralized around one country but reflects a global approach to diplomacy and international affairs.

It is one of the least expensive doctorates in political science, being subsidized by scholarship opportunities, and also requires no residency.

Selinus University of Science and Literature

The third political science doctorate on this list is an international degree offered through Selinus University of Science and Literature in Bologna, Italy. Accredited by the World Council for Regular and Distance Education, Selinus University follows an international schedule of learning that is not semester-based but rather assists students to develop independent research culminating in a final thesis that must be completed in 24 months.

Concentration availabilities include:

• Middle East
• The Far East
• East-West International Relations
• Political Theory
• Political Science
• Social Welfare
• Environmental Policies
• Political Sociology
• Cross-Cultural Social Perspectives
• Industrialized Countries Economy
• Global Political Economy
• Third World and Developing Nations
• World Politics and Globalization
• Philosophy of Ethics and Law

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Public Policy

Similar to a doctoral degree in public policy is the doctoral program in public administration. A public administration degree focuses more on managing personnel, agendas, and schedules. Studying topics like financial management would fit more within a public administration degree.

A degree in public policy, on the other hand, concentrates more on analyzing and interpreting data, as well as implementing policies and budgets. Because there is a great deal of overlap between the degree programs, the following online doctorates will involve the study of both public policy and public administration.

Valdosta State University

The online Doctor of Public Administration degree from Valdosta State University is a practice-based degree that offers a variety of focus areas including those within public policy.

Designed for professionals who want to advance in government, non-government or non-profit careers, the DPA from Valdosta concentrates on skills such as leadership, communication, management, and problem-solving.

One of the top online Doctor of Public Administration degrees, the DPA from West Chester University was created to meet the needs of professionals wishing to advance in the practice of public policy and administration.

Course focus areas center around developing competency in the areas of strategic management, public sector economic and financial decision-making, and policy advocacy and leadership. Concentration courses in the program are selected from the departments of:

• Public Policy & Administration,
• Criminal Justice,
• Geography and Planning,
• and Graduate Social Work

National University’s online Doctor of Public Administration degree program prepares professionals for positions as managers of compliance, regulatory affairs, social and community service, logistics, and transportation, as well as preparing them to be chief executives in public organizations.

The unique focuses of the program include:

• public policy analysis,
• critical thinking and applied quantitative reasoning,
• and qualitative analysis.

Best Online Doctoral Programs in Sociology

Sociology is basically the study of human interaction. Human interaction involves social relationships within small groups and larger groups in cities, countries, and even international affairs.

The study of social interaction can include the subjects of history, economics, social work, anthropology, psychology, and many other specific areas in which people interact. Those interested in pursuing the study of sociology on the highest levels have many options to pursue depending on their area of interest.

Online doctorates in sociology are not as easily available as they likely will be in the future, but these three doctorates from universities ranked in the top 100 by U.S. News and World Report give great options for launching a successful career as a doctor of sociology.

University of Kentucky

The online Doctorate of Social Work from the University of Kentucky is designed for practitioners in social work to become experts in their field. It is a demanding, high-quality program that combines a study of complex contemporary social situations with advanced experience in specialized populations.

Courses in the doctorate are taught online at the pace of each student. The flexibility of the courses allows students to advance through the program at their own pace. An exception to these asynchronous classes is one residency week each summer.

Concentrations available include:

• Administrative Leadership
• Clinical Social Work
• Military Behavioral Health

The University of Southern California offers an online Doctorate of Social Work through the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. The online DSW offers professionals practical experience in solving social challenges that impact marginalized or disadvantaged populations.

Students in the program become practitioners/scholars. The doctorate is designed to promote the discipline of a scholar with the methodological tools of a successful practitioner.

University of Pennsylvania

One of the top-rated national universities, the University of Pennsylvania provides an online Doctorate in Social Work for working professionals. The format of the doctorate boasts “a highly interactive, relational, accessible and convenient format.”

Students complete the coursework simultaneously with the dissertation usually earning the degree in around 3 years without interrupting their careers. The Doctorate in Social Work at the University of Pennsylvania grants specific knowledge in an area related to social work practice chosen by the student.

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Best online doctoral programs in nutrition.

Dietitians or experts in nutrition have studied which nutrients humans need to thrive and how to regulate a diet successfully. Doctors of nutrition can help those with medical conditions, allergies, or other special dietary needs to successfully accommodate their diets to produce positive results.

Dietitians are healthcare professionals who are trained and licensed in the field of nutrition. A doctorate of nutrition can be pursued through a Ph.D. (research-based) or a DCN (doctor of clinical nutrition). These online options allow working professionals to conveniently achieve a terminal degree in nutrition.

Rutgers University

Designed for registered dietitian nutritionists, the online Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, according to the Rutgers University website, was the first Advanced Practice Clinical Doctorate in the United States.

The program is focused on advancing the pursuit of clinical practice in nutrition by providing expert skills to its doctoral students. Other focus areas include critical thinking and scientific aptitude.

University of North Florida

The University of North Florida offers one of the best online Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition degree programs. According to their website, graduates of the program “gain expertise and skills in chronic disease prevention, clinical treatment, cultural competency, critical thinking, public policy, and outcomes research.”

Learning how to treat chronic disease as well as implementing dietary prevention and intervention will assist graduates to be experts in the field of nutrition.

Saybrook University

Saybrook University, a school founded to integrate human learning experiences, offers a fully online Ph.D. in Integrative and Functional Nutrition. The program looks to assist students and graduates in further scientific research in the field of nutrition.

The degree program begins with an evidence-based foundation and builds upon this basis with knowledge of biochemistry in order to allow professionals to accurately assess nutritional needs.

Unique to the doctoral program at Saybrook University is the holistic approach of evaluating physiological, social, environmental, and psychological science while pursuing dietetic inquiry.

Best Online PhD Programs in Organizational Leadership

Online Ph.D. programs in Organizational Leadership are designed for people wanting to move into top-level management positions. The top online Ph.D. programs commonly focus on business management, but holders of the Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership also work in a variety of fields.

In addition to business management, Organizational leadership skills include:

• collaboration, among many others.

The University of Southern California offers a top online EdD program in Organizational Change and Leadership. This online doctorate is designed to be completed in three or four years.

For those with a master’s degree, this online doctorate requires 43 credits. Graduate students without a master’s degree must complete 60 credits to graduate. This top online doctorate focuses on the process of:

• workplace learning,
• developmental strategies for workplace learning,
• and organization system creation.

Umass Global

UMass Global’s top online doctorate in Organizational Leadership (EdD) is one of the shortest online doctorates in the field. This online doctorate can be completed in only three years, including a dissertation.

To speed up the process of earning this degree and make it a more interactive process, local cohorts provide face-to-face contact with peers and university faculty to assist dissertation preparation and research from the outset of the program.

Graduates from this degree program earn an interdisciplinary degree open to a great number of careers. Graduates work in:

• business, education,
• government,
• for-profits and non-profits institutions.

Northwest Nazarene University

Northwest Nazarene University is the shortest online doctoral program among the top online doctorates (Ph.D./EdD) in Organizational Leadership. This fully online doctorate can be completed in just over two years. What makes this online doctorate stand out is that both a Ph.D. and an EdD track are available, depending upon the student’s needs and goals.

This program’s special focus on education organizational leadership is another feature of Northwest Nazarene’s online doctorate that set it apart from other programs. The program follows a cohort schedule and is one of the cheapest online Ph.D.

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Best online phd programs in humanities.

If you are interested in virtually everything, a degree in Humanities might be just the educational path you should take. Like its cognates human and humane , the Humanities study several features of human society and culture. These include:

• religious and cultural customs,
• technology, and its uses,
• cross-cultural relations,
• literature, and many other aspects of human life.

A doctorate in Humanities from one of these top online Ph.D. programs in Humanities will provide you with the most advanced level of knowledge and research in the many fields of the Humanities.

Graduates with a degree in Humanities are prepared for a surprisingly wide range of careers, from business to law, research and teaching to social work and political action, and many, many other fields.

Graduates with a doctorate in Humanities often go on to work in government, education, social work, and law. They also go on to pursue degrees in different fields based on the strong foundation that they have gained in their Humanities studies.

Salve Regina University

The online Ph.D. in Humanities Salve Regina University offers is one of the shortest online doctoral programs in Humanities. This online Ph.D. program requires only forty-two credits, and coursework is designed to be completed in two years.

Over the two years of coursework, students engage in four, seven-day residencies along with the rest of their academic cohort. The human-technology relationship forms the central focus of this degree program.

Students chose a particular topic of interest early in the degree program, which they continue to explore in the light of the university curriculum and vision.

Faulkner University

Faulkner University’s online Ph.D. in Humanities is fully online, unlike others that require short residencies. This online Ph.D. program is specifically designed for working professionals, looking to complement their previous education and improve their employee experience.

Low tuition makes this top Ph.D. program also one of the cheapest online Ph.D.s in the field of Humanities. Up to six post-master’s course credits can be transferred into the degree program. The entire online Ph.D. in Humanities is designed to be completed in three to five years.

University of Memphis Global

This online Doctor of Liberal Studies is offered by the University of Memphis College of Professional & Liberal Studies. This degree is designed for graduate students and professionals looking to explore topics of focus in an interdisciplinary manner.

Students, with the help of their academic advisors, design their own “Coordinated Study grid,” which indicates what courses will be included in their doctoral program (33 credits). Beyond this, students complete twenty credits in core requirements. The degree is completed through a doctoral dissertation or a capstone project.

Best Online PhD Programs in English

Pursuing a doctorate in English can lead down many paths. Three important fields of English doctoral studies are English Language Education (EdD); English Literature (Ph.D.); English Communication and Rhetoric (Ph.D.). Naturally, not all top online Ph.D. programs will map directly onto these three categories, and within each program, there will be a great deal of overlap across common areas.

The top online PhDs in English we have selected provide a full range of career path possibilities, open to employment in:

• cultural studies,
• history, consultation,
• communications,
• public relations,
• technical writing, and many others.

