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The Top 10 Easiest PhDs: Tuition, Duration, and Financial Aid

If you’re wondering what the easiest doctorate degree is, this really depends on your definition of easy.

You may find a lengthy research dissertation challenging, or you may love writing and struggle with mathematical or analytical assignments. Equally, depending on your lifestyle, a flexible program that allows you to study online at your own pace could be much more manageable. Or it may be better to go all-in on an accelerated program that you can finish in a short space of time.

With all these factors and more in mind, you can learn about the easiest PhDs available today across various fields.

Table of Contents

The Easiest PhD Majors

Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and we all excel in different areas. Having said that, a significant proportion of people find math and science challenging, so many people will find the following majors the easiest PhDs to get:

• Religion/Theology

However, the easiest PhD for you could be quite different. If you have a head for numbers but don’t do so well with languages, you mind find a PhD in mathematics or engineering much easier.

Your interests also come into play: it’s always easier to apply yourself to a topic that you’re passionate about.

The Easiest PhD Programs

We’ve ranked the following programs based on various criteria to find the easiest doctoral degrees across a range of disciplines while mostly staying away from courses heavy in maths and science, as areas that people typically find challenging.

We looked for programs that offer a high level of flexibility, making it easy to fit your studies around other parts of your life. We also prioritized shorter programs that allow you to earn your doctorate in record time and progress with your career and avoided those with lengthy dissertation requirements.

Walden University, The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences

PhD in Education – Higher Education Leadership and Policy (Self-Designed)

Walden University was named first in the USA  for PhD Education graduates. This is one of the easiest PhD programs to get into, as the University has an acceptance rate of 100%. It is also one of the shortest PhD programs in the field, offering a fast-track option that allows you to transfer up to 50% of your total credits and finish the program sooner.

• Courses include: Leading the future of education, education law, policy & governance, and higher education in the 21st century.
• Credits: 86 quarter credits
• Duration: 3-8 years
• Delivery: Online
• Tuition : $692 per quarter hour
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Capella University

PhD in Psychology – General Psychology

Capella University offers a wide range of online programs for students looking for ongoing education with a high degree of flexibility, including being able to study at their own pace. This PhD in Psychology is also one of the easiest online PhD programs, as it gives you the option to complete the doctorate in as little as five quarters.

• Courses include: Ethics & multicultural issues in psychology, advanced inferential statistics, and quantitative research methods in psychology.
• Credits: 87
• Duration: 5-9 quarters
• Tuition : $545
• Financial aid: Scholarships, employer discounts, and military benefits

The University of Florida, Department of Classics

PhD in Classical Studies

The US News & World Report named the University of Florida one of the top 5 public research universities  in the USA for 2023. With a focus on the humanities, many people will find this PhD program relatively easy, focusing on subjects like languages, culture, and history.

• Courses include: Greek prose composition, the roman tradition, and Latin prose composition.
• Credits: 60
• Duration: 3 years
• Delivery: On-campus
• Tuition : $12,744
• Financial aid: Fellowships, scholarships, and teaching assistantships
• Acceptance rate: 31%
• Location: Gainesville, Florida

Faulkner University

Doctor of Philosophy in Humanities

Faulkner University was founded on Christian principles and offers many flexible programs designed to help students balance their education with their other commitments. This is one of the easiest PhD programs because you can complete it in just 48 credit hours while gaining a global intellectual and spiritual perspective through courses covering thought, ideas, and literature in the Western tradition.

• Courses include: Scholarly inquiry & writing in the humanities, historical investigations, and literary analysis.
• Credits: 48
• Duration: 3 years+
• Tuition : $650 per semester hour
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 76%
• Location: Montgomery, Alabama

Regent University

PhD in Renewal Theology

Regent University is a popular private institution that offers programs in over 150 areas of study, including some easy PhD programs that can be completed with very flexible study arrangements. This theology doctorate program aims to create future church leaders with a global outlook based on a Renewal approach to history and contemporary issues.

• Courses include: Advanced hermeneutics, renewal theology, and advanced cosmogony & anthropology.
• Duration: 4 years+
• Delivery: Online (with 2-week on-campus residency each fall)
• Tuition : $670 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 50%
• Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia

Boston University, College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College

Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PP-OTD)

Boston University is a private institution ranked #1  in occupational therapy by the US News & World Report. This PP-OTD is one of the easiest doctorate degrees in physical therapy because you can complete it in just 18 months. It aims to equip practicing therapists for higher leadership roles capable of innovatively addressing the field’s key challenges.

• Courses include: Social policy & disability, health promotion & wellness, and evaluating clinical theory & research.
• Credits: 33-37
• Duration: 18 months
• Tuition: Varies
• Financial aid: Scholarships, employer reimbursement, and federal loans
• Acceptance rate: 20%
• Location: Boston, Massachusetts

The University of Tennessee Knoxville, College of Social Work

Doctor of Social Work (DSW) in Clinical Practice & Leadership

The College of Social Work is a higher education institution that strives to provide exemplary education in social work. It’s also heavily involved in international projects, which allows students to develop a global perspective on the sector. You could consider this DSW to be an easy doctorate degree, as an accelerated program designed to train existing clinical social workers in advanced clinical practice and leadership.

• Courses include: Neuroscience for clinical practice, psychopathology & psychopharmacology, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, graduate assistantships, veteran services, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 78%
• Location: Knoxville, Tennessee

New York University, School of Law

Juris Doctor (JD)

New York University is one of the largest private universities in the country, with campuses and academic centers across the globe. In this JD program, students enjoy a strong blend of theory of law and practice through the school’s more than forty legal clinics.

• Courses include: Constitutional law, survey of criminal procedure, and international law.
• Credits: 83
• Duration: 5 years
• Tuition : $73,216
• Financial aid: Scholarships, fellowships, veteran benefits, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 21%
• Location: New York City, New York

North Carolina State University, College of Design

Doctor of Design (DDes)

NC State University is among the top 1% of universities worldwide, according to the Center for World University Rankings. This program encourages practicing professionals to develop innovative concepts and promote them more generally in the design community and society. It is an easy doctorate degree in design in that you can complete it in three years or even less.

• Courses include: Research methods in design, case study analysis in design, and design for health & wellbeing.
• Credits: 57
• Delivery: Online (with one week of on-campus study every semester)
• Tuition : $505.28
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, student employment, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 46%
• Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Frontier Nursing University

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Frontier Nursing University is a not-for-profit institution with several accolades for nursing education, ranking third  for online master’s family nurse practitioner programs. The program is designed for working professionals and emphasizes evidence-based practice, with a quality improvement project in collaboration with your chosen clinical site. With this easy doctorate program, you can earn the highest nursing qualification in mere 15-18 months.

• Courses include: Epidemiology & biostatistics, ethics & health policy, and leadership & organizational dynamics.
• Credits: 30
• Duration: 15-18 months
• Delivery: Online (with 3-day on-campus orientation)
• Tuition: $19,380
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, employer benefits, veteran benefits, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 66%
• Location: Versailles, Kentucky

What’s the Difference Between a Professional Degree and a Doctorate?

A PhD program largely focuses on theoretical learning and the analytical aspects of the discipline you’re studying. It typically involves extensive research presented in a lengthy thesis or dissertation, often proposing a new theory or innovative findings.

On the other hand, a professional doctorate or master’s degree emphasizes gaining knowledge for practical applications and does not typically involve a dissertation. While a PhD can make you an erudite scholar well-equipped to work in research or academia, a professional degree typically leads to a career path as a professional in the industry, government, or nonprofit sector.

FAQs about the Easiest PhDs

Which phd is the easiest to get.

The PhD you’ll find easiest will depend on your own strengths and weaknesses and your passions. Generally, most people will find doctorates in the arts and humanities the easiest. Flexible programs that can be completed online and accelerated ones with a shorter overall time commitment are the easiest to complete in terms of meeting other life commitments.

Which Subject Is Easy for a PhD?

Subjects like the humanities, education, theology, and psychology are generally considered the easiest, mostly because they involve less quantitative research and rely on qualitative study methods.

Final Thoughts

The easiest PhD for you will depend on your own talents, weaknesses, and which practical aspects of the program will make it easiest for you to earn your doctorate. Many people find the arts and humanities easier than science and math, though your passion for any subject can make studying it relatively easy. Having the flexibility to study online , at your own pace, or alternatively, in a shorter, more intensive period like a 1-year PhD program  can also make it easier to finish your PhD.

Although easiness is one factor to consider when choosing the right PhD for you, it certainly isn’t everything. Most importantly, you should opt for the program that matches your interests and is most likely to help you achieve your career and life goals.

Want to explore more options? Check out our list of the highest paying PhDs  to learn about the programs that will give you the best return on your investment.

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/ 12 Best Laptops for Computer Science Students
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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.

Find Your School in 5 Minutes or Less

Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!

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.

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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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!

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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The 20 Shortest Doctoral Programs Available

Find your perfect school.

According to PremiumSchools’ chief editor, Malcolm Peralty, “These speedy doctoral programs are your fast track to becoming a leader in what you love. Dive into a world of valuable knowledge, grab those must-have skills, and step out as the go-to expert in your field. Your shortcut to a successful career is right here, ready and waiting!”

With the rapid innovation of education, many academic institutions offer accelerated or shortest doctoral programs in various academic disciplines. Reputable colleges and universities are known for their state-of-the-art resources and tools, facilities, research works, and funding to support professional students.

The following article has been reviewed by Malcolm Peralty

Quick Summarization of the Shortest Doctoral Programs Available Completing the shortest doctoral program is an important aspect of professional students wanting to advance in the current roles of their profession. Since they come with convenience and flexibility, doctoral programs with shorter lengths allow students to work and study without compromising their obligations. These programs also provide non-traditional doctoral students and career shifters with excellent alternatives, especially those who can’t afford traditional doctoral programs or don’t have the luxury of time to complete their graduate studies.

While doctorate studies are considered the culminating term that marks students’ finale of their academic venture, they often require a lot of discipline, effort, time, and resources to obtain. Doctorate credentials are highly desired for professional students wanting to pursue advanced roles or participate in high research activities.

The 20 Shortest Doctorate Careers and School Selections

Let’s get started!

Doctorate in Psychology/General Psychology

Unlike the traditional equivalent, the online Doctorate in Psychology or Doctorate in General Psychology is one of the shortest doctoral programs available. Instead of completing the 6- to 8-year program, accelerated doctorate in psychology programs can be completed in less than three years.

This online program is a terminal degree that helps professional students understand how people behave and think, covering various specializations, including clinical psychology, health & wellness psychology, sport & performance psychology, and business psychology. 

The online Doctorate in Psychology program is a heavy research-based academic program, emphasizing research and development of analytical and critical thinking proficiencies. Although each school has different study plans, some of the most common sets of coursework include:

• ethics and multicultural issues
• quantitative research methods
• qualitative analysis
• counseling theories
• tests and measurements

Doctoral students should also expect dissertations and practicums to be a part of the doctorate program’s culminating requirements.

Doctoral programs in Psychology help prepare students for numerous career opportunities in consultancy, academia, research, organization, healthcare, and private practices. 

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Psychology:

• Capella University
• The University of Arizona
• Walden University

Doctorate in Behavioral Health

With an average completion period of three years, the Doctorate in Behavioral Health is one of the shortest doctoral programs in psychology. It is designed for licensed, working clinical professionals interested in furthering their education and knowledge, offering holistic medical services to help individuals improve their well-being through behavioral changes. 

Professional students pursuing an online Doctorate in Behavioral Health will receive advanced training and learning opportunities in entrepreneurship, medical literacy, and behavioral interventions. They will learn in-depth how mental health affects their clients’ overall well-being and discover the different approaches to resolving issues through counseling, therapies, behavioral interventions, and other clinical approaches.

Graduates with DBH credentials don’t have licensing requirements. However, they are required to have certifications in the practice of their profession. They also participate in and conduct extensive research studies that highlight the behavioral and mental health aspects. Unlike licensed psychologists and psychiatrists, DBH graduates aren’t allowed to diagnose clients with mental health issues.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Behavioral Health:

• Arizona State University
• Cummings Graduate Institute
• Freed-Hardeman University

Doctorate in Business Administration

Many schools offer a variety of online Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA), making it one of the most popular and shortest doctoral programs available. It is a doctorate program that prepares students for management and leadership roles in different organizations within the local and global markets.

The DBA program is ideal for professional students desiring advanced studies for career advancements in business, including government sectors, non-profit organizations, and for-profit companies. Graduates can also work in the academe as professors, deans, and other school administrative roles.

Unlike MBA programs, the Doctorate of Business Administration program has a more exclusive curriculum. Although most schools offer online coursework, some will require in-person residencies during summer terms. Professional students are expected to complete a set of required courses, dissertation work, comprehensive examination, and final defense as part of the program requirements of their DBA programs. 

Many schools also allow students to specialize in their preferred academic discipline, including marketing, management & organizations, leadership, information technology management, accounting, or finance. Students who are more inclined to work in the field of education can also pursue an online Ph.D. in Business Administration, focusing more on research work rather than applied learning.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Business Administration:

• Hampton University (Hybrid)
• National University
• Trident University

Doctor of Nursing Practice

One of the most popular doctoral programs offering fast-tracked learning is the Doctor of Nursing Practice. It is an ideal program for working nurse practitioners, helping them learn more about evidence-based practices.

Through the online Doctor of Nursing Practice program, students will have advanced knowledge of complex decision-making, management, and healthcare practices. Depending on the students’ learning commitments and pace, the online Doctor of Nursing Practice program can be completed within two years on average.

