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The Top 10 Easiest PhDs: Tuition, Duration, and Financial Aid

If you’re wondering what the easiest doctorate degree is, this really depends on your definition of easy.

You may find a lengthy research dissertation challenging, or you may love writing and struggle with mathematical or analytical assignments. Equally, depending on your lifestyle, a flexible program that allows you to study online at your own pace could be much more manageable. Or it may be better to go all-in on an accelerated program that you can finish in a short space of time.

With all these factors and more in mind, you can learn about the easiest PhDs available today across various fields.

Table of Contents

The Easiest PhD Majors

Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and we all excel in different areas. Having said that, a significant proportion of people find math and science challenging, so many people will find the following majors the easiest PhDs to get:

• Religion/Theology

However, the easiest PhD for you could be quite different. If you have a head for numbers but don’t do so well with languages, you mind find a PhD in mathematics or engineering much easier.

Your interests also come into play: it’s always easier to apply yourself to a topic that you’re passionate about.

The Easiest PhD Programs

We’ve ranked the following programs based on various criteria to find the easiest doctoral degrees across a range of disciplines while mostly staying away from courses heavy in maths and science, as areas that people typically find challenging.

We looked for programs that offer a high level of flexibility, making it easy to fit your studies around other parts of your life. We also prioritized shorter programs that allow you to earn your doctorate in record time and progress with your career and avoided those with lengthy dissertation requirements.

Walden University, The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences

PhD in Education – Higher Education Leadership and Policy (Self-Designed)

Walden University was named first in the USA  for PhD Education graduates. This is one of the easiest PhD programs to get into, as the University has an acceptance rate of 100%. It is also one of the shortest PhD programs in the field, offering a fast-track option that allows you to transfer up to 50% of your total credits and finish the program sooner.

• Courses include: Leading the future of education, education law, policy & governance, and higher education in the 21st century.
• Credits: 86 quarter credits
• Duration: 3-8 years
• Delivery: Online
• Tuition : $692 per quarter hour
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Capella University

PhD in Psychology – General Psychology

Capella University offers a wide range of online programs for students looking for ongoing education with a high degree of flexibility, including being able to study at their own pace. This PhD in Psychology is also one of the easiest online PhD programs, as it gives you the option to complete the doctorate in as little as five quarters.

• Courses include: Ethics & multicultural issues in psychology, advanced inferential statistics, and quantitative research methods in psychology.
• Credits: 87
• Duration: 5-9 quarters
• Tuition : $545
• Financial aid: Scholarships, employer discounts, and military benefits

The University of Florida, Department of Classics

PhD in Classical Studies

The US News & World Report named the University of Florida one of the top 5 public research universities  in the USA for 2023. With a focus on the humanities, many people will find this PhD program relatively easy, focusing on subjects like languages, culture, and history.

• Courses include: Greek prose composition, the roman tradition, and Latin prose composition.
• Credits: 60
• Duration: 3 years
• Delivery: On-campus
• Tuition : $12,744
• Financial aid: Fellowships, scholarships, and teaching assistantships
• Acceptance rate: 31%
• Location: Gainesville, Florida

Faulkner University

Doctor of Philosophy in Humanities

Faulkner University was founded on Christian principles and offers many flexible programs designed to help students balance their education with their other commitments. This is one of the easiest PhD programs because you can complete it in just 48 credit hours while gaining a global intellectual and spiritual perspective through courses covering thought, ideas, and literature in the Western tradition.

• Courses include: Scholarly inquiry & writing in the humanities, historical investigations, and literary analysis.
• Credits: 48
• Duration: 3 years+
• Tuition : $650 per semester hour
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 76%
• Location: Montgomery, Alabama

Regent University

PhD in Renewal Theology

Regent University is a popular private institution that offers programs in over 150 areas of study, including some easy PhD programs that can be completed with very flexible study arrangements. This theology doctorate program aims to create future church leaders with a global outlook based on a Renewal approach to history and contemporary issues.

• Courses include: Advanced hermeneutics, renewal theology, and advanced cosmogony & anthropology.
• Duration: 4 years+
• Delivery: Online (with 2-week on-campus residency each fall)
• Tuition : $670 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 50%
• Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia

Boston University, College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College

Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PP-OTD)

Boston University is a private institution ranked #1  in occupational therapy by the US News & World Report. This PP-OTD is one of the easiest doctorate degrees in physical therapy because you can complete it in just 18 months. It aims to equip practicing therapists for higher leadership roles capable of innovatively addressing the field’s key challenges.

• Courses include: Social policy & disability, health promotion & wellness, and evaluating clinical theory & research.
• Credits: 33-37
• Duration: 18 months
• Tuition: Varies
• Financial aid: Scholarships, employer reimbursement, and federal loans
• Acceptance rate: 20%
• Location: Boston, Massachusetts

The University of Tennessee Knoxville, College of Social Work

Doctor of Social Work (DSW) in Clinical Practice & Leadership

The College of Social Work is a higher education institution that strives to provide exemplary education in social work. It’s also heavily involved in international projects, which allows students to develop a global perspective on the sector. You could consider this DSW to be an easy doctorate degree, as an accelerated program designed to train existing clinical social workers in advanced clinical practice and leadership.

• Courses include: Neuroscience for clinical practice, psychopathology & psychopharmacology, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, graduate assistantships, veteran services, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 78%
• Location: Knoxville, Tennessee

New York University, School of Law

Juris Doctor (JD)

New York University is one of the largest private universities in the country, with campuses and academic centers across the globe. In this JD program, students enjoy a strong blend of theory of law and practice through the school’s more than forty legal clinics.

• Courses include: Constitutional law, survey of criminal procedure, and international law.
• Credits: 83
• Duration: 5 years
• Tuition : $73,216
• Financial aid: Scholarships, fellowships, veteran benefits, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 21%
• Location: New York City, New York

North Carolina State University, College of Design

Doctor of Design (DDes)

NC State University is among the top 1% of universities worldwide, according to the Center for World University Rankings. This program encourages practicing professionals to develop innovative concepts and promote them more generally in the design community and society. It is an easy doctorate degree in design in that you can complete it in three years or even less.

• Courses include: Research methods in design, case study analysis in design, and design for health & wellbeing.
• Credits: 57
• Delivery: Online (with one week of on-campus study every semester)
• Tuition : $505.28
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, student employment, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 46%
• Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Frontier Nursing University

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Frontier Nursing University is a not-for-profit institution with several accolades for nursing education, ranking third  for online master’s family nurse practitioner programs. The program is designed for working professionals and emphasizes evidence-based practice, with a quality improvement project in collaboration with your chosen clinical site. With this easy doctorate program, you can earn the highest nursing qualification in mere 15-18 months.

• Courses include: Epidemiology & biostatistics, ethics & health policy, and leadership & organizational dynamics.
• Credits: 30
• Duration: 15-18 months
• Delivery: Online (with 3-day on-campus orientation)
• Tuition: $19,380
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, employer benefits, veteran benefits, and loans
• Acceptance rate: 66%
• Location: Versailles, Kentucky

What’s the Difference Between a Professional Degree and a Doctorate?

A PhD program largely focuses on theoretical learning and the analytical aspects of the discipline you’re studying. It typically involves extensive research presented in a lengthy thesis or dissertation, often proposing a new theory or innovative findings.

On the other hand, a professional doctorate or master’s degree emphasizes gaining knowledge for practical applications and does not typically involve a dissertation. While a PhD can make you an erudite scholar well-equipped to work in research or academia, a professional degree typically leads to a career path as a professional in the industry, government, or nonprofit sector.

FAQs about the Easiest PhDs

Which phd is the easiest to get.

The PhD you’ll find easiest will depend on your own strengths and weaknesses and your passions. Generally, most people will find doctorates in the arts and humanities the easiest. Flexible programs that can be completed online and accelerated ones with a shorter overall time commitment are the easiest to complete in terms of meeting other life commitments.

Which Subject Is Easy for a PhD?

Subjects like the humanities, education, theology, and psychology are generally considered the easiest, mostly because they involve less quantitative research and rely on qualitative study methods.

Final Thoughts

The easiest PhD for you will depend on your own talents, weaknesses, and which practical aspects of the program will make it easiest for you to earn your doctorate. Many people find the arts and humanities easier than science and math, though your passion for any subject can make studying it relatively easy. Having the flexibility to study online , at your own pace, or alternatively, in a shorter, more intensive period like a 1-year PhD program  can also make it easier to finish your PhD.

Although easiness is one factor to consider when choosing the right PhD for you, it certainly isn’t everything. Most importantly, you should opt for the program that matches your interests and is most likely to help you achieve your career and life goals.

Want to explore more options? Check out our list of the highest paying PhDs  to learn about the programs that will give you the best return on your investment.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

• Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ ACBSP Vs AACSB: Which Business Program Accreditations is Better?
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Explore a range of online doctoral programs, including Ph.D. degrees, that offer accelerated paths, reduced residency requirements, and flexible online learning options.

Many degree programs fall under the title of doctorate, including Doctor of Philosophy degrees or Ph.D.

These Ph.D. degree programs are available in a variety of subjects and are intended to help students understand their specialty in the abstract and as a school of thought and theory rather than strictly as a practice.

Institutions that offer the best programs typically have exceptional funding, prestigious reputations, top-of-the-line research facilities, and abundant academic resources.

When selecting one of the shortest online doctoral programs or easiest online Ph.D. programs, you can access more info by visiting the links provided in each school description to ensure that you find the best program for you!

The easiest isn't always the shortest nor the shortest the easiest.

Doctorate Programs That Might Interest You

1-year Online Doctoral Programs | 18 Month Doctorate Programs Without Dissertation | Shortest Doctoral Programs Online and On-campus | Easiest Ph.D. to Get Online | Easiest PhD to Get (Traditional) | Free PhD Programs Online

Doctorate Degree vs PhD

Ph.D. programs focus more on the theoretical and abstract aspects of their respective fields of study to understand it as a school of thought rather than just a practical application.

Usual doctorate programs tend to be more practical in their study and focus on the application of knowledge rather than understanding more abstract perspectives.

Ph.D. degrees are often offered in the same fields that have standard doctoral degrees available usually offered in fields such as engineering, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

Doctorate programs are made up of advanced coursework, research projects, or thesis work almost strictly for practical application. Such degrees will get you ready to teach at the university level or help you advance to the leading edge of your field researching, serving, and creating.

Ph.D. and Doctorate degrees can often achieve the same ends and should be considered more or less equal in weight.

1 Year Ph.D. Programs Online

Chatham university.

Chatham offers a 1-year online DNP program for working nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. The intensive curriculum covers care delivery models, quality improvement, evidence-based practice, and informational systems. The program features synchronous online classes and immersive clinicals at sites nationwide. Students collaborate virtually with renowned faculty.

Within 12 months, students complete 36 credits and 1,000 clinical hours. Graduates can sit for Family Nurse Practitioner certification. Nurses with a BSN can enter the accelerated program. Applicants need an active RN license. This online DNP empowers nurses to rapidly earn doctoral credentials while working. It prepares graduates to advance as clinical, executive, research, and teaching leaders.

Breyer State Theology University

Breyer State Theology University offers a 1-year online PhD in Grief Counseling through its Department of Ethereal Studies. This accelerated program is tailored for working professionals seeking to advance their bereavement therapy career. The curriculum covers advanced grief counseling theories and interventions for diverse populations. Students gain expertise in areas like trauma-informed care, healing rituals, afterlife philosophies, and continuing bonds.

The online format combines asynchronous learning with live classes in an intimate cohort overseen by esteemed faculty. Students complete their dissertation in just one year. Graduates earn a PhD from BSU's pioneering metaphysical psychology department. This flexible doctoral program prepares students to progress their counseling practice or pursue academic research roles.

American International Theism University

American International Theism University (AITU) offers one-year online doctoral degrees for working professionals. Accelerated PhD tracks include Philosophy of Islamic Studies, Business Administration, Education, Finance, and Grief Counseling. Professional doctorates prepare leaders in Divinity, Sacred Music, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. The online programs blend video lectures, discussions, and immersive retreats. Curricula explore metaphysics, ethics, and wisdom traditions across faiths.

Within 12 months, students complete doctoral coursework, exams, and a dissertation overseen by distinguished faculty. Applicants should hold a relevant master's degree and background in theological studies or social sciences. These intensive online doctoral programs allow students to rapidly earn advanced credentials through flexible study with global peers. Graduates pursue roles driving innovation in spiritual care, research, and leadership.

Online Doctorate Programs That Might Interest You

15-18 month doctorate programs without dissertation, boston university.

Boston University offers a Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree program that can be completed in 18 months. The program consists of 10 courses, which are about 33 to 37 credits. Students may concentrate on various areas and can then choose what else they would prefer to learn to complete their credit requirements.

This is a fully online degree program that accelerates each semester’s worth of class to take only seven weeks to complete with new courses starting every September, January, and May. The program is available to doctoral students who have completed an accredited occupational therapy program. There are foundation courses, which include evidence-based practice and health care management, but no dissertation is necessary whereas a doctoral project is still required.

Frontier Nursing University

The Maryville University of St. Louis offers a Doctor of Nursing (DNP) program that is available online. The DNP program requires students to complete a total of 33 credit hours, including 18 to 20 months for completion. Many students in the online DNP program are working as nurses in the field, and this affords them a flexible program that allows many students to achieve their academic goals while active in the healthcare industry.

This course is an online program that does not require a GMAT or GRE. It may have a waiting list, but unlike other programs, it does not require clinical hours. The Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership is an online program that offers personal coaching throughout the process. It is a cohort learning method with online education, and students might need a bit more time to complete it.

Maryville University

Maryville University offers online doctoral degrees tailored for working professionals. Programs available fully online include Doctorates in Higher Education Leadership, Educational Leadership, Nursing Practice, Health Administration, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. The EdD programs prepare graduates for leadership and faculty roles in education. The DNP equips nurses for advanced clinical and executive practice.

Health Administration focuses on healthcare organizational development, quality, and finance. Licensed PTs and OTs can pursue clinical doctorates while working. Courses blend live online classes and self-paced learning. Programs leverage cutting-edge virtual labs and simulations. With a relevant master's degree, students can earn an accredited doctorate from Maryville University online to advance their careers.

24 Month Doctorate Programs

University of north carolina – chapel hill.

One option is to earn an online Ph.D. in Nursing, while another option is to earn their Medical Degree at the same time as their  Master of Business Administration , but the Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical therapy may be earned in 24 months fully online. This part-time program provides online learning courses to help licensed physical therapists enhance their skills and gain access to higher career options. Some credits can be earned through workplace applications.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers over a dozen online doctoral degrees tailored for working professionals. GCU provides online EdD tracks in Organizational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, and K-12 Leadership. Other doctorates cover psychology, nursing, business, and more. Programs blend asynchronous and live virtual classes focused on applying concepts. Specialized tracks allow customization.

Online students get personalized faculty support and access to robust digital resources. Within 2 years (or less), learners complete coursework, residencies, exams, and a dissertation to earn an accredited doctoral degree from GCU. With flexible and practical curricula, GCU enables busy professionals to obtain doctorates fully online and further their careers.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Education degree program that can be completed fully online. The minimum time to earn the degree is about 30 months for completion of all 54 credits. The courses are each 8 weeks long and no dissertation is required. The Doctor of Education degree program provides a curriculum that focuses on developing innovative programs, as well as a capstone project.

University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia offers several online doctoral degree options for working professionals seeking advanced training. UWG provides online doctorates in School Improvement, Nursing Education, Professional Counseling and Supervision, and Higher Education Administration. The EdD programs focus on data-driven leadership strategies and developing administrative expertise.

The DNP prepares nurses to improve care systems and patient outcomes. Coursework blends synchronous evening classes and self-paced learning for flexibility. Experiential projects allow application to careers. With a relevant master's degree, students can earn an accredited doctorate fully online from UWG to advance as leaders in their field.

Shortest Ph.D. Programs Online and On-campus

Obtaining a Ph.D. can be a long-term commitment and many doctoral programs can take over five years to complete. To help busy working professionals looking to jumpstart their careers and those looking to begin their careers at a high level, this list serves as a simple reference guide, compiling information on some of the shortest doctoral programs in the country.

These online degree programs operate in full-time, part-time, fully online, or hybrid formats.

• Baylor University - online EdD in Learning and Organizational Change, 54 credits, 36 months
• Maryville University - online Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online DNP), 20 months, no GRE or no GMAT requirement
• University of Dayton - online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership for Organizations, 36 months, 60 credits
• Capella University - online Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision, 0 max transfer credits, 60 credits, CACREP accredited
• Franklin University - online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), 58 credit hours, transfer up to 24 hours of previously earned credit, 36 months + 1 year for dissertation
• Walden University - online Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology, up to 53 credits, fast-track option, earn MPhil at the same time
• Frontier Nursing University - online Doctor of Nursing Practice, MSN with DNP, 675 clinical hours for MSN plus 360 additional for DNP
• Boston University - Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, PP-OTD, 33-37 credits
• University of Florida - online MSN to DNP, 35 credits, five semesters
• Gwynedd Mercy University - Accelerated Executive Doctorate of Education ABD (All But Dissertation) Completion Program, online EdD , 27 credit hours, 18 months
• Duquesne University - Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), 35 credit hours
• The College of St. Scholastica - Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy, online tDPT, 16 credits
• Liberty Univesity - Doctor of Ministry, online DMin, 30 credit hours, 24 months
• University of Florida - Doctor of Nursing Practice, MSN to DNP, 35 credits, 5 semesters
• University of North Dakota - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP, 36 credit hours, 5 semesters
• Seton Hall University - Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP, 31+ credits for post-MSN students, 73-79 credits for post-BSN students
• Regis University - Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP , 28-33 credit hours, 8-week terms
• Georgia State University - Curriculum and Instruction EdD, Educational Leadership EdD, on-campus EdD, 54 credit hours
• Bowling Green State University   - Technology Management, web-based Ph.D., 66 credit hours
• Hampton University - Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management, online Ph.D., 60 credit hours
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Safety Sciences, online Ph.D., 54 credit hours
• East Carolina University   - Doctor of Nursing Practice, hybrid online DNP

Easiest Ph.D. Programs Online & On-Campus

To be sure, at the Ph.D. level, no program could be considered "easy," but there are certain programs designed to be "easier" than others. Generally, education, humanities, and the social sciences are considered the easiest fields in which to pursue degrees.

With that in mind, our list of the easiest Ph.D. programs includes schools and programs that offer significantly reduced residency requirements, accelerated courses, credit transfers, and integrated dissertation colloquia.

The rankings below display schools with accreditation from at least one of the six regional accrediting agencies , and all offer at least one virtual Ph.D. degree. Accredited online Ph.D. programs are also organized according to the U.S. News and World Report and Forbes Magazine rankings.

Easiest Online Ph.D. Programs & Online Doctoral Programs

• WALDEN UNIVERSITY - 156 Online Doctoral Programs
• REGENT UNIVERSITY - 81 online doctorate degrees, 6 Ph.D. programs online
• HAMPTON UNIVERSITY - 5 online doctoral degree programs
• UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - 8 online doctoral degree programs
• UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI - 4 online doctorate programs
• COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - 3 online Ph.D. programs, 1 online doctoral program
• UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA - 12 online Ph.D. programs, 3 online doctoral programs
• NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY -  10 online doctorate programs, 8 online Ph.D. programs
• LIBERTY UNIVERSITY -  19 online Ph.D. programs, 16 online doctorate programs

Easiest Ph.D. to Get (Traditional)

The easiest doctorate degree can vary depending on your interests, skills, and strengths. However, here is a list of doctorate degrees that are mentioned as potentially less difficult to obtain:

• Business Administration: This program focuses on business development, design, methods, tools, and professional ethics. A Ph.D. in Business Administration can be a good choice for professionals looking to advance their careers in business.
• Counseling: A doctorate in counseling allows you to specialize in areas such as human behavior, social psychology, counseling supervision, or specific therapy approaches. This degree can lead to advanced career opportunities in healthcare and social services.
• Criminal Justice: This program equips you with research skills and the ability to analyze data in the field of criminal justice. It can open doors to various career paths, including emergency management, forensic departments, and information security sectors.
• Education: A doctorate in education focuses on enhancing educational research skills and preparing for leadership roles in educational institutions. It can lead to administrative positions in universities, professional departments, or elementary and secondary schools.
• Healthcare Administration: This program prepares you for leadership roles in the business aspect of the medical industry. It covers topics such as policies, ethics, group management, hospital administration, and advanced patient care.
• Human Services: A doctorate in human services prepares you for leadership positions within organizations that help underserved populations. It focuses on policies, legislation, rights, ethics, and protocols for serving within human services organizations.
• Management: This program provides practical skills applicable to various industry settings. It covers areas such as financial management, system management, conflict management, and human resources management.
• Public Administration: A doctorate in public administration develops managerial and strategic planning skills for administrative roles in different industries. It offers coursework in ethics of management, public policy, strategic planning, performance management, employee evaluation, and economics of administration.
• Public Health: This program equips you with advanced training and research skills for the healthcare industry. It focuses on leadership and management roles in public health, emphasizing innovative thinking and communication mastery.
• Public Policy: A doctorate in public policy focuses on theory, ethics, research, and practice in public service programs. It prepares you to analyze and propose policies to improve communities and societies.
• Psychology: A doctorate in psychology combines research skills with professional practice. It can lead to careers as addictions counselors, applied researchers, professional consultants, or clinical psychologists.
• Theology: A doctorate in theology explores divine and spiritual traditions through academics, research, and religious studies. It can lead to careers as professors, social service managers, private school teachers, or directors of religious education.

Please note that the difficulty of a doctorate degree can vary depending on individual circumstances, personal strengths, and the specific requirements of each program. It's important to thoroughly research and consider your own interests, skills, and career goals before deciding on a doctorate program.

Free Ph.D. Programs Online (Fully Funded)

According to Best-Universities.net .

• Brown University - Fully-funded Ph.D. program in computer science
• University of Houston-Downtown - Full scholarship program for online doctorate
• Devry University - Comprehensive scholarship program for online degrees
• University of Maryland-Baltimore County - Full scholarship program for online undergraduate and graduate degrees
• Wilson Community College - Full scholarship program for community college students
• University of Leeds - Up to 30 fully-funded online Ph.D. programs
• University of the Witwatersrand - Comprehensive scholarship program for online bachelor's or master's degrees
• The University of Texas at Dallas - Full scholarship program for online bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees
• University of Strathclyde - Full scholarship program for online undergraduate or master's degrees
• Emory University - Fully-funded online Ph.D. program in economics
• New York University - Fully-funded Ph.D. program in childhood education
• University of Pennsylvania - Fully-funded online Ph.D. program in educational leadership and policy

If you're not looking for an accelerated program , the list below displays some of the best traditional Ph.D. programs in the country, according to Study.com.

Best Ph.D. Programs in the U.S.

Guide to online doctorate degrees.

Fewer positions requiring this advanced level qualification and reduced competition for such job opportunities among job seekers are some of the reasons behind the few doctoral graduates.

With technological advancements in almost all areas of life, acquiring education, a significantly advanced level of education has become more accessible.

Graduate students now do not have to attend physical classes to pursue their dreams of developing and advancing their skills.

You can pursue your doctorate in the comfort of your home or even your office. There was a 20% growth in students granted doctorate degrees between the 2009/2010 and 2019/2020 academic years, according to NCES. This growth has been attributed in part to online Ph.D. programs and the streamlining of modern universities.

Online Ph.D. programs are a relatively newer idea and online schooling in general has greatly increased access, flexibility, and convenience.

Students typically complete these degrees soon after completing a Master’s degree in the same area. As such, and with bachelor's degrees being necessary stepping stones, students can expect their journey from primary school to a Ph.D. to take about nine years, barring any accelerated tracks and failed classes.

Cost of an Online Doctoral Degree Program

When choosing any doctoral degree program, it is crucial to evaluate the costs and salary after attending. Even though online Ph.D. courses may usually be cheaper than on-campus learning, secondary schooling is rarely cheap and not every field will allow you to make back the cost in a reasonable amount of time.

Tuition, materials, technology, transportation, housing, and groceries should all be factors brought into account when deciding whether or where to attend, and in what field you can find the most success and fulfillment.

Below are the annual tuition rates of different institutions as reported by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

• Private-For profit institutions- $18,200
• Private-Not for-profit institutions- $37,600
• Public institutions- $9,400

Choosing an Online Doctoral Degree Program

Since doctoral programs require considerable investments of money and time, it is important to consider every factor before deciding on a school or program. Take some time to consider the marketability, cost, and difficulty of each program and your own interest in the subject. To reach your career and educational goals, do your best research.

How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD

The length of a Ph.D. program can vary, but it typically takes 3 to 6 years to complete.

• A Ph.D. program typically takes 5 to 6 years in the United States.
• A Ph.D. program typically takes 3 to 4 years in the UK and many other European countries.

The actual length of a Ph.D. program can be influenced by many factors, including the nature of the research, the student's progress, the advisor's availability, and funding considerations.

• Some students may finish in less time, while others may take longer.
• Part-time Ph.D. programs are also available, which can take longer to complete.

Here is a table summarizing the length of Ph.D. programs in different countries:

Top 50 doctorate-granting institutions ranked by the total number of doctorate recipients, by sex: 2020

Tied institutions are listed alphabetically.

National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, Survey of Earned Doctorates.

Doctorate recipients from U.S. colleges and universities: 1958–2020

(Number and percent) * = value < |0.05%|.

State or location of doctorate institution ranked by the total number of doctorate recipients, by sex: 2020

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15 Easiest Online Ph.D. and Doctorate Degrees

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: February 23, 2024 , Reading time: 31 minutes

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While graduate school has its fair share of challenges, some of the easiest online Ph.D. and doctorates feature easy fields of study that make the educational journey more enjoyable.

But interested individuals – you, for example – will also find a field of study easy if and when you have a keen interest and abiding passion for it.

Quick audio summary:

Easiest Online Ph.D. and Doctorate Degrees

Ph.d. in homeland security.

The identification, prevention, and mitigation of domestic terrorism are students’ primary focus in Ph.D. in Homeland Security programs. Students gain advanced skill sets in conducting rigorous research in homeland security and the appropriate applications of their research in real-world settings.

The theory and practices related to homeland security, including policy creation and leadership opportunities, are also discussed. 

The curriculum covers a broad variety of topics but still provides deeper insights. The common courses are in emergency management, terrorism strategy, including counterterrorism and intelligence, and issues in critical infrastructure security. Students must formulate solutions to homeland security issues, evaluate the relationships between their causes and effects, and defend their stand on these issues. 

While advanced math and science courses aren’t in the curriculum, the intellectual demands placed on students require exceptional critical thinking, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. These skills are vital in real-world situations where lives are at stake, perhaps even world peace.

Students must have a keen understanding of national and international dynamics, adopt an interdisciplinary approach, and consider the issues from every possible angle. 

These approaches become evident in their dissertation or in other culminating projects, which showcase the students’ expert knowledge and skills in their specialization. The skill sets learned during post-graduate studies are valuable in the workplace, too, whether in academia, think tanks, or the Department of Homeland Security. 

Many jobs related to homeland security require top-level security clearance and, thus, current students must be careful about maintaining a spotless legal record. These include Secret Service agents, federal air marshals at TSA, and information security agents at the CIA. 

Median Pay: $103,590 per year

Job Outlook: 33% 

Job Opportunities:   Emergency management directors, information security analysts, and information technology specialists 

Best Schools: Colorado Technical University , National University , and Liberty University  

Ph.D. in Theology/Theological Studies 

The Ph.D. in Theology or Theological Studies degree and the Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) are considered equal since both are advanced research degrees. Both also provide students with in-depth training in the Christian ministry including spiritual and professional formation, usually with a strong emphasis on cultural sensitivity.

Students must possess graduate-level English language writing and speaking skills, leadership skills, robust faith, and Christian values. 

Many programs offer concentrations that provide more depth and breadth to the student’s body of knowledge. Common concentrations include Old Testament Studies, New Testament Studies, and Theology and Culture, each having specific electives to customize the degree.

Programs may also give different names to the Ph.D. in Theology or Theological Studies, such as Ph.D. in Religion or Ph.D. in Theology and Apologetics, but these share significant similarities. 

For one thing, students train to become teachers and scholars through didactic coursework, research, and internships in faith-based organizations. For another thing, students must strengthen their faith while strengthening their pedagogical knowledge and skills in preparation for careers in academia, ministry, and community service. 

The Bible is obviously at the heart of their studies, but students must read diverse learning materials covering Christian theology in theory and practice. Many of these materials also discuss Christianity in less than favorable light and, thus, enable students to see both sides of the coin. 

Being accepted into a Ph.D. in Theology program is fairly easy, but you must have a master’s degree in a related field, such as religious studies, theology, or even ancient history. Many programs have less strict admissions criteria, even admitting people outside of the Christian faith. 

Median Pay: $90,160 per year 

Job Outlook: 2% 

Job Opportunities:   Post-secondary theology teachers, ministers and pastors, and religious education directors  

Best Schools: Regent University , and Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary

Ph.D./Doctor of Education in Curriculum Development and Instruction

The Ph.D. and Doctor of Education (EdD) degrees are terminal degrees for education professionals with career advancement in their sights. Their advanced skill sets, combined with their extensive work experience, make them qualified for leadership positions, such as school administrators, dean of students, and principals. 

Curriculum theory and design, quantitative and qualitative methods in education research, instructional design, and technology integration are among the core courses. These courses are intended to enable students to deepen their understanding of the theories and practices, including their social, moral, and intellectual implications of curriculum development.

Students also learn to design, develop, implement, evaluate, and modify curricula based on the changing needs in education. 

Since the dissertation is the ultimate graduate requirement, students must also take it to heart and apply various quantitative and qualitative methods in education research. These include multivariate data analysis, statistical inference, interview and case studies, document analysis, ethnography, data collection, analysis, and presentation techniques.

In a globalized world, students must also develop their interest in the diversity of education, including its subcultures, perhaps incorporating it into their dissertation. 

These technical skills are all well and good, but the best education leaders also possess transferable skills that make them stand out! Patience, perseverance, and empathy are among the personal traits of effective teacher-leaders and effective communication and critical thinking skills. Charisma is a bonus if you have it! 

The challenge lies in the many reading materials students must complete to comply with the assignment and examination requirements. But if you’re into reading, it shouldn’t be a big deal, not to mention that you will learn a lot. 

Median Pay: $97,500 per year 

Job Outlook: 8% 

Job Opportunities:   Instructional designers, academic deans, and department chairs 

Best Schools: Texas Tech University , Texas A&M University , and Georgia Southern University  

Ph.D. in Finance/Doctor of Business Administration in Finance

These doctorate degrees are the exception to the rule because students must possess a comprehensive understanding of advanced mathematics and economics.

But for students who love solving math-based problems with real-world applications! Their relative ease is due to the absence of advanced science courses that, in many ways, make a doctorate in finance not exactly rocket science. 

There are several similarities between the Ph.D. in Finance degree and the DBA with a Finance concentration degree. Full-time students can take between four and five years to complete their academic requirements, including the dissertation. Both also tackle various finance-related subjects and qualitative and quantitative research methods.

The coursework includes corporate finance, microeconomic theory, statistics, and international finance. 

However, the Ph.D. in Finance degree has a more theoretical approach with an emphasis on research, including the development of business knowledge.

Students push for cutting-edge theories in the ever-evolving marketplace while also learning pedagogy to educate tomorrow’s finance leaders. There’s a greater emphasis on the analytical perspective, not on the operational viewpoint that an MBA provides. Professionals who want to become university professors and researchers are more suitable for this degree. 

The DBA in Finance degree has a more hands-on practical perspective about finance in particular and business in general. The emphasis is on vocational training for effective applications in real-world settings, less on theory and research. Graduates are then qualified for leadership positions in the corporate world but are also accepted as faculty members in business schools. 

Median Pay: $83,660 per year

Job Outlook: 6%  

Job Opportunities:   College professors, monetary policy experts, and researchers at think tanks

Best Schools: University of Georgia , Liberty University , and National University  

Ph.D. in Accounting

Accounting professionals pursue a Ph.D. in Accounting degree to increase their opportunities for career advancement, including their earning potential.

Accountants with a doctorate are qualified for leadership positions in corporate management, finance, and academia, meaning that it’s a degree suitable for both career advancement and change. In general, it can take at least four years to earn the degree, and it costs more than $18,000 per year in prestigious universities. 

But there are silver linings, from the scholarships, employer waivers, and assistantships to the increase in competitiveness for plum positions. Ph.D. programs in accounting programs also don’t have advanced math and science courses, so their programs of study are easier to manage than, say, doctorate degrees in aeronautics and engineering.

A Ph.D. in accounting is also a preparation for licensure as a certified fraud examiner, public accountant, and management accountant. 

But this isn’t to say that a Ph.D. in Accounting degree is easy-peasy either! Students must have a comprehensive background in accounting, including a master’s degree in accounting or a related field. Sufficient work experience in accounting is also a common admission requirement, aside from the GRE/GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. 