Indiana University

Indiana University’s top online doctorate (EdD) in English specializes in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education. As an online education doctorate, it is designed for literacy and language practitioners to deal with twenty-first-century issues that touch upon literature education, criticism, literary genres and cultures, and the global impact of the English language and literature in its reception.

This top online doctorate is one of the shortest doctoral programs online in English. Following a cohort schedule, the degree program requires sixty credit hours and a dissertation. However, up to eighteen credits, outside of the master’s degree, can be transferred.

Graduates from Indiana University’s online EdD in English go on to work as:

• English teachers,
• ESL/EFL teachers,
• Literacy directors,
• Language educators,
• Reading educators,
• Technical writers,
• and editors.

Old Dominion University

The top online Ph.D. in English that Old Dominion University offers features a complex interface between modern research and statistical technologies with the classical study of language, literature, and communication. Classes are delivered, with a strong interdisciplinary methodology, in a synchronous format.

The program is designed to allow students to construct their own specialized courses of study and apply technology to research. Graduates with a Ph.D. through Old Dominion’s online doctorate in English degree program typically have gone on to work as:

• Post-Secondary English and Literature instructors,
• and Public Relations.

The online Ph.D. from Texas Tech University’s English Department in Technical Communication & Rhetoric is a diverse program designed to prepare graduates for positions in academia in five general areas.

Emphasizing both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, this cohort-based program focuses upon the:

• Rhetoric, Composition, and Technology;
• Technical Communication;
• Rhetorics of Science and Healthcare;
• Technology, Culture, and Rhetoric;
• Visual Rhetoric, New Media, and User-Centered Design.

These areas of study address the art of persuasive communication across virtually every area of human life and activity. Unlike other top online Ph.D. programs in English, Texas Tech’s online Ph.D. is one of the online Ph.D. programs with no GRE requirement.

Best Online PhD Programs in Special Education

Teachers in the field of Special Education work with those who have mental, emotional, physical, or learning disabilities. A Ph.D. in Special Education prepares educators for careers as teachers, administrators, curriculum, and program design, among many other areas related to special education.

Earning a doctorate in special education will provide special education practitioners with greater knowledge and skill in the field of special education that will improve their performance and enrich their experience as well as open up higher-level positions of influence and responsibility.

Special Education practitioners work in extremely diverse contexts, in a great number of economic, cultural, and geographical settings. Because of the massive diversity of this field and the broad spectrum of special needs, Ph.D. programs will offer specialized courses of study that will best prepare their students for the specific requirements of the careers they will be entering.

Drexel University

Drexel University offers a fully online doctorate (EdD), in Educational Leadership and Management with a concentration in Special Education Leadership. The program, designed to be completed in three to five years, equips education leaders to manage the social, legal, technological, and educational challenges and complexities facing modern educators and educational institutions.

Accepted applicants join a cohort. The structure of the coursework is tailored to part-time students. All degree requirements are completed online, and there are zero on-site obligations.

Liberty University’s top online doctorate in Special Education combines the convenience and flexibility of online learning with the opportunity to engage in needed hands-on practice. Graduates from Liberty’s online doctorate receive a credential accredited by the NCATE through CAEP.

As a terminal degree from one of the top online doctoral programs, Liberty’s online doctorate in Special Education will prepare special education practitioners to advance in their current positions or to move into positions of management.

This degree does not require a dissertation as an EdD, and its fifty-four credits along with a capstone project takes an average of three years to complete.

Hampton U Online

Hampton U Online is the only top online Ph.D. program on this list that actually offers a Ph.D.! This sixty-six credit-hour program in Educational Management offers a specialization in Special Education.

Hampton U is unique because is one of the shortest doctoral programs online in Special Education. Its accelerated format allows the degree to be completed in just 2.5 years! Hampton University online Ph.D. program in Special Education is also one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in Special Education.

Best Online PhD Programs in Information Science

Information Science deals with the ins and outs of information or data. This means that information scientists work in classifying, organizing, storing, retrieving, exchanging, protecting, and transferring information. Information Science is indispensable in modern society.

Governments, businesses, schools, military and intelligence organizations, and many other organizations and institutions make constant use of information technology.

The Ph.D. in Information Science is designed to provide current practitioners who want to move into higher positions, such as management, or who want to move into teaching and research, the additional knowledge and skills needed to make a change.

University at Buffalo: Department of Information Science

The University at Buffalo offers a top online Ph.D. program in Information Science. This degree program is quite intense, requiring 72 credits and averaging four to five years to finish. This online Ph.D. program gives special focus to equipping its students with the knowledge and skills needed to move into research positions.

Most often graduates from the University at Buffalo go on to take jobs as:

• Professors of Information Science,
• researchers at for-profit and non-profit institutions,
• and senior managers of large public and university libraries.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas offers a Ph.D. in Information Science that emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach. This top online Ph.D. program offers both fully online and blended formats of course delivery. This provides students with a great deal of flexibility.

UNT’s Ph.D. in Information Science boasts excellent research facilities, including on-site and online library resources. This top online Ph.D. seeks to prepare Information Scientists who have a clear vision of the centrality of information and information technology ready to advance Information Science research and manage major information repositories.

San José State University

San José State University’s Ph.D. in Information Science allows its students to set out on the right path at the very beginning of their doctoral studies. This is because their field of research and their research topic is given a focus from the outset of the program.

This program is also designed to allow students to earn their doctorate in Information Science from a top online Ph.D. program on a part-time basis without disrupting their lives. Up to eight years can be taken to complete the program.

The program follows a cohort model and monthly online meetings are required. Faculty mentor students throughout the duration of the program.

Best Online PhD Programs in Counseling

Counselors play very important roles in personal and social well-being. As a subdiscipline of psychology, counseling addresses concerns stemming from emotional reactions, social, school, and work pressures, as well as physical health relations to mental health.

Because this field is extremely broad and its clients amazingly diverse, counselors need not only general training in Counseling Psychology but also very specialized training. Ph.D. programs in Counseling provide the highest level of counseling education with a specific focus on a particular area of counseling.

Oregon State University Ecampus

Oregon State University’s top online Ph.D. in Counseling is designed to create advanced practitioners, clinical supervisors, and educators. Graduates will be ready to work in either clinical or academic settings or both. OSU Ecampus’s degree program is accredited by the CACREP.

Applicants must possess a master’s degree in the field. Classes follow a cohort schedule and are offered online. The program requires two onsite visits per quarter. Graduates from this program have come from across the United States. This online Ph.D. in Counseling requires three to five years to complete.

Liberty University Online Programs

Liberty University’s top online Ph.D. program in Counseling is CACREP accredited and requires on average four years to finish. Liberty’s top online Ph.D. program specializes in Counselor Education and Supervision. It is designed to create counseling educators able to equip their students in bringing counseling psychology theory to bear upon real-life clinical practice.

This degree, one of the shortest doctoral programs online, manifests Liberty University’s Evangelical Christian identity. Throughout degree coursework, there is an attempt to integrate biblical principles with the best current counseling theory and practice.

Graduates from Liberty University’s outstanding online Ph.D. in Counseling go on to work both as counselors and counseling educators, working in educational, clinical, and research capacities.

Regent University’s online Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies requires a very short online doctorate that requires only 51 credits. Four features form the core of Regent’s top online Ph.D. in Counseling. These are:

• solid research and methodology,
• accurate statistics,
• psychometrics,
• and Christian leadership skills and principles.

Regent provides its students with a very broad array of concentration options with competitive tuition rates. Graduates from Regent have gone on to careers in academics, research, Mental Health Leadership, Guidance direction, and nonprofit administration.

Using A Master’s Degree As a Bridge Toward Your Ph.D.

Best online doctoral programs in social work.

Social Work involves helping others to identify problems in their daily lives, helping these same persons and communities address and solve these problems as well as formulate effective ways to cope with such difficulties.

Options for doctoral studies in social work vary greatly, depending on one’s career goals. Some will focus on social work education (EdD). Others will be more oriented to research in the field of social work (Ph.D.). Finally, many others will be drawn toward clinical practice (DSW). The three top online doctorates in Social Work focus on clinical practice.

USC’s top-ranked online doctorate of Social Work is designed to train experienced Social Work practitioners to apply sound principles to concrete situations in developing real-life solutions to social challenges. This top online doctorate is an accelerated program and can be completed in just two years.

Offered through the prestigious Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, USC’s online DSW creates the ideal social work scholar-practitioner, ready to achieve wide-ranging solutions among the most vulnerable and marginalized sectors of society.

The University of Pennsylvania claims to have been the institution of higher to offer a doctorate in Clinical Social Work. Their top online Doctorate in Clinical Social Work continues the outstanding social work practice tradition of Penn while continuing to innovate in terms of both degree content and mode of instruction delivery. Both knowledge and practice are emphasized in this top online doctorate.

Students are trained in gathering, assessing, and applying empirically grounded evidence to real-time clinical contexts. Coursework and the doctoral dissertation are pursued simultaneously so that a long delay between the completion of coursework and the completion of the dissertation can be avoided. Penn’s online DSW is fast, too, designed to be finished in just three years.

University of St. Thomas

The University of St. Thomas’s online DSW stands out as a program designed to produce university-level clinical social work educators. Graduates from this degree program gain the knowledge and skills to both teach and practice clinical social work.

This top online doctoral program follows a cohort schedule. Four key focuses characterize the University of St. Thomas online DSW. These are:

• transformative teachings,
• identity as a scholar-practitioner,
• publication of research,
• the pursuit of social justice through service and leadership.

The degree program takes three years to complete, using synchronous and asynchronous instruction. Each year one on-campus residency is required.

Best Online PhD Programs in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Industrial-Organizational psychologists, through an applied science methodology, assist organizations to improve or correct problems in the workplace as well as to increase worker productivity. In Industrial-Organizational Psychology, scientist-practitioners apply the insights of psychology practice and principles.

Career opportunities are flourishing in this field, and rapid job growth is expected for the next several years. Earning an online doctorate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology will open pathways moving to positions such as:

• human resources manager,
• training and development manager,
• and, industrial-organizational manager.

