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A Ph.D. or doctoral degree is the highest degree you can obtain in an academic field. You can get a Ph.D. in nearly any subject, from nursing to English. Doctoral candidates complete original research under the direction of top scholars at their university.
More universities steadily add online offerings, and Ph.D. programs are no different. Online doctoral programs allow candidates to work through their Ph.D. on their own terms.
Reasons to get an online Ph.D.
- You'll become an expert in a field you're passionate about.
- You get to perform original research and make a difference in your field.
- Online doctoral programs let you set your own schedule and balance commitments with ease.
- You'll get to work with top scholars in your field.
- You'll be able to network with colleagues and classmates all over the world.
- You can work on your degree while still pursuing your career.
- Online doctoral degrees often offer accelerated programs for students.
- Tuition costs for online programs are often lower than those for in-person programs.
Did You Know?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those with a doctoral degree earn a median difference of $575 more per week than those with just a bachelor's degree. Doctorate-holders boast some of the lowest unemployment rates. 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
Accreditation Matters for Online Ph.D. Programs
Accreditation matters — even for online Ph.D. programs.
When a program is accredited, it meets the educational standards that other institutions adhere to. Accreditation ensures that potential employers and other academic institutions recognize the credentials an institution confers to its students.
Private, independent organizations all across the U.S. evaluate universities to make sure they meet these standards.
When it comes to getting a Ph.D. online, make sure your program is accredited. A doctorate is the highest level of education you can earn. If your program isn't accredited, your colleagues in the field and at other institutions likely won't take your degree seriously.
If your college is unaccredited, you also won't qualify for any licenses you may need.
Top Schools for Online Accredited Ph.D. Programs
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Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Amridge University
Montgomery, AL - 4 years
- Online
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $675-$780
Out of State | $675-$780
Credits to Graduate: 51-60
Amridge University has five online Ph.D. programs in organizational leadership and management, interdisciplinary studies, marriage and family therapy, professional counseling, and biblical studies. Each program offers a blend of online and on-campus courses in both full-time and part-time formats.
All of Amridge's online Ph.D. programs have 12 credits of dissertation modules and a thesis requirement. For admission, you typically need a graduate degree from a related program and a writing sample. You must also pass an interview.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Andrews University
Berrien Springs, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $1,428
Out of State | $1,428
Credits to Graduate: 60-90
At Andrews University, online students can choose from among five Ph.D. programs in business administration, curriculum and instruction, higher education administration, educational leadership, and leadership. While most programs consist of 60-61 credits, candidates for a Ph.D. in leadership without a related master's degree must take 90 credits.
For admission, you typically need a master's degree with a minimum 3.3 GPA. Candidates must also submit three letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose. GRE test scores may be required for certain online Ph.D. programs.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Boston University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
Avg. Cost per year:
In State | $37,838-$61,050
Out of State | $37,838-$61,050
Credits to Graduate: 32-64
Boston University offers three online Ph.D. programs: social work, mechanical engineering, and occupational therapy. While engineering and social work students must complete dissertation and teaching requirements, occupational therapy students must complete mentored research, a research manuscript, and a practicum.
For admission, you need a master's degree in a related field, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. You may also need a writing sample. Engineering applicants may pursue a Ph.D. directly after their bachelor's degree but need additional credits, including the requirements for a master's in engineering.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Capitol Technology University
Laurel, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $933
Out of State | $933
Credits to Graduate: 60
Capitol Technology University offers a whopping 35 online Ph.D. programs, including computer science, engineering, and business. Program options include artificial intelligence, manufacturing, product management, and systems engineering. Capitol Tech's programs run entirely online, with no on-campus requirements.
Online Ph.D. students must complete a dissertation or publish three original research papers. For admission, you need a master's degree in a related field, two letters of recommendation, and at least five years of relevant experience.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Clemson University
Clemson, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $521-$955
Out of State | $521-$955
Credits to Graduate: 56-60
Clemson University offers six online Ph.D. programs, including healthcare genetics, special education, and teaching and learning. Depending on the program, students may take synchronous online classes or a mix of on-campus and online classes.
