The Best Online Ph.D. and Doctoral Programs of 2020

USD's online Ph.D. program trains the next generation of health and education leaders. Health options include health sciences and a post-professional doctorate in occupational therapy. Additionally, USD's School of Education boasts an education specialist in educational administration degree with specializations in school district superintendent and preK-12 principal. Students enrolled in an online doctoral program benefit from many virtual student services, including a writing center and library databases. Additionally, the Academic and Career Planning Center (ACPC) provides degree-seekers with career planning guides and multiple on-campus job fairs throughout the year. Learners approaching graduation should review the ACPC's expert advice on how to ace an interview and follow up with a potential employer. Each program uses different application requirements. USD does not charge an out-of-state tuition rate for online doctoral programs, and some degree-seekers may qualify for a Perkins Loan. University of South Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

TTU's online Ph.D. programs include five hybrid programs and six entirely online options. Hybrid programs -- those that require some coursework on the university's Lubbock campus -- include systems engineering and technical communication. The fully online programs emphasize educational leadership as well as curriculum and instruction. TTU alumni who earned a doctoral degree report a median $65,000 per year starting salary. The University Career Center provides ample resources that help students attain a high-paying job. Learners can take advantage of salary negotiation guidance, resume and cover letter critiques, and mock interviews. Prospective students should contact a Graduate Student Services coordinator to determine which application materials they must submit. Education programs require a master's degree in education or a related subject. Finally, learners who enter a hybrid program can apply for a doctoral fellowship wherein degree-seekers receive a tuition reduction for working as a teaching assistant. Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Clemson's online doctoral programs feature three degree options. Learners can pursue a degree in healthcare genetics; parks, recreation, and tourism management; or rhetorics, communication, and information design. Within the healthcare genetics curriculum, students select a concentration. Additionally, the parks, recreation, and tourism management program features a hybrid curriculum wherein degree-seekers spend five days per year performing work on Clemson's South Carolina campus. Online degree-seekers' academic success starts with Clemson's in-depth teaching and learning tools, including videos and guides that cover cloud storage, Canvas, and web conferencing fundamentals. Additionally, the Center for Career and Professional Development boasts a career blog, online workshops, and specialized resources for new students, including a free career development course. Depending on the program, application requirements may include a GPA cutoff, GRE scores, and 2-3 recommendation letters. Although Clemson's online doctoral degrees do not charge out-of-state tuition, each online doctorate maintains a different per-credit tuition rate. Finally, the university's multiple fellowship opportunities help graduate students avoid debt. Clemson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Education and medical professionals can select from UF's two online Ph.D.s, one doctor of pharmacy, one DNP, and four doctor of education (Ed.D.) degrees. Unique programs include Latin and Roman studies and classical civilization. Other degrees train experienced educators in the latest leadership best practices. Additionally, degrees within the Colleges of Education and Liberal Arts require independent research that leads to a dissertation. A plurality of students who earn a doctorate at UF enter the research field. More than 20% start a postdoctoral program to gain professional experience. Degree-seekers can use the Career Connections Center's one-on-one counseling appointments, resume reviews, and blog posts to hone essential skills. Admission requirements vary by program. However, prospective students should possess a bachelor's or master's degree preferably in the same subject as the doctoral degree. A program may use a GPA cutoff and have prerequisite requirements, as well. In-state degree-seekers save more than 40% on tuition compared to out-of-state learners. Finally, full-time students do not receive a tuition discount at the graduate level. University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Endicott boasts online Ph.D. programs in nursing and applied behavior analysis. The school also offers online Ed.D. programs in educational leadership in higher education and educational leadership in pre-K-12. These programs use a cohort learning model wherein no more than 20 learners take courses together. Endicott's Internship and Career Center offers a host of resources for online doctoral students, including Handshake software, the Gull2Gull Mentoring program, and a college job board. Degree-seekers can also review alumni networking tips and plan for upcoming career fairs. Admission requirements to either the educational leadership program or the applied behavior analysis program include three recommendation letters and a 5-8-page academic writing sample. Nursing applicants must possess a master's degree and a valid nursing license. Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs use a different per-credit tuition rate. Finally, degree-seekers who need financial aid should submit FAFSA results and the college's scholarship application. Endicott College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