Considered a professional, practice-focused doctorate program, the online Doctor of Nursing Practice program will prepare nursing professionals to be industry leaders who deliver advanced-level nursing care and state-of-the-art healthcare outcomes.

Apart from advanced clinical roles, pursuing the Doctor of Nursing Practice program will help students conduct teaching and research initiatives in higher education. Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates complete a set of coursework that emphasizes healthcare ethics, statistical analysis, organizational social and behavioral policies, and evidence-based research and practice.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctor of Nursing Practice:

• Duquesne University
• The Pennsylvania State University
• The University of Alabama

Doctorate in Management

Completing a Doctorate in Management program is possible in less than three or four years, making it a popular option for professional students who prefer the shortest doctoral programs available. Many schools offer transfer-friendly Doctorate in Management programs that combine highly desirable skills in technology and communication with core technical components of quality research. It is a terminal degree that prepares students for various rewarding professions in the public and private sectors.

Professional students will develop crucial writing and research skills to publish a dissertation throughout the online Doctorate in Management program. Each dissertation of students will highlight their proficiencies to identify a particular area of interest within the modern workplace, test their hypothesis in real-world applications, and develop effective solutions to specific business-related challenges.

Some schools offer a variety of concentrations to choose from implemented into the online Doctorate of Management program, including information technology, human resource management, conflict management, and strategic management.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Management:

• Franklin University
• Indiana State University
• Sullivan University

Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Given that the online Doctor of Occupational Therapy program can be completed within 18 to 24 months, it is one of the shortest doctoral programs sought-after by students in the field. It is a post-professional occupational therapy program designed for licensed occupational therapists pursuing advanced skills and expertise applicable in the workplace. 

While most schools offer online doctoral programs in Occupational Therapy, their programs are integrated with on-campus opportunities. They provide students with a space to present their work to various professional audiences, participate in engaging services, and collaborate with professional leaders within the industry.

All courses are evidence-based, advocating a wide spectrum of knowledge of certain topics, including quality improvement, social policy & disability, educational theory & practice, theories of change, and health promotion & wellness.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctor of Occupational Therapy:

• Fairleigh Dickinson University
• University of Pittsburgh

Doctor of Public Administration

Professional students with a Doctor of Public Administration program have earned their doctorate credentials within three to four years. Considered one of the shortest doctorate programs, the DPA program only requires a minimum of 49 credit hours of coursework and dissertation work.

The doctorate program is designed to develop the skills and expertise of innovative leaders who prefer maximizing impact in non-profit, private, and public organizations.

While each university has a unique set of coursework requirements, most online Doctor of Public Administration programs include courses in employment discrimination law, ethics, and social justice, government regulations and administrative law, leadership in public sectors, and introduction to public service management.

Each course is developed to meet the needs of professional students seeking advanced knowledge in addressing unique and complex issues of organizations at the local, state, and federal levels. Developed with a holistic curriculum, the DPA program will highlight the essential components of social service, health management, policy, governance, criminal justice, and business.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctor of Public Administration:

• California Baptist University
• Old Dominion University
• University of Illinois-Springfield

Doctorate in Educational Leadership

The Doctorate of Educational Leadership is primarily designed for working professionals, allowing students to complete their doctorate studies in two years in a full-time learning format. Like the Doctorate in Business Administration, the online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership is one of the most popular options for students seeking shorter doctorate programs. 

The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership program helps prepare innovative leaders who have the knowledge and skill set to oversee complex organizations through uncertain times. While many students assume that the program is only applicable to education, many schools have offered an interdisciplinary doctorate program in Educational Leadership.

Some of the online Doctorate in Educational Leadership offer specializations in Sport Leadership, Special Education Leadership, Nursing Education, Human Resource Development, Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management, Global Education, and Health Communication & Leadership.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership:

• Drexel University
• Louisiana State University
• Spalding University

Doctorate in Public Policy

The Doctorate in Public Policy program is an excellent option for professional students seeking advanced roles in Education and non-profit, public, and government sectors. It is a practitioner-based terminal doctorate program that highlights a set of coursework, developing students’ problem-solving, communication, management, and leadership skills.

With an average completion time of 36 months, the online Doctorate in Public Policy program is considered one of the shortest doctorate programs available. It is an academic doctorate program that builds upon students’ expertise and skills in the development of applied research skills essential for professional students working in public administration.

Although program requirements vary per school, some of the most common include foundational, core and elective courses, writing assessments, residency programs, and dissertation requirements. Some schools also offer a variety of specializations for a Doctorate in Public Policy, including social policy, national security policy, foreign policy, education policy, and economic policy.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Public Policy:

• Liberty University
• Valdosta State University

Doctorate in Social Work

Professional students enrolled in the online Doctorate in Social Work program can receive their degrees in less than three years. It is designed for experienced clinical social workers with diverse professional experience, learning styles, and academic goals.

Through the doctorate program, students will develop characteristics of both scholars and practitioners. They also adopt the disciplinary habits of scholars through different methodological tools and rigorous study.

Regardless of professional background, the Doctorate in Social Work program will prepare students to pursue a variety of social work career pathways. It is a terminal degree with a clinically-driven curriculum, providing students with advanced practice methods and clinical overview essential to succeed.

Given that it is one of the shortest doctorate programs, professional students pursuing the DSW degree will only require a set of coursework and capstone projects. Depending on the nature of their program, some students will complete a leadership practicum and a teaching practicum.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Social Work:

• Simmons University
• University of Louisville
• University of Southern California

Doctor of Theology or Ministry

Design for professional students in religious studies, the Doctor of Theology or Ministry program will provide students with a practice-focused academic degree that focuses on solving real-world ministry or theological problems with advanced research and practice. Many online schools offer a Doctor of Theology or Ministry program that helps equip students with essential skills in the practice of Christianity. 

Many students can already complete their Doctor of Theology or Ministry degree within 24 months, making it one of the shortest doctorate programs in Religious Education.

Students will immerse themselves in an in-depth journey through the New and Old Testaments through the program. It is an academic degree that will help develop students’ skills in bibliographies, theological methodologies, and doctorate-level writing and research.

Students may also choose a concentration in Theology, including Pastoral Theology, Theological Apologetics, Systematic Theology, Biblical Theology, and Church History.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctor of Theology or Ministry:

• Regent University
• Trinity College of the Bible & Theological Seminary

Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Change

Professional students interested in enrolling in one of the shortest doctorate programs available shouldn’t miss the Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Change program. It is an academic program that will prepare students to explore a diverse range of solution-building initiatives for complex social challenges.

As a terminal doctorate, the Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Change program features an extensive research-based study plan. It is a holistic, interdisciplinary program covering organizational behavior, business analytics, research design, statistics, and business methodologies and theories.

Due to the nature of the program, many schools require at least three years of professional experience for students to enroll. After completing the doctorate program, graduates will become effective leaders in various professional settings, including healthcare organizations, academia, non-profits, businesses, and ministries.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Change:

• Adler University
• Vanderbilt University

Doctorate in Healthcare Management or Administration

The Doctorate in Healthcare Management/Administration is one of the shortest doctorate programs designed for mid-to senior-level professionals to help them perform applied research in the healthcare setting. Students will become knowledgeable in performing and capitalizing on practice-based research, leading a diverse range of institutions, and shaping public health policies through the doctorate program.

The doctorate program can be completed in three years, depending on students’ pace and commitment. While schools have different curricula for their doctorate programs, the majority of Doctorate in Healthcare Management degrees will require the completion of the core, elective, and foundational courses, dissertations, and comprehensive examinations.

After graduation, professional students will focus more on achieving leadership in healthcare management, ethics of healthcare, healthcare information systems, and healthcare practices and theories. Working as healthcare consultants, healthcare data analysts, pharmaceutical product managers, or hospital CEOs are some of the career pathways for graduates with Doctorate in Healthcare Management credentials.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Healthcare Management or Administration:

• California Intercontinental University
• Loyola University Chicago
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Doctorate in Physical Therapy

A list of the shortest doctorate programs wouldn’t be complete without the Doctorate in Physical Therapy program. With one to three years of completion time, the doctorate program is designed for licensed physical therapists and physiotherapists, providing industry-standard experience, skills, and knowledge.

It is an ideal program for professional students seeking to maintain their relevance while pursuing the practice of their profession in the field of physiotherapy or physical therapy.

Through the program, professional students will take control of various therapeutic procedures, including diagnosis and implementation of physical therapy treatments tailored to every patient’s unique requirements. Its curriculum features a set of coursework in diagnostic imaging, foundations of autonomous practice, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and global healthcare issues.

Apart from coursework completion, students must accomplish practicum requirements in their chosen field of specialty areas.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy:

• AT Still University of Health Sciences
• Northeastern University

Doctorate in Education

Another option for educators and aspiring school administrators pursuing the shortest doctorate programs available is the Doctorate in Education program. The online, accelerated doctorate program can be completed within 36 months, depending on the student’s pace and preferences.

The doctorate program will develop an in-depth understanding of the educational process and build a skill set applicable to educational leadership settings. It is a doctorate program designed for experienced and skilled educators and other aspiring professionals in learning and development career positions.

Integrated with practitioner-oriented learning, professional students will become transformative leaders with a diverse range of expertise in organizational change, learning & teaching, and curriculum development.

Completing the Doctorate in Education program will equip graduates with the essential skills and knowledge to manage and lead positive transformations in community programs, non-government and government sectors, corporations, and academic systems.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Education:

• Baylor University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Marymount University

Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision

The Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision is another popular option for students seeking the shortest doctorate programs in counseling or psychology. Although the doctorate program has an average completion time of three to four years, many universities offer accelerated, web-based programs that can be completed within 24 months.

Professional students with CACREP-accredited master’s degrees can also transfer academic credits, making it the shortest way possible to complete their doctorate studies.

The majority of the curriculum is designed and aligned with the standards administered by the Council of Accreditation for Counseling & Related Educational Programs. It is a doctorate program that prepares graduates and other professionals to become practitioners, researchers, supervisors, and counselor educators in various clinical and educational settings.

The academic program will also provide graduates with the necessary credentials and knowledge to assume leadership roles in the counseling profession.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision:

• Adam State University Colorado
• Antioch University (Flexible, Low Residency)
• University of the Cumberlands

Doctorate in Criminal Justice

The Doctorate in Criminal Justice is one of the rarest doctorate programs available in the country, with only a few schools offering this type of program. It is a unique doctorate program that will explore and address the demand for highly skilled criminal justice practitioners in the US.

The doctorate program is also designed for professional students seeking teaching opportunities and other high-level positions within various educational and criminal justice systems. Many distance learners can complete their Doctorate in Criminal Justice credentials within two years of full-time learning.

Through the doctorate program, Criminal Justice majors will strengthen their skills in policy implementation, in-depth analysis, and evaluation for criminal justice practitioners. They will have an in-depth understanding of real-world problems concerning the criminal justice field, including reducing recidivism of cases, wrongful convictions, police use-of-force, and federal consent decrees.

Apart from online coursework completion, professional students will accomplish residency programs, dissertations, and comprehensive examinations.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Criminal Justice:

• California University of Pennsylvania
• Saint Leo University

Doctorate in Information Technology

Given that Information Technology is a rapidly evolving field, the Doctorate in Information Technology is a multidisciplinary academic program designed for innovative professionals and leaders seeking to advance their abilities, skills, and knowledge in computing systems and technology.

Apart from technical proficiencies, students will also develop relevant information technology abilities essential to influencing and leading a diverse range of organizations. The academic program will offer a comprehensive understanding of foundational theories and practices and how they can be applied to IT.

While every school has its unique program requirements, students can expect to complete foundational, elective, and core courses, specialization, comprehensive examination, dissertation, and residency programs. After completing the doctorate program, graduates can pursue senior-level roles in academic, government, and industrial sectors.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Information Technology:

• City University of Seattle

Doctorate in Grief Counseling

Another rare doctorate program with a shorter program length is the Doctorate in Grief Counseling . Unlike traditional doctorates in counseling, the Grief Counseling post-masters program emphasizes clinical practice instead of counselor supervision and education.

It is a doctorate program that helps professional students explore and gain a holistic understanding of community trauma and disaster, crisis management, critical incidents, forgiveness, inner healing, and grief management. The academic program will also prepare psychotherapists and professional counselors for leadership and advanced clinical practice.

Through a series of coursework, students will become knowledgeable in reviewing models, theories, and research on bereavement, grief counseling techniques, and factors that impact grief. Some of the most common topics include community & crisis counseling, grief & bereavement, counseling ministry for the bereaved, psychotherapy integration, and ethics in grief counseling. 

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Grief Counseling:

• American International Theism University
• Mississippi College

Doctorate in Public Health

Professional students completing the Doctorate in Public Health can graduate within 36 months, depending on their professional commitments and pace. It is a doctorate program designed for mid to senior-level practitioners with more than five years of professional experience in the related field.

The doctorate curriculum highlights advanced public health studies and training for preparing graduates for leadership positions in practice-based settings, including community-based organizations, international agencies, non-profit organizations, and health departments.

Completing the Doctorate in Public Health program will help graduates foster advanced expertise in evaluating, implementing, and developing evidence-based, applied public health practices.

Best Schools Offering an Online Doctorate in Public Health:

• Indiana University
• University of South Florida (Low Residency)

Frequently Asked Questions

Regardless of the type of doctorate programs you enroll in, completing doctorate credentials requires significant commitment. While fast-tracked or the shortest doctoral programs online help students earn their doctorate in less time, online doctoral degree programs have a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that can be completed faster, requiring hard work, grit, and dedication.