If you are looking for an outstanding online Ph.D. program in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Liberty University’s online Ph.D. in Psychology-Industrial/Organizational Psychology is a great choice.

Eight-week courses make it easier to fit required classes into your schedule. Different starting times throughout the year make combining life and study more manageable. Liberty’s top online Ph.D. program requires sixty credit hours to complete. Up to fifteen credits can be transferred, and the entire program takes, on average, three years to finish.

Touro University

Touro University’s top online Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Human and Organizational Psychology provides science practitioners to further perfect their knowledge and skills in the field. Graduates will be able to formulate organizational strategies, using the latest theory, technology, and practice advances.

Touro’s online doctorate is one of the cheapest online programs. Touro’s is an online doctorate with GRE requirements, making admission more accessible.

Best Online PhD Programs in Educational Psychology

Educational Psychologists research and then apply knowledge of the process of learning in order to better understand how people acquire and preserve new data.

The field is extremely diverse. Educational psychology, in addition to the question of how new information is gained, also looks at learning abilities, as well as, the roles that culture, social context, modes of instruction, emotions, and cognitive processes affect learning.

This field is an applied science. Demand for these highly-trained experts is on the rise. Earning an online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with the needed specializations can prepare one for top positions in:

• Educational Technology,
• Instructional Design,
• Special Education,
• Curriculum Development,
• Organizational Learning,
• Gifted Learners.

University of Georgia Online Learning

The University of Georgia’s online EdS is unique among online doctorates in offering a specialization in Gifted and Creative Education. This top online doctorate is offered through the prestigious Mary Frances Early College of Education, which boasts an international reputation for excellence in psychology education.

This online doctorate is very affordable, and it can be finished fast, requiring only thirty-one credits. Graduates from the University of Georgia’s top online doctorate in Educational Psychology typically go on to work as:

• college/university professors,
• school system coordinators,
• state department coordinators of education,
• and educational consultants.

Michigan State University

Michigan State University’s top online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology adds an additional focus on Educational Technology. This innovative program combines the best in educational psychology theory and practices with the needed knowledge of the best technologies that aid successful learning in rapidly changing educational contexts.

This program has some onsite requirements, which makes it technically a hybrid program. This might make the program less accessible to some. However, some outstanding scholarship and fellowship opportunities are available to top-qualifying students. Transfer of credits is considered on a case-by-case basis.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s top online doctorate in Educational Psychology and Technology is designed with the working professional in mind. Taking only three years to complete as a part-time student, this top online doctorate is one of the shortest doctoral programs online.

No GRE is required for admission. Graduates from this outstanding online doctorate will possess advanced knowledge of the impact of technology on learning, the place of technology in education, as well as, strategies for continuously integrating educational models with new technologies.

Foolproof Ways to Calm Your Nerves Before the Big Test

Best online phd programs in international relations.

With a Ph.D. in International Relations, you will have the needed expertise to move into top positions in the field. Interdisciplinary focus characterizes International Relations. Experts evaluate and advise about international policies and programs in very diverse fields such as politics, law, and economics.

This means that a practitioner or scholar of international relations will possess both a broad knowledge base and highly specialized knowledge of a particular area of international relations.

Liberty University offers a doctorate in international relations that focuses on economics. Liberty’s top online DBA in International Business will provide the knowledge and credentials needed to meet the demands of the global financial market.

Requiring sixty credits, this degree program is fully online and is designed to be completed in three years. As with all of Liberty’s degree programs, a strong evangelical Christian outlook is to be found throughout the curriculum.

Salve Regina’s online Ph.D. in International Relations prides itself on its innovative thinking and approach. Focus is given to each of the world’s regions, and then the special focus turns to the particular interest of the student-researcher’s choice.

This top online Ph.D. can be completed in four years, including the dissertation. The program is fully online with a rolling admission schedule that provides for flexibility and minimal disruption of social and career responsibilities.

Euclid University offers one of the top online Ph.D. in Diplomacy and International Affairs. What sets Euclid apart is that it is an international governmental organization that carries a university mandate. Special areas of concentration in this online Ph.D. are:

• Regional diplomatic affairs,
• Small state/island issues,
• Interethnic relations,
• International treaty law, development, NGOs,
• and nation-specific studies.

The program is completely online and alumni have gone on to work as ambassadors, ministers, counselors, and other positions.

5 Common Fears of Ph.D. Students and How To Overcome Them

Best doctoral programs in anthropology.

Anthropologists study the patterns of human social behavior, cultural development, language, religion, mythology, and many other areas. As a field of scientific research, anthropology employs an interdisciplinary approach to its subjects of inquiry. Particular areas of anthropology often emphasize different skills and approaches more than others, such as

• Archaeology

Earning a Ph.D. in Anthropology will prepare a person for research, both in libraries and in the field, as well as, teaching and publishing. Unfortunately, there do not seem to be any online options for pursuing a Ph.D. In lieu of an online Ph.D., three outstanding traditional doctorates are presented.

With its international reputation, Columbia University offers a Ph.D. or D.Phil in anthropology through its Department of Anthropology at Barnard College. Columbia offers outstanding research resources as well as fellowships and scholarships.

Graduates from Columbia’s doctorate in anthropology specialize in one of the following areas:

• socio-cultural anthropology,
• archaeology,
• or biological anthropology.

Harvard University

Harvard University’s reputation needs no introduction. The Department of Anthropology offers a world-class Ph.D. that by provides an all-inclusive education in method and theory. Ph.D. students at Harvard specialize in:

• Archaeology,
• Social Anthropology,
• or Medical Anthropology.

Duke University’s Ph.D. in anthropology is uncommon in that it does not require a prior master’s degree or undergraduate degree in anthropology. Duke places a great emphasis on a Student’s Portfolio and interdisciplinary engagement with members of other faculties and disciplines.

Finally, in addition to its great academic curriculum and faculty, Duke helps make sure graduates successfully transition into their careers, which shows through the program’s very high post-graduation rate of employment.

• The Importance of Accreditation and Online Ph.D. Programs
• The Fastest Online Doctoral (Ph.D. and Ed.D.) Degree Programs
• Earning a PhD: Can Higher Education Goals Lead to a Higher Salary?

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Push your learning past a master's with an online doctoral program.

Colorado State University's online doctoral programs are taught by renowned faculty, known both for their and industry practice. Your accredited doctorate will be awarded without denoting the online delivery format. All students earn a CSU degree, regardless of how they take courses.

Systems Engineering Ph.D. The online Ph.D. in systems engineering prepares students to work with multi-disciplinary teams and methods to solve complex problems in any industry. The online format offers the advantage of synchronous or asynchronous delivery, allowing you the flexibility to study when and where it works best for your situation.

Doctor of Engineering in Systems Engineering This program is suited for both practicing engineers and professionals who desire to transition into a systems engineering career from a related discipline. Study online and on campus to earn your doctorate in engineering.

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CSU offers graduate degree programs and course instruction provided to students in classrooms off campus, during a short on-campus residency, and/or in combination with online learning. The amount of time that students are required to be in a physical classroom varies, so it is important to check each graduate program or course webpage for detailed information.

Higher Education Leadership Ph.D. (Online with classroom component) CSU's Ph.D. in higher education leadership provides the opportunity to study online and also to connect with your professors and cohort in person during two short visits to campus. Become a more accomplished leader with the practical knowledge needed to advance your administrative leadership career in higher education.

Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change Ph.D. (Denver) The OLPC Ph.D. develops skills and competencies in students who seek to improve organizational effectiveness, enhance decision-making skills, and develop analysis and research expertise. Designed for working executives, researchers, academics, and professionals, classes meet on Saturdays at CSU Extended Campus - Denver.

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Top 20 Best Online PhD Programs in 2024

A doctorate carries great prestige, helps you secure a high-paying job, and opens career advancement opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 1.5% of PhD holders are unemployed , the lowest proportion of any group of qualified professionals.

However, a PhD is a huge commitment – these programs usually last 3-4 years and can even stretch up to seven years. Delaying your career and juggling family commitments for this amount of time is a big ask. Online doctoral programs, especially the best online PhD programs ,  give you a high degree of flexibility, helping you to overcome these obstacles.

Here are the top 20 best online PhD programs. We’ve ranked the universities based on their reputation, faculty, and the quality of their teaching, as well as the flexibility of their online programs.                                   

Table of Contents

Top 20 Best Online PhD Programs

1. University of Florida

• Graduation rate: 89%
• Acceptance rate: 31%
• Enrollment rate: 47%
• Retention rate:  97%
• Tuition:  $6380 (in-state students), $28,658 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: GRE score, minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.4 or graduate GPA of 3.5, letters of recommendation, application portfolio,

Founded in 1853 and located in Gainesville, the University of Florida is one of the best public research schools in the USA. It offers online degrees for PhD study in diverse fields, such as classical civilization, education, audiology, educational technology, and educational leadership.

The institution is known for its celebrated Doctorate of  Education  degree and Doctorate of  Nursing Practice  certification, which allow professionals to upgrade their skills and knowledge in their fields. The university carries accreditations from prestigious bodies like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

2. George Washington University

• Graduation rate: 85%
• Acceptance rate:  43%
• Retention rate: 93%
• Enrollment rate: 26%
• Tuition:  $31,770
• Application requirements: Academic records, personal statement, letters of recommendation, GRE scores

George Washington University was established in 1821. Located in Washington, D.C., it is one of the most renowned universities in the region and offers a range of PhD programs online without any in-class attendance requirements, mainly in the engineering  and nursing disciplines. One of the university’s most prominent doctoral degrees is in Systems Engineering , which covers a comprehensive approach to designing and managing large engineering systems.  

