Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

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Updated April 10, 2023

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The best online doctoral programs give you the flexibility and training you need to qualify for highly specialized, in-demand jobs.

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

An online doctoral program is an affordable and flexible way to earn the highest education credential available.

A doctorate can qualify you for senior-level positions in many fields, including leadership roles at various businesses and organizations. The degree can also prepare you to teach at the college level and perform academic research.

We determined our rankings of the best online doctoral programs using metrics like affordability and academic quality. We aggregated data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System to provide objective, fact-based rankings, so you know which online Ph.D. programs are worth applying to.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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Top Online Ph.D. Programs and Doctorates

Read About Our Methodology Here

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

A T Still University of Health Sciences

  • Kirksville, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $587-$1,000

Credits to Graduate: 62-69

ATSU has eight online doctoral programs in fields like nursing practice, health sciences, and athletic training. These programs engage you in evidence-based medicine in a flexible format that accommodates working professionals.

Many of ATSU's doctoral programs offer specialized focus areas or certificates to add to your degree. Admission requirements vary by program but typically include an accredited master's degree and a minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA. Nursing programs require valid licensure as well.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,336
Out-of-state
$36,336
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,995
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Andrews University

  • Berrien Springs, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,471

Credits to Graduate: 40-90

At Andrews, you can earn one of several doctorates online, including a Ph.D. in business administration, an educational specialist degree, and a doctor of nursing practice. Several programs prepare graduates to advance their clinical careers, including doctoral programs in occupational therapy and advanced practice.

Professional certifications may be available, such as those for the physical therapy doctorate. While admission requirements vary, they usually include a master's degree with a minimum 3.25-3.50 GPA. Nursing and teacher pathway programs also require state licensure or certification.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,808
Out-of-state
$29,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,936
Out-of-state
$27,936
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
3,162
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Barry University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,160

Credits to Graduate: 30-68

Barry students have over 10 online doctoral programs and specializations to choose from, including occupational therapy, nursing, and nursing practice. The school offers part-time and full-time program options. Most programs combine theoretical foundations with practical components, such as a capstone project and a 16-week practicum. 

The online courses typically run synchronously and asynchronously over eight-week sessions. Admission requirements vary depending on the program but usually include a minimum 3.2.-3.5 GPA. Many health doctoral programs also require valid licensure.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,600
Out-of-state
$30,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,820
Out-of-state
$17,820
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
7,515
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Capitol Technology University

  • Laurel, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $933

Credits to Graduate: 60

Capitol offers more than 35 online programs, including doctorates in artificial intelligence, construction science, and human factors. Most programs have a dissertation requirement, and some have an additional publication option. To qualify for the latter path, you must have published at least three pieces in peer-reviewed journals.

While most online programs run entirely online with asynchronous classes, some business and cybersecurity doctorates include on-campus residency requirements. To apply, you need a master's degree and a minimum of five years of professional experience.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,830
Out-of-state
$25,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,390
Out-of-state
$11,390
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
754
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Clemson University

  • Clemson, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $770

Credits to Graduate: 56-65

At Clemson, you can earn an online doctorate in fields such as healthcare genetics, special education, and teaching. Most online programs feature synchronous online course delivery, though on-campus participation is available.

Admission requirements vary depending on the program but often include a master's degree and a minimum 3.0-3.5 GPA. Some programs even offer bachelor's-to-doctorate pathways. Teaching programs typically call for a valid teaching license and three years of experience.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,118
Out-of-state
$37,110
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,600
Out-of-state
$22,050
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
26,406
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Gardner-Webb University

  • Boiling Springs, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $580-$927

Credits to Graduate: 60-63

The five online doctorates from Gardner-Webb include business administration, organizational leadership, and curriculum and instruction. These programs run primarily online, though you may have to complete some on-campus residency requirements.

While admission requirements vary, they often include a master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Some programs require a valid teaching license and recommend you to have at least three years of experience. MAT or GRE scores may also be required.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,220
Out-of-state
$31,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
3,536
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

George Washington University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,030-$2,135

Credits to Graduate: 36-45

GWU offers 11 online doctoral programs in areas like cybersecurity analytics, executive leadership, and nursing practice. Many online programs at GWU combine asynchronous and synchronous delivery methods. Several programs also feature clinical or practical components, such as practice hours for all doctoral nursing students.

