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Top 20 Cheapest Online PhD Programs in 2024

If you’re looking to earn a Ph.D. without committing to full-time study, an online Ph.D.  might be a fantastic option. Many students can juggle their thesis, work, and family commitments, but unfortunately, online doctorates tend to come with a hefty price tag.

That said, you don’t have to break the bank to pursue your qualification! We’ve compiled the 15 cheapest online Ph.D. programs in 2024.

Table of Contents

The 20 Cheapest Online Ph.D. Programs

Related : Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees

1. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

• Missouri State University
• Annual tuition : $14,700
• Cost per credit: No information available
• In-person requirement: 100% online
• Credits required to graduate: 29 credit hours

The Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Missouri State University is one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in nursing. It offers incredible flexibility, letting full-time and part-time students choose between attending classes in real time or watching replays on their own time. The program provides a clear overview of modern scientific methods and practices, entrepreneurship, finance management principles, and health policy for senior nursing professionals.

2. Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc)

• Pacific College of Health and Science
• Annual tuition : $9,988
• Cost per credit: $454
• Credits required to graduate: See the model curriculum

This online program is designed for anyone with a Master’s in Acupuncture. It aims to give students a deeper understanding of Chinese medicine and general biomedicine, specifically acupuncture. It will also sharpen students’ knowledge of healthcare ethics, build leadership skills, and enhance their problem-solving capabilities. This is one of the cheapest online doctorate programs available today, especially considering the number of credit hours.

3. Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Agriculture Education/Higher Education Administration

• Texas Tech University
• Annual tuition : $8,779 (based on full-time courseload of 18 credit hours, for all online learners)
• Cost per credit: $488 per credit hour in-state online learners. According to Texas Tech University, students may pay around the same for out-of-state (although there may be some fees)
• In-person requirement: Hybrid
• Credits required to graduate: 72 credit hours minimum

This cheap online doctoral program in education is delivered entirely online. To be eligible, students need relevant professional experience. For Higher Education specialization, they’ll also require professional experience at a post-secondary institution. The Agriculture Education program will help students develop critical thinking in agricultural research, statistics, and communication.

4. Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

• North Carolina A&T State University
• Annual tuition: $4,194 for in-state students, $15,480 for out-of-state students
• Cost per credit : $233 per credit hour for in-state students, $860 per credit hour for out-of-state students
• Credits required to graduate: 60 credit hours minimum, 48 hours of coursework, 12 hours for dissertation

This interdisciplinary program is for master’s degree holders who want to research sociology and behavior in order to learn more about leadership qualities. The program requires 42 program credits and 12 dissertation credits. This online doctorate is relevant to various industries and disciplines. Upon successful completion, students will be qualified for a range of roles in consultancy, research, and education.

Related : The best one-year online Ph.D. programs

5. Ph.D. in Computer Science

• Colorado Technical University
• Annual tuition: $13,393
• Cost per credit: $598 per credit hour
• In-person requirement: Courses are 100% online. On-campus residency is required during research.
• Credits required to graduate: 100 credit hours are obtainable in as few as three years.

This 100-credit program in computer science provides a modern, relevant approach to computing. With deep knowledge in a specialized area of computer science, students are equipped to predict future trends in the field and make significant contributions to the sector. This program will help them become experts in computer design, security, and processes. As one of the most affordable online Ph.D. programs in computer science, classes are flexible, so students can arrange their studies around their schedule.

Considering that 100 credits are required to graduate, this Colorado Technical University program is one of the most inexpensive Ph.D. programs online.

6. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

• Indiana State University
• Annual tuition : $8,103 for in-state students, $10,527 for out-of-state students
• Cost per credit: $438 per credit hour in-state. Out-of-state students pay $861 per credit hour unless they’re eligible for online rates ($569). A $50 per graduate course fee is added to online learning courses .
• In-person requirement: 100% online
• Credits required to graduate: 37 credit hours, no dissertation required

Students require a Master’s in Nursing to be eligible for Indiana State University’s online DNP program. This program doesn’t involve writing a dissertation, and the entire course can be completed in 37 credit hours. It is designed to develop and sharpen knowledge of care delivery, ethics, leadership, and decision-making while developing critical thinking skills to provide patient care.

To earn a DNP, Indiana State University offers one of the more affordable Ph.D. programs online.

7. Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction

• New Mexico State University
• Annual tuition: $17,551
• Cost per credit: $444.40 per credit hour for all students .
• In-person requirement: One week of in-person learning at the Las Cruces campus during the summer session (required for three summers)
• Credits required to graduate: 66 credit hour minimum. Depending on your advisor and committee suggestions, more may be requested.

The C&I (Curriculum and Instruction) online doctorate at New Mexico State University is a generalist doctoral qualification. You can choose to specialize in multicultural teaching, early childhood education, education and technology, cultural studies, or critical pedagogies. The program also offers the option to choose independent courses to enhance your particular area of study.

The C&I doctoral program is one of the most affordable Ph.D. programs online (a flat rate of $444.4 per credit hour) whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student.

8. Doctor of Public Health / Global Health Leadership

• Indiana University Online
• Annual tuition: $10,350 for in-state students, $22,500 for out-of-state students
• Cost per credit hour: $690 in-state, $1,500 out-of-state
• In-person requirement: Three face-to-face meetings in both Year 1 and Year 2. Otherwise, everything else is online.
• Credits required to graduate: 45 credits over an average of three years

This doctoral qualification specializing in global and public health uses a global curriculum from an international faculty. The program accepts two cohorts: a group with seven years of work experience (after completing a master’s degree) and one for students with at least a few years’ experience post master’s.

Indiana University’s program is designed for professionals in the public health  sector – and it’s one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs of its kind.

9. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

• University of Massachusetts – Amherst
• Annual tuition : $14,850 (based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
• Cost per credit: $825 per credit hour
• In-person requirement: If you already have an MSN and are a CPN (Advanced), you can join the online DNP completion program.
• Credits required to graduate: 36 credit hours

The University of Massachusetts’ online doctorate program in Nursing Practice allows professionals to enhance their practical skills and knowledge of medical care. It also helps them to think critically about advanced scientific knowledge in healthcare, analyze clinical results, and perfect their leadership skills while taking an evidence-based approach through the latest healthcare and nursing research.

10. EdD in Higher Education Administration

• University of Wyoming
• Annual tuition : $6,460 for in-state students, $19,340 for out-of-state students
• Cost per credit: $359 per credit hour for in-state students. $1,075 per credit hour for out-of-state students.
• In-person requirement: Initial campus visit, then almost entirely online
• Credits required to graduate: Roughly 75

University of Wyoming’s doctoral program aims to create education leaders that effectively manage higher education institutions. Students can complete the program with around 75 credits. This program can be completed almost entirely online (though it does require an initial campus visit). If you’re looking for the cheapest Ph.D. online, this is certainly one of them.

11. Doctor of Philosophy in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

• Auburn University
• Annual tuition : $17,082 ((based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
• Cost per credit: $949 per credit hour
• In-person requirement: You may be required to visit the campus for oral exams and project/thesis/dissertation defense
• Credits required to graduate: 30 credit hours minimum for a thesis option, 36 credit hours minimum for the non-thesis option

This is one of the few online doctoral specializations available for professionals in the field of chemical engineering. It is also one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs in the discipline, requiring 30 course credits and 10 research credits to complete. If you’re looking for a cheap online Ph.D. in engineering, this offering from Auburn University might suit you.

Specialization subjects include polymer chemistry and conduction in polymers, mechanics of materials made of textiles, fabrics used for producing paper, along with many others. Any student with a master’s degree from a recognized institution in a relevant field (e.g., biomedical engineering, polymer science) is eligible for the program.

12. Ph.D. of Philosophy in Nursing

• Hampton University
• Annual tuition: $9,382 – $10,425 (based on completing 54 to 60 credits over four years)
• Cost per credit: $695
• Credits required to graduate: 54 to 60 credits over an average of 4 years; 7 years maximum

To apply, students need a master’s degree in a relevant field. This online doctoral degree requires a minimum of 48 credits (beyond a master’s degree) for completion. This is a flexible program where students can pursue areas of interest beyond the core subjects.

13. Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

• Liberty University
• Annual tuition: $13,566 on average
• Cost per credit: $595 per credit for full-time students (6-15 credits per semester)
• Credits required to graduate: 57 credit hours over 2.5 years (on average)

This 100% online and highly flexible program is offered by Liberty University, a higher education institution grounded in Christian values. The program specializes in diagnosis, treatment, and counseling, especially in family and marriage, as well as research and education methodology. Note : This EdD degree does not meet state counseling licensure requirements.

14. Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy

• Annual tuition: $11,900 on average
• Cost per credit:  $595 per credit hour for full-time online (enrolled in 6 to 15 credits per semester)
• Credits required to graduate: 60 credit hours over 3 years on average

This online doctoral program can be completed in 60 credit hours and aims to equip students for the world of public policy. It encourages new research to improve and transform the public policy sector through Christian doctrine.

15. Doctor of Business Administration

• Columbia Southern University
• Annual tuition : $8,845
• Cost per credit: $435
• Credits required to graduate: minimum of 61 credits (up to 9 can be transferred)

One of the most affordable online degree programs in Business Administration, this Columbia Southern Ph.D. allows students to develop advanced leadership and decision-making skills, focusing on both research and the application of theory. To earn their doctorate, students need to complete a dissertation and defend it before a committee (which can be done remotely). In addition to this project-based study, students must also complete coursework on topics such as corporate responsibility, financial and accounting management, and quantitative data analysis.

16. Juris Doctor

• Abraham Lincoln University
• Annual tuition : $11,375
• Cost per credit: $325 per quarter unit
• Credits required to graduate: 140 quarter units over four years

The Juris Doctor program offered by Abraham Lincoln University is one of the oldest online law schools in California. Fully online, students learn a range of advanced analytical, technical, and research skills to practice law or work in a range of positions in the legal sector. The program is registered with the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California.

17. Doctor of Education (EdD)

• William Howard Taft University
• Annual tuition: $6,480 (based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
• Cost per credit: $360
• Credits required to graduate: 60 credits

This online Ph.D. in Education program equips students with advanced knowledge of organizational development, educational psychology, diversity in education, and law & ethics. Students can choose between three concentrations: Leadership & Administration, Educational Technology, and Charter School Administration.

18. Online Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

• Arizona State University
• Tuition : $10,170 (for a full-time load of nine credit hours per semester)
• Cost per credit: $565
• Credits required to graduate: 90 credit hours

This affordable online doctorate is offered in a cohort model that is designed to provide students with a high degree of academic support. As part of this model, students are placed in leader scholar community groups to improve student experiences and promote better learning outcomes. Designed for practicing educators and leaders in the education sector, the program gives educators the tools to better support student success and drive positive change in classrooms – and across entire institutions.

Students may opt for one of three educational pathways:

• Pre-K to Grade 12 Change Leadership
• Higher Education Change Leadership
• Systems, Professional, and Reimagined Change Leadership.

19. E dD in Leadership

• American College of Education
• Total program cost: $23,914
• Cost per credit: $306 (total program cost $23,914)
• Credits required to graduate: 64 credits over 36 months

This is one of the most affordable fully online doctoral programs in educational leadership. Students pursue original research in an area of their choice while using evidence-based decision-making to solve real-world problems. The program typically takes three years, but accelerated programs are available for qualifying students (e.g., EdS, ACE graduates).

20. Doctor of Nursing Practice (Educational Leadership)

• Post University
• Annual tuition: $13,860
• Cost per credit: $770
• Credits required to graduate: 42 credit hours over 28 months

This is one of only a handful of online DNP programs specializing in educational leadership. It equips nursing educators with vital skills across leadership, curriculum development, policy, finance, research, and strategic planning. The program is broken down into eight-week courses and offers six start dates per year, making it easier for busy professionals to fit their studies into their schedules.

What’s the Average Cost of Online Doctoral Degrees?

Most online doctoral degree programs cost between $10,000 and $20,000 yearly in tuition and fees. However, this can vary widely depending on the institution and field of study. The most affordable online doctorate degrees start at around $6,000 annually, with a total degree cost of around $12,000.

Related : The easiest Ph.D. to consider

Make Cheap Online Ph.D. Programs Even More Affordable

We’ve pulled together the cheapest online doctoral degree programs from respected institutions in various fields. However, even when looking at the most affordable online doctoral programs, tuition and other fees can add up. Luckily, many sources of financial support can help.

Many universities and colleges provide financial aid to students. There are also scholarships, loans, and grants available for deserving students. You can even ask your employer to cover all or part of your tuition and other study expenses.

Top Doctoral Degree Fields

By looking at the median annual wage, some of the highest-paying fields for Ph.D. graduates (as of 2021) include:

• Psychiatrists : $226,880
• Software Architects : $120,520
• Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers : $97,410
• Medical Scientists : $95,310
• Petroleum Geologists : $83,680

Related : The top online Ph.D. programs .

Where Are Ph.D. Holders Most Desired?

Currently, doctorate holders are most in demand  in the fields of law, post-secondary education (especially in health specialties), and physical therapy. You’ll find countless affordable online doctorate programs, especially in some of the programs we listed above.

Mean earnings in the US in 2021 by level of educational attainment:

• Less than 9th grade: $32,907
• High school (9th to 12th Nongrad): $30,072
• Graduate (including GED): $42,851
• Some college, but no degree: $45,423
• Associate degree: $52,127
• Bachelor’s degree: $80,384
• Master’s degree: $97,647
• Professional degree: $156,305
• Doctorate degree: $140,469

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest online doctorate.

In the age where online learning is becoming the norm, it comes as no surprise that more and more institutions are offering doctoral degrees online. Online education, by its nature, tends to be cheaper than in-person learning. To give you a better idea, some of the cheapest online doctoral programs are:

• North Carolina A&T State University’s Doctor of Philosophy program  costs just $233 per credit, or $4,194 per year in annual tuition for in-state residents. However, tuition is significantly higher for residents of other states.
• Columbia Southern University  offers doctorate programs at $435 per credit hour (or $391.50 for CSU Learning Partner members). The university tries to include textbooks  and eBooks in the total cost to lower your costs even more. Of course, this may not always be valid for those working toward doctorates.

It’s worth mentioning that many doctorates (even those online) offer financial aid opportunities to help you pay part or all of your tuition costs. It may be worth looking into programs where these opportunities exist.

Do Online Ph.D. Programs Provide Financial Aid?

If you want to earn your doctorate online, you can still apply for FAFSA  if the school or program accepts it. Consider online schools and programs that offer financial aid.

Most universities will offer scholarships and grants to qualifying students, whether they are attending in-person or online classes. For example, students at Missouri State University’s Doctor of Nursing program can apply for MSU’s annual scholarship.

Note: Although you can apply for various scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to get them.

Are Online Ph.D. Programs Legitimate?

Yes, there are a large number of legitimate online Ph.D. programs offered by reputable institutions. As with any higher-education program, it’s essential to check that the school is accredited before enrolling, as this is directly related to the value of any qualification. It’s also important to consider the institution’s reputation, which may influence potential future employers.

Can I Get a Ph.D. for Free?

Several fully-funded Ph.D. programs  offer doctorates with no out-of-pocket costs. These programs typically cover tuition and other expenses for the entire duration of the program through scholarships, grants, work-study, or a combination of these. Some schools even offer a stipend for living expenses.

However, many of these programs involve on-campus attendance. The options for fully-funded online doctoral programs are much more limited.

Key Takeaways

An online doctoral qualification not only helps you to advance your career but also encourages your personal development via critical thinking, leadership, and analytical skills. You’ll find that pursuing one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in 2022 will provide countless benefits!

Want to get a Ph.D. but aren’t sure if you qualify? Discover whether you need a master’s to get a Ph.D. !

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.

• Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ ACBSP Vs AACSB: Which Business Program Accreditations is Better?
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Explore a range of online doctoral programs, including Ph.D. degrees, that offer accelerated paths, reduced residency requirements, and flexible online learning options.

Many degree programs fall under the title of doctorate, including Doctor of Philosophy degrees or Ph.D.

These Ph.D. degree programs are available in a variety of subjects and are intended to help students understand their specialty in the abstract and as a school of thought and theory rather than strictly as a practice.

Institutions that offer the best programs typically have exceptional funding, prestigious reputations, top-of-the-line research facilities, and abundant academic resources.

When selecting one of the shortest online doctoral programs or easiest online Ph.D. programs, you can access more info by visiting the links provided in each school description to ensure that you find the best program for you!

The easiest isn't always the shortest nor the shortest the easiest.

Doctorate Programs That Might Interest You

1-year Online Doctoral Programs | 18 Month Doctorate Programs Without Dissertation | Shortest Doctoral Programs Online and On-campus | Easiest Ph.D. to Get Online | Easiest PhD to Get (Traditional) | Free PhD Programs Online

Doctorate Degree vs PhD

Ph.D. programs focus more on the theoretical and abstract aspects of their respective fields of study to understand it as a school of thought rather than just a practical application.

Usual doctorate programs tend to be more practical in their study and focus on the application of knowledge rather than understanding more abstract perspectives.

Ph.D. degrees are often offered in the same fields that have standard doctoral degrees available usually offered in fields such as engineering, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

Doctorate programs are made up of advanced coursework, research projects, or thesis work almost strictly for practical application. Such degrees will get you ready to teach at the university level or help you advance to the leading edge of your field researching, serving, and creating.

Ph.D. and Doctorate degrees can often achieve the same ends and should be considered more or less equal in weight.

1 Year Ph.D. Programs Online

Chatham university.

Chatham offers a 1-year online DNP program for working nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. The intensive curriculum covers care delivery models, quality improvement, evidence-based practice, and informational systems. The program features synchronous online classes and immersive clinicals at sites nationwide. Students collaborate virtually with renowned faculty.

Within 12 months, students complete 36 credits and 1,000 clinical hours. Graduates can sit for Family Nurse Practitioner certification. Nurses with a BSN can enter the accelerated program. Applicants need an active RN license. This online DNP empowers nurses to rapidly earn doctoral credentials while working. It prepares graduates to advance as clinical, executive, research, and teaching leaders.

Breyer State Theology University

Breyer State Theology University offers a 1-year online PhD in Grief Counseling through its Department of Ethereal Studies. This accelerated program is tailored for working professionals seeking to advance their bereavement therapy career. The curriculum covers advanced grief counseling theories and interventions for diverse populations. Students gain expertise in areas like trauma-informed care, healing rituals, afterlife philosophies, and continuing bonds.

The online format combines asynchronous learning with live classes in an intimate cohort overseen by esteemed faculty. Students complete their dissertation in just one year. Graduates earn a PhD from BSU's pioneering metaphysical psychology department. This flexible doctoral program prepares students to progress their counseling practice or pursue academic research roles.

American International Theism University

American International Theism University (AITU) offers one-year online doctoral degrees for working professionals. Accelerated PhD tracks include Philosophy of Islamic Studies, Business Administration, Education, Finance, and Grief Counseling. Professional doctorates prepare leaders in Divinity, Sacred Music, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. The online programs blend video lectures, discussions, and immersive retreats. Curricula explore metaphysics, ethics, and wisdom traditions across faiths.

Within 12 months, students complete doctoral coursework, exams, and a dissertation overseen by distinguished faculty. Applicants should hold a relevant master's degree and background in theological studies or social sciences. These intensive online doctoral programs allow students to rapidly earn advanced credentials through flexible study with global peers. Graduates pursue roles driving innovation in spiritual care, research, and leadership.

Online Doctorate Programs That Might Interest You

15-18 month doctorate programs without dissertation, boston university.

Boston University offers a Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree program that can be completed in 18 months. The program consists of 10 courses, which are about 33 to 37 credits. Students may concentrate on various areas and can then choose what else they would prefer to learn to complete their credit requirements.

This is a fully online degree program that accelerates each semester’s worth of class to take only seven weeks to complete with new courses starting every September, January, and May. The program is available to doctoral students who have completed an accredited occupational therapy program. There are foundation courses, which include evidence-based practice and health care management, but no dissertation is necessary whereas a doctoral project is still required.

Frontier Nursing University

The Maryville University of St. Louis offers a Doctor of Nursing (DNP) program that is available online. The DNP program requires students to complete a total of 33 credit hours, including 18 to 20 months for completion. Many students in the online DNP program are working as nurses in the field, and this affords them a flexible program that allows many students to achieve their academic goals while active in the healthcare industry.

This course is an online program that does not require a GMAT or GRE. It may have a waiting list, but unlike other programs, it does not require clinical hours. The Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership is an online program that offers personal coaching throughout the process. It is a cohort learning method with online education, and students might need a bit more time to complete it.

Maryville University

Maryville University offers online doctoral degrees tailored for working professionals. Programs available fully online include Doctorates in Higher Education Leadership, Educational Leadership, Nursing Practice, Health Administration, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. The EdD programs prepare graduates for leadership and faculty roles in education. The DNP equips nurses for advanced clinical and executive practice.

Health Administration focuses on healthcare organizational development, quality, and finance. Licensed PTs and OTs can pursue clinical doctorates while working. Courses blend live online classes and self-paced learning. Programs leverage cutting-edge virtual labs and simulations. With a relevant master's degree, students can earn an accredited doctorate from Maryville University online to advance their careers.

24 Month Doctorate Programs

University of north carolina – chapel hill.

One option is to earn an online Ph.D. in Nursing, while another option is to earn their Medical Degree at the same time as their  Master of Business Administration , but the Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical therapy may be earned in 24 months fully online. This part-time program provides online learning courses to help licensed physical therapists enhance their skills and gain access to higher career options. Some credits can be earned through workplace applications.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers over a dozen online doctoral degrees tailored for working professionals. GCU provides online EdD tracks in Organizational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, and K-12 Leadership. Other doctorates cover psychology, nursing, business, and more. Programs blend asynchronous and live virtual classes focused on applying concepts. Specialized tracks allow customization.

Online students get personalized faculty support and access to robust digital resources. Within 2 years (or less), learners complete coursework, residencies, exams, and a dissertation to earn an accredited doctoral degree from GCU. With flexible and practical curricula, GCU enables busy professionals to obtain doctorates fully online and further their careers.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Education degree program that can be completed fully online. The minimum time to earn the degree is about 30 months for completion of all 54 credits. The courses are each 8 weeks long and no dissertation is required. The Doctor of Education degree program provides a curriculum that focuses on developing innovative programs, as well as a capstone project.

University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia offers several online doctoral degree options for working professionals seeking advanced training. UWG provides online doctorates in School Improvement, Nursing Education, Professional Counseling and Supervision, and Higher Education Administration. The EdD programs focus on data-driven leadership strategies and developing administrative expertise.