Clarkson College's online doctoral programs include healthcare education leadership and nursing practice. The healthcare education program emphasizes coursework in healthcare policy and law, interprofessional education, and outcomes of healthcare in a global society. Students earning a nursing practice degree analyze biostatistics and complete three scholarly projects as part of a 300-hour practicum experience. As many doctoral students work while earning a degree, they can plan for career advancement by consulting Career Services' job board. The college also provides other vital career resources, including a resume writing guide, an interviewing skills primer, and videos that discuss workplace professionalism. Applicants to either program should possess a bachelor's degree that reflects a minimum 3.0 GPA. Other application requirements vary. Both programs charge the same per-credit tuition rate. Clarkson does not award merit-based financial aid to online graduate degree-seekers. Clarkson College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Liberty boasts multiple online Ph.D.s, including doctoral degrees in ministry, education, and strategic leadership. In the ministry degree, students can select from 13 specializations. Other degrees offer specialization options, as well. Many doctoral programs possess accreditation from top programmatic accreditation agencies. Nearly 75% of online learners find a job wherein they can use the knowledge and skills they obtained at Liberty. Students can start preparing for the workforce long before graduation day by using Career Services' (CS) Handshake software, interview preparation guides, and career fairs. CS professionals can also help doctoral students develop an academic portfolio, which is vital for learners planning to work in academia. Prospective doctoral students can apply for one of eight annual start dates. Although admission requirements vary, all prospective students should possess a master's degree. All Liberty online students benefit from the university's tuition freeze. Finally, degree-seekers can sign up for a 1-5-month tuition payment plan. Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

NSU's online Ph.D. programs include computer science, conflict analysis, and criminal justice. The latter two options feature multiple concentration options. The university also boasts other online doctorates in the medical field, such as occupational therapy. Additionally, NSU features one hybrid program in physical therapy that requires some coursework on the university's Ft. Lauderdale or Clearwater campus. On the Career Development website, degree-seekers can explore NSU's professional development courses. These workshops introduce learners to interviewing and networking best practices. Other resources include drop-in advising for learners who live near an NSU campus. These and other services help more than 70% of doctoral students find a job that aligns with their education. Each degree uses varied application requirements. Most programs require a master's degree, and some programs interview top applicants on campus. Each degree charges a different per-credit tuition rate. Finally, NSU boasts numerous scholarship opportunities for online doctoral degree-seekers. Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

WilmU offers online doctoral programs in business education, education, social science in prevention science, and nursing practice. Nursing students can concentrate in either advanced practice or leadership. All programs use a cohort learning model. New cohorts start 1-3 times per year, depending on the degree. Most degree-seekers can graduate in just three years. In addition to providing students with Handshake software, WilmU's Career Services (CS) professionals curate vital resources for degree-seekers, including professional organizations and career assessments. Students and alumni can also sign up for a virtual appointment, and learn about the latest on-campus events by checking the CS calendar. Besides the nursing program, doctoral programs ask for three recommendation letters. Other typical application materials include an essay and resume. All students who reside in the U.S. pay the same tuition rate, while international learners spend approximately 10% more per credit. Finally, like many schools in this ranking, WilmU offers graduate degree-seekers an optional tuition payment plan. Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Education and public health professionals should consider ECU's online doctoral programs. The Ed.D. in educational leadership features concentrations in higher education administration and pre-K-12. This degree also uses a cohort learning model. Students can graduate in three years. Additionally, public health degree-seekers can concentrate in either environmental and occupational health or health policy, administration, and leadership. Online doctoral students should consult the Career Resource Guide to learn about Career Services' virtual workshops and job hunting tips. Specialized resources for alumni include ECU Connect -- an online networking platform -- and Interview Stream software. ECU accepts new doctoral students at 2-5 points throughout the year, depending on the program. For prospective education degree-seekers, application materials include a master's degree and three recommendation letters. Additional requirements for public health applicants include GRE or MCAT scores. Finally, in-state learners save approximately 70% on tuition compared to out-of-state students. East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