3. Texas Tech University

• Graduation rate: 63%
• Acceptance rate: 70%
• Retention rate: 85%
• Enrollment rate: 36%
• Tuition: $6,788 (in-state students), $14,968 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements:  Academic transcripts, program materials

Founded in 1923, Texas Tech University offers online doctoral programs in a range of fields, such as education, engineering, agriculture, and communication. Some prominent remote PhD online programs are its Doctorate of Education ( Agricultural Education ), Doctorate of Education ( Higher Education ), PhD in Technical Communication and Rhetoric , and PhD in Systems and Engineering Management .

The school’s agricultural education degree notably follows a cohort model involving mainly virtual interaction but also on-campus sessions. The university delivers other courses fully online.

4. Georgia Southern University

• Graduation rate:  54%
• Acceptance rate: 91%
• Retention rate:  78%
• Enrollment rate:  34%
• Tuition: $4,986 (in-state students), $19,890 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements:  Minimum GPA of 3.0, entry exam

This public university, located in Statesboro, Georgia, was founded in 1906 and is considered one of the best business management schools in the country. Its primary online doctoral program is the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) PhD degree. While a major part of this course can be done online, campus sessions every fall are a compulsory part of the program.

5. University of the Cumberlands

• Graduation rate: 40%
• Acceptance rate: 81%
• Retention rate: 62%
• Enrollment rate:  33%
• Tuition: $9,875
• Application requirements:  Academic transcript, master’s GPA of 3.5, TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students

Founded in 1889, The University of the Cumberlands is located in Kentucky. Though the university is best known for its Information Technology courses, its online PhD program is in the field of education. Their Doctor of Education is aimed to help students enhance their leadership and management skills in the education sector. Students can complete this affordable  program entirely online without any attendance on campus.

6. Iowa State University

• Graduation rate: 75%
• Acceptance rate: 88%
• Retention rate:  87%
• Tuition:  $9,758 (in-state students), $24,720 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: Program of study, oral examination

This public research university was founded in 1856 and is located in Ames, Iowa. With 33,000 students, it’s one of the region’s largest universities. Iowa State offers two PhD online programs: a PhD in Hospitality Management , and a PhD in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design.

None of Iowa State Univesity’s online doctoral programs are entirely online. Each course requires students to attend up to three weeks of classes on-campus for two consecutive summers.

7. University of Alabama

• Graduation rate: 72%
• Acceptance rate: 80%
• Retention rate:  88%
• Tuition: $11,940 (in-state students), $32,300 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: Academic transcripts, GRE scores

The University of Alabama was established in 1820 and is one of the most prestigious institutions in the state. It offers online doctoral programs in the fields of aerospace engineering, nursing, and education. Its online PhD programs involve some on-campus sessions to complete the course of study.

The University of Alabama’s PhD program in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics  is designed for engineering professionals with at least five years of experience. It allows professionals to enhance their knowledge and become leaders in the field of aerospace engineering.

8. University of North Dakota

• Graduation rate:  61%
• Acceptance rate: 87%
• Retention rate: 80%
• Enrollment rate: 33%
• Tuition:  $10,951 (in-state students), $15,570 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: Minimum GPA of 2.75, TOEFL/IELTS scores for international students

The University of North Dakota was founded in 1883 and is known as one of the most affordable institutions for online PhD programs. It offers top online PhD programs in various engineering disciplines, including Energy Engineering, Environment Engineering, Aerospace Sciences, and Electrical Engineering , as well as nursing .

Its courses have the flexibility to be completed entirely online, or as a hybrid course with some in-person sessions. The university also allows you to transfer up to 30 credits from your master’s degree for certain courses.

9. Regent University

• Graduation rate: 61%
• Acceptance rate:  50%
• Retention rate: 76%
• Tuition: $19,680
• Application requirements: Academic transcripts

Regent University was named the best faith-based institution by Intelligent.com . It is a Christian University located in Virginia, and its programs have a strong religious foundation. Though it offers courses across 150 diverse disciplines, its online PhD programs are mainly in the fields of education and counseling. Its Doctor of Ministry online program helps chaplains develop leadership skills, while its Doctor of Education in Christian Education  helps students develop knowledge and skills to manage Christian educational institutions.

10. Appalachian State University

• Graduation rate: 73%
• Enrollment rate:  14%
• Tuition : $4,839 (in-state students), $18,271 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: Academic transcripts, application form

Appalachian State University, located in Boone, North Carolina, is one of the best-known institutions in the country for online doctoral programs.

Its flagship online doctoral degree is the Doctor of Educational Leadership , a specialized course that aims to give students a practical sense of leadership, administration, and research in education. The course is primarily online but also requires some campus visits to Boone.

11. Johns Hopkins University

• Graduation rate:  94%
• Acceptance rate:  11%
• Enrollment rate:  72%
• Tuition: $57,010
• Application requirements: Master’s degree certificate, minimum GPA of 3.0

Johns Hopkins University is a celebrated institution and leader in online education. It offers an online doctoral program in education , which allows students to to specialize in areas like technology in education, counseling, and studies of the brain.

12. Duquesne University

• Graduation rate:  79%
• Acceptance rate:  77%
• Retention rate: 84%
• Enrollment rate: 24%
• Tuition: $24,048
• Application requirements:  Academic transcripts, personal statement, writing sample

Duquesne University in Pittsburgh is a Catholic institution that offers online degrees for PhD students in education and nursing. These include a Doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision  and  School Psychology , Ed.D. in Educational Technology and Educational Leadership , and Psy. D. in School Psychology.

In the nursing field, the institution offers a DNP-to-PhD program that allows professionals to continue research on their DNP project while earning a PhD.

13. The University of Louisiana at Monroe

• Graduation rate: 57%
• Acceptance rate: 78%
• Retention rate:  71%
• Tuition:  $9,551 (in-state students), $21,651 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: Master’s degree, minimum GPA of 2.75, GRE score of at least 292

The University of Louisiana in Monroe offers a range of online programs, including two doctorates: a PhD in Marriage & Family Therapy  and an Ed. D. in Curriculum and Instruction . The institution was named the best for PhDs in therapy by Intelligent.com .

14. University of Missouri

• Acceptance rate:  82%
• Enrollment rate: 17%
• Tuition:  $9,478 (in-state students), $25,946 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: Academic transcripts, research proposal

The University of Missouri offers online doctorate programs in various education specialties. Their most prominent online programs are a PhD in  Art Education , PhD in Architectural Studies , and Ed. D. in Education Leadership.  These programs are highly beneficial for museum directors, art-house managers, professors, and university leaders. The institution also has an online doctorate program in Nursing Practice.

15. Liberty University

• Graduation rate: 54%
• Retention rate: 82%
• Tuition: $24,870
• Application requirements: Master’s GPA of at least 3.0, TOEFL assessment for international applicants

Liberty University is one of the largest Christian universities in the world. Besides religious studies, it also offers online doctoral programs in a range of fields like education and business. Their DBA programs  offer many specializations, including international business and the Six Sigma  concepts, while their Ed. D. online programs are mainly based on traumatology , special education , and curriculum & instruction.

16. Indiana State University

• Graduation rate: 41%
• Acceptance rate:  92%
• Retention rate:  62%
• Enrollment rate:  22%
• Tuition:  $9,732 (in-state students), $21,160 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: Academic transcripts, GRE/GMAT scores

Indiana State University is one of the USA’s premier state schools and offers online doctorates in various fields such as nursing, athletics, and education. These include a Doctorate of Athletic Training , Doctorate of Nursing Practice , and an online PhD program in Education Administration  with three different specializations.

17. Mississippi State University

• Graduation rate:  64%
• Acceptance rate:  80%
• Enrollment rate: 25%
• Tuition:  $9,398 (in-state students), $25,444 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements: Academic achievements, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation

Mississippi State University is one of the few universities that provide a range of online doctoral programs in engineering. Their PhD programs are mainly in the fields of Industrial Systems & Engineering , Electrical & Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering,   Civil Engineering , and  Computational Engineering . It also offers an online doctoral program in Community College Leadership.

18. University of Colorado, Denver

• Graduation rate: 44%
• Acceptance rate:  66%
• Retention rate: 72%
• Tuition: $42,745
• Application requirements: Baccalaureate or master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0

The University of Colorado in Denver offers online doctoral programs in nursing , pharmacy , and education . Its courses are designed to help professionals develop strong leadership skills, especially in nursing.

19. New Mexico State University

• Graduation rate: 51%
• Acceptance rate: 63%
• Retention rate:  74%
• Tuition: $8,408 (in-state students), $26,735 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements:  Undergraduate or master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE scores

One of the best universities in New Mexico, this institution offers online PhD programs in education and nursing. Students can complete PhDs in  Nursing , Educational Leadership , and Curriculum & Instruction  entirely online.

20. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

• Graduation rate : 91%
• Acceptance rate: 25%
• Retention rate: 97%
• Enrollment rate: 19%
• Tuition: Tuition: $9,028 (in-state students), $36,891 (out-of-state students)
• Application requirements:  Academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, statement of purpose

The University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill offers a unique online doctorate program in Physical Therapy. This program allows therapists to continue their work while simultaneously upgrading their knowledge and gaining an advanced degree.

The Most Popular Types of Doctoral Degrees

Some of the most popular doctoral degrees in 2022 include:

• PhD in Accounting
• PhD in Business Administration
• PhD in Clinical Psychology
• PhD in Computer Science
• PhD in Economics
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• PhD in Finance
• PhD in Mathematics
• PhD in Nursing Practice
• PhD in Political Science
• PhD in Public Administration

Applying to a Doctoral Degree Program

Every program has processes and requirements, so check with the admissions office before preparing your application. They’ll also tell you how to submit your application and any special things to consider.

Typically, you’ll need to submit:

• Application form
• Academic transcripts from previous studies
• Your academic resume
• Personal statement and/or research proposal
• Letters of reference

Some universities might even require an in-person interview . Always do your research and get organized early to give you plenty of time to create a strong application.

What to Consider When Choosing an Online PhD Program

Here are the key points to consider when choosing the best doctorate programs online.

Online doctoral programs typically cost less overall than their on-campus alternatives. Even if the tuition is the same, you won’t need to cover other expenses like transportation and accommodations.