Admission requirements can vary, but most programs ask for a master's degree with a minimum 3.3 GPA. Programs like nursing and occupational therapy require a valid license as well.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,961
Out-of-state
$55,961
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$31,770
Out-of-state
$31,770
Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
43%
Students Enrolled
27,017
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Johns Hopkins University

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Year: $51,669-$66,950

Credits to Graduate: 40-90

Johns Hopkins offers over 10 online doctoral degrees, such as a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering and an education doctorate. Some programs offer concentration options as well. Curricula vary, with some programs incorporating practicums, a dissertation, and one or more examinations.

While most classes run entirely online, you may need to complete intensive on-campus immersions. For admission, you typically need a master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, a valid professional license, and GRE scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,160
Out-of-state
$54,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,010
Out-of-state
$57,010
Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
28,890
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $29,360

Credits to Graduate: 30-60

Keiser gives you 10 online doctorates to pick from, including in nursing practice, health science, and business administration. Classes primarily run online and conveniently around typical work schedules. Most programs also feature practical components, such as the practice hour requirements for nursing doctoral students.

Admission requirements vary depending on the program. Usually, you must have at least a master's degree, with some programs requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,162
Out-of-state
$27,162
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
20,330
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $395-$1,200

Credits to Graduate: 54-72

Students at Liberty can choose from among over 40 online doctorates, in addition to many concentrations and tracks. You can earn an online doctorate in history, educational leadership, nursing education, or business administration. Online programs run either entirely online or with required or optional weekend on-campus intensives.

Along with online courses, you may need to complete practicums, internships, and/or capstone projects. You will generally need a master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. Programs like nursing also require valid licensure and professional experience.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Maryville University of Saint Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $922

Credits to Graduate: 30-71

Featured Online Doctorates: DNP in pediatric nurse practitioner, DNP in family nurse practitioner, Ed.D. in higher education leadership

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,766
Out-of-state
$24,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,346
Out-of-state
$14,346
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
10,979
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Mississippi State University

  • Mississippi State, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $514

Credits to Graduate: 48-68

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in computational engineering, Ph.D. in industrial and systems engineering, Ph.D. in computer science

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,800
Out-of-state
$23,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,800
Out-of-state
$23,840
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
22,986
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health

  • Omaha, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $817

Credits to Graduate: 50-75

Featured Online Doctorates: Ed.D. in public health policy, BSN-to-DNP, Ed.D. in education and leadership

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,089
Out-of-state
$15,089
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,038
Out-of-state
$12,038
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
1,212
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Northcentral University

  • La Jolla, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Avg. Cost per Credit: $442

Credits to Graduate: 33-60

Featured Online Doctorates: Doctor of public administration, doctor of business administration, Ph.D. in data science

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,064
Out-of-state
$11,064
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,983
Out-of-state
$16,983
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
12,471
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Nova Southeastern University

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $692-$936

Credits to Graduate: 36-66

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in computer science, DNP, Ph.D. in health science

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,370
Out-of-state
$32,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,618
Out-of-state
$20,618
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
20,888
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Old Dominion University

  • Norfolk, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $571

Out of State | $595

Credits to Graduate: 36-54

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in community college leadership, DNP, Ph.D. in English

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,029
Out-of-state
$26,664
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,207
Out-of-state
$29,851
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
24,286
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Oregon State University

  • Corvallis, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $560-619

Credits to Graduate: 108+

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in business administration, Ph.D. in counseling, Ph.D. in computer science

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,846
Out-of-state
$29,445
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,257
Out-of-state
$26,109
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
32,312
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Samford University

  • Birmingham, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $509-$1,620

Credits to Graduate: 37-46

Featured Online Doctorates: DNP in nursing administration, doctor of public health, Ed.D. in educational leadership

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,248
Out-of-state
$33,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,587
Out-of-state
$20,587
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
5,729
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
37% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Saybrook University

