fastest phd ever

The 20 Fastest Ph.D. Programs in 2023

Find your perfect school.

Updated by Chief Editor, Malcolm Peralty | 9 min read

Are you searching for one of the fastest Ph.D. programs to complete so you can get that job promotion you’ve been working towards? Finishing a Ph.D. program is the crowning achievement for ambitious scholars seeking the uppermost echelon of academic, government, clinical, and private-sector leadership jobs.

The US News states the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree can take between six or more years on average to complete. Traditional Ph.D. curricula involve nearly 100 credits of advanced seminars, research assistantships, and hefty dissertation work. Statisticsolutions.com reported that just 56.6 percent of Ph. D.s actually graduate in 10 years.

Fortunately, online learning has promoted the creation of Ph.D. shortcuts at many legitimate universities. Shortening the Ph.D. length can increase your chance of graduating and save you from the high $84,000 or more average debt reported by credible.com . Therefore, this article is devoted to finding the fastest Ph.D. programs that will accelerate your path to higher education’s most prestigious degree!

Quick Jumps to the schools that made our list along with the fast Ph.D. programs they offer!

• Columbia University – PhD in Computer Science
• University of North Dakota – PhD in Biomedical Engineering
• University of Missouri – PhD in Nursing
• Hampton University – PhD in Educational Management
• American University – PhD in Communication
• Old Dominion University – PhD in Instructional Design and Technology
• Lesley University – PhD in Expressive Therapies
• Colorado State University – PhD in Systems Engineering
• Mississippi State University – Ph.D. in Community College Leadership
• Nova Southeastern University – PhD in Criminal Justice
• Clemson University – PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management
• Oregon State University – PhD in Counseling
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania – PhD in Safety Sciences
• University of Northern Colorado – PhD in Special Education
• Union Institute & University – PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies
• Indiana State University – PhD in Technology Management
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – PhD in Aviation
• Liberty University – PhD in Public Policy
• University of South Carolina – PhD in Nuclear Engineering
• Indiana Wesleyan University – PhD in Organizational Leadership

Methodology

• First, our team used Peterson’s database to collect data on 618 online graduate schools that offer doctorates. This list was narrowed by eliminating programs that didn’t specifically confer a Ph.D. In other words, we nixed Ph.D. alternatives like the Doctor of Business Administration and Doctor of Education.
• Next, we judged each doctorate’s academic quality by removing those lacking regional accreditation . Only not-for-profit colleges with traditional campuses for doctoral resources were chosen.
• Then, we looked for accelerated Ph.D. paths that could take three years or less. Searching for shorter courses, post-master’s tracks, multiple start times, and ample credit transfers was our goal to accelerate.
• We also picked PhDs in wide-ranging fields and diverse prices to list something for everyone on any budget.

Ranked by estimated duration, these are our Fastest Ph.D. Programs where graduation could be only 36 instead of 108 months away. For more information, see our Methodology page!

The 20 Fastest Ph.D. Programs

Columbia university.

PhD in Computer Science

Ranked 12th by the U.S. News & World Report, the Fu Foundation School of Engineering & Applied Science at Columbia University provides a fast-track Ph.D. in Computer Science for its MS graduates with a minimum of 3.3 GPAs.

The 30-credit doctorate chaired by Dr. Rocco Servedio starts each Spring or Fall with 4000-level Columbia Video Network courses and one-on-one research advising.

Available specializations, including:

• Machine Learning,
• Network Security,
• and Computational Biology, take only two years.

Learn more about Columbia University’s Fast Ph.D. degree program in Computer Science.

University of North Dakota

PhD in Biomedical Engineering

The College of Engineering & Mines at the University of North Dakota, America’s 185th top research institute on Forbes, logs into Blackboard for a quick Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering overseen by Dr. Hesham El-Rewini.

Open until August 1st, December 1st, or May 1st, the 60-credit, post-master’s program meets ABET standards for medical device innovation.

Within just two years, graduates can advance at Siemens, Baxter International, Pfizer, Philips, and others for a median $82,000 salary.

Would you like more information about the University of North Dakota’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering program? Take a look!

University of Missouri

PhD in Nursing

Founded in 1901, the Sinclair School of Nursing at the University of Missouri ranks 108th nationally on Niche for seven degrees, including the accelerated Ph.D. in Nursing that enhances clinical research skills.

The 56-credit, post-MSN program administered by Dr. Sarah Thompson takes registered nurses only two years full-time.

Canvas courses focused on:

• Population Wellness,
• Health Systems Innovation,
• or Symptom & Behavior Science are paired with two four-day Columbia intensives annually.

To learn more about the PhD Programs at the University of Missouri, check out their Ph.D. in Nursing.

Hampton University

PhD in Educational Management

Chaired by Dr. Linda Malone-Colon, the School of Liberal Arts & Education at Hampton University, Times Higher Education’s 191st top pick, offers Blackboard access to a speedy Ph.D. in Educational Management lasting 2.5 years.

The 66-credit, CAEP-accredited curriculum immerses certified teachers in four concentrations:

• Higher Education,
• PreK-12 Education,
• STEM Leadership,
• or Special Education.

Apply before January 15th with GRE scores above 150 to begin accelerated, nine-week courses on school reform methods.

Learn more about Hampton University’s Ph.D. Program offering a graduate degree in Educational Management.

American University

PhD in Communication

Named America’s #1 most politically active on The Princeton Review, American University started the Three-Year Ph.D. in Communication in 2011 within the ACEJMC-accredited School of Communication.

The 54-credit, full-time program organized by Dr. Kathryn Montgomery accepts post-master’s candidates until December 15th yearly.

Blended courses in DC and on Blackboard follow an 11-month calendar year for three fast emphases:

• Public Engagement,
• Media Institutions,
• or Media Technology & Culture.

Do you need an accelerated Ph.D. in Communications? See American University’s fast Ph.D. Programs.

Old Dominion University

PhD in Instructional Design & Technology

Old Dominion University grants a 60-credit Ph.D. in Instructional Design & Technology online via the Darden College of Education, which ranks 105th on the U.S. News & World Report with 580 graduates enrolled.

Headed by Dr. Jane Bray, the 2008 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year, the post-master’s option logs into Monarch Key accounts for live meetings.

Interactive Web courses like Distance Education and Learning Assessment end with a dissertation in as little as three years.

Learn more about the Ph.D. programs at Old Dominion University. They offer an exceptional Ph.D. program in Instructional Design and Technology.

Lesley University

PhD in Expressive Therapies

The Graduate School of Arts & Social Sciences at Lesley University, Washington Monthly’s 129th best institution, created the Low-Residency Ph.D. in Expressive Therapies for counselors integrating the arts in mental health practice.

Managed by Dr. Michele Forinash, LMHC, the 45-credit program totaling $57,475 takes around 36 months for art therapists with 3-5 years of professional experience.

Courses are primarily on Blackboard with only one three-week Cambridge trip each summer.

Are you interested in earning a graduate degree in Expressive Therapies? Take a look at Lesley University’s Ph.D. degree program.

Colorado State University

PhD in Systems Engineering

Placed 216th for research influence by the CWUR, Colorado State University-Fort Collins awards 49 doctorates, including the Online Ph.D. in Systems Engineering, from the ABET-accredited Walter Scott Jr. College yearly.

This 72-credit degree outlined by Dr. David McLean transfers 30 master’s credits for accelerating toward dissertation completion in three years.

On-demand Canvas lectures like Energy Networks and IT Project Management are designed with input from 600+ industry leaders.