The DNP prepares nurses to improve care systems and patient outcomes. Coursework blends synchronous evening classes and self-paced learning for flexibility. Experiential projects allow application to careers. With a relevant master's degree, students can earn an accredited doctorate fully online from UWG to advance as leaders in their field.

Shortest Ph.D. Programs Online and On-campus

Obtaining a Ph.D. can be a long-term commitment and many doctoral programs can take over five years to complete. To help busy working professionals looking to jumpstart their careers and those looking to begin their careers at a high level, this list serves as a simple reference guide, compiling information on some of the shortest doctoral programs in the country.

These online degree programs operate in full-time, part-time, fully online, or hybrid formats.

• Baylor University - online EdD in Learning and Organizational Change, 54 credits, 36 months
• Maryville University - online Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online DNP), 20 months, no GRE or no GMAT requirement
• University of Dayton - online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership for Organizations, 36 months, 60 credits
• Capella University - online Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision, 0 max transfer credits, 60 credits, CACREP accredited
• Franklin University - online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), 58 credit hours, transfer up to 24 hours of previously earned credit, 36 months + 1 year for dissertation
• Walden University - online Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology, up to 53 credits, fast-track option, earn MPhil at the same time
• Frontier Nursing University - online Doctor of Nursing Practice, MSN with DNP, 675 clinical hours for MSN plus 360 additional for DNP
• Boston University - Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, PP-OTD, 33-37 credits
• University of Florida - online MSN to DNP, 35 credits, five semesters
• Gwynedd Mercy University - Accelerated Executive Doctorate of Education ABD (All But Dissertation) Completion Program, online EdD , 27 credit hours, 18 months
• Duquesne University - Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), 35 credit hours
• The College of St. Scholastica - Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy, online tDPT, 16 credits
• Liberty Univesity - Doctor of Ministry, online DMin, 30 credit hours, 24 months
• University of Florida - Doctor of Nursing Practice, MSN to DNP, 35 credits, 5 semesters
• University of North Dakota - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP, 36 credit hours, 5 semesters
• Seton Hall University - Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP, 31+ credits for post-MSN students, 73-79 credits for post-BSN students
• Regis University - Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP , 28-33 credit hours, 8-week terms
• Georgia State University - Curriculum and Instruction EdD, Educational Leadership EdD, on-campus EdD, 54 credit hours
• Bowling Green State University   - Technology Management, web-based Ph.D., 66 credit hours
• Hampton University - Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management, online Ph.D., 60 credit hours
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Safety Sciences, online Ph.D., 54 credit hours
• East Carolina University   - Doctor of Nursing Practice, hybrid online DNP

Easiest Ph.D. Programs Online & On-Campus

To be sure, at the Ph.D. level, no program could be considered "easy," but there are certain programs designed to be "easier" than others. Generally, education, humanities, and the social sciences are considered the easiest fields in which to pursue degrees.

With that in mind, our list of the easiest Ph.D. programs includes schools and programs that offer significantly reduced residency requirements, accelerated courses, credit transfers, and integrated dissertation colloquia.

The rankings below display schools with accreditation from at least one of the six regional accrediting agencies , and all offer at least one virtual Ph.D. degree. Accredited online Ph.D. programs are also organized according to the U.S. News and World Report and Forbes Magazine rankings.

Easiest Online Ph.D. Programs & Online Doctoral Programs

• WALDEN UNIVERSITY - 156 Online Doctoral Programs
• REGENT UNIVERSITY - 81 online doctorate degrees, 6 Ph.D. programs online
• HAMPTON UNIVERSITY - 5 online doctoral degree programs
• UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - 8 online doctoral degree programs
• UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI - 4 online doctorate programs
• COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - 3 online Ph.D. programs, 1 online doctoral program
• UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA - 12 online Ph.D. programs, 3 online doctoral programs
• NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY -  10 online doctorate programs, 8 online Ph.D. programs
• LIBERTY UNIVERSITY -  19 online Ph.D. programs, 16 online doctorate programs

Easiest Ph.D. to Get (Traditional)

The easiest doctorate degree can vary depending on your interests, skills, and strengths. However, here is a list of doctorate degrees that are mentioned as potentially less difficult to obtain:

• Business Administration: This program focuses on business development, design, methods, tools, and professional ethics. A Ph.D. in Business Administration can be a good choice for professionals looking to advance their careers in business.
• Counseling: A doctorate in counseling allows you to specialize in areas such as human behavior, social psychology, counseling supervision, or specific therapy approaches. This degree can lead to advanced career opportunities in healthcare and social services.
• Criminal Justice: This program equips you with research skills and the ability to analyze data in the field of criminal justice. It can open doors to various career paths, including emergency management, forensic departments, and information security sectors.
• Education: A doctorate in education focuses on enhancing educational research skills and preparing for leadership roles in educational institutions. It can lead to administrative positions in universities, professional departments, or elementary and secondary schools.
• Healthcare Administration: This program prepares you for leadership roles in the business aspect of the medical industry. It covers topics such as policies, ethics, group management, hospital administration, and advanced patient care.
• Human Services: A doctorate in human services prepares you for leadership positions within organizations that help underserved populations. It focuses on policies, legislation, rights, ethics, and protocols for serving within human services organizations.
• Management: This program provides practical skills applicable to various industry settings. It covers areas such as financial management, system management, conflict management, and human resources management.
• Public Administration: A doctorate in public administration develops managerial and strategic planning skills for administrative roles in different industries. It offers coursework in ethics of management, public policy, strategic planning, performance management, employee evaluation, and economics of administration.
• Public Health: This program equips you with advanced training and research skills for the healthcare industry. It focuses on leadership and management roles in public health, emphasizing innovative thinking and communication mastery.
• Public Policy: A doctorate in public policy focuses on theory, ethics, research, and practice in public service programs. It prepares you to analyze and propose policies to improve communities and societies.
• Psychology: A doctorate in psychology combines research skills with professional practice. It can lead to careers as addictions counselors, applied researchers, professional consultants, or clinical psychologists.
• Theology: A doctorate in theology explores divine and spiritual traditions through academics, research, and religious studies. It can lead to careers as professors, social service managers, private school teachers, or directors of religious education.

Please note that the difficulty of a doctorate degree can vary depending on individual circumstances, personal strengths, and the specific requirements of each program. It's important to thoroughly research and consider your own interests, skills, and career goals before deciding on a doctorate program.

Free Ph.D. Programs Online (Fully Funded)

According to Best-Universities.net .

• Brown University - Fully-funded Ph.D. program in computer science
• University of Houston-Downtown - Full scholarship program for online doctorate
• Devry University - Comprehensive scholarship program for online degrees
• University of Maryland-Baltimore County - Full scholarship program for online undergraduate and graduate degrees
• Wilson Community College - Full scholarship program for community college students
• University of Leeds - Up to 30 fully-funded online Ph.D. programs
• University of the Witwatersrand - Comprehensive scholarship program for online bachelor's or master's degrees
• The University of Texas at Dallas - Full scholarship program for online bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees
• University of Strathclyde - Full scholarship program for online undergraduate or master's degrees
• Emory University - Fully-funded online Ph.D. program in economics
• New York University - Fully-funded Ph.D. program in childhood education
• University of Pennsylvania - Fully-funded online Ph.D. program in educational leadership and policy

If you're not looking for an accelerated program , the list below displays some of the best traditional Ph.D. programs in the country, according to Study.com.

Best Ph.D. Programs in the U.S.

Guide to online doctorate degrees.

Fewer positions requiring this advanced level qualification and reduced competition for such job opportunities among job seekers are some of the reasons behind the few doctoral graduates.

With technological advancements in almost all areas of life, acquiring education, a significantly advanced level of education has become more accessible.

Graduate students now do not have to attend physical classes to pursue their dreams of developing and advancing their skills.

You can pursue your doctorate in the comfort of your home or even your office. There was a 20% growth in students granted doctorate degrees between the 2009/2010 and 2019/2020 academic years, according to NCES. This growth has been attributed in part to online Ph.D. programs and the streamlining of modern universities.

Online Ph.D. programs are a relatively newer idea and online schooling in general has greatly increased access, flexibility, and convenience.

Students typically complete these degrees soon after completing a Master’s degree in the same area. As such, and with bachelor's degrees being necessary stepping stones, students can expect their journey from primary school to a Ph.D. to take about nine years, barring any accelerated tracks and failed classes.

Cost of an Online Doctoral Degree Program

When choosing any doctoral degree program, it is crucial to evaluate the costs and salary after attending. Even though online Ph.D. courses may usually be cheaper than on-campus learning, secondary schooling is rarely cheap and not every field will allow you to make back the cost in a reasonable amount of time.

Tuition, materials, technology, transportation, housing, and groceries should all be factors brought into account when deciding whether or where to attend, and in what field you can find the most success and fulfillment.

Below are the annual tuition rates of different institutions as reported by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

• Private-For profit institutions- $18,200
• Private-Not for-profit institutions- $37,600
• Public institutions- $9,400

Choosing an Online Doctoral Degree Program

Since doctoral programs require considerable investments of money and time, it is important to consider every factor before deciding on a school or program. Take some time to consider the marketability, cost, and difficulty of each program and your own interest in the subject. To reach your career and educational goals, do your best research.

How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD

The length of a Ph.D. program can vary, but it typically takes 3 to 6 years to complete.

• A Ph.D. program typically takes 5 to 6 years in the United States.
• A Ph.D. program typically takes 3 to 4 years in the UK and many other European countries.

The actual length of a Ph.D. program can be influenced by many factors, including the nature of the research, the student's progress, the advisor's availability, and funding considerations.

• Some students may finish in less time, while others may take longer.
• Part-time Ph.D. programs are also available, which can take longer to complete.

Here is a table summarizing the length of Ph.D. programs in different countries:

Top 50 doctorate-granting institutions ranked by the total number of doctorate recipients, by sex: 2020

Tied institutions are listed alphabetically.

National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, Survey of Earned Doctorates.

Doctorate recipients from U.S. colleges and universities: 1958–2020

(Number and percent) * = value < |0.05%|.

State or location of doctorate institution ranked by the total number of doctorate recipients, by sex: 2020

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Most Affordable Online Ph.D. Programs in 2024

• Online Degrees
• 10 min read

Pursuing a Ph.D. can be a costly endeavor, but it doesn’t have to break the bank.

We’ve ranked the 20 most affordable online Ph.D. programs based on a methodology weighing three key factors.

The Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in 2024

Rankings analysis and insights, guide to affordable online phd programs, top paying phd degrees, common questions about affordable online phd programs, can i earn a ph.d. online for free.

Ranking Methodology

• Annual Tuition Costs: This accounts for 50% of the ranking score. We looked at the total annual tuition cost for a full-time course load. Lower tuition receives a higher score.
• Cost Per Credit Hour: 30% of the ranking score is based on the cost per credit hour. A lower cost per credit equals a higher score.
• Flexibility and Accessibility: The remaining 20% of the score focuses on program flexibility and accessibility. Programs that are 100% online with multiple start dates per year and no residency requirements receive the highest marks.

Using this ranking methodology, here are the top 20 most affordable online Ph.D. programs for 2024.

North Carolina A&T State University – Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

• $4,194 – $15,480 annual tuition
• 60 credits, 100% online

With in-state tuition of just $233 per credit hour, NC A&T tops the list as the #1 most affordable online PhD program. This flexible 60 credit program has no residency requirements and focuses on leadership theory and research methods.

Columbia Southern University – Doctor of Business Administration

Doctor of Business Administration

• $8,845 annual tuition
• 61 credits, 100% online

At $435 per credit hour, CSU offers one of the cheapest online business doctorates. This 100% online, 61 credit DBA has a dissertation requirement but no residency.

William Howard Taft University – Doctor of Education

Doctor of Education

• $6,480 annual tuition

Taft’s EdD only costs $360 per credit and has no additional fees. The 60 credit degree is fully online with a choice of concentrations.

American College of Education – EdD in Leadership

EdD in Leadership

• $6,528 annual tuition
• 64 credits, 100% online

For $306 per credit hour, ACE offers an affordable leadership-focused doctorate in education completely online. Students complete a dissertation.

Indiana State University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

Doctor of Nursing Practice

• $8,103 – $10,527 annual tuition
• 37 credits, 100% online

With tuition of $438 per credit, ISU’s 37 credit DNP is a top choice for an affordable nursing doctorate. The program is 100% online with no residencies.

Texas Tech University – EdD in Agricultural Education

EdD in Agricultural Education

• $8,779 annual in-state tuition
• 72 credits, hybrid

Texas residents pay only $488 per credit for this 72 credit education doctorate with an agricultural focus from TTU. It is mostly online with minimal campus visits.

Post University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

• $13,860 annual tuition
• 42 credits, 100% online

Post offers its 42 credit DNP for only $770 per credit hour. The program is entirely online in an accelerated 28-month timeline.

Liberty University – Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

• $13,566 annual tuition
• 57 credits, 100% online

Liberty’s CCC EdD costs just $595 per credit with discounts for full-time students. The 57 credit program is 100% online.

University of Wyoming – EdD in Higher Education Administration

EdD in Higher Education Administration

• $6,460 – $19,340 annual tuition
• 75 credits, mostly online

UW’s education doctorate costs only $359 per credit for in-state students. It is mostly online with one initial campus visit.

Missouri State University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

• $14,700 annual tuition
• 29 credits, 100% online

MSU’s DNP runs $14,700 in flat annual tuition, making it one of the most affordable nursing doctorates. The 29 credit program is completely online.

Abraham Lincoln University – Juris Doctor

Juris Doctor (JD)

• $11,375 annual tuition
• 140 credits, 100% online

ALU offers an ABA-approved law doctorate for only $325 per quarter unit. The 140 unit JD is 100% online with flexibility.

Arizona State University – Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

• $10,170 annual tuition
• 90 credits, 100% online

ASU’s EdD is $565 per credit but offers grants and scholarships to lower costs further. The 90 credit program is online in a supportive cohort model.

University of Massachusetts – Doctor of Nursing Practice

• $14,850 annual tuition
• 36 credits, online after MSN

UMass’ 36 credit DNP is $825 per credit hour for a total cost under $15,000 a year. It is online after completing an MSN degree.

New Mexico State University – PhD in Curriculum & Instruction

PhD in Curriculum & Instruction

• $17,551 annual tuition
• 66+ credits, mostly online

NMSU’s C&I doctorate is $444 per credit for all students. It is mostly online with some summer campus sessions required.

Pacific College of Health and Science – Doctor of Acupuncture

Doctor of Acupuncture

• $9,988 annual tuition
• Varies, 100% online

At $454 per credit, this DAOM completion degree is one of the most affordable doctorates in acupuncture. The program is 100% online.

Colorado Technical University – PhD in Computer Science

PhD in Computer Science

• $13,393 annual tuition
• 100 credits, online with residency

CTU offers a flexible 100 credit PhD in computer science for $598 per credit hour. Online with occasional on-campus research.

Indiana University – Doctor of Public Health

Doctor of Public Health

• $10,350 – $22,500 annual tuition
• 45 credits, mostly online

IU’s online DrPH costs between $690-$1500 per credit depending on residency. It includes some face-to-face meetings over two years.

Hampton University – PhD in Nursing

PhD in Nursing

• $9,382 – $10,425 annual tuition
• 54-60 credits, 100% online

Hampton’s online nursing PhD ranges from $695-$750 per credit. The flexible 54-60 credit program has no residency requirements.

Auburn University – PhD in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

PhD in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

• $17,082 annual tuition
• 30-36 credits, mostly online

Auburn’s engineering Ph.D. is $949 per credit. The program is mostly online, with potential campus visits for exams and defense.

Liberty University – PhD in Public Policy

Ph.D. in Public Policy

• $11,900 annual tuition

Liberty’s 60 credit public policy Ph.D. costs $595 per credit. The online program incorporates Christian doctrine.

• Public and state colleges tend to offer the most affordable options, with lower in-state tuition rates. Private universities are typically more expensive for online doctoral programs.
• Certain fields like nursing, education, business, and public policy have numerous affordable online options, likely due to high demand. Fields like law, medicine, and hard sciences have fewer cheap online programs available.
• Total credit requirements range widely from 30 credits up to over 90 credits, impacting overall program cost. Shorter programs with no dissertation requirement are sometimes cheaper.
• Annual tuition costs of $10,000-15,000 are quite common even for affordable online PhDs. Programs under $10,000 are rare, making financial aid and support crucial.
• 100% online programs with no residency provide the most cost savings on travel and lodging. Programs with some on-campus elements have higher overall costs.
• Part-time and flexible pacing options can lower per credit tuition rates at some schools, ideal for working professionals.
• Even affordable programs often have extra fees for technology, resources, and graduation costs that add to the total price.
• Ranking strictly by annual tuition cost provides just one data point. Cost per credit and program flexibility also influence value.

In summary, public universities tend to offer the most affordable online Ph.D. options, especially in high-demand fields like nursing and education. But additional financial support is still key, even with cheaper programs. Flexibility, required credits, and fees also impact total costs.

Pursuing a PhD can be expensive, but online programs can provide a more affordable option for advancing your education and career. This guide covers key factors to consider when researching cheap online doctoral programs.

What to Look For in Affordable Online PhDs

• Low Tuition Costs – Compare annual and per credit tuition rates. In-state public schools tend to be cheaper.
• Limited Fees – Watch out for extra fees that can increase the overall cost.
• 100% Online – Fully online programs eliminate travel and on-campus costs.
• Flexibility – Look for self-paced options with multiple start dates per year.
• Financial Aid – Ask about scholarships, grants, assistantships, and other aid opportunities.
• No Residency – Programs without residency requirements maximize cost savings.

Most Affordable Online Ph.D. Fields

Certain subjects tend to have lower-cost online doctoral options:

• Public Policy/Administration
• Engineering
• Computer Science

Ways to Save on Online PhDs

If tuition is still high, here are some tips to reduce costs:

• Apply for financial aid through the school and external scholarships
• Use employer education benefits or tuition reimbursement
• Attend part-time to qualify for lower per-credit rates
• Find paid research or teaching assistant roles
• Take advantage of in-state tuition if moving is an option

A Ph.D. can lead to high-paying jobs in academia, research, or specialized industries.

These degrees offer high salaries because they require a high level of skill and knowledge. They also lead to careers in in-demand fields.

• Early Career Salary: $103,000
• Mid-Career Salary: $144,000
• Initial Salary: $118,000
• Pay at mid-career level: $145,000
• Early Career Salary: $83,400
• Mid-Career Salary: $146,000
• Early Career Salary: $96,100
• Early Career Salary: $93,700
• Mid-Career Salary: $135,000
• Pay in Your Early Years: $88,100
• Pay at mid-career level: $133,000
• Salary for an Early Career: $105,000
• Pay at mid-career level: $131,000
• Early Career Salary: $93,600
• Mid-career salary: $137,000
• Early Career Salary: $75,400
• Mid-Career Salary: $141,000
• Early Career Salary: $73,600
• Mid-Career Salary: $138,000

Pursuing an online PhD program can provide flexibility and convenience for working professionals and parents.

However, earning a doctoral degree remotely also raises many questions about cost, financial aid, legitimacy, and more.

The section below answers some of the most frequently asked questions about affordable online PhD options .

What are some of the cheapest online doctorate programs?

While tuition costs vary, some particularly affordable options include:

• North Carolina A&T State University’s online Doctor of Philosophy program charges just $233 per credit hour for in-state students.
• Columbia Southern University offers doctoral programs starting at $435 per credit hour, including textbooks and eBooks.
• Many schools provide financial assistance, which can lower out-of-pocket costs for online learners. Checking a program’s aid opportunities is advisable.

Can I get financial aid for an online PhD program?

Yes, financial aid, including scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans, is often available for online doctoral students–some of which are known as “ fully funded online PhD programs “. Steps to take:

• Complete the FAFSA if the program/school accepts it.
• Research scholarships and grants specifically for online learners.
• Ask about aid directly through the school or program.
• Explore employer education benefits and professional development funds.

Are online PhD programs seen as legitimate credentials?

Absolutely. Top schools like Stanford, Columbia, and MIT now offer online doctorates. Be sure to verify:

• The program has valid accreditation .
• The school is non-profit and regionally accredited.
• Past graduates found career success after earning their degrees .

A small number of schools provide full funding for select on-campus Ph.D. students. But free online options besides the GI Bill for veterans are very limited. Realistically, expect to pay some tuition costs unless you secure a full scholarship or grant.

Affordable online Ph.D. programs do exist but require diligent research. Seeking aid and evaluating total costs are key steps for remote doctoral students.

Finding an affordable online Ph.D. is possible with research and utilizing all financial aid opportunities available. Being flexible about the school and program can also help you find the best value.

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Getting a Ph.D. doesn’t always have to be a time-consuming and complex project. If you already have experience in the field, you can shorten the process and get a Ph.D. in just a couple of years. Instead of spending four to seven years completing your studies, you can achieve your Ph.D. goals quickly and begin reaping the benefits.

Not all Ph.D. programs are created equal. Their duration depends on several factors, including the specialization. It may be impossible to speed up some of the program’s aspects but still spend months writing your dissertation.

You can start your journey to getting a degree by exploring accelerated Ph.D. programs online. Let’s take a closer look at options that can suit your goals.

When it comes to selecting a fast Ph.D. program online, keep in mind that anything related to math, science, or medicine is never fast. However, some degrees don’t require as much in-depth study and practice. They are:

• Education – some education doctoral programs may have more flexible requirements and shorter completion times.
• Social Sciences – certain subfields within social sciences, such as sociology or psychology, may have relatively easier admission processes and less competitive programs.
• Business Administration – while a Ph.D. in Business Administration requires dedication, some programs may have more structured curricula and shorter completion times.
• Humanities – history, or philosophy may offer Ph.D. programs that with be easier to complete within just a few years.
• Applied Sciences – certain applied sciences, such as environmental science or public health, may have Ph.D. programs that focus on practical research. They may take less time than other disciplines.

Even the easiest and fastest Ph.D. online requires time and dedication from your side. Some of the accelerated programs are designed to pack five years’ worth of knowledge into three years of studies. This means that you would have to forgo many of your current commitments to accommodate a hectic education process.

What Affects the Duration of a Ph.D. Program?

Besides the field of study, the following factors can affect the duration of your Ph.D. program:

Even the easiest Ph.D. program online could take more time than you expect because of the complexity of the research topic you choose. When making this choice, make sure to speak to your advisors, mentors, and peers about their experience.