  • Pasadena, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,009-$1,514

Credits to Graduate: 60-66

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in integrative social work, Ph.D. in psychology, Ph.D. in organizational systems

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,856
Out-of-state
$20,856
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
785
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Texas Tech University

  • Lubbock, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Minimum Cost per Year: $9,518

Credits to Graduate: 60-90

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction, Ph.D. in higher education administration, Ph.D. in special education

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,683
Out-of-state
$20,953
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,788
Out-of-state
$14,968
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
40,322
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,622

Credits to Graduate: N/A

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in business psychology, Ph.D. in behavioral analysis, Ph.D. in organizational leadership

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,160
Out-of-state
$11,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,212
Out-of-state
$22,212
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
3,131
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

The University of Alabama

  • Tuscaloosa, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $400-$440

Credits to Graduate: 40-72

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in electrical engineering, Ed.D. in educational leadership, DNP

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
37,840
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

  • Knoxville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $700-$815

Out of State | $775-$890

Credits to Graduate: 48-85

Featured Online Doctorates: Ed.D. in educational leadership, Ph.D. in industrial engineering, Ph.D. in nursing

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,332
Out-of-state
$28,522
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,468
Out-of-state
$29,656
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
30,559
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

University of Arkansas

  • Fayetteville, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $438-$583

Out of State | $1,190

Credits to Graduate: 66-96

Featured Online Doctorates: Ed.D. in educational leadership, Ed.D. in adult and lifelong learning, DNP

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,568
Out-of-state
$24,056
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,752
Out-of-state
$21,032
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
27,562
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Year:

In State | $12,744

Out of State | $30,138

Credits to Graduate: 60-90

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in classical civilization, Ed.D. in educational technology, DNP

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,477
Out-of-state
$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,770
Out-of-state
$27,335
Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
53,372
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

University of Nebraska Medical Center

  • Omaha, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $597-$625

Credits to Graduate: 54-62

Featured Online Doctorates: Ph.D. in epidemiology, Ph.D. in nursing, DNP

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,340
Out-of-state
$30,510
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,207
Out-of-state
$26,379
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,699
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

University of South Carolina-Columbia

  • Columbia, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In State | $515-$572

Out of State | $572-$1,240

Credits to Graduate: 33-74

Featured Online Doctorates: DNP, Ph.D. in civil engineering, Ed.D. in curriculum studies

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,288
Out-of-state
$33,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,737
Out-of-state
$29,760
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
35,470
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

University of South Dakota

  • Vermillion, SD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: $470

Credits to Graduate: 33-93

Featured Online Doctorates: DNP, Ed.D. in curriculum director, Ph.D. in counseling and psychology in education

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,697
Out-of-state
$11,172
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,062
Out-of-state
$11,656
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
9,459
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

University of the Cumberlands

  • Williamsburg, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online

Avg. Cost per Credit: $315-$700

Credits to Graduate: 30-66

Featured Online Doctorates: Doctor of business administration, Ph.D. in business, Ph.D. in information technology

School Website

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
19,110
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Reasons to Apply to Online Ph.D. Programs


Why Accreditation Matters for Online Doctoral Programs

Accreditation ensures that an institution meets a certain learning standard and awards recognized credentials. Attending an accredited school also means you can apply for federal student aid.

In certain fields, individual programs may receive programmatic accreditation. Licensure for professions like nursing and law usually requires completing an accredited program.

Make sure all schools you're applying to are accredited by a recognized agency.


Price Check

The average tuition and fees for graduate programs in the U.S. have risen a whopping 378% between 1989 and 2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).


How Much Do Online Ph.D. Programs Cost?

According to NCES data, the average annual tuition and fees for graduate programs were $19,749 in 2020-2021.

Private nonprofit institutions had an annual average cost of $28,445, while public universities had a lower annual average cost of $12,394.

Other factors that can affect how much your online Ph.D. or doctorate will cost include textbooks and supplies, distance learning fees, and whether you're attending an in-state or out-of-state institution.

You can offset some of these costs by submitting the FAFSA and applying for scholarships and fellowships.


Jobs You Can Get With an Online Doctorate

Doctorates and equivalent professional degrees can qualify you for a number of high-paying, in-demand jobs, like physician and lawyer.

