Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Updated March 20, 2023

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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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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Top Online Ph.D. Programs and Doctorates

Read About Our Methodology Here

#1 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

  • Little Rock, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Tuition
In-state
$6,495
Out-of-state
$18,750
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
9,581
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Franklin University

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Tuition
In-state
$9,552
Out-of-state
$9,552
Retention Rate
47%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,031
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Brenau University

  • Gainesville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Tuition
In-state
$29,370
Out-of-state
$29,370
Retention Rate
52%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
2,817
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Tuition
In-state
$8,580
Out-of-state
$29,589
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
29,537
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

University of New England

  • Biddeford, ME
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Tuition
In-state
$37,390
Out-of-state
$37,390
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
7,483
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Touro University Nevada

  • Henderson, NV
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$9,900
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,530
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#8 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Seton Hall University

  • South Orange, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Tuition
In-state
$41,460
Out-of-state
$41,460
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
10,219
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

Southeastern Louisiana University

  • Hammond, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,777
Out-of-state
$18,255
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
14,220
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Doctoral Programs of 2023

North Carolina State University

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
36,304
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

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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