Check how much data collection and fieldwork your topic requires.  You could find that your accelerated online Ph.D. program turns into five years of research.

Some online universities have strict program requirements that demand a specific amount of time to complete. Meanwhile, other schools offer more flexibility. When budgeting your time and planning out your studies, pay special attention to the structure. In some cases, you could find opportunities to shorten the program. In others, the framework may not allow you to do so.

Studies show that the time to complete even the fastest Ph.D. online is a combination of funding conditions, publishing during the program, and associated time strategy. Ph.D. funding usually increases the time it takes to complete your studies. If you decide to publish while completing your Ph.D., it can decrease the completion time.

If you have sufficient research funding and decide to publish, you are likely to earn your degree faster. However, unfunded students with high research productivity usually study longer.

Even if you decide to study online, you must receive adequate advisor and research support. Pay special attention to this factor when choosing the program. You can find out how it works at the university of your choice by speaking to the admissions committee or finding reviews from the alumni.

If you can receive regular guidance with quality feedback, you are likely to speed up your education process. In schools where students don’t get dedicated mentor hours regularly, the time to complete the Ph.D. program increases.

Also check what research facilities the school is ready to provide for offline studies (yes, some online programs may require you to visit the campus anyway). Lack of access to proper facilities and materials always slows the studies down.

No matter how hard you prepare for the Ph.D. program, personal circumstances get in the way. Many people find that they can’t juggle their personal and professional commitments with studies as well as they planned. This causes significant delays.

Meanwhile, you should always be thinking about the possibility of unexpected personal circumstances. Thankfully, the majority of easy online Ph.D. programs readily accommodate these needs. They demand that Ph.D. studies be finished within a certain amount of time. However, this time is usually long – around seven or eight years.

Some of the easiest Ph.D. programs online still have strict publication requirements. You can find out that the program requires you to publish your research findings in academic journals or present them at conferences before completion.

This particular program requirement can slow the studies down, especially if the research process is complex.

Overall, it can take between three and seven years to earn your doctorate. No matter how easy or fast the program may seem at first, multiple factors can slow it down. Thankfully, the majority of these factors are known beforehand. It’s up to you to do the research and plan your time.

What Affects the Complexity of a Ph.D. Program?

Even the fastest Ph.D. program online may not be easy. When rushing to earn your degree, you need to pay special attention to the program itself. It may be extremely hard to handle. Factors to consider include:

The interdisciplinary nature of your program can make it complex. If you need to study several fields at once or conduct interdisciplinary research, you may need to make more effort to complete the program. If you haven’t faced such research before, you could need extra time to study. Several methodologies and additional terminology can easily present a challenge.

If your research project requires an in-depth understanding of complex theoretical frameworks, it could slow you down. You would need to master these frameworks and learn how to apply them.

Even the easiest fields of study require extensive data collection. Data collection methods could be complex and time-consuming. For example, if you need to conduct a survey or arrange fieldwork, you would need to make an extra effort outside your study hours.

You may also need to master complex analysis techniques and learn how to leverage advanced software.

If your program requires collaborating with multiple researchers or institutions, you may run into collaboration issues that could increase the complexity of your studies. Projects that bring many people and facilities together always have some time of communication issues that slow down the collaboration process.

Besides simplicity and duration, you need to pay attention to other aspects of online programs including:

• Accreditation – the program you choose must be accredited by an accredited body that employers in your niche recognize.
• Structure – the program should have a structure that allows for accelerated learning.
• Research focus – the program should align with your research goals. This can help you speed up the learning process.
• Support – a program should provide adequate support from the faculty and facilities.
• Credit transfer policies – find out if the program allows you to transfer credits from previous degrees in order to shorten the education process.
• Flexibility – make sure the program is flexible enough to help you keep personal and professional commitments.
• Reputation – take the time to read reviews, talk to alumni, and do online research to assess the university’s reputation.

While the program can be easy and short, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is cheap. Some students believe that online programs are less expensive than offline learning. This is usually not the case. Learn about the cost of the program and explore financial aid opportunities before making the final choice.

Top Easiest and Fastest Ph.D. Programs Online

These programs offer you an opportunity to finish your doctorate studies faster than others. They also have easier curricula than similar programs in other universities.

Chatham University offers several Ph.D. programs in an online format. They can be completed in just 16 months or four terms. These programs include:

• Doctor of Occupational Therapy
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Admissions requirements for these programs may vary, but you would have to provide official transcripts, a resume, and an admissions essay for both of them.

The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Maryville University offers several online Ph.D. programs that you can complete in less than two years. They are:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy
• Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

It’s possible to complete these programs within just 20 months, depending on your time constraints. The school offers convenient financial aid options that can help you pay for the doctorate program.

The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Arizona State University offers strong online degree programs in behavioral health. You can choose one of the two specializations.

• Online Doctor of Behavioral Health – Management
• Online Doctor of Behavioral Health – Clinical

Admissions requirements for these programs include official transcripts from all previously attended places of study, one letter of recommendation, and a CV or resume. The total number of class hours required by this program is 135.

The College of St. Scholastica focuses on online and hybrid learning . Ph.D. programs include:

• Doctorate in Educational Leadership
• Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT)
• Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy

These programs take between two and four years to complete. The admissions requirements vary from program to program. Official transcripts from all previous places of education are necessary for all programs. The school allows you to transfer credits.

The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University offers a wide range of Ph.D. programs online . Many of them take less than 3 years to complete. These doctorate programs include:

• Doctor of Education
• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Doctor of Psychology in Behavioral Health Leadership
• Doctor of Social Work

The school also offers a wide variety of degree acceleration options, including transfer of credits, credit by work experience, and credit by examination. You may be able to complete some of these programs in less than 24 months.

Accelerating Your Ph.D. Studies

Getting a Ph.D. doesn’t have to be a lengthy process. If you have all the information necessary to speed up your education, you can obtain a degree in just one year. Speeding up the process doesn’t mean giving up on the quality of studies. Many accredited and renowned universities are offering fast and easy Ph.D. programs online. They can also help with acceleration opportunities.

If you are ready to get a degree but worry about the time it takes, consider programs that don’t require long years of study. The benefits of short online programs can be just as significant as the advantages of full-time offline learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

The shortest Ph.D. programs take around two years to complete. You can speed up the process even further by transferring credits or asking the school to accept relevant work experience as study credits.

Yes, many universities offer opportunities to complete a Ph.D. program in just two years. Some of these programs are available in a fully online or hybrid format.

A fast Ph.D. program doesn’t lack quality. While some specializations and research topics don’t demand significant time investments, they can be just as beneficial as programs that may take over five years to complete.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

2024 Easiest PhD Programs to Get Online [Guide]

If you’ve always wanted to put the title of “Doctor” in front of your name, then you might be curious about the easiest PhD to get. While all PhD studies require hard work, you may find some programs easier than others.

Surveying the landscape of available programs can give you an idea of which degree would be most suitable for your interests, availability, and academic skills.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Then, you can settle on the PhD program that not only will be easiest for you but could also contribute to achieving your goals.

Universities Offering Easiest Online PhD Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer PhD programs online or in a hybrid format with no dissertation, no residency requirement, no GRE or GMAT requirement, less math and science required, or accelerated programs.

Adams State University

Adams State University offers a PhD Counselor Education and Supervision. The low-residency program requires campus visits over the course of 4 summers. Cohorts begin each fall and follow a semester schedule.GRE or GMAT scores are not required. Adams State prefers 2 years of counseling experience for applicants.

Adams State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Amridge University

A PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies can be earned online through Amridge University. Courses are 8 to 14 weeks long. There are no residency requirements. On average, the 51 required credits may be completed in 4 years.

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

Capella University

Capella University offers several PhD programs, including Psychology, Education, Business Management, and Behavior Analysis. Most programs require a dissertation or capstone project. Capella does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Some programs require short residencies or field experiences. Courses are 10 weeks long.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University

A PhD in Music Therapy can be earned through Colorado State University. The program is in an accelerated format and may be completed in as little as 3 to 5 years. All courses are online and there are no residency requirements. The program does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

Colorado State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University – Chicago offers a PhD in Leadership with an emphasis in Sports Leadership through its fully online program. Most courses are 8 weeks long, and dissertation and research courses are a full semester. On average, the program requirements may be completed in 3 years.

Concordia University – Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

East Carolina University

A PhD in Nursing is available through East Carolina University. All coursework is fully online. The low-residency program requires campus visits for immersive experiences for the first 2 years. GRE or GMAT scores are not required to apply. The program offers concentrations in Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership.

East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Faulkner University

Faulkner University offers 3 online PhD programs, including Health Sciences, Humanities, and Biblical Studies. A dissertation is required and the program may allow presentation through a virtual meeting. Faulkner does not require applicants to submit GRE or GMAT scores. On average, the program may be completed in18 months.

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

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers multiple PhD programs. All programs are a PhD in General Psychology with emphases like Performance Psychology, Cognition and Instruction, and Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Most programs have low residency requirements and require sessions of 3 to 5 days on campus. Test scores may not be required.

GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Hampton University

Hampton University offers 4 online PhD programs, including Business Administration, Nursing, Counselor Education and Supervision, and Education Management. Some programs are in a hybrid format and require short residencies during the summers. Applicants are not required to submit GMAT or GRE scores. There are start dates in the fall, spring, and summer.

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

Indiana State University

A PhD in Educational Administration with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership is offered through Indiana State University. The program requires 45 coursework hours and 15 dissertation hours. The program requires residencies during the summer. The required coursework can typically be completed in 5 semesters.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Johnson University

Johnson University offers a PhD in Leadership Studies. The program is designed for those who want to further their careers. There are various concentrations, including Educational Leadership, Ministry Leadership, and Theology of Leadership. The program is online with start dates in the fall or spring semesters.

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

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a wide selection of online PhD programs. Many programs are fully online with some requiring short campus residencies for intensives. Courses are 8 weeks long, and there are 8 convenient start dates each year. Programs include Aviation, Organization and Management, Strategic Media, Bible Exposition, and Criminal Justice.

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

National University

A PhD can be earned online through National University. While most programs are fully online, some require short residencies or internships. Courses are 4 weeks long, and there are several start dates throughout the year. National’s PhD programs include Business Administration, Technology Management, Human Resource Management, and Marriage and Family Therapy.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Regent University

Regent University offers the opportunity to earn a PhD in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Entrepreneurial Leadership. The program is fully online and does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Courses are taught through a Christian worldview and include Kingdom Business Leadership Strategies. The program requires 60 credits.

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

Trident University International

Trident University International offers a PhD in Educational Leadership. The program is fully online. Various concentrations are available including Educational Technology and Teaching, Learning, and Development. Courses are 12 weeks long and are offered during the fall, winter, spring, and summer. The program may allow credit for prior experience.

Trident University International is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers 3 online PhD programs including Organizational Development and Leadership, Education, and Human Services. All residencies are virtual. Courses are asynchronous. Most doctoral courses are 6 weeks long, while capstone courses are 9 weeks. UAGC does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of Florida

The University of Florida offers multiple online PhD programs including Classical Civilization and Latin & Roman Studies. The programs are designed with flexible schedules and special sessions during breaks. Courses are online with aPhDresidency during the summer. The program requires 60 credits.

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Missouri – Columbia

The University of Missouri – Columbia offers a PhD in Human Environmental Sciences with an emphasis in Architectural Studies. The program is fully online with no required residencies. UM offers an optional on-campus workshop during the summer. Courses follow a semester schedule. The program can typically be completed in 5 years.

The University of Missouri – Columbia is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Tennessee – Knoxville

A PhD in Educational Psychology and Research with a concentration in Adult & Continuing Education is available through the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. The program is fully online. Courses follow a semester schedule with fall and spring start dates. Test scores are not required to apply.

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University offers several PhD programs online, including Counselor Education & Supervision, Criminal Justice, and Health Education & Promotion. Most programs are fully online and some require short residencies. The school offers course-based and self-paced programs with several yearly start dates.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

What Is the Easiest PhD to Get?

You can expect every PhD program to be rigorous and challenging. Even still, there may be some programs that you’d find easier than others.

Because people have unique aptitudes and interests, everyone’s definition of “easy” is a bit different. Despite that, the following characteristics are often associated with easier PhD programs:

• Asynchronous online classes
• Fast-track course format—often involving 8 week classes
• Fewer in-person campus visits required
• Fewer science and mathematics classes
• No dissertation required
• Opportunity to transfer in multiple credits
• Shorter overall length

The following programs are often listed among the easiest and fastest PhD programs online. Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

PhD in Business Administration

Phd in counseling, phd in criminal justice, phd in education, phd in human services, phd in public administration, phd in public health, phd in public policy, phd in psychology, phd in theology.

Exploring your options may help you determine which academic path is right for you.

For a business PhD, you may take classes in econometrics, information systems, decision-making, innovation, and statistics.

There are often many concentration options available, including finance, organizational leadership, marketing, and management. Your focus area will largely determine what classes you take. A business-related PhD will address theories of effective business practices and leadership.

This degree could help prepare you to teach business courses or spearhead research in management and operations. Having a business PhD could also equip you to take a lead role in your organization, such as becoming a chief executive.

Topics addressed in counseling PhD programs often include counseling techniques, personality theories, human development, and mental disorders. The classes may also teach you about developing and evaluating programs.

You may gain practical experience in a real-world counseling setting. Some students who get this degree opt for a concentration in counselor supervision. That track would prepare you to help future psychology students gain the education and experience they’ll need.

With this degree, you might teach psychology classes or become a licensed counseling psychologist who works with patients.

As a student in a criminal justice PhD program, you will study criminology and victimology. The classes may teach you about terrorism, intelligence, and security. It’s possible you will learn about new developments in forensics. You’ll also spend time thinking about policies and practices for preventing crime and rehabilitating offenders.

Having this degree would qualify you to teach criminal justice to college students, but there are also many practitioner paths you could take with it. The options might include policymaking, criminal profiling and investigations, and military leadership.

PhD students in education programs often study learning theories and educational technology. If you enroll in this program, you may also discuss issues facing modern schools and consider solutions.

Many education PhDs focus on curriculum and instruction. Students study the best ways to help learners acquire and retain new information. Within that discipline, there may be a variety of concentrations available, such as early childhood and literacy.

PhD holders may be leaders in school districts and state boards of education. Being a college professor who trains future educators is another potential option.

As a student in a human services program, you are likely to study social issues and potential solutions. Possible topics include mental health, crime, disaster management, and aging populations.

In addition, you may gain practical skills related to the responsibilities involved in leading human services organizations. For example, you might study grant writing, needs assessment, and program implementation.

With a human services PhD, you may become a researcher or a policymaker who considers ways to address social issues. You could also lead community organizations designed for meeting people’s needs.

The courses in a public administration PhD program often cover organizational theories, policymaking procedures, management techniques, and program leadership. You might also study economics, finance, human resources, decision-making, and strategic planning.

Some PhD programs include joint studies in both public administration and public policy. Learning about public administration at the doctoral level might help prepare you to lead government or nonprofit organizations. It could also be useful for anyone interested in directing public policy, conducting policy-related research, teaching public administration courses, or working in a legislative capacity.

Doctoral candidates in public health learn about biostatistics and epidemiology. It’s also helpful to understand factors that influence people’s health, such as genetics, environment, and human behavior.

If you get a PhD in Public Health, you may study grant writing, health ethics, and the structure of the healthcare system as well. This PhD could be useful for anyone who wants to be involved in research and development for public health policies. The degree could also lead to a career as a public health professor or the leader of a healthcare organization.

Advanced study in public policy requires learning about economics, political science, sociology, and statistics. You’ll also practice both quantitative and qualitative analysis.

Your curriculum may include classes in modern social justice issues, nonprofit leadership, policy ethics, and international development. The degree may allow you to specialize in a certain area of public policy. Examples include education, healthcare, poverty, and energy.

Public policy PhD holders know how to conduct critical analyses that can influence policy development. As researchers or educators, they may work in university, government, or NGO settings.

The curriculum for your PhD in Psychology might include classes in psychological testing, human development, cognitive processes, change management, and survey methods.

You may also learn how to teach psychology concepts to students and provide valuable consulting services to organizations. As a student in psychology, you might choose a concentration area. Ideas include health psychology, developmental psychology, educational psychology, and community psychology.

People with PhDs in Psychology often work as professors, social science researchers, or consultants. They might also qualify to become licensed to work in private practice or other healthcare settings as clinical or counseling psychologists.

For a degree in theology, students may learn about religious traditions, sacred texts, belief systems, and ethical teachings. Theology degrees are often offered by religious universities, and most focus on the teachings and practices of the Christian tradition.

To earn this PhD, you might be required to become proficient in one or more languages. Common examples are Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. French and German may be options too. Graduates may become theology or religion professors in the US or overseas. Alternatively, they may become authors or ministry leaders.

Easy PhD Programs Admissions Requirements

Even if you are selecting one of the easiest or shortest PhD programs, you’ll still go through an extensive application process. A few common requirements are listed below:

• Goal statement to let the school know about your research interests and career plans
• Official transcripts from all colleges you’ve attended
• Recommendation letters
• GRE or GMAT test scores (not required at all schools)

Many PhD programs require you to hold a master’s degree before applying.

Easiest PhD Programs Accreditation

When you’re searching for the easiest doctoral degree, you may come across some unaccredited universities that promise easy PhDs. While their programs may be tempting, it’s advantageous to focus your attention only on accredited schools. Even when hoping for an easy degree, you don’t want to compromise on quality.

Regionally accredited colleges have shown themselves to be quality institutions where you’ll receive a credible education. The credits often transfer between schools, and the degrees they confer earn employers’ respect.

Should I Get a PhD?

If you want to be a college instructor, then getting a PhD would certainly be an asset. The academia-focused PhD degree is often a strategic choice for aspiring university-level educators.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that postsecondary instructors earn a median of $79,640 annually. A PhD is a large commitment, though. Even if you choose one of the easiest programs, you’ll dedicate significant time and effort to this undertaking. It can help to be a person who thoroughly enjoys school, particularly the research and writing aspects.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD?

Not all PhD programs require a masters degree as part of the admissions process. Some regularly admit students straight from undergraduate programs. Whether you’ll be able to find PhD programs like that will likely depend on your field of study.

Keep in mind that master’s degrees prepare students for graduate-level research. If you haven’t previously earned a graduate degree, then you may be required to take some foundational classes near the beginning of your PhD program.

What Can You Do with a PhD?

People with PhDs often become educators at the college level. Working as a higher education administrator is a similar line of work for people with PhDs to consider. Other graduates become scientific researchers. Examples include medical scientists, information research scientists, sociologists, and economists.

A PhD may qualify someone to head up research projects. Some people with PhDs work as practitioners in their field. For example, some PhD professionals work as business executives or clinical psychologists, depending on their field.

Can You Get a PhD Online?

Yes, many students earn their PhDs online! Programs offered online are often considered among the easiest PhDs to get because of their flexible nature. They don’t require relocating to a college campus or attending classes at set times. Rather, you can fit online studies into your regular life.

Some PhD programs ask online students to come to campus occasionally. You may be required to attend a week-long intensive session or meet with your faculty advisor. Other programs are fully online, and you can even defend your dissertation through the computer.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD Online?

In general, 3 to 5 years is a pretty common timeframe for earning a PhD. Usually, programs involve a couple of years of classes followed by several years of dissertation work.

If you can complete your dissertation quickly—or if your program doesn’t require a dissertation—you can graduate sooner. Many no-dissertation online PhD programs can be completed in 3 years or less. In some fields, you may even find the option for a 12-month or 18-month doctorate without dissertation.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

There’s a wide range of typical costs for PhD programs, but many schools charge between $600 and $1,000 per credit hour.

The number of credit hours required will depend not only on how many classes you’re required to take but also on how long you spend working on your dissertation. For a less expensive degree, you could focus your school search on in-state public universities. You might be able to receive a resident rate of just $300 to $400 per credit hour.

Are There 1 Year Online Doctoral Programs?

It may be possible for you to earn a doctorate in close to 1 year. Most PhD programs take 3 years or more, but there are exceptions. To finish school in 1 year, it’d be necessary to pick the easiest PhD without dissertation.

Writing a dissertation can take several years, but not all doctoral degrees require this major project. For 1 year online doctoral programs , you’ll likely want a program with year-round coursework offered in an accelerated format. For example, you may be able to complete each course in just 1 month or 2 months.

What’s the Difference Between a Doctorate vs. PhD Degree?

There are different types of doctoral degrees, including professional doctorates and PhDs. Consider which is best for you.

Many students can finish professional doctorates more quickly than PhDs—often 1 year or 2 years faster.

Getting Your PhD Degree Online

Your future plans may include earning one of the easiest doctorate degrees. Getting a PhD could enhance your life and career in many ways. You may feel personally fulfilled after achieving this goal, and it might help you secure your dream career as well.

How many PhD programs should you apply to ? To ensure that you have sufficient time to create well-crafted applications for each university, it is generally advised by experts to consider applying to a range of 4 to 6 PhD programs.

If you choose an easier PhD program, doctoral studies may not take over your life. Rather, you might be able to quickly complete school while also balancing your personal responsibilities. Getting your PhD online could really help with that.

With online PhD studies, you can earn your degree from anywhere. What could you get a PhD in ? You could start exploring accredited universities with easy PhD programs today!

The 15 Most Affordable Online Doctorate Programs

Find your perfect school.

Finding the most affordable online doctorate programs may not be easy, but we are here to help! At one time, pursuing a doctorate while working full time was practically an impossibility. That’s no longer the case; with the continued progression of technology, it becomes easier and more affordable to attain a degree without ever having to step foot in a classroom.

According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics, investing in a doctorate is financially rewarding, as on average someone with a doctoral degree earns $2,513 more per month than someone with a bachelor’s degree and $1,473 more than someone with a master’s degree.

Statistically, those with doctorates also have the lowest rate of unemployment , 2.5% – compared to 4.1% of those with master’s degrees and 5.5% of those with bachelor’s degrees.

METHODOLOGY

Let us help you find the most affordable doctorate school program that fits your educational requirements for starting a new career, a job promotion, or simply meeting your personal goals. Our researchers at PremiumSchools.org utilize these indicators of excellent academic standards to locate exceptional doctoral degree programs designed just for you, and… your wallet.

The following schools are listed in random order. As every school displays its unique qualities and strengths, you should search our list based on your needs, career aspirations, and affordability.