Learn more about Colorado State University’s Ph.D. in Systems Engineering degree program.

Mississippi State University

PhD in Community College Leadership

On Blackboard Learn 9.1, Mississippi State University awards the Ph.D. in Community College Leadership quickly via America’s 60th best College of Education on Niche for post-master’s teachers with cumulative GPAs above 3.3.

The 61-credit, CAEP-accredited curriculum overseen by Dr. Richard Blackbourn minimizes Starkville trips during courses like Personnel Diversity and Educational Data.

Individuals applying by October 1st or March 1st could enter junior institution administrative roles in as little as 36 months.

Mississippi State University has an excellent accelerated Ph.D. program in Community College Leadership. Check it out!

Nova Southeastern University

PhD in Criminal Justice

Bestowed the 2011 IAP Distance Education Award, the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences at Nova Southeastern University ranks 41st on the U.S. News & World Report for its three-year Ph.D. in Criminal Justice on Canvas.

The 60-credit program chaired by Dr. Kimberly Durham admits post-master’s Fall cohorts until May 22nd.

Graduates take two courses each 14-week trimester to accelerate three concentrations:

• Behavioral Sciences,
• Juvenile Justice,
• or Organizational Leadership.

Learn more about the accelerated Ph.D. Programs at Nova Southeastern University, particularly… their Ph.D. in Criminal Justice!

Clemson University

PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

Attracting 61 doctoral candidates, the Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management has gone digital after a 35-year, COAPRT-accredited history in the Graduate School at Clemson University, America’s 72nd best value in Money magazine.

The three-year plan devised by Dr. Wayne Freimund has 60 credits, including dissertation work, primarily on Canvas.

Applying for this fast doctorate requires a master’s GPAs over 3.0, at least 2,000 hours of recreation therapy experience, and NCTRC certification.

Do you have a passion for Tourism? See Clemson University’s Ph.D. program in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management .

Oregon State University

PhD in Counseling

The Oregon State University Ecampus connects to the CACREP-accredited College of Education, which places 130th nationally on the U.S. News & World Report, for three-year Ph.D. in Counseling cohorts ready to resolve human suffering.

Directed by Dr. Lisa Schulz, the 150-credit, the scholar-practitioner program has four 11-week quarters yearly for quick completion.

Master’s entrants with 600 previous internship hours apply by January 31st to begin Blackboard courses and two Wilsonville residencies per term.

Learn more about the Fastest Ph.D. in Counseling Program at Oregon State University.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

PhD in Safety Sciences

Crowned Forbes’ 238th best public school, Indiana University of Pennsylvania utilizes Blackboard Web conferencing in the ABET-accredited Engineering Department to award an Online Ph.D. in Safety Sciences within just three years.

The 54-credit degree managed by Dr. Jan Wachter enforces OSHA occupational health regulations in accelerated cohorts.

Post-master’s candidates with minimum “B” averages access courses like Epidemiological Analysis digitally with one-week summer workshops in Johnson Hall.

Learn more about the Ph.D. in Safety Sciences Program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Take a look!

University of Northern Colorado

PhD in Special Education

Given CAEP “Nationally Recognized” status, the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Northern Colorado landed 150th on the U.S. News & World Report for enrolling 888 online post-grads with a median 153 GRE score.

Particularly, the 77-credit Ph.D. in Special Education run by Dr. Silvia Correa-Torres takes as few as three years on the Extended Campus.

Certified P-12 teachers deepen disability awareness with nine fast courses like Law of Exceptionalities, an externship, and the dissertation.

Check out more about the Fastest PhD Programs at the University of Northern Colorado. They offer a great Ph.D. program in Special Education.

Union Institute & University

PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies

Union Institute & University, America’s 87th most diverse school on College Factual, utilizes its University Without Walls division to confer a 66-credit PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies Online in as little as 36 months.

Advised by Dr. Anuradha Mitra, the 2011 Greater Cincinnati Teacher of the Year, the HLC-accredited program requires just two residencies in January and July each year.

Students choose concentrations in Educational Studies, Ethical & Creative Leadership, Social Change, or Humanities & Culture.

Does your career require a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies? You’re in luck… Check out the Union Institute & University’s fast Ph.D. program.

Indiana State University

PhD in Technology Management

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the ABET-accredited College of Technology at Indiana State University, Forbes’ 164th best Midwest institution, signs into Blackboard for seven graduate options like the Ph.D. in Technology Management.

This 66-credit degree headed by Dr. Nesli Alp helps STEM master’s holders advance in three years full-time or 4.5 years part-time.

Meeting the 3.5 GPA benchmark allows entry into tracks for Digital Communication, Quality Systems, Industrial Training, and Manufacturing Systems.

Learn more about Indiana State University’s Ph.D. in Technology Management degree program!

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

PhD in Aviation

In 2016, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University launched the United States’ first Ph.D. in Aviation as the #1 most tech-savvy college on Online School Center to quickly produce research scholars studying the skies.

The College of Aeronautics led by Dr. Bruce Conway offers Aviation Safety & Human Factors, Operations, or Interdisciplinary tracks to this 60-credit, SACS-accredited major.

Apply before February 1st to start 12-week online Blackboard courses that require only three-week-long Daytona Beach visits total.

Are you ready to earn your wings? Check out this fast Ph.D. Program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University focused on Aviation!

Liberty University

PhD in Public Policy

Chosen for the NACCU 25th Annual Award in 2018, Liberty University is Niche’s #2 best online college countrywide that utilizes Blackboard to speedily confer the Christ-centered Ph.D. in Public Policy through its Helms School of Government.

The 60-credit major coordinated by Dr. Ron Miller accepts 15 transfer credits and has eight-week courses to finish in three years on average.

Virtual courses are tailored in:

• Economic Policy,
• Education Policy,
• Foreign Policy,
• National Security Policy,
• and Social Policy concentrations.

Will a fast Ph.D. degree in Public Policy help your career? Of course, it will. Check out Liberty University’s fast programs.

University of South Carolina

PhD in Nuclear Engineering

Designated the 97th best by the U.S. News & World Report, the College of Engineering & Computing in Swearingen Center lets University of South Carolina students attend the Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering online via Blackboard.

The 48-credit, ABET-accredited curriculum administered by Dr. Hossein Haj-Hariri helps master energy production methods within three years for $104,000 median pay.

Few online courses, such as:

• Radiation Shielding,
• Thermal Hydraulic Design,
• and Waste Management, involve Columbia residencies.

Learn more about the quickest PhD Programs at the University of South Carolina. They offer a Ph.D. program in Nuclear Engineering!

Indiana Wesleyan University

PhD in Organizational Leadership

Formed in 1983, the College of Adult & Professional Studies at Indiana Wesleyan University, the 83rd best private value in Kiplinger’s, approaches the Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from a Christian perspective with fast, three-year graduation.

The 60-credit hybrid degree managed by Dr. Mark Rennaker integrates lock-step courses like:

• Stewardship,
• Entrepreneurship,
• and Organization Theory.

Each 12-week term, graduates log onto Blackboard asynchronously and attend three Saturday sessions in Indianapolis.

Take a look at Indiana Wesleyan University’s Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership program. Check it out!

Frequently Asked Questions

In general, the typical Ph.D. program will take up to four years to complete; however, depending on the subject matter, it could take up to eight to ten years.

Accelerated Ph.D. programs are based on the premise that instead of spending years earning a doctorate degree , you can possibly earn your degree in three, or possibly two years!