Many jobs requiring a doctorate or professional degree boast high median salaries in the six figures — well above the median annual salary for all jobs. Some, like medical scientists and veterinarians, are also experiencing above-average growth over the next decade.

Popular Jobs That Typically Require a Doctorate
Job Median Annual Salary (May 2021) Job Growth Rate (2021-2031)
Physicians and Surgeons >$208,000 3%
Dentists $163,220 6%
Physicists and Astronomers $147,450 8%
Pharmacists $128,570 2%
Lawyers $127,990 10%
Veterinarians $100,370 19%
Postsecondary Education Administrators $96,910 7%
Medical Scientists $95,310 17%
Psychologists $81,040 6%
Postsecondary Teachers $79,640 12%
Historians $63,940 4%
Anthropologists and Archaeologists $61,910 6%

Source: BLS


How to Choose an Online Doctoral Program: 4 Tips

Want to figure out which online doctoral program is right for you? Heed these four essential tips.

  1. 1

    Understand Your Goals

    Students considering online doctoral programs should understand their professional goals and know what jobs they'll qualify for after graduation.

    Not all careers require a doctorate; however, a doctorate can benefit you greatly in terms of salary potential and leadership opportunities, especially in fields like healthcare and education.

    Ask yourself: Do you need a Ph.D. for your chosen field? If not, how will a doctorate help you?

  2. 2

    Research Accredited Online Programs

    There are many online Ph.D. programs to choose from, but not all are created equal.

    Make sure the schools you're considering for your online doctorate are accredited by a recognized agency, ideally a regional accreditor. If you're applying for a doctorate in a professional field like nursing, medicine, business, law, psychology, or education, you should also look for programmatic accreditation.

    As you research online doctoral programs, consider how you wish to learn. Do you want a hybrid or 100% online format? Does the program require any in-person components? Decide what works best for your goals and schedule.

  3. 3

    Consider Your Budget and Financial Aid Options

    Before you apply to online Ph.D. programs, take time to understand your budget and the cost of each program you're considering. Some programs will cost far more or less than others. Some doctoral programs may even be fully funded, making them highly competitive.

    Submitting the FAFSA can help you qualify for federal financial aid, such as grants, scholarships, and low-interest loans. You should also research institutional grants, external scholarships and fellowships, and private loans.

  4. 4

    Reach Out to Faculty, Students, and Alumni

    Consider reaching out to faculty members, current students, and recent alums of the graduate program you're interested in. This way, you can better tailor your application and have a clearer idea of what to expect during and after the program.


Frequently Asked Questions About Online Doctoral Programs

Can you do a Ph.D. fully online?

Yes, you can complete some Ph.D. programs fully online. Other doctoral programs, especially those in healthcare, education, and service fields, may have in-person requirements in the form of practicums and internships.

For instance, professional fields like nursing and pharmacy may require an in-person internship or residency hours before you can earn your doctorate.

Are online doctoral programs legitimate?

Just like in-person Ph.D. programs, online doctoral programs can be legitimate — so long as they're accredited. An online program with the same accreditation as an in-person program will have completed the same vetting process and meets the same quality standards.

You can check a school's accreditation status by using the directories on the Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation websites.

Can you get a Ph.D. without a master's?

In some fields, it is possible to get a Ph.D. without earning a master's. Some programs require or prefer applicants with a master's degree, often in a related field.

Other Ph.D. programs, however, may allow you to enroll directly in the program with just a bachelor's. Usually, this means you'll earn a master's degree along the way toward earning your Ph.D.

Be sure to check the admission requirements for any Ph.D. programs you're considering.

How long does an online Ph.D. take?

The time it takes to complete an online Ph.D. varies depending on the field and program, whether you attend part or full time, and whether you opt for an accelerated program. A typical online Ph.D. program takes at least three years to complete, though it may take as many as 5-7 years.

What is the fastest Ph.D. to get online?

The shortest online Ph.D. programs take around one year to complete. These accelerated programs may follow quarter-based or trimester-based schedules. They may also require you to take classes year-round instead of just during the spring and fall semesters.


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