The following factors were considered: 

• Offers online classes for flexible or convenient attendance without compromising hands-on training,
• Exhibits rigorous, yet engaging and innovative training in doctorate coursework that takes into account the readiness of students to take the next step in their budding careers,
• Taught by outstanding faculty consisting of experts experienced at the doctoral level,
• Held in high esteem among academic agencies, industry organizations, and journalistic resources,
• Displays stellar reviews and feedback from school alumni and students,
• Offers a convenient application process,
• Provides exceptional Student Career Centers, Resource Departments, and easy-to-use Learning Management Systems, where applicable, 
• Permits a wide range of scholarships, grants, and other financial support programs for eligible students,
• Ensures the proper Accreditation in accordance with academic standards.

If you would like to learn more about our selection process, feel free to see our Methodology page! 

Please note that the below-mentioned tuition costs are approximate at the time of this publishing, for they may differ from program to program. Please check school websites for the most up-to-date pricing information.

15 MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAMS

American college of education.

Online Doctorate in Education

Incorporated in 2005, the American College of Education was established with the goal of providing high-quality, affordable, and accessible online programs. American College of Education is a B Corporation and a Dallas-based ACE Holdco PBC subsidiary.

ACE currently offers an extremely rigorous and demanding 64 credits Doctorate of Education in Leadership program with nine separate concentrations for students to choose from, including International Education, Instructional Leadership, Online Education, STEM Leadership, Higher Education, and Early Childhood Education.

You can achieve your EdD faster if you have a master’s degree from ACE or an EdS or All But Dissertation (ABD) from another university. If you ever need assistance or guidance, you can easily reach out to professors and mentors as they are attentive and supportive of your success. 

Tuition is very affordable at $306 per credit.

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs in Education at the American College of Education ’s website .

Did You Know?

ACE is well-known for its annual Alumni Achievement Award, which includes travel expenses of up to $1,000 to and from commencement, an Alumni Achievement Award plaque, a speech during commencement, and publicity through a media release.

Montana State University

BSN to DNP Degree in Various Options

Montana State University was originally founded in 1873 as the Agricultural College of the State of Montana; 144 years later, MSU is the state’s largest university, having a student population of over 15,000 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1. 

Montana State University currently offers online Doctorate in Nursing Practice programs, specifically a BSN to DNP in Family/Individual, a BSN to DNP in Psych/Mental Health, and an MN to DNP. The DNP degree, which was founded in 2013, will prepare you for advanced practice nursing by providing you with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to deliver clinical expertise, judgment, scholarship, and leadership at the highest level of nursing practice in primary health care settings.

You will be guided through the clinical elements by certified and experienced advanced practice registered nurse instructors and preceptors. You will direct your DNP academic projects in collaboration with doctorate teachers nationally known for their breadth and depth of knowledge. 

The college provides educational preparation and exciting opportunity to practice in Montana’s rural and frontier locations. Graduates will be qualified for national APRN certification as well as population-specific licensing

Tuition includes $2,783 per semester for residents, or $8,844 per semester for non-residents.

• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Would you like more info about the Affordable Online BSN to DNP Programs? Take a look at MSU’s website !

MSU’s fraternity and sorority system dates back 102 years. Until the 1980s, all Montana State University first-year students were given green beanies during the first week of orientation. Freshmen were required to wear the beanies during the first week of class to show their status as new enrollees. Anybody caught without a beanie would be placed in stocks in the middle of campus.

William Howard Taft University

Doctor of Education (Ed.D) Programs Online

William Howard Taft University originally began by offering continuing education programs to certified public accountants in 1976.  Since then, the school has become a specialized institution of distance education. 

The university currently offers online programs for a Doctorate of Education with three available concentrations; Leadership & Administration, Educational Technology, and Charter School Administration. Each concentration has a total of 60 credits, which students need to attain to graduate with an EdD from the University.

Before proceeding to the Core Courses, you should complete all Qualifying Courses and the Qualifying Examination. Before moving to the Dissertation/ADP Phase, you should complete all Core Courses and the Comprehensive Examination.

The program offers two modalities to its students; Independent Study and Directed Study. This option will allow you to transition from work to study efficiently. If you choose an Independent Study, you can begin the program on any six start dates throughout the year. If you choose the latter, you can start your studies on one of three different dates each year. Visit the Academic Calendar to learn more about the start dates. 

Tuition is $360 per credit.

Accreditation : 

• Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)

Are you interested in career advancement? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs at William Howard Taft University’s website.

William Howard Taft University was named after the 27th US President, William Howard Taft. Taft was the first president to throw out the first pitch of the baseball season, starting a tradition that is still going on today. The Washington Senators faced the Philadelphia Athletics in a game in 1910. The Senators triumphed 3-0.

Valdosta State University

Online Doctorate Degrees in Education and Public Administration

Valdosta State University originally began as South Georgia State Normal College. The school has come a long way since its opening in 1913, from a college for women – with offerings in a two-year course in teacher preparation – to a flourishing university with over 11,000 students, which is part of the University System of Georgia.

Valdosta currently offers three 54-55 credit programs at the Doctoral level: A Doctorate of Education in Curriculum and instruction: Learning and Development, a Doctorate of Education in Leadership, and a Doctorate of Public Administration. 

You will benefit from their high-quality instructors, who have real-world experience and knowledge through years of learning, researching, and working in their respective fields. The recommended Ed.D. The course sequence will allow you to complete the program’s course requirements in 24-30 months. However, you should note that all Doctorate programs in the university only accept regular students.

eTuition is $293 per credit hour.

Accreditation: 

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033 404.679.450

Valdosta has several doctoral options – Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Education Programs at Valdosta State University.

Valdosta State University was known as Georgia State Women’s College, an all-girls school. In 1950, it became coeducational, and the name was changed to Valdosta State University.

University of West Georgia

Online Doctorate of Education with Concentrations in Professional Counseling & Supervision, School Improvement & Nursing

The University of West Georgia originally began as an agricultural and mechanical university, established in response to a call for “more realistic educational programs for rural youth.” Today, UWG has a student population of over 12,000 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1.

The University of West Georgia offers five online Doctorate of Education programs, with majors in Higher Education Administration,  Psychology: Consciousness and Society, Professional Counseling and Supervision, School Improvement, and Nursing Education. All three programs contain 60 credits and are designed to be completed in two to three years, depending on how many courses you enroll in each term.

Courses in each degree track are offered entirely online in an asynchronous fashion; however, you must attend a two-day on-campus orientation before beginning your first semester. You will also need to visit the campus to defend your dissertation.

Tuition begins at $241 per credit hour.

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Learn more about the Affordable Online Educational Doctorate Programs at the University of West Georgia ’s website.

Until the fall of 1965, no African-American students were admitted to the college. A teacher at Carver High Institution (a segregated school), Jeff Long, urged students to apply for admission to West Georgia in 1955 and 1956. Every senior applied, and every kid was turned down because of their color. Dr. Beheruz N. Sethna (President of UWG from 1994 to 2013) apologized to the Carver class of 1955 in 2002. A scholarship fund was established for the children of Carver students who were denied entrance.

Delta State University

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program with Four Options

Located in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University was established in 1925. Its staff at the time consisted of a president, business manager, dietitian, and nine teachers, and its first graduating class had only 13 students. Today, DSU has over 3,000 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1.

Delta State University currently offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice program with four program options: 69 credits RN-DNP, BSN-DNP, 69 credits Post Master’s (Non-FNP) DNP, 31 credits Post Master’s (FNP) DNP – which vary in completion time from a year and a half to four and a half years. The program was created by the Robert E. Smith School of N u rsing , which has stable national rankings and a tremendous track record of producing high-paying practitioners.

Non-FNP totals 1,020 clinical hours plus 420 scholarly project hours, while FNP scholarly project clinical hours are only 420. However, students with a master’s degree will not be required to complete as many clinical hours as students in other pathways. Furthermore, part-time options are offered for all tracks to assist students with demanding work or family responsibilities. Students will, nevertheless, need to plan several on-campus trips each semester.

Tuition for graduate programs, part-time is $442 per hour.

Are you looking to advance in your nursing career? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs in Nursing at Delta State University.

Delta State is well-known for its school mascot, the Fighting Okra, and you don’t see that every day. The Fighting Okra is Delta State University’s unofficial mascot and an urban legend. It emerges on campus during unexpected times, mostly to annoy students and athletes.

Walden University

Online Doctoral Degree Programs with Many Areas of Study

Founded in 1970, Walden University now has over 60 online degree programs and over 300 specialties and concentrations. Walden lets students attain the worthwhile aims that underpin its motto: “A higher degree. A higher purpose.” With the mission of providing opportunities for adults in the workforce to pursue doctoral degrees, Walden University is now a fully accredited university that offers online courses at all degree levels. 

Walden has 25 online doctoral programs with over 150 specializations in nine different areas of study: Business Management, Criminal Justice, Social Work and human Services, Education, Nursing, Psychology and Counseling, Public Health and Health Sciences, and Public Policy and Administration.

All program allows up to 45 credits for transfer for a faster completion time of two to three years, with widely accessible online resources. Furthermore, new students can connect with an experienced Ph.D. student who can offer advice, recommendations, and direction.

Tuition costs vary widely, depending on your chosen area of study.

With 25 online doctoral programs, how can you go wrong? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs at Walden University .

More than 90% of Walden University’s academic members hold doctorates. State teachers of the year, competitive award winners, Fulbright scholars and specialists, and present and past board members for professional and humanitarian organizations are among Walden’s staff.

Governors State University

Doctorate of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership Distance Learning Degree Program

Founded in 1969, Governors State University and its 750-acre campus are located just 30 miles south of Chicago, Illinois. The University currently has a student population of around 6,000 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1.

Governor State University offers a 60-hour online Doctorate of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership program, with 33 of those 60 hours spent in one of four unique concentrations: Higher Education Administration, Superintendent (P-12), and Not for Profit/ Social Entrepreneurship Leadership.

This curriculum will prepare you for leadership positions in academic and educational institutions such as K-12 schools, colleges and universities, post-baccalaureate training programs, school districts, education non-profits, and government agencies.

You’ll focus on skills and themes such as organizational leadership, educational program assessment, fostering diversity in academic settings, conducting scholarly research, and leveraging research findings to improve educational outcomes.

Tuition is $477 per credit hour for residents.

Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership Program at Governors State University.

When others only talk about environmental sustainability, this university likes to set an example for its students, which is why it operates one of the state’s largest solar-powered systems. They’ve also installed a wind turbine. Students not only graduate from college with book knowledge but also with practical experience.

Oakland City University

Online Doctor of Education Degree Program with Three Specializations

Oakland City College was founded in 1885 but didn’t officially open its doors to students until 1891. OCU is the only university in the country to be linked with the General Baptist Church. Since achieving University status in 1995, OCU has grown to have an enrollment of over 1,400 students, while keeping the student-to-faculty at a low ratio of 12:1.

Oakland City University’s online Doctor of Education program consists of at least 60 credit hours, not including the obligatory 30 credit hour master’s degree. However, other graduate-level work may be given additional credit. The doctorate program offers three specializations: Superintendency, Curriculum and Instruction, and Organizational Management. Students in the program participate through Cohort Groups that are established each academic year and contain no more than 16 students.  

Each specialization is a terminal degree that requires students to go through rigorous research, analysis, implementation, and site-based practice procedures. In addition to completing coursework, you have to do an intensive internship incorporating an action research study, a cultural diversity project, and a capstone paper/project.

Tuition is $450 per credit hour.

Are you ready to take your career to the next level? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs at Oakland City University .

The magnificent Verdin custom-constructed 50′ clock and bell tower that greets you as you enter the school is dedicated to the passing of Jerry Phillips, Class of 1959, and professor from 1963 until retirement in 2001.  Furthermore, the clock represents the minutes and hours of faculty and staff service, reminding them of the passage of time as they pass by. The bells should remind everyone to examine the quality of their obedience and count their minutes through honesty, fairness, and loving kindness. Talk about traditions!

National University

Ten Online Doctorate Degree Options

National University was founded in 1996 to build upon the education foundations pioneered by the world’s brick-and-mortar universities while using the Internet to offer a new form of quality education. 

NU currently offers 23 online doctorate programs, including Doctor of Education, Doctor of Business Administration, and Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. National University takes a unique approach to the idea of student-teacher mentors. Students are partnered with one faculty member for each course, creating a class size of one and ensuring that students have a more personalized learning experience.

The one-on-one format is convenient, and personal attention is ideal for expanding your knowledge and getting higher degrees while working full- or part-time. However, do not expect to be spoon-fed. You must fulfill the high criteria, or you will fail, as is the case in most other prestigious schools of higher learning.

Tuition costs vary widely, depending on the area of study.

• WASC Senior College and University Commission

Not sure which direction you want to go in? Take a look at all of the affordable Online Doctorate Programs that the National University has to offer.

National University employs only doctoral-level staff, the majority of whom have completed their program of study at a regionally authorized institution of higher learning in the discipline in which they teach or create curriculum.

University of Kansas

Online Doctor of Medicine

Originally established in 1865, the University of Kansas has grown to encompass 13 schools and 27,000 students spread across their five campuses (Lawrence, Kansas City, Overland Park, Wichita, and Salina).

The University of Kansas currently offers three of the most affordable online doctor of medicine degree programs: a Clinical Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology, a Doctor of Occupational Therapy, a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy.

Their DNP program has separate curriculums for those who have completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree or a Master of Science in Nursing degree. Aside from the online Doctor of Medicine, the university also offers a doctorate in Audiology, Education, Musical Arts, Engineering, and Doctor of Philosophy.

If you ever decide to enroll in the School of Medicine and live anywhere near Wichita and Kansas City, you can volunteer at the JayDoc Free Clinics. You’ll run clinics for non-emergency and preventative care to the city’s uninsured and underinsured populations. If you are from or near Salina, you have the opportunity to help with medical care at Ashby House, a facility for a vulnerable population.

Tuition varies per credit hour. See the University of Kansas’ website for details.

Check out these Affordable Online Doctorate Program options at KU’s website.

The University of Kansas is home to the state’s only professional pharmacy and medical schools. Furthermore, KU’s Cancer Center is the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated facility.

Washburn University

Online nursing doctoral degrees.

Washburn University was established in 1865 by members of the Congregational Church to create an institution to provide education to all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or income. WU has a student population of around 6,500 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1.

Washburn University has three online Doctor of Nursing Practice programs: BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP with APRN-NP, and MSN to DNP without APRN-NP.  DNP students receive a minimum of 1000 hours of direct patient care through preceptor-guided clinical experiences.

At the time of program enrollment, an MSN to DNP applicant who is nationally certified as a nurse practitioner may be given up to 500 clock hours toward the minimum 1000 clock hour requirement. 

Tuition begins at $682 per credit hour.

Would you like to know more about Washburn University’s affordable online Doctorate degrees in Nursing? Take a look!

Washburn’s DNP degree focuses not only on the medical aspect but also places a heavy emphasis on entrepreneurship. This is the first DNP program in the country that includes MBA courses in the curriculum. With a strong focus on entrepreneurship, you can combine advanced practice knowledge and abilities with excellent business acumen.

Johnson University

Ph.D. in Leadership Studies Online

Johnson University, founded in 1893 as the School of Evangelists, was originally established under the principle “Open day and night to the poor young man who desires above every other desire, to preach the Gospel of Christ.” Today, Johnson is a private, Christian university with a relatively small student population of only 1,171, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1.

The Ph.D. in Leadership Studies program from Johnson University can be completed entirely online and is offered with six major concentrations: Educational Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Ministry Leadership, Philosophy Leadership, Theology Leadership, and Missional Leadership.

This degree is a 60-credit hour multidisciplinary program created for working individuals who want to learn about leadership through the lenses of the individual, organization, and society.

Aside from focusing only on information exchange, the school also gives extra attention to student-student and student-teacher communication and connection, thus a cohort-based program. You will be working with other students, professors, and alumni throughout the program duration. 

Tuition is $675 per credit hour.

Learn more about the online Ph.D. in Leadership program at Johnson University.

Johnson University hosts one of the best annual Research Summit, including brief seminars led by professors and/or guest speakers and face-to-face networking with faculty and peers. These Research Summits are entirely optional, but doctoral students enrolled online can attend.

Old Dominion University

Online Doctorate Degrees in Nursing and Education

Founded in 1930, Old Dominion University was originally established as the College of William and Mary, the second oldest university in the United States (royally founded in 1693). Since earning its independence in 1962, Old Dominion has continued a steady pattern of growth, today it has a student population of 24,672 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees.

Old Dominion offers eight online doctorate degree programs, including Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Philosophy in Education. FNP, PMHNP, and Nurse-Midwifery specializations are the only specializations available for full-time students. Full-time and part-time study options are available for the other doctoral degrees.

All tracks necessitate a total of five campus visits. The full-time plans are expected to take two years to complete. Part-time programs have varying completion times. Students should expect to spend three to six hours per week on coursework per credit.

Tuition is $551 for Virginia Residents and $595 for out-of-state students.

Need more info? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctor of Nursing Practice Program at Old Dominion University.

Old Dominion University takes its name from one of Virginia’s state nicknames, “The Old Dominion,” which was bestowed upon the state by King Charles II of England in recognition of the state’s devotion to the throne during the English Civil War.

Liberty University

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Liberty University was founded in 1971. They are based in Lynchburg, VA, and have grown from 154 students to over 15,000 residential students. As a faith-based school with Christian values, they will prepare you for life, teaching you the skills you need to succeed in your career, as well as your personal life.

Liberty University offers 54 credit hours online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership degree program if you are interested in taking your career in education to the next level.You’ll learn about best teaching practices, university administration, and the historical development of the American higher education system, among other things.

Your research courses will lead to a capstone project that will promote real-world application. With a capstone project, you will conduct your own research and contribute new knowledge to the field. 

Tuition for Educational Doctoral degrees begins at $650 per credit hour.

Check out additional information about Liberty University’ s affordable Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership online degree program.

Residential students must complete 20 hours of community service per semester as part of Liberty University’s goal of servant leadership and service. As a result, they volunteer over 300,000 hours in the community and on campus each year. In addition, the university launched LU Send Now. They have already had teams assist in the aftermath of disasters such as the floods in South Carolina and tornadoes in Mississippi.

Traditional brick-and-mortar doctoral degree programs are expensive, and tuition costs are a major deterrent for most. They also appear to be unsustainable, particularly for people who work full-time. However, depending on your area of focus, many doctoral programs – especially online versions – are within reach.

Generally, you can find reasonably priced doctoral or Ph.D. programs in healthcare, education, or business-related subjects, as they are the most popular. So, don’t put off achieving your academic goals any longer, sign on today and get started earning your doctorate!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Doctoral degrees are the highest educational achievement imaginable, and only a few people hold this degree. They bring with their prospects for promotion, new opportunities, and prestige. While obtaining a doctorate often leads to increased compensation and leadership in your profession, it also necessitates a significant financial commitment. Below are the few known to be affordable online Doctorate fields:

• Business Administration
• Organizational Leadership

Finding an online Ph.D. program directly related to your profession can be difficult, but it is possible if you ask the correct questions.

Once you’ve reduced your options down to a few key players, you’ll want to take a few more steps to evaluate the program entirely—and the results you can expect. It is best to meet or speak with the program chair and ask five significant questions concerning its accrediting authenticity and the student experience.

• Are you accredited on a regional or national level? And what is the state of your accreditation?
• How easy is it to get in touch with the mentors here?
• What is it like to be an online student at this university?
• What resources will I have access to as part of this program?
• Will I be able to get help with my dissertation?

If you have any worries about the accrediting agency’s legality, check to see if it is recognized by one of two authorities: the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education . The latter features a College Navigator service that allows students to check the accreditation of any institution they are thinking about attending.

The cost of tuition for online Ph.D. programs varies. Costs are affected by various factors, including program length, available financial aid, and whether the school is private or public. Doctoral programs typically provide more financial assistance than master’s programs. According to EducationData.org , the average cost of a Ph.D. degree is $114,300. However, you can find a quality program with tuition costs of approximately $400 to $600 per credit hour. 

Many institutions provide financial aid to full-time online Ph.D. students, and there are no differences in application, requirements, or qualifications between on-campus and online programs. In general, doctoral students are eligible for student loans, assistantships, and scholarships. Furthermore, many corporations/companies assist their employees who desire to pursue a Ph.D. and help finance students’ tuition and research fees.

Interested students can apply for various scholarships to assist their studies. The six grants listed below are just a few examples of scholarships that might help students avoid debt.

Army Nurse Corps Association Scholarship

Active-duty servicemembers and veterans who worked as military nurses can apply for financial assistance of up to $3000. This scholarship is also open to military spouses and other dependents.

Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship

This scholarship is available to candidates majoring in any subject from Digital Responsibility. Scholars that are selected will get up to $1000 in financial assistance.

ACS Cancer Nursing Scholarship

The American Cancer Society provides this scholarship to Ph.D. candidates for two years at a time, with the opportunity to extend the award for another two years after the initial award period. Preferred recipients are pursuing careers as nursing scientists in cancer nursing research. Scholars can receive up to $15,000 in financial aid.

NLN Foundation for Nursing Education Scholarship

The National League for Nursing is the only membership organization in the United States that provides Ph.D. scholarships to nurse educators. The award aims to contribute to a diverse workforce of nurse educators by assisting master and doctorate students in entering the field and advancing the cause worldwide. Scholars might get up to $8000 in financial aid.

SMART Scholarship

The SMART Scholarship for Service Program, which stands for Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation, provides tuition assistance to students at all levels of study, including Ph.D. students, in one of 19 STEM-related fields of study. Recipients receive a full scholarship for tuition and fees, a health insurance allowance, and a stipend for personal costs. Furthermore, after completing their particular degree program, recipients have assured job placement with the Department of Defense (DoD). 

Ford Emerging Voices Scholarship

In collaboration with the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM), Ford Motor Company provides financing to two women pursuing a graduate degree in any area. Scholars might get up to $3000 in financial aid. However, scholarship awardees earn more than just money because AWM requires them to publish up to four blog articles for the organization’s blog.

At PremiumSchools.org, we strive to bring you the most updated information on affordable tuition program options. Check out these rankings:

• The 10 Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
• The 15 Most Affordable Master’s Degree Online Programs
• 15 Affordable Speech Pathology Graduate Programs  
• The 15 Cheapest Online Art Schools
• The 20 Fastest Ph.D. Programs

Malcolm Peralty Chief Editor

Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

Erin Treder

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Rachel Miller

Updated January 2, 2024

Danika Miller

Contributing Editor

Reviewed by

Lonnie Woods III

Contributing Reviewer

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A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is the highest level of academic degree that you can attain. Consisting primarily of research, a Ph.D. prepares you for a career in academia or research in the field you study.