Professional students can choose any of the two major types of doctorate degrees, namely the following: 

A doctorate program that emphasizes theories, data analysis, and research to have an in-depth expansion of a particular area of discipline.

• Professional/Applied Doctorate

It is a doctorate program that emphasizes developing effective professional practices, finding solutions, and applying research methodologies to a diverse range of practical problems within the field of discipline.

Although Ph.D. programs have 8.2 years to complete on average, some online schools offer fast-tracked programs as alternatives. Instead of application, Ph.D. programs focus more on theories. Due to the nature of applied doctorate programs, they’ve become an in-demand type of post-master’s degree since many working professionals prefer applied learning.

While students prefer shorter program lengths and affordability, others have more specific preferences. Each preference and school classification is considered by students when comparing and choosing academic institutions.

Since many professional students have unique criteria and goals for pursuing doctorate studies, it can be challenging to standardize the shortest doctorate programs. Students who prefer individualized and comprehensive mentoring from academic or thesis advisors can enroll in a private institution with a smaller student-to-faculty ratio. However, extra perks often involve more expensive programs.

The completion time for completing doctorate studies, such as the DBA or Doctor of Nursing Practice programs, will depend on students’ commitment and their chosen discipline area. Some universities have an average completion time of more than six years, while others have 5.5 years as the median completion time. With reputable online doctorate programs, students have the option to complete their doctoral studies in as few as three years.

Both traditional and online doctorate programs have become widely accepted in financial aid coverage. Given that doctorate students will complete their FAFSA requirements, they will receive financial assistance to help them complete their doctorate education. 

Here are some of the types of financial aid options available for doctorate students:

• Fellowships/Assistantships
• Private Loans
• Scholarships
• Student Loans
• Work-Study Programs

Most students can obtain their doctorate degrees within two years when pursuing online, fast-tracked learning programs. However, some students extend their completion time to more than five years due to their personal and professional obligations. 

Although online programs are mostly self-paced, schools have time limits to prevent their students from extending their completion time to almost a decade. The extension will depend on the academic institution and specific areas of study.

However, most universities offer a 7- to 8-year deadline from students’ admission date to their final thesis. At some point, the thesis requirements of students are slowed down due to their circumstances and work schedules.

Given the scenarios, it is hard to standardize exactly how long it will take to complete doctorate studies. Students’ pace and timetable significantly impact obtaining their doctorate degrees on time.

As distance learning has become a trend, many professional students have enrolled in fast-tracked online programs at the doctorate level without leaving their current professions.

For example, the field of education requires candidates to have a doctoral degree when taking on leadership roles in the academe, including associate deans, academic supervisors, and deans. Having doctorate credentials will help candidates negotiate higher salaries, career advancements, or licensing requirements in the business industry.

Here are the most popular academic fields for students pursuing the shortest doctorate online programs:

• Leadership/Management
• Political Science

In Conclusion

Since many colleges and universities offer a variety of online programs, it’s easier and more possible for students to pursue the shortest doctorate programs available. Gone are the days when online, fast-tracked doctorate degrees are not as good as traditional, on-campus degrees.

Many professionals and adult graduate students nowadays prefer the shortest online doctoral degree programs available due to their flexibility, convenience, and program duration, making them ideal for career advancements and career shifters. 

On the contrary, pursuing the shortest doctorate program, such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice, can involve additional pressure. Since it is a fast-tracked program, students accomplish more deliverables in less time than traditional doctorate programs. 

While pressure is subjective and depends on all graduate students, it is safe to say that more and more professionals have realized the benefits of pursuing the shortest possible option of completing doctorate studies. All it takes is to find the shortest doctorate program tailored to students’ personal and professional lives, learning preferences, and career objectives.

Related Article: Choosing a Short Doctorate Program: Factors to Consider

Malcolm Peralty Chief Editor

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Easy Accredited Online Ph.D Programs

What is the benefit of easy phd programs.

Enroll in one of our top easy accredited online Ph.D. programs . Don’t let the “doctor” in our title intimidate you!

Less than 2% of the U.S. population has earned a doctoral degree. By taking your education as far as possible, you’ll distinguish yourself from millions of Americans. And with a flexible, online, easy PhD, you don’t need to put your life on pause to gain the credential of a doctorate degree.

Featured Programs

Online doctoral programs are ideal for students deeply invested in their academic studies. Beyond satisfying your own intellectual itch, your doctoral research can forever change the way people think about your field. 

From a money standpoint, advancing your education is a wise investment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that weekly earnings rise the higher your education level. It found that, on average, workers with doctoral degrees make 30% more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.

See Also: Easy Online Master’s Degree Programs

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

Before we look at the top easy accredited online Ph.D. programs, it’s important to know the difference between a Doctor of Philosophy and a professional doctorate.

In short, these programs differ in their research expectations. Ph.D. programs require a dissertation. They are designed for those who want to teach at a four-year university. A dissertation is a large research project that focuses on a big idea in your field. 

Professional doctorates are ideal for those who want to advance their careers. Doctorates are available in business, education, and nursing. This is just a few examples, though.

In a professional doctorate, you might focus more on applied research. Usually, you’ll do a capstone project to offer a solution to a problem within your organization, for example.

See Also: Top 15 Accredited Online PhD Programs

Can I Really Earn a Doctoral Degree Online?

Yes, you can get a doctorate degree online! That’s why we have this ranking of the easiest PhD programs.

Fully online doctoral degree programs exist. However, for most programs, expect a few in-person requirements.

If you are considering a doctorate degree, you may consider online doctorate degrees. Online doctoral degree programs are a flexible and convenient way to further your education.

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

What Are the Best Online Doctoral Degrees?

You want to know about online doctoral degree programs. You’re in the right place to learn about the easiest PhD to get!

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each program is scored individually. It’s then compared to all other universities offering that degree. This is done to determine the final score you see by each ranking.

Accredited Online College considers many factors. This includes the affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more about our online programs, visit our methodology page. 

Narrow down your school search with these easiest online PhD programs!

1. capella university.

Some universities focus more on undergraduate studies.But more than 60% of Capella University students are earning graduate-level degrees. This fully online institution has 18 online doctoral degrees . These degrees include social work, human services, business, and education. 

Capella has both Ph.D. and professional doctorate programs . For example, you can choose between a Ph.D. in business management or a Doctor of Business Administration. In both doctoral programs, you are assigned a faculty mentor. This mentor will guide you through your studies and help with your dissertation or capstone project.

Capella’s programs are already affordable. However, if you get a doctorate degree in behavior analysis, business or psychology, you might be able to eligible for a $20,000 scholarship. The Capella Progress Reward is a scholarship granted to new students in these programs. You must show good academic standing and pass your first course on the first try to qualify.

This is a great chance to pursue one the easy doctorate degrees while saving money.

Online DBA program focuses:

• DBA in General Management
• DBA in Organizational Leadership and Development
• DBA in Strategy and Innovation

Examples of the PhD programs:

• PhD Psychology
• PhD Counselor Education and Supervision
• PhD Business Management

Learn more about the easiest doctorate at Capella University here .

2. Walden University

Walden University’s mission is to provide working professionals with a flexible pathway to a Ph.D. Today, Walden offers 25 online doctoral degrees. There are Ph.D. and professional doctorate programs. You can choose from areas like psychology, public health, and social work. 

At Walden, you’ll connect with a peer mentor. This mentor is a fellow doctoral student. They will be further along in their studies than you. This support is in addition to your dedicated faculty mentor.

Walden’s student support system is also designed with its online learners’ families in mind. The university chooses kid-friendly locations , like Orlando, for its doctoral residencies. They recognize that many students need to bring their families with them for any in-person requirements. As an easiest doctorate degree, you might have time to enjoy with your family, too.

If you are curious about the dissertation process, check out more here .

Examples of doctorate program:

• PhD Developmental Psychology
• PhD Education
• PhD Forensic Psychology
• PhD Nursing
• Doctor of Nursing Practice

Learn more about doctoral programs at Walden University here .

3. University of Florida

U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Florida at No. 34 on its Best National Universities. It is also at No. 7 on its Top Public Schools.

UF is one of the most well-respected universities in the country. Its distance learning classes create more access to the Gators’ leading academic programs.

UF offers six online doctoral degrees . They are in education, nursing, and pharmacy. It has two additional online doctoral options within its Department of Classics. These focus on classical civilizations and Latin and Roman studies. 

At UF, educators can earn a Doctor of Education in educational leadership. You can also choose higher education or educational technology. An additional specialization allows you to examine the role of teachers and schools in society. Doing so allows you to use your research to address a specific problem within your school. If you are considering a doctorate degree online UF is a solid choice.

Doctorate Degree Programs include:

• Classic Civilization
• Computer Science Education
• Nursing Practice
• Teachers, School and Society

Learn more about doctoral programs at University of Florida here .

4. Liberty University

Liberty University is not new to distance learning. In the 1980s, this faith-based university started expanding the reach of its Lynchburg campus. It did so through mailed correspondence courses. Today, it offers more than 400 online degree programs . Well done, internet!

Liberty has more than 20 online doctoral programs. Many of these programs have several options.

For example, Liberty’s Doctor of Business Administration includes 14 specializations. They range from international business to real estate development.

Some of Liberty’s online doctorates can be earned entirely online. Any in-person requirements are done through on-campus visits. These visits are offered several times throughout the year. This is to accommodate students’ schedules. Coursework is divided into 8-week units. Liberty’s programs have eight start dates throughout the year.

Liberty’s mission is to train “Champions for Christ.” As such, this university has several faith-based programs. There is a Doctor of Ministry. There is also a Doctor of Worship Studies. You can get a Ph.D. in theology and apologetics. A doctorate degree online from LU is definitely one to consider.

Doctorate Degree Programs that can be completed online include:

• DMin (Doctor of Ministry)
• EdD (Doctor of Education
• PhD Criminal Justice

Learn more about doctoral programs at Liberty University here .

5. University of North Dakota

Based in Grand Forks, the University of North Dakota is the state’s largest institution of higher education. It is also the only school in North Dakota offering graduate-level degrees in law and medicine.

But you don’t need to live in North Dakota to benefit from this university’s reputable degree programs . Ten of UND’s doctoral programs are available online.

Currently, UND ranks at No. 128 on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. This university has really set itself apart in engineering, aviation, and medicine. Interested engineering students have several options in online doctoral programs at UND. Here, you can choose to pursue a doctorate degree such as:

• environmental
• petroleum engineering

UND also offers online doctoral programs in aerospace sciences, education, and nursing. 

All of UND’s doctoral degrees require 90 credit hours. However, the time it takes to complete each program differs. This ranges from three to seven years. A doctorate degree online from UND offers a range of possibilities!

Learn more about online doctorate programs at University of North Dakota here .

6. Northcentral University

As a doctoral student, you’ll want guidance from someone who has done the same academic journey. All of Northcentral University’s faculty have earned a doctoral degree. Furthermore, you’ll be in the majority. As an online graduate student at NCU, you’ll join 95% of students that are pursuing an advanced degree.

Northcentral has more than 20 online doctoral degrees in disciplines like:

• education programs
• criminal justice

NCU employs a one-to-one learning model.

Here, you’ll get individualized support. In each course, you’ll be paired with a professor in a “class size of one.” Your professor gives personalized feedback as you work through each topic. They also work with you on your dissertation.

NCU’s cost-effective doctoral program tuition rates can be further reduced with its “2020 Vision” scholarship. The university awards six full-tuition scholarships to students with the best essays. These essays describe how their degrees will help them achieve a lifelong goal.

If you are considering a doctorate degree, you may decide to apply for that scholarship. Financial aid is a great way to reduce the cost of doctoral programs.

Learn more about the online doctorate programs at Northcentral University here.

7. East Carolina University

When looking at your doctorate degree, you can become an ECU Pirate. ECU is located in Greenville, North Carolina. It’s just a short drive from the ocean. It has a national reputation as the No. 109 school on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. ECU is also one of North Carolina’s top producers of nurses and educators. 

At ECU, you can choose between four online doctoral programs. The online Doctor of Education offers two specializations. They are in higher education and Pre-K through 12th grade.

Candidates in the Doctor of Public Health program can focus on either environmental and occupational health or health policy, administration, and leadership.

Lastly, nurses can advance their education with either a professional doctorate, the Doctor of Nursing Practice, or the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing. 

The online distance learning format makes it easy to complete doctorate degrees anywhere.

Learn more about online doctorate programs at East Carolina University here .

8. University of Missouri

If your goal is to earn a Ph.D. without taking on student loans, the University of Missouri might be the school for you. Nearly half (48%) of Mizzou’s students graduate debt-free.

Not only is this university affordable for a doctorate degree, but it ranks at No. 64 on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. 

More than 16,000 students enroll in Mizzou’s online courses . Mizzou Online offers ten online doctoral programs. Most of these doctorate degrees are from the Sinclair of Nursing. Nurses can earn either a Ph.D. or a professional doctorate in nursing. The Doctor of Nursing Program has five specializations. This includes pediatric nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology, and family nurse practitioner. 

Educators have two online doctorate choices in education programs at Mizzou. There is either a Ph.D. in art education or a Doctor of Education in educational leadership. Mizzou also has a Ph.D. in agricultural education and leadership and a Ph.D. in architectural studies. That’s a lot of doctorate degrees from which to choose!