For most who are entertaining the thought of earning a Ph.D., they have already established a career. Within their career, often people hit a roadblock when they have topped out at the best pay or have been promoted to the highest position that is allowed. However… if you had additional credentials to add to your resume, could you obtain a management or leadership position and earn more money? If so, earning a Ph.D. is for you!

Yes, of course, it will. After all, you are combining four years’ worth of work into two years, right? Pure dedication will get you through this awesome task, but be prepared to work extra, extra hard!

No, obviously, accelerated Ph.D. programs are only offered in topics that don’t require as much training, research, or internship experience. Business-related or education-related subjects are the most popular topics that offer accelerated doctoral degree programs .

See: Also: Life Hacks for Online Graduate Students

Related Article: The Most Affordable Online Doctorate Programs

Malcolm Peralty | Chief Editor, PremiumSchools.org

Malcolm Peralty has been a writer for over sixteen years with thousands of articles to his name online. He has co-hosted a wide number of podcasts and been a guest on many more. As a college graduate in Computer Networking… [ Read full bio ]

Malcolm Peralty Chief Editor

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.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

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.

Top 25 Fastest Online Doctorate Degrees

Krystle Dodge

Managing Editor

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A Doctor of Philosophy, known by the initials Ph.D. or PhD, has nothing to do with philosophy. It has much to do with academia and research. Except for some fields, such as creative writing and other artistic disciplines, a Master of Fine Arts may suffice to teach at the college level. If you want a tenure-track position, your chances increase with a Ph.D. Some schools boast on their website the percentage of faculty who has terminal degrees. A high portion of doctorates adds prestige to the program and may lure more students.

Individuals who plan to conduct research pursue a doctoral degree in their specialty. Whether your passion lies in accounting or oceanography, a doctorate demonstrates that you have attained the pinnacle in your profession. However, the number of doctorates awarded in science and engineering (S&E) exceeded non-S&E doctorates, according to 2105 data ( National Science Foundation 2017 ).

The path to a Ph.D. can be a long and expensive proposition. The typical time-frame ranges from four to eight years. You must pass comprehensive exams and write an original research report called a dissertation. The examination is a test of your general knowledge of your chosen field and also your understanding of the intended area of research. At the doctoral level, this written or oral exam is the precursor to your research project.

Therefore, it is important that you ask yourself- why do I want to earn a PhD? As mentioned above, if you intend on academia or research as a career, then it is a wise decision to pursue a doctorate. These two careers will demand that you publish research papers on a regular basis. You should weigh the benefits against the time and expense of obtaining the degree. Perhaps a master’s degree will suffice if a higher salary is your motivation. Engineering with a master’s degree had a median income of $94,000 , according to the site – Payscale. The occupation group of Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioner s had an average wage of $110,930 in 2017 with a Master’s degree , according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Some programs allow you to reduce the standard completion period to three years or less . Ultimately, less time studying equals more money saved on tuition. Also, you will be on your way to resume or seek employment with your new status as a “ doctor .”

The following collection places the most emphasis on the time to complete the respective Ph.D. All of the degrees are available 100% online unless otherwise noted.

1. Boston University (BU)

Established in 1839 in Boston, the school has approximately 33,000 students taking degrees from bachelor to doctorates. The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education categorizes them as an R1, meaning a school of high research activity. They have accolades from U.S. News & World Report (2018) for Online Graduate Programs in Business, Computer Information Technology, and Criminal Justice. Also, Times Higher Education ranked BU at sixth globally for employability of its graduates.

Their College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences or Sargent College, founded in 1881, houses their Department of Occupational Therapy. BU’s doctorate in occupational therapy (OTD) is a post-profession degree for practitioners who want to advance their credentials. The structure of the curriculum allows professionals to continue working while earning their OTD. You can complete the ten online courses (33 credits) in a few as 18 months .

A sampling of the classes includes Health Promotion, Social Policy, Clinical Theory and Research, and two titled Outcomes Measurement & Monitoring. The curriculum concludes with a Capstone and a Doctoral Project.

Admission is subject to stringent qualifications. One of which requires U.S. students to have passed the National Board for Certification in Occupational Safety exam.

Tuition: $896 per credit hour

2. Maryville University

The Religious of the Sacred Heart founded the school as a private academy in 1872 for young women and needy youths. In the 1920s, they became an accredited four-year institution. Today, The Higher Learning Commission accredits the St. Louis, Missouri institution. Also, they have accreditation with the Chicago-based North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Maryville is at the forefront of online nursing programs from the RN to DNP ( Doctor of Nursing Practice ). According to statistics, by 2025, there will be an estimated 164 million Americans with chronic illnesses. Couple this with a possible shortage of medical doctors creates a tremendous demand in the nursing profession. Those with master’s degrees and higher will benefit from escalating salaries into six figures.

Graduate nurses who have their MSN can complete their DNP in as few as 20 months. This doctorate provides the skills to work in various healthcare positions, including administration, policy analysis, and teaching.

The 100% online format requires no campus visits, no GMAT or GRE, and no wait list once accepted. Also, you can earn your required clinical hours at a healthcare facility near your residence.

Tuition: $897 per credit

3. Indiana State University

Founded in 1865, the university resides in Terre Haute on over 400 acres of treed campus. The school offers almost 300 academic programs with 70 available online to over 13,000 students. They have over 75 graduate  and over 100 undergraduate programs. ISU attracts students from all fifty states and over sixty-five countries. Forbes magazine acknowledges them as one of America’s Top Colleges and the Princeton Review calls them one of the Best in the Midwest .

The university has a doctorate in education or Ed.S. degree in School Administration for professionals in elementary to secondary school administration. This blended degree will enhance your master’s in education and boost your leadership skills in the public or private schools’ sector. Being a blended or hybrid format means you will have campus visits. The curriculum requires on-campus sessions three times each semester on Saturdays.

You must maintain a minimum of a  3.25 average grade throughout the 66 credit hours – beyond hours taken during your baccalaureate degree. There are a minimum of 27 hours required beyond your master’s degree at ISU. You may also start the program any semester, including the summer session. By successfully completing two to three courses per semester, you can graduate within 12 to 24 months . The maximum limit to complete the Ed.S. degree is eight years.

Tuition: $412 per credit hour (in-state); Eligible Out-of-State: $527

4. University of Arkansas

The university opened its doors in January 1872 with seven boys and one girl attending. Since its establishment, the institution flourished to become a top two percent research school, according to the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. U.S. News also includes them in their 2019 Best Online Bachelor’s, Grad Education, and Grad Engineering. As of fall 2017, the school had an enrollment of 27,558 students with 12,467 taking at least one online course.

Their accreditations are from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, and the Higher Learning Commission.

In the nursing field, U of A offers online accelerated programs in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.), and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to D.N.P. There are two concentrations in the BSN-DNP choice:

• Family Nurse  Practitioner : Requires 78 credits for graduation, in addition to a minimum of 1,125 clinical practice hours.
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse  Practitioner : Also requires 78 hours, plus 1,035 clinical hours.

Full-time students can complete the former in four years , which includes 1,035 clinical hours. Note that you apply for the BSN to DNP after earning your bachelor’s degree. Similarly, you need an MSN to enter the MSN to DNP program.

The MSN-DNP takes two years full-time and three years part-time. The M.S.N. to D.N.P. has 500 clinical hours after completing your master’s degree.

Tuition: $560 per credit hour

5. Regis University

Founded in 1877 in Las Vegas, New Mexico, Regis moved to Denver in 1887. Currently, there are 11,411 online and on-campus students across five colleges and four campuses. Since its inception in Las Vegas, New Mexico, Regis has maintained it Jesuit Catholic Tradition, in honor of the Jesuit Saint, John Francis Regis.