Students must also be keen on conducting independent and original research highlighted in an approved dissertation. Since it’s a Ph.D. degree, the dissertation is at the heart of the studies and its culmination. The curriculum includes courses in advanced statistics, accounting theory and research, corporate governance, and microeconomic theory. 

Many programs offer concentrations that allow students to become specialists. The popular concentrations are forensic accounting, public accounting, audit accounting, managerial accounting, and accounting information systems. 

Median Pay: $134,180 per year

Job Outlook: 17% 

Job Opportunities:   Chartered financial analysts, certified management accountants, and certified fraud examiner

Best Schools: Capella University , Florida Atlantic University , and Walden University  

Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship/Doctor of Business Administration with Entrepreneurship Concentration

Students in doctorate in entrepreneurship degree programs are risk-takers whose willingness to find innovative solutions improves business performance.

Their program of study covers topics on finding and exploiting business opportunities, developing and controlling business plans, and leading businesses. Intellectual property, market research and strategies, and networking are also emphasized due to their impact on business success. 

The Ph.D. program is the best preparation for students interested in careers as analysts, researchers, policymakers, and teachers. The curriculum emphasizes rigorous research that contributes to existing knowledge and advances entrepreneurship as a discipline. Their research and academic contributions make entrepreneurship an attractive option for many people. 

The DBA with Entrepreneurship concentration degree is a practitioner-based degree, meaning students prepare for careers in business. These include practicing entrepreneurs, venture analysts, and business consultants whose expert business knowledge and skills are evident in their body of work, including their businesses and portfolios. 

While their curricula don’t contain advanced math and science courses, these are demanding degree programs, too! You must be intellectually curious, possess excellent communication skills and a strong work ethic, and be willing to take risks. The rigorous academic training will also challenge your intellect and determination, open your eyes to the possibilities, and stimulate your creativity. 

Ph.D. students work with faculty advisors to generate excellent dissertations worthy of being published in entrepreneurship journals, such as Leadership Quarterly. DBA students may or may not have dissertation requirements to meet due to the practitioner focus of the degree.

Instead, many programs require a capstone project that highlights their potential for success as entrepreneurs or consultants. 

Median Pay: $87,660 per year

Job Outlook: 14%

Job Opportunities: Management consultants, university professors, and think tank researchers  

Best Schools: Walden University , Regent University , and University of Oklahoma  

Ph.D./Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management

Many education leaders have either a Ph.D. or an EdD in Educational Leadership and Management because of its rigorous training! Their leadership positions include academic deans, provosts, presidents of universities, K-12 principals, and school superintendents.

Their advanced education included leadership theory and practices, university and community relations, and curriculum design and management. 

Ph.D. students, however, are more adept at research and scholarly activities due to their programs’ emphasis on the dissertation as the culminating requirement. EdD students have more practitioner training that can be applied to the broad variety of issues encountered in the classrooms, faculty rooms, and boardrooms of schools.

Nonetheless, both types of doctorate students may take between three and four years to earn the degree, although the number of credits will vary. 

Concentrations are offered in many programs, including K-12 schools or higher education. Aside from the electives, these concentrations share several common topics, including law, finance, and communication. Other topics include learning technologies, innovation, and international education, which provide students with useful insights into the emerging trends in education. 

Aside from the dissertation, students may also be required to complete an internship and a capstone project. If you want to have an easier time, you may consider non-dissertation programs that require a capstone project or an internship instead.

Nova Southeastern University’s EdD in Educational Leadership program with its Strategic Research Project (SRP) option instead of the traditional dissertation is a prime example. 

Median Pay: $97,500 per year

Job Opportunities:   College provosts, principals, and school superintendents or administrators 

Best Schools: Drexel University , Trident University , and Indiana State University  

Ph.D./Doctor of Education in Human Services

Human services professionals are dedicated to providing useful and meaningful assistance to individuals in crises, such as homeless people and other people in need.

Their assistance enables their clients to become self-sufficient individuals in the long term, usually through skills training and referrals to community services and resources. Indeed, theirs is a job that positively impacts 

Students in Ph.D. and EdD in Human Services programs work or are qualified to work in housing and employment agencies, public safety and emergency relief organizations, and educational institutions. Non-profit organizations are as popular as government agencies and private entities, too. 

The Ph.D. in Human Services programs have a more research-focused curriculum culminating in a dissertation. The EdD in Human Resources programs, in contrast, have a practice-based approach, a common thread in EdD programs in all fields of study.

Both, however, emphasize effective leadership in contemporary human services, be it as researchers, teachers, or practitioners with hands-on exposure. 

Courses include organizational leadership, enabling students to make informed leadership decisions and learn advanced research methodology. Advanced Math and science courses are absent from the curriculum, but students have plenty of learning materials to read, summarize, and present.

Rote memorization isn’t encouraged since the ultimate learning outcome is leading human services-related research and projects – meaningful insights with practical applications are more appreciated. 

Concentrations may be offered, with common ones being gerontology (services for the elderly), family studies and intervention, crisis and intervention, mental health services, and emergency relief in crises and disasters. 

Median Pay: $107,680 per year

Job Opportunities: CEO and directors of non-profit organizations, post-secondary teachers, social and community service managers

Best Schools: Nova Southeastern University , University of Arizona , and Houston Baptist University  

Ph.D. in Criminal Justice

The beauty of a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice degree lies in its expansive career options, with its holders being qualified for both theory-based and practice-based occupations. Students learn the ropes of the criminal justice system on the graduate level and, thus, become adept at addressing the current issues in the field. 

Many programs also offer concentrations intended to advance the knowledge and skills of professionals in a specific specialization. The popular choices are juvenile justice, criminal justice policy, and homeland security. All of these are considered useful for career advancement purposes.

Online programs also make it easier for working professionals to balance their personal and professional commitments through asynchronous technologies. 

Regardless of concentration, these programs adopt a multidisciplinary approach since criminal justice has several disciplines from which it draws its body of knowledge. The typical curriculum includes sociology, public policy, behavioral psychology, and organizational leadership, their theories and practices.

Relevant courses also include policy creation and analysis in criminal justice, homeland security policy, and emergency management. 

Again, there is no rocket science-level math and science coursework, but students must set aside time for reading voluminous learning materials. Students must have effective reading skills, including skimming and seeing the lessons in a new light and gaining insights from them.

Critical thinking and communication skills are a must since criminal justice issues are among the most complicated in our society. 

Most programs consist of 50-75 credits for completion, including coursework, capstone projects, and dissertation. The degree can be earned in five years, minimum, for full-time students. 

Job Outlook: 33%

Job Opportunities: Post-secondary teachers, police chiefs, and homeland security administrators/information security analysts  

Best Schools: Saint Leo University , California University of Pennsylvania , and Nova Southeastern University

Ph.D. in Public Policy

Students in Ph.D. programs in public policy must possess strong critical thinking, analytical thinking, and communication skills because of the interdisciplinary curriculum. The social science-centric doctorate enables students to create positive social change through effective, responsive, inclusive political action.

Public policy professionals are also in the right position to shape and influence regulatory policy, train policy advocates, and research the impact of public policies. 

With their formal education, Ph.D. in Public Policy degree holders are qualified for leadership positions in academia, research organizations, and public policy and administration entities. Keep in mind that since it’s a research-centric Ph.D. degree, its professionals are likely to be more effective at research and teaching than in practice-based positions.

Then again, practice-based expertise in public policy can be learned with a Ph.D. degree and work experience. 

The core of a Ph.D. in Public Policy program is the dissertation, where each candidate becomes a capable, independent researcher by the end of the research project. The coursework won’t be a challenge to students with less than stellar skills in advanced math and science subjects – there are none of these subjects.

However, the coursework on globalization and development, social policy, environmental policy, and health policy, among others, is as challenging as it is stimulating for persons with considerable intellect. 

Concentrations further narrow the scope of study and enable candidates to become specialists in one of the areas of public policy. Examples include politics and institutions, economics, science, technology, and policy studies. 

Median Pay: $125,350 per year

Job Outlook: 9%

Job Opportunities:   Political scientists, university professors, and policy analysts 

Best Schools: University of Maryland , Old Dominion University , and Tennessee State University 

Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology/Psychological Studies

Sixty-nine APA-accredited programs offer doctorate degrees in counseling psychology or psychological studies across the United States. Many of these programs offer a research-centric Ph.D. degree. Others offer the Professional Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD) degree, emphasizing clinical practice using applied psychology. 

Graduates of both types are eligible to apply for licensure as psychologists. Clinical supervisors, rehabilitation counselors, and marriage and family therapists are other possible licenses. 

The Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology is a terminal degree that aspiring and current counseling researchers, counseling educators, and clinical supervisors find suitable for career advancement.

The program of study emphasizes the development of specialist knowledge through the completion of independent research, known as a dissertation. A faculty advisor typically guides the research project, but the candidate performs all the work toward its completion. 

Many programs require their candidates to become interns in clinical settings or other field experiences in addition to the dissertation and publishable paper.

While the combination of academic coursework, comprehensive exam, dissertation and paper, and internship seems too much to handle, it doesn’t have to be! These are all typical aspects of Ph.D. programs in any field, and there are effective ways of successfully dealing with them while maintaining your overall health. 

Besides, students admitted to Ph.D. programs already have significant work experience in counseling psychology and other related fields! The rigorousness of Ph.D. training isn’t new, especially for students with a master’s degree, but the insights are new and, thus, challenging and stimulating. Students also choose to enroll part-time, meaning there are fewer courses to tackle and fewer demands on their time. 

Median Pay: $82,180 per year

Job Opportunities: Clinical supervisors, marriage and family therapists, and rehabilitation counselors 

Best Schools: Adams State University , Hampton University , and Texas A&M University  

Ph.D./Doctor in Public Health

Community health workers, public health administrators, and public health advocates will benefit from the advanced Ph.D. and Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree programs! Students can perform graduate-level scientific research while also promoting public health. 

Graduates find many opportunities as medical and health services managers, epidemiologists, and public health professors. Combined with extensive work experience and leadership skills, these professionals have a profound influence on creating and changing the state of public health, too. 

Ph.D. and DrPH degree programs may have different approaches, but their time-to-completion ranges from three to seven years. The number of credits varies, too, between 40 and credits. In terms of approach, the Ph.D. degree emphasizes qualitative and quantitative research expertise, while the DrPH degree is for practitioners.

In the case of DrPH professionals, their duties include promoting public health awareness in schools, organizations, and communities and developing, implementing, and evaluating public health practices. 

Core coursework covers epidemiology, preventive medicine, biostatistics, and health policy topics. The culminating requirements are a dissertation and publishable paper for Ph.D. candidates and a special project for DrPH candidates.

In either case, the culminating requirement must pass rigorous standards, among the most challenging aspects of doctorate studies. The voluminous learning materials are also challenging, but students who love reading and learning will find it easier. 

Median Pay: $91,510 per year

Job Outlook: 17%

Job Opportunities:   Epidemiologists, medical and health services managers, biostatisticians, and medical scientists 

Best Schools: Johns Hopkins University , Walden University , and Pennsylvania State University

Ph.D. in Public Administration

Most students in Ph.D. in Public Administration programs are already involved in public administration work in government agencies and non-profit organizations.

However, their desire for leadership positions and other career advancement purposes motivate them toward pursuing the graduate degree. The desire to influence laws, policies, and practices in public administration through impactful research is also a common reason. 

There’s a widely held view that it’s an easier degree because of the absence of advanced STEM courses, and it’s true, but it also has its academic challenges. The core coursework covers a broad range of financial management and budgeting in the government sector, strategic planning and management, and stakeholder relations.

Ethics and social justice, performance management and evaluation, and networked governance are also common courses. 

Quantitative and qualitative research methods are also discussed in preparation for their application in the dissertation process. The dissertation typically explores a specific issue and offers solutions based on the evidence gathered. 

Students may choose from concentrations, but not all programs offer them. Popular concentrations are in public management, ethical leadership, analytics, and non-profit management, and each concentration has its specific set of graduation requirements.

The ethical leadership concentration, for example, enables candidates to address the most controversial and critical issues in public administration. The analytics concentration explores data as a resource and its environment, data modeling, and the database approach, all of which are crucial to more insightful expertise in data management. 

The beauty of a Ph.D. in Public Administration degree is in the abundance of career opportunities in public administration, from the local to the federal levels. 

Median Pay: $86,200 per year

Job Outlook: 25% 

Job Opportunities:   Operations research analysts, government affairs directors, and policy analysts 

Best Schools: Liberty University , University of Illinois Springfield , and Valdosta State University  

Ph.D./Doctor of Education in Adult and Lifelong Education

Students in doctorate in adult and lifelong education programs prepare for career advancement in organizations that provide adult literacy programs. These organizations include community and non-profit entities, government agencies, colleges, and universities, many of which provide free services to their clients.

These wide-ranging services include post-secondary education, military education, and continuing professional education. 

The coursework varies between Ph.D. and EdD programs, with Ph.D. programs being more research-focused and EdD programs focused more on practitioner training. However, these programs share core courses that include strategic planning and program evaluation, program planning, policy studies, supervision and professional development, and teaching and learning.

Ph.D. candidates also dive deeper, so to speak, into graduate-level qualitative and quantitative research methods for their dissertation. 

Students learn various skills, too, including: 

• Assessment of the educational needs of adult and lifelong learners in different types of environments 
• Design, implementation and evaluation of instructional programs for adult learners 
• Perform leadership and management functions in programs related to adult and lifelong learning 
• Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in research projects 

Professionals with an EdD in Adult and Lifelong Education degree are passionate about these aspects, too! Adult education also plays a crucial role in our society’s advancement because it allows adults to gain new knowledge, skills, and values.

As a result, adults become more productive citizens and enjoy a better quality of life. Research conducted into adult education contributes to improving adult education theories and practices.

Median Pay: $55,350 per year

Job Outlook: 5%

Job Opportunities:   Adult educator, community-based education and development worker, post-secondary professor 

Best Schools: Kansas State University , Michigan State University , and Ball State University  

Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics

The Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics degree enables candidates to conduct high-level research into the structure and rules of languages. Note that candidates may be required to learn one or more foreign languages in addition to the academic coursework, seminars, and dissertations.

The foreign language requirement boosts the candidates’ job prospects as interpreters/translators, ESL professors, and community development workers abroad. 

The foreign language requirement can be satisfied in many ways. For candidates whose first language isn’t English, proficiency in the language satisfied it. For native English speakers, demonstration of foreign language competency is typically required. 

Linguistics is considered a scientific subject but don’t worry as there are no rocket science-level math and science subjects in the Ph.D. programs. Instead, candidates ask critical questions about current issues and test hypotheses about the studied languages.

The role of language in various settings, from the societal level to the growth of children and adults at the individual level, is also studied. Candidates also study the structural parts of languages, including grammar, semantics, and phonetics. 

While Ph.D. programs provide candidates with a comprehensive linguistics background, candidates are also provided with the opportunity for specialization. Concentrations are intended to enable candidates to gain specialist expertise in second language acquisition, linguistics theory, historical linguistics, language variation, and sociolinguistics. Candidates enroll in major and elective courses according to their chosen concentration, but their culminating requirement is an approved individual dissertation. 

Job Outlook: 5% 

Job Opportunities:   ESL teachers, interpreters and translators, and college professors 

Best Schools: University of Memphis and University of Mississippi

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these online doctorate degrees the easiest.

Earning a doctorate in any field of study demands passion for the subject and perseverance against the challenges. But some factors make it less difficult to achieve! These 15 areas of study were chosen for the following reasons: 

• The curriculum has fewer advanced math and science courses required for completion. Studies have shown that STEM subjects are considered more difficult among the population. 
• The program of study emphasizes transferable skills, including critical thinking, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills, in addition to communication skills. Students are also evaluated based on independent and original research that introduces new ideas, interpretations, and solutions to current issues. 
• Many programs have no GRE and GMAT requirements, aside from less selective admissions criteria. Most, if not all, programs still have typical application requirements, including letters of recommendation, personal statements, and resumes. But these are common in the most challenging programs, too. 
• The programs may have no dissertation and residency requirements, meaning students can focus more on learning advanced knowledge and skills. 
• Thanks to self-paced courses and asynchronous design, the online learning method makes it easier to maintain a healthy work-life-studies balance. Many of these programs also have accelerated courses, such as eight-week courses that can be taken one at a time. 

Again, your choice of a doctorate program must be aligned with your personal and professional interests, career trajectory, and financial capability. 

What are the typical components of doctorate programs?

While every program has its unique learning outcomes, curriculum, and graduation requirements, the typical doctorate program consists of four academic components: 

• The major or focus courses are specific to the field of study or concentration, enabling students to gain deeper insights and more advanced skills. For example, a Ph.D. in Theological Studies degree will include courses in Biblical studies, comparative religion, and ministerial practices.  
• The research courses establish the foundational knowledge and skills in conducting research at the graduate level. The courses cover qualitative and quantitative research methods, such as advanced writing, research methodology, and applied statistics. 
• The elective courses customize your education and give it a well-rounded perspective so that you can find opportunities for real-world applications. 
• The dissertation is usually the culminating requirement for Ph.D. students, while a portfolio, special project or presentation is common among professional doctorate students. 

Comprehensive exams are also a common requirement to advance to doctoral candidacy status. 

What is the typical cost of attendance for an online doctorate?

Consider that doctorate programs generally require higher financial outlay due to the higher number of credit hours required for completion. There are also factors like the costs of the dissertation, particularly the research-related expenses, and the money spent on meeting technological requirements.

Students usually buy their computers and required accessories, pay for their Internet connection, and shoulder other study-from-home expenses.  

Tuition costs are the most pressing issue when pursuing an online doctorate! Be sure to check the tuition per credit hour and determine its relative affordability in your case. But don’t forget to include the cost of e-books and textbooks, student fees, and other charges that make up the cost of attendance. 

There’s also the matter of tuition fees increasing yearly. Since a doctorate can take three to five years, it’s a substantial monetary investment. Scholarships, grants, and assistantships will lead to significant reductions in the financial burden, so be sure to check out every opportunity. 

In 2022, the average cost of a doctorate varies between $98,800 and $114,300, depending on the type of degree and school. Be aware that post-graduate students have an average student loan debt of $108,400 at the time of their graduation. 

What are your career options with a doctorate?

With your doctorate, you must prove that, indeed, you’re an expert in your field of study! You may or may not call yourself a doctor, but you can put the appropriate abbreviation after your name, such as Ph.D. or EdD. You will find that these abbreviations are a ticket toward a wide range of careers, many of which only professionals with doctorate degrees can follow. 

Your career options include but aren’t limited to the following: 

• Become a tenured or endowed professor in a college or university in your field of study 
• Assume a leadership position in your organization, such as university president, academic dean, or principal 
• Engage in research projects in public and private organizations, such as universities, laboratories,, and think tanks 
• Provide consultancy services to public and private organizations as well as individuals in your field of study 

With your terminal degree, you should be able to forge a career that’s as unique as your educational achievements and professional skills! You also have many opportunities to impact your students, clients, and peers positively, perhaps even change the world. 

What are the specific careers requiring a doctorate?

While only a handful of careers require a Ph.D. or a professional doctorate, these are among the most competitive! Since every applicant possesses a doctorate, the competition may boil down to whoever has the upper hand – and it can be subjective criteria, to boot. 

With that said, here are a few examples of careers where a doctorate is a must. 

• Professors in colleges and universities teach undergraduate and graduate students and conduct their research.
• Hospital directors, particularly those in charge of pharmacies, nursing services, and human resources, have doctorate degrees that complement their work experiences in the wide range of roles they carry out. These include business management, budgeting, and human resource management. 
• Senior research scientists possess the advanced knowledge and skills in research that make them effective and efficient in their jobs. Many works in academic settings and the business sector and industry perform research and development work. The latter may include the design, creation and evaluation of products and processes and the creation of new objects and solutions. 

These are all well-paid positions, too, with career advancement opportunities that individuals with bachelor’s and master’s degrees can only dream of! 

Things to Consider

If you enjoy studying a subject, even when others find it challenging, it’s a pleasure and a privilege! It’s also a point of pride among the small percentage of adults who earn doctorate degrees! The prestige, opportunity for career advancement, and respect from others make the seemingly endless studying worth every minute, too.

For graduates of online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and doctorate programs, the terminal degree is the pinnacle of their academic career! The financial benefits that come with it, particularly the higher median weekly pay ($1,743) and low unemployment rate (1.5%), are the cherry on top. Indeed, education pays, with studies showing that the more you learn, the higher your earnings and the more secure your job can be!

Furthermore, individuals with doctorate degrees are more likely to contribute more to society’s progress, from paying more taxes to more engagement in civic activities. Their effective access to health, housing, and education services also benefit their families, particularly quality of life and educational opportunities. 

Emphasis must be made on the differences between a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and a professional doctorate (e.g., EdD), and these differences will influence your decision. The Ph.D. degree is known as the “research degree” because of its emphasis on the dissertation independent and original research that students complete with the guidance of their faculty advisor.

Graduates of Ph.D. programs usually find employment as professors and researchers in universities, corporations, and think tanks. Professional doctorate degrees are “applied degrees” because their holders apply their knowledge and skills in real-world situations, although participation in research projects is also common.

Like the Ph.D. programs, professional doctorate programs also require student-led research but with another culminating requirement (e.g., a special project or portfolio). 

While every individual with a bachelor’s or master’s degree can pursue a doctorate, not everybody will thrive and benefit from it! You must have an enthusiastic interest in the promotion of advanced knowledge in whatever specific field of study you’re interested in studying.

You must also be willing and able to perform graduate-level academic research to contribute new ideas and findings to the existing body of knowledge.

Your time management skills, overall health, and financial health will also be tested in these easy doctorate degrees and, thus, you must plan and be ready for these challenges. In doing so, your journey toward earning a doctorate becomes easier! 

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Getting a Ph.D. doesn’t always have to be a time-consuming and complex project. If you already have experience in the field, you can shorten the process and get a Ph.D. in just a couple of years. Instead of spending four to seven years completing your studies, you can achieve your Ph.D. goals quickly and begin reaping the benefits.

Not all Ph.D. programs are created equal. Their duration depends on several factors, including the specialization. It may be impossible to speed up some of the program’s aspects but still spend months writing your dissertation.

You can start your journey to getting a degree by exploring accelerated Ph.D. programs online. Let’s take a closer look at options that can suit your goals.

When it comes to selecting a fast Ph.D. program online, keep in mind that anything related to math, science, or medicine is never fast. However, some degrees don’t require as much in-depth study and practice. They are:

• Education – some education doctoral programs may have more flexible requirements and shorter completion times.
• Social Sciences – certain subfields within social sciences, such as sociology or psychology, may have relatively easier admission processes and less competitive programs.
• Business Administration – while a Ph.D. in Business Administration requires dedication, some programs may have more structured curricula and shorter completion times.
• Humanities – history, or philosophy may offer Ph.D. programs that with be easier to complete within just a few years.
• Applied Sciences – certain applied sciences, such as environmental science or public health, may have Ph.D. programs that focus on practical research. They may take less time than other disciplines.

Even the easiest and fastest Ph.D. online requires time and dedication from your side. Some of the accelerated programs are designed to pack five years’ worth of knowledge into three years of studies. This means that you would have to forgo many of your current commitments to accommodate a hectic education process.

What Affects the Duration of a Ph.D. Program?

Besides the field of study, the following factors can affect the duration of your Ph.D. program:

Even the easiest Ph.D. program online could take more time than you expect because of the complexity of the research topic you choose. When making this choice, make sure to speak to your advisors, mentors, and peers about their experience.

Check how much data collection and fieldwork your topic requires.  You could find that your accelerated online Ph.D. program turns into five years of research.

Some online universities have strict program requirements that demand a specific amount of time to complete. Meanwhile, other schools offer more flexibility. When budgeting your time and planning out your studies, pay special attention to the structure. In some cases, you could find opportunities to shorten the program. In others, the framework may not allow you to do so.

Studies show that the time to complete even the fastest Ph.D. online is a combination of funding conditions, publishing during the program, and associated time strategy. Ph.D. funding usually increases the time it takes to complete your studies. If you decide to publish while completing your Ph.D., it can decrease the completion time.

If you have sufficient research funding and decide to publish, you are likely to earn your degree faster. However, unfunded students with high research productivity usually study longer.

Even if you decide to study online, you must receive adequate advisor and research support. Pay special attention to this factor when choosing the program. You can find out how it works at the university of your choice by speaking to the admissions committee or finding reviews from the alumni.

If you can receive regular guidance with quality feedback, you are likely to speed up your education process. In schools where students don’t get dedicated mentor hours regularly, the time to complete the Ph.D. program increases.

Also check what research facilities the school is ready to provide for offline studies (yes, some online programs may require you to visit the campus anyway). Lack of access to proper facilities and materials always slows the studies down.

No matter how hard you prepare for the Ph.D. program, personal circumstances get in the way. Many people find that they can’t juggle their personal and professional commitments with studies as well as they planned. This causes significant delays.

Meanwhile, you should always be thinking about the possibility of unexpected personal circumstances. Thankfully, the majority of easy online Ph.D. programs readily accommodate these needs. They demand that Ph.D. studies be finished within a certain amount of time. However, this time is usually long – around seven or eight years.

Some of the easiest Ph.D. programs online still have strict publication requirements. You can find out that the program requires you to publish your research findings in academic journals or present them at conferences before completion.

This particular program requirement can slow the studies down, especially if the research process is complex.

Overall, it can take between three and seven years to earn your doctorate. No matter how easy or fast the program may seem at first, multiple factors can slow it down. Thankfully, the majority of these factors are known beforehand. It’s up to you to do the research and plan your time.

What Affects the Complexity of a Ph.D. Program?

Even the fastest Ph.D. program online may not be easy. When rushing to earn your degree, you need to pay special attention to the program itself. It may be extremely hard to handle. Factors to consider include:

The interdisciplinary nature of your program can make it complex. If you need to study several fields at once or conduct interdisciplinary research, you may need to make more effort to complete the program. If you haven’t faced such research before, you could need extra time to study. Several methodologies and additional terminology can easily present a challenge.

If your research project requires an in-depth understanding of complex theoretical frameworks, it could slow you down. You would need to master these frameworks and learn how to apply them.

Even the easiest fields of study require extensive data collection. Data collection methods could be complex and time-consuming. For example, if you need to conduct a survey or arrange fieldwork, you would need to make an extra effort outside your study hours.

You may also need to master complex analysis techniques and learn how to leverage advanced software.

If your program requires collaborating with multiple researchers or institutions, you may run into collaboration issues that could increase the complexity of your studies. Projects that bring many people and facilities together always have some time of communication issues that slow down the collaboration process.

Besides simplicity and duration, you need to pay attention to other aspects of online programs including:

• Accreditation – the program you choose must be accredited by an accredited body that employers in your niche recognize.
• Structure – the program should have a structure that allows for accelerated learning.
• Research focus – the program should align with your research goals. This can help you speed up the learning process.
• Support – a program should provide adequate support from the faculty and facilities.
• Credit transfer policies – find out if the program allows you to transfer credits from previous degrees in order to shorten the education process.
• Flexibility – make sure the program is flexible enough to help you keep personal and professional commitments.
• Reputation – take the time to read reviews, talk to alumni, and do online research to assess the university’s reputation.

While the program can be easy and short, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is cheap. Some students believe that online programs are less expensive than offline learning. This is usually not the case. Learn about the cost of the program and explore financial aid opportunities before making the final choice.

Top Easiest and Fastest Ph.D. Programs Online

These programs offer you an opportunity to finish your doctorate studies faster than others. They also have easier curricula than similar programs in other universities.

Chatham University offers several Ph.D. programs in an online format. They can be completed in just 16 months or four terms. These programs include:

• Doctor of Occupational Therapy
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Admissions requirements for these programs may vary, but you would have to provide official transcripts, a resume, and an admissions essay for both of them.

The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Maryville University offers several online Ph.D. programs that you can complete in less than two years. They are:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy
• Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

It’s possible to complete these programs within just 20 months, depending on your time constraints. The school offers convenient financial aid options that can help you pay for the doctorate program.

The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Arizona State University offers strong online degree programs in behavioral health. You can choose one of the two specializations.

• Online Doctor of Behavioral Health – Management
• Online Doctor of Behavioral Health – Clinical

Admissions requirements for these programs include official transcripts from all previously attended places of study, one letter of recommendation, and a CV or resume. The total number of class hours required by this program is 135.

The College of St. Scholastica focuses on online and hybrid learning . Ph.D. programs include:

• Doctorate in Educational Leadership
• Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT)
• Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy

These programs take between two and four years to complete. The admissions requirements vary from program to program. Official transcripts from all previous places of education are necessary for all programs. The school allows you to transfer credits.

The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University offers a wide range of Ph.D. programs online . Many of them take less than 3 years to complete. These doctorate programs include:

• Doctor of Education
• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Doctor of Psychology in Behavioral Health Leadership
• Doctor of Social Work

The school also offers a wide variety of degree acceleration options, including transfer of credits, credit by work experience, and credit by examination. You may be able to complete some of these programs in less than 24 months.

Accelerating Your Ph.D. Studies

Getting a Ph.D. doesn’t have to be a lengthy process. If you have all the information necessary to speed up your education, you can obtain a degree in just one year. Speeding up the process doesn’t mean giving up on the quality of studies. Many accredited and renowned universities are offering fast and easy Ph.D. programs online. They can also help with acceleration opportunities.

If you are ready to get a degree but worry about the time it takes, consider programs that don’t require long years of study. The benefits of short online programs can be just as significant as the advantages of full-time offline learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

The shortest Ph.D. programs take around two years to complete. You can speed up the process even further by transferring credits or asking the school to accept relevant work experience as study credits.

Yes, many universities offer opportunities to complete a Ph.D. program in just two years. Some of these programs are available in a fully online or hybrid format.

A fast Ph.D. program doesn’t lack quality. While some specializations and research topics don’t demand significant time investments, they can be just as beneficial as programs that may take over five years to complete.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

What Is the Easiest Doctorate Degree? [2024 Guide]

What is the easiest doctorate degree?

Sometimes, finding the easiest doctoral degrees comes down to better understanding what each program consists of and the time that will be involved in pursuing them.

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Accelerated PhD programs are also a possibility. Finding the learning option that best fits your schedule can be a strategic way to conveniently earn your doctorate degree.

Another option is finding a university that is more lenient in their required master’s degree GPA needed for a PhD program admission.

What Is the Easiest Doctorate Degree?

Completing a doctorate from any university requires dedication and perseverance. Here are a few program and admissions factors, though, that could make a doctoral degree a little less difficult to obtain:

• Less math required
• Less science required
• No GRE or GMAT requirement
• No dissertation requirement
• No residency requirement
• Online learning options available
• Accelerated courses available (generally lasting 8 weeks each)
• Aligned with your interests and strengths

The easiest PhD to get can also depend on your own interests, skills, and strengths. For example, someone with strengths in English and communication might not consider it easy to obtain a doctorate in chemistry.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

Business Administration

Criminal justice, healthcare administration, human services, public administration, public health, public policy.

Methodology: The following degree programs are offered online by accredited universities. Specific admission requirements vary by university, but a growing number of schools do not require GRE or GMAT scores or dissertations. The degree programs listed below are in alphabetical order.

This is a research-based business program for professionals who wish to take their managerial skills to an advanced level. You can combine corporate experience and relevant research to make impactful administrative decisions.

Business administration courses are usually defined around an overall business development project that looks at business design, methods, tools, and professional ethics. If you are looking to advance your career in business, you might want to consider earning a doctorate in business administration.

Some business professionals with administration expertise pursue senior administrative roles in their professional industry or become involved in making impactful business decisions to help transform companies.

If you are working in the healthcare or social work industry, a doctorate in counseling might appeal to you.

An advantage of this particular type of program is that you can pursue a specification that aligns best with your interests and career goals. For instance, you might study human behavior, social psychology, counseling supervision, or even specific avenues of therapy.

Getting a doctorate degree in counseling can open the door to more advanced career opportunities in the healthcare and social services industries. Some counseling professionals open a private practice while others may work in a hospital, university, or community center.

Following a doctorate in counseling, you can pursue licensure and certification in the field.

If working in the domain of law and order fascinates you, you might consider earning a doctorate in criminal justice.

A criminal justice program can help you develop the necessary skills to conduct your own research and analyze data in a way that influences the justice system. A doctoral program can also give you the chance to explore theoretical elements of the justice field.

Depending on your academic background and your area of specialty within criminal justice, this doctorate can lead to a variety of career paths. Some graduates work within emergency management agencies, forensic departments, information security sectors, and even academia.

If you wish to have a leadership role in the education industry, you might consider pursuing a doctorate of education. This program enables you to enhance your educational research skills and adapt to administrative roles in a variety of sectors.

Professionals in this field may hold senior administrative roles in universities, professional departments, or elementary and secondary institutions. Principals and superintendents are both examples of educational administration roles.

In an education doctoral program, you’ll likely take advanced research courses. Research skills can help you analyze the current educational system and implement changes within academic institutions.

A doctorate in healthcare administration can help prepare you for leadership roles in the business aspect of the medical industry.