UND's unique online Ph.D. programs include electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, and aerospace sciences. Programs last 2-7 years and require 36-124 credits. Additionally, many programs boast a hybrid learning option wherein students who live near the university's Grand Forks campus take some courses in a classroom setting. At Career Services, graduate degree-seekers can start a job hunt by signing up for Interview Stream and Focus2Career. These industry-leading tools help students prepare for interviews and explore career opportunities. Other resources include guides on how to write a resume and develop a personal statement. Admission requirements for all programs include a bachelor's degree, three recommendation letters, and standardized test scores. Also, each program does not use the same application deadline. All students pay the same per-credit tuition rate at this public university. Finally, incoming degree-seekers can research and apply for institutional scholarships on the UND Scholarship Opportunities website. University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

ULM's two online doctoral programs include curriculum and instruction and marriage and family therapy. The curriculum and instruction program uses an accelerated format with eight-week terms. Courses include decision making for school improvement. The marriage and family therapy program lasts three years, and degree-seekers write a dissertation in the final year. The Career Center (CC) boasts multiple employer partners who hire ULM alumni. Unique CC resources include Career Academies, a free program that allows students with similar career goals to network and prepare for life after graduation. Additionally, active-duty service members and veterans can access specialized how-to videos and job boards. Both doctoral programs require GRE scores. Prospective curriculum and instruction degree-seekers should possess a minimum 3.25 graduate GPA. Additionally, marriage and family therapy applicants submit three recommendation letters and a scholarly writing sample. Finally, ULM does not charge an out-of-state tuition rate. Doctoral students can apply for federal grants and loans. University of Louisiana Monroe is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

UWG's online doctoral programs boast three degrees for future education leaders. Students can pursue degrees in higher education administration, professional counseling and supervision, or school improvement. These programs feature a fully online curriculum. However, students complete a two-day on-campus orientation before enrolling in courses. The final doctoral program, nursing education, trains practicing nurses for a leadership position in a healthcare setting. In addition to traditional resources for students and alumni, the UWG Career Services offers in-depth guides that cover how to create an effective social media presence and network online. Degree-seekers can also access the Vault Online Library, an extensive collection of articles that take the guesswork out of job hunting. Application requirements for education programs include a minimum 3.5 graduate GPA, GRE scores, and professional experience. Prospective nursing education students should possess a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA and a valid nursing license. Finally, all degree-seekers pay the same low per-credit tuition rate. University of West Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

USM offers a single online Ph.D. program in nursing leadership. The school also offers an Ed.D. and education specialist program in education. Aspiring education leaders can also earn an Ed.D. in higher education. Each program boasts a 100% online curriculum. Most full-time degree-seekers can graduate in 2-3 years, depending on the degree. Online Career Services resources include the university Career Guide, Handshake software, and College Diversity Network, a job-hunting resource for degree-seekers part of a minority group. Learners who live near USM's Hattiesburg campus can attend the annual Career and Internship Expo, as well. Prospective education students submit three recommendation letters, a resume, and GRE scores. Unique requirements for nursing applicants include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate or graduate GPA, a valid nursing license, and a phone interview. Out-of-state learners do not pay a higher tuition rate. Degree-seekers who need financial aid may qualify for federal grants and loans. The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

VSU features three entirely online doctoral programs. Learners can pursue degrees in curriculum and instruction: learning and development; leadership; and public administration. The curriculum and instruction Ed.D. boasts three optional certificates, including healthcare administration and online teaching. Typical full-time students can earn a degree in just three years. VSU's Blazer Ready program prepares degree-seekers for a future career by offering five courses that cover workplace professionalism, goal setting, and resume development. Other resources that help students make the most of a Ph.D. online program include highly trained career counselors and career development handouts. Application requirements for all degrees include a master's degree and a minimum 3.5 graduate GPA. Other admission materials include GRE scores, a resume, and three recommendation letters. Although a public university, VSU charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all online doctoral students. The university awards multiple merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. However, only Georgia residents may apply for some types of financial aid. Valdosta State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