Today, approximately 15,000 students receive their education from one of their five colleges. With accreditation by The Higher Learning Commission, the school offers 78 online programs. This format and on-campus classes help 89% of graduates find employment within six months of graduation.

The Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professionals operated in conjunction with the Loretto Heights College (LHC) until 1988. When LHC closed, Rueckert-Hartman College absorbed the nursing programs. The college offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). There are two specializations:

• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN): For nurses who have worked in an advanced clinical practice of healthcare.
• Advanced Leadership in Health Care (ALHC): Program is designed for nurses who are currently working in management or supervisory capacity, as well as those who aspire for leadership positions.

Graduates will have the skills to reach senior levels of management, become nursing educators, supervise direct patient care, and be involved in healthcare policy.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing accredits their nursing school.

The APRN and the ALHC provide accelerated completions of 24 months in the six-semester option versus the nine-semester that takes 36 months . Both have 31 semester hours, and each starts in May. No campus visits required.

Tuition: $890 per credit hour

6. Gwynedd Mercy University

GMercyU is a Catholic college founded by the Sisters of Mercy of Merion in 1948. The Sisters of Mercy was a Catholic order established in Dublin, Ireland, by Catherine McAuley. Their mission has never wavered to produce socially conscious and well-educated graduates, who are also globally aware of the needs of others.

The school is one of 17 Catholic colleges in the Conference for Mercy Higher Education. Situated in Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania, it became a four-year school in 1963. Currently, they offer over 30 undergraduate majors and 10+ graduate degrees to students from 34 states. Gwynedd boasts an average GPA of 3.14 and a 75% retention rate for first-year students from fall 2017 to fall 2018.

In 1982, the school offered its first graduate program in nursing. In 2013, they approved their first doctoral degree in nursing (DNP). Their accelerated online 39-credit Doctor of Nursing Practice expands the knowledge of clinical specialists, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives. The curriculum differs from Regis in that there is more emphasis on practical experience. The two-year degree has thirteen courses (39 credits) inclusive of 400 hours of practicum. There are 21 credits of core work and s ix classes or 18 credits are projects or internships.

Examples of the academic part of the curriculum are:

• Technology for Advanced Practice Nurses
• Organizational Behavior and Social Policy
• Statistical Analysis

Graduates of the GMercyU DNP will have increased clinical skills and leadership qualities beneficial to work in any healthcare facility. You will also have the ability to teach and mentor nurses enrolled in BSN and MSN programs.

Tuition: $903 per credit

7. Monmouth University

The private university, founded in 1933, has approximately 6,300 students-4,660 undergrads and 1,700 in graduate programs. The majority of students come from the northeast United States, the school’s locale. In 1956, they received accreditation to offer bachelors’ degrees. The New Jersey Commission on Higher Education granted them the status of a university in 1995.

The Princeton Review refers to the school as one of the best for the past fourteen years. U.S. News recognizes the institution on its annual list of Best Colleges, ranking in the top 40. They offer 32 bachelors and 24 graduate programs, plus an array of certificates to students from 31 states and 43 countries.

The university offers a hybrid or blended Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership. Therefore, this is not a 100% online learning format. The school integrates online classes with specified Thursday evenings and weekend sessions. For this format to work for students, you need to live near their West Long Branch, New Jersey campus. Monmouth believes the face-to-face time with the instructors is beneficial for students.

The Ed.D. curriculum consists of 54 credits covering five main topics associated with leadership. They are:

• Leadership and Learning
• Transformative Leadership
• Policies and Procedures
• Research and Assessment
• Transformative Leadership Project

The Transformation Leadership Project is a vital component of the coursework. At the end of the 6th semester, students present a dissertation based upon their readings, interviews of local leaders in education, as well as faculty. Beginning in the first year, students start compiling a portfolio of asked and answered questions, research materials, personal reflections on education, and scholarly articles related to leadership.

You submit the portfolio to the doctoral committee for review and approval. Once accepted, you proceed to complete the project as a written dissertation.

The Middle States Commission on Higher Learning accredits Monmouth University’s programs. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs approves the graduate programs in School Counseling (MSEd) and Mental Health Counseling (MS). The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education accredits The School of Education. Other accreditations are at this link .

Tuition: $1,187 per credit; $1,199 (Summer Session)

8. Pittsburg State University

Since 1929, the university, located in Pittsburg, Kansas, has offered graduate degrees. Currently, the school has a range of online degree and certificate choices from bachelor to doctorate. Their recognized teaching excellence has attracted over 7,000 students from 36 states and 43 countries.

One feature highlighted by the university is their Flat Rate Tuition. It allows full-time students, enrolled in 12 hours or more, to add more hours with no change in tuition. The rate also includes Campus Privilege Fees that benefit only on-campus students for expenses like parking and access to the Health and the Recreation Center.

The university offers two doctorate programs in education leadership. The same admissions criteria apply to both degrees. Your application must indicate your leadership experience within an organization, writing skills, ability to collaborate and problem solve. The proof of leadership is an autobiographical description of roles where you have demonstrated this quality.

One is the Advanced Studies in Leadership ( General School Administration ) online Ed.S. degree. Students with a master’s degree in an education-related field are eligible for this 36-credit hours degree. By completing two courses each semester, students can complete the program in two years . The curriculum is 100% online-no campus visits needed.

This degree has three sections of the curriculum:

• General School Administration : Consist of 12 hours of Leadership and 6 hours of Practicum Educational Systems Leadership.
• Research : Twelve to fifteen hours cover educational statistics, computer applications, research skills, thesis, and research projects.
• Leadership : These classes entail organizational theory, grant writing, and legal foundations of public education.

Graduates will have the skills to seek management positions in elementary and secondary school levels, as well as community or technical colleges.

The Kansas State Department of Education and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accredit this program. U.S. News ranks the Ed.S. in the Top 25 Best Online Graduate Education Programs.

Tuition: $382 per credit

9. Pittsburg State University

The other education leadership doctorate is the Ed.S. with a concentration in Special Education . The online 36-credit program is open to students who have completed a master’s degree in Special Education and meet additional criteria for admission. Students, subject to approval, may transfer up to nine hours of courses in special education. The same two-year completion time as the one above applies to this degree.

The special education core coursework focuses on teaching students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), their characteristics, and research strategies for teaching ASD classes. The other two categories of the curriculum are Research and Leadership Core Courses. These two sections, which are 12 to 15 hours each, follow the same courses as the above Ed.S. program.

Graduates will be eligible to work at the elementary and secondary school district levels.

Tuition: $382 per credit (includes $36 electronic fee)

10. Lamar University

Located in Beaumont, Texas, Lamar teaches over 15,000 students enrolled in more than 100 programs from bachelors to doctoral degrees. More than 2,500 live on the 292-acre campus situated 90 miles east of Houston. Founded in 1923 as South Park Junior College, the school took its name from Mirabeau B. Lamar, second President of the Republic of Texas. In 1970, the school offered its first doctoral program. The following year they officially became Lamar University.

Currently, over 300 students are enrolled in doctoral programs that recognize the institution as a Carnegie Doctoral Research University. They are one of just 29 public universities in the United States to receive this accolade.

Their College of Education and Human Development offers an online Doctoral Studies in Educational Leadership . With the accelerated format, you can complete the eight-semester Ed.D. in 2.5 years . During this time, you will specialize in Global Education Leadership, which will create leaders in education at the local, national, and international levels.