This versatile degree involves courses that focus on policies, ethics, group management, hospital administration, finances for healthcare, and advanced patient care.

A healthcare administration doctoral program can enable you to combine holistic knowledge and advanced business strategies. This skill set is directly applicable to helping healthcare institutions run effectively and efficiently.

Professionals in this field may work as health information managers, hospital administrators, clinical or nursing home managers, and other leadership roles within healthcare institutions.

A doctorate in human services can help prepare you for leadership positions within organizations that help those in need. This type of program often has a focus on underserved populations.

Through the coursework, you can gain an advanced understanding of policies, legislation, rights, ethics, and protocols for serving within human services organizations. You can often choose a concentration based on your interests and what population you most wish to serve.

There’s a growing need for people in the industry of social services. Professionals in this field tend to work as social service managers, community service managers, or training and development managers.

Learning practical skills that can be applied to numerous industry settings is at the forefront of a doctorate in management.

You may gain credibility in the eyes of employers through this doctorate program. You’ll likely learn advanced skills in training, research, theory, and practice for leadership in business, education, or government institutions.

In your studies, you’ll typically focus on financial management, system management, conflict management, or human resources management. You can structure your course load according to your interests and career goals.

This doctorate program is quite broad, so it can be applicable to leadership and management roles in nearly any industry, depending on your chosen concentration.

A doctorate in public administration can be tailored to suit your interests and career goals. This type of program can help you develop your managerial and strategic planning skills for administrative roles in a variety of industries.

You can also pick a specific concentration that best aligns with your industry of choice. Public administration coursework tends to look at ethics of management, public policy, strategic planning, performance management, employee evaluation, and the economics of administration.

Common public administration careers include human resources manager, budget analyst, and health services manager.

A doctorate in public health can equip you with advanced training and research skills for the healthcare industry. Some leadership and management roles in the public health industry require innovative thinking and communication mastery.

Your coursework will likely consist of lots of hands-on and practice-based work. You can also choose a specialization that focuses on health education, epidemiology, biostatistics, and more. Some professionals with a doctorate in public health work as medical services managers, professors, medical researchers, or epidemiologists.

A doctorate in public policy focuses on public policy theory, ethics, research, and practice on a community and global scale. You can learn about the development and purpose behind public service programs, and you can learn to analyze and propose policies to improve them.

Coursework often focuses on ethics, legislation, communication development, management principles, and case study evaluation with extensive research. Common public policy careers include political science professor, political scientist, community services manager, and emergency management director.

A doctorate in psychology can develop your research skills in a way that is applicable to professional practice.

The coursework is designed to prepare you for direct professional practice. Some career paths in this field include addictions counselor, applied researcher, professional consultant, and clinical psychologist.

Some of your courses may look at behavioral assessments, child psychology, advanced psychodynamic theory, or ethics and professional development. In addition, you can choose a specialization that aligns with your interests.

Using academics, research, and religious studies, a doctorate in theology explores the divine and spiritual traditions around the world.

Many theology doctorate programs focus mostly on Christianity and the Bible. You may find yourself studying ethics, history, philosophy, literature, or ancient texts during this degree program.

Secular or religious careers in this field can include professor, social service manager, private school teacher, or director of religious education.

Types of Doctorate Degrees

There are a variety of quick doctorate degrees that do not take an extensive amount of time to complete:

• Doctor of Education (EdD) . This professional degree is designed to prepare people for leadership roles in educational institutions. There is a greater focus on the application of research. This type of program can take approximately 3 years to complete.
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) . This scholarly program can help you develop the advanced skills necessary to be a leader in your chosen field of expertise. A PhD is also common for those who are interested in research and academia. Some PhD programs can take around 3 years to complete, though a dissertation requirement may add time.
• Doctor of Theology (ThD) . This degree combines research with religious studies. You can explore spiritual traditions through the study of literature, ancient religious texts, ethics, history, and liturgical practice. Some programs only take 2 years to complete.
• Medical Doctorate (MD) . Earning a medical doctorate from an accredited institution is a requirement to become a licensed physician. You’d study patient ethics, management, and advanced healthcare practices, and you’d engage in research-based study. Some medical doctorates can be completed in 3 years with a residency.
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) . This research-based degree helps prepare you for management and leadership roles in a variety of business industries. Its aim is to train professionals and managers to develop and implement conceptual tools for innovative change within their businesses. It can take a minimum of 2 years to complete this doctorate degree.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) . This is the highest level of academic study for nursing available. A DNP enables nursing professionals to become experts in clinical nursing practice or to work in more focused roles outside of direct patient care. A DNP can take a minimum of 1 year to complete with a placement to follow.

There are many other doctorates available that may better align with your interests and career goals.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

A PhD generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete. Basically, how long it takes to get a doctorate degree will depend on the school and the individual program. It can also depend on the number of credit hours required and how long it takes to complete any dissertation requirement.

Some universities also offer part time PhD programs , which will of course take longer to complete than full time ones.

If no dissertation is required, a doctoral program can generally be completed in 3 years with full-time study. Some online PhD programs also offer accelerated courses to help you complete your degree more quickly.

Can You Get a Doctorate in 2 Years?

While it’s rare to obtain a PhD or doctorate in 2 years, there are some two year doctoral programs available. These programs require a full-time course load and extensive organizational and time management skills.

Some programs emphasize that a minimum of 2 years of study are required. A very few number of doctorate programs take a year of study plus a residency placement. Doctorate degree online no dissertation programs may take less time to complete as well.

If you want to get your doctorate as quickly as possible, you might want to subscribe to a full-time course load and find a reliable mentor to help you through the process. You can also prepare yourself to be completely immersed in academic research and writing.

Are There Any 1 Year Online Doctoral Programs?

If no dissertation is required, a doctoral program can typically be completed in 3 years with full-time study. There are some schools, though, that offer accelerated doctorates so you can try to finish sooner.

In addition, some programs require fewer credit hours overall. A program that consists of 35 credit hours may be completed in 2.5 years or less. Doctorates that consist of 27 credit hours may take 18 months or less.

There are a few rare doctoral programs that can be obtained in 1 year, usually because they require fewer credit hours and also have an accelerated learning option.

Here are some examples of doctorates that can require fewer credit hours:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Doctor of Education
• Doctor of Ministry
• Doctor of Occupational Therapy

It’s strategic to research the scheduling and program requirements of the schools you are interested in.

What Is the Quickest Doctorate Degree to Get?

Doctorate programs can vary between schools and between areas of study. It is sometimes easier to define what the quickest doctoral degree is by highlighting the factors that can make a degree take longer to complete.

For example, many PhD programs require you to write a dissertation. Other programs, such as medical or nursing programs, can require a residency. Some online doctorate degrees with no dissertation require 400 hours or more of practicum experience. These factors can all extend the time spent in a program.

Some of the quickest doctoral programs are ones that have fewer credit hours and do not have dissertation or residency requirements. Being continuously enrolled year-round can also lessen the time it takes for you to complete your studies.

If you’re looking for the shortest doctoral program online, you might want to consider accelerated doctoral degrees. They truly put a focus on the speed, convenience, and advancement of their doctoral students.

Which Subject Is Easy for PhD?

All doctorates take extensive work and dedication, but you may find some programs to be less difficult than others based on your own interests and skill sets.

For example, the following humanities and social science subjects are often perceived as less difficult because they involve less math and science:

• Anthropology
• Communications

In addition, professional doctorates are sometimes perceived as less difficult than PhDs because they are more practice-based and do not tend to require dissertations.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD?

You do not always need a masters to get a PhD. Admissions criteria vary by each university, and some programs, typically bridge or direct-entry programs, admit students with just a bachelors degree.

Schools with bachelor-to-PhD programs generally admit undergraduate students who have an impressive application and a completed bachelors degree. There has been a rise in the number of bachelors-to-PhD programs available, so you may want to research the admissions requirements of the universities that interest you.

What’s the Difference Between a Professional Degree vs. Doctorate?

Here are some contrasting differences between a professional degree and a doctorate degree.

In some cases, a professional degree can still come with the title of doctor.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD vs. Doctorate Degree?

Here are some core differences between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a professional doctorate degree.

Both degree paths can help qualify you for senior or leadership roles in your industry.

Is a Doctorate Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate is worth it for many students. Earning a doctorate degree allows you the opportunity to advance your skill set and expertise in your chosen field. In the process, it can also help qualify you to advance your career.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who earn a PhD or professional doctorate generally earn more than those with lower degrees.

Getting Your Doctorate Degree Online

Earning a doctorate degree online can be a flexible way to adapt terminal studies to your existing schedule. Online programs often allow you to decide how heavy you want your course load to be.

Choosing the ideal online doctorate degree for you depends on your previous work and educational experience, your interests, and your career goals. The convenience of advancing your skill set and specialized expertise online makes online doctoral programs a popular choice for students and professionals alike.

You can start exploring doctorate degrees from accredited universities today to find the ones that best align with your schedule and career goals.

35 Shortest Doctoral Programs Online [Fastest Doctorate & PhD Degrees]

Have you ever dreamed of getting your PhD or doctorate without spending ages in school? We’ve got you covered!

We’ve put together a list of the 35 shortest doctoral programs available online for 2024. This is ideal for those of you looking to fast-track your education.

Online accelerated PhD programs are growing in popularity as students are searching for the shortest PhD programs with the smallest number of requirements.

Online doctoral programs vary widely in their graduation requirements which is why we put together this guide showcasing universities that require less than 60 credits hours to get your online doctorate degree.

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The U.S. Census Bureau reports that lifetime earnings for doctorate degree holders is $900,000 more than those holding a master’s degree only. That’s almost $1 million more!!

And because a doctoral degree is the highest level of academic achievement, you will also receive the accompanying scholarly respect as you make valuable contributions to your field and society as a whole.

Accredited Schools Offering the Shortest Doctoral Program Options

Methodology

For universities to be included in our guide, we looked at a number of criteria including the total number of credit hours required , accreditation, programs offered, and quality of online programs. Each of these universities offer accredited online doctoral and graduate programs. Some universities offer both campus and online programs as noted below.

Completion time can differ for each student, but it’s exciting to note that some accredited schools are now offering doctorate degrees that require fewer than 40 credit hours for completion! This may offer more flexibility and efficiency in your educational journey.

Before you apply, make sure to take a good look at the tuition fees, graduation criteria, and the classes each university offers.

1. Boston University

• Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Online) – 33 to 37 credit hours

Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

2. Colorado Christian University

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 30 credit hours (MSN to DNP)

Colorado Christian University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

3. Concordia University Chicago

• PhD in Leadership – Gerontology (Online) – 30 credit hours
• PhD in Leadership – Health & Human Performance (Online) – 30

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

4. Duquesne University

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 35 credit hours

Duquesne University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

5. Drexel University

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 45 credit hours

Drexel University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

6. East Carolina University

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 36 credit hours

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

7. Frontier Nursing University

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 28 credit hours

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

8. Grand Canyon University

• DNP in Educational Leadership (Online) – 45 credit hours

Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

9. Gwynedd Mercy University

• EdD in Educational Leadership (Online) – 54 credit hours

Gwynedd Mercy University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

10. Hampton University

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 33 credit hours
• PhD in Nursing (Online) – 48 (with Masters)

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

11. Indiana State University

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Campus) – 39 credit hours

Indiana State University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1915.

12. Indiana University of Pennsylvania

• PhD in Safety Sciences (Hybrid) – 54 credit hours
• PhD in Criminology (Campus) – 42

Indiana University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

13. Liberty University

• Doctor of Ministry (Online) – 30 credit hours
• Doctor of Public Administration (Online) – 48
• Doctor of Education (Online) – 54
• Doctor of Strategic Leadership (Online) – 51
• Doctor of Worship Studies (Online) – 45
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 41
• EdD in Community Care Counseling (Online) – 57
• EdD in Educational Leadership (Online) – 54
• PhD in Theology and Apologetics (Online) – 57

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

14. Monmouth University

• EdD in Educational Leadership (Hybrid) – 54

Monmouth University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

15. National University

• DNP in Executive Leadership (Online) – 46 credit hours
• Doctor of Public Administration (Online) – 54
• EdD in Instructional Design (Online) – 54
• Doctor of Criminal Justice (Online) – 54
• Doctor of Education (Online) – 48
• Doctor of Business Administration (Online) – 48

National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

16. Nova Southeastern University

• EdD in Curriculum and Teaching (Hybrid) – 57 credit hours
• EdD in Higher Education Leadership (Hybrid) – 54
• EdD in Human Services Administration (Hybrid) – 54
• EdD in Instructional Technology and Distance Education (Hybrid) – 54
• EdD in Organizational Leadership (Hybrid) – 54
• EdD in Reading Education (Hybrid) – 54
• EdD in Special Education (Hybrid) – 54
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 38-40
• Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Hybrid) – 39

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

17. Penn State World Campus

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 38-46 credit hours(with Masters)

The Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

18. Regent University

• PhD in Communication (Online w/Residency) – 56-64 credit hours
• Doctor of Strategic Communication (Online w/Residency) – 49
• Doctor of Ministry in Christian Leadership & Renewal (Online) – 36

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

19. Seton Hall University

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 73 – 79 credit hours(BSN)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 31 (MSN)
• EdD in K-12 Administration (Campus) – 54 – 57
• Executive EdD in K-12 Administration (Campus) – 54

Seton Hall and its online programs are accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

20. University at Buffalo

• DNP in Child Health Nurse Practitioner (Online) – 36 credit hours
• DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner (Online) – 36
• DNP in Nurse Anesthesia (Online) – 36
• DNP in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Online) – 36
• DNP in Women’s Health Practitioner (Online) – 36
• PhD in Nursing (Online) – 57

The University at Buffalo is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

21. University of Alabama – Huntsville

• PhD in Applied Mathematics (Campus) – 54 credit hours
• PhD in Atmospheric Science (Campus) – 48
• PhD in Biotechnology Science and Engineering (Campus) – 48
• PhD in Physics (Campus) – 48

UAH is officially accredited and/or recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

22. University of Arkansas

• EdD in Educational Leadership (Online) – 42 credit hours

The U of A has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission without interruption since 1924.

23. University of Bridgeport

• EdD in Educational Leadership (Hybrid) – 42 credit hours

The University of Bridgeport is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

24. University of Colorado – Denver

• PhD in Applied Mathematics (Campus) – 42 credit hours

Since 1913, the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA) has accredited all institutions in the CU system.

25. University of Florida

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 75-78 credit hours(BSN to DNP)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 35 (MSN to DNP)
• EdD in Higher Education Administration (Online) – 39

The University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

26. University of Michigan – Flint

• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Executive Leadership (Online) – 43 credit hours

University of Michigan-Flint is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

27. University of Minnesota

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 41 credit hours
• Dozens of PhD programs are also available on campus with less than 50 credit hours required

All campuses of the University of Minnesota operate with the accreditation of the Higher Learning Commission.

28. University of Missouri

• EdD in Educational Leadership (Online) – 46 credit hours
• PhD in Nursing (Online) – 77 credit hours (BSN)
• PhD in Nursing (Online) – 56 (MSN)
• PhD in Nursing (Online) – 48 (Post Clinical)
• DNP in Nursing Leadership and Innovations in Health (Online) – 40

The University of Missouri is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

29. University of Montana

• PhD in Counseling – Counselor Education and Supervision (Campus) – 48 credit hours(with Master’s)

The University of Montana-Missoula is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

30. University of North Carolina – Greensboro

• PhD in Economics (Campus) – 45-57 credit hours

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

31. University of North Dakota

• PhD in Nursing (Online) – 30 credit hours

The University of North Dakota as a whole is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

32. University of Northern Colorado

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 44 credit hours (with Masters)

Since 1916, the University of Northern Colorado has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

33. University of Tennessee – Knoxville

University of Tennessee – Knoxville received accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

34. University of Texas at Tyler

The University of Texas at Tyler is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

35. Wilmington University

• Doctor of Business Administration (Online) – 54 credit hours
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online) – 33
• Doctor in Prevention Science (Online) – 39-48
• EdD in Educational Leadership (Online) – 49-51
• EdD in Higher Education (Online) – 51
• EdD in Organizational Leadership (Online) – 51

Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Popular Online Doctoral Programs

The following doctoral programs have accelerated online courses which can help you finish your doctorate at a faster pace:

• Business Administration
• Counseling & Therapy
• Criminal Justice / Homeland Security
• Healthcare Administration

Human Services

Information systems / technology.

• Ministry / Theology

Public Administration

• Public Health
• Public Policy

By earning an accelerated doctoral program online, you will also be contributing to your field’s body of knowledge, which can be deeply rewarding and satisfying.

Accounting Doctoral Programs

If you enjoy working with numbers and financial concepts, then consider delving deep into that field with a doctorate in accounting. This degree can prepare you for a position as the chief financial officer of an organization, serve as an auditor, teach accounting at the college level, or oversee a team of accountants.

During your studies, you’ll take classes in statistical analysis, financial research methods, and accounting theories. Available concentrations may include Public Accounting and Forensic Accounting.

Another possible option if you’re looking for the shortest completion time is earning a DBA with a concentration in Accounting.

Online Doctorate in Business Administration

A doctorate in business administration is a degree program that will prepare you for leadership at various companies and skillful operation within global markets.

People with a DBA often hold leadership positions in a variety of fields, including for-profit companies, non-profit organizations, and government groups. They can also work in education, whether in an administrative role or as a professor.

In preparation for such positions, coursework may cover topics like quantitative research methods, qualitative research methods, statistics, economics, management theories, and organizational behavior.

As a more exclusive degree than an MBA, a DBA can set you apart and help you land top leadership positions. Plus, the number of courses required is often less, making it one of the shortest doctoral options.

Slightly different than the DBA degree, a PhD in Business Administration is geared more toward academia.

If you’d rather conduct original research and teach students about your specific field in business rather than take on a demanding and rigorous role as a company’s CEO, a PhD in Business might be right up your alley.

Counseling Doctoral Degree Programs

A doctoral degree in counseling or therapy can equip you to help others work through their mental health or interpersonal struggles, and it can prepare you for leadership in a counseling organization.

Professionals in this area often pursue career paths in social work, private practice, and program administration. You may also tailor your education with concentrations like Counselor Education and Supervision, Art Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Addiction Counseling.

Coursework often covers topics like group and individual counseling, trauma response, ethical behavior, and diversity. Some universities require that you already be licensed as a counselor in your state before beginning their programs.

A PhD in Counseling is designed for counselors looking to ramp up their careers by becoming college and university educators, advanced counselors who train and lead others, or primary researchers on innovative studies.

If you’re currently a counselor and training other counselors, or if managing counseling programs are career goals of yours, then a PhD in Counseling online can make those goals a reality.

Criminal Justice & Homeland Security Doctorate Degrees

When you hold a doctorate in criminal justice or homeland security, you may find work in law enforcement, government, or private practice. Your chosen career may provide opportunities to protect your community, conduct investigations, work with criminals, or collect intelligence. Often, doctoral graduates gain leadership positions, such as serving as a chief of police.

In pursuit of your doctoral degree, you may take classes in psychology, emergency and disaster situations, the justice system, and victimology.

Your program may offer concentrations like Terrorism, Criminology, Information Assurance, Security or Emergency Management.

Whether you want to teach in a classroom, serve in school administration, support teachers through an outside organization, or equip the next generation of instructors, a doctoral degree in education can help you achieve those goals.

Many graduates remain in the classroom and take on leadership roles. Others education professionals choose positions such as principals, superintendents, professors, policymakers, curriculum specialists, or educational consultants.

While earning your doctoral degree, you may take classes in curriculum, organizational leadership, student assessment, and education research. You could select an EdD concentration in an area like Special Education, Administration, Curriculum and Instruction, or Early Childhood Education.

A PhD in Education and an EdD are quite similar degrees. Both programs focus on education and prepare you for leadership roles. PhD programs, however, are more research-based.

A PhD is typically more research-based and might be a better match for someone looking for a career in research, publishing, and teaching at the university level. It focuses less on application than an Ed.D., but the same types of careers would be possible with either of these two degrees.

In terms of time to completion, the shortest program option is likely the EdD as there’s often no dissertation required.

People with strong math and money skills are good candidates for pursuing a doctoral degree in finance. Many doctoral graduates take leadership positions with investment firms, large banks, hedge funds, universities, or government agencies. Some earn CEO or other C-suite roles.

A doctorate in finance can even prepare you for an international career. As you study for your degree, your classes may cover subjects like market analysis, global markets, financial planning, theories of finance, taxation, and leadership.

Some students choose to prepare for leadership roles in this field by pursuing a DBA with a concentration in Finance.

Online Doctorate in Healthcare Administration

When you hold a doctoral degree in the field of healthcare administration, you will be well-suited for a leadership position in a healthcare or medical setting. Potential places of employment include hospitals, nursing homes, medical records companies, political think tanks, government agencies, and universities.

Students of this discipline take classes on global health, business, law and policies, finance, and organizational leadership. Many DHA programs offer concentrations like Public Health, Leadership, and Health Policy.

An alternative academic path that is available at some colleges and universities is earning a DBA with a concentration Healthcare Administration which can offer the shortest path to a doctorate when no dissertation is required.

A doctorate in human services can prepare you for a leadership position in an organization or program that provides services or assistance for various groups of people. Work settings may include schools, clinics, community outreach programs, or non-profit organizations.

Some people who pursue this degree are licensed counselors who want to serve in a leadership capacity in a mental health practice. Others desire teaching positions in human services at the university level.

Courses in a doctoral program may include grant writing, leadership, communication, financial management, and ethics. Some of the concentration options are Mental Health, Gerontology, Marriage and Family, and Leadership and Management.

A PhD in Human Services prepares graduates for leadership and as policymakers in the public and human services fields.

A PhD in Human Services is quite flexible. Students with a variety of undergraduate and master’s degrees in public service, including social services, child welfare, criminal justice, and healthcare, may find this degree interesting.

Companies and organizations rely on systems to keep their data and records safe and accessible; to be at the forefront of that field, consider a doctorate in information technology .

With this degree, you might be qualify for work as a C-suite executive, a director in a tech department, a consultant, a leader in a government agency, or a strategist. You might also be well-poised for opening your own company.

Your classes will equip you with knowledge about data collection and analysis, threat and risk management, policy-making, strategic planning, and research.

Management / Leadership Doctorate Degrees

If you want to hold one of the highest roles in an organization, then earning a doctoral degree in management may be in order. Some people who hold this degree become C-suite executives, such as chief operating officers. Others take the helm of school districts or universities, or they accept teaching or research roles in higher education.

To earn this doctorate, you will take classes on leadership, ethics, consulting, decision-making, innovation, and research. Many students pursue concentrations like Technology, Homeland Security, Non-Profit Organizations, or Healthcare.

Alternatively, some schools offer a DBA program with a Management concentration. This often adds more flexibility to the program and can make it the shortest option when compared to the PhD which usually requires a dissertation.

Ministry (D.Min.) or Theology Doctorate Programs

You can take your religious education to the next level with a doctorate in ministry or theology. After earning this degree, you may choose to put your education into practice in church, parachurch, counseling, or chaplaincy positions.

Coursework often helps students grow not only academically, but also spiritually. Topics covered may include leadership, spiritual disciplines, evangelism, social justice, and teaching methods.

Some doctoral candidates pursue a specialization; options may include Counseling, Worship, Chaplaincy, Spiritual Disciplines, and Urban Ministry.

A career as a professor is a possibility with this degree as well as a missionary leader or lead pastor at a church.

Many universities require students to hold professional ministry positions before admitting them into their programs.

Online Doctoral Nursing Programs (Doctor of Nursing Practice)

The top-educated nurses have their doctoral degrees in nursing practice. If you have this degree, you may continue offering direct patient care; for example, you may work as a specialty nurse in a healthcare clinic. You could also use your degree as a care coordinator, a manager of a nursing team, a policymaker, or a nurse educator.

For RNs (Registered Nurses) who want to teach and train other nurses in an academic setting, a PhD in Nursing is the best doctorate-level nursing degree to pursue. A PhD in Nursing also prepares graduates for a career in research as nursing scientists who can contribute to the advancement of knowledge.

Coursework may include classes on information technology, finance, organizational leadership, safety, and healthcare law. Keep in mind that a doctoral degree in nursing is a terminal degree in the field does not qualify for a position as a physician.

DNP programs have gained a lot of popularity over the years and are designed for RNs who seek advancement while remaining practicing nurses.

A DNP prepares graduates for leadership in the nursing industry by advocating for and making policy, managing and directing nursing programs at health facilities, and ensuring that their communities offer the best healthcare to citizens who need it most.

Whether you want to work in a government agency or would prefer a position with a related organization, a doctorate in public administration can help you achieve your goals.

People with this doctoral degree often serve as politicians, lobbyists, non-profit directors, grant writers, administrators, or government affairs directors. If you want to go into government or politics, you could work at the local, state, or national level.

Students in this field study human resources, public policy, budgeting, ethics, organizational leadership, and decision-making.

As a professional doctorate, the DNP may be one of the shortest paths to a doctorate when compared to the PhD which generally requires a lengthy dissertation.

Online PhD in Public Health

Many people who earn a doctoral degree in public health conduct research in the fields of epidemiology, environmental science, clinical trials, or academia.

Others choose leadership roles in public health organizations that work to better the health outcomes for populations or groups of people. For example, you could become a safety engineer, a clinic manager, or an executive of a hospital system.

Classes for this degree program often cover health equity, data analysis, biostatistics, and healthcare policy. Concentrations are available at many universities; options may include Health Education, Leadership and Laboratory Science.

Online PhD in Public Policy

If you want to have a hand in creating or modifying the policies that shape people’s lives and communities, then a doctoral program in public policy can provide the education that you need. Graduates often work for government agencies, universities, think tanks, and various institutions.

Doctoral programs often prepare students through the study of ethics, decision-making, research, leadership, and cultural diversity. Students identify problems, gather valuable data, and create effective solutions.

Doctoral candidates may focus on Urban Policy, Health Policy, Financial Management, or other areas of specialization.

Online Ph.D. in Psychology Programs

A doctoral degree in psychology can help you understand how people think and the influence that thought has on behavior. Many people pursue this degree because they want to work as licensed clinical psychologists in schools, private practices, hospitals, or organizational settings.

The doctoral curriculum often covers counseling theories, psychopathology, culture, motivation and behavior, and cognition.

Programs leading to licensure typically require students to engage in a lengthy supervised practicum.

What is the Difference Between a PhD and Doctorate?

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is just one type of doctorate degree, of which there are many.

Here’s a list of common doctorate degrees:

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
• Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Although the PhD is just one type of doctorate, it does have one distinguishing feature: the dissertation requirement. Nearly every PhD program requires adding to your field’s body of knowledge by performing original research on an approved topic of interest.

So, if you’re looking for fast track doctoral programs, then professional doctorates are generally a better choice.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate?

The length of time it takes to complete your doctorate depends on the university and type of doctoral program.

On average, it takes 3-5 years.

Here are a few things that significantly impact completion time:

• Does the doctorate require a dissertation?
• How many classes can you take at one time?
• Are you transferring any credits into the program?
• How many weeks are classes?
• Is there a residency requirement?
• Is there a professional internship requirement?

As you can see, the best answer we can give you is: it depends.

To give you a ballpark, if you are working toward a professional doctorate (DBA, EdD, PsyD, etc.) and there is no dissertation requirement, you should be able to complete your program in about 2-3 years. Some people may be able to complete the degree in less time, of course. This is simply an average.

For students pursuing Ph.D. programs, the dissertation requirement significantly impacts your completion time. Generally speaking, it takes most doctoral students 3 years to 5 years for degree completion.

What’s the Quickest Way to Earn a Doctorate Degree?

The shortest path to a doctorate varies depending on your background, the program selected, and the university’s requirements.

The time it takes to complete a doctoral program online varies widely by the university. For some universities, 3 year PhD programs are the norm. One common question we hear asked is if there are any 1 year online doctoral programs. For most students, the answer is somewhere in the middle if you already hold a master’s degree.

The official timeline given on most university websites is about 3 – 5 years to complete your degree, but that’s just a general guideline.

If you are looking for the shortest PhD programs, you’ll want to select a program that does not require a dissertation. Dissertations are notorious for taking 2+ years to complete beyond the actual course requirements.

The following doctoral programs often do not always require a dissertation: EdD, PsyD, DBA, DPA, and similar professional degrees. Most PhD programs require a dissertation (which means it’ll take you longer to complete).

Another way to speed up your degree is by enrolling at a university that offers accelerated doctoral courses (8 weeks long). Since the courses take half the time to complete, you can finish your doctoral studies in the shortest possible timeframe.

And finally, you’ll want to pick a program that requires fewer credit hours. For example, one university may require 64 credit hours for an EdD while another may only require 42 credits. When looking for the shortest doctorate programs, you’ll want to examine the credit hour requirements closely. Plus, this is a great way to find the cheapest online PhD, EdD, DBA, and other doctoral programs. Generally, you’ll pay less tuition if you don’t need as many credit hours for program completion.

Are There Any One Year Online Doctoral Programs?

While some schools offer the possibility of finishing a professional doctorate in 12 months to 18 months, most accredited universities generally promote their doctorate programs as taking 3 years or more to complete. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Standard PhD Duration

The usual time frame for completing a PhD is about 3 to 5 years. Occasionally, you might come across a 2-year PhD program, but these are quite rare.

No-Dissertation Degrees

Choosing a program without a dissertation requirement can speed up the process. Typically, no-dissertation doctorates are found in professional fields, such as:

• Other career-focused doctorates

Strategies for Accelerated Completion

• Select an online program with fewer credit hours required.
• Enroll in accelerated courses, often structured as 8-week classes.
• Consider no-dissertation programs
• Look for programs that don’t require a GRE for admission.

Capstone Project as an Alternative

Instead of a traditional dissertation, consider programs offering a capstone project. Capstone projects require research but generally take less time to complete than dissertations.

So, while 1-year online doctorate programs are not commonly available, especially from accredited institutions, the strategies outlined above can help in finding and completing a doctorate program in a significantly shorter time frame than the standard duration.

Do All PhD Programs Require Students to Complete a Dissertation?

An accelerated PhD program usually requires a dissertation, but professional doctorates such as a Doctor of Business Administration or Doctor of Education generally do not require a dissertation. Instead, you complete a capstone project.

We’ve assembled a list of doctorate degrees that don’t require a dissertation here.

What is the Fastest PhD Program Available?

The fastest PhDs available will be those that require 30 credit hours or less to complete. As noted in the guide, we selected a number of fast PhD programs which meet this requirement. Once you’ve selected a PhD that requires fewer credit hours than the norm, try to narrow your list further by selecting a university with accelerated PhD classes which generally only take 8 weeks to complete.

If you don’t absolutely have to have a PhD, you will likely find it easier to locate a professional doctorate program that meets all of these criteria with the added benefit of no dissertation requirement. For example, it will likely take you longer to complete a PhD in Business Administration with 36 credit hours and a dissertation than it will to complete a Doctor of Business Administration of the same length without the dissertation requirement.

If speed is the most important factor for you, than a professional or applied doctorate such as an online Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Psychology, or Doctorate of Education will likely be the fastest online doctorate you can find.

Looking For the Fastest Doctorate Programs?

Whether you’re trying to get your doctorate in one year or you’re just looking for the fastest doctorate degrees available from accredited universities, the first step is decide how much you’re willing to compromise in the name of speed.

Yes, there are accredited online doctoral programs that can be completed in less time than traditional campus-based programs. The key is finding the shortest doctoral program that’s offering the exact program you’re seeking.

In your search for efficiency, focusing on programs with short completion times and fewer course requirements can be a strategic choice.

This guide is a good place to start:

• We only included accredited universities with the shortest doctoral and Ph.D. requirements (measured by the smallest number of classes required)
• Accelerated doctorate courses are available online
• A growing number of online doctoral degree programs don’t require a dissertation (especially professional doctorate degree programs)

Choosing a fast-track online Ph.D. or doctorate program with minimal required courses, accelerated online classes, and no dissertation requirements could be a smart move towards achieving your academic goals more efficiently.

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Easy Accredited Online Ph.D Programs

What is the benefit of easy phd programs.

Enroll in one of our top easy accredited online Ph.D. programs . Don’t let the “doctor” in our title intimidate you!

Less than 2% of the U.S. population has earned a doctoral degree. By taking your education as far as possible, you’ll distinguish yourself from millions of Americans. And with a flexible, online, easy PhD, you don’t need to put your life on pause to gain the credential of a doctorate degree.

Featured Programs

Online doctoral programs are ideal for students deeply invested in their academic studies. Beyond satisfying your own intellectual itch, your doctoral research can forever change the way people think about your field. 

From a money standpoint, advancing your education is a wise investment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that weekly earnings rise the higher your education level. It found that, on average, workers with doctoral degrees make 30% more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.

See Also: Easy Online Master’s Degree Programs

What’s the Difference Between a Ph.D. and a Professional Doctorate?

Before we look at the top easy accredited online Ph.D. programs, it’s important to know the difference between a Doctor of Philosophy and a professional doctorate.