Admission requirements vary, but you'll typically need a master's degree with a minimum 3.5 GPA. You also must submit letters of recommendation and a statement of intent. Clemson's online teaching programs require at least two years of teaching experience.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $945-$1,118
Out of State | $945-$1,118
Credits to Graduate: 60-72
Colorado State University students have access to three online Ph.D. programs in higher education leadership; systems engineering; and learning, performance, and change. While systems engineering courses run entirely online, the other two programs feature a mix of online and on-campus classes.
CSU offers asynchronous and synchronous classes. Each online Ph.D. program requires a dissertation. Admission requirements vary, but you'll generally need a master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants will also need varying levels of professional experience.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Eastern Virginia Medical School
Norfolk, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $975-$1,422
Out of State | $975-$1,598
Credits to Graduate: 47-60
Eastern Virginia Medical School offers online Ph.D. programs in reproductive clinical science, higher education, contemporary human anatomy education, and ultrasound imaging education. All programs have dissertation requirements and involve a mix of asynchronous and synchronous classes.
To apply, you need a master's degree in a related field with a minimum 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, and one or more personal essays. Candidates may also need work experience, letters of support, and writing samples.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Faulkner University
Montgomery, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $575-780
Out of State | $575-780
Credits to Graduate: 45-54
Faulkner University has three online Ph.D. programs: biblical studies, humanities, and health sciences. Each program runs entirely online and includes a dissertation requirement. The accelerated programs allow full-time students to graduate within 18 months to three years.
Applicants must have a master's degree in a related field with a minimum 3.0 or 3.25 GPA. You'll also need to submit letters of recommendation, a goals statement, and a writing sample.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $303.71
Out of State | $303.71
Credits to Graduate: 72 post-bachelor's credits, including 18 post-master's credits
At Florida Atlantic University, students can choose between three online Ph.D. programs: computer science, computer engineering, and electrical engineering. These programs run entirely online and follow an asynchronous course format. Ph.D. students must complete at least 24 credits related to their dissertation.
To get in, applicants must have a master's degree in a related field with a minimum 3.3 GPA. You also must submit letters of recommendation and complete the appropriate prerequisite courses. Each program offers a bachelor's-to-Ph.D. pathway.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $438
Out of State | $569
Credits to Graduate: 63-72
Indiana State University has three online Ph.D. programs: higher education leadership, school administration, and technology management. Each online program features on-campus requirements, such as intensive workshops, residency seminars, and in-person classes. Students must also complete a dissertation in all three programs.
Applicants need a master's degree in a related field with a minimum 3.25-3.5 GPA. Depending on the program, you may also need a teaching license, work experience, GRE or GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and/or a written statement.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $1,223
Out of State | $1,223
Credits to Graduate: 54-60
At Keiser University, you can choose from among five online Ph.D. programs: criminal justice and criminology, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, industrial and organizational psychology, and instructional design and technology. To graduate, you must complete research courses and a dissertation, in addition to foundational and core courses.
While most classes run online, you'll need to attend campus for two residencies. You typically need a master's degree in a relevant field to be admitted. Some programs offer bachelor's-to-Ph.D. pathways, which may require a minimum 3.0 GPA and additional coursework.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $395-$595
Out of State | $395-$595
Credits to Graduate: 48-60
Liberty University offers 65+ online programs and concentrations, including options in public administration, Christian leadership, and aviation. Each program features core, advanced focus, research, and dissertation courses.
You can complete your degree entirely online via eight-week classes. There are no on-campus requirements. For admission, you need a master's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Some programs may ask for writing samples and prerequisite courses.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $506-$514
Out of State | $506-514
Credits to Graduate: 32-61
Mississippi State Online offers 14 online Ph.D. programs and concentrations, such as plant and soil sciences, community college leadership, and engineering. While the core curricula vary by program, each program requires you to complete 20 research and dissertation credits.
Online students benefit from access to MSU's libraries and dissertation workshops. For admission, you need a master's degree, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Northcentral University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $1,085-$1,283
Out of State | $1,085-$1,283
Credits to Graduate: 60
Northcentral University has 12 Ph.D. online programs available. Options include human resources management, cybersecurity, and data science. Each program features dissertation requirements, and many offer specialization opportunities.