Learn more about online doctorate programs at University of Missouri here .

9. Indiana State University

Indiana State University is based in Terre Haute, Indiana. This school is all about applied learning. All of its programs require experiential learning. This is part of ISU’s vision to be a leader in hands-on education. 

So, while you can earn six of Indiana State’s doctoral degrees online , you can also expect in-person requirements in each program. These on-campus meetings guarantee that you know how to put the knowledge you gain in the classroom to work. 

At ISU, health professionals can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a Doctor of Health Sciences. Educators can pursue a Ph.D. in higher education leadership or school administration.

You can also pursue a Ph.D. in technology management or a Doctor of Athletic Training. Indiana State’s DAT is the only program of its kind to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. 

Learn more about online doctorate programs at Indiana State University here .

10. University of Arkansas

Become a University of Arkansas Razorback!

Arkansas holds the No. 72 spot on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. The University of Arkansas also has the highest classification awarded by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. For this award, Carnegie takes into account the quality of a university’s doctoral programs. It also considers the number of research grants it receives and the productivity of its scholars. 

The U of A has four online doctoral programs. Its Doctor of Education offers three tracks. These are in adult and lifelong learning, educational leadership, and human resources and workforce development education. Lastly, the U of A has a Doctor of Nursing Practice among its doctorate degrees. 

All doctorate degree programs are in the same academic departments that serve on-campus students. This means you’ll have the same access to faculty as on-campus students. 

Check out the doctor of nursing practice information here .

Learn more about accredited online PhD programs at University of Arkansas here .

11. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is based in Phoenix, Arizona. GCU is a Christian institution with more than 60,000 online learners. A growing percentage of these students are pursuing graduate-level degrees. Currently, about half (47%) are graduate students. 

GCU offers five online Ph.D. programs , all in psychology. You can focus on:

• Performance psychology
• Cognitive psychology
• Industrial/organizational psychology

You can also specialize in counselor education or technology, learning, and psychology. All of these doctorate degree programs emphasize research. You begin working on your dissertations in your first course.

A series of courses will keep you on track to complete your dissertation. This helps you with steps in the process like developing a proposal and gathering data for your research. 

Learn more about the doctoral degree program at Grand Canyon University here .

12. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. NSU’s nickname is the Sharks. It also has a Ph.D. program in oceanography and marine biology. So, at NSU, you can both become a Shark and study sharks!

On top of this unique doctoral program, NSU has more than 16 online doctoral programs . These online doctoral programs include many academic disciplines. Examples are:

• Criminal justice
• Occupational therapy
• Cybersecurity management
• Speech-language pathology

By enrolling at NSU, you’ll have access to the university’s Center for Collaborative Research. Besides providing state-of-the-art equipment, this facility supports interdisciplinary discoveries. NSU’s faculty and students are currently working on more than 200 projects. They are researching solutions to issues like coral reef deterioration. Other research is on chronic fatigue syndrome and cardiovascular disease.  

Other Online Doctorate Degrees include:

• computer science
• health sciences
• information systems

Learn more about online doctoral degree program at Nova Southeastern University here .

13. California Intercontinental University

California Intercontinental University is an online university. It is located in Irvine. The school is committed to graduating business leaders. At the doctoral level, CIU has just one doctoral program. It’s a doctorate of business administration. If you are considering an online doctorate program in business, CIU might have what you need.

You might consider this program if you want to improve your organization through scholarly research. Likewise, you can become a thought leader in global economics, e-commerce, or consumer behavior. CIU’s graduates have gone on to work at Fortune 500 companies. Many others have started their own businesses.

CIU’s DBA candidates choose between four specializations:

• Global business and leadership
• Entrepreneurship and business management
• Healthcare management and leadership
• Information systems and enterprise resource management.

The DBA program requires 60 credits. You’ll write a dissertation as your final project. You’ll also take a comprehensive exam. This is done to ensure a firm grasp of the material covered in your courses.

Learn more about the doctoral degree program at California Intercontinental University here .

14. Colorado State University

Colorado State University is the No. 79 university on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. Colorado State also boasts the title of the nation’s most sustainable campus. Nearly all (90%) of CSU’s departments are conducting sustainability-related research.  

CSU Online offers three doctoral degrees. It has both a Doctor of Engineering and a Ph.D. program in systems engineering. These highly competitive programs attract senior managers or executives. You’ll examine complex systems and discover innovative solutions to improve how they work.

Candidates come from diverse engineering experience. Students might have experience in aerospace, clean energy, or the automotive industry. 

CSU also has an online doctorate program in higher education. This program is for students who aim to teach at a college or university. 

Learn more about a doctorate degree from Colorado State University here .

15. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus has served the U.S. armed forces for more than 70 years. UMGC has locations across the state of Maryland. They are also at more than 140 military bases across the globe. 

UMGC offers two online doctoral degrees . Its Doctor of Business Administration is a 48-credit-hour program. The program is geared toward executive-level professionals. This degree finishes with a dissertation. There are required courses in data analytics and evidence-based research as well.

UMGC also has a Doctor of Management in community college policy and administration. This online doctorate is designed for those who want to successfully lead a community college. You will conduct research that will improve institutional operations across the country in this program. 

Both of UMGC’s doctoral degree programs utilize a cohort model. You’ll start and finish the online doctorate program with the same group of students.

Learn more about online doctorate degrees at University of Maryland University College here.

16. Trident University

Trident University International is based in Cypress, California. It is a 100% online institution.

The university is dedicated to adult learners. Most of Trident’s students are over the age of 30. A third of its doctoral students are over 50 years old.

Trident also has a long history of enrolling U.S. service members. Nearly half of its students are active-duty or veterans. 

At Trident, you can work on either a Ph.D. or a professional doctorate . These degree programs are in three areas:

• Business administration
• Educational leadership
• Health services

All of these programs can be earned entirely online. There are no in-person visits. 

As a Trident student, you’ll complete about nine to 12 self-paced courses to graduate. Trident’s Career Services Center is available to help you. They will assist you with applying for jobs that fit your new credentials.  

Learn more about a doctorate degree at Trident University International here .

17. University of Tennessee is in Knoxville

Become a Tennessee Volunteer by enrolling at the state’s flagship university.

The University of Tennessee is in Knoxville. UT ranks at No. 44 on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. Through Vols Online, you can get a doctoral degree without stepping foot in the Volunteer State. 

The doctoral programs offered through Vols Online center include many disciplines. For example, you can get a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a Ph.D. in nursing online. Or you might choose to take on a Doctor of Social Work.

UT’s DSW program is designed for practicing clinical social workers. The program has flexible asynchronous online coursework. There are also real-time, interactive videos. This helps professionals like you to advance your education while continuing to help your clients. 

Lastly, UT has an online Ph.D. program in industrial and systems engineering. This degree program has an optional engineering management concentration.

Learn more about a doctorate degree at University of Tennessee – Knoxville here .

18. Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago started in 1864. It began as a teacher’s college. The university is grounded in the Lutheran faith.

This private school has now expanded to disciplines beyond education. Although its academic opportunities have grown, CUC has remained small in size. It enrolls under 5,000 graduate students. There is an 11:1 graduate student-to-faculty ratio. 

CUC has three options for online doctoral candidates. You can earn a Doctor of Business Administration in as little as three years. This 60-credit-hour program has four specializations:

• Health care
• Human resources

At CUC, educators can earn either a Doctor of Education or a Ph.D. Several specializations are available. This includes curriculum and instruction, literacy, and special education.

Dissertations can make the length of doctoral programs somewhat hard to predict. CUC guarantees that your tuition will not increase during your course of study, though. You simply have to maintain continuous enrollment in your degree program. 

Learn more about this online doctorate degree program at Concordia University Chicago here .

19. Lamar University

Lamar University is based in Beaumont, Texas. It’s a public university. It’s also part of the Texas State University System.

Lamar’s “Cardinal” community is quickly growing. Today, it serves more than 15,000 students. Roughly a third of these students are pursuing graduate-level degrees. 

Through LU Online, you can be part of one doctoral program – a Doctor of Education in educational leadership.

This 60-credit-hour program is meant for candidates who want to reach the highest administrative levels in their schools. Lamar’s Ed.D. program has a global focus. Required courses cover educational ethics, values, and leadership strategies from around the world.  

All faculty members in LU’s department of educational leadership have earned an Ed.D. or Ph.D. This ensures that you learn from experts with terminal degrees in the field throughout your degree program.  

Learn more about online learning at Lamar University here .

20. Keiser University

Keiser University is based in Fort Lauderdale. It also has locations across Florida

The university has more than ten online doctoral degrees. Keiser is focused on adult learners who continue to work as they study in their degree programs. More than 75% of its students work full- or part-time while enrolled in their degree programs. 

At Keiser, you’ll complete coursework that is designed by more than leaders in academia. Keiser maintains advisory boards with professional experts. Statewide community leaders are involved, too. This ensures that the school’s standards are informed by the industry’s specific needs and competencies.

Keiser’s doctoral degrees span academic disciplines. You can pursue a degree program in business or education. Psychology and nursing are other options. This university even offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Spanish. This kind of program gives you the chance to gain advanced business knowledge in your first or preferred language.

Additionally, unique among Keiser’s programs is a Doctor of Chiropractic. Though coursework is administered online, this degree program does require in-person clinical training. 

Learn more about the doctorate degree at Keiser University here .

21. Pittsburg State University

Based in Pittsburg, Kansas, Pittsburg State University’s mascot is Gus the Gorilla. Beyond its standout nickname, Pitt State boasts a unique flat-rate tuition. Here, you won’t pay more for taking more credit hours. Instead, full-time graduate students who are enrolled in at least nine credit hours pay a single tuition rate. 

Pitt State started as a teacher’s college. It has a long tradition in educational studies.

Doctoral students have one doctorate degree online option at this university. That degree program is an Educational Specialist degree in advanced studies in leadership. 

While there aren’t multiple degree programs, you still get variety. Pitt State’s EdS candidates can either pursue specializations in elementary or secondary school administration. Special education is also an option.

This degree’s 36-credit-hour curriculum builds on your master’s degree coursework. It also might serve as a stepping stone to a Doctor of Education.

Learn more about the doctorate degree at Pittsburg State University here .

22. Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University is near Toledo. It holds the No. 119 spot on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools.

BGSU offers one online doctoral degree program. That program is in technology management. If this is your field of choice, you’ll be impressed to learn that among BGSU’s alumni is Shantanu Narayen, the president and CEO of Adobe Inc. 

BGSU’s Ph.D. program in technology management is a five-for-one deal. It is administered in collaboration with Indiana State University, the University of Central Missouri, East Carolina University, and North Carolina A&T State University. 

This Ph.D. program attracts highly motivated professionals with significant work experience. As a candidate, you can choose to specialize in five areas:

• construction management
• digital communications
• human resource development
• manufacturing systems
• quality systems

In addition to the required research and core technology courses, you’ll complete nine hours of professional studies. Online students might need to include an internship, too.

Learn more about the doctorate degree at Bowling Green State University here .

23. Johnson University

Johnson University is a Christian school. It has campuses in Knoxville, Tennessee and Kissimmee, Florida.

Johnson has one online Ph.D. program in leadership studies. This program is in the university’s Center for Global Studies. This department is led by board members from several Christian universities.

Johnson’s Ph.D. in leadership studies requires 60 credit hours. The curriculum is divided into course requirements in:

Additionally, you will study a chosen specialization. There are three concentrations available in educational leadership. You can choose among organizational leadership, the philosophy and theology of leadership, and missional leadership.  

Coursework is completed entirely online. Your work is done in an asynchronous format. Classes last seven weeks. You get a one-week break before focusing on a new topic. Research summits provide you with opportunities to network with peers and professors in person.

This Ph.D. takes full-time students four years to earn or seven years for part-time students.

Learn more about the doctoral program at Johnson University here.

24. Hampton University

Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a historically black university. It is located near Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay.

Enrolling just over 4,000 students, Hampton has ten colleges. Most of its students pursue degrees in liberal arts, education, science, and business. 

Hampton U Online expands the reach of this university. There are several fully online degree programs. Doctoral students can earn a Ph.D. in business administration. This requires 61 credit hours in online coursework. It also includes summer on-campus residencies.

For educators, Hampton offers a Ph.D. in educational management. There are counselor education and supervision options, too. You can also choose to earn an educational specialist in counseling. 

Lastly, Hampton has a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program. This degree requires 33 credit hours and 500 clinical hours. Classes are delivered online. However, you can expect three in-person residencies. 

Learn more about this doctorate degree at Hampton University here .

25. Maryville University of St. Louis

Maryville University is near St. Louis, MO. It enrolls just over 10,000 students. More than half of students study online.

This university is focused on the jobs of tomorrow. It partners with companies like Boeing and Edward Jones. Doing so allows Maryville to predict jobs that currently don’t exist so it can design the educational programs for future leaders.

Currently, online students can earn two doctoral degrees through Maryville’s online portal.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice is a robust program with six specializations. These focus areas include pediatrics, gerontology, and psychiatric mental health. As a DNP candidate, you’ll complete coursework online. Your clinical training is done at an approved site near your home. Maryville’s DNP can be earned in as little as 20 months. 

Maryville also has a Doctor of Education in higher education. This cohort program for this doctorate degree takes as few as 32 months and can be earned entirely online. 

Learn more this doctorate degree at Maryville University of St. Louis here .

26. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina is the highest-ranked university on this list. U.S News & World Report ranks it at No. 5 on its list of the Top Public Schools. It also ranks No. 29 in National Universities.