In short, these programs differ in their research expectations. Ph.D. programs require a dissertation. They are designed for those who want to teach at a four-year university. A dissertation is a large research project that focuses on a big idea in your field. 

Professional doctorates are ideal for those who want to advance their careers. Doctorates are available in business, education, and nursing. This is just a few examples, though.

In a professional doctorate, you might focus more on applied research. Usually, you’ll do a capstone project to offer a solution to a problem within your organization, for example.

See Also: Top 15 Accredited Online PhD Programs

Can I Really Earn a Doctoral Degree Online?

Yes, you can get a doctorate degree online! That’s why we have this ranking of the easiest PhD programs.

Fully online doctoral degree programs exist. However, for most programs, expect a few in-person requirements.

If you are considering a doctorate degree, you may consider online doctorate degrees. Online doctoral degree programs are a flexible and convenient way to further your education.

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

What Are the Best Online Doctoral Degrees?

You want to know about online doctoral degree programs. You’re in the right place to learn about the easiest PhD to get!

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. Each program is scored individually. It’s then compared to all other universities offering that degree. This is done to determine the final score you see by each ranking.

Accredited Online College considers many factors. This includes the affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more about our online programs, visit our methodology page. 

Narrow down your school search with these easiest online PhD programs!

1. capella university.

Some universities focus more on undergraduate studies.But more than 60% of Capella University students are earning graduate-level degrees. This fully online institution has 18 online doctoral degrees . These degrees include social work, human services, business, and education. 

Capella has both Ph.D. and professional doctorate programs . For example, you can choose between a Ph.D. in business management or a Doctor of Business Administration. In both doctoral programs, you are assigned a faculty mentor. This mentor will guide you through your studies and help with your dissertation or capstone project.

Capella’s programs are already affordable. However, if you get a doctorate degree in behavior analysis, business or psychology, you might be able to eligible for a $20,000 scholarship. The Capella Progress Reward is a scholarship granted to new students in these programs. You must show good academic standing and pass your first course on the first try to qualify.

This is a great chance to pursue one the easy doctorate degrees while saving money.

Online DBA program focuses:

• DBA in General Management
• DBA in Organizational Leadership and Development
• DBA in Strategy and Innovation

Examples of the PhD programs:

• PhD Psychology
• PhD Counselor Education and Supervision
• PhD Business Management

Learn more about the easiest doctorate at Capella University here .

2. Walden University

Walden University’s mission is to provide working professionals with a flexible pathway to a Ph.D. Today, Walden offers 25 online doctoral degrees. There are Ph.D. and professional doctorate programs. You can choose from areas like psychology, public health, and social work. 

At Walden, you’ll connect with a peer mentor. This mentor is a fellow doctoral student. They will be further along in their studies than you. This support is in addition to your dedicated faculty mentor.

Walden’s student support system is also designed with its online learners’ families in mind. The university chooses kid-friendly locations , like Orlando, for its doctoral residencies. They recognize that many students need to bring their families with them for any in-person requirements. As an easiest doctorate degree, you might have time to enjoy with your family, too.

If you are curious about the dissertation process, check out more here .

Examples of doctorate program:

• PhD Developmental Psychology
• PhD Education
• PhD Forensic Psychology
• PhD Nursing
• Doctor of Nursing Practice

Learn more about doctoral programs at Walden University here .

3. University of Florida

U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Florida at No. 34 on its Best National Universities. It is also at No. 7 on its Top Public Schools.

UF is one of the most well-respected universities in the country. Its distance learning classes create more access to the Gators’ leading academic programs.

UF offers six online doctoral degrees . They are in education, nursing, and pharmacy. It has two additional online doctoral options within its Department of Classics. These focus on classical civilizations and Latin and Roman studies. 

At UF, educators can earn a Doctor of Education in educational leadership. You can also choose higher education or educational technology. An additional specialization allows you to examine the role of teachers and schools in society. Doing so allows you to use your research to address a specific problem within your school. If you are considering a doctorate degree online UF is a solid choice.

Doctorate Degree Programs include:

• Classic Civilization
• Computer Science Education
• Nursing Practice
• Teachers, School and Society

Learn more about doctoral programs at University of Florida here .

4. Liberty University

Liberty University is not new to distance learning. In the 1980s, this faith-based university started expanding the reach of its Lynchburg campus. It did so through mailed correspondence courses. Today, it offers more than 400 online degree programs . Well done, internet!

Liberty has more than 20 online doctoral programs. Many of these programs have several options.

For example, Liberty’s Doctor of Business Administration includes 14 specializations. They range from international business to real estate development.

Some of Liberty’s online doctorates can be earned entirely online. Any in-person requirements are done through on-campus visits. These visits are offered several times throughout the year. This is to accommodate students’ schedules. Coursework is divided into 8-week units. Liberty’s programs have eight start dates throughout the year.

Liberty’s mission is to train “Champions for Christ.” As such, this university has several faith-based programs. There is a Doctor of Ministry. There is also a Doctor of Worship Studies. You can get a Ph.D. in theology and apologetics. A doctorate degree online from LU is definitely one to consider.

Doctorate Degree Programs that can be completed online include:

• DMin (Doctor of Ministry)
• EdD (Doctor of Education
• PhD Criminal Justice

Learn more about doctoral programs at Liberty University here .

5. University of North Dakota

Based in Grand Forks, the University of North Dakota is the state’s largest institution of higher education. It is also the only school in North Dakota offering graduate-level degrees in law and medicine.

But you don’t need to live in North Dakota to benefit from this university’s reputable degree programs . Ten of UND’s doctoral programs are available online.

Currently, UND ranks at No. 128 on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. This university has really set itself apart in engineering, aviation, and medicine. Interested engineering students have several options in online doctoral programs at UND. Here, you can choose to pursue a doctorate degree such as:

• environmental
• petroleum engineering

UND also offers online doctoral programs in aerospace sciences, education, and nursing. 

All of UND’s doctoral degrees require 90 credit hours. However, the time it takes to complete each program differs. This ranges from three to seven years. A doctorate degree online from UND offers a range of possibilities!

Learn more about online doctorate programs at University of North Dakota here .

6. Northcentral University

As a doctoral student, you’ll want guidance from someone who has done the same academic journey. All of Northcentral University’s faculty have earned a doctoral degree. Furthermore, you’ll be in the majority. As an online graduate student at NCU, you’ll join 95% of students that are pursuing an advanced degree.

Northcentral has more than 20 online doctoral degrees in disciplines like:

• education programs
• criminal justice

NCU employs a one-to-one learning model.

Here, you’ll get individualized support. In each course, you’ll be paired with a professor in a “class size of one.” Your professor gives personalized feedback as you work through each topic. They also work with you on your dissertation.

NCU’s cost-effective doctoral program tuition rates can be further reduced with its “2020 Vision” scholarship. The university awards six full-tuition scholarships to students with the best essays. These essays describe how their degrees will help them achieve a lifelong goal.

If you are considering a doctorate degree, you may decide to apply for that scholarship. Financial aid is a great way to reduce the cost of doctoral programs.

Learn more about the online doctorate programs at Northcentral University here.

7. East Carolina University

When looking at your doctorate degree, you can become an ECU Pirate. ECU is located in Greenville, North Carolina. It’s just a short drive from the ocean. It has a national reputation as the No. 109 school on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. ECU is also one of North Carolina’s top producers of nurses and educators. 

At ECU, you can choose between four online doctoral programs. The online Doctor of Education offers two specializations. They are in higher education and Pre-K through 12th grade.

Candidates in the Doctor of Public Health program can focus on either environmental and occupational health or health policy, administration, and leadership.

Lastly, nurses can advance their education with either a professional doctorate, the Doctor of Nursing Practice, or the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing. 

The online distance learning format makes it easy to complete doctorate degrees anywhere.

Learn more about online doctorate programs at East Carolina University here .

8. University of Missouri

If your goal is to earn a Ph.D. without taking on student loans, the University of Missouri might be the school for you. Nearly half (48%) of Mizzou’s students graduate debt-free.

Not only is this university affordable for a doctorate degree, but it ranks at No. 64 on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. 

More than 16,000 students enroll in Mizzou’s online courses . Mizzou Online offers ten online doctoral programs. Most of these doctorate degrees are from the Sinclair of Nursing. Nurses can earn either a Ph.D. or a professional doctorate in nursing. The Doctor of Nursing Program has five specializations. This includes pediatric nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology, and family nurse practitioner. 

Educators have two online doctorate choices in education programs at Mizzou. There is either a Ph.D. in art education or a Doctor of Education in educational leadership. Mizzou also has a Ph.D. in agricultural education and leadership and a Ph.D. in architectural studies. That’s a lot of doctorate degrees from which to choose!

Learn more about online doctorate programs at University of Missouri here .

9. Indiana State University

Indiana State University is based in Terre Haute, Indiana. This school is all about applied learning. All of its programs require experiential learning. This is part of ISU’s vision to be a leader in hands-on education. 

So, while you can earn six of Indiana State’s doctoral degrees online , you can also expect in-person requirements in each program. These on-campus meetings guarantee that you know how to put the knowledge you gain in the classroom to work. 

At ISU, health professionals can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a Doctor of Health Sciences. Educators can pursue a Ph.D. in higher education leadership or school administration.

You can also pursue a Ph.D. in technology management or a Doctor of Athletic Training. Indiana State’s DAT is the only program of its kind to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. 

Learn more about online doctorate programs at Indiana State University here .

10. University of Arkansas

Become a University of Arkansas Razorback!

Arkansas holds the No. 72 spot on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. The University of Arkansas also has the highest classification awarded by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. For this award, Carnegie takes into account the quality of a university’s doctoral programs. It also considers the number of research grants it receives and the productivity of its scholars. 

The U of A has four online doctoral programs. Its Doctor of Education offers three tracks. These are in adult and lifelong learning, educational leadership, and human resources and workforce development education. Lastly, the U of A has a Doctor of Nursing Practice among its doctorate degrees. 

All doctorate degree programs are in the same academic departments that serve on-campus students. This means you’ll have the same access to faculty as on-campus students. 

Check out the doctor of nursing practice information here .

Learn more about accredited online PhD programs at University of Arkansas here .

11. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is based in Phoenix, Arizona. GCU is a Christian institution with more than 60,000 online learners. A growing percentage of these students are pursuing graduate-level degrees. Currently, about half (47%) are graduate students. 

GCU offers five online Ph.D. programs , all in psychology. You can focus on:

• Performance psychology
• Cognitive psychology
• Industrial/organizational psychology

You can also specialize in counselor education or technology, learning, and psychology. All of these doctorate degree programs emphasize research. You begin working on your dissertations in your first course.

A series of courses will keep you on track to complete your dissertation. This helps you with steps in the process like developing a proposal and gathering data for your research. 

Learn more about the doctoral degree program at Grand Canyon University here .

12. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. NSU’s nickname is the Sharks. It also has a Ph.D. program in oceanography and marine biology. So, at NSU, you can both become a Shark and study sharks!

On top of this unique doctoral program, NSU has more than 16 online doctoral programs . These online doctoral programs include many academic disciplines. Examples are:

• Criminal justice
• Occupational therapy
• Cybersecurity management
• Speech-language pathology

By enrolling at NSU, you’ll have access to the university’s Center for Collaborative Research. Besides providing state-of-the-art equipment, this facility supports interdisciplinary discoveries. NSU’s faculty and students are currently working on more than 200 projects. They are researching solutions to issues like coral reef deterioration. Other research is on chronic fatigue syndrome and cardiovascular disease.  

Other Online Doctorate Degrees include:

• computer science
• health sciences
• information systems

Learn more about online doctoral degree program at Nova Southeastern University here .

13. California Intercontinental University

California Intercontinental University is an online university. It is located in Irvine. The school is committed to graduating business leaders. At the doctoral level, CIU has just one doctoral program. It’s a doctorate of business administration. If you are considering an online doctorate program in business, CIU might have what you need.

You might consider this program if you want to improve your organization through scholarly research. Likewise, you can become a thought leader in global economics, e-commerce, or consumer behavior. CIU’s graduates have gone on to work at Fortune 500 companies. Many others have started their own businesses.

CIU’s DBA candidates choose between four specializations:

• Global business and leadership
• Entrepreneurship and business management
• Healthcare management and leadership
• Information systems and enterprise resource management.

The DBA program requires 60 credits. You’ll write a dissertation as your final project. You’ll also take a comprehensive exam. This is done to ensure a firm grasp of the material covered in your courses.

Learn more about the doctoral degree program at California Intercontinental University here .

14. Colorado State University

Colorado State University is the No. 79 university on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. Colorado State also boasts the title of the nation’s most sustainable campus. Nearly all (90%) of CSU’s departments are conducting sustainability-related research.  

CSU Online offers three doctoral degrees. It has both a Doctor of Engineering and a Ph.D. program in systems engineering. These highly competitive programs attract senior managers or executives. You’ll examine complex systems and discover innovative solutions to improve how they work.

Candidates come from diverse engineering experience. Students might have experience in aerospace, clean energy, or the automotive industry. 

CSU also has an online doctorate program in higher education. This program is for students who aim to teach at a college or university. 

Learn more about a doctorate degree from Colorado State University here .

15. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus has served the U.S. armed forces for more than 70 years. UMGC has locations across the state of Maryland. They are also at more than 140 military bases across the globe. 

UMGC offers two online doctoral degrees . Its Doctor of Business Administration is a 48-credit-hour program. The program is geared toward executive-level professionals. This degree finishes with a dissertation. There are required courses in data analytics and evidence-based research as well.

UMGC also has a Doctor of Management in community college policy and administration. This online doctorate is designed for those who want to successfully lead a community college. You will conduct research that will improve institutional operations across the country in this program. 

Both of UMGC’s doctoral degree programs utilize a cohort model. You’ll start and finish the online doctorate program with the same group of students.

Learn more about online doctorate degrees at University of Maryland University College here.

16. Trident University

Trident University International is based in Cypress, California. It is a 100% online institution.

The university is dedicated to adult learners. Most of Trident’s students are over the age of 30. A third of its doctoral students are over 50 years old.

Trident also has a long history of enrolling U.S. service members. Nearly half of its students are active-duty or veterans. 

At Trident, you can work on either a Ph.D. or a professional doctorate . These degree programs are in three areas:

• Business administration
• Educational leadership
• Health services

All of these programs can be earned entirely online. There are no in-person visits. 

As a Trident student, you’ll complete about nine to 12 self-paced courses to graduate. Trident’s Career Services Center is available to help you. They will assist you with applying for jobs that fit your new credentials.  

Learn more about a doctorate degree at Trident University International here .

17. University of Tennessee is in Knoxville

Become a Tennessee Volunteer by enrolling at the state’s flagship university.

The University of Tennessee is in Knoxville. UT ranks at No. 44 on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools. Through Vols Online, you can get a doctoral degree without stepping foot in the Volunteer State. 

The doctoral programs offered through Vols Online center include many disciplines. For example, you can get a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a Ph.D. in nursing online. Or you might choose to take on a Doctor of Social Work.

UT’s DSW program is designed for practicing clinical social workers. The program has flexible asynchronous online coursework. There are also real-time, interactive videos. This helps professionals like you to advance your education while continuing to help your clients. 

Lastly, UT has an online Ph.D. program in industrial and systems engineering. This degree program has an optional engineering management concentration.

Learn more about a doctorate degree at University of Tennessee – Knoxville here .

18. Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago started in 1864. It began as a teacher’s college. The university is grounded in the Lutheran faith.

This private school has now expanded to disciplines beyond education. Although its academic opportunities have grown, CUC has remained small in size. It enrolls under 5,000 graduate students. There is an 11:1 graduate student-to-faculty ratio. 

CUC has three options for online doctoral candidates. You can earn a Doctor of Business Administration in as little as three years. This 60-credit-hour program has four specializations:

• Health care
• Human resources

At CUC, educators can earn either a Doctor of Education or a Ph.D. Several specializations are available. This includes curriculum and instruction, literacy, and special education.

Dissertations can make the length of doctoral programs somewhat hard to predict. CUC guarantees that your tuition will not increase during your course of study, though. You simply have to maintain continuous enrollment in your degree program. 

Learn more about this online doctorate degree program at Concordia University Chicago here .

19. Lamar University

Lamar University is based in Beaumont, Texas. It’s a public university. It’s also part of the Texas State University System.

Lamar’s “Cardinal” community is quickly growing. Today, it serves more than 15,000 students. Roughly a third of these students are pursuing graduate-level degrees. 

Through LU Online, you can be part of one doctoral program – a Doctor of Education in educational leadership.

This 60-credit-hour program is meant for candidates who want to reach the highest administrative levels in their schools. Lamar’s Ed.D. program has a global focus. Required courses cover educational ethics, values, and leadership strategies from around the world.  

All faculty members in LU’s department of educational leadership have earned an Ed.D. or Ph.D. This ensures that you learn from experts with terminal degrees in the field throughout your degree program.  

Learn more about online learning at Lamar University here .

20. Keiser University

Keiser University is based in Fort Lauderdale. It also has locations across Florida

The university has more than ten online doctoral degrees. Keiser is focused on adult learners who continue to work as they study in their degree programs. More than 75% of its students work full- or part-time while enrolled in their degree programs. 

At Keiser, you’ll complete coursework that is designed by more than leaders in academia. Keiser maintains advisory boards with professional experts. Statewide community leaders are involved, too. This ensures that the school’s standards are informed by the industry’s specific needs and competencies.

Keiser’s doctoral degrees span academic disciplines. You can pursue a degree program in business or education. Psychology and nursing are other options. This university even offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Spanish. This kind of program gives you the chance to gain advanced business knowledge in your first or preferred language.

Additionally, unique among Keiser’s programs is a Doctor of Chiropractic. Though coursework is administered online, this degree program does require in-person clinical training. 

Learn more about the doctorate degree at Keiser University here .

21. Pittsburg State University

Based in Pittsburg, Kansas, Pittsburg State University’s mascot is Gus the Gorilla. Beyond its standout nickname, Pitt State boasts a unique flat-rate tuition. Here, you won’t pay more for taking more credit hours. Instead, full-time graduate students who are enrolled in at least nine credit hours pay a single tuition rate. 

Pitt State started as a teacher’s college. It has a long tradition in educational studies.

Doctoral students have one doctorate degree online option at this university. That degree program is an Educational Specialist degree in advanced studies in leadership. 

While there aren’t multiple degree programs, you still get variety. Pitt State’s EdS candidates can either pursue specializations in elementary or secondary school administration. Special education is also an option.

This degree’s 36-credit-hour curriculum builds on your master’s degree coursework. It also might serve as a stepping stone to a Doctor of Education.

Learn more about the doctorate degree at Pittsburg State University here .

22. Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University is near Toledo. It holds the No. 119 spot on U.S. News & World Report ’s Top Public Schools.

BGSU offers one online doctoral degree program. That program is in technology management. If this is your field of choice, you’ll be impressed to learn that among BGSU’s alumni is Shantanu Narayen, the president and CEO of Adobe Inc. 

BGSU’s Ph.D. program in technology management is a five-for-one deal. It is administered in collaboration with Indiana State University, the University of Central Missouri, East Carolina University, and North Carolina A&T State University. 

This Ph.D. program attracts highly motivated professionals with significant work experience. As a candidate, you can choose to specialize in five areas:

• construction management
• digital communications
• human resource development
• manufacturing systems
• quality systems

In addition to the required research and core technology courses, you’ll complete nine hours of professional studies. Online students might need to include an internship, too.

Learn more about the doctorate degree at Bowling Green State University here .

23. Johnson University

Johnson University is a Christian school. It has campuses in Knoxville, Tennessee and Kissimmee, Florida.

Johnson has one online Ph.D. program in leadership studies. This program is in the university’s Center for Global Studies. This department is led by board members from several Christian universities.

Johnson’s Ph.D. in leadership studies requires 60 credit hours. The curriculum is divided into course requirements in:

Additionally, you will study a chosen specialization. There are three concentrations available in educational leadership. You can choose among organizational leadership, the philosophy and theology of leadership, and missional leadership.  

Coursework is completed entirely online. Your work is done in an asynchronous format. Classes last seven weeks. You get a one-week break before focusing on a new topic. Research summits provide you with opportunities to network with peers and professors in person.

This Ph.D. takes full-time students four years to earn or seven years for part-time students.

Learn more about the doctoral program at Johnson University here.

24. Hampton University

Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a historically black university. It is located near Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay.

Enrolling just over 4,000 students, Hampton has ten colleges. Most of its students pursue degrees in liberal arts, education, science, and business. 

Hampton U Online expands the reach of this university. There are several fully online degree programs. Doctoral students can earn a Ph.D. in business administration. This requires 61 credit hours in online coursework. It also includes summer on-campus residencies.

For educators, Hampton offers a Ph.D. in educational management. There are counselor education and supervision options, too. You can also choose to earn an educational specialist in counseling. 

Lastly, Hampton has a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program. This degree requires 33 credit hours and 500 clinical hours. Classes are delivered online. However, you can expect three in-person residencies. 

Learn more about this doctorate degree at Hampton University here .

25. Maryville University of St. Louis

Maryville University is near St. Louis, MO. It enrolls just over 10,000 students. More than half of students study online.

This university is focused on the jobs of tomorrow. It partners with companies like Boeing and Edward Jones. Doing so allows Maryville to predict jobs that currently don’t exist so it can design the educational programs for future leaders.

Currently, online students can earn two doctoral degrees through Maryville’s online portal.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice is a robust program with six specializations. These focus areas include pediatrics, gerontology, and psychiatric mental health. As a DNP candidate, you’ll complete coursework online. Your clinical training is done at an approved site near your home. Maryville’s DNP can be earned in as little as 20 months. 

Maryville also has a Doctor of Education in higher education. This cohort program for this doctorate degree takes as few as 32 months and can be earned entirely online. 

Learn more this doctorate degree at Maryville University of St. Louis here .

26. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina is the highest-ranked university on this list. U.S News & World Report ranks it at No. 5 on its list of the Top Public Schools. It also ranks No. 29 in National Universities.

This school has an impressive 13:1 student to faculty ratio. This proves it continues to provide students with personalized attention.

UNC has one online doctoral degree option. That program is a transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy, or tDPT.  This program is in the School of Medicine’s Department of Allied Health Sciences. It is geared toward licensed physical therapists who want to teach in a clinical or academic setting.

This is a two-year, part-time degree. It’s designed to allow therapists to continue their practices. As a tDPT candidate, you’ll take 12 courses and complete a case study capstone project. 

Learn more about a doctorate degree from University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill here .

27. Faulkner University

Faulkner University is in Montgomery, AL. It is a Christian, liberal arts university. It has just over 3,000 students.

Faulkner’s online doctoral degrees reflect the university’s two main priorities. Here, you can earn a Ph.D. in biblical studies or humanities.

The Ph.D. in biblical studies is a four- to five-year program. It is delivered entirely online. As a candidate, you’ll not only delve into the books of the Bible, but you’ll also learn to read them in another language. Students must prove proficiency in either Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek.

Faulkner’s Ph.D. in the humanities focuses on an advanced understanding of the philosophy and history of learning. This fully-online program takes three to five years to finish. It is also highly customizable. You can choose to focus your dissertation on an author, an idea, or even a historical era.  

Learn more about online learning at Faulkner University here .

28. Regis University

Regis University is located in Denver, CO. It’s a Jesuit Catholic university. This Catholic order’s motto is “men and women in service of others.” As a result, you’ll find a strong tradition of service-learning at Regis. 

Fittingly, Regis’ sole fully online doctoral degree program is in nursing. Regis’ Doctor of Nursing Practice offers two tracks. There is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or an advanced leadership in health care specialization. 

Regis’ DNP takes either two or three years to earn. Classes for a doctorate degree are organized into 8-week units. The program ends with a capstone project. This project helps to better your nursing practice.

Candidates typically choose to focus this final project on a problem within their organizations. You might use your research to determine a solution and offer steps to initiate it.

Students pursuing doctorate degrees should check out Regis University here .

29. University of the Southwest

The University of the Southwest is based in Hobbs, New Mexico. It is a non-denominational Christian university. Its mission is to “mold the next generation of leaders through Christ-centered values.” All of USW’s graduate programs are delivered online. 

Here, you can get a Doctor of Business Administration. You get a free laptop. All course material is covered by your tuition costs as well.

USW’s DBA is a three-year, part-time program. There are no in-person residencies. You can focus on strategy and innovation. Likewise, you can study leadership and organizational development.

Alternatively, you can choose a self-design track. If you do, you’ll work with your dissertation committee to tailor your studies to your specific career goals. 

Learn more about a doctorate degree at University of the Southwest here.

30. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina has the No. 44 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Schools. Additionally, it has one of the most unique college mascots: Cocky the fighting gamecock. 

USC’s online programs apply the same rigorous academic standards as their on-campus counterparts. Online learners can pursue more than five flexible doctoral programs.

Teachers dreaming of adding “doctor” to their titles can pursue a 100% online Doctor of Education. This Ed.D. focuses on curriculum and instruction. You can further specialize your studies in educational technology, STEM education, or curriculum studies. The curriculum studies concentration focuses on social justice issues within education. You will learn how to create more educational equity across socio-economic backgrounds.

USC also has several options to complete doctoral-level coursework online in its College of Engineering and Computing. Ph.D. programs in areas like computer science and nuclear engineering incorporate online components. However, in-person residencies should also be expected.

Learn more about a doctorate degree at University of South Carolina here .

Doctoral Program: Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important for a school to be accredited.

A doctoral degree takes time and determination. Before you begin, you want to guarantee the value of your efforts. Accreditation does just that. It lets you rest assured that you are receiving a quality education from a reputable university. 

There are two types of accreditation in higher education: institutional and programmatic. Agencies like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education ensure that schools within their regions are meeting higher educational standards across all programs. Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission ( SACSCOC ) accredits degrees for higher education in the southern states.

Professional associations, like the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association or the Council on Social Work Education , provide accreditation to specific academic programs. These ensure that a program’s curriculum is based on the core competencies that are needed in that line of work. 

When looking at PhD programs, check for accreditation.

What types of jobs does a Doctoral degree lead to?

In most cases, a Doctor of Philosophy, or a Ph.D., is required to teach at a four-year college or university. If you dream of being a professor, you’ll need a doctorate in your field. 

Keep in mind, academia does not work like Corporate America where employees are often promoted from within. Departments do not typically hire their own Ph.D. candidates after graduation. This might make pursuing your degree online even more attractive. You then won’t need to move for your program and then move again for your job.

Teaching or conducting research at a university, however, is not the only goal among doctoral candidates. If you want to work as a clinical psychologist, you’ll likely need a doctorate. A doctorate degree can also help you reach the highest leadership roles in healthcare or education systems, working as a chief health officer or chief academic officer, for example.

Bottom line: as a doctoral candidate your goal will be to advance knowledge in your field. This degree might not be a requirement for reaching the next step in your career. But by becoming a thought leader in your industry, it will undoubtedly help.

And regardless of which easiest doctoral degree you pursue, you can likely find many different places to work.

What’s a professional degree?

When you hear “doctoral degree,” you might first think of a medical doctor. Yes, doctors earn a Doctor of Medicine, but this degree is often referred to as a professional degree. Other professional degrees include lawyer, which requires a Juris Doctorate, and dentist, which requires a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry. 

How long does a Doctoral program last?

Your program might only take three years, but it also might take seven. The time it takes to graduate will depend on what you choose to study and your educational background.

Some Ph.D. programs admit students with only a bachelor’s degree. These programs often take longer to complete because you’ll earn your master’s along the way. If you already have a master’s degree, you might graduate faster, as long as your credits are transferable. 

Of course, the length of your program also depends on how long it takes you to finish your dissertation or capstone project. Many online programs incorporate research-focused courses to keep your dissertation on track. These classes cover steps in the process, like how to choose a topic, conduct a literature review, or submit to scholarly publications.

Do all Doctoral programs require a dissertation?

No, professional doctorate programs do not always require a dissertation.

Dissertations often focus on your field’s big picture ideas, or theories. You might decide to develop an applied research project instead.

For example, if you are earning a Doctor of Education because you want to lead your school district, you might choose to create a data-led solution to a problem currently faced by the district. 

If you’re wondering, “what is the easiest doctorate degree?”, one without a dissertation is a good place to start.

These universities all look great. How do I narrow my choices?

If you’re interested in earning a doctoral degree , you likely already have a research topic in mind. You’ll want to find a faculty mentor who is an expert on this topic. Not only will this provide you with a worthy guide, but it will also save you time.

Your research will require a survey of current literature on your topic, and a knowledgeable faculty mentor can help jumpstart this step in the process. 

It’s important not to just consider “what is the easiest PhD to get.” Instead, find your passion, too. If you’re interested in what you’re studying, the learning will be much easier!

Continue your school search with these rankings:

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, then you should check out our Top 30 Fastest Accredited Online Graduate Colleges and the Ten Best Nationally Accredited Online Colleges !

The 20 Easiest Online Doctorate Degrees 2023

Find your perfect school.

If you earned an online doctorate degree from an accredited college or university, can you call yourself a “doctor”? Yes, you can, and it’s an honor that you can be proud of, too, considering how online doctorate students shed their blood, sweat, and tears! 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says doctoral degrees earn $1,885/week and experience a 2.5% unemployment rate. In contrast, workers with master’s degrees earn $1,305/week (or a $580/week difference) and experience a 4.1% unemployment rate.

Quick Summarization: What exactly are online doctoral programs, a doctorate program, or a doctoral degree? From the Latin words “docere” (to teach) and “doctoratus” (teacher), a doctorate is a terminal academic degree. Being a terminal degree, each of the doctoral degrees is considered the highest possible academic degree earned or awarded. Online doctoral students get access to finances and land some of the most lucrative careers!

Methodology

When we started looking at doctorate degrees, we kept in mind that earning a doctorate demands a significant investment!  But since we were looking for the easiest doctorate degrees, we considered the following factors in our selection: 

• The degree requirements for online doctoral students must be easy enough that a working professional can meet them on a timely basis. Most of these programs have a dissertation requirement, but their respective schools provide appropriate student support. You will have an easier time meeting dissertation requirements with the assistance of your professors.  
• The curriculum and coursework for an online program emphasize math, science, technology subjects, and quantitative research. Instead, online doctoral students focus more on their field of specialization, soft skills, and qualitative research. You won’t have to struggle with complicated math and science subjects, but be prepared for math and science work. 
• The online PhD programs class schedules should ideally be convenient and flexible. While there are always start and end dates for every course, students must also fulfill their personal and professional duties. Asynchronous delivery, 24/7 access to the learning materials, and the opportunity to take as many or as few classes are among the features we looked for. Many of these doctoral degree programs have short-term residency requirements, too. 

When choosing the featured schools in the list, we looked at the following factors. 

• The college or university and their online PhD programs must be accredited by a regional accrediting agency recognized by the Department of Education. Accreditation is a must to ensure academic quality, including the faculty’s credentials and the relevance of the curriculum. Being accredited also means that the education programs of the institution meet the standards related to its facilities, finances, financial aid, administrative practices, and student support services and satisfaction. 

We considered both doctoral degree institutional and program accreditation whenever present. We also considered the schools’ overall reputation in the academic community and their specific communities. 

• The doctoral degree online programs should fulfill certification or licensure requirements, as necessary, for the field of study. This is important for fields that require individuals to get a license or certification, such as taking national exams, to practice their profession. 
• The doctoral degree online programs have a structure that allows their students a certain level of flexibility, as mentioned above. Students may be able to study at their own pace, access their learning materials at any time, and enjoy other benefits of asynchronous learning. But we also recognize the importance of an organized structure and thus, most of the featured programs have a specific curriculum design. For example, prerequisites must first be fulfilled, and the post-graduate courses should be sequential. 
• The faculty members must possess the appropriate credentials, including their professional qualifications, past and current research interests, and work experiences . Student success partly rests on their shoulders, too, so their engagement in it must also be present, if not overtly manifested. 

Easiest Online Doctorate Degrees

Doctor of arts (da).

Online students who want to become acknowledged experts in a specific field of study but with a teaching emphasis can pursue a Doctor of Arts (D.A.) degree.

Online doctoral programs in this field were created as a discipline-based terminal degree and an alternative to the education-based Doctor of Education (EdD) and the research-centric Doctor of Philosophy.

Upon graduation, online students of EdD programs proceed with work in the academe, usually in teaching positions in colleges and universities. Many learners in these online programs also pursue leadership careers in other industries.

Holy Family University

3206 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19134

The 100% online D.A. program offers its online students with outstanding flexibility and convenience that working professionals appreciate. Students from around the country can be admitted into the program, and the technology requirements are reasonable.. 

Online students must complete the academic requirements for 60 credits with the option to submit a dissertation or not; the doctoral thesis is recommended in such online doctorate programs but not required. The online learning program needs to be completed within two years.

Murray State University 

DA – English Pedagogy

102 Curris Center, Murray, Kentucky 42071  (800) 272-4678

Teachers who are currently teaching English and its related studies at the secondary and post-secondary levels will find the D.A. English Pedagogy online doctorate program an excellent fit.