Consider everything you’ll need to spend to complete the course, including extra fees. Compare the extra cost of more expensive courses from prestigious institutions with future earning potential and also keep financial aid options in mind, including fully funded doctorate programs .

Related Reading: Cheapest Online PhD Programs

Most online PhD courses take 4-7 years to complete, though you may be able to extend this to up to 10 years part-time. You may also be allowed to transfer credits from your master’s course, helping you to complete the program faster.

Related Reading: Top 10 Best 1-Year PhD Programs Online

Flexibility

Even when you choose from the best online doctorate programs, make sure the structure suits your lifestyle and commitments. For example, if you want to learn at your own pace, opt for a program with asynchronous classes.

Not all online doctoral programs are conducted entirely online. Some courses require some amount of in-person attendance. Keep this in mind — and if you’ll need to be on campus, look for somewhere close to where you live.

Wrapping Up

When considering different online PhD programs, think about the best fit for you academically, professionally, and personally.

Some factors to keep in mind are the level of flexibility, location, duration, and cost, as well as the graduation and acceptance  rate.

Applying for grad school ? Check out our complete guide about grad school requirements !

Online PhD Programs FAQs

Are online phd programs respected.

The best online PhDs are valuable, well-regarded qualifications, just like their on-campus counterparts. As long as you study at an accredited university, future employers will respect your online PhD.

How Long are Online PhD Programs?

Most online PhD programs take between 3-7 years to complete. However, you can complete some accelerated online doctoral programs in as little as a year.

How Much Does an Online PhD Program Cost?         

Although tuition varies widely depending on the institution, the best online PhD programs can cost around $20,000, including tuition and fees.

How Demanding is a PhD?

A PhD is an advanced degree that is often seen as the highest qualification in any discipline. They are relatively-demanding courses that require you to demonstrate an expert level of knowledge on a certain subject, as well as other advanced skills such as critical analysis, innovative thinking, and excellent communication skills. In the same way, doctoral programs online require the same level of dedication, and you could say they need even more discipline as you’ll be studying remotely.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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EdD vs PhD: Which One is Right For You?

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Doctor of Education : Doctorate Degree in Education

Johns Hopkins’ newly redesigned, global online Doctor of Education is at the forefront of education doctoral programs with the most innovative, challenging, and student-centered program of its kind.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the program continues to lead with the “EdD 2.0” offering, which is ideal for the busy education practitioner within any professional context. Our program recognizes that learning is both lifelong and occurs outside of formal schooling.

The vision of the Johns Hopkins EdD program is to prepare education-practitioners across the country and around the world to think critically about problems within their education environment and develop the insights and capacity to lead positive, sustained change.

Questions? Please reach out and we’ll be in touch soon.

Upcoming admissions events.

Have questions about our degree programs, the application, or financial aid and costs? Join us for an inside look at a graduate experience defined by innovation and driven by evidence-based research. Learn more about your area of interest or career path, meet some of our faculty, and connect to the Johns Hopkins School of Education community. Check out our admissions events and register for a virtual information session today.

Doctor of Education Info Session

Core Faculty

Yolanda abel, edd.

Associate Professor

Affiliation

Advanced Studies in Education

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education

Camille Bryant, PhD

Joshua travis brown, phd.

Assistant Professor

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics, Postsecondary Education, Social Context of Education

Marcia Davis, PhD

Associate Professor (Research) Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of Schools Director of Research, Baltimore Education Research Consortium

Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership

Learning & Instruction, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Christine Eith, PhD

Interim Department Chair, Advanced Studies in Education Assistant Professor

Keri M. Guilbault, EdD

Associate Professor Interim Director, Doctor of Education Program Faculty Lead, Gifted Education Programs

Counseling & Educational Studies

Gifted Education, Learning & Instruction

Ranjini Mahinda JohnBull, PhD

Learning & Instruction, Mind, Brain, & Teaching

Olivia Marcucci, PhD

Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Social Context of Education

James Diamond, PhD

Educational Technology, Learning & Instruction

E. Juliana Pare-Blagoev, EdD

Eric rice, phd.

Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Laura Flores Shaw, EdD

Assistant Professor Faculty Lead, Doctor of Education

Learning & Instruction

Henry M. Smith, EdD

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics

Program Overview

Exceptional education-practitioners will engage with an internationally renowned faculty to cultivate and practice curiosity, critical discourse, and perspective taking in a unique and rigorous course of study using the lenses of social justice, systems thinking, appropriate research methods, and empirical inquiry.

Coursework includes the latest research on the social determinants of education; mind, brain, and teaching; entrepreneurship; data and measurement; and technology. The redesigned program allows our doctoral students to customize their program by expanding their choice of electives so that they may focus more deeply on their professional interests that align with their problem of practice. Our online EdD prepares education practitioners to be transformational leaders within their professional settings.

The vision of the Johns Hopkins EdD program is to impact complex educational problems across the globe by preparing education practitioners to think critically and systemically about problems within their professional settings and develop deep understanding and insights to lead positive, sustained change within those settings.Our graduates create new areas of research, promote distribution and utilization of research findings in professional practice, and contribute to wider public discourse and policy.

Areas of Interest

The EdD program includes areas of interest. Applicants can indicate one or more areas of interest they think are related to a problem of practice and would like to explore. Current areas of interest are:

Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education

• Learning Design and Technology
• Neurodiversity and Neuroeducation

Urban Leadership

*Courses and course sequences are subject to change.

Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education offers a unique opportunity for school and other educational organization leaders in both public and private educational environments. Students develop their knowledge, skills, and dispositions as they engage in leading efforts to build new venture opportunities in varied educational organizations. Through multidisciplinary lenses, educational leaders promote innovation in the paradigms, strategies, values and culture in school systems, social entrepreneurial ventures, and education companies. Each of the courses offers an opportunity to explore leadership theoretical frameworks, identify a Problem of Practice, and create a plan of action, through analysis and synthesis of presentations, readings, and discussion of the current state of multiple educational environments and the visions and challenges for the future.

Available Courses:

• Entrepreneurship in Education
• Talent Management and Organizational Finance for Entrepreneurial Leaders
• Data Driven Decision Making
• Partnerships and Educational Organizations

Mind, Brain, and Teaching

Mind, Brain, and Teaching is designed for educators interested in exploring research from cognitive theories and neurosciences and its potential to inform the education field. Courses promote integration of diverse disciplines that investigate human learning and development. This area of interest builds upon basic and applied research from the fields of cognitive science, psychology and brain sciences, neurology, neuroscience, and education. It provides educators with knowledge of how emerging research in the learning sciences can inform teaching and learning. Students gain the knowledge and skills to interpret basic and applied research and apply relevant findings to educational practices and policies. This area of interest is designed to support the development of knowledge, insights, and competencies among students with two different levels of prior knowledge in the learning sciences: those who have had limited formal exposure to the learning sciences, and those who have a master’s degree or master’s certificate in the learning sciences.

• Fundamentals of Cognitive Development
• Neurobiology of Learning Differences
• Cognitive Processes of Literacy and Numeracy
• Special Topics in Brain Sciences

Cities are usually characterized by diverse populations with rich communities made up of many different races, classes, languages, and nationalities, and this dynamism is a chief strength of urban areas. However, urban schools typically serve populations characterized by high concentrations of poverty and therefore face difficult choices about how to allocate scarce resources. Urban Leadership is designed for educational professionals interested in exploring this dual nature of urban schools through a deep understanding of a Problem of Practice based in their unique context of professional practice. This area of interest prepares educational leaders to work in urban environments through a focus on topics such as building a strength-based understanding of the complexities of urban communities, engaging the latest research on urban educational programs, developing strategies for program improvement, and building partnerships with families, communities, and other organizations.

• Approaches to Urban Education
• Individuals in Urban Context
• Organizations and Institutions
• Partnerships and Community Organizing

Graduates from our EdD program work in diverse areas, including executive roles in educational organizations and start-ups, leadership in K-12 school districts and systems, consultancy in specialized education fields, and more.

• Administrator
• Superintendent
• Instructional Designer
• Chief Learning Officer

100% Online

Continue your full-time career and apply what you learn in real time as you earn your degree 100% online.

Legal Disclosure

State-specific information for online students.

Students should be aware of additional state-specific information for online programs . Johns Hopkins University is a member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate , which is the knowledge forum on the EdD. It has a membership of over 100 schools of education in the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand working collaboratively to improve professional preparation in education at the highest level.

Ph.D. in Computer Science

Gain vital expertise to lead and innovate with the help of invaluable "practice experience" in a fast-paced, real-world environment.

Through critical and logical thinking, you’ll gain the essential knowledge and experience needed to become highly proficient in the use of today’s leading computing platforms and techniques.

Why earn a Ph.D. in computer science?

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Scientists and engineers in every industry rely on high-performance technology and large data sets, requiring experts that can help harness the latest sophisticated computing power to solve real-world problems.

With this graduate program, you'll:

• Get essential "practice experience" to help solve real-world problems and challenges through computational technology
• Develop the knowledge and skills that will prepare you to lead or support research in any technical career that relies on computer science.
• Develop your logic and critical-thinking skills to help solve today's most pressing scientific and engineering challenges.
• Choose from computation clusters focused on specialized computing system or methods, and application clusters for exposure to specific scientific disciplines.
• Work with practitioners in a variety of disciplines served by computer science .

On-Campus or Online Ph.D. in Computer Science

Benefit from strong departmental proficiencies in artificial intelligence, compiler design, database, networks, operating systems, graphics, simulation, software engineering, and theoretical computer science.

Shape the future of transportation. UND’s Transportation Technology Research Initiative is using autonomous systems to develop and maintain a modern transportation system.

Advance your technology skills with a curriculum that encourages a formal, abstract, theoretical and practical approach to the study of computer science.

Gain access to on-campus computer power: two computer labs, a set of diverse servers and a high-performance computing (HPC) system.  The supercomputer at UND runs on the HPE Apollo 6500 Gen10 system, purpose-built for HPC and a leading platform for deep learning. 