The 60-hour program consists of eleven Required (Major) Courses, five Research Courses, and four Dissertation courses. The core subjects cover ethics, leadership, global education, academic research writing, and multicultural educational trends.

Similar to most doctorate programs, there are strict admission requirements. For consideration, your master’s degree courses must have a GPS of 3.5 or more. Your GRE scores cannot be more than five years old. Other documents included at time of application is a letter addressing: the most important issue in education leadership . Your resume must have the details of all your education leadership experience.

The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits the university. The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate has recently accepted the university.

Tuition: $1,527 for 3 hours; $5,332 for 12 hours: Texas residents

11. East Carolina University (ECU)

Located in Greenville, North Carolina, ECU has over 100 online degree and certificate programs in business, technology, nursing, education, health, and more. Their undergraduate enrollment was 23,100 in the fall of 2018. The school offers 84 bachelors, 71 masters, 13 research doctoral, and five professional doctoral degrees. There are also 84 departmental certificates and 120 online degrees and certificates.

U.S. News ranks its online graduate programs in Education in the Top 10%. Graduate degrees in Nursing, Physical Therapy, and Rehabilitation Counseling are in the Top 25%, according to the same publication. Other honors include Best Business School, Best Medical School, and Green College, as reported by the Princeton Review.

The Brody School of Medicine offers two Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degrees:

• Environmental and Occupational Health
• Health Policy, Administration, and Leadership

Individuals with a Master of Public Health (MPH) and experience in this or a related field benefit from a shorter curriculum of 51 semester hours.

Option #1 is science-oriented. This choice splits into two specializations of Environmental or Occupational Health. Both are for nine hours. The former studies microbiology, food and water safety, public health pests, disease transmission, and water treatment. The occupational health topics examine the use of protective gear, ventilation systems, and elimination of toxic substances in the workplace.

The program has 15 hours of dissertation and concludes with six hours of field practicum.

Option #2 concentrates (18 hours) on leadership and health policy analysis. You will take courses in strategic planning, human resources, quality improvement, health information systems, policy analysis, disaster preparedness, and more. This option has the same hours of dissertation and field experience.

Students with the appropriate master’s degree and experience can finish either specialization in 2 to 2.5 years .

Tuition: $694 (part-time) per credit hour; $3,275 (full-time 9+ hours)

12. Hampton University

The university is proud of its humble beginnings under an oak tree in Hampton, Virginia. The tree later became known as the Emancipation Oak. At that spot in 1863, the Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation took place. One of its most distinguished graduates was Booker T. Washington who arrived in 1872 as a transient looking for work.

The institution has undergone name changes from the original Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute to Hampton Normal School in the 1880s to Hampton Institute to its present name change in 1984.

Aided by their membership in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, the school allows online degrees to other members. One of these programs is a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Management . It is an accelerated 66-credit degree with the following concentrations:

• Higher Education
• Pre-K to 12 Education
• STEM Leadership
• Special Education

There are specific criteria to meet before applying. This Ph.D. program prefers applicants to have at least five years of work in a field related to the degree. Preference will be for students who have leadership experience or licensure in Special Education. The preferred employment background varies according to the concentration you select. An accepted student may be able to transfer up to nine credit hours from an accredited college or university in courses you obtained a “B” or 3.0 grade or better.

The program consists of 22 courses; each one lasts nine weeks with a projected completion time of 2.5 years .

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education authorizes their Division of Education.

Tuition: $695 per credit hour

13. Nova Southeastern University

Established in 1964, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is home for the university. In the 2017-18 school year, this private university had an enrollment of 20,793 students in over 150 programs. The shortlist includes pharmacy, nursing, optometry, education, law, business, physical and occupational therapy. U.S. News ranks the school in the Top 200 in their category of Best Colleges 2019.

The Department of Conflict Resolution Studies offers a Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution that prepares you for careers as consultants, administrators, researchers, and evaluators. Graduates have the skills to function in conflict resolution as practitioners and theoreticians. They will also have leadership qualities and mastery of quantitative research analysis. The 76-credit hour program has a choice of four concentrations:

• Community-based Conflict
• Conflict in Organizations
• Global Conflict
• Interpersonal Conflict

Students have the option of full-time studies (9 credits per semester) or part-time (6 credits). The former allows students to complete the doctorate courses in 2.5 years , whereas part-time students take four years. The time-frame does not include the dissertation that follows the academic phase. Also, you may be able to transfer up to 15 credits from a Master’s degree in a similar field.

All online programs require students to attend two Residential Institutes (RI) each academic year for five days. The RIs typically occur in February and late September or early October.

Tuition: $1,095 per credit hour

14. Concordia University-Chicago

Founded in 1864 in nearby Addison, Illinois, Concordia is a private university located in River Forest, near Chicago, since 1912. They are members of the Concordia University System that comprises a national network of colleges. The schools have an affiliation with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.

The College of Business offers a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) online and on campus. The DBA differs from a Ph.D. in that the former studies the theoretical aspect of business and leadership. Therefore, the DBA has a practical application for a professional in the business world. Concordia contends that the Ph.D. suits individuals who seek work in academia and research. Academically, the two degrees are equivalent.

The university recommends that applicants have five years of business experience. Admission requires a master’s degree in business or related field, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. One is a professional recommendation, and the other is academic. Interested candidates for this program must meet the stringent admission requirements, including a minimum of a 3.0 GPA in your master’s degree.

Concordia has four DBA specializations:

• Innovation in Healthcare
• Innovations in Human Resources
• Leadership and Innovation
• Marketing Innovations

These specializations have an accelerated online format that students can complete within three years. Furthermore, all of the business programs at the master’s and doctorate levels adhere to their Four Pillars of Knowledge. These emphasize the qualities of ethics, critical thinking, human relations, global inclusive, and communication.

There are three residencies spread over seven of the nine semesters. The initial one occurs in semester one during the first eight weeks. The second is during the first eight-week segment in semester four. The last one is in semester seven. Each counts for one credit of the 60-credits program. Each residency lasts four days.

Tuition: $960 per credit

15. University of Tennessee

The university, founded in 1794, is currently recognized for its research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education in the Doctoral category. More recently, the current Knoxville College of Social Work began as the Nashville School of Social Work in 1942. With the expansion, the school moved to its present location in 1958.

The university changed the name to the College of Social Work in 1986. Today, they offer an online Master of Science in Social Work and an online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) for professionals eager to advance their present clinical practice and gain leadership skills. The accelerated online format allows social workers to continue working and maintain their personal life. The program uses both synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous methods to present the coursework. Interactive media and video are part of the instructional features.

This doctorate targets those who have an average of ten to twelve years of experience in social work. By completing two classes per semester, you can complete the DSW in three years .

The program is not 100% online. There are required campus study sessions each summer for one week. The purpose is to discuss issues face-to-face with professors and peers. You also have the benefit of expanding your network of contacts and associates in the field of social work.

Graduates will have advanced skills as a clinician and a leader to expand their career opportunities. Some of the potential areas to showcase your expertise are in mental health clinics, government agencies, psychiatric facilities, rehabilitation programs, hospice care, and social services’ organizations.

The DSW program is a member of the  Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education (GADE) in Social Work .

Tuition: $626 per credit hour: in-state; $1,637 out-of-state residents

16. University of the Southwest

Located in Hobbs, New Mexico, B. Clarence Evans founded the school as a source of Christian education. In 1956, Hobbs Baptist College began as a two-year junior college. A name change occurred in 1958 to become New Mexico Baptist College. The school adopted its present name in 1962.