For direct-entry admission, you'll need a master's degree in a relevant field. You may qualify for further evaluation if you have a degree in an unrelated discipline, but this usually requires you to complete additional courses.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $936-$1,505
Out of State | $936-$1,505
Credits to Graduate: 51-76
Nova Southeastern University offers nine online Ph.D. programs, including nursing, computer science, and criminal justice. Each program has a dissertation component, and some offer specialization opportunities. While most programs and classes run entirely online, some Ph.D. programs, like nursing, have an annual 2-3 day residency requirement.
For admission, you typically need a master's degree in a relevant field with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You may also need to submit two reference letters, a writing sample, and a personal statement. Work experience or professional licensure may be required as well.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $571
Out of State | $595
Credits to Graduate: 48-54
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $670-$950
Out of State | $670-950
Credits to Graduate: 51-67
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Saybrook University
Pasadena, CA - 4 years
- Online
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $1,009-$1,514
Out of State | $1,009-$1,514
Credits to Graduate: 60-78
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $718-$853
Out of State | $1,247-$1,382
Credits to Graduate: 64
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $263-353
Out of State | $263-$353
Credits to Graduate: 60-72
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $440
Out of State | $440
Credits to Graduate: 72
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $815-$835
Out of State | $890-$910
Credits to Graduate: 48-85
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $434-$620
Out of State | $434-$620
Credits to Graduate: 66-69
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $556
Out of State | $556
Credits to Graduate: 42-72
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $498
Out of State | $498
Credits to Graduate: 60-90
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $572
Out of State | $572
Credits to Graduate: 60
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs of 2023
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY - 4 years
- Online
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In State | $325-$500
Out of State | $325-$500
Credits to Graduate: 60-66
How Much Does an Online Ph.D. Cost?
In general, you can expect to pay a total of $60,000-$200,000 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 discounts to residents. Make sure you also submit the FAFSA each year so you can secure federal financial aid.
As an online student, you might encounter additional fees, like per-semester technology fees. You'll also need a computer or laptop and potentially certain software to go with it.
Lastly, you may need to budget for occasional travel to and from campus and research sites, especially as you work on your dissertation.
Popular Online Ph.D. Programs to Check Out
What Jobs Can You Get After Earning a Ph.D. Online?
Once you finish your online doctoral program, you can explore a variety of career paths, both within and outside academia.
Many Ph.D. grads, 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 $101,000 a year, according to Payscale.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2021) | Job Growth Rate (2021-2031) |
|---|---|---|
| Political Scientists | $122,510 | 6% |
| Economists | $105,630 | 6% |
| Biochemists and Biophysicists | $102,270 | 15% |
| Postsecondary Education Administrators | $96,910 | 7% |
| Mathematicians and Statisticians | $96,280 | 31% |
| Medical Scientists | $95,310 | 17% |
| Psychologists | $81,040 | 6% |
| Postsecondary Teachers | $79,640 | 12% |
| Epidemiologists | $78,830 | 26% |
| Historians | $63,940 | 4% |
| Anthropologists and Archaeologists | $61,910 | 6% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
So Are Online Ph.D. Programs Worth It?
If you want to pursue a Ph.D. on your own time and with a budget in mind, an online Ph.D. program may be worth it. However, keep in mind that some disciplines require hands-on experience in the field or lab that may not be possible through an online program.
An Online Ph.D. May Be Worth It If …
You are passionate about your area of research. You want to set your own schedule. You need to fit studies into your daily life. You are on a tight budget. You are self-motivated and a self-starter.
An Online Ph.D. May Not Be Worth It If …
The program is not accredited. You can't work independently. You can't concentrate at home. You have difficulty prioritizing work and meeting deadlines on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs
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 legitimate.
With more universities turning toward online programs to serve a more diverse student body's needs, there are a growing number of legitimate, accredited online Ph.D. programs.
Online Ph.D. programs, like any other doctoral program, can vary in length but typically last 5-7 years. 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.
A Ph.D. is a type of doctorate. Ph.D. stands for doctor of philosophy. Traditionally, a Ph.D. can be conferred on a student working in any field except theology, law, or medicine. Students working in disciplines like the social sciences, history, English, and the natural sciences earn Ph.D.s.
Schools can also confer other types of doctorates, like a doctor of education, doctor of juridical science, or doctor of nursing practice.
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.
It takes a high level of discipline and persistence to obtain a doctorate, 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.