UND is a leader in big data expertise. We are the lead institution in a multi-university project for digital agriculture, funded by the National Science Foundation . And we  co-lead another NSF project to determine industry and academic computational needs in the Midwest.

Study at a Carnegie Doctoral Research Institution ranked #151 by the NSF. Students are an integral part of UND research.

What can I do with a Ph.D. in computer science?

Anticipated job growth for computer and information research scientists through 2032

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Median annual salary for computer and information research scientists, 2023

Graduates of the Computer Science Ph.D. program have dynamic career paths with titles such as:  

• Software engineer and developer
• Computational scientist
• Data science engineer
• Research scientists (technology companies and universities)

Because technology systems are so essential today, UND graduates can expect career opportunities across a range of industries. A small sampling of top industries needing advanced scientific computing skills include:

• Atmospheric science
• Bioinformatics
• Communications
• Engineering and science
• High tech (hardware)
• Renewable energy
• Scientific and medical research (private and university-level)
• Software engineering and design

Ph.D. in Computer Science Courses

CSCI 515. Data Engineering and Management. 3 Credits.

This course studies theoretical and applied research issues related to data engineering, management, and science. Topics will reflect state-of-the-art and state-of-the-practice activities in the field. The course focuses on well-defined theoretical results and empirical studies that have potential impact on data acquisition, analysis, indexing, management, mining, retrieval, and storage. Prerequisite: CSCI 513 . S, even years.

CSCI 543. Machine Learning. 3 Credits.

An introductory course in machine learning for data science. Topics include the learning algorithms of a Bayesian network, neural network, parametric/non-parametric methods, kernel machine, support-vector machine, etc. for regression, classification, clustering, dimensionality reduction, etc. Prerequisite: CSCI 365 or CSCI 384 . F, odd years.

CSCI 567. Secure Software Engineering. 3 Credits.

This course covers software engineering principles and techniques used in the development life-cycle of cyber secure systems. Topics covered include, the characteristics of secure software, the role of security in the development life-cycle, designing secure software, and best-practices in secure programming and testing. Study includes review of industrial standards for secure software system engineering. Prerequisite: EE 601 , EE 602 , and admission to the MS Cyber Security Program. SS.

CSCI 554. Applications in AI/Computational Intelligence. 3 Credits.

A continuous study of the computational paradigms of Soft Computing in the field of Computational Intelligence. The topics include the applications of the various soft computing techniques in Computational Intelligence as well as more evolutionary algorithms in Swarm Intelligence. Prerequisite: CSCI 544 . F, even years.

CSCI 555. Computer Networks. 3 Credits.

A study of new and developing network architectures and communication protocols. Broadband technologies will be considered including BISDN, ATM networks, and other high-speed networks. Prerequisite: CSCI 327 .

CSCI 557. Computer Forensics. 3 Credits.

An overview of the techniques to detect and assess the level of penetration of a security breach. Topics include forensic science in the cyber domain, laws and ethics of forensic activities, digital evidence, methods of forensic investigation, and forensic procedures in a variety of operating systems and network configurations. Prerequisite: EE 602 , or approval of the department, and admission to the MS program in Cyber Security. S.

Online Computer Science Ph.D.

best online graduate programs

best online college in North Dakota

Intelligent

UND's online Ph.D. in Computer Science is fully online. You never have to come to campus. You'll take a combination of synchronous and asynchronous online computer science courses. 

Affordable Online Colleges

UND is one of the most affordable online colleges in the region. For this program, we offer the same online tuition rates regardless of your legal residency. Compare and you’ll see UND is lower cost than similar four-year doctoral universities.

Top-Tier Online Computer Science Ph.D.

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs. No matter how you customize your online experience, you’ll get the same top-quality education as any other on campus student.

• Same degree:  All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) . Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
• Same classes: You’ll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time and take the same classes as a student on campus.
• Real interaction:  You can ask questions, get feedback and regularly connect with your professors, peers and professionals in the field.
• Your own academic advisor:  As an invaluable go-to, they’re focused on you, your personal success and your future career.
• Free online tutoring:  We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
• Unlimited academic coaching:  Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
• Full online access: Dig into virtual research at UND's libraries. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services and more.
• 24/7 technical support:  UND provides free computer, email and other technical support for all online students.
• Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you’ll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

Best Online College

Our high alumni salaries and job placement rates, with affordable online tuition rates make UND a best-value university for online education. UND's breadth of online programs rivals all other nonprofit universities in the Upper Midwest making UND one of the best online schools in the region.

UND ranks among the best online colleges in the nation for:

• Affordability
• Student satisfaction (retention rate)
• Academic quality (4-year graduate rate)
• Student outcomes (20-year return on investment per Payscale.com)

Leaders in Computer Science

As a leader of Big Data, UND's goal is to make things more efficient, more effective and safer for North Dakotans.

Check out the faculty you'll work with at UND or discover additional education opportunities.

• School of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science
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Online PhD in Business Administration Conduct Research in the World of Business

Degree Options

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Become a Leader in the World of Business with Liberty’s PhD in Business Administration Online

Are you a business professional looking to take your career to the next level? With Liberty University’s 100% online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration, you can strengthen your management skills and learn how to develop research-oriented solutions to complex business problems. The knowledge you gain throughout this program can help equip you to handle various challenges in the field. Additionally, this degree can help prepare you to teach at the college level and train up the next generation of business leaders.

This doctoral business administration program covers several core topics in the field – such as strategy formulation, marketing, and human resource management – while also allowing you to select a specialization in an area that interests you. By pursuing a specialization, you can tailor your degree to match your unique career goals and further hone your expertise to meet the demands of the business world.

We’re excited to partner with you as you take this important next step in your professional journey. Apply today and prepare for exciting new opportunities with an online doctorate in business administration from Liberty!

What Will You Study i n Our PhD in Business Administration Online Program?

This doctorate in business administration online is broken down into 4 main parts: core business administration courses, specialization classes, research courses, and a dissertation. Within the core courses, you can learn how to strategically allocate financial resources, oversee supply chains, market for competitive advantage, and manage human resources. You’ll also explore how to apply strategic thinking and strategy development to a variety of business settings.

From there, you’ll be able to select a specialization in an area that interests you. From executive coaching to entrepreneurship, we offer a variety of specializations that can help you hone your skills and pursue your unique career goals. Whether you want to launch a new company, mentor other business professionals, manage supply chains, or bolster your leadership skills, you can get the niche training you need to prepare for your future.

Additionally, you will complete several courses in qualitative, quantitative, and applied research methods. Then, through a sequence of 4 courses, you will research, write, and defend your dissertation – giving you an opportunity to conduct original research and contribute valuable findings to your field.

Featured Courses

• BUSI 730 – Strategic Allocation of Financial Resources
• BUSI 745 – Marketing for Competitive Advantage
• BUSI 750 – Managing Human Resources
• BUSI 770 – Strategy Formulation and Strategic Thinking

Degree Information

• This program falls under the  School of Business .
• View the  Graduate Business Course Guides   (login required) .
• View the  PhD in Business Administration Handbook
• Contribute to the body of knowledge in your field through this program’s integrated dissertation process.

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Degree?

Liberty has been a pioneer in distance learning since 1985. A lot has changed since then, but our commitment to offering a flexible, accessible, and high-quality education has not. Our PhD in Business Administration program is offered 100% online, and the courses have no set login times. At Liberty, you’ll have the freedom to fit your studies into your schedule and maintain your commitments to your job, family, and community while pursuing your degree.

One of our most valuable assets is our faculty. Our professors have years of business experience and advanced degrees in related areas of study – and they are committed to equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to take the next step in your career. With their guidance, you can prepare to make important contributions in your field and display excellence as a leader in business.

Maybe you’re wondering whether an online degree offers the same rigor and credibility as a residential program. Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ) – so you can rest assured that we offer a world-class education designed to help you stand out to employers and pursue your goals with confidence.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Potential Career Opportunities for Graduates of Our PhD in Business Administration Program

• Chief executive officer
• Company president
• Distribution director
• Entrepreneur
• Executive coach
• Global manager
• Human resources manager
• Leadership development consultant
• Management analyst
• Nonprofit organization director
• Private business consultant
• Purchasing manager
• Training and development manager

PhD in Business Administration Degree Options

At Liberty, you can customize your doctorate degree in business administration by selecting a specialization in an area that interests you. Check out your available options below!

Entrepreneurship

Liberty University’s 100% online  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration – Entrepreneurship  can help you gain an advanced understanding of how to start and run your own business.

View the Degree Completion Plan .

Executive Coaching

Liberty University’s 100% online  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration – Executive Coaching  can help equip you to mentor other business professionals, so they can develop their leadership skills and lead their organizations to success.

Liberty University’s 100% online  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration – Leadership  can help enhance your leadership skills as you learn how to manage teams, foster innovation, and navigate ethical dilemmas in business.

Supply Chain and Logistics

Liberty University’s 100% online  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration – Supply Chain and Logistics  explores how to oversee supply chains on a global level – so you can help ensure that goods and services are created and delivered in an efficient manner.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information for OurOnline PhD in Business Administration Degree Program

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree in business or a business-related field with at least 30 hours of graduate business credit degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
• Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

• Discounted divinity block rate – $2,700 per semester *
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

*Credits taken below 7 and above 15 credit hours per semester are charged at the part-time rate of $395/credit hour.

Eligible current and former service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ), but the $300/credit hour doctoral military rate cannot be combined with the First Responder Discount .

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*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, non-degree-seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and certificate students.

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Application Opening and Closing Dates for Autumn 202 5

Applications to the MA/PhD and PhD open on 1 September 2024. The closing date is December 2, 2024.  A NOTE ON THIS DUE DATE : This application due date is real and is a completion due date. Applications and all required documents received after the due date will not be considered. Applications and all required documents must be uploaded to our online application system. We do not accept any mailed materials.