Students can choose from four specializations – Literacy, Language, Literature, and Writing – although academic explorations beyond their chosen specializations are strongly encouraged in these online doctorate programs.

There are also routes to choose from: 

• The traditional D.A. path is designed for students with a master’s degree, and it has 48 semester hours in the curriculum. 
• The accelerated M.A.-to-D.A. route consists of 72 semester hours, and it’s designed for students with only a bachelor’s degree. Students earn both a Master’s in English and a D.A. in English Pedagogy (Literature) after completion.

Doctor of Design (DDes)

Professionals seeking to conduct intensive and rigorous research into design-related subjects should look into the Doctor of Design (DDes) programs.

While the curricula in online doctoral degree programs of this type are different between schools, this online program emphasizes applied research. The applied research in these online doctorate programs covers a wide range of topics from building design and urban planning to product design.

The multidisciplinary approach in DDes doctoral programs focusing on applied research combines theoretical, technological, and applied topics.

North Carolina State University Online

Campus Box 7113, Raleigh, NC 27695-7555 (919) 515-9030

Design practitioners with a deep desire to create new knowledge and applications in design and a transformative educational experience are welcome to apply to this program. Students in these online doctorate programs pursue design research that will create the environment, structures, and systems for the future of design.

DDes doctoral programs introduce their students to research design and its methods the first year of the program; they then turn their attention to independent inquiry. A detailed design research proposal is drafted early in the second year of this 54-credit program, and students prepare for the preliminary exam. Finally, in the final years, original research is conducted toward the final dissertation process in design research .

Florida International University 

11200 SW 8th Street P.C.A. – 280 Miami, Florida 33199 (305) 348-1323

FIU designed its DDes doctoral programs to produce a generation of architects ready to meet the rigorous challenges of their profession and field. This is a two-year online program with minimal residency requirements. Doctoral students are encouraged to do so through a combination of research, scholarly activities, and innovation. 

The program accepts as many as 15 master-level transfer credits so that eligible students can earn their DDes degree in two years. The 60-credit program welcomes working professionals who are either teaching or aspire to teach architecture. The curriculum in these online doctorate programs usually cover the latest computer technology, digital fabrication, robotics, and advanced visualization tools.

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Doctoral students who want to work in government, non-profit organizations, and the K-12 system can apply to the Doctor of Education programs (Ed.D.) These online doctoral degree programs are different from the Doctor of Philosophy in Education or programs since these are designed to: 

• Develop leadership and administrative skills
• Equip students with practical skills instead of philosophical abilities 
• Enable education students to research on the practical implications of policy and practice

Students of EdD programs work full-time while pursuing the terminal degree. In contrast, a Ph.D. in Education is for education students who want a career in the academe, such as post-secondary teachers.

Walden University 

7065 Samuel Morse Drive Columbia, MD 21046 (866) 492-5336

Walden has established a reputation for being the Educator of Educators for more than 50 years, Education students in this doctoral program mostly specialize in Early Childhood Education, Community College Leadership, Educational Technology, Higher Education and Adult Learning, P-20 Education, and Special Education.

Doctoral programs like this typically require students to submit a research capstone project. Education students can rely on the school’s Doctoral Support Services.

Maryville University

EdD – Higher Education Leadership

650 Maryville University Drive St. Louis, MO 63141 (888) 266-0574

Education students earning this doctorate degree become future-focused, responsive, and reflective leaders in the field. With the program’s focus on exploring leadership theory and practice for higher education settings, students gain actionable insights into policy, governance, and finances.

This Doctor of Education (EDD) is a 48-credit program that takes 32 months. Graduates of these online doctorate programs can become leaders in their workplaces, such as presidents, deans, or provosts.

Doctor of Hebrew Letters (DHL)

Rabbis are the typical online students of Doctor of Hebrew Studies (DHL) programs. This widely considered unconventional degree encourages doctoral students to pursue individualized learning. 

Students for these online doctoral programs exercise their analytical and critical thinking skills related to the Jewish faith. The online coursework covers the Talmud and its codes and commentaries and the Bible, the Midrash and Hasidic work.

Jewish Theological Seminary

Doctor of Hebrew Literature

3080 Broadway, New York, NY 10027 (212) 678-8000

Offered at the Gershon Kekst Graduate School, the Doctor of Hebrew Literature (DHL) program is offered in these concentrations:

• Ancient Jewish Studies
• Medieval and Early Modern Jewish Studies
• Jewish History
• Jewish Thought 
• Modern Jewish 
• Midrash 

Students in this kind of online doctoral programs typically pursue advanced academic work but don’t seek to establish a traditional academic career.

Reconstructionist Rabbinical College

Doctor of Hebrew Letters

1299 Church Road, Wyncote, PA 19095 (215) 576-0800

Students at R.R.C.’s DHL program learn the deeper connections between contemporary and traditional Jewish faith. In these online doctorate programs, most are practicing rabbis who have already completed the doctoral dissertation process at other institutions. 

The program consists of three distinct learning phases: 

• Mekhinah Year, a preparatory year 
• Years 1-3, a Core Program phase 
• Years 4-5, also a Core Program phase

Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.)

The Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) is less research-oriented than Ph.D. degrees in musical arts. The typical D.M.A. online doctorate programs combine post-graduate academic study and advanced applied studies in an area of specialization.

Graduates of D.M.A. doctoral programs become professional conductors, composers, and performers and work in teaching positions. Specializations in these types of accredited online PhD programs include voice pedagogy, instrument pedagogy, and music literature. (If you want doctoral training in music theory, music therapy, or musicology, consider a Ph.D. program instead).  

Boston University 

D.M.A. in Music Education

855 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215 (617) 353-3350

BU’s D.M.A. in Music Education program welcomes students who want to boost their teaching careers, keep their musician skills in tiptop shape, and develop their scholarly skills. The university itself is a highly respected institution that has produced many of the country’s best teachers, performers, and musicians! 

Candidates in these online doctoral programs should have at least three years of experience teaching music, demonstrate leadership in the education sector, and a minimum of 3.0 GPA.

Rutgers University

D.M.A.  

33 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (848) 932-9360

Offered at the Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers’ D.M.A. program is considered the best because of its exceptional academic and practical training. Students for these online doctorate programs choose from three concentrations: 

• Choral Conducting 
• Instrumental/Wind Conducting 
• Orchestral Conducting 

Each concentration requires performances in selected venues along with academic online coursework. Students also get weekly, hour-long lessons with their teachers during the 12-week semester.

Doctor of Health Administration (D.H.A.)

Being a leader in healthcare settings is a tough job! While work experience is a must, higher education comes in handy, too. Doctor of Health Administration or D.H.A. graduates become clinical directors, health service managers, and health or nursing program managers in hospitals, nursing homes, and other settings. 

Students can choose from specializations or tracks, such as an executive track focusing on practical leadership skillsets and internships. The common courses include: 

• Healthcare finance
• Healthcare system administration
• Healthcare policy
• Health economics
• Organizational theory and behavior

Franklin University

201 S Grant Ave., Columbus, OH 43215  (614) 797-4700

Franklin’s D.H.A. program consists of 58 semester hours divided into: 

• 16 hours of research core 
• 20 hours of major area courses 
• 12 hours of electives 
• 10 hours of dissertation 

The best thing about it: You can finish it in approximately three years! You may even finish it in less time, provided that you have at least 24 transferable credits. 

Medical University of South Carolina

151-A Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29425 (843) 792-2536

Healthcare practitioners and professionals who want to use their clinical and administrative experiences for better career opportunities can take the first step by enrolling in MUSC’s D.H.A. program. Graduates become eligible for teaching positions in colleges and universities and leaders in public policy organizations, among others.

A new cohort of the DHA program begins every fall and consists of 56 hours and delivered in a blended format. There are two tracks – the Health Administrator and the Health Professional tracks. 

Doctor of Health Education (DHeD)

Healthcare educators, practicing clinicians, and leaders in the healthcare industry will find DHed programs a boost to their careers and crucial for their professional development. Here, students sharpen their leadership, communication, critical thinking skills, and teaching and research skill sets.

Plus, these programs generally don’t require a dissertation. Instead, students complete a Doctoral Research Project (D.R.P.), a written document published in peer-reviewed journals. Students also choose from several concentrations, including: 

• Public Nutrition 
• Epidemiology 
• Health Education Administration 
• Behavioral Theory 
• Health Policy 
• Health Services Planning 

A.T. Still University 

800 W. Jefferson Street, Kirksville, MO 63501 (660) 626-2121

The DHeD program at ATSU consists of 55 hours or 15 courses, with each core course equivalent to three credit hours. Students complete a Doctoral Research Project (D.R.P.) consisting of five 5-hour courses.

You’ll learn about traditional and emerging pedagogical and andragogical methods. A number of topics will be discussed, including student-centered learning, heutagogy, pedagogy 2.0 and 3.0, as well as problem-based learning and transformative learning. Teaching and learning will be focused on hybrid, online, and face-to-face environments.

Logan University 

Doctor of Health Professions Education (DHPE)

1851 Schoettler Rd., Chesterfield, MO 63017 (800) 782-3344

Logan’s DHPE program is a 100% online program that allows students the benefits of self-paced study. Students can even complete their practicum and applied research projects in the comfort of their homes! Earning a doctorate without putting your life and work on hold has never been easier! 

Students are encouraged to apply their clinical experience, education skill set, and content expertise to become excellent professionals. Full-time and part-time status in this kind of doctoral programs enable students to complete the doctorate on their own time. 

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The beauty of Ph.D. programs partly lies in the sheer number of concentrations offered! It’s safe to say that there’s a Ph.D. program in every possible area of study, from the sciences to the arts. The actual coursework depends on the specific area of study, but the curriculum consists of academic coursework and a dissertation. 

Since Ph.D. or doctoral programs are heavy on research, most graduates become professors, researchers, and post-doctoral fellows. The academe has a strong pull among Ph.D. graduates because it’s where their advanced teaching and research abilities can be showcased.

Faulkner University 

Ph.D.  in Humanities

5345 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36109 (800) 879-9816

The Ph.D. in Humanities program at Faulkner combines a worldly perspective with a Christian education , which results in challenging and engaging discussions. The 100% online program includes an effective online learning platform and several courses, including: 

• A foundation course in the philosophy and history of the humanities 
• Seven core courses 
• Two dissertation courses 
• Two interdisciplinary seminar courses
• Three independent tutorials in a specific area of interest 

Students can complete doctoral programs like this in three to five years, depending on their status and dissertation process completion. Credits may be transferred – up to six hours – upon the director’s approval. 

Amridge University 

Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies

1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 (888) 790-8080

Students choose numerous courses across multiple disciplines, including Marriage and Family Therapy, Counselling, and Biblical Studies. Their stay in the program is marked by an individualized plan of study, outstanding instruction from professors and mentors, and ample student support services. 

These doctoral programs consists of 51 semester hours, consisting of research, academic areas, dissertation process, and comprehensive exam courses. Combining these courses means that students gain specialized yet multidisciplinary knowledge and skills.

• Doctor of Public Health (D.P.H.)

Most D.H.P. programs require 3-4 years of study that includes academic work in education, business, and public health. Students may be required to pass an approved dissertation and pass a comprehensive oral and written exam, perhaps a short-term residency program. Graduate students can choose specializations in global health, occupational health, and environmental epidemiology. The coursework includes: 

• Health psychology
• Data and statistical analysis
• Quantitative and qualitative research issues
• Pharmacoeconomics
• Ecological toxicology
• Epidemiology

Johns Hopkins University 

3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 516-8000

Early to mid-career public health practitioners flock to J.H.U.’s top-notch D.P.H. program because it’s considered a golden ticket to executive-level positions in national and international public health organizations. Indeed, the Johns Hopkins reputation precedes it!

Students choose from several concentrations. The program itself trains its students for these positions through intensive education in: 

• Leadership and communication 
• Policy and program design 
• Management and ethics 
• Data and analytical skills 

This program demands long-term commitment, too – full-time students complete it in 5-7 years while part-time students have nine years for completion.

University of South Florida 

4202 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33620, U.S.A. (813) 974-2011

The U.S.F.’s D.P.H. program offers two concentrations: 

• Advanced Practice Leadership in Public Health 
• Public Health, Clinical Laboratory Science and Practice

Both have 43 credits for completion, consisting of core, concentration, and elective courses and a doctoral project as a culminating requirement. Students must finish 13 credit hours at the 7000 levels. Candidates may request a maximum of 12 post-master credit hours. 

Students in this type of doctoral programs gain skill sets in management and leadership, community engagement, and evidence-based public health and education.

Doctor of Theology (ThD)/Ph.D. in Theology

The current ThD programs are regarded as a cross between Ph.D. and Doctor of Ministry (DMin) programs. While the Ph.D. programs are intensive and research-focused and the DMin programs are less intensive and application-oriented, the ThD programs have a balanced approach. These are research-oriented but with more focus on practical applications, particularly toward the improvement of practice. 

Experienced theology practitioners who want a more expansive theological foundation upon which innovations can be created will benefit the most from ThD programs.

Regent University

Ph.D. in Renewal Theology

1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (800) 373-5504

Regent’s Ph.D. in Renewal Theology is a low-residency program that requires students to attend on-campus, two-week residency sessions every semester. These face-to-face sessions include in-seat class time, orientations, and academic and fellowship opportunities. The rest of the semester, however, is spent online. 

Pastors, missionaries, and educators are the typical students in the doctoral programs. This 60-week program includes these concentrations: 

• Biblical Studies
• Christian Theology
• Church History
• Practical Theology

Pontifex University 

4465 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30327 (404) 252-4513

The ThD program at Pontifex University is a research-focused one where students must complete a lengthy scholarly dissertation But the dissertation process is easier and can be completed online.

Candidates must demonstrate satisfactory moral theology, systematic theology, Old and New Testament, and ecclesiastical history, among other subjects. If the candidate successfully completes the eight core study areas, he or she will receive a Diploma in Theological Foundation, which, when combined with a graduate degree, may be considered an acceptable basis for applying to a ThD program.

Ph.D. in Recreation

Students enrolled in Ph.D. in Recreation doctoral programs can spend between three and five years on their studies, depending on their enrollment status. Their graduate-level academic coursework is complemented by comprehensive examinations and a dissertation project, common graduation requirements. The choices in concentration include: 

• Recreational Behavior and Cultural Studies 
• Recreation and Leisure Administration 
• Resources for Recreational and Leisure Activities 

Core classes vary between programs, but the most common are: 

• Contemporary issues in the field of recreation 
• Resources, policies, and emerging trends in recreation 
• Work, health, and safety in leisure 
• Qualitative and quantitative research data analysis 

Clemson University 

Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

263 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0735 (864) 656-3400 

Students have greater flexibility in determining their coursework within Clemson’s program, but there are general rules regarding the program of study. These include completing the academic requirements of at least 30 credit hours with the coursework, including Philosophical Foundations, Behavioral Aspects of PRTM, and Research Seminar.

A comprehensive exam and a final doctoral oral exam are also a must for graduation purposes as part of the final dissertation defense in this kind of doctoral programs. Both of these aspects test the student’s general and specialized knowledge and his/her knowledge of his/her research topic. 

Troy University 

Ph.D. in Sports Management

600 University Ave, Troy, AL 36082 (800) 551-9716

Troy’s Ph.D. program welcomes sport management educators and sports practitioners who want to contribute to the body of knowledge in recreation, leisure, and sports management. Students are provided with plenty of amazing opportunities to produce new, innovative, and theoretical knowledge with possible practical applications. This is a research-oriented online doctoral degree program.

Students of this type of doctoral programs learn about sports management and develop their advanced skills in data analysis, statistics, and other soft skills for the workplace. Graduates become fit for leadership and executive roles in higher education, sports research, and athletics. 

Doctor of Church Music (D.C.M.)

The D.C.M. doctoral programs are considered easy because of their emphasis on musicianship skills in preparation for careers as professional composers, conductors, and performers of church music. Since students already have proficient music skills through education and experience, the requirements are fairly easy. 

The typical curriculum of this online doctoral degree includes training in musical instruments, such as the church organ, and a survey of past and current liturgical music. Most programs have a three-year duration. 

Graduate Theological Foundation 

Doctor of Sacred Music (D.S.M.)

116 E Sheridan Ave, Ste 207, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 (800) 423-5983

The D.S.M. program consists of two parts – 30 credits of 10 courses and six credits with the choice between an exit project or a non-project option. The exit project can be in the form of one of three tracks with the choice belonging to the student and with the guidance of an advisor, including: 

• The academic track consists of a traditional thesis with 35,000-40,000 words 
• The performance tracking can be a recital or a lecture with a recital; an instrumental or choral performance; or composition and performance of original works 
• The administrative or ministerial track, featuring hymnody or workshops combined with a thesis  

Individuals with experience in parish music ministries and a master’s degree in music are welcome to apply to such doctoral programs.

Southern Methodist University

Doctor of Pastoral Music (D.P.M.)

S.M.U. Perkins School of Theology, P.O. Box 750133, Dallas, TX 75275-0133 (214) 768-8436 

The 30-credit-hour D.P.M. online doctoral degree program at S.M.U. enables church music practitioners to become even better at their vocation. The curriculum consists of: 

• Vocation and leadership courses (9 hours) including The Person and Role of a Leader in Ministry and Vocation, Leadership, and Community
• Concentration courses (15 hours) with classes on Music and Arts in Missional Ministry, Applied Studies in Church Music, and Music in Worship and Renewal
• Elective courses (3 hours) with choices like Directed Studies in Pastoral Music and Contextual Analysis
• Project, practicum, and thesis (12 hours) 

Candidates must have a Master’s in Sacred Music or its equivalent and suitable experience as church musicians and a passion for pastoral music. 

• Juris Doctor (JD)

Formerly known as a Bachelor of Laws (L.L.B.), the Juris Doctor (JD) is a three-year professional degree that requires its holders to pass a state bar exam before becoming law practitioners. There are accelerated online doctoral degree or J.D. programs with a two-year duration. Fordham, Columbia, Rutgers, and Drexel are among the foremost universities that offer the shorter option. 

While holders of other doctorate degrees can call themselves “Doctor,” individuals with a J.D. degree don’t because it isn’t a research doctorate. But J.D. holders who passed their state’s respective bar exam can practice law or become law professors. 

If you’re interested in a law-related research degree, you can look into two options. First, a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree and, second, a Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D./J.S.D.) degree. The LL.M. degree requires a J.D. degree as a prerequisite, while an S.J.D. degree has LL.M. degree as a prerequisite. 

New York University

40 Washington Sq. South, New York, NY 10012.    (212) 998-6100

NYU’s J.D. program is known for its outstanding quality of instruction, where students learn an extensive range of subjects in legal studies. Students whose professional trajectory includes business and law will find an excellent outlet for their passions in the Mitchell Jacobson Leadership Program.

With N.Y.U. Law’s reputation for being the best in the business, students benefit from the intensive law coursework complemented by corporate skills. Students also benefit from collaborations with non-law students, particularly business students, which expand their perspective about law’s importance. 

Abraham Lincoln University

Galleria Office Tower, 100 W. Broadway, Ste 600, Glendale, CA 91210 (213) 252-5100

ALU’s J.D. program provides a conducive environment for working professionals and other non-traditional students who want to plunge into the diverse careers that a J.D. degree opens. Students learn the laws of the land and conduct legal research, apply advanced thinking skills, and create legal documents during their training. 

This is a 140-quarter unit online doctoral degree program that includes core courses in criminal law, contracts and obligations, constitutional law, criminal procedure, and advanced legal research and writing.

Doctor of Criminal Justice (D.C.J.)

Holders of the D.C.J. degree have the skillset to become effective professionals in the academe, research industry, and administrative units in public and private organizations. Keep in mind that, like all doctorate degrees, it’s a professional terminal degree emphasizing applied research. 

In contrast, the Ph.D. in Criminal Justice or Criminology focuses on theoretical research. Both doctorate degrees, nonetheless, have overlapping functions considering that theoretical and applied research may overlap. But if you’re looking for such doctoral programs, you will gain the skillset to solve current issues using existing knowledge.

California University of Pennsylvania 

250 University Ave., California, PA 15419 (724) 938-4000

Cal U’s D.C.J. program was the first regionally accredited program of its kind in the country, and, through the years, it has established a reputation for being one of the best. Students learn from the experts about applying existing knowledge in responding to and addressing the current issues of the criminal justice system.

This is a 42-credit online doctoral degree program in Criminal Justice with a two-year completion timeline, including part-time enrollment. Students must study well, nonetheless, because the coursework can be demanding. The curriculum includes the completion of a doctoral research portfolio and passing a comprehensive exam. 

Saint Leo University 

33701 State Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574 (800) 334-5532

Saint Leo offered the second accredited D.C.J. program in the U.S., and, like Cal U, it has improved its curriculum and other aspects of instruction through the years. This is a 30-credit Criminal Justice program that can be completed in three-and-a-half years with full-time enrollment in the fall, spring, and summer terms.

Online doctoral degree graduates and students of this Criminal Justice degree online enjoy outstanding student support services, including effective partnerships between students and dissertation chairs. The Criminal Justice coursework can be customized depending on your personal and professional schedules.

Doctor of Liberal Studies (D.L.S.) 

Online doctoral degree programs in liberal studies are a consistent presence in lists of the easiest degrees because of their generalist approach, including the lack of advanced math and science courses. This is true for the D.L.S. degree programs, emphasizing the humanities, including history, art, and social sciences. 

These doctoral programs are the best fit for accomplished professionals who want a rigorous interdisciplinary program that will boost their expertise in their field. Indeed, most doctoral programs require students to meet the competitive admission process with small cohort sizes and comprehensive coursework. 

University of Memphis Global 

Memphis, TN 38152 (901) 678-2000

Offered at the College of Professional and Liberal Studies, the D.L.S. online doctoral degree program allows students to follow a customized course of study with the guidance of academic advisors. Both parties work toward developing a curriculum proposal that meets the Graduate School’s graduation requirements and the student’s interdisciplinary goals. 

Students must submit their respective Coordinated Study grid, a planning document that identifies their proposed classes, before admission into the program. The program requires 33 hours of coordinated study courses and 21 hours of core requirements or 54 hours at the 7000 to 8000 level. Comprehensive exams and a dissertation process are also necessary for graduation. 

Washington University in Saint Louis 

11 N. Jackson Ave, Suite 1000, St. Louis, MO 63105-2153 (314) 935-6700

WashU Saint Louis’ DLA online doctoral degree program consists of 45 credits with nine credits dedicated for thesis and research. This is designed for working professionals and other adult learners with extensive experience with a passion for lifelong learning. It’s a rigorous interdisciplinary program that’s easy because it’s liberal studies but difficult because of the breadth of topics. 

Part-time students can complete the program in four years but must dedicate 1-2 years more for the comprehensive exams and thesis. Students work closely with academic advisors to ensure thesis completion and approval. 

Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A.) 

All D.P.A. or doctoral programs of this kind offer a unique approach, curriculum, and graduation requirements that must be evaluated based on their merit. Most programs consist of at least 40 credit hours with academic coursework and dissertation process components and take 2-3 years to complete.

Many programs offer concentrations, such as ethical leadership, public management, and non-profit management, which allow for a specific field of study. 

Career opportunities are as varied as the D.P.A. programs, with popular examples being financial managers, college professors, political scientists, social service managers, urban and regional planners, and consultants.

Capella University 

Capella’s D.P.A. program is a breeding ground for future community leaders and advocates of effective public policy! Students get the crucial education through academic coursework, soft skills development, and community engagement.

Aside from earning a relevant D.P.A. degree, students also deepen their passion for public service and strengthen their cultural awareness and ethics. The blended doctoral programs features relevant courses like Theories and Concepts in Public Administration, Public Sector Policy Analysis, and Operational Strategic Management and Planning. 

National University 

The 54-credit online doctoral degree program provides students with a solid foundation in applied research concerning public administration, including its policies, principles, and practices. While there’s a research component, it’s geared more toward practical applications than theoretical implications.

Students in these doctoral programs will learn how to use research methods and literature to apply their knowledge. NU’s curriculum provides online learning students with skills to evaluate theories and practices in the field.

Doctor of Information Technology (D.I.T.)

The D.I.T. degree is a professional doctoral degree with a strong applied research orientation. Graduates of these programs can call themselves “Doctor” and attach the post-nominals “D.I.T.” to their names. This degree is at the same level as a Ph.D. in I.T., but the latter has a more theoretical framework. 

Concentrations for this online doctoral degree are available, including software engineering, information systems, and information security. Candidates for doctoral programs admission generally have bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in I.T. or related disciplines, a must since I.T. is also a specialized field.

The common requirements for completing this online doctoral degree are academic coursework, original research and dissertation with an oral defense, and comprehensive exam. 

Walden’s D.I.T. program requires its candidates to possess a master’s degree in information systems, information technology, or cybersecurity, among other related disciplines. For online doctoral degree candidates without a technical master’s degree, at least three years of relevant technical work experience must be admitted.

The concentrations offered are Applied Information Technology and Information Technology Leadership.

City University of Seattle 

521 Wall St., Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98121 (800) 426-5596/(206) 239-4500

When you complete the D.I.T. program at CityU, you can become a “change agent in the I.T. industry” due to your interdisciplinary training. This online doctoral degree is a 90-credit program designed for I.T. practitioners who want to gain advanced skillsets in educational technology and computing. The concentrations offered are Cybersecurity, Computer Science, and Data Science. 

Online doctoral degree students in this field get intensive training in various topics to prepare them for senior-level or executive-level positions in public and private sectors. The curriculum consists of up-to-date courses in cloud computing, data science, and artificial intelligence.

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Becoming a well-respected ministry researcher or professor can start with earning a Dmin degree from an accredited university. Aside from the well-paying jobs, graduates can also look forward to becoming influential religious leaders, religious counselors, founders of churches, and chaplains.

Most DMin programs allow their students to customize their program of study. Concentrations in these doctoral programs are aplenty, too, including: 

• Biblical Studies 
• Applied Theology 
• Children’s Ministry 
• Pastoral Counselling 
• Theological Research 

Duke University 

Duke Divinity School, 407 Chapel Drive, Duke Box #90968, Durham, NC 27708-0968 (919) 660-3400

Duke is among the world’s top research universities, and its enviable reputation extends to its Duke Divinity School, which offers a top-notch DMIn program. This is a hybrid online doctoral degree program with five-week-long, on-campus residential seminars over the three-year program’s duration. The residencies are complemented by eight-week periods.

In order to complete the DMin, practical ministry experience is combined with structured theological reflection. As the Scriptures and traditions of the church are studied alongside contemporary leadership theory and practice, the course grows an understanding of the nature, source, and characteristics of authentic Christian leadership .

Emory University 

DMin  

Rita Anne Rollins Building, 1531 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30322  (404) 727-6322

Offered at the Candler School of Theology, the DMin program consists of 32 credit hours that can be completed in three years. The hybrid delivery for this online doctoral degree means a combination of online instruction and on-campus residency, albeit short-term stays. The residency requirement consists of four stays, once for each year of the first two years and then twice in the third year. 

Experienced ministers are typical online doctoral degree students, and their training enables them to strengthen their understanding of the relationship between theology and ministry. Students choose between two concentrations – first, Church Leadership and Community Witness and Biblical Interpretation and Proclamation. The final capstone project in this online doctoral degree must combine academic study and practical applications in ministry. 

Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc)/Ph.D. in Health Sciences

The Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) and Ph.D. in Health Sciences are academic doctorate degrees that combine academic coursework, clinical practice, and research. Both doctoral programs also require master’s credentials and work experience for admission, and both can open career opportunities in academic and non-academic settings.

Due to their advanced nature, this online doctoral degree should lead to leadership or executive positions where high-level thinking abilities are a must. 

Bay Path University 

588 Longmeadow Street, Longmeadow, MA 01106 (800) 782-7284

Experienced practitioners in healthcare-related occupations who want to assume leadership roles in their fields find B.P.U.’s DHSc program an excellent credential. The intensive online doctoral degree training provides them with a new way of looking at real-world issues and finding viable solutions for these problems. 

Students pursuing doctorate degrees in this field must complete the requirements for 48 credits, or 16 courses, regardless of their chosen concentration. The available tracks in this online doctoral degree are: 

• Health Informatics Management
• Organizational Excellence in Healthcare
• Online Teaching
• Productive Aging
• Advanced Occupational Therapy Practice

University of South Dakota

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences

414 E. Clark Street, Vermillion, SD 57069 (877) 269-6837

The interprofessional Ph.D. in Health Sciences program prepares its students for leadership positions in health and human services, research, and the academe. Working professionals are at the heart of this online doctoral degree program, and candidates must have sufficient relevant experience to be considered for admission. 

The doctoral programs have four core components – teaching, scholarship, leadership, and advanced practice. Students in this online doctoral degree benefit from the convenience of online course delivery with minimal residency requirements.

Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.)/Ph.D. in Social Work  

Professionals with a doctorate in social work, whether a Ph.D. or a doctoral degree, as well as several years of experience and state licensure, have more rewarding career opportunities. Their advanced skillset is the most qualified for executive-level positions in organizations, including schools, non-profits, and research firms. 

The common courses in Ph.D. and doctorate of social work programs include:

• Social science theories 
• Advanced research methods and statistics 
• Teaching in higher education programs 
• Grant writing
• Social welfare policy and practice analysis 

University of Buffalo

685 Baldy Hall, Buffalo, New York 14260 (716) 645-3381

The 39-credit D.S.W. doctorate program welcomes experienced licensed social workers with a master’s degree in social work or a related discipline who want to improve their career opportunities. Students can choose to be on full-time or part-time enrollment; if you choose the latter, you can finish the program in three years or seven semesters.

Doctoral programs candidates must have access to willing clients or client populations as part of the admission process. This online doctoral degree is based on U.B.’s trauma-informed and human rights viewpoint. The online coursework includes organizational characteristics, concepts in implementation science, and technology and human behavior. 

Baylor University 

Ph.D. in Social Work  

811 Washington Ave., Waco, TX 76701 (254) 710-6400

Graduates of Baylor’s Ph.D. in Social Work program have an excellent shot at becoming leaders and educators in the field of social work. Baylor provides top-notch training that transforms them into visionary leaders and educators!

The coursework for this online doctoral degree includes research and analysis methods, leadership and administration, and religious and cultural diversity. Even the faculty is actively involved in research, ranging from child welfare and adoption to grief and loss. Upon earning this online doctoral degree, you will be prepared to pursue licensure as a social worker.

Doctorate Degrees Types 

The Doctor of Philosophy are research-oriented doctorate degrees, emphasizing original research, evaluation of theory, and data analysis. These are designed for professionals in pursuit of knowledge, including theoretical and applied research activities. The common Ph.D. programs include: 

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Doctor of Arts (D.A.)
• Doctor of Business Management (Ph.D.)
• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
• Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)

All Ph.D. or doctoral programs have dissertation requirements due to the emphasis on new research. The final stage is the oral defense before a committee or panel.

Professional doctoral programs are also known as the terminal doctorate or the applied doctorate offering practical solutions or effective practices in response to complex issues.

Who Should Pursue An Online Doctorate Program

Students who pursue professional doctorate programs typically include those who want to: 

• Pursue career advancement 
• Establish teaching authority or credibility 
• Meet the professional requirements for executive-level jobs in the corporate world 
• Build a consultancy business 

The most common professional doctorate degrees include: 

• Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
• Doctor of Professional Studies – Instructional Design Leadership
• Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.)
• Doctor of Healthcare Administration (D.H.A.)
• Doctor of Finance (D.P.H.)

Unlike Ph.D. programs, professional doctorate programs may or may not have a dissertation requirement. Each is a online doctoral degree that isn’t academia-focused post-graduate or doctoral programs but are instead programs that encourage doctoral students to tackle real-world issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

The answer depends on the chosen path of the doctoral student who opts for the online distance learning format. Doctorate degrees require between 60 and 120 semester credit hours, translating to approximately between 20 and 40 courses. In general, applied doctoral programs are at the 60 credit mark but nowhere near the 120-mark. But Ph.D. programs typically require 120 semester credit hours.

Applied doctoral programs can be earned in 4-6 years, while a Ph.D. may take eight. Doctoral students can decide on taking either a shorter or longer time depending on the online doctorate, your status as a student (part-time or full-time), and completion of graduation requirements.

Your total costs will depend on where the doctoral students are enrolled, what financial aid options you took, and your time spent.

The tuition and fees for an online doctoral degree vary depending on where you live. Schools may or may not have different rates for in-state and out-of-state students in online programs.

Doctoral students can spend between $11,900+ per year to upwards of $62,000 per year depending on the doctoral degrees being pursued. A financial aid program can help augment this burden.

Keep in mind that doctorate programs tend to have competitive admission requirements, such as:

• GRE or GMAT scores may be required depending on the program’s requirements
• Letters of recommendation 
• Portfolio/resume 
• Personal statement or essay 
• Official transcripts 
• Prerequisite courses 

Most doctoral programs also require candidate interviews, and evaluation for financial aid qualification. 