This school has an impressive 13:1 student to faculty ratio. This proves it continues to provide students with personalized attention.

UNC has one online doctoral degree option. That program is a transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy, or tDPT.  This program is in the School of Medicine’s Department of Allied Health Sciences. It is geared toward licensed physical therapists who want to teach in a clinical or academic setting.

This is a two-year, part-time degree. It’s designed to allow therapists to continue their practices. As a tDPT candidate, you’ll take 12 courses and complete a case study capstone project. 

Learn more about a doctorate degree from University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill here .

27. Faulkner University

Faulkner University is in Montgomery, AL. It is a Christian, liberal arts university. It has just over 3,000 students.

Faulkner’s online doctoral degrees reflect the university’s two main priorities. Here, you can earn a Ph.D. in biblical studies or humanities.

The Ph.D. in biblical studies is a four- to five-year program. It is delivered entirely online. As a candidate, you’ll not only delve into the books of the Bible, but you’ll also learn to read them in another language. Students must prove proficiency in either Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek.

Faulkner’s Ph.D. in the humanities focuses on an advanced understanding of the philosophy and history of learning. This fully-online program takes three to five years to finish. It is also highly customizable. You can choose to focus your dissertation on an author, an idea, or even a historical era.  

Learn more about online learning at Faulkner University here .

28. Regis University

Regis University is located in Denver, CO. It’s a Jesuit Catholic university. This Catholic order’s motto is “men and women in service of others.” As a result, you’ll find a strong tradition of service-learning at Regis. 

Fittingly, Regis’ sole fully online doctoral degree program is in nursing. Regis’ Doctor of Nursing Practice offers two tracks. There is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or an advanced leadership in health care specialization. 

Regis’ DNP takes either two or three years to earn. Classes for a doctorate degree are organized into 8-week units. The program ends with a capstone project. This project helps to better your nursing practice.

Candidates typically choose to focus this final project on a problem within their organizations. You might use your research to determine a solution and offer steps to initiate it.

Students pursuing doctorate degrees should check out Regis University here .

29. University of the Southwest

The University of the Southwest is based in Hobbs, New Mexico. It is a non-denominational Christian university. Its mission is to “mold the next generation of leaders through Christ-centered values.” All of USW’s graduate programs are delivered online. 

Here, you can get a Doctor of Business Administration. You get a free laptop. All course material is covered by your tuition costs as well.

USW’s DBA is a three-year, part-time program. There are no in-person residencies. You can focus on strategy and innovation. Likewise, you can study leadership and organizational development.

Alternatively, you can choose a self-design track. If you do, you’ll work with your dissertation committee to tailor your studies to your specific career goals. 

Learn more about a doctorate degree at University of the Southwest here.

30. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina has the No. 44 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Schools. Additionally, it has one of the most unique college mascots: Cocky the fighting gamecock. 

USC’s online programs apply the same rigorous academic standards as their on-campus counterparts. Online learners can pursue more than five flexible doctoral programs.

Teachers dreaming of adding “doctor” to their titles can pursue a 100% online Doctor of Education. This Ed.D. focuses on curriculum and instruction. You can further specialize your studies in educational technology, STEM education, or curriculum studies. The curriculum studies concentration focuses on social justice issues within education. You will learn how to create more educational equity across socio-economic backgrounds.

USC also has several options to complete doctoral-level coursework online in its College of Engineering and Computing. Ph.D. programs in areas like computer science and nuclear engineering incorporate online components. However, in-person residencies should also be expected.

Learn more about a doctorate degree at University of South Carolina here .

Doctoral Program: Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important for a school to be accredited.

A doctoral degree takes time and determination. Before you begin, you want to guarantee the value of your efforts. Accreditation does just that. It lets you rest assured that you are receiving a quality education from a reputable university. 

There are two types of accreditation in higher education: institutional and programmatic. Agencies like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education ensure that schools within their regions are meeting higher educational standards across all programs. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission ( SACSCOC ) accredits degrees for higher education in the southern states.

Professional associations, like the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association or the Council on Social Work Education , provide accreditation to specific academic programs. These ensure that a program’s curriculum is based on the core competencies that are needed in that line of work. 

When looking at PhD programs, check for accreditation.

What types of jobs does a Doctoral degree lead to?

In most cases, a Doctor of Philosophy, or a Ph.D., is required to teach at a four-year college or university. If you dream of being a professor, you’ll need a doctorate in your field. 

Keep in mind, academia does not work like Corporate America where employees are often promoted from within. Departments do not typically hire their own Ph.D. candidates after graduation. This might make pursuing your degree online even more attractive. You then won’t need to move for your program and then move again for your job.

Teaching or conducting research at a university, however, is not the only goal among doctoral candidates. If you want to work as a clinical psychologist, you’ll likely need a doctorate. A doctorate degree can also help you reach the highest leadership roles in healthcare or education systems, working as a chief health officer or chief academic officer, for example.

Bottom line: as a doctoral candidate your goal will be to advance knowledge in your field. This degree might not be a requirement for reaching the next step in your career. But by becoming a thought leader in your industry, it will undoubtedly help.

And regardless of which easiest doctoral degree you pursue, you can likely find many different places to work.

What’s a professional degree?

When you hear “doctoral degree,” you might first think of a medical doctor. Yes, doctors earn a Doctor of Medicine, but this degree is often referred to as a professional degree. Other professional degrees include lawyer, which requires a Juris Doctorate, and dentist, which requires a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry. 

How long does a Doctoral program last?

Your program might only take three years, but it also might take seven. The time it takes to graduate will depend on what you choose to study and your educational background.

Some Ph.D. programs admit students with only a bachelor’s degree. These programs often take longer to complete because you’ll earn your master’s along the way. If you already have a master’s degree, you might graduate faster, as long as your credits are transferable. 

Of course, the length of your program also depends on how long it takes you to finish your dissertation or capstone project. Many online programs incorporate research-focused courses to keep your dissertation on track. These classes cover steps in the process, like how to choose a topic, conduct a literature review, or submit to scholarly publications.

Do all Doctoral programs require a dissertation?

No, professional doctorate programs do not always require a dissertation.

Dissertations often focus on your field’s big picture ideas, or theories. You might decide to develop an applied research project instead.

For example, if you are earning a Doctor of Education because you want to lead your school district, you might choose to create a data-led solution to a problem currently faced by the district. 

If you’re wondering, “what is the easiest doctorate degree?”, one without a dissertation is a good place to start.

These universities all look great. How do I narrow my choices?

If you’re interested in earning a doctoral degree , you likely already have a research topic in mind. You’ll want to find a faculty mentor who is an expert on this topic. Not only will this provide you with a worthy guide, but it will also save you time.

Your research will require a survey of current literature on your topic, and a knowledgeable faculty mentor can help jumpstart this step in the process. 

It’s important not to just consider “what is the easiest PhD to get.” Instead, find your passion, too. If you’re interested in what you’re studying, the learning will be much easier!

Continue your school search with these rankings:

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out our Top 30 Fastest Accredited Online Graduate Colleges and the Ten Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges !

• Graduate School

The Easiest PhD Programs to Get into

Should you pursue a masters or a PhD , it will still take several years to complete your degree, even if you are accepted to one of the easiest PhD programs to get into. You could be spending up to seven or eight years of your life pursuing a PhD, only to end up scratching your head thinking about how to transition from academia to industry or how to get a job after grad school . However, if you’re convinced you have the passion, patience, time, and resources to pursue a PhD and see it as a way to advance your career or professional ambitions, then you should read this article to find out more about how to find a postdoc , the easiest PhD programs to get into and how to apply.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

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Article Contents 10 min read

Easiest phd programs to get into, 1. adams state university – doctor of philosophy (phd) in counselor education and supervision (ce&s).

This is an online program offered by Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado. Students must complete 6 credit hours per semester, for up to 3 to 4 years. The entirety of the course is done online, but students are also required to participate in a one-week summer residency every year of their program at the Adams State University campus. This program is easy to get into because you do not need to submit GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores to be considered.

You do need to submit a letter of intent, so you would be better off reading about how to write an effective statement of intent before submitting your application. The length of the letter should be between 3–4 pages and address a series of questions like:

• “Why are you pursuing a doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Adams State University?”
• “What personal and professional dispositions are essential for future counselor educators and supervisors?”
•  “Describe your professional plans with a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, post-graduation.”

Want to learn top strategies you can use when writing your grad school statement of purpose? Watch this video:

You will also be asked to submit reference letters and a CV; all graduate students should know how to write a CV for grad school , as it is a common requirement for entry into graduate programs. Applicants with a master’s degree in counseling who also hold state certification to work as a counselor in their home state are given preference.

Admission Requirements

• A master’s degree from an accredited university or college
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 (must be maintained throughout the four years)
• Minimum two years of professional experience as a counselor post-grad

UTEP offers several doctorate programs in areas such as biosciences, civil engineering, and business administration, but those programs have several high-level admissions requirements like submitting GRE scores and mastery of complicated subjects like statistics and mathematics. However, the PhD in English Rhetoric and Composition only requires either:

• A bachelor’s degree in English or
• A master’s degree in English

Students who apply with only a bachelor’s degree must first complete the Master of English Rhetoric and Composition at UTEP. They need to complete the six-credit course requirement and present a master’s thesis. After completing their master’s, they continue to complete the PhD program requirements.

Successful students are given up to eight years to complete the degree, but they may receive their PhD sooner as long as they satisfy the 45–51 credit hours required to obtain the degree. What makes this degree attractive is not only the academic requirements, but the many career opportunities afforded graduates who can apply their degree to fields as diverse as education, business, and government.

• Official transcripts of all previous work
• Three letters of recommendation either from previous instructors or professional references 
• A description of their educational goals
• A description of their approach to writing and teaching
• Two writing samples: a research paper and a personal writing sample

3. Prescott College – PhD in Sustainability Education

Prescott College is a private university in Prescott, Arizona, that has a near 99% acceptance rate for all programs, including the newly created PhD program in Sustainability Education. This near perfect acceptance rate stands in contrast to much lower medical school acceptance rates , which are often in the single digits. This PhD program is interdisciplinary and blends disciplines like pedagogy, environmental science, and social justice studies.

The other aspects of the program that make it attractive are the fact that there are few admissions requirements. Students do not have to submit any GRE or GMAT scores. Neither do they have to pay any application fees. Successful applicants can choose to take classes part-time, if they have other responsibilities, but the entire class format is online, which is another accommodation to mature or professional students.

Similar graduate sustainability education programs in the US and Canada last for up to 4 years, but Prescott College does not mention how long their program lasts. The small class size and experienced faculty also make this PhD program an option for someone who wants to pursue research in environmental sustainability, with career options ranging from becoming faculty or working as a sustainability officer for businesses and government.

Contact the program director directly to find out more about admission requirements and other information.

4. University of Michigan/Rackham Graduate School – PhD in Anthropology

The Rackham Graduate School at the University of Michigan offers a 7-year PhD in Anthropology that has relaxed admission requirements, like not requiring students to take or submit GRE scores or any other standardized graduate school exams. But the program has other requirements, such as the documentation listed below.

Prospective students do not need a master’s degree to apply, but they must have at least a bachelor’s degree. However, students can complete a master’s while on the PhD track. The PhD program has an acceptance rate of 4.6%, so it is one of the easier PhD programs to get into, given that prospective students do not have to take any standardized tests or have a graduate degree.

• Application form
• Application fee
• Admissions Conduct Code
• Statement of purpose (1000–1500 words)
• Personal statement (500 words maximum)
• Letters of recommendation (3)
• Official transcripts 
• Writing sample (optional, 30-page maximum)

5. The University of Tennessee at Knoxville – PhD in Sociology

UTK offers several PhD level programs, but the PhD in sociology is one of the easiest PhD programs to get into since applicants do not need to take the GRE. All successful students must choose from one of the four core concepts to complete the sociology degree, which are:

• Criminology
• Critical Race and Ethnic Studies
• Environmental Sociology
• Political Economy and Globalization

Students explore each aspect of their chosen subject, which all have their unique credit and non-credit requirements to complete the degree. Along with this first area of study, students must choose a second area of study revolving around social theory or statistics. All students must complete a minimum of 27 credits or 9 courses within each core concept and take another 12 elective credits or 4 courses in one of the other four concentrations, a foreign language course, a graduate certificate in statistics, or a science minor.

If accepted, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 throughout the duration of the program and meet academic benchmarks established by them and the sociology department. The school does not state the length of the program, but all students must pass comprehensive exams in one of the four main concepts, write a dissertation, and present and defend it orally to complete the degree requirements.

• Master’s or JD degree in sociology or a related field
• Overall undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.00 or higher
• Three letters of recommendation
• Writing sample
• Personal statement

6. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – PhD in Urban Education : Adult, Continuing, and Higher Education Leadership (ACHEL)

This PhD program gives students seven years to complete all the degree requirements but does not require that they take the GRE or submit GRE scores no older than five years for admission. Some of the admissions requirements are document-based, meaning students must submit several types of writing to qualify.

All applicants must have at least a 2.75 undergraduate GPA, which is much lower than the typical 3.0 that most PhD programs require, to be considered. They must also have an undergraduate or master’s degree. The written requirements include submitting one of the following, with a maximum word count of 1500 words:

• Master’s thesis
• Undergraduate senior thesis
• Technical report
• Publication
• Written description of a project
• Action research project
• Writing sample answering the question, “How would you conceptualize and analyze issues in urban education?”