• Minimum 3.0 or B grade point average over the two most recent years of study (90 quarter or 60 semester credits) guarantees consideration. However, average GPAs for the students we have admitted have been higher. See recent applicant statistics below on this page.
• Ph.D. applicants must show proof of completion of a master’s degree prior to starting the program, though it is common for those applying to the Ph.D. program to be working on their thesis in the year during which they apply.
• M.A./Ph.D. applicants must show proof of completion of a U.S. equivalent bachelor’s degree prior to starting the program, though it is common for applicants to be in their senior year of college when they apply to the M.A./Ph.D. program.
• Full-time status is required for all funded students, but domestic U.S. residents who do not receive assistantships can enroll half-time (please note this is exceedingly rare).
• Applicants who are not native speakers of English must provide  evidence of English language proficiency  (see  Policy 3.2: Graduate School English Language Proficiency Requirements ) and  evidence of spoken English proficiency  (see  Policy 5.2: Conditions of Appointment for TAs who are not Native Speakers of English ).
• Applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States meet both requirements (Note: A master’s or doctoral degree does not satisfy this requirement). Applicants who do not hold a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. institution must have a minimum total score of 92 and speaking score of 26 if using the TOEFL, and a minimum total score of 7.0 and speaking score of 7.0 if using the IELTS. If proof is not provided that these minimums are met as of December 1, the applicant will not be considered.

Submit the following materials online:

• Graduate School online application . The Graduate School requires all applicants to use the web application (if you are truly unable to use the web application, e-mail [email protected] ).
• Application fee . The application fee must be received and recorded by Graduate Admissions prior to the application deadline. You must pay the fee online using a MasterCard or Visa card (both credit and debit cards are accepted) or a TeleCheck (an online “check” taken from your existing checking account). If eligible for and requesting an application fee waiver, please note you must submit your application a minimum of 7 days prior to the application deadline, and earlier is recommended. Details on application fee waivers are available here .
• Unofficial transcripts from each institution from which you received a degree of Bachelor or higher within the online application. Official transcripts are not required for the admissions application and should not be mailed. An unofficial transcript could be a scan of an opened official transcript, or a printout of your academic history from your university’s web portal. It must include all classes taken, grades received, and degrees granted.
• Important : It can take up to two weeks after your testing date or report request for UW to receive your scores, so the GRE should be taken/scores requested no later than November 15 to ensure your scores arrive by the December 1 application completion deadline.
• Important : It can take up to two weeks after your testing date or report request for UW to receive your scores, so the TOEFL or IELTS should be taken/scores requested no later than November 15 to ensure your scores arrive by the December 1 application completion deadline.
• Three recommendations . Letters of recommendation from professors are strongly preferred, but if you have been out of school for many years or have another reason for using non-academic references, other professional recommendations are acceptable. These recommendations are completed online and should not be mailed. The online recommendation includes a short questionnaire, ratings assessment, as well as the opportunity to paste or upload a letter. Please designate your recommenders within the online application early to allow enough time for them to submit their online recommendations no later than December 1.
• Describe explicitly why you have chosen to apply to earn an M.A./Ph.D. or Ph.D. in communication, and why specifically at the University of Washington. If there are additional UW departments in which you would like to take courses, feel free to mention them.
• Describe the main ideas and/or veins of theory that interest you as well as the kind of communication phenomena you wish to study.
• State your academic goals so that the admissions committee may determine whether your goals could be met in our department.
• Explain how the expertise of the 2-3 particular Graduate Faculty whom you selected in the Overview Questions section could support scholarly interests you would like to pursue.
• Write this letter honestly and to the best of your ability, because the admissions committee will read it for its substance and as an indicator of your readiness for and fit with this program.
• For Ph.D. applicants : Please provide a sole-authored academic writing sample , roughly 10-30 pages long, that demonstrates your research competence and your ability to produce original scholarship. This might be a thesis chapter, a journal publication, a seminar paper, or something similar. If necessary, edit your paper for length before submitting it with your application. The admissions committee will read your paper to evaluate your writing competence, the clarity of your argument, and the depth of your analysis and insight.
• For M.A./Ph.D. applicants : Please provide a sole-authored academic writing sample , roughly 10-30 pages. This is typically a paper you wrote for a college or university class, but it can also be a thesis chapter, a journal publication, or a seminar paper. The admissions committee will read your paper to evaluate your writing competence, the clarity of your argument, and the depth of your analysis and insight.
• Resume or curriculum vitae . If you don’t have a vitae, don’t worry. A resume will do. If you do have a vitae, use it instead.
• Overview questions. You will be asked about your career goals and research experiences, given the opportunity to explain any transcript anomalies, and asked to specify 2-3 Graduate Faculty by whom you would like to be mentored.
• In one or two pages, please describe how your experiences and/or academic interests could contribute to a diverse community of communication scholars. For example, you might describe interactions you have had with people of cultural or ethnic backgrounds different from your own, or you might write about intellectual exchanges you have had with persons holding different viewpoints. Your essay might also discuss the unique qualities of your own intellectual or cultural background and how these are likely to enhance diversity in any community.

Are you an international applicant? An international applicant is anyone who is not a United States citizen or a Permanent Resident (green card holder). Please go to the following at the Graduate School website for further information for international applicants: Graduate School international applicant information . Undocumented applicants should follow the instructions here for completing the online application.

• Applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States meet both requirements (Note: A master’s or doctoral degree does not satisfy this requirement). Applicants who do not hold a bachelor’s degree from a US institution must have a minimum total score of 92 and speaking score of 26 if using the TOEFL, and a minimum total score of 7.0 and speaking score of 7.0 if using the IELTS. If proof is not provided that these minimums are met as of December 1, the applicant will not be considered.
• Newly-admitted international students will be required to demonstrate adequate financial support without resorting to unauthorized employment. More information will be sent to applicants who receive an offer of admission. Financial documentation is not necessary at this stage of the application process.
• Full-time status is mandatory for all international students.

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7 Best Online PhD Public Policy Degrees 

• Updated on  
• Aug 30, 2024

A Ph.D. program in public policy trains graduates to analyze proposed policies and assess the impact of existing policies. This research-based degree prepares graduates for academic, governmental, or nonprofit roles that require analytical and research skills. During an online PhD degree, doctoral students build strong research skills. If you are planning to enroll in an online PhD in Public Policy Choosing the right college with an appropriate degree is the main factor. For you, we’ve listed a few Best Online Public Policy PhD degrees that emphasize analytical and methodological skills.

This Blog Includes:

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Here is a list of some of the best online PhD public policy. The coursework explores many different areas of public policy, including the following:

Learn about the PhD Public Administration and Policy by Distance Learning course below: 

Those unable to live and work on campus on a regular basis can pursue a PhD in Public Administration and Policy remotely from the University of Birmingham . Under the supervision of academic experts, they can perform original research. During your first year, you will complete many research training modules. You can also enrol in additional courses provided by the Department or the University to further develop your transferable and discipline-specific abilities.

Website: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/distance/govsoc/public-administration-policy-phd

Here is all about the Harvard Public Policy PhD: Eligibility, Tuition Fees

Learn about the PhD Public Policy – Chinese Affairs course below: 

The Liberty University Online program Public Policy – Chinese Affairs (Online) can help you get ready to engage with policy at a new level. A doctorate in public policy with a focus on Chinese issues can make you stand out if you wish to pursue work with the UN or on Capitol Hill. A PhD in Public Policy-Chinese Affairs from Liberty can help you become a successful public policy expert, regardless of your level of experience in the subject.

Website:https://www.phdportal.com/studies/364396/public-policy-chinese-affairs.html?ref=search_card#content:requirement

Learn about the Public Administration and Policy Online (PhD) course below:  

Online learning is used by Old Dominion University’s program in public administration and policy. The flexible format of the public university facilitates the completion of a doctorate. Career advising and other support services are beneficial to doctorate students. The PhD degree in public policy is offered online. Doctorate candidates complete research for their dissertations and pass extensive exams. The curriculum prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, and business as it is the final degree in public policy.

Website: https://online.odu.edu/academics/programs/public-administration-and-policy-phd

Learn about the PhD Public Policy course below: 

Through this PhD in Public Policy, you will be able to acquire a biblical perspective on statesmanship that will serve as the basis for your courses and your interactions with public policy concerns. You will then immediately immerse yourself in the organizations and problems that currently shape public policy. Combine Liberty’s academic excellence standards with your love for policy. As they guide you through the dissertation process, our academics look forward to imparting to you what they have learned from their vast expertise.

Website: https://www.liberty.edu/online/government/doctoral/public-policy/

Read about MSc Physiology: Courses, Career Options, and Scope

Learn about PhD in Public Policy and Administration course below: 

Tennessee State University offers the only Ph.D. degree in Public Policy and Public Administration. With a fully online approach that gives you the most flexibility to finish your degree, the program will prepare you to be a prominent leader and scholar in public policy and government. In our online PhD program in public policy, you will draw comparisons between the effects of nation-states in different historical periods and the current globalization era.

Website: https://www.tnstate.edu/cpsua/degrees/phd.aspx

Learn about Online PhD in Public Policy and Administration learn below: 

Walden University is renowned for providing a feature-rich virtual education platform. Its online Ph.D. program in public policy is intended to equip individuals at the graduate level, such as yourself, for leadership positions in governmental bodies, public and nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions, among other settings. This program encourages you to look at public policy issues from a global perspective, which fosters international collaboration and understanding. You’ll look at important topics like healthcare, rising expenses, and access concerns for certain communities.

Website: https://www.waldenu.edu/online-doctoral-programs/phd-in-public-policy-and-administration

Learn about the Public Administration, DPA (Online) course below: 

A Doctor of Public Administration degree is available online from California Baptist University. One of the fastest accelerated doctorate programs in public management offered online by CBU 

permits students to complete their coursework in eight weeks, including a residency and dissertation, and graduate as early as 36 months. The coursework and curriculum of the program are created to meet the needs of professionals who are responsible for solving organizational issues at the local, state, and federal levels.