There are four stages of coursework in typical doctoral programs. 

• The research core in online doctorate programs consists of classes that establish your foundational skills in advanced writing, applied statistics, research methodology, and qualitative and quantitative research and analysis.
• The focus courses are specific to your course of studies.
• The electives in online doctoral programs teach skills that may or may not be specific to your chosen field.
• The dissertation is typically the last stage in doctoral programs.

Key Takeaways

Indeed, even the 20 easiest doctorate degrees offered online aren’t as easy as they sound! Doctoral students must submit themselves to the rigorous coursework of such doctoral programs, including class discussions, examinations, and research in an advanced degree.

Once you have achieved your online doctoral degree, you can call yourself a doctor and prove that you are an authority in your field. Pursue different career routes depending on your professional goals and the type of online doctoral degree programs you complete!

Malcolm Peralty Chief Editor

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Best online Ph.D. programs: Doctoral degrees ranked

An online doctorate program has a lot in common with a traditional, in-person program. By studying online, you'll complete the same courses and classes on a schedule that accommodates yours. An online doctoral program includes research and dissertation requirements, all of which you complete under the guidance of a mentor. 

If you're looking for an undergraduate education first, we've compiled the  best online colleges to help with prerequisites.  

If you're already ready to further your education, We've ranked the schools offering the best online doctorates below. 

Top 5 online Ph.D. programs: Quick facts

What should i expect in an online ph.d. program.

An online Ph.D. is comparable to what on-campus learners experience. The program typically begins with coursework designed to build your fundamental understanding of the discipline alongside research essentials. 

Once you complete the required classes, you will sit for comprehensive exams and submit a dissertation or project proposal. This is something you develop with a mentor. 

As an online student, you'll connect one-on-one with faculty via online office hours, email, and video conferencing. A bad internet connection or technical difficulties can hinder you.  You may also need to or want to travel to meet with them personally.

Some online Ph.D. programs may provide you with a computer , while others have research resources to help you. 

Much of the research you undertake is done independently and requires self-motivation and dedication. Asking questions, reaching out for help, and remaining in close contact with your mentor is key throughout the process. 

The best online Ph.D. programs: Our picks

We picked the best online Ph.D. programs using ZDNet's ranking methodology. Our proprietary formula for assessing online doctoral degrees uses federally reported data, programmatic and professional outcomes, and industry insights. We consider the whole picture to offer an unbiased look at the top online Ph.D. programs. 

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System , College Scorecard , and each school's website. Note that for public colleges, the average annual net price given is for in-state students.

1. A.T. Still University Kirsville, Missouri

About the program: ATSU offers online doctoral programs in health professions, health administration, health sciences, medical science, and nursing practice. 

• Acceptance rate: Not publicly available
• Graduation rate: Not publicly available
• Avg. annual tuition: $40,978
• Time to completion: Varies
• Average MCAT score : 505
• Enrollment periods per year: Four
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous programs 

Accreditation: A.T. Still University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

2. Amridge University Montgomery, Alabama 

About the program: Dedicated to academic programs infused with the ideals and heritage of the Churches of Christ, Amridge offers six online Ph.D. programs alongside three doctor of ministry programs and one doctor of education degree.

• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Graduation rate: 32%
• Avg. annual net price: $17,618
• Time to completion: Three to seven years
• Minimum GRE / GMAT / LSAT score: N/A
• Enrollment periods per year: Three
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous 

Accreditation: Amridge University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 

3. Andrews University Berrien Springs, Michigan

About the program: Steeped in the beliefs and traditions of the Seventh-day Adventist church, Andrews offers online doctoral programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, and education.

• Acceptance rate: 49%
• Graduation rate: 55%
• Avg. annual net price: $23,408
• Minimum GRE/GMAT/LSAT score: N/A
• Enrollment periods per year: Varies

Accreditation: Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

4. Ball State University Muncie, Indiana

• About the program: All of Ball State's online doctoral programs focus on education. Areas of study include adult and community education, educational administration and supervision, elementary education, and special education.
• Acceptance rate: 87%
• Graduation rate: 61%
• Avg. annual net price: $14,765
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous

Accreditation: Ball State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

5. Barry University Miami, Florida

About the program: Grounded in the Roman Catholic Dominican tradition, Barry offers online doctoral programs in nursing, occupational therapy, and education. 

• Acceptance rate: 65%
• Graduation rate: 48%
• Avg. annual net price: $20,539
• Minimum GRE/GMAT/LSAT score: GRE required, no minimum
• Enrollment periods per year:  Three

Accreditation: Barry University is accredited by the Southern Commission of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

6. Baylor University Waco, Texas

About the program: A Baptist institution, Baylor offers online doctoral programs in occupational therapy, physical therapy, nursing, and education.

• Acceptance rate: 68%
• Graduation rate: 76%
• Avg. annual net price: $37,309
• Enrollment periods per year:  Varies

Accreditation: Baylor University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

7. Bethel University Saint Paul, Minnesota

About the program: Bethel, the largest member of a 13-institution Baptist college consortium, offers online doctorates in K-12 education administration and higher education leadership.

• Graduation rate: 71%
• Avg. annual net price: $28,178
• Time to completion: Three to five years

Accreditation: Bethel University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

8. Boston University Boston, Massachusetts

About the program: BU offers online doctoral programs in mechanical engineering and occupational therapy.

• Acceptance rate: 20%
• Graduation rate: 87%
• Avg. annual net price: $30,395
• Minimum GRE/GMAT/LSAT score: Varies

Accreditation: Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

9. University of Massachusetts Global Irvine, California

About the program: Dedicated to serving non-traditional students and adult learners, UMass Global offers two online doctoral degrees: A education doctorate organizational leadership , and a post-masters to doctor of nursing practice program.

• Acceptance rate: 93%
• Graduation rate: 64%
• Avg. annual net price: $26,346
• Minimum GRE/GMAT/LSAT score: Not publicly available
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous, synchronous, hybrid 

Accreditation: The University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

10. Brenau University Gainesville, Georgia

About the program: Brenau offers six online doctoral programs in education. Concentration areas include elementary education, higher education leadership, higher education teaching and learning middle grades, and special education. A degree completion program is also available.

• Acceptance rate: 92%
• Graduation rate: 44%
• Avg. annual net price: $22,402
• Time to completion: Two to five years
• Enrollment periods per year:  One

Accreditation:  Brenau University is accredited by the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 

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• Graduate School

The Easiest PhD Programs to Get into

Should you pursue a masters or a PhD , it will still take several years to complete your degree, even if you are accepted to one of the easiest PhD programs to get into. You could be spending up to seven or eight years of your life pursuing a PhD, only to end up scratching your head thinking about how to transition from academia to industry or how to get a job after grad school . However, if you’re convinced you have the passion, patience, time, and resources to pursue a PhD and see it as a way to advance your career or professional ambitions, then you should read this article to find out more about how to find a postdoc , the easiest PhD programs to get into and how to apply.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

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Article Contents 10 min read

Easiest phd programs to get into, 1. adams state university – doctor of philosophy (phd) in counselor education and supervision (ce&s).

This is an online program offered by Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado. Students must complete 6 credit hours per semester, for up to 3 to 4 years. The entirety of the course is done online, but students are also required to participate in a one-week summer residency every year of their program at the Adams State University campus. This program is easy to get into because you do not need to submit GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores to be considered.

You do need to submit a letter of intent, so you would be better off reading about how to write an effective statement of intent before submitting your application. The length of the letter should be between 3–4 pages and address a series of questions like:

• “Why are you pursuing a doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Adams State University?”
• “What personal and professional dispositions are essential for future counselor educators and supervisors?”
•  “Describe your professional plans with a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, post-graduation.”

Want to learn top strategies you can use when writing your grad school statement of purpose? Watch this video:

You will also be asked to submit reference letters and a CV; all graduate students should know how to write a CV for grad school , as it is a common requirement for entry into graduate programs. Applicants with a master’s degree in counseling who also hold state certification to work as a counselor in their home state are given preference.

Admission Requirements

• A master’s degree from an accredited university or college
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 (must be maintained throughout the four years)
• Minimum two years of professional experience as a counselor post-grad

UTEP offers several doctorate programs in areas such as biosciences, civil engineering, and business administration, but those programs have several high-level admissions requirements like submitting GRE scores and mastery of complicated subjects like statistics and mathematics. However, the PhD in English Rhetoric and Composition only requires either:

• A bachelor’s degree in English or
• A master’s degree in English

Students who apply with only a bachelor’s degree must first complete the Master of English Rhetoric and Composition at UTEP. They need to complete the six-credit course requirement and present a master’s thesis. After completing their master’s, they continue to complete the PhD program requirements.

Successful students are given up to eight years to complete the degree, but they may receive their PhD sooner as long as they satisfy the 45–51 credit hours required to obtain the degree. What makes this degree attractive is not only the academic requirements, but the many career opportunities afforded graduates who can apply their degree to fields as diverse as education, business, and government.

• Official transcripts of all previous work
• Three letters of recommendation either from previous instructors or professional references 
• A description of their educational goals
• A description of their approach to writing and teaching
• Two writing samples: a research paper and a personal writing sample

3. Prescott College – PhD in Sustainability Education

Prescott College is a private university in Prescott, Arizona, that has a near 99% acceptance rate for all programs, including the newly created PhD program in Sustainability Education. This near perfect acceptance rate stands in contrast to much lower medical school acceptance rates , which are often in the single digits. This PhD program is interdisciplinary and blends disciplines like pedagogy, environmental science, and social justice studies.

The other aspects of the program that make it attractive are the fact that there are few admissions requirements. Students do not have to submit any GRE or GMAT scores. Neither do they have to pay any application fees. Successful applicants can choose to take classes part-time, if they have other responsibilities, but the entire class format is online, which is another accommodation to mature or professional students.

Similar graduate sustainability education programs in the US and Canada last for up to 4 years, but Prescott College does not mention how long their program lasts. The small class size and experienced faculty also make this PhD program an option for someone who wants to pursue research in environmental sustainability, with career options ranging from becoming faculty or working as a sustainability officer for businesses and government.

Contact the program director directly to find out more about admission requirements and other information.

4. University of Michigan/Rackham Graduate School – PhD in Anthropology

The Rackham Graduate School at the University of Michigan offers a 7-year PhD in Anthropology that has relaxed admission requirements, like not requiring students to take or submit GRE scores or any other standardized graduate school exams. But the program has other requirements, such as the documentation listed below.

Prospective students do not need a master’s degree to apply, but they must have at least a bachelor’s degree. However, students can complete a master’s while on the PhD track. The PhD program has an acceptance rate of 4.6%, so it is one of the easier PhD programs to get into, given that prospective students do not have to take any standardized tests or have a graduate degree.

• Application form
• Application fee
• Admissions Conduct Code
• Statement of purpose (1000–1500 words)
• Personal statement (500 words maximum)
• Letters of recommendation (3)
• Official transcripts 
• Writing sample (optional, 30-page maximum)

5. The University of Tennessee at Knoxville – PhD in Sociology

UTK offers several PhD level programs, but the PhD in sociology is one of the easiest PhD programs to get into since applicants do not need to take the GRE. All successful students must choose from one of the four core concepts to complete the sociology degree, which are:

• Criminology
• Critical Race and Ethnic Studies
• Environmental Sociology
• Political Economy and Globalization

Students explore each aspect of their chosen subject, which all have their unique credit and non-credit requirements to complete the degree. Along with this first area of study, students must choose a second area of study revolving around social theory or statistics. All students must complete a minimum of 27 credits or 9 courses within each core concept and take another 12 elective credits or 4 courses in one of the other four concentrations, a foreign language course, a graduate certificate in statistics, or a science minor.

If accepted, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 throughout the duration of the program and meet academic benchmarks established by them and the sociology department. The school does not state the length of the program, but all students must pass comprehensive exams in one of the four main concepts, write a dissertation, and present and defend it orally to complete the degree requirements.

• Master’s or JD degree in sociology or a related field
• Overall undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.00 or higher
• Three letters of recommendation
• Writing sample
• Personal statement

6. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – PhD in Urban Education : Adult, Continuing, and Higher Education Leadership (ACHEL)

This PhD program gives students seven years to complete all the degree requirements but does not require that they take the GRE or submit GRE scores no older than five years for admission. Some of the admissions requirements are document-based, meaning students must submit several types of writing to qualify.

All applicants must have at least a 2.75 undergraduate GPA, which is much lower than the typical 3.0 that most PhD programs require, to be considered. They must also have an undergraduate or master’s degree. The written requirements include submitting one of the following, with a maximum word count of 1500 words:

• Master’s thesis
• Undergraduate senior thesis
• Technical report
• Publication
• Written description of a project
• Action research project
• Writing sample answering the question, “How would you conceptualize and analyze issues in urban education?”

Students must also submit a Reasons Statement, in which you are encouraged to talk about the entirety of your background, such as why you are pursuing a PhD, your interests and background in the field, skills and training, and academic honors or awards.

Aside from the above written samples, prospective students must also submit a graduate CV and three letters of recommendation. There are no specific requirements for who must write the letters, but the letter writers are encouraged to write about the candidate’s past experiences and how they connect to the school’s PhD program.

• Undergraduate or master’s degree
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75
• 1500-word writing sample
• Reasons Statement
• 3 letters of recommendation

There are as many persuasive reasons to pursue a PhD as there are not to pursue one. If you want to know how to find a PhD topic or program, this article has outlined a few examples of some of the “easiest” PhD programs to get into. But completing a PhD is another matter. There are no “easy” PhD programs to complete since they all take years of hard work and dedication. Ultimately, the easiest program for you will be one you are completely immersed in and thoroughly enjoy; focusing on why the program is a great fit is a winning strategy when preparing your application materials.

One reality you have to confront is that the attrition rate for most PhDs is somewhere between 36–51% across a variety of fields and disciplines ranging from the arts and humanities to engineering and life sciences. The other thing you should know – and something all PhD admission consultants should tell you – is that pursuing a PhD is an all-encompassing commitment that will take over your life. As discussed above, program lengths are measured in years (minimum of five) and there are few guarantees that, if you do finish, you will be able to reap the rewards, at least in the short term.

Another growing demographic comprises people who complete all the requirements to obtain a PhD (coursework, credits) but fail on the most crucial element: writing and defending a dissertation. These students are known as “all but dissertation” and are forced to explain to prospective employers why they failed.

As if actually completing the degree wasn’t hard enough. the labor market is not always welcoming to PhDs either. High-level positions in government and academia often filled by PhDs are not plentiful, and other industries will require skill sets that PhD graduates typically do not have, such as managerial or organizational knowhow.

Whether you benefit from obtaining a PhD in the end depends on many factors, like your field and whether you’re an expert in an in-demand profession (computer science, bioengineering, engineering). While many graduate students enter doctorate programs to secure financial stability, other students are interested purely in acquiring knowledge and researching a topic or subject that they are passionate about. For these students, getting a PhD and all the attendant aspects (learning, investigating, writing) have an inherent value, so the less-than-stellar employment prospects or salary gains are not a priority. That’s not to suggest they are not mindful of the real-world costs of a getting a doctorate; rather, they are willing to put in the effort to fund their studies by applying for grants, working as part-time faculty or securing public or private loans, and accepting the bare-bones lifestyle of many graduate students.

Reasons to Get a PhD

More Employment Opportunities

PhDs do make more money than other degree types, like masters, but not by a lot. Some studies say PhDs earn up to $13,000 more than lower degree-holders, but it is more complicated than that. Those earnings only start to show after decades. Master’s graduates have a head-start on PhDs and enter the workforce much earlier than PhD students, so they start saving and earning more.

PhDs may have more employment opportunities open to them, in either academia or the private sector, but starting salaries for PhDs top out at $50,000. Moreover, by the time PhD graduates start looking for jobs, master’s graduates have already ascended to senior or executive positions earning six figures and more. Positions that offer starting six-figure salaries also do not often require candidates to have PhDs, giving master’s graduates yet another advantage.

Life-Long Research and Learning Opportunities

Money isn’t everything. Many PhD students are not motivated by financial gain or opportunity but are simply passionate about exploring and investigating a particular field for a lifetime. Funding this research is always a concern, but one component of becoming a PhD is learning how to write grant applications or fundraise in other ways that are essential to keeping research projects going.

Learning Valuable Skills

Skills like grant writing, fundraising, and networking are good to have if you want to know how to find a job in academia , and there are private sector companies that value them as well, but PhDs should also try to incorporate other skill sets into their toolkit. If they are interested, they can pursue dual-degree programs that pair a PhD with another degree type like an MBA or a medical degree, such as an MD-PhD program . They can also seek out professional development courses that prepare them for entering the workforce once they complete their degree, if they decide to go into the private sector.

Becoming an Expert

Some of the allure of a PhD is the authority it gives in a specific topic or subject, which means you are someone who is regularly sought out by various sectors and industries for expert advice. Being the foremost expert in a particular field can unlock many opportunities, but your specialty determines how much you can earn or what those opportunities are.

You can find that your expertise suddenly falls out of favor, like all the hundreds of Soviet physicists who had nothing to do once the USSR defunded the space program. But the opposite can also happen. Think of all the previously anonymous MDs and PhDs who became household names during the COVID-19 pandemic because they were experts in virology, immunology, or epidemiology.

The easiest PhD programs to get into are not the easiest ones to complete. Ultimately, if you are thinking about entering a PhD program, you need to weigh the benefits (potentially higher earnings, more employment opportunities, expert-level education) of pursuing the degree and the disadvantages (significant investment of time and money, uncertain job market, lost earnings). Go into the project with eyes open and a topic you want to study for many years, and your PhD experience will be much easier.

There is no easy answer. If you are someone who wants to pursue a particular line of investigation that requires years of observation and experimentation, then getting a PhD may seem like a natural path. But if you are more concerned about raising your earning potential or seeking more senior positions, in general, a master’s degree checks all those boxes without having to invest so much time and money. 

Any PhD program that does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores (GRE or GMAT) or have a master’s degree is generally easier to get into than other programs, but these programs have their own requirements, which could involve anything from writing personal statements and letters of intent to one-on-one interviews. 

All PhD programs are different, and they can variously require applicants to have a master’s degree, GRE or GMT scores above 300, and demonstrated aptitude in various fields, especially if you are pursuing a PhD in the sciences or engineering. There are also written requirements like submitting letter of intent, research resume , and a record of other notable academic or non-academic achievements. 

The answer is yes and no. Over many years, your education and training will pay off as you slowly start to pull away from other degree types in terms of salary. But it will take many years. During this time, other degree holders can attain higher positions and salaries that are comparable to yours, thereby negating any future gains. 

The duration of every PhD program is different, but the minimum length of most PhD programs is six years. Some schools have degree time limits – six or seven years, in some cases – meaning you must complete the program and present your dissertation by the time limit or be ejected. Master’s degrees, in comparison, usually take only about two years to complete. 

If you are wondering whether you need a master’s or PhD to apply to medical school s, the answer is no. However, if you are applying as a non-traditional medical school applicant who has a master’s or doctorate in another field, it can help improve your medical school application. 

The assumption is that PhD graduates generally do very well in the labor market. They do have low unemployment rates when compared to other degree holders. But one obstacle PhD graduates run into is having “surplus schooling”; in other words, they are over-qualified for a majority of positions. Only 2% of positions in the labor market require a PhD, which is one thing to remember if you are thinking about pursuing a doctorate. 

The cost of a five-year degree ranges between $150,000 and $200,000, but there are some PhD programs that provide full funding as well as a stipend. PhD students also work as teaching assistants for up to two years and can apply for grants or secure other funding sources like federal aid loans. 

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Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

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Rachel Miller

Updated January 2, 2024

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A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is the highest level of academic degree that you can attain. Consisting primarily of research, a Ph.D. prepares you for a career in academia or research in the field you study.

Students who choose to pursue a Ph.D. online will find it can be completed in less time. Online students also get the added benefit of being able to complete their work from the comfort of home. The overall cost may also be less compared to an in-person program.

We've compiled a list of the best accredited online Ph.D. programs to help you start your search.

Are Online Ph.D. Programs Worth It?

An online Ph.D. program is an ideal choice if you want to balance your career and family responsibilities along with your education.

While there are some preconceived notions that online programs aren't legitimate, as long as the program you choose is accredited, the degree is the same as one earned in person.

While the annual tuition cost to earn a Ph.D. online averages $12,394 for a public institution and $26,621 for a private university, doctoral graduates enjoy a lower unemployment rate and higher weekly salary than those with less education, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Did You Know...

• According to the BLS , workers with a doctoral degree earned a median of $651 more per week than workers with a bachelor's degree in 2022.
• Doctorate-holders boast some of the lowest unemployment rates at 1%.
• In 2019, research found that 39.8% of graduate students were enrolled in online learning.
• The number of doctorates awarded between 2020 and 2021 dropped by 5.4%.
• Not all Ph.D.-holders end up working in academia.

Explore Our Featured Online Doctoral Programs

Top schools for online accredited ph.d. programs.

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. AccreditedSchoolsOnline.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 appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

Capitol Technology University

• Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: In-State | $950 Out-of-State | $950

Credits to Graduate: 60

Founded in 1927, Capitol Technology University features 40 doctoral programs, which you can complete online. Majors include aeronautical science, artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, military leadership, occupation risk management, and supply chain management. 

Programs require about 60 credits, but you can choose from a doctoral degree without any research requirements. Coursework focuses on doctoral research, proposal writing, and oral defense. Capitol also offers a dual master's and Ph.D. in technology combination program. 

Admission requirements vary, but generally you need a master's degree in a related major and five years of work experience.

Clemson University

• Clemson, SC

Cost per Credit: In-State | $515-$1,319 Out-of-State | $515-$1,319

Clemson's graduate catalog features 52 doctoral programs with the flexibility to study on campus, online, or in a hybrid format. Fields like digital history, entomology, genetics, or business administration offer on-campus programs for traditional doctoral students. You have the opportunity to study virtually in nine doctoral programs, including nursing, educational leadership, and parks, recreation and tourism management.

To obtain a doctoral degree, candidates must complete approximately 60 credits over a span of 3-5 years and successfully defend their dissertation.

Keiser University

• Fort Lauderdale, FL

Total Cost: In-State | $31,712 Out-of-State | $31,712

Keiser University, which was established in 1977, offers 19 flexible doctoral degrees. You can attend classes on the 100-acre main campus or study at one of 23 satellite campuses. Programs offer evening, online, and daytime courses. Keiser's “student first” policy lets you take 1-2 classes at a time, depending on your availability. It takes about 2-5 years to earn your doctoral degree.

To apply for a doctoral program, you need to submit your master's or doctoral transcripts, a resume, personal statement, and an application with a fee.

Mississippi State University

• Mississippi State, MS

Cost per Credit: In-State | $537 Out-of-State | $1,074-$1,468

Credits to Graduate: 60-65

The public research university MSU, which began admitting students in 1880 as an Agricultural and Mechanical College, now boasts 71 doctoral degrees, including 15 virtual programs. Ph.D. programs include engineering, computer science, agricultural sciences, mathematical sciences, and educational leadership. In addition to coursework, you'll need to complete a dissertation and defense on an independent research topic.

As a doctoral candidate, you can access ample research opportunities. The Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station runs 16 stations throughout the state. Applicants need a recommended 3.4 GPA for their master's-level coursework.

Nova Southeastern University

Cost per Credit: In-State | $969-$1,386 Out-of-State | $969-$1,386

Credits to Graduate: 51-64

Nova Southeastern University, the largest private research university in Florida, boasts 14 colleges and 11 campuses. NSU offers 37 doctoral programs, with 19 of them available online. Earn a doctoral degree online in subjects such as criminal justice, computer science, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology. 

Departments such as the NSU Fischler College of Education and the School of Criminal Justice offer dissertation resources, including templates and mentor support. Each program sets distinct admission requirements, but you generally need a master's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Old Dominion University

• Norfolk, VA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $599 Out-of-State | $1,439

Credits to Graduate: 31-60 

Old Dominion University offers 10 online doctoral programs through its seven colleges and three schools. The program covers a range of subjects such as nursing, community college leadership, educational leadership, engineering management, English, instruction design and technology, and workforce and organizational development. 

Admission requirements vary across programs. For instance, the Ph.D. in business administration requires GMAT or GRE scores, while the Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction asks applicants to submit master's transcripts, an essay, and three references.

Saybrook University

• Pasadena, CA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $1,416-$1,590 Out-of-State | $1,416-$1,590

Credits to Graduate: 54-76

Offering hybrid online degrees since 1970, Saybrook University now delivers 11 online doctoral degrees. You can earn a doctoral degree completely online or in a hybrid format with a low-residency option.

Doctoral students can pursue studies in counseling, integrative social work, organizational systems, mind-body medicine, integrative and functional nutrition, psychology, and wellness. To get admitted, you need at least a master's degree. And you complete up to 76 credits over about 4-5 years.

Texas Tech University

• Lubbock, TX

Cost per Semester: In-State | $2,107-$6,877 Out-of-State | $2,107-$6,877

Credits to Graduate: 60-96

Created in 1923, Texas Tech's 13 colleges and schools offer 98 doctoral degrees. Texas Tech offers doctoral degrees in agricultural and applied economics, animal science, computer science, curriculum and instruction, and special education. 

Many of the doctoral programs, such as the Ph.D. in psychology and Ph.D. in wind science and engineering, offer STEM OPT Extension eligibility to extend your F-1 visa for up to two years. Programs require about 60 credits on average and a dissertation. Depending on the program, you may need to submit GRE scores to apply.

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.

We rank schools using factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation .

For this page, we created a directory of online accredited Ph.D. programs that meet our criteria. The list is organized alphabetically rather than ranked.

Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page .

Does Accreditation Matter for Online Ph.D. Programs?

A college is accredited after being recognized by an independent institution that verifies the school's courses and programs meet set quality standards.

The school you choose must be accredited in order for your Ph.D. to be recognized by employers , earn professional licensures, and qualify you for federal financial aid.

Legitimate accreditors are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. Cost?

In general, you can expect to pay around $13,000-$30,000 per year in tuition and fees for your online Ph.D.

Several factors affect how much your Ph.D. program will cost, including:

• Whether the program is fully funded
• Whether your school is public or private
• Whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student
• How long your program lasts (most Ph.D. programs take 5-7 years to complete)
• How much financial aid you get

While many in-person and online doctoral programs in the U.S. are fully funded, these tend to be highly competitive.

One way to save money on your online Ph.D. is to attend a program that offers in-state tuition to residents. Make sure you submit the FAFSA each year so you can secure federal financial aid .

You may also need to budget for occasional travel to and from campus and research sites, especially as you work on your dissertation.

What's the Difference Between a Ph.D. and a Doctorate?

While a Ph.D. and a doctoral degree, or doctorate, both signify the same level of education completed, their uses are different.

Doctorate is the broader term — a Ph.D. is a type of doctorate. Specifically, a Ph.D. is an academic degree that prepares you for a career in research or teaching in your field of study (such as science, English, or economics).

Besides a Ph.D., other types of doctorates include a doctor of medicine (MD), a doctor of education (Ed.D.), and a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). These degrees are typically used in either an academic or professional setting.

Online Ph.D. Programs That Don't Require a Dissertation

A dissertation is a final written project culminating in a student's original research at the end of their Ph.D. program. A dissertation is typically presented and defended by its author. It's typically required for degrees with an academic or research focus.

Not all Ph.D. programs require a dissertation. For example, some Ph.D. programs in humanities, education, business administration, and criminal justice require simple or no dissertations for a quicker completion time .

What Jobs Can You Get After Earning an Online Ph.D.?

Once you finish your online doctoral program, you can explore a variety of career paths both within and outside academia.

Many Ph.D. graduates, especially those who studied the humanities, go on to become professors. Other popular roles include administrator, scientist, and psychologist.

Graduates of online Ph.D. programs earn a relatively high average base salary of $105,000 a year, according to Payscale .

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs

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What is the quickest Ph.D. to get?

The quickest Ph.D. to earn are those that award professional degrees and don't require extensive research projects or dissertations at completion. These Ph.D. programs can include accounting, business, education, and media.

To finish your degree faster, you can also look for accelerated programs that quicken the pace of a program and shorten the time it takes to complete.

Are online doctoral programs legit?

If the online doctoral program is accredited, it is legitimate. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the rigorous educational standards of other comparative doctoral programs.

With accreditation, employers and other institutions of higher learning will recognize your degree. As more universities turn toward online programs to serve a more diverse student population, there are a growing number of legitimate, accredited online Ph.D. programs.

How long are online Ph.D. programs?

Online Ph.D. programs, like any other doctoral program, can vary in length but typically take 5-7 years to complete. A doctoral degree balances coursework with research. Usually, students must meet a certain number of course requirements before they can start original research.

While coursework may take only a year or two, writing a dissertation that meets the program requirements varies from candidate to candidate.

Can I earn my Ph.D. entirely online?

Yes, many accredited colleges and universities offer 100% online Ph.D. programs. That said, some programs may require on-campus experiences, such as library research and a dissertation defense.

What do employers think of online doctoral programs?

It takes a high level of discipline and persistence to obtain a graduate degree, no matter the context. Most employers will recognize and value the hard work it takes to get a Ph.D., whether you completed your doctorate online or in person.

Make sure you research potential programs. If you're attending an accredited, well-regarded school, employers will value your online Ph.D. just as much as a traditional one.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed November 20, 2023.

Popular Resources

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Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.

Easiest PhDs Students Should Consider

Finding the easiest PhDs can be a remarkable opportunity for any student looking to further their education.

With a higher degree, you can explore several profitable career options while studying for your dream job.

That said, some PhDs are more challenging and time-consuming than others, making it hard for students to find the right avenue for their studies.

If you’re searching for the easiest doctorate or easiest PhD program in your area, this guide is here to help.

We’ll briefly review several excellent programs to help you answer, “ What is the easiest doctorate degree that I can get my hands on? “

A List of the Easiest PhDs for Students

Let’s get right into the list of the easiest PhDs you will find today. They include:

1. Doctorate of Business Administration

Business administration is one of the most popular avenues for students looking for the easiest doctorate degree.

That is because most of your studies will revolve around the fundamentals of business and a specific specialty if you desire.

For example, if desired, you can get a Ph.D. in general business management or opt for a Ph.D. in advanced marketing.

With a business administration Ph.D., you’ll explore numerous concepts such as professional ethics, modern business design, and the tools you need to refine business operations.

Many students looking for an easy PhD route love business programs because they open the door to many employment opportunities.

Undoubtedly, most businesses in your area are looking for professionals with a business doctorate.

2. Doctorate of Arts

If you’re looking for a versatile degree program, an advanced art degree is one of the easiest doctoral degree options to explore.

Designed for creative-minded individuals, a doctorate of arts helps unlock many doors to artistic careers.

You may find yourself working in the arts or music, or you can also enroll in higher education options for teachers instead of an EdD.

With a doctorate of arts, you’re likely to find several programs offered both in-person and online.

Most programs with this title don’t require in-person attendance, like medical doctors, and the curriculum is slightly more adaptable to different learning styles.

A few amazing examples of fulfilling careers you can explore with a doctor of arts online include:

• Research Associate
• Assistant Professor
• Language Arts Teaching
• Ceramics Designer
• Art Therapist
• Advertising Art Director

3. Doctorate of Education

Becoming a teacher can be a fantastic opportunity for students looking to diversify their skills and find a rewarding career.

Teaching young minds makes you one of the contributors to a better future.

You’re part of the ins and outs of a unique specialty that fosters a new generation of world leaders and learners.

That said, to find a career worthwhile as an educator, working towards a doctorate in education can make a massive difference.

Education is the easiest PhD to earn because you can work towards it while employed.

In fact, many teachers find that studying and teaching concurrently is a fantastic way to enhance their continuing education, helping to make them more employable.

That said, it’s important that you find the perfect program to fulfill your educational requirements.

One of the more interesting elements of a doctorate of education is it comes in many different forms, depending on your specialty.

For example, teachers can earn an EdD in psychology, social justice education, or even educational leadership and policy.

After obtaining your degree, you can continue teaching at your current level with a significant pay raise or choose a more advanced teaching position.

4. Doctorate of Healthcare Administration

If you’re asking, “ What is the easiest doctorate degree to complete ? ” healthcare administration is one of your top solutions.

It’s a phenomenal program for students who have always had a passion for healthcare without dealing with the in-depth studies of medical doctors.

Instead, healthcare administration focuses primarily on managing hospitals and ensuring everything runs smoothly regarding patient care from the background.

With a doctorate in healthcare administration, much of your studies will strongly emphasize healthcare finances, advanced patient care, hospital policies, ethics, and group management.

You may find yourself in a position to run an entire hospital or be on a board of members working towards running healthcare institutions.

There are many career options for these professionals, including:

• Nursing Home Managers
• Clinic Managers
• Health Information Managers
• Hospital Administrators

5. Doctorate of Human Services

For many, working with underserved populations is the ultimate goal for schooling and pursuing your dream career.

With a doctorate in human services, you’ll have the advanced knowledge to help others succeed in life in several avenues.