Students must also submit a Reasons Statement, in which you are encouraged to talk about the entirety of your background, such as why you are pursuing a PhD, your interests and background in the field, skills and training, and academic honors or awards.

Aside from the above written samples, prospective students must also submit a graduate CV and three letters of recommendation. There are no specific requirements for who must write the letters, but the letter writers are encouraged to write about the candidate’s past experiences and how they connect to the school’s PhD program.

• Undergraduate or master’s degree
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75
• 1500-word writing sample
• Reasons Statement
• 3 letters of recommendation

There are as many persuasive reasons to pursue a PhD as there are not to pursue one. If you want to know how to find a PhD topic or program, this article has outlined a few examples of some of the “easiest” PhD programs to get into. But completing a PhD is another matter. There are no “easy” PhD programs to complete since they all take years of hard work and dedication. Ultimately, the easiest program for you will be one you are completely immersed in and thoroughly enjoy; focusing on why the program is a great fit is a winning strategy when preparing your application materials.

One reality you have to confront is that the attrition rate for most PhDs is somewhere between 36–51% across a variety of fields and disciplines ranging from the arts and humanities to engineering and life sciences. The other thing you should know – and something all PhD admission consultants should tell you – is that pursuing a PhD is an all-encompassing commitment that will take over your life. As discussed above, program lengths are measured in years (minimum of five) and there are few guarantees that, if you do finish, you will be able to reap the rewards, at least in the short term.

Another growing demographic comprises people who complete all the requirements to obtain a PhD (coursework, credits) but fail on the most crucial element: writing and defending a dissertation. These students are known as “all but dissertation” and are forced to explain to prospective employers why they failed.

As if actually completing the degree wasn’t hard enough. the labor market is not always welcoming to PhDs either. High-level positions in government and academia often filled by PhDs are not plentiful, and other industries will require skill sets that PhD graduates typically do not have, such as managerial or organizational knowhow.

Whether you benefit from obtaining a PhD in the end depends on many factors, like your field and whether you’re an expert in an in-demand profession (computer science, bioengineering, engineering). While many graduate students enter doctorate programs to secure financial stability, other students are interested purely in acquiring knowledge and researching a topic or subject that they are passionate about. For these students, getting a PhD and all the attendant aspects (learning, investigating, writing) have an inherent value, so the less-than-stellar employment prospects or salary gains are not a priority. That’s not to suggest they are not mindful of the real-world costs of a getting a doctorate; rather, they are willing to put in the effort to fund their studies by applying for grants, working as part-time faculty or securing public or private loans, and accepting the bare-bones lifestyle of many graduate students.

Reasons to Get a PhD

More Employment Opportunities

PhDs do make more money than other degree types, like masters, but not by a lot. Some studies say PhDs earn up to $13,000 more than lower degree-holders, but it is more complicated than that. Those earnings only start to show after decades. Master’s graduates have a head-start on PhDs and enter the workforce much earlier than PhD students, so they start saving and earning more.

PhDs may have more employment opportunities open to them, in either academia or the private sector, but starting salaries for PhDs top out at $50,000. Moreover, by the time PhD graduates start looking for jobs, master’s graduates have already ascended to senior or executive positions earning six figures and more. Positions that offer starting six-figure salaries also do not often require candidates to have PhDs, giving master’s graduates yet another advantage.

Life-Long Research and Learning Opportunities

Money isn’t everything. Many PhD students are not motivated by financial gain or opportunity but are simply passionate about exploring and investigating a particular field for a lifetime. Funding this research is always a concern, but one component of becoming a PhD is learning how to write grant applications or fundraise in other ways that are essential to keeping research projects going.

Learning Valuable Skills

Skills like grant writing, fundraising, and networking are good to have if you want to know how to find a job in academia , and there are private sector companies that value them as well, but PhDs should also try to incorporate other skill sets into their toolkit. If they are interested, they can pursue dual-degree programs that pair a PhD with another degree type like an MBA or a medical degree, such as an MD-PhD program . They can also seek out professional development courses that prepare them for entering the workforce once they complete their degree, if they decide to go into the private sector.

Becoming an Expert

Some of the allure of a PhD is the authority it gives in a specific topic or subject, which means you are someone who is regularly sought out by various sectors and industries for expert advice. Being the foremost expert in a particular field can unlock many opportunities, but your specialty determines how much you can earn or what those opportunities are.

You can find that your expertise suddenly falls out of favor, like all the hundreds of Soviet physicists who had nothing to do once the USSR defunded the space program. But the opposite can also happen. Think of all the previously anonymous MDs and PhDs who became household names during the COVID-19 pandemic because they were experts in virology, immunology, or epidemiology.

The easiest PhD programs to get into are not the easiest ones to complete. Ultimately, if you are thinking about entering a PhD program, you need to weigh the benefits (potentially higher earnings, more employment opportunities, expert-level education) of pursuing the degree and the disadvantages (significant investment of time and money, uncertain job market, lost earnings). Go into the project with eyes open and a topic you want to study for many years, and your PhD experience will be much easier.

There is no easy answer. If you are someone who wants to pursue a particular line of investigation that requires years of observation and experimentation, then getting a PhD may seem like a natural path. But if you are more concerned about raising your earning potential or seeking more senior positions, in general, a master’s degree checks all those boxes without having to invest so much time and money. 

Any PhD program that does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores (GRE or GMAT) or have a master’s degree is generally easier to get into than other programs, but these programs have their own requirements, which could involve anything from writing personal statements and letters of intent to one-on-one interviews. 

All PhD programs are different, and they can variously require applicants to have a master’s degree, GRE or GMT scores above 300, and demonstrated aptitude in various fields, especially if you are pursuing a PhD in the sciences or engineering. There are also written requirements like submitting letter of intent, research resume , and a record of other notable academic or non-academic achievements. 

The answer is yes and no. Over many years, your education and training will pay off as you slowly start to pull away from other degree types in terms of salary. But it will take many years. During this time, other degree holders can attain higher positions and salaries that are comparable to yours, thereby negating any future gains. 

The duration of every PhD program is different, but the minimum length of most PhD programs is six years. Some schools have degree time limits – six or seven years, in some cases – meaning you must complete the program and present your dissertation by the time limit or be ejected. Master’s degrees, in comparison, usually take only about two years to complete. 

If you are wondering whether you need a master’s or PhD to apply to medical school s, the answer is no. However, if you are applying as a non-traditional medical school applicant who has a master’s or doctorate in another field, it can help improve your medical school application. 

The assumption is that PhD graduates generally do very well in the labor market. They do have low unemployment rates when compared to other degree holders. But one obstacle PhD graduates run into is having “surplus schooling”; in other words, they are over-qualified for a majority of positions. Only 2% of positions in the labor market require a PhD, which is one thing to remember if you are thinking about pursuing a doctorate. 

The cost of a five-year degree ranges between $150,000 and $200,000, but there are some PhD programs that provide full funding as well as a stipend. PhD students also work as teaching assistants for up to two years and can apply for grants or secure other funding sources like federal aid loans. 

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Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)

Are you looking for a career boost and want a doctoral degree as quickly as possible? We rank the fastest online PhD doctoral programs in psychology.

Earning a PhD in psychology can open doors to prestigious career opportunities, but the long time commitment often deters busy professionals. For those looking to expedite the process, there are accelerated online doctoral programs that allow you to obtain your psychology PhD faster without sacrificing rigor or quality.

We’ve done the research to rank the top accelerated online psychology doctorates focused on speed, flexibility, academic excellence, and value - allowing you to further your career on your own time.

Key Takeaways

• The average time to earn a PhD in psychology through online doctoral programs is six to ten years.
• Accelerated online doctoral degree programs in psychology can take as little as two to four years!
• While accelerated online doctoral degree programs take less time to finish than traditional ones, they do require students to carry a heavier workload.

Featured Programs

The fastest accelerated online psychology doctorate degrees.

Below are the fastest online PsyD programs you can apply to. They’re all excellent schools offering online psychology programs that you can remotely attend.

TLDR? If you’re the best PsyD program that you can complete the fastest online, Alliant International University is going to be the best choice for you. You can get a Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology in two years, which is very fast to earn a PhD in psychology .

Alliant International University

Tuition + fees

Student body

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Alliant International University

Alliant International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Criminal Justice
• Social Work
• Political Science
• Computer Science

Most Influential Alumni

• Maulana Karenga
• Barry Black
• John Barrowman
• Yvonne Sanchez

Alliant International University offers various undergraduate and graduate degree programs that help students obtain the skills and knowledge necessary for their fields. Alliant is mainly known for its graduate and online degree programs. Additionally, Alliant emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, practicals, consulting, and community service initiatives to help students receive the professional practice they need.

One of Alliant’s vastly known online doctoral programs is the accelerated  Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology.  With only two years of average completion time, this PsyD is one, if not the shortest, online doctoral program. This program has an 8-week calendar with 11 terms and 4 phases. The second year offers the PsyD project’s Final Phase, and students are expected to complete it by the end of their second year.

Only those with a master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field will be eligible for this fast and accelerated online PsyD program. Additionally, applicants with a license or certification in school psychology can obtain the School Psychology Track.

• Required Credits: 50
• Completion time: 2 years
• Format: Online

What we love about Alliant International University

Alliant’s recognition as one of the country’s most military-friendly universities and being a top provider of graduate degrees for minorities for the past six years.

Alliant International University is great for students who:

Want diversity but still be able to attend small-sized classes.

Alliant International University might not be the best fit for students who:

Wish to have plenty of time for Greek life.

University of Arizona Global Campus

Career outlook for psychology degree at university of arizona global campus.

University of Arizona Global Campus’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Anthropology
• Engineering

The University of Arizona’s Global Campus is among the biggest and most progressive online campuses in the United States. UAGC has expanded into a national online organization dedicated to assisting adult learners in achieving their personal and professional goals from a small, traditional college. UAGC is mainly known for its accelerated 5- to 6-week courses, which fit students who want to earn their degrees faster but with the same curriculum and rigor.

UAGC’s Doctor of Psychology is among the fastest online doctoral programs. Students are expected to follow a 4-year term, complete all coursework by the end of their third year, and focus on the Applied Doctoral Project during their fourth year. This accelerated online program is designed for students who can fully commit to their studies and aspire to become practitioners who desire to serve the community by enhancing their clients’ emotional and mental health.

This program offers three specializations: Criminology and Justice Studies, Health and Wellness Psychology, and Sport and Performance Psychology. Applicants, however, must note that this is not a licensure program. Prospective online students outside Arizona should confirm with their state if this online program’s curriculum meets their state licensure examination requirements.

• Required Credits: 62
• Completion time: 4 years

What we love about the University of Arizona - Global Campus

The opportunities to attend on-campus networking and other social events.

The University of Arizona - Global Campus is great for students who:

Are focused and committed to their studies.

The University of Arizona - Global Campus might not be the best fit for students who:

Do not have the determination and capacities to keep up with fast-paced courses.

Walden University

• #2 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
• #3 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
• #4 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
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• #18 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Walden University

Walden University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• John Antonakis
• Eboni Edmonson Haynes

Walden University is a top-ranked institution for offering comprehensive online degree programs and allowing students to choose between Course-Based Learning and Tempo Learning formats. Students looking for more flexible ways to earn a degree often choose the Tempo Learning format, while those who prefer a fast-paced and more engaging curriculum prefer Course-Based Learning.

Walden offers a hybrid PhD in Psychology with a fast-track option. Unlike the traditional 2 courses per term plan, online doctoral students who enroll in the fast-track option should follow a strict 3 courses per term plan. This accelerated degree program aims to cut the average completion time to half; traditional students complete the PhD program in eight years, while those in the fast-track doctoral program can complete all coursework in four years.

Eligible online students can choose from six tracks/concentrations: Educational Psychology, Health Psychology, Research in Psychology, Self-Designed, Social Psychology , or Teaching in Psychology.

• Required Credits: 65
• Format: Hybrid

What we love about Walden University

Walden is greatly known for offering opportunities for busy working adult students to earn a flexible and affordable degree.

Walden University is great for students who:

Are busy with their personal or professional lives and have no time for traditional classes.

Walden University might not be the best fit for students who:

Want a traditional college experience, such as Greek life, living in a dorm, and on-campus classes.

Liberty University

• #2 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
• #9 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #19 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #1 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate in Economics
• #1 Best Online Associate in Philosophy
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Associate in Education
• #1 Best Online Associate in Mathematics
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs
• #2 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
• #2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
• #2 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
• #2 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
• #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
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• #3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
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• #3 Best Online Master's in Theology
• #3 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies
• #3 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
• #3 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #4 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #4 Best Online Associate in Accounting
• #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
• #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois
• #4 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #4 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
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• #4 Best Online Associate in Psychology
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
• #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
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• #6 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs
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• #6 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
• #7 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #7 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
• #7 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #7 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
• #8 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
• #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
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• #9 Best Online Associate's in Physics
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• #9 Best Online Master's in Biology
• #9 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
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• #11 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
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• #12 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
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• #15 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
• #16 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
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• #18 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
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• #18 Best Online Master’s in Finance
• #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
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• #25 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
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• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Associate's of Counseling Degree Programs
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• #5 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
• #6 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
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Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Liberty University

Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Religious Studies
• Communications
• Ravi Zacharias
• Susan Wise Bauer
• Michael R. Licona
• Robert H. Smith
• Michael Tait
• Jerry Falwell Jr.