Website: https://calbaptist.edu/academics/programs/online-doctor-of-public-administration/

Here is a list of 8 Best Online PsyD Programs

Graduates in public policy work for commercial and nonprofit organizations as well as the government. Public policy manager, research analyst, duty manager, welfare officer, and related positions are among the positions offered to graduates.

Keep in mind that any EdTech business or Indian university that claims to provide an online PhD program is not legitimate. Thus, if you want flexibility in your PhD program, you might choose to study part-time and work a job at the same time.

Those who wish to pursue a PhD in this and comparable courses must hold a postgraduate degree in an appropriate discipline, such as economics, social science, etc. Additionally, a lot of universities demand that applicants have relevant work experience.

Hope this blog provides you with all the important details, for more information about such courses, visit our online courses page .

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Aditya Saini is a content writer with over a year and a half of experience helping national and international students navigate their journey to work abroad. His expertise lies in “jobs abroad”, all things practical, from writing articles on different topics such as part-time and full-time jobs to understanding salaries for different and highest-paying professions and securing internship programs in different countries. Aditya's passion is ensuring students have all the information they need to make the right decision about their career journeys overseas.

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« RETURN TO NEWS

A&T Expands Graduate Degree Programs Amid Unprecedented Growth

By Hope Baptiste / 09/03/2024 Academic Affairs

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EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Sept. 3, 2024) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has added five new graduate degree programs to its curriculum — three of which gained approval in a single academic year. The university now offers nearly 50 graduate programs across nine colleges and two schools.

 The university welcome the first cohorts of students this fall to its M.S. and Ph.D. programs in criminal justice , as well as its Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The doctoral program in criminal justice is the only one of its kind in North Carolina.

N.C. A&T is also launching a Ph.D. program in applied psychology, which is awaiting accreditation by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) , an institutional accreditor for quality assurance in higher education; and an M.S. in physician assistant studies, which is awaiting specialized accreditation. These programs hope to enroll students beginning Fall 2025.

“Data show that the greatest need for advanced-degree training is centered in healthcare and STEM-related fields,” said Clay Gloster Jr., Ph.D., P.E., vice provost for Graduate Research and dean of The Graduate College. “These new programs will help address those critical needs in the workforce and expand opportunities in law and criminal justice, as well.

“As the nation’s most affordable doctoral research university , A&T is making exceptional graduate education accessible and strengthening its position as a top research and doctorate producing institution."

Housed in the Department of Criminal Justice within A&T’s College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences , the criminal justice master’s and doctoral programs provide exceptional graduate education and training in criminal justice with four areas of specialization: investigative science, digital forensics, research methodology and social justice. The Ph.D. is the college’s first doctoral program.

The two programs emphasize an interdisciplinary approach to academics, research, professional development and leadership. The curriculum and training build on the department’s partnership with local and regional law enforcement agencies. The master’s program is available on campus and online, while the Ph.D. program is offered on campus only.

A&T’s School of Nursing , housed within the John R. and Kathy R. Hairston College of Health and Human Sciences, offers the entry option for the BSN, the traditional four-year BSN, the accelerated one-year BSN for graduates with a bachelor’s degree and the RN-BSN completion for registered nurses.

The new DNP prepares BSN and master trained nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership. Delivered in a hybrid format, the DNP curriculum integrates emerging technology as well as health equity and social justice components to strategically address healthcare challenges. The overall goal is to increase minority students' representation in advanced nursing practice and leadership.

The program bridges workforce gaps in two critical areas: Psychiatry/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providers and Nursing Leadership. More importantly, the program equips future nursing leaders with emerging healthcare technology skills (e.g. telehealth, artificial intelligence, sensors and virtual reality) and competencies to address health equity and social justice.

 “North Carolina A&T’s longstanding commitment to academic excellence ensures future generations of practitioners, public servants and change-makers are well prepared to make positive, lasting impacts in our communities and beyond,” said Tonya Smith-Jackson, Ph.D., provost and executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “These programs further bolster our place among the nation’s leading doctoral research universities and give our students the tools, training and support they need to learn, thrive and succeed.”

These new degree programs punctuate A&T’s phenomenal growth over the past decade. While final enrollment figures are not yet available,  the university has enrolled  more than 14,000 students for academic year 2024-25, eclipsing its enrollment of 13,885 for academic year 2023-24 . The university continues to invest in infrastructure, resources, support services and student success efforts to sustain and enhance its excellence as it grows.

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MBA Programs

USC Marshall has a world-class faculty of leading scholarly researchers and noted practitioners, all of whom make it their business to help you attain your goals. Whether it’s helping you get your head around big data or making that critical professional introduction, USC Marshall’s faculty play a key role in your MBA transformation.

Full-Time MBA (FTMBA)

A comprehensive MBA program to sharpen business fundamentals, technological fluency, and leadership skills while expanding their professional network to transform their career.

Part-Time MBA (MBA.PM)

A flexible, part-time MBA program for working professionals to enhance business fundamentals with diverse electives for customized learning about business and leadership on the global stage.

Executive MBA (EMBA)

A part-time, two-year MBA program preparing senior-level professionals for executive leadership. Curriculum focuses on business strategy, complex problem-solving in real-world contexts, and managerial best practices.

One-Year MBA (IBEAR)

An accelerated full-time, one-year MBA program with international focus for highly experienced mid-career professionals.

Online MBA (OMBA)

Top-ranked, online MBA program with thematically-integrated curriculum delivered through self paced, asynchronous coursework and real-time interactive sessions.

• REQUEST PROGRAM INFORMATION

MBA Programs Overview

MBA Programs Overview 

Leigh Tost, Vice Dean for MBA Programs and Associate Professor of Management and Organization ,  shares how cutting-edge curricula in each of our MBA programs trains students on business fundamentals, and empowers them to leverage technology for business and social impact.

WHY MARSHALL

Career pathways.

Marshall graduate students are actively sought by the world's leading companies Amazon, Google, Salesforce, BCG and Goldman Sachs. Benefitting from Marshall's deep industry ties, they are leaders in a range of industries from Technology, Entertainment and Interactive Gaming to Healthcare, Consulting and Financial Services.

Trojan Network

The Marshall Trojan network links students and business leaders around the globe. Over 90,000 Marshall alumni worldwide create a proactive pay-it-forward culture that drives powerful career outcomes. There is simply no other alumni network quite like it.

Real-World Learning

Every Marshall graduate student has opportunities to integrate and apply what they learn in the classroom to real challenges outside the classroom. Learning by doing trains leaders to be visionary and resilient.

Faculty Expertise

USC Marshall faculty come from a wide array of backgrounds and disciplines. They engage in collaborative and inter-disciplinary teaching to explore business challenges and opportunities from a variety of viewpoints. They incorporate case studies, current events, career panels, and industry speakers to support academic content with real-world perspectives.

Global School in the Heart of LA

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, USC Marshall is embedded in one of the most vibrant global economies and part of a large, diverse university community committed to a culture of inclusion, collegiality, cooperation, and team work. Our students, faculty and alumni play leading roles in the industries that have built and continue to drive L.A. forward - from real-estate and accounting, to marketing and finance, to entertainment and tech.

ALUMNI IN ACTION

Omba course inspires trojans to found investment group.

Marshall’s Online MBA program inspired these friends to start 1880 Capital, an investment group geared toward the Trojan Network.

A Story of Resilience: Hector Cabrera

Marshall alum Hector Cabrera ’20 shares how his mother influenced his entrepreneurship journey.

Alum’s Clean Makeup Brand Keeps Growing

Amy Liu MBA ’04 credits entrepreneurship courses and mentorship for her success.

An Early Network

USC Marshall was the first West Coast business school to join the Consortium. It still plays a role in creating a diverse full-time MBA cohort.

Featured: Olivia Glick MBA 2023 on Poets & Quants

POETS & QUANTS profiles the Marshall Graduate Student Association President who will be joining EY as a Management Consultant following graduation.

Skateboard Diplomacy

First-year Full-Time MBA student Miles Jackson brings skills and a global mindset to Cuban youth through skateboarding.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

USC Marshall has 40 graduate student organizations. Ranging from community outreach, diversity and affinity groups, career clubs, and social and athletic organizations, students are able to expand their network to other USC Marshall MBA graduate programs and corporate contacts. Club activities take place during the day, evenings and weekends, and can include networking opportunities, social events and company visits.

ALL MARSHALL STUDENT ORGS     CAMPUS GROUPS PLATFORM

SELECT ORGANIZATIONS

Black graduate business leaders.

BGBL is dedicated to assisting Marshall Graduate students of African descent become successful leaders in academia and business. BGBL strives to strengthen the economic, intellectual, and cultural wealth of the black community.

Business of Entertainment Association

BEA supports Marshall graduate students to achieve professional goals in the business of media and entertainment.

Marshall Gives Back (MGB)

Our Mission; strenghten the bonds of our Marshallcommunity, give back to our greater community, inspire continued service post- MBA.

Forté MBA Forum: Virtual

Forté MBA Forums are designed for women considering an MBA — whether you’re a high achiever looking to change careers, a college student planning for the future, or a professional ready to take your career to the next level. These free events are held annually to empower you with information about the value of an MBA and connect you with admissions reps at leading business schools.

Executive MBA On-Campus Information Session

Prospective students interested in applying to the Executive MBA program are invited to join the MBA Admissions Committee for an on-campus information session. The session will provide an overview of the application process and program benefits, including our hybrid schedule, Trojan Family, global opportunities, and more! Please note: this is an in-person event.

OMBA Virtual Information Session

Join OMBA admissions as we explore the Online MBA program in a virtual information session. We will cover the student experience, academics, the admissions process and much more.

Executive MBA Virtual Information Session

Join MBA admissions as we explore the Executive MBA program in a virtual information session. We will cover the student experience, academics, the admissions process and much more.

Full-Time MBA Virtual Information Session

Prospective students interested in applying to the Full-Time MBA program are invited to join a member of the Graduate Admissions team for a virtual information session. The hour-long session will provide an overview of the application process and program benefits, including our holistic academic-career program model, career services, global opportunities, and more!