CU Denver offers one online Ph.D. in nursing and three other doctoral degrees in nursing practice, education, and pharmacy. These programs all boast concentration options, allowing degree-seekers to customize their educational experience. The school's nursing program features five academic tracks that cater to students from different educational and professional backgrounds. Online learners can work with an enrollment navigator to create an academic success plan and research potential careers. Also, students enrolled in the school's Ed.D. program receive free executive coaching resources for up to one year after graduation. Prospective students may need a bachelor's or master's degree, depending on which program they select. Other typical admission requirements include a statement of purpose, resume, three recommendation letters, and an academic portfolio. Tuition varies by course. Out-of-state students pay a higher per-credit tuition rate. Finally, new degree-seekers can search for institutional financial aid on CU Denver's scholarship portal. University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Maryville's online doctoral programs include an Ed.D. in education and a DNP. The DNP program features eight unique tracks, including pediatric NP. Education degree-seekers do not have concentration options and learn as part of a cohort. Additionally, no program has an on-campus component. Most degree-seekers graduate in three years or fewer. More than 90% of Maryville alumni report finding a job or entering another educational program soon after graduation. Career Success and Professional Development guides students' job search by posting the latest job opportunities throughout Missouri and offering mock interviews. Maryville does not require standardized test scores. All applicants use the same application regardless of program. An admission counselor then contacts the applicant to discuss additional application materials. Maryville charges all online graduate students the same tuition rate. Finally, financial aid options include federal grants and loans and employer assistance programs. Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

ISU's seven online doctoral programs appeal to experienced nurses and educators, including health sciences and technology management professionals. Future education leaders can select from two educational administration tracks: higher education leadership and school administration. Although many full-time students can earn a degree in just three years, some doctoral programs give degree-seekers up to eight years to graduate. ISU boasts a 95% graduate placement rate, which indicates the percentage of alumni who either found a job or entered another academic program. The university achieves this impressive result by providing online students and alumni with virtual counseling sessions that cover job search guidance, resume and cover letter development, and networking skills. Admission requirements vary by program but may include professional experience, a minimum 3.0 undergraduate or graduate GPA, and recommendation letters. Fortunately for out-of-state degree-seekers, all online students pay the same per-credit tuition rate. Finally, ISU boasts multiple institutional financial aid opportunities for graduate learners. Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

UNF's online doctoral programs include a DNP with two tracks, including a post-MSN and psych-mental health. The latter uses a hybrid learning model. Both offer an accelerated track wherein students can earn a degree in just two years. The university's third doctoral program, clinical nutrition, maintains an on-campus residency requirement and emphasizes applying the latest clinical research in a community or clinical setting. UNF doctoral students benefit from the Career Success Center's career counselors and coaches. Counselors help degree-seekers create a career path, while coaches instill interviewing and resume writing skills. Additionally, learners can access resume and cover letter guides at any time. Applicants to the clinical nutrition program should submit GRE scores and three recommendation letters. Other requirements include five years' work experience. Both nursing programs use a graduate GPA cutoff. Although the per-credit tuition rate varies for each online doctoral program, UNF does not charge an out-of-state tuition rate. Finally, the university boasts four scholarships exclusive to graduate degree-seekers. University of North Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Regent's online Ph.D. programs include education - educational technology and online learning; counseling and psychology studies; and renewal theology. The university also boasts other doctoral programs, such as Ed.S. degrees in educational specialist and leadership in mathematics. Although most students can earn a doctorate entirely online, some programs require one or more residencies on Regent's Virginia Beach campus. Regent reports that nearly 80% of graduates find a job or enter another academic program within 12 months of earning a degree. Professionals at the Office of Career and Talent Management help doctoral students find jobs by offering resume reviews, interviewing guides, and Handshake software. Application requirements vary by program and may include a master's degree, a graduate GPA cutoff, and an interview. Each program also charges a different per-credit tuition rate. All students in the same program pay an identical rate regardless of residency. Finally, some programs award merit-based scholarships. Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).