Liberty University  is one of the most prominent Christian liberal arts colleges that emphasizes faith and competitive learning and is a pioneer in online education. On the other hand, non-Christian students can also apply for Liberty’s degree programs. The institution offers over 700 academic majors and degree programs with cutting-edge technology and esteemed faculty.

Liberty is also known to offer fast-paced online doctorate programs, one being the online  PhD in Psychology  designed for graduate students who want a better grasp of psychology and human behavior. Students can transfer up to 50% of their previous credit hours to the PhD program to help them finish their online doctorate faster than the program’s 3-year average completion time.

This online accelerated online PhD doctoral degree program specializes in Behavioral Health Leadership, Developmental Psychology, General Psychology, Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Social Psychology, and Theology. Online graduate students have optional on-campus intensives to meet with peers and faculty for better engagement.

• Required Credits: 60
• Completion time: 3 years

What we love about Liberty University

The doctoral programs that help students simultaneously strengthen their faith and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for their chosen field

Liberty University is great for students who:

Want to put Christ in the middle of their learning.

Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer not to get involved in religion.

George Mason University

• #2 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
• #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #14 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #1 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #2 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
• #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs
• #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #5 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at George Mason University

George Mason University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Earth Sciences
• Tyler Cowen
• Peter Boettke
• Stephen Moore
• Steven Horwitz
• Alex Tabarrok
• Peter Leeson
• Fred Foldvary
• Stephen Blair Hedges
• Jon Gettman
• Richard Bausch
• Ivan Katchanovski

George Mason University is Virginia’s most diverse public research institution, offering over 200 majors that lead to bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees. GMU is known to prepare students to pursue fulfilling lives and prosperous careers through a well-rounded curriculum and engaging campus community. Its on-campus degrees are also famous for offering fast and accelerated courses for students in doctoral programs that can be completed quickly.

GMU offers one of the shortest on-campus doctoral programs in psychology. The PhD in Psychology allows students to transfer up to 30 credit hours from their master’s degree in psychology, which will help them approach their final projects faster and graduate earlier. Doctoral students obtain expertise in the fundamental areas of psychology and receive hands-on experience to help address issues in relationships, the workplace, and education.

The program’s concentrations include Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Human Factors/Applied Cognition, Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Psychology, and Applied Developmental Psychology.

• Required Credits: 72-79
• Format: On-campus

What we love about George Mason University

Diversity and inclusivity.

George Mason University is great for students who:

Want to live in a busy city and campus.

George Mason University might not be the best fit for students who:

Thrive with individualized attention and one-on-one interactions with advisors.

Pepperdine University

• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in California
• #3 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
• #3 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #4 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
• #5 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
• #11 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #23 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Pepperdine University

Pepperdine University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Michael Shermer
• Molefi Kete Asante
• Christine Blasey Ford
• Mike Cernovich
• James Tabor
• Steven Barnes
• John Lasseter
• Michelle Fields
• Mike Aamodt
• Dennis Johnson
• Richard de Mille
• J. Richard Chase

Pepperdine University , a Christian university, is dedicated to offering the highest academic performance standards and Christian principles. Because Pepperdine is also a liberal arts university, its 45 majors and 47 minors include liberal arts foundational courses and courses related to Christianity. Pepperdine, however, is one of the most expensive institutions.

Nevertheless, many students still choose to enroll at the university because of the supportive faculty and rigorous academic programs.

The on-campus  PsyD in Clinical Psychology  at Pepperdine University has an average graduation time of 4 years—half the average completion time of most doctoral programs. This psychology online doctorate degree program uses a practitioner-scholar paradigm, combining academic study, clinical practice, and research.

Doctoral students must follow the program’s strict timetable and complete coursework within three years and internship and clinical dissertation within a year.

This fast PysD is best suited for students who can fully commit all their time and effort to the program. Students have four university-based clinics serving as practical training locations and three external training rotations around southern California. The extensive hands-on training will prepare students to become licensed psychologists.

• Required Credits: 82

What we love about Pepperdine University

The beautiful campus and supportive faculty. Faculty members offer individualized attention to each student and guide them toward success.

Pepperdine University is great for students who:

Thrive in a small, tight-knit campus community.

Pepperdine University might not be the best fit for students who:

Want to explore diverse curricular offerings and thrive in large-sized campuses with many school parties.

George Washington University

• #2 Best Colleges in DC 2024
• #6 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in DC
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #5 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
• #6 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
• #6 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
• #10 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #7 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at George Washington University

George Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• J. Edgar Hoover
• L. Ron Hubbard
• Glenn Greenwald
• Bob Woodward
• Allen Dulles
• George Armitage Miller
• Juan Guaidó
• Roger Stone
• James E. Webb
• Michael D. Griffin
• Lester Frank Ward
• Brian Williams

Because of its campus location, academic rigor, and distinguished faculty, George Washington University confidently offers students a global-impacting education. GWU gives students learning opportunities inside and outside the classrooms, thanks to its partnership with the community and access to start-up and Fortune 500 firms. Additionally, GWU provides various funding options to support unpaid internships to help students have the best GW experience without worrying much about their educational costs.

Additionally, GWU’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology is an on-campus degree designed to help students earn a doctorate faster. Students will complete four years of clinical psychology education and training, which includes three years of focusing on coursework and a year of internship. Students without a master’s degree in psychology can earn one while earning a doctorate.

The school’s accelerated programs, like the PsyD doctoral program focuses on equipping students with the necessary skills and information to assess and manage psychopathology and seek employment in various professional settings. During their second year, students will choose one of the program’s three tracks as a major area of study: Adult, Assessment, or Child and Adolescent.

• Required Credits: 83

What we love about George Washington University

The location is the best thing about GWU. Students have access to thousands of internship opportunities, which can help them obtain employment immediately after graduation.

George Washington University is great for students who:

Want to live in a fast-paced environment and become active in school and social activities.

George Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer a quiet campus and one that offers more affordable psychology degree programs .

Saint Louis University

• #3 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2024
• #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2024
• #3 Best Colleges in Missouri 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Missouri 2024
• #3 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
• #4 Best Online Master's in Project Management
• #4 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
• #5 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #5 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #6 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
• #7 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
• #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #14 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
• #17 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Garry Wills
• Walter J. Ong
• Marilyn vos Savant
• Harvey Itano
• Walter Brueggemann
• Elizabeth Bates
• Gary Gutting
• Imogene King
• Frederick K. Goodwin
• Richard Kieckhefer
• Robert J. Richards
• Walter Halloran

St. Louis University is the first Catholic university in the US and one of the only 15 Catholic universities to receive a very high classification for research from the Carnegie Foundation. In addition to its ground-breaking research, SLU is known for fostering deep dedication to faith and service and having more than 1.6 million hours of volunteer work annually.

SLU’s PhD in Clinical Psychology offers a fast four-year curriculum for students who enter the degree program with a master’s degree. While this PhD program primarily focuses on adult clinical psychology, students can choose their major study area. Specializations include Clinical Child Psychology, Trauma Psychology, Clinical Neuropsychology, Health Psychology, Or Sports Psychology.

There is a required on-campus training in psychological assessment by the Psychological Services Center. Additionally, students can receive training in health psychology, pediatric and clinical child psychology, academic psychology, and neuropsychology.

• Required Credits: 78

What we love about St. Louis University

The individualized teaching style that helps students reach their full academic potential.

St. Louis University is great for students who:

Thrive in a close-knit community and enjoy studying with other people.

St. Louis University might not be the best fit for students who:

Avoid social interactions. SLU encourages students to participate in school activities and form lifelong bonds.

Career Outlook for Students with Psychology Degree

Degree level: doctorate.

• Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
• Avg. Starting Salary*: $65,225
• Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $90,375
• * denotes ‘annually’

Career Salaries

Average career salaries, promising job markets, top industries, why are accelerated online doctoral programs in psychology a good option.

For most working professionals, especially those who want opportunities for a tenure track in academia, PhD doctoral programs are the ultimate goal. However, traditional and most online programs take a long time to complete.

Unfortunately, many students don’t have the time or financial resources to enroll in traditional doctorate degree programs.

According to U.S. News & World Report data, the average time for completing a PhD is six to ten years. The curriculum in a traditional psychology PhD doctoral program involves up to 100 credits of advanced seminars, dissertation work, and research assistantships.

According to a report, the rate of students actually completing all coursework for their PhD doctoral programs in ten years is only 56.6%.

Bottom Line: A traditional doctorate degree program in psychology is a huge time and financial commitment to complete. On the other hand, an online doctoral degree in psychology can be completed in less time and potentially for a lower total investment.

PsyD Doctorate Degree vs. PhD Doctoral Program in Psychology

The most significant distinction between a PhD doctoral program in psychology and a Doctor of Psychology is the focus. Psychology PhDs focus on the theoretical and abstract aspects of psychology. On the other hand, PsyD programs typically concentrate on the application of information.

While both the PhD and PsyD in psychology are respected and rigorous advanced degrees, they cater to different career paths and interests within psychology. Prospective students should consider their long-term career goals, interest in research versus clinical practice, and the type of impact they wish to have when choosing between these two paths.

Educational Focus and Curriculum

Phd in psychology.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology is deeply rooted in the science of psychology, emphasizing research methodology, statistical analysis, and the contribution of new knowledge to the field.

PhD programs often require students to engage in extensive research projects, culminating in a dissertation that contributes original academic research to the field. The curriculum typically includes a blend of coursework in advanced psychological theories, research methods, and statistical analysis, alongside teaching and research assistantships.

PsyD (Doctor of Psychology)

In contrast, the PsyD focuses more on the practical application of psychological knowledge to clinical settings. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for practice-oriented careers, with a stronger emphasis on clinical skills, assessments, interventions, and psychological testing.

PsyD programs still require research, but the projects often aim to inform clinical practice directly rather than advance theoretical knowledge. The dissertation may take a more applied form, focusing on case studies, program evaluations, or action research that has direct implications for practice.

Career Outcomes

Graduates are typically prepared for academia, research, and high-level consulting careers. They may become professors, lead researchers in government or private sectors, or specialists in advanced psychological assessment and intervention strategies. A PhD is often preferred for those seeking tenure-track faculty positions or roles that prioritize research and theoretical knowledge.

PsyD graduates are likelier to pursue careers in clinical settings, such as private practices, hospitals, mental health centers, and school districts. They are trained to be practitioners who apply psychological knowledge to diagnose, treat, and support individuals with mental health issues.

While PsyD holders can also engage in research, their primary focus tends to be on delivering psychological services directly to clients.

Research Component

Phd programs.

This requires a significant research component, with students expected to complete a dissertation based on original research that advances the field of psychology. The rigorous research process involves experimental design, data collection and analysis, and substantial literature review.

PsyD Programs

While research is still a component of PsyD programs, it is generally more applied, focusing on practical issues in clinical practice. The dissertation may involve empirical research but is often more focused on outcomes relevant to clinical settings.

Nature of Coursework

Phd coursework.

It tends to be more theoretical, focusing on the foundations of psychological science, research methodologies, and statistical analysis. Students may also engage in teaching, further preparing them for academic roles.

PsyD Coursework

It is more clinically oriented, emphasizing developing therapeutic skills, understanding diagnostic criteria, and applying psychological theories to clinical practice. PsyD students often spend more time in practicum placements or internships to gain direct clinical experience.

What Do We Mean by the Fastest Accelerated Doctorate and PhD Programs in Psychology?

Psychology doctorate degrees, especially PhDs, can take up to ten years to complete. Students who enroll in traditional coursework and follow the suggested course sequencing graduate within four to six years.

Accelerated online doctorate degree programs in psychology provide a quicker route to a degree for individuals who want to finish their studies sooner. These programs typically take from two to four years to complete.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Fast Accelerated Online Doctorates and PhD Programs

Many colleges offer accelerated PhD programs that guarantee faster degree completion. Prospective students with other important obligations may consider an accelerated degree program as they start selecting the best curriculum.

But just because accelerated online programs have a significant advantage, they still come with a cost.

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of fast, accelerated online doctorate degree programs in psychology before enrolling in one.

• Time Efficiency:  Accelerated programs allow students to complete their doctorate degrees in significantly less time than traditional programs, which is ideal for professionals eager to advance their careers without a lengthy educational hiatus.
• Flexibility:  Online formats offer the flexibility to study from anywhere, accommodating students with work, family, or other commitments that make attending on-campus classes challenging.
• Cost-Effectiveness:  Completing a degree in a shorter timeframe can result in lower tuition fees and related costs, making it a financially attractive option for many students.
• Intensive Learning:  Accelerated programs are often more intensive, providing a rigorous curriculum that can quickly build advanced knowledge and skills.
• Career Advancement:  Graduates can enter or advance in the workforce sooner, potentially achieving professional goals and increasing earnings more quickly than through traditional routes.

Disadvantages

• Workload Intensity:  The accelerated pace means a heavier workload and less time to absorb and understand the material, which can be stressful and challenging for some students.
• Limited Networking Opportunities:  Online formats may offer fewer opportunities for in-person networking with peers and faculty, which can be a drawback for building professional relationships and collaborations.
• Reduced Research Opportunities:  Some accelerated programs may offer limited time for in-depth research, potentially impacting the quality or scope of the dissertation project.
• Quality Concerns:  There is a perception that accelerated programs may not provide the same depth of learning or prestige as traditional doctoral programs, which could affect post-graduation opportunities.
• Self-Discipline Requirement:  Success in accelerated online programs requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation due to the fast pace and the nature of remote learning.
• Limited Specialization:  Accelerated programs may offer fewer specialization options, making it difficult for students with niche interests to find a program that fits their specific research goals.