The school offers three Bachelor’s degrees in Science, Arts and Sciences, and Business Administration. Their MBA has ten specializations, the MS in Education has nine concentrations, and there is one doctorate program. All graduate programs are available entirely online.

The College of Business Administration offers a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in three specializations. Each has distinctive coursework designed for executives with leadership experience. Each concentration prepares graduates for advancement in management positions in profit and non-profit companies, government, education, consulting, and civic organizations.

The three specialty areas are:

Strategy and Innovation

This option may suit those interested in corporate strategy and planning. The classes study marketing strategies and planning for a competitive advantage. Decision-making, data analysis, research methods, and human behavior are other courses. The program culminates in 12 hours of dissertation courses.

Leadership and Organizational Development

This area of study focuses on the practical aspect of leadership, problem-solving, and the application of research. The core classes in this specialty are the same as above except for the substitution of Global Financial Management (this option) for Human Resource Development. There are the same hours devoted to Dissertation courses.

Self-Design

This choice has the same core courses as the above, except this one includes Policy Analysis and Evaluation, instead of Marketing Strategies in the Leadership program. There is a focus on problem-solving for executives, and how research applies to challenges facing leaders in the business environment. Again, there are 12 hours of Dissertation.

Students can complete any of the above 100% online selections in three years part-time . The school offers all course materials and books with the cost of tuition. As a bonus, you receive a free laptop in your first class! Students could be eligible to transfer up to 12 credits from a Master’s degree in business or related field. Applicants must have a graduate degree from an accredited university and a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

The Higher Learning Commission accredits the school’s programs. The university is also a member of numerous councils and associations . One, in particular, is the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). The CCCU comprises an association of more than 150 campuses in the U.S. and Canada.

Tuition: $799- inclusive of all fees

17. Maryville University

In addition to the program mentioned above, the school has more choices in their Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. The same feature applies: all are 100% online with no campus visits, no GMAT or GRE needed for admission, and no waiting once accepted. You can take the necessary clinical hours at a local facility.

Maryville offers a DNP-NP that you may complete within 36 months . Both the DNP and the DNP-NP (Nurse Practitioner) are terminal degrees. The addition of the letters “NP” means the nurse has received advanced education in medical procedures. Therefore, the specialty of a nurse practitioner is for nurses who want to be involved in direct patient care. In this capacity, they can prescribe medications, perform advanced procedures, and diagnosis patients’ medical condition.

All of the DNP programs at Maryville require students to have a MSN.

Tuition: $897 per credit hour

18. Maryville University

Founded in 1872, US News & World Report and Forbes magazine (2018) recognizes the university as one of America’s Best Colleges. Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine ranks them as one of the best values in private colleges in 2018.

Nursing professionals who want to extend their education may consider one of the specializations in their DNP-NP 100% online programs.

One of the concentrations is a Family Nurse Practitioner , known in degree terms as the DNP-NP FNPC. The curriculum broadens your medical expertise into the treatment, prevention, diagnosis, counsel, and wellness of all family members. The courses cover pediatric to adult-gerontology care from a holistic perspective. The curriculum consists of 15 foundation courses, 18 hours of Capstone Courses, and 18 hours of FNP courses. In the latter, there are nine hours titled Clinical Inquiry.

19. Maryville University

The university has an NP in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (DNP-NP AGPCNP). With the adult population living longer, the percentage of seniors over 65 keeps increasing. In 2010, statistics show that 13.1% of the U.S. population was over 65. By 2020, the number will be 16.9%, and by 2030, the projection is 20.6% or 71.5 million seniors over 65. This rise creates a demand for nurses specializing in gerontology.

The 62-credit online AGPCNP concentration consists of Foundation Courses (15 hours), Capstone (18), Core (17), and 12 hours of Adult-Gerontology. This program is for nurses who want to continue in clinical practice. You can complete the degree is less than 36 months .

The school also offers a BSN to DNP AGPCNP that you can graduate in a few as 36 months. There are 580 clinical hours you must complete over three semesters.

Another terminal degree Maryville has is similar to the one above. It involves geriatric care. However, the focus is on acute care. The degree is a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner or DNP-NP AGACNP.

The curriculum follows the same categories as the Primary Care Gerontology program. The difference is in the courses specific to the respective concentration. The primary care has 12 hours of Adult-Gerontology NP, whereas the Acute Care NP has 18 hours. The additional hours include Acute Care Diagnosis, Diagnosis and Management (9 hours) and 6 hours of Practicum.

You can complete this doctorate in 36 months . Students with a BSN may consider the MSN + AGACNP program that takes an average of 40 months online.

20. Maryville University

You can put your compassion for children to use by earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Practitioner – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (DNP-NP PNP). This online program is another in the DNP family offered 100% online. The 65 credit curriculum has 15 hours of the pediatric nurse concentration covering courses in Health Promotion of the Pediatric Populations and twelve hours of Pediatric Assessment and Diagnosis, of which six hours is a Practicum.

Similar to the other DNP concentrations, this curriculum has 15 hours of foundation and 18 hours of Capstone courses, plus 15 hours of PNP courses.

You can earn this degree in as short as 36 months . There is also the BSN to DNP PNP program that has a completion time of 40 months. There are three starting months- January, May, and August.

Tuition: $897 per credit for all DNP programs

21. University of South Carolina

Thanks to Thomas Jefferson’s encouragement to expand the Southern public college teaching system, the school began in 1801. Enrollment flourished with the baby-boomer generation from 1960 to 1979. During that time-frame, the campus grew from 5,660 to 26,000 students.

It is one of forty-nine public universities to be a top-tier research institution according to the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits this 200-year old school to award bachelors to doctoral degrees.

The university offers an online 60-credit Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with a concentration in Educational Technology. Intended for teachers from K-12 and professional working for school boards, the completion time is 36 months. The study plan has four sections:

• Core Curriculum & Instruction – Coursework examines the design and evaluation of technology used as a teaching method: 12 hours
• Educational Technology Concentration – Covers the theory and practical application of technology as they related to the delivery of educational material: 15 hours
• Research – Using analysis techniques, interpretation, and data collection, the courses examine research in educational technology: 12 hours
• Cognate – Courses study the use of multimedia, including graphics, animations, simulations, as means of instruction: 9 hours
• Dissertation Preparation – 12 hours

Students learn about the practical application of technology as an educational tool. You become versed in assessment techniques, such as interviews, performance reviews, and testing procedures.

Tuition: $37,123 for all applicants; $33,703 for South Carolina Certified Teachers

22. University of Bridgeport

Founded in 1927 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, the university attracts students from 45 states and 80 countries. The school opened its doors as a two-year junior college. After World War II, attendance blossomed with veterans thanks to the GI Bill. Currently, the university has ten accreditations in various programs. Some of these are:

• The NAACLS (National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science) accredits the UB Medical Laboratory Science Program.
• The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) accredits The Ernest C. Trefz School of Business.
• The Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME) accredits The College of Naturopathic Medicine.
• The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) accredits The School of Education.

The school began offering online degrees in 1987 with the inception of a Master’s degree in Human Nutrition. Recently, U.S. News & World Report in 2018 recognized Bridgeport’s online programs among the best in the nation for the seventh consecutive year.

Their online Doctoral in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.) is different than Lamar’s degree. Bridgeport’s is a specialization in International Education. The specialty should appeal to leaders in private and public learning institutions, education policy specialists, and researchers.

