Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

A public institution, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock enrolls students from its main campus. The school offers an online doctorate in computer and information sciences. Some doctoral programs require applicants to hold a master’s degree in their field, while others may accept bachelor’s degree-holders.

The online learning format makes it easier for doctoral students to earn a degree while working. Doctoral students take courses in a virtual learning environment and meet with faculty advisors online.

As the terminal degree in data science, a doctorate represents the highest level of education in the field. Earning a doctorate in data science generally takes 3-5 years, depending on the student's enrollment option. With a doctorate, graduates can work in academia, research, and data science practice.

University of Arkansas at Little Rock Fast Facts:

In-state Graduate Tuition: $5,760

Out-of-state Graduate Tuition: $13,050

Admission Rate: 66%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

A private institution, Franklin University enrolls students from its main campus in Columbus, Ohio. The online doctor of business administration prepares doctoral students for advanced roles in their field. The admission requirements for the doctoral program typically include a master's degree in business management.

While a doctorate requires intensive study, the online format helps students balance their degree with other responsibilities. After completing the online business management program, doctoral students can visit campus to graduate in person.

As the highest level of education, a doctorate prepares graduates for advanced roles in their field. Most doctoral programs require 4-6 years of study, though the length varies depending on the program and the student's enrollment option. Graduates pursue careers in academia, research, or business management practice.

Franklin University Facts:

Total Online Doctoral Programs: 3

Graduate Tuition: $16,080

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

From its campus in Gainesville, Georgia, Brenau University enrolls degree-seekers as a private institution. Degree-seekers in the doctorate in elementary education program complete advanced coursework in their field. Prospective applicants can learn more about admission prerequisites and program requirements by contacting the school.

An online doctorate can help students pursue an advanced degree while maintaining a full-time job. Students considering the elementary education program can reach out to a faculty advisor to learn about any in-person requirements.

As the terminal degree in K-12 education, a doctorate builds advanced knowledge and skills. Most doctoral students complete their degree within five years. With a doctorate, graduates pursue opportunities in academia, research, and K-12 education practice.

Brenau University Fast Facts:

Total Online Doctoral Programs: 3

Graduate Tuition: $12,834

Average Cost per Credit: $816

Admission Rate: 58%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis operates as a public institution. The Ph.D. in music therapy trains graduates for advanced careers through a flexible learning format. Prospective applicants can learn more about admission prerequisites and program requirements by contacting the department.

The program's flexible learning format helps graduate students complete their doctoral degree. Students may need to visit campus occasionally for in-person activities, such as labs or simulations.

As the highest level of education, a doctorate prepares graduates for advanced roles in their field. Depending on their enrollment status, doctoral students generally earn their degree in 3-5 years. With a doctorate, graduates pursue opportunities in academia, research, and occupational therapy practice.

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Facts:

Total Online Doctoral Programs: 3

In-state Graduate Tuition: $8,826

Out-of-state Graduate Tuition: $24,144

Admission Rate: 81%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Liberty University delivers 229 academic programs, including online options. The DBA program provides students with a reasonably priced education. Leaders in business management earn a doctoral degree as a way of gaining advanced skills and knowledge.

Students typically complete their doctoral program in 4-7 years. During that time, degree-seekers complete advanced coursework, pass comprehensive examinations, and conduct research for their doctoral dissertation.

Liberty University Facts:

Average Tuition Per Credit: $750

Percentage of Learners Receiving Aid: 99%

Percentage of Students Receiving Loans: 57%

Applicants Admitted: 51%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: Yes

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

Students in the education field can explore the University of New England's doctor of education curriculum. The online format offers an affordable route to a doctoral degree.

Internship and service-learning activities give students valuable hands-on experience. Students can explore the school’s website to learn how to earn credit for internships and graduate-level hands-on learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can attend networking events to connect with peers and professionals in their field.

University of New England at a Glance:

Online Master's Programs: 7

Total Doctoral Programs: 1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $23,498 in-state; $23,498 out-of-state

University of New England has been accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

Touro University Nevada delivers 14 online and on-campus programs. The reasonably priced doctor of education gives students a high-quality education in the field. The flexible program lets working professionals earn their degree around their other commitments.

Students may receive credit for hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships. The institution's website provides details about how to earn credit for graduate-level experiential learning. Student organizations provide professional development opportunities to help learners prepare for their career.

Touro University Nevada Fast Facts:

Graduate Tuition Rate: $42,300 in-state; $42,300 out-of-state

Transfer Credits Allowed: No

The school holds regional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

The reasonably priced doctor of nursing practice gives students a high-quality education. Busy students take advantage of the flexible program to earn their degree while fulfilling their other responsibilities.

Students at the school enroll in affordable doctoral programs that meet high standards of quality. Learners interact through class discussions, and the program also uses video lectures and assignments.

Seton Hall University Statistics:

Undergraduate Graduation Rate: 73%

Learners Receiving Financial Aid: 100%

Students Awarded Student Loans: 51%

Per-Credit Price: $1,332

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Seton Hall University has been accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a regional accrediting body.

From its campus in Hammond, Southeastern Louisiana University welcomes students as a public institution. The school offers an online doctorate in nursing practice. The doctoral program builds on the student's prior nursing practice knowledge to strengthen advanced skills.

While a doctorate requires intensive study, the online format helps students balance their degree with other responsibilities. Doctoral students typically work with the program to complete any in-person requirements in their local area.

The terminal degree in nursing practice, a doctorate leads to high-level roles in the field. Students typically spend 3-6 years completing a doctorate. Professionals pursue academic, research, and nursing practice careers after completing the program.

Southeastern Louisiana University Facts:

In-state Graduate Tuition: $6,684

Out-of-state Graduate Tuition: $19,162

Admission Rate: 90%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Learners wanting to earn a doctor of design degree online can study at the North Carolina State University. With an online format, students can save money on their doctoral degree.

Doctoral programs typically take 4-7 years to complete. Doctor of design students earn their degree after completing all coursework, exams, and dissertation research.

North Carolina State University Fast Facts:

Graduate School Tuition Rate: $9,095 in-state; $26,421 out-of-state

Amount of Aid Awarded Per Learner: $8,938

Average Price With Financial Aid: $14,958

Graduation Rate: 82%

Transfer Credits Counted: No

The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, a regional accrediting body.