Prospective students should weigh these advantages and disadvantages when considering an accelerated online doctorate degree in psychology. The decision should align with their career objectives, learning style, and personal circumstances to ensure the best possible outcome from their educational investment.

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What Is the Workload in an Accelerated Doctoral Degree Program in Psychology?

The shortest doctoral program online in psychology typically attracts non-traditional students with other obligations. These prospective students either have family and work commitments or want a faster way to get that career boost.

The Heavy Workload of Accelerated Programs

For these students, attending six to ten years of graduate school is just not realistic.

While the prospect of obtaining a degree more quickly can be quite alluring, if the student is unprepared for the time commitment, the fast pace can become too much and resulting in failing and/or dropping out.

In accelerated doctorate degree programs, students must finish the coursework in a condensed amount of time. This means that students will take on a much heavier workload compared to obtaining a doctorate degree through a traditional program.

Meeting the Challenges of Accelerated Programs

So, instead of enrolling in the usual 2 courses per term, students usually enroll in at least 3 courses per term. Or the length of a term may be condensed.

According to the Carnegie Unit Report , a traditional 14-week course equates to at least 3 hours of weekly student involvement and 6 hours for a 7-week course, essentially doubling the workload.

The Journal of Continuing Higher Education published the result of their qualitative study of accelerated degree programs. Some faculty and critics of the study found that these programs hinder the information transfer process and prevent the content from moving to the student’s long-term memory.

In contrast, one professor in the same qualitative study stated that the increased pace of the accelerated classes raised attendance rates. Additionally, the fast-paced courses helped the students stay on task and prepare for class.

Using Competency-Based Course Completion Models

Many colleges that provide graduate degrees online have switched to competency-based course completion models. The capacity of a student to complete a course is independent of when they started.

Students must instead demonstrate proficiency in key knowledge and/or skill areas. They can now advance at their own pace as a result. Through quick mastery and progression, highly driven students can breeze through classes and save critical time.

Even better, accelerated degree programs frequently incur lower costs because you spend less time in school. Many students also choose online programs because they save money by forgoing some expenses and fees related to on-campus study.

Learning Methods in Accelerated Online Psychology PhD Programs

Synchronous learning occurs when all of the students in a class are actively engaged in the learning process at the same time while listening to a lecture.

Asynchronous learning is learning on a student’s own time. They listen to pre-recorded lectures or complete guided projects or independent research.

Professors can choose synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid learning environments. In many accelerated online doctorate degree programs, professors often choose synchronous learning because of the rigid schedule.

A live lecture, live chat room, conference call, video conference, or Google Hangout are all used for synchronous learning.

Benefits of synchronous learning include:

• Students can ask their professors questions in real-time.
• Students develop a better sense of community and connection with peers and advisors.
• Students feel more engaged.
• Students develop enhanced collaboration skills.

Students can access recorded lectures, PowerPoint presentations, or reading assignments for asynchronous study at their convenience.

Benefits of asynchronous learning include:

• Students can move forward with their education whenever, in whatever order, and at whatever speed they choose.
• There is more time for students to consider what they have learned.
• Shy or introverted students will feel more comfortable and feel less pressure talking with their professors or peers.
• Students can participate in the same activities regardless of their location or time zone.

For students enrolled in remote education, the most significant disadvantage of synchronous learning is the need to be online at a specific time. This indicates that students are not free to access content whenever they wish. This can be a challenge for college students who have full-time jobs and other commitments like family.

Bottom Line: While synchronous learning is more engaging, asynchronous learning helps students engage with the material more deeply.

Why Choose an Accelerated Online Doctoral Degree in Psychology

Accelerated online doctorate degree programs could appeal to people who wish to enter the workforce sooner rather than later. Most prospective students are already employed and want to change or develop careers.

Some students may want to finish a degree program they started in the past or pursue an advanced degree. Some people consider an accelerated degree a quick method to switch careers.

Those who want to complete their education relatively quickly should be certain of their major and long-term objectives. Students pursuing an accelerated online doctoral degree boost their chances of success if they have a strong work ethic and the ability to encourage themselves, regardless of their educational background or experience.

Getting Started with an Accelerated Online Doctoral Degree in Psychology

Pursuing an accelerated PhD in psychology doctoral degree program is one of the hardest decisions in your life. Choosing the wrong program or university can cost you a fortune. So, it’s very important to do your research first.

Many universities claim that their accelerated online programs offer a comprehensive curriculum. This can only be proven through accreditation. The US Department of Education-approved accrediting agencies grant accreditation to the top colleges.

The following accrediting agencies grant regional accreditation in the United States:

• Higher Learning Commission
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• New England Association of Schools and Colleges
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Key Point: A college or university must be accredited in order to be eligible to offer financial aid to their students, even those in an online program. Visit the Federal Student Aid website for more information on applying for financial aid.

When considering online PhD programs, you can also see if the college or university is good by checking the following:

• University’s name, history, and reputation
• Student services and resources
• Faculty credentials
• Alumni network

If you have researched psychology online doctorate programs and have several on your wishlist, here are a few factors to include when comparing which university best suits your needs:

• Admission requirements
• Learning format
• Online courses available
• Specializations
• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Tuition and financial aid
• Residency, internship, or practical requirements
• Transfer credits

Earning a doctoral degree in psychology opens rewarding career opportunities in many settings. Those who obtain a PhD or PsyD in psychology are trained for careers in research, counseling, consulting, teaching, and more. These psychology doctorate holders are qualified to work in healthcare organizations, schools and universities, government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations.

Specifically, having a psychology doctorate degree enables individuals to work in advanced clinical positions as psychologists and counselors/therapists. A doctorate allows them to diagnose, assess, provide therapy, and treat patients across the lifespan.

Those with doctorates can work in private or group practice, hospitals, community health centers, schools, prisons, research facilities, and other settings. In addition, they may conduct psychological research or teach psychology at the university level.

Demand for these positions is projected to grow above average over the coming decade. Other occupations where a psychology doctorate is preferred include positions as sports psychologists, industrial-organizational consultants, cognitive/perception scientists, and forensic psychologists supporting the legal system.

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Related Questions

What is the shortest phd in psychology program.

The shortest PhD in Psychology programs available online are designed to be completed in a significantly reduced timeframe compared to traditional doctoral programs. These accelerated programs can often be completed in 2-4 years, depending on the student’s pace, the structure of the program, and prior academic credits that may apply.

They combine intensive coursework with practical research and dissertation work, offering a fast track to achieving a doctoral level of education in psychology. This expedited route particularly appeals to professionals looking to advance their careers without the time commitment required by traditional PhD programs.

Can You Skip a Masters and Get a PhD in Psychology?

Yes, it is possible to skip a master’s degree and directly pursue a PhD in Psychology in some programs. These integrated programs are designed to take students from undergraduate to doctoral level studies in psychology , combining the coursework and research requirements of both a master’s and a PhD into a single streamlined program.

This pathway allows motivated and qualified students to accelerate their academic and professional careers in psychology. However, admission into such programs can be highly competitive, and candidates may need to demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, research experience, and readiness for advanced study.

Is It Possible to Get a PhD in Psychology in 1 Year?

Completing a PhD in Psychology in just 1 year is highly improbable. PhD programs in psychology typically require extensive coursework, comprehensive exams, and a significant amount of original research leading to a dissertation.

The process is designed to ensure a deep level of expertise and competency in the field, which cannot feasibly be achieved in such a short timeframe. While you can complete some programs in 2 years, most accredited PhD programs in psychology take at least 4 to 6 years to complete, even with accelerated options.

Choosing a career path in psychology can be a lot of work yet rewarding. If you’re looking for online psychology doctorate programs that you can quickly finish, we recommend checking out one of the ones we’ve shared.

Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

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Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

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.

Top Schools for Online Accredited Ph.D. Programs

Capitol technology university.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $25,830
• Out-of-state $25,830
• Retention Rate 75%
• Acceptance Rate 47%
• Students Enrolled 796
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 98%
• Accreditation Yes

Clemson University

• In-State $14,118
• Out-of-state $37,110
• Retention Rate 94%
• Acceptance Rate 49%
• Students Enrolled 27,341
• Institution Type Public
• Percent Online Enrollment 49%

Keiser University

• In-State $20,800
• Out-of-state $20,800
• Retention Rate 72%
• Acceptance Rate 96%
• Students Enrolled 19,861
• Percent Online Enrollment 50%

Mississippi State University

• In-State $9,110
• Out-of-state $24,790
• Retention Rate 81%
• Acceptance Rate 76%
• Students Enrolled 23,086
• Percent Online Enrollment 43%

Nova Southeastern University

• In-State $33,510
• Out-of-state $33,510
• Retention Rate 78%
• Acceptance Rate 93%
• Students Enrolled 20,898
• Percent Online Enrollment 52%

Old Dominion University

• In-State $7,029
• Out-of-state $26,664
• Students Enrolled 23,494
• Percent Online Enrollment 76%

Saybrook University

• In-State $0
• Out-of-state $0
• Retention Rate 0%
• Acceptance Rate 0%
• Students Enrolled 915
• Percent Online Enrollment 100%

Texas Tech University

• In-State $8,935
• Out-of-state $21,204
• Retention Rate 85%
• Acceptance Rate 68%
• Students Enrolled 40,542
• Percent Online Enrollment 68%

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

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.

Online Ph.D. programs provide students with flexible schedules and affordable tuition. Check out the top-ranked programs in this comprehensive guide.

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5 routes to getting a Doctorate

While most of those studying for a PhD take the PhD by thesis pathway, there are five viable routes to achieving a Doctorate degree

PhD by thesis

This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate degree. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal .

A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions. For instance, the University of Glasgow's College of Social Sciences expects a thesis to be 70,000-100,000 words including references, bibliography and appendices, while the University of Cambridge has set an upper limit of 80,000 words.

Once completed, you'll need to defend your PhD thesis in front of a panel of examiners during your viva voce .

PhD by publication

This route involves submitting previously published work - such as books, book chapters and journal articles, which together form a coherent body of work and show evidence of an original contribution to a particular field of study.

It's often taken by mid-career academics that haven't had the opportunity to undertake a standard Doctorate degree.

Generally, a minimum of five to eight published pieces are required, but this varies between institutions and depends on their length. The published work will be assessed to the same rigorous standards as a traditional PhD by thesis.

You must also provide a written supporting statement, which can range from 5,000 to 20,000 words, and present your work to an academic committee. A supervisor will assist you with selecting which publications to submit and with the supporting statement.

Some universities accept only their own graduates for a PhD by publication, while others restrict this route to their academic staff. In general, you should have graduated from your first degree at least seven years ago to be eligible.

For example, The University of Manchester has published its own Guidance for the PhD By Published Work , with eligibility only extending to current members of staff.

Professional Doctorate

Geared primarily towards current professionals in vocational sectors such as healthcare , teaching and education , and engineering and manufacturing , this type of Doctorate degree includes a significant taught component and a smaller research project.

Professional Doctorates are often taken on a part-time basis and can last between two and eight years. Like their standard PhD counterparts, they usually begin in October or January.

While you won't typically be looking to get an academic job , your research is expected to contribute to theory as well as professional practice. Projects often revolve around a real-life issue that affects your employer.

Several professional Doctorates, such as the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), are accredited by a professional body - for instance, the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and The British Psychological Society (BPS) - and may also lead to a professional qualification .

Common titles for graduates of professional Doctorate degrees include:

• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Engineering (EngD)
• Doctor of Medicine (MD).

Unlike many professional Doctorates, the EngD is typically offered as a full-time course and is aimed at young engineering graduates with little or no professional experience.

Explore what's currently available at Find a Professional Doctorate .

Integrated PhD

This four-year qualification, also known as the New Route PhD, involves studying a one-year research Masters degree (MRes) before progressing onto a three-year PhD.

Offered by a select number of universities across the UK, integrated PhDs are supported by the government and the British Council through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . Visit Research Council funding for further information on research and funding for different types of PhD.

The integrated PhD involves a combination of taught materials, practical experience and advanced research. This allows you to learn subject-specific methodologies, while building the transferable skills that will enable you to become a leader in your chosen profession.

Institutions can also develop personalised integrated PhD programmes to meet each student's needs. For example, universities may offer you the opportunity to gain a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education - perfect if you're considering a career as a higher education lecturer .

As PhDs are based primarily on independent research rather than time spent in lectures and seminars, distance learning has always been a viable route for many Doctoral students.

PhDs by distance learning offered by course providers such as The Open University are therefore a good option to consider if you've got family or work commitments or are an international student - as this gives you the chance to undertake Doctoral research without having to live close to your chosen institution. It's also a suitable mode of study if your subject requires you to be based in a specific location away from the university.

For the most part, you'll be in touch with your supervisor by phone, email or Skype/Zoom. You'll need to bear in mind that even if you opt for this form of research, you'll generally still need to attend university for one or two weeks of each academic year for meetings and to receive research skills training. Your final examination may be undertaken either face-to-face or virtually.

With online PhDs, you can usually register as a full or part-time student. The level of fees you pay varies between institutions - some charge the same as for a standard PhD while others offer a reduced rate.

Check that any funding you plan to apply for is available to distance learning students, as this isn't always the case.

Search for distance learning PhDs .

Find out more

• Explore what is a PhD?
• Sort out funding for postgraduate study .
• Consider what to do after completing your PhD .

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