Students who choose to pursue a Ph.D. online will find it can be completed in less time. Online students also get the added benefit of being able to complete their work from the comfort of home. The overall cost may also be less compared to an in-person program.

We've compiled a list of the best accredited online Ph.D. programs to help you start your search.

Are Online Ph.D. Programs Worth It?

An online Ph.D. program is an ideal choice if you want to balance your career and family responsibilities along with your education.

While there are some preconceived notions that online programs aren't legitimate, as long as the program you choose is accredited, the degree is the same as one earned in person.

While the annual tuition cost to earn a Ph.D. online averages $12,394 for a public institution and $26,621 for a private university, doctoral graduates enjoy a lower unemployment rate and higher weekly salary than those with less education, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Did You Know...

• According to the BLS , workers with a doctoral degree earned a median of $651 more per week than workers with a bachelor's degree in 2022.
• Doctorate-holders boast some of the lowest unemployment rates at 1%.
• In 2019, research found that 39.8% of graduate students were enrolled in online learning.
• The number of doctorates awarded between 2020 and 2021 dropped by 5.4%.
• Not all Ph.D.-holders end up working in academia.

Explore Our Featured Online Doctoral Programs

Top schools for online accredited ph.d. programs.

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

Capitol Technology University

• Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: In-State | $950 Out-of-State | $950

Credits to Graduate: 60

Founded in 1927, Capitol Technology University features 40 doctoral programs, which you can complete online. Majors include aeronautical science, artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, military leadership, occupation risk management, and supply chain management. 

Programs require about 60 credits, but you can choose from a doctoral degree without any research requirements. Coursework focuses on doctoral research, proposal writing, and oral defense. Capitol also offers a dual master's and Ph.D. in technology combination program. 

Admission requirements vary, but generally you need a master's degree in a related major and five years of work experience.

Clemson University

• Clemson, SC

Cost per Credit: In-State | $515-$1,319 Out-of-State | $515-$1,319

Clemson's graduate catalog features 52 doctoral programs with the flexibility to study on campus, online, or in a hybrid format. Fields like digital history, entomology, genetics, or business administration offer on-campus programs for traditional doctoral students. You have the opportunity to study virtually in nine doctoral programs, including nursing, educational leadership, and parks, recreation and tourism management.

To obtain a doctoral degree, candidates must complete approximately 60 credits over a span of 3-5 years and successfully defend their dissertation.

Keiser University

• Fort Lauderdale, FL

Total Cost: In-State | $31,712 Out-of-State | $31,712

Keiser University, which was established in 1977, offers 19 flexible doctoral degrees. You can attend classes on the 100-acre main campus or study at one of 23 satellite campuses. Programs offer evening, online, and daytime courses. Keiser's “student first” policy lets you take 1-2 classes at a time, depending on your availability. It takes about 2-5 years to earn your doctoral degree.

To apply for a doctoral program, you need to submit your master's or doctoral transcripts, a resume, personal statement, and an application with a fee.

Mississippi State University

• Mississippi State, MS

Cost per Credit: In-State | $537 Out-of-State | $1,074-$1,468

Credits to Graduate: 60-65

The public research university MSU, which began admitting students in 1880 as an Agricultural and Mechanical College, now boasts 71 doctoral degrees, including 15 virtual programs. Ph.D. programs include engineering, computer science, agricultural sciences, mathematical sciences, and educational leadership. In addition to coursework, you'll need to complete a dissertation and defense on an independent research topic.

As a doctoral candidate, you can access ample research opportunities. The Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station runs 16 stations throughout the state. Applicants need a recommended 3.4 GPA for their master's-level coursework.

Nova Southeastern University

Cost per Credit: In-State | $969-$1,386 Out-of-State | $969-$1,386

Credits to Graduate: 51-64

Nova Southeastern University, the largest private research university in Florida, boasts 14 colleges and 11 campuses. NSU offers 37 doctoral programs, with 19 of them available online. Earn a doctoral degree online in subjects such as criminal justice, computer science, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology. 

Departments such as the NSU Fischler College of Education and the School of Criminal Justice offer dissertation resources, including templates and mentor support. Each program sets distinct admission requirements, but you generally need a master's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Old Dominion University

• Norfolk, VA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $599 Out-of-State | $1,439

Credits to Graduate: 31-60 

Old Dominion University offers 10 online doctoral programs through its seven colleges and three schools. The program covers a range of subjects such as nursing, community college leadership, educational leadership, engineering management, English, instruction design and technology, and workforce and organizational development. 

Admission requirements vary across programs. For instance, the Ph.D. in business administration requires GMAT or GRE scores, while the Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction asks applicants to submit master's transcripts, an essay, and three references.

Saybrook University

• Pasadena, CA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $1,416-$1,590 Out-of-State | $1,416-$1,590

Credits to Graduate: 54-76

Offering hybrid online degrees since 1970, Saybrook University now delivers 11 online doctoral degrees. You can earn a doctoral degree completely online or in a hybrid format with a low-residency option.

Doctoral students can pursue studies in counseling, integrative social work, organizational systems, mind-body medicine, integrative and functional nutrition, psychology, and wellness. To get admitted, you need at least a master's degree. And you complete up to 76 credits over about 4-5 years.

Texas Tech University

• Lubbock, TX

Cost per Semester: In-State | $2,107-$6,877 Out-of-State | $2,107-$6,877

Credits to Graduate: 60-96

Created in 1923, Texas Tech's 13 colleges and schools offer 98 doctoral degrees. Texas Tech offers doctoral degrees in agricultural and applied economics, animal science, computer science, curriculum and instruction, and special education. 

Many of the doctoral programs, such as the Ph.D. in psychology and Ph.D. in wind science and engineering, offer STEM OPT Extension eligibility to extend your F-1 visa for up to two years. Programs require about 60 credits on average and a dissertation. Depending on the program, you may need to submit GRE scores to apply.

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.

We rank schools using factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation .

For this page, we created a directory of online accredited Ph.D. programs that meet our criteria. The list is organized alphabetically rather than ranked.

Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page .

Does Accreditation Matter for Online Ph.D. Programs?

A college is accredited after being recognized by an independent institution that verifies the school's courses and programs meet set quality standards.

The school you choose must be accredited in order for your Ph.D. to be recognized by employers , earn professional licensures, and qualify you for federal financial aid.

Legitimate accreditors are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. Cost?

In general, you can expect to pay around $13,000-$30,000 per year in tuition and fees for your online Ph.D.

Several factors affect how much your Ph.D. program will cost, including:

• Whether the program is fully funded
• Whether your school is public or private
• Whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student
• How long your program lasts (most Ph.D. programs take 5-7 years to complete)
• How much financial aid you get

While many in-person and online doctoral programs in the U.S. are fully funded, these tend to be highly competitive.

One way to save money on your online Ph.D. is to attend a program that offers in-state tuition to residents. Make sure you submit the FAFSA each year so you can secure federal financial aid .

You may also need to budget for occasional travel to and from campus and research sites, especially as you work on your dissertation.

What's the Difference Between a Ph.D. and a Doctorate?

While a Ph.D. and a doctoral degree, or doctorate, both signify the same level of education completed, their uses are different.

Doctorate is the broader term — a Ph.D. is a type of doctorate. Specifically, a Ph.D. is an academic degree that prepares you for a career in research or teaching in your field of study (such as science, English, or economics).

Besides a Ph.D., other types of doctorates include a doctor of medicine (MD), a doctor of education (Ed.D.), and a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). These degrees are typically used in either an academic or professional setting.

Online Ph.D. Programs That Don't Require a Dissertation

A dissertation is a final written project culminating in a student's original research at the end of their Ph.D. program. A dissertation is typically presented and defended by its author. It's typically required for degrees with an academic or research focus.

Not all Ph.D. programs require a dissertation. For example, some Ph.D. programs in humanities, education, business administration, and criminal justice require simple or no dissertations for a quicker completion time .

What Jobs Can You Get After Earning an Online Ph.D.?

Once you finish your online doctoral program, you can explore a variety of career paths both within and outside academia.

Many Ph.D. graduates, especially those who studied the humanities, go on to become professors. Other popular roles include administrator, scientist, and psychologist.

Graduates of online Ph.D. programs earn a relatively high average base salary of $105,000 a year, according to Payscale .

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs

• Collapse All

What is the quickest Ph.D. to get?

The quickest Ph.D. to earn are those that award professional degrees and don't require extensive research projects or dissertations at completion. These Ph.D. programs can include accounting, business, education, and media.

To finish your degree faster, you can also look for accelerated programs that quicken the pace of a program and shorten the time it takes to complete.

Are online doctoral programs legit?

If the online doctoral program is accredited, it is legitimate. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the rigorous educational standards of other comparative doctoral programs.

With accreditation, employers and other institutions of higher learning will recognize your degree. As more universities turn toward online programs to serve a more diverse student population, there are a growing number of legitimate, accredited online Ph.D. programs.

How long are online Ph.D. programs?

Online Ph.D. programs, like any other doctoral program, can vary in length but typically take 5-7 years to complete. A doctoral degree balances coursework with research. Usually, students must meet a certain number of course requirements before they can start original research.

While coursework may take only a year or two, writing a dissertation that meets the program requirements varies from candidate to candidate.

Can I earn my Ph.D. entirely online?

Yes, many accredited colleges and universities offer 100% online Ph.D. programs. That said, some programs may require on-campus experiences, such as library research and a dissertation defense.

What do employers think of online doctoral programs?

It takes a high level of discipline and persistence to obtain a graduate degree, no matter the context. Most employers will recognize and value the hard work it takes to get a Ph.D., whether you completed your doctorate online or in person.

Make sure you research potential programs. If you're attending an accredited, well-regarded school, employers will value your online Ph.D. just as much as a traditional one.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed November 20, 2023.

Popular Resources

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15 Fastest Online Ph.D. and Doctorate Degrees

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: March 11, 2024 , Reading time: 30 minutes

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Many professionals pursue doctorate degrees because of their fairly strong employment prospects ! About 70% of the 2020 new PhD holders reported “definite commitments” from prospective employers from academia and industries.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, doctorate holders earned the highest median weekly pay ($1,885) and the lowest unemployment rate (2.5%) among bachelor’s and master’s degree holders.

But we all know that the path to higher education isn’t all roses! Candidates in PhD and doctorate programs take between four and eight years to earn their degrees, and spend $114,300 on average . With the cost of attendance comes student loan debts that can reach $108,400 on average, and it can be as high as $159,625 for PhD holders .

No wonder individuals interested in enjoying the benefits of a doctorate look for the fastest programs and fields of study!

Quick audio summary:

Fastest online ph.d. and doctorate degrees, doctor of audiology.

Hearing issues have adverse effects on an individual’s quality of life and, thus, preventing and addressing these issues is crucial. This is where audiologists come in through their expertise in diagnosing, preventing, and treating hearing issues. Note that hearing issues also affect balance and, thus, audiologists empower their patients to enjoy daily activities better. 

Aside from prescribing medical devices, audiologists also provide counseling services for their patients in dealing with their hearing and balance issues. Their job also includes providing reliable and relevant information to family members, caregivers, and the community. 

Audiologists must possess a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree and a state license. The AuD degree can be earned in four years, but accelerated three-year programs are the fastest. The shortened curriculum in accelerated programs doesn’t mean lower academic quality – it just means the courses have been compressed aside from being fast-paced. Students must be 100% committed to earning the degree within the three-year timetable. 

Students progress through the foundational courses in:

• Physiology,
• Normal and Abnormal Communication Development,
• Pharmacology in Audiology,
• and Diagnosis and Treatment of Hearing and Balance Issues. 

The curriculum also includes internships in hospitals, clinics and outpatient facilities where students develop their clinical skills in healthcare settings. Students observe licensed audiologists in action and have direct patient interactions through patient consultations. The hands-on experience strengthens the theories learned in the virtual or blended classroom. 

Audiologists find gainful employment in healthcare settings and other industries. Industrial audiologists, for example, prevent hearing issues by developing safety protocols while educational audiologists work with children with hearing issues. 

Median Pay: $81,030 per year

Job Outlook: 16% 

Job Opportunities: Audiologists 

Best Schools: Western Michigan University , Salus University , and University of Cincinnati  

Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering

The typical time-to-completion among PhD in Biomedical Engineering is 5-6 years, but accelerated programs decrease it to 3-4 years. Of course, your time-to-completion will be determined by your commitment, enrolment status and compliance with the scheduled milestones. The third-year mark, for example, is typically dedicated to the completion of the dissertation, fulfillment of teaching and a research assistantship, and compliance with remaining academic requirements.

Accelerated programs are hands-on learning experiences for candidates who must be 100% committed to their post-graduate studies, including their research and teaching assistantships. Candidates progress through the fast-paced, rigorous programs of study that integrate didactic coursework with world-class independent research. Close collaborations with faculty members in faculty-led research projects are also typical, and these allow candidates to develop their interdisciplinary skills and establish professional networks.  

Admission requirements vary, but most accelerated programs require applicants to possess a master’s degree in biomedical engineering or other related fields. Minimum GRE/GMAT scores and cumulative graduate GPA are also common requirements:

• a personal statement,
• letters of reference,
• and statement of purpose.

Admission is competitive in accelerated PhD in Biomedical Engineering programs due to their above-average rigorousness, not to mention that universities benefit from a track record of high year-to-year completion rates.  

Candidates usually undergo several stages in their PhD journey, from acceptance into the program to pass the qualifying exams, making their dissertation proposals and passing the approval stage. Teaching and research assistantships are required, too, which pays for part of their tuition cost and develops their teaching and research skills. 

Holders of the PhD in Biomedical Engineering degree work in the healthcare, industrial and commercial manufacturing, engineering sectors, and academia. 

Median Pay: $106,919 per year 

Job Outlook: 6% 

Job Opportunities: Biomedical engineering director, biomedical engineering educators and researchers, and biomedical research scientists  

Best Schools: University of North Dakota and Boise State University  

Doctor of Business Administration

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a professional doctorate and terminal degree in business administration that enables its holders to become business professors, researchers and professionals. Many programs offer it as a standalone degree, while others offer it with technology-related fields of study. Holders of the DBA degree may represent themselves with the academic title doctor and attach the post-nominal DBA letters, too. 

Like its equivalent PhD in Business Administration, the DBA degree is also considered a research degree by the National Science Foundation (NSF). As such, its holders are qualified to perform research projects related to business topics and perform management roles in government agencies, corporations and nonprofit organizations. Many occupy senior-level positions, such as organizational development directors and chief executive officers. 

Candidates in non-accelerated DBA programs earn 54-60 credits in 3-5 years. Accelerated programs with compressed coursework enable candidates to earn the degree in three years, but it’s crucial to hit the milestones as scheduled. Many, if not most, students don’t have external employment but work as teaching and/or research assistants. 

Accelerated programs may offer human resources, international business, and global supply chain management concentrations. Choosing a concentration may involve taking three additional courses and the core coursework. Due to the multidisciplinary nature of business administration, the DBA coursework includes:

• business research,
• statistics,
• international business
• and accounting. 

On-site residences or internships may be required in addition to the culminating project. The latter requirement can be a dissertation or a special project highlighting the candidate’s DBA-related insights and interests. 

Median Pay: $146,600 per year 

Job Outlook: 12%

Job Opportunities: Business researchers/fellows and university professors 

Best Schools: Baker College , University of Wisconsin Whitewater , and Bellevue University  

Doctor of Education in Community College Leadership

Community colleges are crucial to the American education system because of their inclusive approach resulting in diverse student bodies, among other roles. But there are unique challenges, too, in their management that demands appropriate formal education and training in addition to work experience. The EdD in Community College Leadership degree is the best for the education and training part! 

Candidates in accelerated EdD in Community College Leadership programs learn essential competencies identified by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC):

• communication,
• organizational strategy,
• collaboration,
• fundraising,
• institutional finance,
• community college advocacy,
• and resource management.

Candidates become qualified for leadership positions at two-year colleges upon graduation with their knowledge and skills. Their future roles and responsibilities include overseeing the academic curriculum, student support services, business operations, and human resources of community colleges. 

Many EdD in Community College Leadership programs is standalone programs, while many are specializations within the EdD generalist programs. Both, nonetheless, are excellent educational preparations for roles as presidents, provosts and deans at community colleges. 

Between 50-66 post-master’s credits are required in accelerated programs, meaning a three-year time-to-completion. The curriculum consists of core and concentration courses, electives and dissertations; the first two years may be spent on the academic aspect, while the third year is for the dissertation. The core courses include:

• qualitative and quantitative research methods,
• advanced learning theory,
• leadership and ethics,
• and program development and evaluation.

Fiscal responsibility, student and faculty relations, and workforce training are common courses. 

Median Pay: $241,727 

Job Outlook: 8% 

Job Opportunities: Community college presidents, academic deans, and admissions directors 

Best Schools: New Jersey City University , Old Dominion University , and Mississippi State University

Doctor of Computer Science 

Individuals interested in gainful employment in the fast-growing computer and information technology field may want to consider the Doctor of Computer Science (DCS) degree! With a projected growth rate of 13% (2020-2030) and the highest median pay at $126,830 per year, it’s a degree that’s well worth the time, energy and money. With public and private organizations recognizing the need to use digital technologies in data management, DCS degree holders will have plenty of work waiting for them. 

Non-accelerated online programs have a six- to seven-year time-to-completion, but accelerated programs cut the time in half! Candidates can complete an accelerated program in three years but must be fully committed to achieving the milestones as recommended. 

Many programs have a minimum of 60 post-master’s credits to complete before the DCS degree is awarded. The first two years focus on the didactic coursework, while the last year is spent on completing the dissertation. The fast-paced coursework is rivaled only by the fast-paced progress through the dissertation, which usually takes 2-3 years for completion. But fast-paced doesn’t mean rushed and reduced quality – candidates must still meet high academic standards! 

Note that the DCS degree isn’t equivalent to the Doctor of Science in Computer Science (DSc) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science! The DCS degree is suitable for professionals whose main career goals include making meaningful contributions to the existing body of theories, principles and practices of computing. The DSc and PhD degrees are more suitable for professionals who want to teach in academia as professors and researchers. 

Median Pay: $126,830 per year

Job Outlook: 22%

Job Opportunities: Computer scientists, computer and information systems managers, and computer network architects 

Best Schools: University of North Dakota , Aspen University , and Colorado Technical University  

Doctor of Philosophy/Doctor in Grief Counseling

Licensed psychologists pursue either a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Doctor in Grief Counseling for career advancement and personal fulfillment. With the degree, their public or private practice can be expanded in terms of types of patients and professional scope resulting in more impact. Indeed, a doctorate in grief counseling degree holders has numerous paths possible, from becoming well-recognized published researchers to well-respected grief counselors with pioneering therapy techniques. 

Many also pursue successful careers in academia, such as university professors training future psychologists and grief counselors. The opportunity for scholarly activities is also a come-on for candidates in doctorate programs. There’s also the possible increase of their median annual salary by as much as 50%! 

A doctorate in Grief Counseling can be earned in 1-5 years. But a 3-year time-to-completion is more realistic if you want a good work-life-studies balance. In accelerated programs, students tackle a compressed curriculum that includes:

• research methodologies,
• and psychotherapy techniques.  

Candidates also gain a professional understanding of grief and bereavement in several situations, from job loss to divorce and death. Psychological first aid is an essential topic, too, along with loss and trauma. Since an entire community can also grieve, candidates also learn about community grief and crisis counseling, emphasizing multiculturalism and group counseling. 

Grief counselors work in a wide variety of settings, including the public and private sectors. Many are in private practice, while others are in hospitals, mental health facilities, and retirement communities, as well as the military. As professors and guidance counselors, being in academia is also a lucrative career path. 

Median Pay: $51,340 per year

Job Outlook: 15% 

Job Opportunities: Grief counselors, family and marriage therapists, and mental health counselors 

Best Schools: Regent University , Breyer State Theology University , and American International Theism University

Doctor of Health Sciences

The Doctor of Health Science (DHS) is an academic terminal degree for professionals interested in leadership positions in health sciences, including healthcare delivery systems. The leadership positions cover:

• clinical practice,
• applied research,
• professorship,
• conceptual,
• critical thinking
• and analytical thinking skills. 

The ideal candidates for DHS programs are allied health professionals, who must be either duly licensed or certified in their respective professions and want to advance their careers. Healthcare managers, practice clinicians, health science teachers and professors are common in accelerated DHS online programs. 

Candidates develop the knowledge and skills vital in finding solutions to issues based on evidence, applying the principles and best practices in healthcare management, and building their positive impact on healthcare systems. The DHS coursework then includes courses on:

• leadership,
• advocacy and ethics;
• strategies for improving healthcare services;
• organizational strategies for healthcare leadership;
• and equity, inclusivity and diversity in healthcare systems. 

Internships, research and teaching assistantships, and even community immersions are part of the graduation requirements in DHS programs. These hands-on experiences strengthen the candidates’ professional proficiency and dissertation, the typical culminating requirement. The dissertation is undoubtedly the most challenging aspect of accelerated DHS programs, which have a three-year time-to-completion due to the extensive research necessary. 

Upon graduation, DHS degree holders can pursue leadership positions that allow them to initiate positive changes in their workplaces and the healthcare industry. The opportunities to shape or influence public healthcare policy, support best practices in clinical settings, and conduct breakthrough research are also in their future. Many also become top-level healthcare managers, consultants, and community advocates. 

Median Pay: $104,280 per year

Job Outlook: 32% 

Job Opportunities: Healthcare administrator, health sciences researcher, university professor 

Best Schools: George Washington University , Drexel University , and Bay Path University

Doctor of Philosophy/Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies

Both PhD and EdD in Leadership Studies degrees emphasize the interdisciplinary characteristic of effective leadership in public and private organizations. These degrees are also versatile in the career paths that these can be applied in, from academia to business and industry, including healthcare, engineering and social work. Many holders, particularly the PhD in Leadership Studies degree, also become prolific researchers-scholars whose leadership studies advance its theories, principles and practices. 

The coursework is divided into:

• core and major courses,
• concentration courses,
• dissertation-related courses,
• internships,
• research/teaching assistantships,
• and community activities.

The typical curriculum has a specific sequence, particularly for cohort-based accelerated programs, meaning candidates should ideally hit their milestones based on the recommended timeline. Completing the degree in three years is, thus, possible. 