The curriculum teaches a range of topics including principles of leadership, organizational psychology, legal issues, methodologies in research, and program assessment.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree from an accredited college with a grade average of 3.0 or higher. Other requirements include two letters of recommendation – one from a colleague and one from a supervisor who attests for your leadership qualities. Another submission, with your application, consists of a 500+ word essay explaining why you want the degree along with your personal and professional accomplishments.

Subject to approval, you may transfer up to nine credits toward this 62-credit program. There are two residency requirements for one week each during the summer semesters. You can complete your doctorate in three years .

Tuition: $680 per credit hour + $2,000 Dissertation/Research & Advisement

23. Liberty University

Since its establishment by Reverend Jerry Falwell in 1971, Liberty has grown to encompass sixteen colleges with over 100,000 students. They offer over 550 programs including associate, bachelors, masters, graduate certificates, and doctoral programs. Their online programs expanded from the first program in 1985 to over 250 currently. Liberty also has an online Bible college-the Willmington School of the Bible.

Individuals working as professionals in law enforcement have the potential to advance their career and stature in this field with an online PhD. Liberty offers a doctoral degree in Criminal Justice at the Helms School of Government. The coursework studies juvenile justice, corrections, causes of crime, international crime, and terrorism. There is a choice of three areas of specialization:

• General : Some of the classes entail terrorism, intelligence, stress management, and organized crime.
• Homeland Security : Delves into cybercrime, cybersecurity, analysis and protection of computer systems and infrastructure, and counter-terrorism strategies.
• Leadership : As the name suggests, you learn about law enforcement leadership, planning, strategizing, and human resources.

All of these options prepare you for a career as a professor, senior investigator, police, public policy advisor, and administrator or security consultant.

This online PhD is 60 credit hours with a target completion time of three years . Each course is eight weeks with eight start dates each year. You may be eligible to transfer up to 15 credit hours. Also, there are no set login times that allows each student to complete classes on his/her schedule.

Tuition: $595 (full-time); $650 (part-time)

24. Liberty University

The university also offers three concentrations under the heading of an Ed.D. degree. This particular doctorate is in Community Care and Counseling . The purpose of the coursework is to enhance your ability to write academic articles, treat and counsel clients, and diagnose in a clinical setting. The 100% online program is meant to complement your Christian mindset. You can complete this degree in as few as three years .

The three choices of specialization are:

Marriage and Family

For individuals who want to enter or magnify their skills counseling couples and families. Students examine the application of theories and principles concerning the dynamics and relationships within the family structure. You learn effective counseling techniques to address the psychological issues that arise within families. Part of the curriculum includes the submission of a research paper based on the student’s theories and experience as a family counselor.

(Learn more about what degree you need to be a holistic counselor.)

Pastoral Care and Counseling

This option continues in the vein of family and marriage therapy. This program may interest those who are licensed family therapists and social workers. The predominant theme running through the curriculum is the moral standards and ethics preached throughout the Bible. Students must also write a paper about their perception of ethics and its significance in counseling.

Traumatology

The courses cover various types of trauma affecting children, adolescents, and adults. Some of these are sexual abuse, PTSD, emotional abuse, neglect, terrorism, date rape, and domestic violence. Students study the physical and psychological damage caused by traumatic events. They also learn about the science behind the delivery of different counseling techniques.

The concentration has four Discussion Forums that requires writing a 400-500 word paper on the topic discussed in a specific forum. The context of the report is based on a review of research articles and the student’s exchange of ideas with peers.

Another crucial component of Traumatology is a PowerPoint presentation of a 40-slide that must include a bibliography of research materials, books, and biblical references. This 150 point graphic presentation is one of seven components of the program that total 1010 points.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accredits Liberty University.

Tuition: $ $595 (full-time); $650 (part-time)

25. Walden University

Walden is a mecca for online degree-seekers. Over 55,000 students from 50 states and 145 countries rely on this institution for their degree. These programs involve criminal justice, education, psychology, management, public health counseling, nursing, public administration, and social and human services. The National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency (NSA) approves their criminal justice programs. The Higher Learning Commission accredits all degree programs.

One of their online doctoral degrees is a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice . This program does require at least two residency sessions. You must complete Residency 1: the first face-to-face in term 1 or 2. Residency 2 and 4 have the option of a virtual session, subject to completing the requisite courses. There is also an optional Ph.D. Dissertation Intensive Retreat. Candidates meet to discuss their respective dissertations with faculty and peers. As an example, for the months June through November 2019, there are four-five day retreats at popular hotels within the U.S.

The school allows the transfer of up to 38 credits as a means to accelerate your degree. Another feature is Walden’s Fast-Track option. This choice provides a faster completion by taking three courses per term. The traditional format is two courses each term. You may be able to graduate within 24 to 36 months , depending on the number of courses completed each term. The fast track benefits those who have earned a master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field.

Both the traditional and fast track offer these concentrations in this Ph.D. criminal justice program:

• General Program
• Emergency Management
• Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
• Justice Administration
• Online (Criminal Justice) Teaching in Higher Education
• Global Leadership
• Law and Public Policy
• Public Management and Leadership

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School Finder

Fastest phd programs 2023, enrolling in one of the fastest online doctoral degree programs available is one of the quickest ways to advance in your career. a phd is the highest level of education one can attain. by pursuing a doctoral degree, you will develop your expertise and demonstrate your commitment to being the best in your field. students who are looking for fast online doctoral programs will find this list of schools helpful in their search. .

You May Also Like: 50 Best Nonprofit Colleges for a Doctorate Online 

Fastest Online PhD Programs Methodology

We have compiled a list of the top online doctorate programs available. These accelerated programs have been accredited by nationally recognized accreditation boards. And we’ve verified each school’s nonprofit status. The fastest doctor degree we have chosen are ordered according to tuition costs per academic year. The most affordable online doctorate programs are listed first. Note that tuition rates are based on in-state graduate tuition costs. individual doctoral programs may have additional fees.

Featured Programs

Ranking the top fastest online doctoral programs.

#1. East Carolina University

Greenville, north carolina.

Degree Program: Online Doctorate of Public Health

East Carolina University offers this fast Online Doctorate of Public Health degree. The DrPH is a terminal professional degree. And it is for those who intend to pursue leadership or research careers in public health. Candidates will learn to design and implement evidence-based programs and become transformative leaders. There are two concentrations within the program:

• Environmental and Occupational Health
• Health Policy, Administration, and Leadership

A total of 50 to 74 semester hours are needed to complete the program. And students can graduate in about 30 months. That makes it one of the shortest online doctorate programs on the list. The number of credits depends on whether or not the candidate is entering the program with an MPH degree. There are core course requirements and plenty of exciting electives to choose from. So it’s easy to tailor this program to your professional goals. Some of the courses include:

• Organizational Theory and Leadership
• Emerging Issues in Environmental and Occupational Health
• Public Health Microbiology, Water and Food Safety
• Public Health Pests and Vector-Borne Diseases
• Water Supply and Wastewater Treatment
• Advanced Control of Occupational Hazards
• Advanced Industrial Hygiene Applications
• Environmental Risk Communication

To be selected for the program, you should have previous experience in the public health field. You should also have your MPH degree or a master’s degree in a closely related field. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 in all coursework. They must also pass comprehensive exams to move on to the dissertation portion of the program.

Tuition: $4,749

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2. Lamar University

Beaumont, texas.