Whether you have experience in rehabilitation or social work, this is a phenomenal advanced degree that’s often considered one of the easiest PhD programs to get into.

During your studies, you’ll dive into important topics such as human rights, policies, legislation, and ethics when working with underserved populations.

You can also choose from many specialties, whether it be mental health management, rehabilitation, urban city planning, and more.

Also, it’s important to note that a doctorate in human services will never become less popular.

As the world changes and families find it more difficult to survive, these professionals are needed more now than ever.

You may work as a community service manager, offering development and job training, or even working in social service.

It’s equally as rewarding from an emotional perspective as it can be profitable over time.

6. Doctorate of Public Administration

Have you always been a career-minded individual interested in helping others achieve their full potential in an office environment?

If so, a career in public administration could be the easiest doctorate to get that falls within your skill set.

With a doctorate in public administration, you’re most likely to work alongside or run a human resources department.

Alternatively, you may work with managing the overall operations of personnel within a business.

Regardless, it’s the type of career designed for professionals who love working with people to enhance the success and productivity of a business.

With your studies, public administration students often review public policy, strategic planning, and management ethics.

It’s also likely you’ll become well-trained in economics, conducting employee evaluations, managing the performance and expectations of staff, and more.

There are numerous careers to unlock with a doctorate of public administration, including:

• Budget Analyst
• Human Resources Manager
• Health Services Manager

7. Doctorate of Public Health

A doctorate in public health isn’t the easiest PhD degree on this list, but with experience, it can become one of the most profitable.

With the pandemic, the need for public health professionals has never been more pressing than it is today.

That said, finding placement in this study field should be significantly easier than the easiest medical doctor degree.

The central premise behind a doctorate of public health is to train professionals to advise the public on important health measures.

In most cases, this will involve analyzing statistics, working alongside patients, and working in teams to prevent major health crises.

The best part about this type of career is that it’s very hands-on, meaning it’s a learning pathway for students who prefer to learn using their practical skills.

As expected, there are a few unique careers to explore with a doctorate in public health, including:

• Medical Service Managers
• Medical Researchers
• Epidemiologists
• Biostatisticians
• Health Educators

8. Doctorate of Psychology

If you do some research to answer, “ What is the easiest doctorate degree to get ? ” plenty of medical professionals suggest a doctorate of psychology.

Undoubtedly, there’s plenty of strenuous studies that go into an advanced psychology degree, although it is considerably less than the average medical doctor.

With a doctorate in psychology, you’ll be able to apply research skills to the wonderful world of mental health to assist patients on a larger scale.

The most important thing to note is that a psychology doctorate is often required for practicing psychologists.

In some areas, a master’s degree is sufficient to open your own practice, while other states require a doctorate.

As such, you may not have a choice but to sign up for a doctorate of psychology program if you want to treat patients.

There are many career paths graduates can take after obtaining this degree.

It’s also important to note that psychology is a continually high-demand industry, meaning your specialty will never become less popular over the years.

A few of the most popular careers for a doctorate of psychology student include:

• Child Psychologist
• Professional Development Specialist
• Professional Consultant
• Clinical Psychologist
• Addictions Counselor

9. Doctorate of Theology

Out of all the programs we’ve reviewed this far, a doctorate of theology is the easiest PhD program you can sign up for.

Designed to help guide students through spiritual practice, you can guarantee it’s one of the easiest online doctorate programs you can also attend in person.

That said, it requires plenty of dedication, especially when it comes to applying your faith to every inch of your career.

With a doctorate of theology under your arm, you’ll likely spend a lot of time traveling.

Many of these professionals teach and learn about religions worldwide, exploring divine and spiritual traditions in cultures on every continent.

There are also theology students focusing primarily on Christianity and spreading the word of Christ to communities worldwide.

During your studies, you’ll dive into many fascinating subjects, such as literature, history, ethics, ancient texts, and philosophy .

Also, as expected, you’re more than likely going to find a religious-oriented career upon graduation, such as a:

• Minister or Pastor
• Private School Teacher
• Director of Religious Education
• Social Services Manager

10. Doctorate of Nursing

A doctorate of nursing is often considered the easiest PhD to obtain because it requires plenty of experience beforehand.

Most professionals looking to enhance their medical experience enter a doctorate of nursing program with at least three years of employable experience.

From there, they diversify their knowledge in different medical fields to pursue more enhanced career options.

With a doctorate of nursing, you’ll dive into advanced health systems, senior roles in health care, and outcome evaluation.

Most of these programs have a combination of hands-on and textbook learning and work-integrated research projects.

As such, you’ll find it’s one of the easiest PhDs to get if you already have experience with nursing and need a program to complete while employed.

A few of the most popular career avenues graduates from this program might explore include:

• Healthcare Executive
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
• Healthcare Lobbyist
• Clinical Researcher

What Are the Best Schools for the Easiest PhD Programs?

With an answer to “ What’s the easiest doctorate to get ? ” it’s simple to see the exponential options open to students of any background.

When pursuing further education, picking your potential area of study is the first step, but knowing what schools to attend is also important.

Let’s explore the easiest doctorate programs to get into to help you start submitting your applications ASAP.

1. Boston University: Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Boston University is one of the most popular post-secondary institutions in the United States, and for a good reason.

It’s home to some of the most diverse learning pathways for students nationwide.

That said, their doctor of occupational therapy degree program is the easiest PhD subject to dive into.

With this program, you’ll be able to complete your full doctorate within 18 months, consisting of only ten courses.

Students will need to earn up to 37 credits with several fruitful concentrations to choose from.

The best part is this is a fully online program, allowing you to get your advanced studies from the comfort of your home.

Another reason this specialty is the easiest PhD to get is that it focuses on evidence-based practice.

Ideally, you’ll enter this field with existing knowledge to help you get started, and you won’t have to worry about a dissertation.

With courses starting three times yearly (September, January, and May), it’s a great option for students.

2. University of North Carolina: Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy

If you’ve always dreamt of pursuing a degree in health sciences, the doctoral program in physical therapy from the University of North Carolina is fantastic.

They have two primary options for students to consider, either earn an online Ph.D. in nursing or earn a medical degree and master of business administration simultaneously.

Referred to as a transitional doctoral program, it’s the easiest doctorate to obtain because your learning pathway is streamlined.

Students only have to dedicate 24 consecutive months to their studies.

Also, you can choose to complete the program online or attend your courses in person.

With full-time and part-time study options, it’s a fabulous solution for career-minded individuals looking to diversify their earned degrees.

3. Liberty University: Doctor of Education

Becoming a teacher is a dream for many and Liberty University has one of the easiest doctor of education programs to consider.

It’s a fully online course, just like other online DMA programs.

You’ll also be able to earn your full degree within 30 months as long as you complete all 54 credits.

Each course will span eight weeks, and you’ll never have to worry about a dissertation, an amazing advantage for further education.

That said, you will be responsible for a capstone project, which is something to keep in mind.

If you’re asking, “ What is the easiest doctorate degree to earn ? ” this doctor of education program has an in-depth curriculum that’s great for all learners.

4. Frontier University: Doctor of Nursing Practice

As a nurse looking to diversify your career, it’s time to ask, “ What’s the easiest PhD to get in my career field? “

Frontier University is home to one of the most competitive DNP programs because of how well-thought-out the coursework is.

With a top-rated curriculum and fully online learning, it’s the perfect solution for employed professionals seeking an advanced university degree.

The DNP program at this school allows students to complete their studies between 18 and 20 months from enrollment.

In total, you’ll be required to complete 33 credit hours, whether you want to do so part-time or full-time, based on your schedule.

Most enrolled students are currently employed nurses in their respective fields, thanks to Frontier University’s flexibility.

Online learning gives you complete control over when and how you study, whether before or after work.

You’ll also be able to set up your own schedule, giving you enhanced control when managing your coursework.

One of the largest benefits of this program is that it doesn’t require GRE or GMAT but is likely to have a waiting list.

It’s also important to note the program doesn’t require students to complete clinical hours, making it even easier to accomplish.

Along with the fundamentals of your DNP, you can also take an assortment of complimentary courses to give you experience in a chosen specialty.

5. University of Tennessee: Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice and Leadership

Social work is an incredibly rewarding career, especially if you’ve been asking, “ What is the easiest PhD to get ? “

The University of Tennessee has a highly competitive doctor of social work in clinical practice and leadership programs all students should consider.

Within 36 months, your program will be completed, depending on the number and type of courses you choose to take.

This program is unique because it’s specifically designed to be a faster track, allowing students to condense their learning into shorter chunks.

That said, you’ll still be learning all of the fundamentals at a significantly faster pace than with similar programs.

With this program, you’ll find it’s a remarkable opportunity for working professionals interested in simultaneously maintaining their careers and studies.

The only requirement is that you take at least two classes per semester for three semesters.

From there, you have complete control over your studies, making it a flexible and adaptable learning pathway for every student.

Upon graduation, you’ll have everything you need to work as a healer or leader in your industry, all without the headache of a dissertation.

6. Walden University: Doctor of Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Walden University is a phenomenal option for students looking to take control of their studies.

With their self-designed programs, you can pick the appropriate courses that align with your future career goals and specialty.

Whether you’re a first-time student or a working professional looking to enhance your existing knowledge, it’s a great opportunity.

The doctor of higher education leadership and policy is easily one of the easiest course options available from this school.

The best part is that they have a 100% acceptance rate, speaking to the quality of their curriculum and the number of graduates they assist.

Another huge benefit of Walden University is they accept up to 50% of your transfer credits for the Ph.D. fast-track options, helping you complete your studies faster.

When studying in this program, you’ll require 86 quarter credits, which can be completed within three years or much shorter with a fast track.

You’ll explore many fundamentals, such as education law, policy, governance, and 21st-century higher education.

7. Capella University: Doctor of Psychology

When asking, “ What is the easiest doctorate to get ? “, a doctorate of psychology is a great choice that unlocks numerous career options.

At Capella University, students can study from anywhere in the world as long as they have an internet connection, as the course is entirely online.

If you’ve been searching for a degree program with a higher level of flexibility than most standard programs, this is the best choice.

Most students in this program complete their studies within five quarters, which is ideal for working professionals.

In total, you’ll be required to get 87 credits, which could take nine quarters if you choose to study part-time.

The best part, as expected, is the coursework is entirely online.

At Capella University, students benefit from a 100% acceptance rate and a few other benefits, like military benefits, employer discounts, and scholarships.

You’ll also find their tuition is quite affordable, especially for a Ph.D. program, at $545.

Expect to explore many fundamentals, such as inferential statistics, quantitative research methods, and multicultural issues in psychology.

8. University of Florida: Doctorate of Classical Studies

Classical studies are a fundamental aspect of human development and history.

Without these professionals, we wouldn’t have a way to preserve ancient texts, learn from past mistakes, and continue teaching historical facts over the years.

With a doctorate in classical studies, you’ll explore many fascinating subjects, such as Roman traditions, Greek prose, and Latin prose.

One of the most significant benefits of this program is that it’s offered by the University of Florida, one of the nation’s top research facilities.

It’s also a highly competitive specialty program, so it’s offered on-campus and requires a maximum of three years of study.

That said, if you want a doctorate in this area of expertise, you need 60 credits for the course to be completed.

Another important feature of the University of Florida is its thriving campus life.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for students interested in networking and making lifelong friends.

There are also numerous activities on and off campus to explore, ranging from local cuisines to art shows.

9. Arizona State University: Doctorate in Behavioral Health

If you love the idea of assisting with mental health but don’t want to allocate a lot of time to a doctorate, a doctorate in behavioral health is a great alternative to psychology.

At Arizona State University, students will work alongside clinical professionals to offer medical services to help others with better mental health and well-being.

You’ll understand how mental health affects your mind and body, as well as what behavioral interventions are best for certain situations.

You’ll dive into different concentrations during your studies, such as health management, psychopharmacology, and clinical concentrations.

Many students explore courses like advanced clinical issues, ethical issues in psychology, and legal issues in behavioral healthcare.

That said, it’s important to note this career is quite different from a standard psychologist or psychiatrist, as you are not qualified to make diagnoses.

This program can be completed within 12 months, allowing you to explore a world of fabulous opportunities.

It’s a phenomenal way to branch out into the mental and behavioral health industry.

10. University of Arkansas – Doctorate of Adult and Career Education

Students who have always wanted to try their hands at teaching will love this program offered by the University of Arkansas.

With 24 months of courses, you’ll have the skillset necessary to help adult learners further their education.

This area of specialty is also fantastic for assisting with career preparedness and academic guidance for older students.

You’ll explore numerous subjects when enrolled in this program, such as organizational management, adult learning theory, ethical issues in adult learning, and more.

Upon graduation, you’ll have amazing skills to work with cognitive coaching and create diverse learning opportunities for all students.

What Are the Easiest PhDs ?

Ultimately, the easiest PhDs could be anything from nursing to occupational health; it mostly depends on your expertise.

With shorter, fast-tracked programs and online studies, you can get your advanced degree in less time and in a way that best suits your needs.

There’s no better time than now to enroll in the easiest Ph.D. programs to become a more competitive learner.

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Degrees That Don’t Require Math: Top Options for Your Future Career

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2024 Best Grad Schools in the United States for Doctorate Degrees

There are lots of options to choose from today when trying to decide which grad school to attend. College Factual was founded, in part, to help students make the decision as to what would be the best school for them. Our Best Doctor's Degree Colleges ranking is part of that endeavor.

What's on This Page: * Our Methodology

• Best Graduate Schools List

Choosing the Best Grad School for You

Our analysis looked at 691 grad schools in the United States to determine which ones have the best doctorate degree programs. Our ranking for the best grad schools is based on objective factors. We steer clear of subjective measures since they don't give a clear picture when determining how one school compares to another. The following gives more info on what goes into our ranking factors and why we consider those factors.

Higher Than Average Earnings

To determine the overall quality of a graduate school, one factor we look at is the average early-career salary of those receiving a doctorate degree from the school. Recent students who earned a doctorate degree in the United States entered the job market making an average of $75,260 while those in the top 20 schools on our list made an average of $88,513.

Taking Out Student Loans

Graduate students may also take on a lot of debt while working on their doctorate so we factor that into our rankings as well. The average amount taken out in student loans for graduates at a particular school may be crippling for those who earn less than average wages after graduation.

More Ranking Factors That Are Important

We also analyze a number of other factors in addition to average post-graduation earnings and average student debt when coming up with our yearly Best Doctorate Degree Schools ranking. On a broad level, other factors that go into our rankings include such things as the demand of the school, the student body caliber, if the school has online options, and the educational resources provided by the school.

We go into more detail on these factors on our graduate school ranking methodology page.

One Size Does Not Fit All

Not quite ready to work on your doctorate? Check out our Best Master's Degree Schools ranking.

Top Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States

Learn more about these excellent grad schools below:

Our analysis found Massachusetts Institute of Technology to be the best grad school for doctorate degrees in the United States in this year’s ranking. MIT is a private not-for-profit institution located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The school has a fairly large population, and it awarded 568 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

Those who receive a doctorate degree from MIT go into careers with an average salary of $115,303 during the early years of their career.

Learn More About Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The excellent doctorate degree programs at University of Pennsylvania helped the school earn the #2 place on this year’s ranking of the best schools in the United States. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the large private not-for-profit school handed out 1,254 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

During the early years of their career, doctorate degree graduates from UPenn make an average of $97,555 a year.

Learn More About University of Pennsylvania

A rank of #3 on our Best Doctorate Degrees in the United States list means Stanford University is a great place for students working on their degree. Stanford is a fairly large private not-for-profit school situated in Stanford, California. It awarded 1,105 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

Upon graduation, doctorate degree recipients go on to jobs making an average salary of $98,295 during the early years of their career.

Read full report on Stanford University

You’ll join some of the best and brightest minds around if you attend Harvard University. The school came in at #4 in the United States on this year’s best doctorate degree schools ranking. Harvard is a private not-for-profit institution located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The school has a large population, and it awarded 1,444 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

Those who receive a doctorate degree from Harvard go into careers with an average salary of $95,158 during the early years of their career.

Read full report on Harvard University

You’ll join some of the best and brightest minds around if you attend Princeton University. The school came in at #5 in the United States on this year’s best doctorate degree schools ranking. Princeton, New Jersey is the setting for this medium-sized institution of higher learning. The private not-for-profit school handed out doctorate degrees to 293 students in 2020-2021.

Full Princeton University Report

Carnegie Mellon University landed the #6 spot on the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking. This fairly large private not-for-profit school is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and it awarded 333 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

Full Carnegie Mellon University Report

Northwestern University landed the #7 spot on the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking. Evanston, Illinois is the setting for this large institution of higher learning. The private not-for-profit school handed out doctorate degrees to 1,028 students in 2020-2021.

Upon graduation, doctorate degree recipients go on to jobs making an average salary of $93,954 during the early years of their career.

Read full report on Northwestern University

University of Chicago landed the #8 spot on the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking. University of Chicago is a fairly large private not-for-profit school located in Chicago, Illinois that handed out 755 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

During the early years of their career, doctorate degree graduates from UChicago make an average of $96,200 a year.

Learn More About University of Chicago

Rice University ranked #9 on this year’s Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States list. Rice is located in Houston, Texas and has a medium-sized student population. In 2020-2021, this school awarded 207 doctorate degrees to qualified graduate students.

Learn More About Rice University

University of Southern California did quite well in the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking, coming in at #10. Located in Los Angeles, California, the large private not-for-profit school handed out 1,914 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

During the early years of their career, doctorate degree graduates from USC make an average of $87,196 a year.

Learn More About University of Southern California

University of California - Berkeley ranked #11 on this year’s Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States list. UC Berkeley is a large public school situated in Berkeley, California. It awarded 1,187 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

Graduates with a doctorate degree from UC Berkeley make an average of $88,876 per year during the early years of their career.

Read full report on University of California - Berkeley

Vanderbilt University ranked #12 on this year’s Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States list. Vanderbilt is a private not-for-profit institution located in Nashville, Tennessee. The school has a fairly large population, and it awarded 787 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

During the early years of their career, doctorate degree graduates from Vanderbilt make an average of $91,182 a year.

Learn More About Vanderbilt University

Georgetown University did quite well in the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking, coming in at #13. Georgetown is a large private not-for-profit school situated in Washington, District of Columbia. It awarded 1,014 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

Graduates with a doctorate degree from Georgetown make an average of $105,462 per year during the early years of their career.

Learn More About Georgetown University

Yale University did quite well in the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking, coming in at #14. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, the fairly large private not-for-profit school awarded 742 diplomas to qualifed doctorate degree students in 2020-2021.

Those who receive a doctorate degree from Yale go into careers with an average salary of $91,187 during the early years of their career.

Read full report on Yale University

Teachers College at Columbia University did quite well in the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking, coming in at #15. Teachers College is a small private not-for-profit school situated in New York, New York. It awarded 185 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

Graduates with a doctorate degree from Teachers College make an average of $78,856 per year during the early years of their career.

Full Teachers College at Columbia University Report

Duke University came in at #16 in this year’s edition of the Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking. Located in Durham, North Carolina, the fairly large private not-for-profit school handed out 949 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

Graduates with a doctorate degree from Duke make an average of $92,967 per year during the early years of their career.

Full Duke University Report

Columbia University in the City of New York landed the #17 spot on the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking. Columbia is a large private not-for-profit school situated in New York, New York. It awarded 1,502 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

During the early years of their career, doctorate degree graduates from Columbia make an average of $102,938 a year.

Learn More About Columbia University in the City of New York

Bentley University did quite well in the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking, coming in at #18. Bentley is located in Waltham, Massachusetts and has a medium-sized student population. In 2020-2021, this school awarded 1 doctorate degrees to qualified graduate students.

Full Bentley University Report

Suffolk University landed the #19 spot on the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking. This medium-sized private not-for-profit school is located in Boston, Massachusetts, and it awarded 351 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

The average salary of a graduate with a doctorate degree from Suffolk is $56,355 during the early years of their career.

Read full report on Suffolk University

Cornell University landed the #20 spot on the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking. Cornell is a private not-for-profit institution located in Ithaca, New York. The school has a large population, and it awarded 777 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

The average salary of a graduate with a doctorate degree from Cornell is $107,405 during the early years of their career.

Read full report on Cornell University

With a ranking of #21, Georgia Institute of Technology - Main Campus did quite well on the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States list. Atlanta, Georgia is the setting for this large institution of higher learning. The public school handed out doctorate degrees to 577 students in 2020-2021.

Full Georgia Institute of Technology - Main Campus Report

Brown University ranked #22 on this year’s Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States list. This fairly large private not-for-profit school is located in Providence, Rhode Island, and it awarded 293 doctorate degrees in 2020-2021.

The average salary of a graduate with a doctorate degree from Brown is $60,843 during the early years of their career.

Read full report on Brown University

Washington University in St Louis came in at #23 in this year’s edition of the Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking. WUSTL is located in Saint Louis, Missouri and has a fairly large student population. In 2020-2021, this school awarded 742 doctorate degrees to qualified graduate students.

During the early years of their career, doctorate degree graduates from WUSTL make an average of $72,507 a year.

Learn More About Washington University in St Louis

University of Notre Dame did quite well in the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States ranking, coming in at #24. Notre Dame, Indiana is the setting for this fairly large institution of higher learning. The private not-for-profit school handed out doctorate degrees to 422 students in 2020-2021.

During the early years of their career, doctorate degree graduates from Notre Dame make an average of $78,016 a year.

Read full report on University of Notre Dame

With a ranking of #25, California Institute of Technology did quite well on the 2024 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States list. Caltech is located in Pasadena, California and has a small student population. In 2020-2021, this school awarded 184 doctorate degrees to qualified graduate students.

Those who receive a doctorate degree from Caltech go into careers with an average salary of $59,996 during the early years of their career.

Read full report on California Institute of Technology

Rest of the Top 50 Best Doctorate Degree Schools in the United States

Not only did these schools make the top 50 list, but they also landed in the top 15% of this year’s ranking:

Narrow Doctorate Degree Schools by Region

Rocky mountains, middle atlantic, great lakes, new england, plains states, far western us, other u.s. territories, rest of the top 15% doctorate degree schools in the united states.

To learn more about the schools below, just click on their names:

Honorable Mentions

These schools also performed well in our Best Doctorate Degree Schools ranking:

More Rankings

Bachelor's degrees, returning adults, master's degrees.

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Notes and References

• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
• Information about the national average student loan default rate is from the U.S. Department of Education and refers to data about the 2016 borrower cohort tracking period for which the cohort default rate (CDR) was 10.1%.

More about our data sources and methodologies .

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7 “Easiest” Types of Doctor to Become + How to Get There

What’s covered:, how to become a doctor, least competitive medical specialties, best pre-med schools.

Becoming a doctor is not an easy task. It involves hard work, extensive preparation, and a certain level of intensity. That being said, there are some specialties that are more or less competitive than others.

In this post, we’ll go over the steps to becoming a doctor, including the process of specializing. We’ll also rank the “easiest” types of doctor to become and what each of those specialties entails.

High School

If you can’t be pre-med in high school, how do you prepare for your future medical career? The answer is to strategically navigate the college application and admissions process. Keep your goal of becoming a doctor in mind as you decide which universities to apply to. You will want to consider the rigor of each school’s science classes, the effectiveness of pre-med advising, how research would factor into your college career, whether hospitals are accessible, and the financial viability of each university.

Undergraduate Studies

Your time in college is critical to your medical career because your undergraduate years are when you complete your pre-med requirements and bolster your medical school application. Medical school has extensive requirements to be completed as part of your undergraduate studies. These requirements generally include multiple semesters of biology, physics, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and math.

While you do need to complete all the pre-med prerequisites to apply to medical school, medical schools will also heavily consider your success on the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) in their decisions. Preparing for the MCAT should be high on your priority list during your undergraduate studies.

Medical School

In medical school, you will have intensive coursework in a variety of subjects—including anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, and more—which will be supplemented by hands-on experience. This includes exploring different specialties through clinical rotations so that you can confidently select your specialty when applying for residency.

After finishing medical school, you will be a doctor (sort of)! You will still need to spend three to seven years working as a resident under more experienced doctors. This is where you will become an expert in your specialty. You must pass a board exam in your specialty before you can begin practicing on your own.

Learn more about the steps to becoming a doctor in our blog post.

When Do Doctors Specialize?

During the first two years of medical school, students do preclinical training and are advised to keep an open mind toward different specialties. In the same way that undergraduates have the freedom to change their major early in their college career, medical students are not locked into their specialty right away.

Usually, at the beginning of the third year of medical school, students start clinical rotations. This is when students shadow physicians and residents, interact with patients, and see the applications of their coursework. You can choose to clerk for doctors in different areas, such as general surgery, gynecology, internal medicine, or orthopedics. Some people also view clinical rotations as networking opportunities and informal interviews.

Clinical rotations exert a major influence on the specialties chosen by medical students. Sometimes they reinforce the long-standing desires of students, and other times they expose students to new and interesting paths. When doing rotations, it’s important to think about what you want to get out of your job and what you want to achieve during your future career. Some factors that influence a doctor’s specialty choice include:

• Work-life balance
• Income expectations
• Personality of other doctors in a particular specialty
• Length of residency
• Amount of contact with patients
• Time in a hospital vs. time in an office
• Competitiveness

When applying for your residency, you finally decide on your specialty. Residency applications are typically submitted in the fall of your fourth year of medical school. If you need more time to decide your specialty, there are subinternship opportunities, or you can take an extra year.

Competitiveness is often rated as an important factor for students who are deciding on their specialty. Using the average United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 scores —which assess the foundational medical knowledge of medical school students—and the average number of abstracts, publications, and presentations of first-year residents by specialty in 2020-21, we’ve created a list of least competitive specialties.

1. Family Medicine

Average Step 1 Score: 216.1

Average Number of Publications: 2.8

Family medicine practitioners are trained in pediatrics and adult care (including gynecology and gastroenterology) so that they can treat every member of the family. Their work involves comprehensive care and requires an understanding of most ailments. Family medicine doctors typically engage more in office-based work—such as “well” and “sick” visits—than hospital-based work.

2. Psychiatry

Average Step 1 Score: 223.1

Average Number of Publications: 5.0

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders, as well as substance abuse disorders. Diagnosis typically involves conversations with patients and common treatments include psychotherapy and medication.

3. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Average Step 1 Score: 224.2

Average Number of Publications: 4.7

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians work with patients who have physical impairments or disabilities (from disease, condition, or injury) to improve their ability to function and their quality of life. PM&R uses physical therapy and pain management, and it attempts to avoid surgical operations whenever possible.

4. Pediatrics

Average Step 1 Score: 226.4

Pediatricians focus on children exclusively. They are concerned with the variety of physical, mental, social, and behavioral health factors that affect children until the age of 18. Pediatricians must understand the typical development of children to ensure that their patients are developing healthily.

5. Emergency Medicine

Average Step 1 Score: 231.1

Average Number of Publications: 3.9

Emergency medicine doctors treat patients in the emergency room. EM doctors are truly the jack of all trades, as they see a wide range of patients, ranging from people with everyday illnesses to trauma victims.

6. Internal Medicine (Categorical)

Average Step 1 Score: 231.4

Average Number of Publications: 5.2

Internal medicine exclusively focuses on adults and adult health conditions. These physicians—called internists—prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases and conditions that affect any part of the adult body. They are involved in health maintenance and disease screening, and they often make referrals to other specialists.

7. Anesthesiology

Average Step 1 Score: 232.7

Average Number of Publications: 5.3

Anesthesiologists specialize in the administration of anesthetics during surgeries and other procedures. They help to ensure that you feel a minimal amount of pain or remain asleep during operations. Anesthesiologists can also provide pain relief and care outside of the operating room to patients with chronic conditions such as cancer.

If you are interested in any of these specialties, or any others, check out CollegeVine’s comprehensive review of medical specialties , which includes details about each specialty’s duties and salaries.

It’s a common misconception that pre-med is a major—at most schools, it is actually a “track” that students follow to fulfill the prerequisites for applying to medical school. Find out more about pre-med requirements here .

Some colleges that are known for their pre-med advising, access to medical opportunities, rigorous STEM courses, and high medical school acceptance rates include:

1. Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 13,100

Acceptance Rate: 4%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1580 SAT/33-36 ACT

Graduating from a prestigious and historic institution like Harvard is sure to give a boost to any student’s odds of getting into medical school. A 2013 article from The Harvard Crimson estimates that 17% of a given Harvard class will apply to medical school, and in 2012, Harvard pre-med applicants with a 3.5 GPA or higher had a 93% acceptance rate to medical school.

There are a variety of resources available to Harvard pre-med students. The school’s Office of Career Services provides advisors for students pursuing health-related fields, and publishes a newsletter containing information about items like upcoming workshops and medical school visits. There are also a number of groups that are beneficial to students interested in medical careers, including the Harvard Pre-Medical Society and Harvard Alumni in Healthcare .

2. Duke University

Location: Durhan, NC

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,000

Acceptance Rate: 5.8%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1490-1560 SAT/33-35 ACT

While Duke doesn’t offer a specific pre-med path, it does provide all the classes required for students who are planning on applying to medical school—and it even suggests courses for students interested in health-related careers. Duke also offers advisors especially focused on assisting pre-health students. According to Duke , between 70% and 80% of its students are accepted into medical school—a considerably higher percentage than the national average.

Outside of the classroom, students will find numerous opportunities to prepare themselves for a career in medicine, from conducting research to volunteering at local hospitals and health centers to shadowing healthcare professionals. On campus, students will also find groups that support pre-med students, such as the American Medical Women’s Association and Duke Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students .

3. University of Pennsylvania | UPenn

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Undergrad Enrollment: 13,000

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1570 SAT/33-35 ACT

There are a lot of qualities that attract pre-med students to UPenn, such as its Ivy League bona fides and access to the Perelman School of Medicine—founded in 1765, it’s the oldest medical school in the country. Another attractive factor of UPenn is the acceptance of its students into medical school; 82% of UPenn students and alumni who applied to begin medical school in 2022 were accepted—that’s nearly twice the national average (43%)!

UPenn accommodates a broad swath of pre-med students. Its Pre-Health Core Studies program is aimed at helping students with little scientific background get up to speed, while its Pre-Health Specialized Studies program can help students with scientific backgrounds bolster their academic credentials and become more competitive medical school candidates. 

UPenn offers pre-health advising from professionals with significant healthcare, life-science research, and higher education experience who can assist students with everything from course selection to application preparation to interviewing.

4. Washington University in St. Louis | WashU

Location: St. Louis, MO

More students apply to medical school from WashU than from any other college on this list—a staggering 372 WashU students applied to medical school in 2022-2023. It’s not just that WashU generates a lot of applicants; it also has successful applicants—between 2017 and 2021, their first-time acceptance rate to medical school was 76% .

The MedPrep Program is unique to WashU. This two-part program begins with a lecture series detailing the educational pathway to becoming a doctor and concludes with students getting real-world experience in medicine by shadowing for four hours every other week at the Charles F. Knight Emergency and Trauma Center of Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

WashU provides an abundance of research opportunities to pre-med students as well as programs like the Washington University Biology Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program (BioSURF) , which offers an excellent way to improve your med school application while earning funding.

5. Rice University

Location: Houston, TX

Undergrad Enrollment: 4,300

Acceptance Rate: 9.48%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1490-1570 SAT/34-35 ACT

Rice University is an extremely popular destination for students with an interest in pursuing health-related careers— between 30% and 40% of incoming students indicate an interest in pre-health studies . Helping push Rice to the top of many pre-med students’ lists is its proximity to the Texas Medical Center , the world’s largest medical complex, which is home to the world’s largest children’s hospital and world’s largest cancer hospital.

Rice pre-med students will find no shortage of support on campus. Specialized advising is available to pre-health students and offers guidance on everything from course selection to applying to medical school. The Rice Pre-Medical Society (RPMS) is an undergraduate organization that provides resources, advice, and opportunities to students interested in health professions. The RPMS also provides the Big Owl/Little Owl Program (BOP) , which connects Rice undergraduates with medical students, physicians, and residents.

6. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,800

Acceptance Rate: 3.6%

• 94.4% scored between 1400 and 1600 on the SAT
• 96.1% scored between 30 and 36 on the ACT

Graduating from a prestigious college like Stanford is a feather in the cap of any student hoping to attend medical school. Stanford doesn’t have a pre-med major (like most colleges), but it does provide extensive resources for students interested in health-related careers.

The college provides pre-med advisors to assist students in picking out courses, planning for long-term objectives, and gaining valuable experience. In autumn, the former Assistant Director of Admissions at Stanford University School of Medicine makes herself available to meet with students to discuss the medical school application process, school selection, and preparation for interviews.

Pre-med students at Stanford will find a myriad of application-boosting opportunities on and off campus, from physician shadowing to volunteering to research.

7. Northwestern University

Location: Evanston, IL

Undergrad Enrollment: 9,900

Acceptance Rate: 6.9%

SAT/ACT: 1490-1550 SAT/33-35 ACT

In recent years, Northwestern has sent students on to some of the best medical schools in the nation , including Harvard, NYU, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, and UPenn. The college provides Health Professions Advising (HPA), which assists students in understanding the various pathways to medical school, required courses, and the application process. Also helping Northwestern students on the path to a career in health-related fields is the Pre-Health Professional Student Group , which is dedicated to the successful admission of its members into programs that lead to careers in medicine, health, and veterinary practice.