The courses usually include leadership-centric topics like leadership theories and intra- and inter-organizational leadership; applied leadership courses like communication, management, law and ethics; and policy development and implementation. As doctorate degrees, there’s an emphasis on generating original, perhaps thought-provoking, research with the dissertation as the culmination project. Leadership research courses, such as intermediate and advanced research methods, statistics, and experimental design, are part of the curriculum for this reason. 

Graduates can write, present and defend their research projects in a scholarly manner; demonstrate a proficient understanding of leadership studies in the personal, organizational and international perspectives; and foster positive relationships as part of their leadership. 

Median Pay: $97,500 per year

Job Outlook: 8%

Job Opportunities: School administrators, university professors, executive coaches and leaders 

Best Schools: Ashland University , Hofstra University , and Gonzaga University  

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Candidates in Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are planning on pursuing advanced leadership roles in nursing, but with less focus on research. The DNP degree has a more clinical focus, while the PhD in Nursing degree has a strong research emphasis. Thus, DNP degree holders have more hands-on, direct patient interactions that enable them to make an observable impact on their patients. 

Between the DNP degree and the PhD in Nursing degree, the former has a shorter time-to-completion, too. DNP degree programs have 1-4 years time-to-completion, while PhD programs typically require 3-5 years of full-time commitment. Accelerated DNP programs have three years time-to-completion with the assumption of full-time studies, no failing grades, and hitting the milestones on time. 

The DNP degree opens opportunities for jobs as advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), among other leadership positions. The DNP degree is currently considered the minimum educational requirement for entry-level APRNs in many healthcare institutions. Since it’s also a terminal degree, there’s no higher educational level available for aspiring APRNs, too. 

Accredited online DNP programs must cover eight essentials identified by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, namely: 

• Scientific foundation for practice 
• Organizational and systems leadership concerning systems thinking and quality improvement 
• Essentials for evidence-based practice including analytical methods and clinical scholarship 
• Information technology and systems for the improvement of quality of services and transformation of the healthcare system 
• Healthcare policy and advocacy 
• Improvement of patient and population health outcomes through interprofessional collaborations 
• Population health and clinical prevention concerning improvement in national health 
• Advanced nursing practice 

These essentials are covered through didactic courses, internships, clinical experiences, and a culminating project. Direct care and indirect care concentrations are also offered. 

Median Pay: $117,670 per year

Job Outlook: 45% 

Job Opportunities: Nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives 

Best Schools: Gwynedd Mercy University , University of Texas Arlington , and Maryville University  

Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists perform vital roles in improving the quality of life among patients with illnesses, injuries, and disabilities that prevent them from enjoying everyday activities in a normal manner. Their expert assistance enables patients to recover, improve, develop and maintain occupational skills necessary for daily working and living. Their patients include people with cerebral palsy, autism and Down syndrome, and patients who have physical disabilities caused by illness and injury, such as stroke. 

The minimum educational requirement for occupational therapists is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree in addition to their license. The OTD degree is a post-professional degree, meaning candidates usually have a master’s degree, a license in occupational therapy, and sufficient work experience. The standard OTD doctorate programs take 3.5 years to complete, but accelerated online programs cut the time to completion in half! For example, Boston University’s OTD program can be completed in 18 months. 

The coursework for post-professional OTD programs includes:

• clinical kinesiology,
• psychology,
• and therapeutic techniques in contemporary practice.

Concentrations are available in some programs, with prime examples being mental health and productive aging. 

There are also PhD in Occupational Therapy or Occupational Science programs, which are research-centric in contrast with the practice-based approach of OTD programs. The PhD programs are more suitable for professionals who want careers in research and academia, which may take up to six years. 

Occupational therapists must also possess soft skills to provide excellent patient care and work well with others. Adaptability, effective communication and interpersonal skills, and patience and compassion are desirable traits. 

Median Pay: $86,280 per year

Job Outlook: 17%

Job Opportunities: Occupational therapists, rehabilitation counselors, and university professors and researchers in occupational therapy

Best Schools: Boston University , Quinnipiac University , and St. Catherine University

Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership

While there are differences in the curriculum requirements among PhD in Organizational Leadership programs, their candidates develop the right knowledge, skills and mindset vital in their success as leaders. The combination is the result of core, major and elective coursework on the one hand and significant internship, research, and teaching experiences. These experiences are considered among the culminating projects that include an approved, publication-worthy dissertation. 

Most online doctorate programs have 3-5 years time-to-completion depending on the candidate’s enrolment status. But accelerated programs enable students to earn the degree in three years, tops, with the first two years for coursework and the last year for the dissertation. There are even shorter programs, but these can be extremely challenging in course load and other demands. 

A master’s degree in organizational leadership or related discipline, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation are common admission requirements. Many programs also require applicants to present relevant work experience, even research experience, because of the research focus. In-person and virtual interviews are also used to determine an applicant’s suitability for the program of study and its learning outcomes. 

Once accepted, candidates in PhD programs tackle interdisciplinary coursework that covers:

• organizational design and leadership,
• law and finance in education,
• and ethics in leadership.

Learners also gain the theoretical framework and practical foundation for organizational leadership in government agencies and for-profit and nonprofit organizations. 

Concentrations are offered in many programs, too, including missional leadership, educational leadership, and healthcare leadership. International consulting and entrepreneurial leadership are popular among business-focused candidates. 

Median Pay: $121,220 per year

Job Outlook: 9%

Job Opportunities: Human resource managers, organizational development consultants, organizational development directors, and 

Best Schools: Regent University , University of Arizona , and National University  

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Online Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs have a three-year time-to-completion, on average, but full-time students can earn the degree in less time. Accelerated programs can compress the coursework and internship components even more! But students must be aware of the increased demands on their minds and bodies in accelerated programs, starting with full-time engagement. 

DPT curriculum varies between programs, but just the same, students learn the essential knowledge and skills vital for their professional success. Said success starts with passing the licensure exam for physical therapists, but there’s no end to it either, as licensed physical therapists must have a passion for lifelong learning. Physical therapists with sufficient work experience may also pursue board certification in their desired clinical specialty, such as geriatrics, sports or orthopedics. 

Diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, and motor control are among the career-specific courses in DPT programs. Research methods, including statistical analysis, are also discussed in-depth in preparation for a culminating research project, if necessary. Students apply their learning in life sciences and promote research in physical therapy. 

Residency programs are typical experiences among physical therapists after they graduate from DPT programs. These are typically one-year programs that provide residents with additional hands-on training, which comes in handy for specialization. 

During their practice, licensed physical therapists assist people with illnesses or injuries that affect their movement and pain management capacity. Preventive care, treatment and management, and recovery and rehabilitation among patients form a significant part of their healthcare services. Their job also includes interprofessional collaborations with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses and the family members and caregivers of patients. 

Median Pay: $91,010 per year

Job Outlook: 21% 

Job Opportunities: Physical therapists, sports clinical specialists, and geriatric specialists  

Best Schools: University of North Carolina , University of Southern California , and Northeastern University  

Doctor of Philosophy/Doctor of Social Work 

Candidates in Doctor of Social Work (DSW) programs prepared for clinical careers with direct client interactions and clinical research (i.e., practice-based). For candidates in PhD in Social Work programs, their training emphasizes teaching and theory, meaning their focus is on original, if not innovative, multidisciplinary research. 

Both DSW and PhD in Social Work candidates can choose a concentration if their respective programs offer specializations, such as:

• advanced clinical practice,
• social work education,
• and mental health.

However, note that DSW candidates usually undergo more advanced internships than their PhD counterparts, mainly because of their practice-based focus. 

Candidates can take 4-6 years to complete a standard online program, but there are programs with an accelerated format, meaning candidates earn the degree in three years. The compressed coursework is complemented by the shorter periods between milestones, particularly in the dissertation phase. Both standard and accelerated programs have 45-60 post-master’s credits for candidates to complete. 

Regardless of their differences, both programs enable candidates to further develop their knowledge and skills in making a positive difference in others. Along with deeper insights into social work and its corresponding theories and principles, candidates also learn leadership and advanced research methodologies. The typical courses include:

• public policy issues,
• financial management in social work,
• psychopharmacology
• and psychopathology. 

Holders of a doctorate in social work degree may also choose to pursue continuing education for career advancement and personal fulfillment. Possible paths include an MBA that will enable effective leadership in nonprofit settings, a doctorate in psychology, and advanced certifications related to social work. Pursuing a license, such as a licensed master of social work, is also popular. 

Median Pay: $69,600 per year

Job Opportunities: Community service administration managers, clinical social workers, and university professors or researchers 

Best Schools: Baylor University , University at Buffalo , and University of Pennsylvania  

Doctor of Philosophy in Sports Management

The typical candidates in PhD in Sports Management programs have a keen interest in the business aspects of sports and recreation and relevant educational attainment and work experience. Their extensive training includes principles and practices in sports organizations and teams’ day-to-day operations and overall direction. 

These include:

• overall administration,
• finance and accounting,
• human resources,
• law and ethics,
• and consumer behavior.

The coursework may include:

• sports facility and event management,
• sports communication,
• and public policy concerning the sports and recreation industry. 

While a master’s degree in sports management may be an advantage, it isn’t a must-have requirement in most online accelerated programs. But it pays to possess relevant work experience in sports management since it will add a deeper dimension to your rigorous doctorate training! 

Concentrations may be offered by colleges and universities, thus, allowing candidates to gain specialist skills that can be used in niche aspects in sports and recreation. Examples of specializations are marketing, finance and facilities and events management. 

While PhD programs have a research-centric approach, some PhD in Sports Management programs may have other culminating projects instead of a dissertation. These include practical capstone projects identifying issues and offering viable solutions to current sports concerns. 

Candidates also develop the important qualities that will contribute to their success as sports coaches, researchers and directors. Effective communication, analytical and problem-solving skills are prioritized, followed by decision-making, organizational and motivational skills. Add creativity and thinking out of the box, particularly for marketing purposes, and you’re on your way to success! 

Median Pay: $141,490 per year

Job Outlook: 10% 

Job Opportunities: Sports promoters or sports agents, marketing directors, and university professors 

Best Schools: Troy University and East Tennessee State University

Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management

The field of technology management is concerned with the design, development and applications of technological products and services to numerous organizations. These products and services are intended to deliver excellent value, increase effectiveness and efficiency, and promote the organizations’ respective goals. These technological products and services include software programs, hardware devices, and communication and network systems specific to the organization’s needs. 

Candidates in PhD in Technology Management programs must have an interdisciplinary perspective since technology management draws from diverse fields. These include:

• computer science and information technology,
• business intelligence and analysis,
• strategic and innovation management,
• and user experience design.

More often than not, organizational issues can be resolved by combining several disciplines and using them in creative ways. 

The extensive PhD training is more practice-based, but it also has a strong research component. Candidates prepare for leadership positions in for-profit and nonprofit organizations, government agencies, community institutions, and academia. Their doctorate-level skills include research methodologies and instructional processes, thus, their professional value in these sectors. 

Concentrations are offered in some programs, too, with popular ones including:

• digital communication systems,
• construction management systems,
• and manufacturing and quality systems.

Regardless of concentration, candidates are usually required to submit an approved dissertation and undergo an intensive residency/internship. Candidates gain hands-on experience while also strengthening their professional network, a crucial aspect of landing viable jobs. 

Median Pay: $151,150 per year

Job Outlook: 11% 

Job Opportunities: Business information manager, network administrator, and e-business developer 

Best Schools: Indiana State University , Bowling Green State University , and National University  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does it mean to be an online phd and doctorate program.

One-year doctorate programs are rare because very few fields of study lend themselves well to such a short-term period. The more common time-to-completion for the fastest doctorate degrees is 2-3 years, significantly shorter than the 4-8 years average. These programs will demand more of your time, effort, and energy and demand more in terms of academic background, thesis exposure, and work experience than the typical programs. The common formats are: 

• Accelerated programs usually have fast-paced coursework with courses spanning 6-8 weeks and multiple start dates and required full-time enrollment for all terms, including summers. Candidates must meet the scheduled milestones to meet the time-to-completion. 
• Practical doctorate programs don’t have a dissertation requirement but require candidates to engage in “dissertation in practice.” Since there’s no dissertation, candidates can complete the graduation requirements in less time; the typical dissertation can take at least a year to complete. 
• Programs that allow master’s degree credits to be transferred to the doctorate program in the same or similar field mean faster completion time, too. 

But these programs don’t have much wiggle room for error – candidates shouldn’t fail their classes, or they won’t meet the scheduled milestones on time. 

Are these fastest online doctorate programs as good as the standard programs?

Yes, these accelerated online doctorate programs provide world-class post-graduate education and training! Accelerated and standard programs have valid accreditation, credentialed faculty members, and a contemporary curriculum that meets educational standards. When they earn their degrees, candidates in these programs reap the rewards of their labors, particularly improved employability and quality of life. 

Of course, candidates must also make deliberate decisions and actions that will maximize the potential of their doctorate degrees! These include immersing themselves in the didactic coursework, applying the lessons learned in their workplaces, and ensuring that their dissertations, or other culminating projects, have a unique value. 

What factors must affect a student’s choice of the fastest online doctorate programs?

• The accreditation must be from one of the regional accreditation agencies that, in turn, should be recognized by the US Department of Education. These include the Higher Learning Commissions, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and WASC Senior College and University Commission. This must be the first thing to look for when considering online programs! 
• The program must have applied coursework, meaning that candidates have opportunities to apply their doctoral-level knowledge and skills in real-world situations. The applied coursework is of particular importance to working professionals, most candidates in post-graduate programs. 
• There must be a wide range of satisfactory academic resources and support available to the candidates. Pursuing a doctorate isn’t a walk in the park, and there’s no sense in doing it alone! Ask about the quality of academic resources available, such as faculty advisors, library systems and access, and assistantships and financial aid. 
• The curriculum should comply with the current standards and reflect the current needs of the industry where the doctorate will be applied. Take a look at the courses and their descriptions to determine their suitability for your career goals. 
• The faculty members must possess top credentials in their field of expertise. Look at the program’s website where faculty members are featured, perhaps going the extra mile to research the faculty members’ professional profiles. 

Read students’ actual experiences in the program and reach out to the faculty members. The latter is strongly recommended for future doctorate students, too, since it’s vital to their success to choose a faculty advisor as early as possible. Most programs require candidates to choose and connect with their respective faculty advisor on the first term. 

Even if you’re planning on an online program, you may want to make an on-campus visit, if only once, before you submit your application for admission. The on-campus visit will open your eyes to the universities’ unique academic environment, including its research resources and facilities. 

What factors affect the time to completion in these accelerated programs?

The primary factors are: 

• The approach and methodology used for the dissertation is significant factor in the time-to-completion since it’s the culminating requirement. Most programs allot 1-3 years for the dissertation phase due to the complex and conscientious nature of writing a post-graduate research project. Accelerated programs, however, typically set a one-year timeline for the dissertation. 
• The credits that can be transferred into the doctorate program from a master’s degree and life and work experiences. Look for MS-to-PhD programs that allow overlapping of credits between the degrees. 
• The number of credits taken every term with candidates classified either part-time or full-time. Candidates who want to earn their degree in 2-3 years take on a full-time course load every term, including summers. 
• The delivery mode of the courses, which can be in-person, online or hybrid, is also a significant factor as it influences the pace of study. Online programs are popular because they provide flexible scheduling for working professionals, including accelerating the courses. But accelerated programs demand diligence, drive and determination among candidates so that they can stay on track. 

In the end, your commitment to earning a doctorate from an online accelerated program is the biggest influence in your time-to-completion. 

What traits make for a successful doctorate candidate in an online accelerated program?

Remember that a doctorate is neither about rote memorization nor about rehashing existing knowledge! Instead, it’s about your ability to create new knowledge via your dissertation, research project, or special project in your field of study. Your academic coursework, seminars and assistantships culminate in your dissertation or its equivalent, and your newly acquired knowledge and skillsets are highlighted in it. 

With that being said, you must be strongly passionate about the field of study and its specialized area that you’ve chosen to pursue as a doctorate student. The dissertation process is extremely challenging, and without your strong personal passion and professional commitment, you won’t be able to complete it. 

 Other traits that effective doctorate candidates possess are: 

• Openness to new knowledge and skills combined with a strong sense of curiosity, creativity and flexibility 
• The ability for independent work while also being able to work with a team, such as in research projects 
• Skill in designing your work plan from start to finish and being able to carry it out as planned 
• Personal accountability both to yourself and others 
• Willingness to ask for assistance, including when, how and from whom, as well as the willingness to provide assistance 

What’s the value of a doctorate?

The best one: A doctorate can open doors of opportunities! A terminal degree is a must for leadership positions in many fields of study since it demonstrates expertise in relevant knowledge and skills. This is particularly true for leadership positions in academia, such as university presidents, provosts and deans, and university professors. 

For certain industries, a doctorate is a strong competitive edge. The pharmaceutical and medical industries are prime examples because of their emphasis on research and new products and processes. There are also occupations where a doctorate is a must for licensure and career advancements, such as physical therapy and audiology. 

Indeed, the shorter the time spent on their doctorate studies, the lower the cost of attendance and the faster you can compete in the job marketplace. But, of course, you don’t want to earn a doctorate only to discover later on that it doesn’t meet the standards of potential employers – no accreditation, prestige and usefulness in the contemporary workplace, among other reasons. The best among the fastest PhD and doctorate programs must have valid accreditation and be recognized by academia and industries due to their useful functions.

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• Why earn a Doctorate Degree?
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If you’re looking for the most affordable online doctoral degrees, you likely either have a vision for success or have already accomplished a great deal. Doctoral degrees are terminal degrees giving their owners the highest amount of learning they can receive in their field.

Completing the degrees necessary to enter into a doctoral program can be quite an expensive venture. Most potential doctoral students are anxious to cut expenses as much as possible. These schools provide the least expensive doctoral degree programs available online.

Methodology

The writers and editors of Online-PhD-Degrees.com gather the most important and relevant information from the independent, unbiased  NCES.gov’s College Navigator , as well as, college websites and publicly available data including various highly respected sources.

Sponsored schools are, in fact, paid advertisements that are not in any way affiliated with OPD’s individual school rankings.  They are distinctly defined with the word “SPONSORED” so as to not perplex our visitors with what the site editors, researchers and writers of OPD have methodologically researched and ranked.  Independently sponsored schools pay for their placement on our site. For more information regarding our ranking methodology or our sponsored schools, please visit our methodology page.

Below is our list of the most affordable online schools that offer doctoral programs. We provide information on each school’s tuition, the doctoral degrees offered at the schools, and some introductory points about the way in which the online degrees are delivered.

This website will aid in that first step in preparing you for your path toward selecting an online college that works for you and your needs. Perusing each school’s website yourself and requesting information to be sent to you for your evaluation is highly recommended and encouraged.

20 Most Affordable Online Doctoral Programs

The Taft University System

The William Howard Taft University System offers some of the most inexpensive online doctoral programs. A private university which is based in Colorado, the Taft University System has been offering degrees since 1976. It became one of the pioneers of distance education and after the turn of the century began offering doctoral degrees as well.

The Taft University System offers 3 concentrations in Education and a Doctor of Business Administration. The minimum completion time for the online doctorates at the Taft University System is 27 months. Students are enrolled in one class at a time while completing other classes. The average completion time is 48 months.

Accreditation:  Accredited by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education

Tuition:  $315 per credit hour

Online Doctorate Programs Available:

• Doctor of Education in Leadership and Management
• Doctor of Education in Charter School Administration
• Doctor of Education in Technology and Leadership
• Doctor of Business Administration

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT THE WILLIAM TAFT UNIVERSITY SYSTEM .

______________________________

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota has one of the lowest costs per credit of all the schools on this list. UND offers the same tuition for their online programs as they do for in-state on-campus students. The University of North Dakota was founded in 1883, even before the state of North Dakota was established. It is now the state’s largest university.

According to its website, the University of North Dakota has “emerged as an innovator in energy, medicine, aviation, and unmanned aircraft systems.” This specialty shows in the type of online doctoral programs that are offered by the university, one of which is Aerospace Sciences. The University of North Dakota has a high success rate with 85% of the graduates working in the field of their education.

Accreditation:  Higher Learning Commission

Tuition:  $511 per credit hour

• Aerospace Sciences
• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Energy Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Nurse Anesthesia
• Nursing Practice
• Petroleum Engineering

MORE INFORMATION ON ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

University of Missouri

The University of Missouri, though it only offers one online doctorate, still has one of the most affordable online tuition rates. Mizzou Online offers over 100 online degrees and certificates and according to their website, the staff has a collective 600 years of experience in online and adult education.

The online doctorate that is offered at the University of Missouri is a Doctor of Philosophy in Human Environmental Sciences with an emphasis on Architectural Studies. This degree program consists of 72 credit hours and is delivered 100% online.

The minimum time to completion is 5 years but actual completion time will depend on the number of credits per semester.

Tuition:  $542 per credit hour

• Aesthetics of Design
• Facility Management and Design
• Inclusive design/Accessibility
• Sustainable Design

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI.

Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University not only regularly receives accolades for its online program, it also provides affordable tuition. With 7 online doctoral programs in the field of engineering and one in Community College Leadership, Mississippi State charges under $500 per credit hour of doctoral learning.

Ranked in the top 20% for online military-friendly schools Mississippi State has “veteran-friendly distinctions” and is recognized as a “military spouse friendly” school as well. SmartAsset has listed Mississippi State as being the top “best value” school in Mississippi for three years in a row.

Accreditation:  Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition:  $537 per credit hour

• Community College Leadership
• Computational Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Concentration in Aerospace Engineering
• Concentration in Civil Engineering
• Concentration in Mechanical Engineering
• Industrial and Systems Engineering

MORE INFORMATION ON ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT MISSISSIPPI STATE 

Northwest State University of Louisiana

Northwestern State University offers the same low rate of tuition for students acquiring their doctorates as for in-state students.  Their low tuition gives doctoral students across the country the opportunity to take classes at one of the top online schools in the U.S.

Northwestern State University was founded in 1884 and became the parent of eNSU which was Louisiana’s “first and largest electronic campus.” eNSU offers “accommodating class schedules, personalized instruction, military benefits, and financial aid.

According to their website, eNSU is recognized as a top military-friendly school and one of the best Online Schools for Veterans. eNSU has over 40 online degrees and programs with two online doctorate programs available.

Tuition: $475-575 per credit hour

• Doctor of Education in Adult and Learning Development
• Doctor of Nursing Practice

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT THE NORTHWEST STATE UNIVERSITY OF  LOUISIANA

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers in-state and out-of-state graduate tuition both for under $600 per credit hour which makes it one of the least expensive online doctorate offerings on this list. Old Dominion University is a public research university established in 1930 in Norfolk, Virginia.

