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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.
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Featured Online Graduate Programs
Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.
These rankings include
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.
from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
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
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
Doctorate-holders earned median weekly earnings of $1,909, compared to just $1,334 for those with only a bachelor's degree in 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Online Ph.D. programs offer more flexibility than on-campus programs, making balancing your studies with other obligations easier.
As of 2021, the unemployment rate for those with only a bachelor's degree (3.5%) was more than double the rate for those with a doctorate (1.5%).
In an online Ph.D. program, you can conduct specialized research and become an expert in a field you're passionate about.
Some online doctoral programs may be more affordable than in-person 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.
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.
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.
Want to figure out which online doctoral program is right for you? Heed these four essential tips.
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
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
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.
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.
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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