The Northwestern Undergraduate Premedical Scholars Program (NUPSP) is a program unique to Northwestern. The program provides early MD acceptance to Northwestern students who have completed two full years of undergraduate study and are committed to attending Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. NUPSP doesn’t require students to take the MCAT examination and accepts between six and eight students annually.

8. Brown University

Location: Providence, RI

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,100

Acceptance Rate: 5.5%

SAT/ACT: 1470-1550 SAT/33-35 ACT

Between 130 and 150 Brown students and recent graduates apply to medical school annually and frequently boast acceptance rates of over 80% . In 2021, 81% of Brown students and recent graduates gained acceptance into medical school. Brown offers healthcare career advising, along with health career peer advisors (HCPA) who offer first-year students the opportunity to speak with current undergraduates about their experience as health career students.

Brown is most notable for its Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME)—an eight-year program that combines an undergraduate degree with medical school—and the only program of its kind in the Ivy League. Nearly one-third (32%) of Brown’s Warren Alpert Medical School class of 2026 were admitted through the PLME program . Students enter the PLME program directly from high school and can pursue undergraduate degrees in a wide variety of fields ranging from the sciences to the humanities.

9. Amherst College

Location: Amherst, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 1,800

Acceptance Rate: 7.2%

SAT/ACT: 1450-1520 SAT/33-34 ACT

The only liberal arts school on our list, Amherst College has a proven track record of getting its students into medical school—on average, the college enjoys between a 75% and 80% acceptance rate .

The school provides pre-health advising and mentoring throughout a student’s undergraduate years and beyond. Amherst College emphasizes a holistic approach to pre-med paths, encouraging students to follow their interests and be themselves rather than merely checking boxes on the track to a medical career.

Amherst College supports pre-med students in a number of ways, like publishing pre-health guides and a bi-weekly newsletter, hosting small group advising sessions, and providing mentors. It also offers a variety of research, volunteer, and physician shadowing opportunities.

10. Case Western Reserve University

Location: Cleveland, OH

Undergrad Enrollment: 5,500

Acceptance Rate: 27%

SAT/ACT: 1420-1520 SAT/32-33 ACT

Nationally ranked hospitals within walking distance, easy access to healthcare professionals, and an abundance of available research opportunities are just a few factors that attract pre-med students to Case Western. Another impressive advantage of a Case Western education is the 64% medical school acceptance rate its undergraduates have enjoyed over the last five years—significantly higher than the 42% national average. Recent graduates have matriculated at top medical schools like Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and NYU.

The Pre-Professional Scholars Program (PPSP) is something that catches the eye of many pre-med students. Up to 20 first-year applicants annually are accepted into this extremely competitive eight-year program, in which students earn an undergraduate degree and go on to study at the School of Medicine. Just how hard is it to get into the PPSP? In 2021, Forbes reported it had an acceptance rate of just 1% !

View more top pre-med schools to get an idea of where you might want to apply. And to get an idea of your chances of admission at various universities, we recommend using our free admissions calculator . By inputting your grades, extracurriculars, and more, we’ll estimate your odds of acceptance, and help you improve your candidate profile.

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How to Choose a Graduate School: 7 Tips for Success

So you’ve made the decision to go to grad school. You’ve weighed your options , researched the benefits of a graduate education , and discovered the value of having an advanced degree . Now it’s time to choose which program to pursue—a task that can seem overwhelming given the number of options available.

But the process doesn’t have to be so daunting. There are actions you can take to make choosing a graduate degree program more manageable—exciting, even. As you take the next step toward your personal and professional goals, take note of the following tips to help you choose a graduate school and degree program best suited for you.

Difference Between Grad School and Undergrad Programs

Before you start searching for the right graduate school for you, it’s essential to know what to expect for this new career trajectory you’ll be embarking on. Unlike an undergraduate program, grad programs are highly specialized and much more advanced in your field of study.

Prospective graduate students can expect a far more individualized experience as they work closely with students and professors. Due to this specialization, entering a graduate program will be an investment of time that’ll ultimately help elevate your expertise and career choices.

Tips for Choosing a Graduate School

1. Take inventory of your passions and motivations.

Pursuing a graduate education is a big investment, so it’s critical to understand the unique “ why ” behind your decision. What do you hope to achieve by going back to school? Whether you’d like to gain more specialized knowledge, change careers, earn a promotion, increase your salary potential, or achieve a lifelong personal goal, make sure the program you choose will help get you there.

Examine the curricula and course descriptions of various degree programs, and assess how each offering aligns with your passions and interests. Graduate school is challenging, but it will feel more manageable if you’re working toward something that matters to you. Understanding your expectations and what you want to get out of the program is the first step in choosing a degree that will be a good fit.

2. Do your research and explore your options.

Once you’ve determined your motivations for returning to school, leave yourself time to research the types of degree programs available in your preferred area of study and the opportunities each can create.

Resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook can give you a sense of typical career paths by industry, along with the educational degree requirements for each. The handbook also provides market growth forecasts and earning potential to help inform your decision.

It’s also important to note the structure and focus of each program. Even in the same discipline, a program’s focus can vary among institutions. Does the curriculum emphasize theory, original research, or a more practical application of knowledge? Whatever your goals may be, make sure the program’s focus aligns with the educational experience that will provide you with the most value. Career changers, for example, who likely don’t have industry experience, might prefer a program with access to hands-on learning opportunities or a path for completing prerequisites like Northeastern’s Align and Bridge programs.

While conducting your research, don’t be afraid to utilize your professional network. Speak with colleagues who have pursued an advanced degree in your industry and reach out to alumni of the institutions you’re considering. Listening to their experiences as a graduate student and in the job market post-degree can help you gauge if the program is in line with your goals.

3. Keep your career goals in mind.

After exploring your range of program options, consider your career goals and how each specific graduate program can help you get there.

If you’re seeking a specialized area of focus, be sure to examine the program concentrations offered at each institution. One graduate program in education might prepare you to specialize in higher education administration or elementary instruction, while other institutions may offer concentrations in special education or classroom technology. Make sure the program you choose reflects your career interests.

Alternatively, if you’re unsure of exactly where your career path may take you, you may want to consider a broader degree that can give you flexibility in its application. Some degree programs, such as a Master of Business Administration , teach skills that can be applied across multiple professions. If this is the path you’d prefer to pursue, pick a degree that will remain relevant as you move around in your career.

Examine the types of credentials professionals in the industry possess and research the types of skills potential employers are looking for. Check to see that the degree program offers opportunities to learn and develop those same skills. You’ll want to make sure the program you’re investing your time in will arm you with the knowledge you can actually apply in the real world.

Some professions also require board certification and/or state licensure. For example, someone interested in becoming a ​​project manager must complete 35 hours of relevant training before gaining eligibility to sit for the certification exam. You’ll want to ensure that the graduate program you ultimately decide on is fully accredited and will help you meet any certification or licensure requirements.

Location is also an important factor to consider when thinking about potential employment opportunities after graduation. Individuals interested in financial services may consider schools in a major banking center, such as Charlotte , while those pursuing a technology career might look for programs in Silicon Valley .

Further, if your goal is to work for a specific company, do your research to determine where graduates of the programs you’re looking at are working. Universities often have corporate partnerships in which employers recruit graduates to work at their organization. Check to see if your dream company partners with any nearby universities.

4. Make sure the program fits your lifestyle.

While aligning your career goals, make sure the degree program you choose will realistically fit within your lifestyle, and determine what level of flexibility you need. There are many options available that will allow you to earn an advanced degree at the right pace and in the right format for you.

Some degrees can be earned in as little as 12 months, while others can take years. Determine how much time you’re willing to invest, considering your personal values, work and family commitments, and the type of graduate experience you’d like to have.

Full-time graduate studies are not for everyone. If you’re a working professional, you may benefit from the increased flexibility provided by a part-time degree program. You might also consider the benefits of online or hybrid graduate programs that provide access to worldwide institutions that may have otherwise not been an option.

5. Consider your finances.

Decide what you can afford for graduate school, and don’t forget to factor in both the up-front costs, such as tuition and textbooks, and hidden fees, like transportation and student activity costs. While your education is an investment, make sure you can cover the costs associated with earning your graduate degree.

Paying for graduate school can seem intimidating, but there are many different options available to you. While you narrow down your list of schools, be sure to check out the financial aid options at each institution. Along with scholarships , loans, and grants, some schools may offer assistantships or fellowships for graduate students.

For those who may already be working in their industry, your employer may offer tuition reimbursement , which pays for a predetermined amount of continuing education credits or college coursework to be applied toward a degree. Contact your company’s human resources department to determine whether tuition reimbursement is available to you and if your program of interest meets the eligibility requirements.

All of these options will help ease the costs associated with your education and could help you earn valuable experience to enhance your resumé. You may also want to consider your future earning potential and job opportunities when weighing your options—you want your degree to be worth the money, time, and energy you put into earning it.

6. Talk to admissions advisors, students, and alumni.

When determining your graduate school options, it’s important to talk to current students and alumni. Begin by creating a list of questions to ask, such as:

• Do you have enough academic and career guidance?
• What do you like and dislike about your program?
• Are you happy with your professors?
• Are there co-op and internship opportunities available to you?
• How do you feel about the student community?
• What do you wish you knew before enrolling?

What students and alumni tell you might surprise you and could be extremely valuable in determining the right graduate school for you.

Speak With a Student Ambassador

 Talk to an ambassador who’s been there and done that.

You can also speak with graduate admissions advisors to help you narrow your options. They have experience guiding students to make this type of decision and can provide you with the outcomes of past students whose goals were similar to yours. In speaking with the institution’s alumni and mentor network, you also have the opportunity to assess the type of connections you can make there and how they may help you get ahead after graduation.

7. Network with faculty.

Faculty can make or break your graduate school experience. Take the time to reach out to your potential professors and get to know them. Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions about their background to see if it aligns with what you want to learn.

Apply to universities that have one or more professors who focus on your area of interest and with whom you can imagine collaborating while earning your degree. Determine if they can help facilitate your growth, and go with a program where you’re comfortable with the faculty.

Applying to Graduate School

After narrowing down your options and determining which graduate programs align most closely with your career goals, lifestyle, and personal interests, you’re ready to begin the application process. It might seem intimidating, but applying to graduate school is simple so long as you remain organized and are well-prepared.

While the application requirements may look different depending on the institution and type of degree program you’re applying to, there are certain materials that you’ll likely be asked for as part of your grad school application. These include:

• An application form
• Undergraduate transcripts
• A well-optimized professional resumé
• A statement of purpose or personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• GRE, GMAT, or LSAT test scores (if required)
• An application fee

Do your research to determine what the application requirements are for your program of choice, and remain conscious of deadlines. 

Remember that Graduate School Is a Stepping Stone

When deciding which program to pursue, it’s important to remember that graduate school is a stepping stone toward your personal and professional goals—not the final destination. That said, the clearer you are on what you want to do following graduation, the easier it will be to find a program that aligns with your goals.

Start early, keep your search organized , and reach out for support. In the end, only you can decide which program will be best for you. No matter what program you choose to pursue, with commitment, resilience, and hard work, you can find success.

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Top 10 Easiest PhD Degrees to Earn?

Emmanuel Onalo

September 27, 2023

Earning a PhD degree is not easy if you don’t know what to do. Professors, researchers, and scientists need a Ph.D. to work in settings such as universities, research institutions, and nonprofits.

Earning a Ph.D. typically takes 4–7 years.

Accelerated Ph.D. programs allow degree-seekers to save time and money. The fastest Ph.D. programs allow students to enter the workforce earlier and begin building their postdoctoral careers.

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Anything worth working for is not always easy, right? Your chosen doctoral program is one of the most important decisions you can make along your educational journey.

Although most accredited online Ph.D. programs are rather costly, some are easier than others, as well as less time-consuming and less expensive.

Typically, there are three areas of concentration that students focus on in search of an “easy” doctoral degree program through an online distance learning format. Specifically, they are in the fields of humanities, social sciences, and education (EDD).

One of the fastest ways to earn a doctorate is by matriculating into a program with graduate-level credits and having previous academic or research experience. Students can also find programs that offer an accelerated option.

Online doctoral degree programs, the highest attainable degree in America’s educational system, are the peak of an academic challenge as well. This prestigious postgraduate achievement requires students to produce a long-term effort to define, develop, and complete original and significant research in their area of expertise. Therefore, “easiest online doctorate programs’ can sound like a contradiction in terms. However, due to the nature of online Ph.D. programs, some amount of flexibility, accessibility, and availability can make online doctoral programs somewhat easier to finish.

Table of Contents

What are the top 10 easiest PhD degrees to earn ?

1. doctor of nursing (dnp) program through the maryville university of st. louis.

This is one of the easiest distance-learning doctoral programs. Its 33-credit-hour curriculum is ideal for working nurses who want to take higher courses for career advancement. Are there 12-month online DNP programs available? Yes! Since online learning is often self-paced, you can attain a DNP program in 12 months, but we will say that “easy” completion of this nursing program can be attained in 20 months. On the other hand, the Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership is an easy doctorate as it features personalized coaching in a cohort learning model-based online setting. This degree can be through in less than 32 months. Maryville University gets its accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program through Seton Hall University

This is an online PhD program for students and working adults who want to acquire the highest clinical degree in the nursing field. Students learn advanced knowledge in population health, business and evidence-based approaches, and healthcare systems. Accredited by the university and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Seton Hall University’s DNP doctorate program features two pathways, namely the BSN to DNP pathway with 73 to 79 credits and the MSN to DNP pathway with 32 to 33 credits. Easy completion of the degree program can be expected through a final scholarly project that mainly focuses on quality improvement and translational science for the advancement of care systems, safety, and patient outcomes. On the other hand, the Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management, and Policy has only 45 credits, with topics that develop students’ research-based administrative and supervisory skills. There are two unique areas of focus, namely management and administration and college teaching, that can be through in three years or less.

3. Ph.D. in Theology & Apologetics, and Ph.D. in Worship Studies

Another doctorate degree that is purely online in format is the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) program, Ph.D. in Theology and Apologetics, and Ph.D. in Worship Studies. Doctoral students can hone their ministry skills and acquire an effective understanding of the biblical principles required to land pastoral roles. Students also engage with known church leaders while pursuing their doctorates. The 33-credit curriculum comes with a nine-hour credit thesis and six transferable credits. Utilizing the Blackboard platform, Liberty Flames accepts 45 to 70 credits. Liberty University Ph.D. programs get accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and allow for completion of the online doctorate program within two to three years.

4. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the College of St. Scholastica

This tDPT program is for practicing therapists.  Learning is easier since the program curriculum parts into six, 16-credit-hour classes. The doctorate can be over in two years. The doctorate is for intensive career preparation and hands-on experiences in the field of physical therapy. The university gets accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

5. Executive Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership ABD completion program at Gwynedd Mercy University

This completion program is ideal for those who were able to complete their coursework in the same field but need to work on their dissertation. What makes this program an easy one to take is that it does not focus on the completed dissertation, as the university itself permits students to leave their ABD (all but dissertation) status and still obtain a doctorate in education. In 18 months, students can complete 27 to 54 credit hours of coursework and practical experience. Students can also complete their doctorate through comprehensive research, school administration, or policy analysis. The university gets accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree program under the College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the Boston University

10 courses make up the 33- to 37-credit program curriculum. Aside from this, students can also complete six foundation courses, depending on past educational experiences, before taking up a doctorate. Learning is easier because online students can take two courses every semester, with each semester lasting seven weeks.

7. Doctor of Social Work and Global Executive Doctor of Education degree programs at the University of Southern California

The Doctor of Social Work can be easily through in two to three years through numerous specializations. The coursework can be accomplished with full-time pacing and students can access an open virtual community through the Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. As for the Global Executive Doctor of Education, students get the opportunity to travel abroad for 25 months. The university gets accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

8. Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Management degree programs with nine fields of specialization at Drexel University

The coursework can be quickly completed in four 10-week quarters a year, allowing students to take more courses within a short timeframe. This Ed.D. program can be completed in three to five years. It does not require residency, and all coursework and dissertation requirements can be completed online. Students also become part of cohort systems, exposing them to academic network opportunities. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

9. Doctor of Education in Adult and Lifelong Leadership and Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at the University of Arkansas

 The Adult and Lifelong Leadership online doctorate can be completed in 30 months, while the Educational Leadership doctorate can be completed in 36. The university has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree program California Intercontinental University

It provides numerous opportunities for online Ph.D. scholars to major in a specific area that is most appropriate for their research and career objectives. Some specializations include Entrepreneurship and Business Management, Global Business and Leadership, Healthcare Management and Leadership, and Information Systems and Enterprise Resource Management.

The online DBA program features state-of-the-art online resources for convenient learning. It is ideal for veterans, working professionals, Department of Defense employees, as well as military service members and their families. The degree program can be completed in 24 months. California Intercontinental University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

You can also take advantage of the KU Leuven PhD Scholarships 2022/2023 for Students from Developing Countries if you are looking for a free scholarship.

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Tips to help you finish your phd faster, 1. keep your topic as narrow as possible.

Believe me, as much as you want to save the world, nobody wants to spend 10 years doing their Ph.D. So, let’s keep this straight and simple. Focus your thesis on one specific scientific problem. First, get the question right. Are you trying to challenge existing literature? Do you have enough scientific resources to support your hypothesis? Next, make up your mind. What direction are you going to take? Are you positioning yourself as the antagonist or the protagonist? Then you can start from there. Narrowing your topic helps you sift through your resources and filter out issues that won’t matter in the end.

2. Write a funding proposal ahead of time

Many people will tell you that your funding application should only come after completing your Ph.D. Don’t fall into this trap. The government, including great organizations, foundations, and private corporations, can offer you a funding opportunity for your research while you are doing your Ph.D.

Writing a thesis can never feel so real unless you also have your funding proposal on hand. For more motivation, you can check out BioTeckNika’s scholarship programs and funding offers. Who knows? You might stumble upon an offer that can take your Ph.D. journey to a whole new level.

3. Have your thesis examined from time to time

A smarter way to avoid major revisions in the future is to keep your thesis in check. Consult your supervisor if you make minor progress. For example, if you’re done with the Review of Related Literature, I suggest you send it to your supervisor right away for checking.

This gives you the opportunity to correct minor mistakes at the earliest opportunity rather than discovering them only too late. Also, check with your science department for updates aew discoveries that could add more direction to your thesis. Keeping your thesis updated helps you avoid inevitable delays caused by sudden changes in the course of your journey.

Are you confused about the choice of PhD degree to pursue? Take advantage of the top 10 easiest PhD degrees shared in this post. You can choose any of the degrees featured in this post. The beautiful part is that you cly complete your studies in 1-2 years.

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MPower Finance  and Prodigy Finance are some of the best student loan providers for international students. They also do not require a cosigner or collateral before an application. Reach out to us today, and let’s help you get started. 

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Comparing the differences between MD vs. PhD vs. professional doctorate

By Michael Feder

This article has been vetted by University of Phoenix's editorial advisory committee.  Read more about our editorial process.

Reviewed by Marc Booker, PhD, Vice Provost, Strategy

At a glance

• MD is the abbreviation for Doctor of Medicine and PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy. These are two types of doctoral degrees in addition to professional doctorates. 
• An MD is a doctoral degree for medical professionals, while a PhD is an academic degree focused on original research. Somewhat similar to a PhD are professional doctorates, which focus on applying practical research to problems in workplaces or communities.   
• A professional or practice-based doctorate (EdD, DBA, etc.) can be medical, and others are for scholar-practitioners in disciplines like education, business or psychology.
• University of Phoenix does not offer MD or PhD programs, but students can earn a doctorate in business, nursing, education or healthcare that allows them to build upon their industry expertise. Learn more about the differences between these degree programs and if one of the  five doctoral programs  at University of Phoenix is right for you !

What is a doctorate? Breaking down the three types

Some people might confuse an  MD (Doctor of Medicine)  with a  PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) , and vice versa. While both an MD and a PhD are prestigious degrees near the top of the  academic ladder , they each have a different meaning and come with very  different requirements .

Different still from both of those degrees are professional doctorates, which allow industry professionals to translate their education and experience into credibility and leadership through research. Professional doctorates have similar requirements to PhDs, such as a dissertation and residency, but focus on the application of research and professional growth over original research.

Upon graduation, those who have earned any of these three degrees can call themselves a “doctor,” but the path to a degree, the purpose behind it and its applications vary based on the choice. MD graduates want to work in medicine and healthcare. PhDs want to bring new knowledge and research to the world. A practice-based doctoral graduate wants to grow in their professional expertise. (If the last one sounds like you, University of Phoenix can help!)

Keep reading to learn more about these doctoral programs and which is right for you.

What does MD stand for?

MD is an abbreviation for Doctor of Medicine and identifies a  medical practitioner  who has completed undergraduate studies and four years of medical school. An MD program teaches medical students about the human body and diseases through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical labs.

Several  types of physicians  might have this degree, depending on their area of study. For example, medical practitioners with an MD degree might become a medical doctor and potentially specialize in dermatology, cardiovascular disease, family medicine, oncology, pediatrics, neurology or preventive medicine. As you can see, this degree  can lead to a variety of career paths , depending on which specialty interests you and what your medical education is.

Learn more about online doctoral degrees at University of Phoenix. 

How to earn an MD

Becoming a Doctor of Medicine  requires a significant investment of time and money, but the reward can be well worth it. Before medical school, you’ll need to  take the Medical College Admission Test  (MCAT ® ) and earn a passing score. You’ll also need to build a portfolio of coursework and experience to help you gain admittance to medical school.

Medical school typically takes students four years to complete. You’ll learn the latest techniques and approaches for patient assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Medical schools commonly provide a combination of classroom,  research and clinical experience . You’ll work alongside peers and healthcare professionals as you develop skills in general medicine.

You’ll choose a field to specialize in during your final year of medical school. Students have more than 120 options to choose from when specializing, including  primary care,   pediatrics, geriatrics, emergency medicine and family medicine .

After graduating, you’ll complete residency training to further develop skills in your specialty. Residency typically lasts three to seven years, depending on the field you’ve selected. During the residency portion of your education, you’ll treat patients under the supervision of more experienced physicians.

Even after you begin to practice as an MD,  the educational portion of your career never stops . As practices change, patient needs evolve and research continues, MDs benefit from ongoing education to stay current.

What does PhD stand for?

A PhD, or  Doctor of Philosophy , is a doctoral degree that recognizes graduates who have completed a full postsecondary program. Students can earn a PhD in more fields than philosophy. After completing the necessary coursework, original research and hands-on experience, you can earn a PhD in fields like science, the humanities and engineering.

Earning a PhD can help unlock a wide range of potential career opportunities. Computer engineers, research scientists, statisticians, healthcare administrators, professors, chemists and other careers commonly require a PhD degree, in addition to appropriate undergraduate study.

How to earn a PhD

Becoming a PhD is also a  serious commitment  that requires an investment of  time, money and energy .

Here is what’s typically required to become a PhD:

• Complete a bachelor’s degree in your field
• Complete a master’s degree in an appropriate field
• Pass any program entrance exams
• Fulfill coursework, research and hands-on lab requirements in your program
• Finalize and defend your dissertation as a  doctoral candidate  (unless your program specifies otherwise)

It’s important to note that many PhD  programs have different requirements , prerequisites and parameters for students. Check with your preferred institution for a more detailed explanation of these requirements.

What is a professional doctorate?

While some professional or practice-based doctorate programs are medical,  others are designed for professionals in other fields . These programs are meant for  scholar-practitioners  in disciplines like education, business or psychology. One of the key differences between this degree and a PhD is the focus on applying research to a professional setting rather than conducting theoretical and research-focused studies. Often, programs are differentiated as academic versus professional.

Examples of doctoral degrees are Doctor of Education, Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Business Administration. Each of these programs focuses on a specific discipline and applying research in those areas to a professional setting.

How to earn a doctorate

While  practitioner doctoral programs  teach different skills, they all share common requirements. You’ll need to  complete a bachelor’s degree  in your field and sometimes a master’s degree, depending on program requirements.

After completing the necessary coursework and research, students also typically need to finish a supervised thesis and defend their dissertation or capstone project-specific coursework, research and hands-on labs alongside other students in the same field. However, this will depend on the specific program and its requirements.

What does the title “Dr.” really mean?

The term “doctor” or “Dr.” is commonly used today to describe a wide variety of occupations. Students who complete a doctoral degree can earn the title of “Dr.” even though they earned their credentials in a non-medical field like education or business management.

While a variety of professionals can earn a doctorate, the term is often still  reserved for medical practitioners . In conventional use,  doctors typically refer to medical physicians . However, it is appropriate to use “Dr.” if you graduated from any of the three programs discussed above.  

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What is doctoral candidacy?

Practitioner doctoral degree programs at university of phoenix.

While University of Phoenix (UOPX)  does not have  MD or PhD programs, it does offer several professional doctoral degrees that can be earned completely online. Students might choose the UOPX programs because classes are flexible and offered online, and because of the University’s unique “ Scholar-Practitioner-Leader model .”

If you are curious about a doctoral degree, the following programs are available at UOPX:

• Doctor of Business Administration  — This doctorate can help you gain strategic vision and skills to position yourself as a business leader. It explores how to solve organizational problems, how to design and conduct research studies, how to introduce innovative business ideas to the industry and more.
• Doctor of Management   — This doctorate equips you with critical thinking skills to find creative solutions to complex problems.
• Doctor of Education  — This doctoral program prepares you to use analytical, critical and innovative thinking to improve performance and solve complex problems in education.
• Doctor of Health Administration  — If you’re a health professional who is seeking greater responsibility in shaping the future of the health sector, this doctorate can help you meet the challenges inherent to today’s healthcare landscape, including economic fluctuations, burgeoning patient needs and industry-changing legislation.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice  — This doctorate is designed for working nurses who require a doctorate for advanced practice or nurses who desire their terminal degree. It does not prepare students for professional certification or state licensure as a nurse or as an advanced practice nurse.

These doctoral studies are only some of the many options for professionals who want to gain the  highest academic credentials  in their fields. Doctoral programs offer significant benefits to program graduates, including  newly developed skills , insight into field trends, hands-on research opportunities and  leadership capabilities .

Completing a doctoral program is also a strong indication to employers that you’re serious about your career and your field. With so many options for advanced study, these programs are available for most major fields. Even if you have already completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in your discipline, a doctorate lends further credibility to your reputation and  can help prepare you for a leadership position .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Feder is a content marketing specialist at University of Phoenix, where he researches and writes on a variety of topics, ranging from healthcare to IT. He is a graduate of the Johns Hopkins University Writing Seminars program and a New Jersey native!

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How to Decide if an MBA Is Worth it

Understand your financial and career goals before enrolling in an MBA program.

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A master's degree in business administration can be a great asset when looking for jobs but applicants should weigh the commitment of this opportunity.

Key Takeaways

• Earning an MBA is always a significant time investment.
• Consider career goals and costs before enrolling in an MBA program.
• An MBA may lead to salary, promotion or job market benefits.

An MBA is a game changer for many professionals – a way to build specialized skills, make salary gains and valuable professional connections, or even change careers.

But it's not the right fit for everyone. Before committing to graduate business school to pursue a master of business administration degree, it's important to consider the time commitment, costs, potential return on investment and your personal career goals, experts say.

"You don't do it because you don't have anything else to do," says Sue Oldham, associate dean of MBA operations at Vanderbilt University's Owen Graduate School of Management in Tennessee. "You are doing it because you really want this career pivot and you want to be doing something different."

What to Consider Before Applying to an MBA Program

Time commitment.

A full-time MBA program typically takes two years, although accelerated full-time programs can take a single year. Executive and part-time MBA programs, designed for professionals who are attending school while working a full-time job, vary in length depending on how many credits a student takes each semester. Online and hybrid programs are also options, but every pathway to an MBA is a significant time investment.

Students should consider whether it's the right "season of life" to commit to an MBA program, Oldham says.

"Are you at a place in your life where you can step out of the workforce for two years (for a full-time MBA) and invest in yourself like that?" she says. "I think that's why part-time MBA programs are a much better option for people that are like, 'Listen, I can't take two years off. I've got to work. I've got a family. I've got a mortgage.'"

Academic Needs

Before applying, build a list of schools that meet your educational requirements, such as location, class size and academic tracks that align with your career goals.

"Unless you are definitely bound and determined and headed toward one of the very few slots available at the Ivys , the world is at your disposal for what you need and want," says Jeanne Allen, founder and CEO of the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Education Reform, which focuses on expanding educational opportunities.

Allen says some non-Ivy League colleges and newer MBA programs may offer "a better service – they are better priced; they are accelerated in terms of graduating; they are personalized to your needs; they are often competency-based. And that's going to get you your best education."

Experts advise visiting prospective programs virtually or in person , especially while classes are in session.

"Spend some time getting to know the students, the alumni and the staff at the various schools, because I always think culture really matters and each school has its own unique culture," Oldham says. "You have to figure out what that school's culture is and say, 'Does this mesh with who I am, the way I learn and the way I want to work?'"

Return on Investment

According to the 2023 Corporate Recruiters Survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council, the organization that designs and administers the GMAT, MBA graduates had the highest median earning potential in the U.S. among business school graduates, with an estimated median starting salary of $125,000 in 2023. Hiring is expected to remain stable over the next five years.

To decide whether an MBA program offers good return on investment , consider tuition costs and potential starting salaries – which most schools track – and calculate the salary-to-debt ratio. The return on investment is calculated by dividing the average salary and signing bonus of recent grads by the average student debt of those who borrowed.

Per GMAC's 2023 Enrolled Students report – which surveyed more than 660 enrolled business graduate students or recent graduates in 36 countries – 90% of respondents rated the overall value of their graduate business degree as "good," "excellent" or "outstanding." In addition, median total compensation increased by one-third after graduate business training, with greater increases for full-time MBA students, according to the study.

The question is, "do you see the degree helping to advance your salary, your work experiences and your opportunities to make a difference, in the sense of being able to pay that (debt) down so that's not some overwhelming burden?" says Sean Schrader, an MBA student in his final year at the University of South Florida's Muma College of Business and president of the National Association of Graduate-Professional Students.

Postgraduation, he plans to study abroad before pursuing more graduate education in law school . Schrader's ultimate goal is to work in public and government service.

"A lot of people would say, 'Why would you want to get an MBA if you're more interested in government?'" he says. "That can be a fair point. But I think that the MBA gives you a lot of skills that are very relevant in almost any environment."

Benefits of an MBA

Skill and career development.

The best MBA programs help you develop entrepreneurial habits, Allen says. "They build your ability to move, develop and manage programs in more innovative ways. It's not so much about what skills (you gain), it's about what kind of learning is going to best set you up for an increasingly complex, technologically sophisticated society, where just about anybody can start a business, manage or create a product."

Andrew Walker, director of research analysis and communications at GMAC, says MBA candidates want to graduate with problem-solving, communication, data interpretation and leadership skills, among others.

"Employers say things like patience, data analytics and strategy are the most important skills that graduate management education alumni can have and bring to their organizations," he says. "And these skills are only going to grow in importance in the next five years or so. There is a lot of alignment with the type of skills that candidates are looking for out of business school and what employers are looking for, which to us (means) a lot of business schools really are on the right track with what they are teaching alumni to be successful."

With full-time programs in particular, students graduate "better prepared to work in a culturally diverse organization," Oldham says.

Even more valuable is that MBA programs also teach certain hard skills, says Daniel Snow, director of MBA programs at Brigham Young University's Marriott School of Business in Utah.

"I think that a lot of people out there think that an MBA program is about ticking boxes on a series of skills," he says. "And while our program and other top programs do give you those skills, the really important differentiator is when you come out of an MBA program with managerial judgment. You can look at a messy situation that hasn't been contemplated in your textbooks, find the core of the problem and then you can go after that problem leading an organization."

An MBA may bring salary, promotion or job market benefits. But "if you think you're going to get an MBA and it's automatically catapult you into a CEO job, that's a bad reason to get an MBA," Allen says. "It can't necessarily do that and doesn't. It all depends on who you are."

Success with an MBA "really is (about) what you put into it and whether or not it helps you advance things that you already can do, but you want to take it to another level completely," she says. "It doesn't teach you business. It builds a mindset and an understanding of business culture and exposure to what's happening in the world of business that you don't necessarily get just by reading on your own."

A New Professional Network

Experts say an MBA also helps students expand their professional networks and build new connections that may broaden their opportunities and advance their career goals .

Networks vary by school, and experts recommend considering that in your research. Some MBA programs have alumni living around the world, for instance, while others are more localized.

"It's not just quality, but where do you want to go live your career geographically?" Snow says. "The quality of the people that you are going to be around is related to the network. ... You don't want to just be some place where you are not going to be pushed. You want to be around people who are going to really push you, that are excellent, that are striving to do the same things that you are doing."

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