Their student satisfaction rate is very high with a 2017 survey showing 97% of students either satisfied or very satisfied with their experience at Old Dominion. The online satisfaction rate was just a little lower at 95.9%. Old Dominion University offers 10 online doctorate programs in varying fields from Education to English to Instructional Design.

Tuition: 

• In-state: $599 per credit hour
• Out-of-state: $1,439 per credit hour
• Career and Technical Education
• Educational Leadership with Licensure
• Occupational and Technical Studies
• Instructional Design and Technology
• Nursing-Advanced Practice
• Nursing-Nurse Executive
• Public Administration and Policy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY.

Aspen University

Aspen University has one of the lowest tuition rates for online doctorates. Aspen is a private university located in Denver, Colorado, which has been offering distance education since 1987. Aspen offers “online doctoral degree programs in the high demand fields of Education (Ed.D.), Nursing (DNP) and Computer Science (DCS).

According to their website, Aspen University allows their doctoral students to obtain a graduate degree at their own pace through the completion of online coursework. The online doctoral programs at Aspen University are designed for students who are balancing school, family, or work commitments at the same time as pursuing higher education.

Accreditation:  Distance Education Accrediting Commission

Tuition:  $518 per month

• Computer Science
• Health Care Administration and Leadership
• Higher Education Leadership
• K12 Educational Leadership
• Organizational Leadership
• Organizational Psychology

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT ASPEN UNIVERSITY

Ball State University Online

Ball State University has a low cost for a high reputation for its online doctoral programs. In 2018, Ball State University earned high rankings from U.S. News and World Report. These include the 9th best online graduate education programs for veterans and the 16th best online MBAs.

Almost all of Ball State’s online programs are offered 100% online with no trip to the campus needed to complete the program. Ball State was the “first higher education institution in the country to earn Learner Support Program Certification for its online programs.”

This certification was provided by Quality Matters. Ball State is also ranked No. 8 by Victory Media on its list of Military Friendly Schools.

Tuition:  $576 per credit hour

• Adult and Community Education
• Educational Administration and Supervision
• Special Education
• Higher Education and Community College Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT BALL STATE UNIVERSITY ONLINE.

Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington is the parent of Indiana University Online which offers some of the most affordable online doctoral programs. IUOnline began 5 years ago and has been very successful in bringing education to people at their convenience.

Not only do around 33% of Indiana University’s students take an online class but the online degree programs have increased by 46% since 2014. This brings the total online degree programs at IUOnline to 124 with 6 doctoral programs included. IUonline has a commitment to delivering “high-quality academic experiences and seamless services to online students.”

Tuition:  $530 per credit hour

• A few of the degrees are more per credit hour. However, in-state tuition for all doctoral degrees at Indiana University is under $600 with the exception of Nursing Practice.
• Instructional Systems Technology
• Literacy, Culture and Language Education
• Occupational Therapy Post-Professional
• Nursing Science
• Public Health, Global Health Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT INDIANA UNIVERSITY BLOOMINGTON.

University of Colorado Denver

Colorado University Online makes the list as one of the most affordable schools at which to study for a doctoral degree. Depending on the degree one is seeking, the price for studying online at CU Online can be under $400 a credit. CU Online offers 28 online degrees including 3 doctorate degrees in the field of medicine.

CU Online is an affiliate of Colorado University Denver which has a strong medical presence in the Denver area, serving over 500,000 patients a year. The University of Colorado Denver is not new to the field of medicine, opening their Department of Medicine and Surgery in 1883.

The Department of Nursing at the University of Colorado Denver is 130 years old. The University of Colorado Denver is the largest public research university in Colorado.

• $450-$720: In-State Graduate Tuition
• $1,400-$1,549: Out-of-State Graduate Tuition
• Doctor of Pharmacy – iPharmD
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER .

University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas Online has some of the least expensive online doctorates available for those interested in pursuing a doctorate in Education or Nursing. Three out of the four online doctoral programs offered at U of A Online are under $500 a credit hour which makes the school one of the most affordable on this list.

The University of Arkansas was founded in 1871 and now has over 12,000 students taking at least one online course. The University of Arkansas Online was named one of the best online programs in graduate education by  U.S. News and World Report.

At the University of Arkansas, “Online courses are designed by the academic colleges and schools at the University of Arkansas to produce the same learning outcomes as traditional, on-campus courses.”

Tuition:  $438-$597 per credit hour

• Doctor of Education in Adult and Lifelong Learning
• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
• Doctor of Education in Human Resources and Workforce Development Education

LEARN MORE ABOUT ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS.

University of Louisiana Monroe

The University of Louisiana Monroe offers two inexpensive doctoral programs online. The Educational Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction and the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.

The coursework for the Doctorate in Education can be completed in as little as 24 months. The coursework for the Marriage and Family Therapy Doctorate can also be completed in a little over 2 years. These degree programs are offered by ULM Online at $500 per credit hour.

The University of Louisiana Monroe is a public research institution in Monroe, Louisiana which opened in 1931. ULM Online offers 30 online degree programs and maintains the same level of excellence in its online programs as it does on campus. According to their website, “ ULM students who learn online earn the same degree as our face-to-face students from an accredited and respected institution of higher learning. “

Tuition:  $695 per credit hour

• Curriculum and Instruction
• Marriage and Family Therapy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE.

Texas A&M University-Commerce

Texas A&M University-Commerce has one of the least expensive online doctorates on this list. Only one online doctorate is available at Texas A&M, the Doctorate of Education in Educational Administration.

This degree has a K-12 public school administration emphasis and requires a strong commitment to education on the part of its applicants and students. “ The Department of Educational Leadership at Texas A&M University-Commerce prepares graduates for teaching, service, and leadership roles in a variety of educational, business, government and industry contexts .”

Accreditation:  Southern Association on Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition:  $758 per credit hour

Acceptance:

• General requirements for admission into Graduate Studies at Texas A&M  must be met.
• 3.40 GPA for master’s degree work
• Letter of recommendation, administrative experience along with all departmental requirements
• Two cohorts of doctoral students are accepted each year. Acceptance is competitive
• Doctor of Education in Educational Administration

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY COMMERCE.

Liberty University

Liberty University Online is developing a reputation as one of the best online colleges, especially for the price. Liberty offers 9 different doctoral programs online which makes it one of the most diverse online schools on this list. The tuition for the programs varies from around $400 to $650 a credit.

Liberty Online is affiliated with Liberty University which was begun by Jerry Falwell in 1971.  In 1985, Liberty began its distance learning program by sending VHS tapes to long-distance students. The University now has over 100,000 students with over 550 programs. Liberty Online has over 250 of these programs available for off-campus students.

Liberty University is a private, non-profit private institution and is one of the largest Christian institutions in the world based on student enrollment.

Tuition:  $565-$615

• Divinity D.Min.
• Ed.D. Community Care and Counseling
• Business Administration
• Education Specialist
• Ph.D. Counselor Education and Supervision
• Ph.D. Higher Education Administration
• Ph.D. Theology and Apologetics

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY.

Cal Southern University

Cal Southern University offers several online doctoral programs that are some of the most affordable available. The Juris Doctor Degree is $375 per credit hour and the Doctor of Psychology and Doctor of Business Administration Degrees are both $495 for each credit hour.

The online doctorates at Cal Southern University are applied or professional doctorates. Unlike academic doctorates, they are “more devoted to the advanced, practical application of theory in a professional setting.” The online doctorates at Cal Southern are offered by Cal Southern’s Schools of Business, Law, and Psychology.

Cal Southern University has a “state of the art” online library and offers flexible scheduling for those students who are balancing multiple responsibilities besides finishing their doctoral degrees.

Accreditation:  Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition:  $250-$475 per credit hour.

• Juris Doctor
• Doctor of Psychology

LEARN MORE ABOUT ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT CAL SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY .

Montana State University

One of the most affordable online doctorates, the DNP degree at Montana State University Online has two concentrations. One can study to be a Nurse Practitioner focusing on Family/Individual studies or Psychiatric/Mental Health. Now Montana’s largest university, Montana State University was founded in 1893 in Bozeman, Montana.

Originally a land-grant institution, MSU serves its community well with over 8,500 students being from the state of Montana. Montana State University has maintained a high standard of academic excellence throughout the years. 

According to the website of Montana State University, “During its most recent re-accreditation, MSU was commended for an ‘extremely high level of productivity and effectiveness.'” MSU is committed to maintaining this standard in its online degree programs as well.

Accreditation:  Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Tuition:  $291 per credit hour

• Nurse Practitioner, Family/Individual
• Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric/Mental Health

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORATE OF NURSING PRACTICE AT MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY.

Governors State University

Governors State University offers in-state tuition to all online students making their online doctoral programs some of the cheapest available. Of the 5 online doctoral programs available at Governors State, two of them: Counselor Education and Supervision and Interdisciplinary Leadership are priced at only $477 per credit hour. Another online doctorate in Physical Therapy is $613 per credit hour.

Governors State University is a public university in Illinois, located 40 miles south of Chicago, that offers 64 degree programs to its students. According to its website, Governors State University has the most affordable undergraduate tuition in the state of Illinois. The online program at Governors State University offers over 200 online courses.

Tuition:  $477-$797 – In-State Tuition

• Doctor of Physical Therapy
• Doctor of Occupational Therapy
• Doctor of Counselor Education
• Doctor of Interdisciplinary Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT GOVERNORS STATE UNIVERSITY .

Amridge University

Offering 9 different doctoral programs at low cost, Amridge University “has been a long-time leader in online education.” All of the programs at Amridge University use distance learning as the primary way of teaching.

According to their website, Amridge University has made it their goal to support their students from the beginning of their application and throughout their online experience. Amridge University was founded in 1967 and is a private university.

They offer “excellent scholarships and incentive discounts for Military Students, First Time Freshmen, Sister Institution Staff, Ministers, and Corporate Alliances.

Accreditation:  Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges – 1866 Southern Ln. Decatur, GA 30033

Tuition:  $535-$780 per credit hour

• Organizational Leadership and Management
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Ministry in Family Therapy
• Higher Education Administration
• Professional Counseling
• Doctor of Ministry
• Old Testament
• New Testament

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY .

Johnson University

Johnson University offers one of the cheapest online doctoral degrees. The Doctorate in Leadership Studies is an interdisciplinary degree that focuses on “four dimensions of leadership studies.” These four dimensions are:

• individual and personal systems,
• organizational systems,
• global systems,
• and research.

The Ph.D. program is “rooted in a commitment to educating a whole person.” Johnson University is a private, Christian university based out of Kimberlin Heights, Tennessee. Founded in 1893, Johnson University is not only part of the educational scene but also the history of Tennessee.

Johnson University has two physical campuses, an online campus, and extended education programs that are located in many other states. Johnson University’s online program provides students with constant and direct access to their faculty.

One-on-one advising in their academic discipline as well as virtual library services and other academic resources are also offered to every online student.

Tuition:  $945 per credit hour

• Doctorate in Leadership Studies

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT JOHNSON UNIVERSITY.

University of Wilmington

Wilmington University offers 3 affordable doctorates 100% online. The price to enroll in one of these doctorates is $632 per credit hour which comes to around $1,896 per course.

Wilmington is located on 3 different campuses in New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland as well as on their online campus. Wilmington has 20,000 students enrolled and a 17:1 faculty-student ratio.

Wilmington University is a private, non-profit, doctoral research institution that was founded in 1968. According to its website, Wilmington University offers a high transfer of at 90 credits and is focused on providing career-focused degree programs.

Accreditation:  Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $696 per credit hour

• Higher Education Leadership and Innovation
• Organizational Learning, Leadership and Innovation

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT WILMINGTON UNIVERSITY.

How can i make my doctorate program more affordable.

A doctoral degree program can be made more affordable by looking for programs that offer tuition discounts, tuition waivers, or scholarships. Students should also look into the cost of living in any potential locations and investigate loan and grant options.

Other cost-saving measures include taking courses online or part-time, depending on the availability of courses in the program. Additionally, some universities may offer stipends or fellowships to help offset costs.

How long will an online doctorate take to earn?

An online doctoral program can vary in the length of time it takes to complete. Generally, online PhDs take the same amount of time as an on-campus program would take. However, because online education is usually accomplished while working full time or completing other responsibilities, the classes may take longer for individuals to complete.

The average student in any Ph.D. program will take 8.5 years to complete their doctorate. Some programs may be completed in as little as three years. On average, one can expect to take five years to complete an online or on-campus Ph.D. program.

• Things to consider when evaluating the time it takes to complete an online Ph.D. are:
• The projected timeline proposed by the school for the program;
• How many responsibilities and other duties one has outside of accomplishing the Ph.D.;
• Whether or not one has credits that will transfer into the program and related to this;
• Whether one will be able to test out of any proposed classes in the program.

Looking closely at the prescribed program as well as talking to your adviser and accurately adjudicating one’s schedule, will give a pretty close estimate of the time it will take to complete an online Ph.D. program.

What is the average cost of an online doctoral degree?

According to Guide to Online Schools, over 245 schools now offer an online doctoral degree. Doctoral degrees are offered online in various fields, including:

• Literature,
• Philosophy,
• Public Health,
• Technology,
• Engineering,
• and many others.

The cost of acquiring an online doctoral degree can be less than attending a traditional classroom, depending on the type of school one attends. The average tuition for a doctoral degree in a traditional setting is between $15,000-$20,000 a year (according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System).

According to NCES, public institutions offer the least expensive degrees, with traditional doctorates averaging around $11,000. Private Non-Profit Institutions, on the other end of the spectrum, cost around $25,000 a year. Private For-Profit Institutions cost about $14,000 a year for a doctoral degree.

More and more top public and private research institutions are offering online degrees, some of which are included on this list. The average cost of an online doctoral degree on this list is about $500 a credit, which comes to around $10,000 a year.

Are online doctoral degrees 100% online?

The list in this article of the most affordable online degrees only includes degrees in which the coursework can be completed 100% online. Often a doctorate will require one or several visits to campus as residencies, though many on this list do not require this.

A residency can be very helpful in forging connections, meeting classmates in person as well as doing intensive study, and working with faculty. If an institution advertises 100% online coursework, the residencies may be considered differently. However, with advancing technology, it is becoming more common for online doctorates to be able to be completed 100% online.

In a research field, the work in a doctorate is primarily intellectual and therefore doesn’t require on-site, hands-on experience. However, a field such as Chemistry has the option for physical research as well as theoretical. In these types of doctorates, a yearly residency may be necessary to complete the requirements for the degree. Technology has affected even these degrees, however, with the developing world of online labs.

How important is it for my online doctorate to be accredited?

When acquiring an online doctorate, not only should cost be a factor, but accreditation should be as well. The quality of a doctorate is monitored by accreditation. An applicant having an accredited Ph.D. may make a difference for an employer when looking to hire new employees.

Graduate programs may have regional accreditation and also a programmatic accreditation for the specific doctorate being offered. If one is looking to enter an academic field, having an accredited degree is very important as the accreditation will be noticed. Because serious academics usually have accredited degrees, one’s circle of colleagues and classmates will be of a higher caliber in an accredited degree program.

Only programs with accreditation can grant federal aid, which should also be considered. Another aspect of accreditation to consider is that transferring credits from one institution to another may only be possible if the credits were acquired from an accredited institution.

If you are already employed, and your doctorate will be covered by your employer, often the doctorate will have to be accredited in order to qualify for tuition reimbursement. In sum, advancing one’s career and financing one’s doctorate will both be affected by ensuring that a doctorate is accredited.

What are the usual prerequisites to enter an online doctoral program?

Most online doctoral programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s and master’s degree. These degrees can sometimes be in a related field, or some doctoral programs may require applicants to have a degree in the field they are entering.

A specific GPA requirement usually needs to be met in order to be accepted into a doctoral program. Another prerequisite may be work or experience in the field of doctoral studies. Entering an online doctoral program may require particular prerequisites in working with online technology.

Testing may be required throughout the doctoral program to ensure a student’s aptitude in their field of research. Applying for an online doctoral program will generally require the following:

• Application Fee – usually between $50-$100
• Application Form
• Resume – including all work experience and education
• Statement of Purpose – including generous information about why the doctorate is a good fit
• Standardized Testing – usually, the GRE or the GMAT or a standardized test in one’s field may be required.
• Letters of Recommendation – often, three letters will be required from former professors or colleagues in the field of study that one wishes to enter
• Official Transcripts – from all colleges and universities attended
• TOEFL – often required for those whose first language is not English

Related Links:

• BEST ACCREDITED ONLINE PH.D. PROGRAMS
• MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (DBA)
• FASTEST ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)

Key Takeaways

• There are a number of highly reputable colleges that offer the doctoral degree online at relatively lower tuition rates than most.
• A PhD in public health prepares professionals who will secure advanced practice leadership positions in research, teaching, and administration in the field.
• Public health focuses on public health policy, management, administration, population health, and health systems.

Most Affordable Online Public Health PhD's

Indiana university bloomington, university of north carolina at chapel hill, pennsylvania state university, university of illinois chicago, university of south florida, kent state university, university of montana, university of alabama at birmingham, east carolina university, old dominion university.

• Old Dominion University 95%
• University of Montana 95%
• East Carolina University 92%
• Nebraska Methodist College 91%
• Kent State University 88%
• Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences 88%
• University of Alabama at Birmingham 87%
• Indiana University Bloomington 82%
• Central Michigan University 79%
• University of Illinois Chicago 79%
• Capella University 35 to 1
• University of South Florida 22 to 1
• Walden University 21 to 1
• Kent State University 19 to 1
• East Carolina University 18 to 1
• University of Illinois Chicago 18 to 1
• University of Alabama at Birmingham 18 to 1
• Central Michigan University 17 to 1
• University of Montana 17 to 1
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 17 to 1
• Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences $37,230
• Nebraska Methodist College $16,883
• Capella University $14,328
• Central Michigan University $13,650
• Walden University $12,483
• University of Illinois Chicago $12,396
• Kent State University $11,218
• Indiana University Bloomington $10,012
• University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,832
• Old Dominion University $7,239
• Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences $23,850
• Central Michigan University $15,942
• Capella University $14,826
• University of Illinois Chicago $14,181
• Nebraska Methodist College $12,113
• Kent State University $12,071
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill $10,552
• Old Dominion University $10,519
• Indiana University Bloomington $10,033
• Walden University $9,902

Nebraska Methodist College

Capella university, massachusetts college of pharmacy and health sciences, walden university, central michigan university.

• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 17%
• University of South Florida 44%
• Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences 10 to 1
• Nebraska Methodist College 12 to 1
• Old Dominion University 16 to 1
• Indiana University Bloomington 17 to 1
• East Carolina University $4,452
• University of South Florida $4,559
• University of Montana $5,515
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill $7,019
• East Carolina University $4,749
• University of Montana $5,166
• University of South Florida $8,350
• University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,424

Earning a PhD degree in public health can help advance your career and open doors to new leadership opportunities in the healthcare industry. Doctoral public health degrees can also give credibility to graduates, allowing them to make an influential and positive difference in public health in general.

Featured Programs

What is an online phd in public health degree.

A PhD in public health is a research doctorate degree designed to prepare students for careers in government, academia, or the private sector. This graduate school program emphasizes interdisciplinary training and research for future public health researchers in the environmental health, biomedical, and social sciences.

Doctoral online programs in public health use epidemiological methods to investigate health and disease prevention. The aim is to design and implement interventions to improve population health, and to evaluate the efficiency of the interventions to benefit the healthcare system.

How We Rank the Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in Public Health

In most cases, the most affordable online doctoral degree programs in public health will be those offered by universities in your state. Online students who attend public universities enjoy access to in-state tuition rates just like traditional on-campus doctoral candidates.

That’s why we’ve ranked these online doctorate degree programs by placing the highest weight on in-state tuition rates. The tuition price listed below may not reflect the lower rate extended to in-state residents.

We have set a max tuition fee of $20,000.

Click on each school to learn more about in-state tuition discounts. Other factors included in our ranking are Influence—the measure of a school’s excellence based on the real-world impact of its professors, students, and alumni; and the percentage of full-time students enrolled in online degree programs at each institution.

Below is a mix of both public and private universities offering the most affordable online PhD degree programs in public health.

The Most Affordable Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs

• #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Indiana 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in Indiana 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools in Indiana 2024
• #1 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Indiana
• #2 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
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Tuition + fees

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Communications
• Anthropology
• Social Work
• Computer Science
• Mathematics
• Political Science

Most Influential Alumni

• James Watson
• René Girard
• David Chalmers
• David Starr Jordan
• Alice Dreger
• Stephen F. Cohen
• Robert M. French
• Isiah Thomas
• Marcia Baron
• Will Shortz

Indiana University Bloomington , the flagship campus of Indiana University, is a public research university offering more than 550 academic programs, many of which are nationally ranked in the Top 10 or higher.

IU-Bloomington offers an online doctorate in public health with a concentration in environmental health . This doctoral program provides a solid foundation in the field of public health, focusing on the effects of environmental factors on human health and disease. The tuition is $12,488.

• Required Credits: 90
• Completion Time: 3 years
• Format: Online

What we love about Indiana University Bloomington:

IU Bloomington is a diverse and welcoming campus with more than 140 countries represented in the student body and 175 multicultural, international student organizations.

Indiana University Bloomington is ideal for students who:

Want a community with faculty that treats you like family.

IU Bloomington might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer a more homogenous or conservative environment.

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• #25 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Lawrence Ferlinghetti
• Francis Collins
• James E. Webb
• Howard T. Odum
• Jeffrey Beall
• Charles Tart
• Robert F. Furchgott
• Sidney Powell
• Christine Blasey Ford
• David Brinkley
• James Rachels

Public research school University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the flagship campus of the University of North Carolina system. Considered a Public Ivy, it is a public institution that offers an academic experience similar to that of an Ivy League university.

The Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership at UNC-Chapel Hill is suitable for mid-to senior-level professionals who want to seek the skills needed to assume top-level roles in public health practice in their private or public sector settings at the local, national, and international levels. The tuition fee is $11,110.

• Required Credits: 45

What we love about UNC-Chapel Hill:

With more than 230 years of public service, UNC is dedicated to equipping students with the courage to influence change and a voice for critical thought.

UNC-Chapel Hill is ideal for students who:

Want to be a part of the country’s first public university with centuries-old traditions and a well-connected alumni network.

