The Best Online PhD Programs 2022

Online Doctoral Degrees

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A Ph.D. is the most advanced degree in most fields. Graduates with a Ph.D. can work as researchers, professors, or clinical psychologists. Online Ph.D. programs take several years to finish. Coursework depends heavily on discipline and field of study. Learners complete a large amount of independent research.

Applicants to the most competitive online Ph.D. programs need a master's degree and a strong academic record. Students interested in pursuing an online Ph.D. must submit writing samples, GRE scores, and recommendation letters.

Read on for an overview of online Ph.D. programs, benefits, and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ph.D. Programs

Can I complete a Ph.D. program online?

Some Ph.D. programs allow enrollees to complete coursework online. However, students may need to fulfill on-campus residency requirements.

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

Some online Ph.D. programs only accept candidates with a master's degree from a regionally accredited school. However, many schools accept applications from high-performing bachelor's graduates.

How long is a Ph.D. program?

Ph.D. program length varies by discipline, school, and learners' prior graduate work. Master's degree-holders may finish in 3-5 years. Some candidates take longer.

Why Get a Ph.D. Degree?

An online Ph.D. meets or exceeds education requirements for many careers. Graduates with a Ph.D. can apply for jobs in education and scientific research. Earning an online Ph.D. can also improve professionals' earning potential. According to PayScale salary data from September 2021, Ph.D. graduates average $100,000 annually. Salary varies widely by discipline and career. Professors earn a median annual salary of $80,560.

Online Ph.D. programs provide greater flexibility and lower costs than on-campus programs. See below for more information about online Ph.D. tuition and expenses.

Earning a Ph.D. requires time, persistence, and money. However, earning a degree gives graduates many personal and professional benefits. For example, doctoral students can pursue their interests at a deep level. Doing so can bring intellectual satisfaction and confidence.

How to Choose a Doctoral Program

1. Discover Your Interests

Students considering a Ph.D. program should know what their intended field of study is and what career options are available after graduation. Once a student knows what field they are interested in, they can begin researching top programs in the area, or in the country if they are willing to relocate.

2. Research Program Options

There are a variety of program layouts available for doctoral students. Students should decide if they want an online, hybrid, or in-person program. Students interested in an online program should research asynchronous vs. synchronous course layouts to decide what works best for their schedule.

3. Consider Program Lengeth and Finacial Aid

Before applying to a doctoral program, students should understand the requirements and the average amount of time it takes to complete the degree. Students should also research financial aid options, including research grants and graduate assistantships.

4. Know Application Deadlines

Once a student has decided which doctoral programs to apply to, they should begin the application process immediately. Many doctoral programs only have one start date a year, so students should research when they can enroll and when applications are due.

5. Reach Out to the Falculty

Students should consider reaching out to faculty members at the school they're interested in either before or during the application process. Doing so can help students tailor their application and also have a better idea of what to expect during the program.

How Much Does a Ph.D. Cost?

Doctoral degrees can range in price, but on average they cost $114,300 according to EducationData. Another study, conducted by the National Center of Education Statistics, states that a student can expect to pay $18,947 per year on average. A student's cost can vary depending on in-state vs. out-of-state tuition and any scholarship or graduate assistantship funding. Costs can also vary by the type of degree, a Ph.D. can cost less than an M.D. or Ed.D., for example.

Stipends do not usually cover all living expenses. Even fully funded Ph.D. students sometimes borrow money. Student debt among Ph.D. graduates averages around $159,630. Online Ph.D. programs may cost less than on-campus programs. Some schools offer online learners in-state tuition rates. Many online students also save on transportation costs and campus fees.

However, online learners incur extra expenses. Read below to learn about these fees.

Is a Ph.D. a Good Investment?

Additional Online Student Fees

Online students need reliable computers, high-speed internet, and technical support. These come with additional expenses.

Students enrolled in online Ph.D. programs also need money for books, supplies, and graduation fees. Some careers require professional licenses or certifications. These credentials can carry hefty application fees. Online Ph.D. programs often require enrollees to meet with advisors on campus. Learners should budget for travel and housing expenses.

Available Online Ph.D. Degrees

Coursework in online Ph.D. programs varies by discipline. Many Ph.D. programs begin with 2-3 years of advanced coursework. Core coursework covers research methods and includes dissertation preparation courses. Learners also study their field's history and major theoretical frameworks.

Ph.D. programs cultivate advanced specialization through elective courses and independent study. Students culminate their program with a comprehensive exam. Learners also complete independent research for their dissertation.

See below for three common Ph.D. programs. Keep in mind that not every school offers these programs.

• Ph.D. in Psychology

  Aspiring researchers or professors usually pursue a Ph.D. in psychology. Students who want to work as psychologists often pursue a Psy.D. Psychology doctoral programs include core coursework in statistics, developmental psychology, and psychological measurement. Some schools offer electives in areas such as social psychology research and neuroscience.

• Ph.D. in English

  Students seeking careers as tenure-track, university English professors usually pursue a Ph.D. in English. Some graduates work as administrators, writers, or communication specialists. Core courses include an introduction to professional study, a critical theory course, and a doctoral dissertation research course.

• Ph.D. in Biology

  A Ph.D. in biology includes core coursework in research methods. Some programs require courses in grant writing or pedagogy. Enrollees complete specialized courses in ecology and neurobiology. Graduates may work as microbiologists, environmental scientists, or biology professors.

The Best Online Ph.D. Programs 2022