Chapel Hill (UNC) might not be the best fit for students who:

Do not prioritize or not interested in outreach and engagement with their local and wider communities.

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Pennsylvania State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Earth Sciences
• Engineering
• Criminal Justice
• Steven Levy
• Graham Harman
• Douglas Comer
• Benjamin Bloom
• Harry J. Anslinger
• Iris Marion Young
• T. Colin Campbell
• John Mashey
• Thomas R. Dye

Penn State World Campus is the Pennsylvania State University’s online campus. It offers more than 175 online ungraduated and graduate degree and certificate programs in partnership with Penn State academic units, with more programs being added to the curriculum on a continuing basis.

This online school’s Doctor of Public Health is designed to provide students with the necessary advanced public health education and training. Graduates are prepared for evidence-based practice and translational science leadership. The tuition fee is $18,194.

• Required Credits: 45 for coursework, plus 15 for doctoral research
• Completion Time: 3-4 years

What we love about Pennsylvania State University:

Whether online or on-campus courses, Penn State offers the same quality education to its students.

Pennsylvania State University is ideal for students who:

Want a career-centered curriculum developed based on the latest industry updates.

Pennsylvania State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer to physically see or be with their peers or cohorts, as many of the courses are available online.

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• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)

Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of Illinois Chicago

University of Illinois Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• William A. Dembski
• Polykarp Kusch
• Joseph Mercola
• Nancy Cartwright
• David Schweickart
• Bernard Shaw
• Al Jourgensen
• Timothy Shanahan
• Georgiann Davis
• Adrian Smith
• Richard Hunt
• Thomas A. DeFanti

The University of Illinois at Chicago , a public research university, has 15 campuses and an online school. It offers 94 masters and 62 doctoral degree programs, including the online Doctor of Public Health Leadership.

UIC’s online Ph.D. in Public Health Leadership is designed for mid-career public health professionals who wish to broaden their knowledge and practice of public health and improve their leadership capacities to address complex challenges. The tuition fee is $11,884.

• Required Credits: 96
• Completion Time: 4-6 years

What we love about University of Illinois Chicago:

UIC is one of the country’s most diverse campuses with a commitment to fostering accessibility to underrepresented students.

University of Illinois Chicago is ideal for students who:

Want to be a part of a culturally and ethnically diverse learning community to broaden their worldview and perspective.

University of Illinois Chicago might not be the best fit for students who:

Want to study in a university with a more rural environment.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of South Florida

University of South Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Joe Barresi
• Shlomo Sawilowsky
• Tony La Russa
• Saraju Mohanty
• Joanna Fowler
• J. Budziszewski
• Eric M. Bost
• Susan Cutter
• David A. Wolfe
• Randy Borum

The University of South Florida in Tampa, is a public research university that is one of the 12 schools in the State University System of Florida and offers more than 180 academic programs through both traditional and online formats.

USF’s online Doctor of Public Health program prepares students for leadership roles in health departments, nonprofit organizations, international agencies, and community-based organizations. The tuition is $11,766.

• Required Credits: 43
• Completion Time: 2-3 years

What we love about University of South Florida:

USF is internationally recognized for its leading research initiatives in technology, science, engineering, and medicine.

University of South Florida is ideal for students who:

Want several options on extracurricular activities and love sporting events.

USF might not be the best fit for students who:

Do not find the learning environment of huge campuses appealing.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Kent State University

Kent State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• G. William Domhoff
• David Sedaris
• Stephen R. Donaldson
• Connie Schultz
• Lawrence Schick
• Michael Keaton
• Chrissie Hynde
• Dolph Ziggler

One of Ohio’s leading public universities, Kent State is located in northeastern Ohio, about 40 miles south of Cleveland. The school has seven regional campuses scattered across the state and offers more than 300 academic programs.

Kent State provides numerous online programs, including its PhD in Public Health specializing in Health Policy and Management with a concentration in Health Policy and Management. The program prepares graduate students for a career in public health research, which calls for interdisciplinary skills to meet community health and global health challenges of the field. The tuition fee is $18,156.

• Required Credits: 91
• Completion Time: within 10 years

What we love about Kent State University:

Dedicated to preparing students for the real-life employment in Ohio, Kent State University has provided a $5-billion economic impact throughout the state.

Kent State University is ideal for students who:

Are looking for hundreds of opportunities in education-abroad programs in at least 60 countries.

Kent State University might not be the best fit for students who:

Do not prefer studying in a large campus with open spaces.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of Montana

University of Montana’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Harold Urey
• Bruce L. Benson
• Jack Horner
• Lindsey Doe
• Mike Mansfield
• Jeannette Rankin
• William Finnegan
• Brian Wesbury
• Jim Messina
• Earl Douglass
• James R. Browning

The University of Montana is a public research university in Missoula, Montana, and is the flagship institution of the Montana University System. Students at UM can choose from any of its nearly 400 areas of study, with internship opportunities and career potentials that can take them anywhere in the world, with little to no student loan debt.

UM offers its PhD in public health , designed to prepare the next generation of public health research team scientists who will work across various disciplines to produce new knowledge. Applicants must hold a Master of Public Health (or equivalent) degree before enrollment. The tuition fee is an astoundingly affordable $4,716 for residents.

• Required Credits: 60
• Completion Time: 2 years

What we love about University of Montana:

Research opportunities and facilities abound in this University renowned for its quality education.

University of Montana is ideal for students who:

Have no problems balancing their academic life and extracurricular activities.

University of Montana might not be most suitable for students who:

Are easily distracted from their academic studies by the abundance of outdoor activities available in the area.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of Alabama at Birmingham

University of Alabama at Birmingham’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Rebecca Bace
• Ray L. Watts
• Eli Capilouto
• Lawrence J. DeLucas
• Hadiyah-Nicole Green
• Graeme McDowell
• David B. Allison
• Clancy Blair
• Bruce R. Korf
• Selwyn M. Vickers
• Ricardo Azziz
• Jason Aaron

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is a public research university in Birmingham, Alabama. It offers 140 programs of study in 12 academic divisions leading to bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees in various fields.

UAB offers its comprehensive online doctorate in public health that takes seven years to complete. It has four concentrations: biostatistics, health policy and organization, maternal and child health policy, and outcomes research. The tuition fee is $11,040, in-state, and $26,520 out-of-state.

• Required Credits: 42
• Completion Time: up to 7 years, depending on the concentration

What we love about UAB:

The University offers a range of specialized courses and research opportunities, particularly in the fields of global and community leadership, and science and technology.

UAB is ideal for students who:

Are not easily distracted from their academic studies despite the plenty of partying and other Greek life activities in the school.

UAB might not be the best fit for students who:

Find it challenging or uncomfortable to constantly tackle the major problems that modern society is facing.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at East Carolina University

East Carolina University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Constance Bumgarner Gee
• Chris Johnson
• James Dodson
• Kevin Williamson
• Timothy Z. Keith
• Blue Edwards
• S. Gregory Boyd
• David Ginty
• Barbara Trader Faires
• Tony Collins

East Carolina University is located in Greenville, North Carolina. This public research university is the fourth-largest university in North Carolina. The school offers 77 master’s programs, 15 doctoral programs, 50 graduate certificates, and 6 first-professional programs.

ECU’s Doctor of Public Health program has two concentrations: Environmental and Occupational Health (EOH) and Health Policy, Administration, & Leadership (HPAL). Students must have a relevant master’s degree before enrollment, otherwise, they will have to take both master’s and doctoral-level courses.

• Required Credits: 75

What we love about East Carolina University:

ECU consistently delivers quality education and graduates that make a difference in the health sectors of the region as well as nationwide.

East Carolina University is ideal for students who:

Value social responsibility and civic engagement, as ECU highlights community engagement and service-learning initiatives.

ECU might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer a graduate program with a strong liberal arts focus.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Justin Verlander
• Nancy Lieberman
• Serkan Golge
• Ticha Penicheiro
• Linda B. Hayden
• Richard C. McCarty
• Kent Bazemore
• Bonita V. Saunders
• Sarah McCoy
• Jack T. Kirby
• Philip C. Kendall

Old Dominion University , located in Norfolk, Virginia, is a public research university and is one of the biggest universities in the state. The school offers more than 100 academic programs, and students get to choose from any of the more than 300 clubs and organizations in their spare time.

ODU’s online Ph.D. in Nurse Executive program aims to improve leaders and problem solvers in the nursing industry whose professional services will help advance the health of the population not only in Eastern Virginia, but also nationally and internationally. The tuition is $15,213.

• Required Credits: 36
• Completion Time: 1-2 years

What we love about Old Dominion University:

The University provides experiential learning opportunities so that students can gain the knowledge and skills necessary for the real world of employment.

Old Dominion University is ideal for students who:

Want to be a part of a prestigious public research institution in a metropolitan area.

ODU might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer a learning environment in a more urban setting.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Dick Enberg
• Anthony Zinni
• Clark Howard
• Helen Murray Free
• Steven Radelet
• C. W. Thornthwaite
• Arthur Stinchcombe
• John Grogan
• James A. Berlin
• Chris Kaman
• William Benoit
• James C. Renick

Public research institution Central Michigan University is home to more than 300 academic programs across seven colleges in its Mount Pleasant campus.

The school offers the Doctor of Health Administration program designed to prepare students to become more effective healthcare leaders with a deeper knowledge in many key areas. The tuition is $850 per credit hour.

• Required Credits: 63
• Completion Time: 3-5 years

What we love about Central Michigan University:

CMU is dedicated to providing every student an inclusive and equitable learning environment.

Central Michigan University is ideal for students who:

Prefer to study in large, public universities with research opportunities.

Central Michigan University might not be the best fit for students who:

Are looking for Doctorate programs in the field of Humanities, Business, and Fine Arts.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Walden University

Walden University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• John Antonakis
• Eboni Edmonson Haynes

Walden University is a private online for-profit university located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs and over 260 concentrations and specializations.

Walden University’s online Ph.D. in Public Health program is number one in the US. Students can build upon their skills and expertise to become more effective scholar-practitioners and make significant contributions to advancing wellness among diverse populations. The tuition fee is $610 per credit hour.

• Required Credits: 83
• Completion Time: 8 years

What we love about Walden University:

The University is recognized for its high-quality distance programs for higher education that are suitable for working professionals.

Walden University is ideal for students who:

Want a more structured approach with weekly goals in completing their doctorate.

Walden University might not be most suitable for students who:

Are not committed or find it challenging to meet professional-level expectations.

Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences is a private university that primarily offers medical and health-related science degree programs. This Boston-based college provides conventional and accelerated programs in the health sciences and health education discipline.

MCPHS offers an online Doctor of Health Sciences degree. This program is designed to prepare educators, clinicians, and leaders to meet the future challenges of health professions and education through evidence-based practice. The tuition is $1,325 per credit hour.

• Required Credits: 54
• Completion Time: 9 semesters (part-time)

What we love about MCPHS:

MCPHS is considered as one of the top transformative U.S. colleges where practice and academia are combined for students to gain hands-on experiences on real-life health science scenarios.

MCPHS is ideal for students who:

Are seeking quality education that prepares them for real-life industry situations through experiential learning.

MCPHS might not be the best fit for students who:

Are considering careers that are not related to health sciences.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Capella University

Capella University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Arthur Seale
• Tammy Duckworth
• Xavier Woods
• Ethan F. Becker
• Brandt Smith
• Annesa Flentje

Capella University is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This private for-profit online university is owned by the publicly traded Strategic Education, Inc, and has 52 programs and nearly 2,000 online courses!

Capella University’s online Doctor of Public Health teaches students to apply research to design public health programs, create solutions to address long-term and immediate health issues, identify emerging trends, and lead with integrity. The tuition fee is $14,365.

What we love about Capella University:

The University offers a range of support services for their online students such as enrollment counselors, faculty members with doctoral statuses, and academic coaches.

Capella University is ideal for students who:

Are looking for cost reduction opportunities without sacrificing quality education.

Capella University might not be most suitable for students who:

Want a university with a more rigorous enrollment screening, as Capella University has a 100% admission rate.

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Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Nebraska Methodist College

Nebraska Methodist College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health is located in Omaha, Nebraska. This private Methodist college offers popular majors including Radiologic Technician, Nursing, and Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician.

The school’s MSN/MHP to DNP - Public Health Policy is an online program designed to produce nurses who are experts in evidence-based practice, allowing them to serve as consultants, mentors, and researchers. The tuition fee is $20,836, and financial aid is available.

• Required Credits: 50 + 960 clinical practice hours
• Completion Time: 24 months full-time, 3-4 years part-time

What we love about Nebraska Methodist College:

The University is committed to the success of students through the support services offered both online and on campus.

Nebraska Methodist College is ideal for students who:

Are interested in the career of nursing, allied health and related sectors.

Nebraska Methodist College might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer a career that isn’t related to the healthcare industry.

Career Outlook for Students with Public Health Degree

Public health, degree level: doctorate.

• Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
• Avg. Cost of Degree*: $12,330
• Avg. Expenses*: $18,957
• Avg. Starting Salary*: $72,098
• Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $80,795
• Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 9 years
• Job Growth: 23.19%
• Number of Jobs: 899,900
• * denotes ‘annually’
• ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Average career salaries, promising job markets, top industries, how much does an online phd in public health cost.

Doctorate degrees in public health typically cost graduate students anywhere between $17,000 and $53,000 (or between $385 and $875 per credit) depending on the type of university, the school’s residency rules, program length, and other fees, if any.

It is worthwhile to note that many online doctorate degree programs in public health may charge a higher tuition rate for non-state residents, but there are affordable online doctoral programs that charge a flat tuition rate regardless of graduate student state residency.

Can I get an affordable online doctorate degree in public health?

Yes, there are a number of affordable online doctoral programs in public health. A growing number of highly reputable universities provide partially or fully online doctoral programs. Time management is one of the biggest challenges facing doctoral students. Balancing coursework, career, and family demands makes online PhD programs especially attractive.

Earning an online doctorate degree as opposed to a traditional on-campus doctorate degree makes it possible to save money on expenses like housing, transportation, and certain campus fees. However some schools may still charge a technology fee whether attending school online or on campus.

Online PhD programs also make it possible to continue working in your field, which means you can complete your degree program while still earning a living. This can ultimately reduce your dependence on student loan debt.

If affordability is a particular concern, and it is making you reluctant to pursue a public health doctoral program, you may be able to take advantage of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

For more information on financial aid, check out the Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid website. Note that to qualify for financial aid, the college or university that you attend must be accredited.

Many schools offering PhD degree programs have assistantship opportunities for their doctoral students. Assistantship may give teaching opportunities in exchange for tuition waivers and a stipend. Each school is different, so you will need to check into the online public health doctorate degree program you are interested in.

If a cheap online doctorate degree is important to you, you have options! Check out our other cheap degree rankings .

Bottom Line: Affordable online doctoral programs are possible when you factor in things like in-state tuition, financial aid, grants, and assitantships.

Image Attributions

• Image Source for Pennsylvania State University

Most Affordable Online Doctorate in Education (EdD) Programs for 2024

Organizations require great leadership to reach their full potential and weather the worst storms. If you are looking to become a more effective and thoughtful manager or team leader, you may be considering a graduate degree program. For people who are further along in their careers and looking for a more flexible option, an online Ed.D. program in organizational leadership may be a good fit. But earning a doctorate degree requires a big investment of both time and money. So Fortune has ranked eight online Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) programs by affordability. Tuition amounts were compiled using data provided by schools for our ranking of the best online Ed.D. programs in 2022. If schools did not provide the total tuition cost of the program, we multiplied the cost per credit amount by the minimum credit hours required to graduate. Cost per credit amounts were either provided by schools or taken from the program webpage. This ranking was last updated December 2022.

Online Ed.D. from Top-5-Ranked Peabody College

1. Trevecca Nazarene University

• ACCEPTANCE RATE
• CREDITS REQUIRED TO GRADUATE
• RETENTION RATE

2. Abilene Christian University

3. Spalding University

Hawai‘i Pacific University M.Ed. in Educational Leadership

4. Virginia Commonwealth University

5. University of Dayton

6. Drexel University

7. Baylor University

8. Vanderbilt University

Maryville University’s Doctor of Education | Online

Update to 2024 Best Graduate Schools Launch

Best Medical Schools, Best Engineering Schools and Best Clinical Psychology Programs launch delayed.

Update for 2024 Best Grad Schools Launch

During our regular rankings pre-publication process, U.S. News received and is currently reviewing queries from some graduate schools, including whether and to what extent affiliated institutions were considered in the bibliometric data used in the 2024 Best Medical Schools and 2024 Best Engineering Schools rankings, and which accrediting body was used as a source of reference for the 2024 Best Clinical Psychology Programs rankings. We take our role as a journalism enterprise very seriously and we will not publish information without full confidence in what we publish.

As a result, we have made the decision to delay the publication of the 2024 Best Medical Schools, Best Engineering Schools and Best Clinical Psychology Program rankings until such time that we can appropriately address these questions. All other graduate school rankings – across 82 professional fields – will be released as planned on April 9.

Our focus remains on providing the best information for prospective students.

We will provide updates with more information as to the timing of these rankings as soon as we are able.

About Morse Code: Inside the College Rankings

Robert Morse is chief data strategist for U.S. News & World Report and has worked at the company since 1976. He develops the methodologies and surveys for the Best Colleges and Best Graduate Schools annual rankings, keeping an eye on higher-education trends to make sure the rankings offer prospective students the best analysis available. Morse Code provides deeper insights into the methodologies and is a forum for commentary and analysis of college, grad and other rankings.

2024 Best Colleges

Search for your perfect fit with the U.S. News rankings of colleges and universities.

U.S. News & World Report Ranks UH Graduate Programs Among Nation’s Best in 2024

Four UH Graduate Programs Rank in Top 10, 17 in Top 50

By Shawn Lindsey — 713-743-5725

• University and Campus
• Student, Faculty and Staff Success

The University of Houston is once again proving that it is a powerhouse in graduate education, with 13 of its programs securing spots among the top 50 nationwide in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report graduate program rankings, released today. Three engineering programs maintain their top 50 rank pending the release of 2024 engineering rankings, which have been delayed. In total, UH has 17 programs in the top 50.

A total of four UH graduate programs rank in the top 10 nationwide, including three from the UH Law Center: Health Care Law (No. 7), Part-Time Law (No. 8) and Intellectual Property Law (No. 8). The Petroleum Engineering program in the Cullen College of Engineering maintains its No. 9 ranking pending forthcoming rankings in the discipline. Since 2020, UH has seen a 70% increase in the number of graduate programs earning a top 50 ranking.

“Being acknowledged among the nation's top performers in these vital fields is truly gratifying and affirms the national prestige of these programs and the caliber of faculty, staff and students,” said Diane Z. Chase, UH senior vice president for academic affairs and provost.  “Delivering top-tier professional and graduate programs and positioning students for success in their respective fields of graduate study is integral to our vision of ascending as a top 50 public university.”

This year, seven UH Law Center specialty programs are ranked among the Top 50 in the country, with three ranked No. 1 in the state of Texas.

Top 50 Ranked UH Graduate Programs Nationwide:

• Health Care Law (No. 7)
• Part-Time Law (No. 8)
• Intellectual Property Law (No. 8)
• Petroleum Engineering (No. 9)*
• Trial Advocacy (No. 13)
• Online Overall Graduate Education Program (No. 14)
• Legal Writing (No. 16)
• Environmental Law (No. 30)
• Tax Law (No. 32)
• Chemical Engineering (No. 34)*
• International Law (No. 38)
• Pharmacy (No. 41)
• Dispute Resolution Law (No. 42)
• Business Part-Time MBA (No. 45)
• Speech-Language Pathology (No. 44)
• Industrial Manufacturing (No. 50)*
• Political Science (No. 50)**

*2023 ranking; U.S. News has delayed 2024 engineering program rankings

**discipline not ranked in 2024 but maintains a previous top 50 ranking

Each year, U.S. News ranks professional school programs in business, education, engineering, law, medicine, and nursing, including specialties in each area. The rankings are based on enrollment numbers, job placement rates, faculty statistics, and other essential quality indicators designed to help prospective students make informed decisions.

“Deciding where to attend graduate school can be formidable, considering the wealth of schools with distinctive and quality programs,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. “The Best Graduate Schools rankings and related content empower prospective students to choose the best fi t for their educational needs and ultimately achieve career success.”

The top programs in the nation earn “best of” recognition by U.S. News. UH made the following 2024 graduate program lists:

• Best Business Schools
• Best Health Schools
• Best Public Affairs Schools
• Best Science Schools
• Best Law Schools
• Best Education Schools

To see all of the graduate program rankings, or to learn more about the ranking methodology, visit the  U.S. News & World Report website .

Top Stories

April 09, 2024

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Three Renowned Argonne Scientists Accept Joint Appointments at the University of Houston

Three top researchers with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory have accepted joint appointments in various capacities at the University of Houston. This strategic collaboration furthers critical research efforts, public-private partnerships and educational opportunities for students.

• Science, Energy and Innovation

March 28, 2024

Predicting Weight Gain in Children Using Second Generation Anti-Psychotic Medication

Research from the University of Houston College of Pharmacy indicates that preventing clinically significant weight gain in children using second-generation antipsychotic medicine may be possible.

• Health and Medicine

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School of Education

High rankings reflect strong graduate programs at the iu school of education.

By Catherine Winkler

Tuesday, April 09, 2024

The IU School of Education has been recognized again as one of the best graduate schools in education across the country by U.S. News and World Report’s 2024-2025 “Best Graduate Schools .”

Overall, the IU School of Education is ranked #34, two spots higher than last year, with eight graduate specialty programs ranked in the top 20. All specialty programs rose in rankings compared to last year.

“Our graduate programs contribute groundbreaking research and work that advances education around the world, and these rankings are evidence of both that hard work and our dedication to these programs,” said IU School of Education Dean Anastasia Morrone .

“Graduate programs across the School of Education are held in very high regard, which is a reflection of the stellar research, education, and outreach done by our faculty and alumni around the globe,” said Thomas Nelson Laird , Associate Dean for Graduate Studies.

• Student Counseling and Personal Service - #3
• Elementary Education - #5
• Higher Education Administration #9
• Secondary Education - #8
• Curriculum and Instruction - #14
• Educational Psychology - #18
• Educational Administration and Supervision - #14
• Education Policy - #18

Graduate programs at the School of Education prepare students for careers that make a difference through education fields or other professions. From working in schools and public institutions to jobs in government, corporate environments and technology companies, our graduates affect change and make the world a better place through their work. Many of these programs are also offered online, making them a flexible option for professionals looking to further their education.

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