Degree Program: Online Doctoral Studies in Educational Leadership

Lamar University offers an excellent online Doctoral Studies in Educational Leadership program. This degree is ideal for professionals who want to advance their careers into leadership positions. This fast online PhD program provides students with a quick way to move into one of the highest-paying roles in the field of elementary, high school, and higher education.

The program consists of 60 credit hours. And students can expect to graduate in as little as eight semesters. It’s one of the fastest PhD online programs on our list. Plus, at under $6,500 per semester, it’s also one of the most affordable fast online PhD programs we’ve found. In addition, it is 100 percent online, so you can earn your Ed.D while still meeting your current responsibilities. In fact, most students are full-time, working professionals. Coursework starts every summer and includes fascinating topics like:

• Adult Learning Theory 
• Global Leadership Issues 
• Global Educational Leadership Policy
• Global Communication 
• Academic Research Writing 
• Foundations of Distance Learning
• Trends/Issues in Multicultural Education 
• Higher Education Leadership

Candidates must have a completed master’s degree from an accredited university. Additionally, they will need to provide three references, a CV, and an application essay. 

Tuition: $6,474

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Score: 99.75

See Also: Highest Paying Phd Degree Programs

#3. Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, kansas.

Degree Program: Online Specialist in Education in Leadership

Pittsburg State University offers a Specialist in Education Degree that is 100 percent online. This degree has a major in Advanced Studies in Leadership and an emphasis on General School Administration. Candidates must hold a master’s degree in an education-related field to be eligible. The program is for those who want to specialize in elementary and secondary-level administration rather than higher education.

This fast online doctoral degree requires a total of 36 credit hours for completion. And students can expect to finish within 24 months, making it one of the fastest doctorate degree programs available. Some of the courses include:

• Educational Systems Leadership
• Educational Statistics
• Educational Leadership Policy and Practice
• Legal Foundations of Public Education
• Organizational Theory and Planning 
• Change Processes and Professional Development 
• Grant Writing and External Resources 

Students in this program will generally take two courses per semester. Pitt State offers several opportunities for financial aid, scholarships, and other assistance. 

Tuition: $6,820

Score: 99.50

#4. Indiana State University

Terre haute, indiana.

Degree Program: Online Education Specialist in School Administration

Students at ISU can enroll in an online Education Specialist in School Administration degree. Because of the rolling curriculum, you can start this program at the beginning of any semester, including summer. This fast doctoral degree is an excellent option for students who want to advance their careers in school administration.

The program requires a total of 60 credit hours. And it includes a practicum for students in the central office internship experience. Students can transfer up to 39 hours of graduate credit into the program. Some of the courses include:

• Foundations of Higher Educational Leadership 
• Legal Aspects of Educational Administration 
• School and Community: Collaborating for Effective Schools 
• The School Principal: Leadership for Changing Schools 
• School Business Administration 
• Educational Facility Planning 
• Curriculum Development 

If they meet the requirements, doctoral students at ISU may be eligible for federal financial aid, scholarships, and grants. 

Tuition: $7,776

Score: 99.25

#5. Liberty University

Lynchburg, virginia.

Degree Program: Online Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice

The next fast online doctoral degree is offered through Liberty University. Liberty offers many such online degree programs, but the Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice is one of the fastest. Students who complete the program will gain the skills to move into senior-level positions in criminal justice.

A total of 60 credits are needed to complete the program, which takes about three years. There are three specializations. They include Homeland Security, Leadership, and a General track. Courses are offered in eight-week formats, as with many fast PhD programs. Depending on the specialization you choose, they may include:

• Transnational Organized Crime
• Advanced Topics in Terrorism and Intelligence
• Criminal Justice Organizational Conflict
• Stress Management in Criminal Justice
• Theories of Crime
• Contemporary Issues in Cybersecurity and Threat Analysis
• Critical Infrastructure: Vulnerability Analysis and Protection

In addition to being one of the fastest online doctorates, it is also one of the cheapest. Tuition is under $8,000 per academic year. And doctoral students may be eligible for financial aid as well. And if you’re in the military, you may qualify for this program at just $300 per credit hour. 

Tuition: $7,847

Score: 99.00

#6. University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, arkansas.

Degree Program: Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

Students at the University of Arkansas can enroll in the school’s Online Doctor of Nursing Practice. This program can be completed in 24 months, making it one of the fastest online doctoral degree programs on our list. Doctoral students must earn a total of 78 credit hours to complete the program. This is a fantastic option for working professionals who want to advance their careers in nursing practice. Some of the courses in this program include:

• Population and Community Health 
• Child and Family Nursing
• Leadership for Professional Nurses
• Pathophysiology in Nursing
• Health Assessment and Clinical Reasoning
• Critical Care Nursing
• Scientific Foundation for Professional Nursing Practice

Courses are 100 percent online, and no GRE is required. Full-time students can complete this accelerated online program in about two years. Those who opt for part-time study can earn the degree in approximately three years. Candidates must complete clinical hours, and there are a few on-campus requirements for this program.

Tuition: $7,875

Score: 98.75

#7. Bowling Green State University

Bowling green, ohio.

Degree Program: Online PhD in Technology Management

Bowling Green State University offers a unique online PhD in Technology Management. It is delivered in partnership with five other nationally-accredited universities. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to manage technology-based organizations. There are five specializations within the program:

• Construction Management
• Digital Communications
• Human Resource Development and Training
• Manufacturing Systems
• Quality Systems

The program requires a total of 66 credit hours for completion. Each student’s course load will differ depending on the specialization they choose. However, all students must complete the general core and research courses. Some of these include: 

• Strategic Planning of Technological Processes
• Internet Research Methods
• Impacts of Technology
• Legal Aspects of Industry
• Technological Systems, Assessment, and Innovation
• Advanced Research Methods
• Statistical Analysis in Technology Research
• Field Research Projects

The online courses at BGSU are taught by the same expert faculty who teach on-campus. The school uses Canvas as its Learning Management System. Instructors use a variety of media to teach the courses. This includes videos, projects, assessments, discussion forums, and more. 

Tuition: $8,017

Score: 98.50

#8. University of Maryland Global Campus

College park, maryland.

Degree Program: Online Doctor of Business Administration

The University of Maryland offers an online Doctorate Degree in Business Administration. Students in this program study real-world leadership issues. And they gain a sophisticated level of management skills and knowledge. It’s one of the fastest programs on our list, and students can graduate with 48 credit hours. 

All candidates must take Foundations of Doctoral Studies as a prerequisite course. Once in the program, the core and dissertation courses include:

• Interpreting and Translating Management Theory in Practice
• Research as a Tool for Management Decision Making
• Evidence-Based Research Methods
• Data Analytics in Practice 
• Designing Evidence-Based Management Solutions 
• Producing Original Management Ideas that Influence: Publishing and Conferencing 

A unique aspect of this Doctorate Degree in Business Administration is the cohort structure. This structure promotes interactive partnerships among faculty and students and supports lifelong learning. In addition, students are exposed to global perspectives by collaborating with geographically diverse classmates. Although all the coursework can be completed online, students may be required to visit the UM campus for a two-day residency each term. 

Tuition: $9,072

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Score: 98.25

Related: Best Online DBA Programs

#9. Concordia University – Chicago

Chicago, illinois.

Degree Program: Online Doctorate in Business Administration

Concordia University – Chicago offers an innovative online Doctorate Degree in Business Administration. The program provides additional leadership and management skills beyond the MBA level. The degree will provide near mastery of key business concepts. And it will prepare students for high-level executive and management positions. There are two doctorate degree in business administration specializations:

• Innovation in Health Care Management 
• Strategic Leadership and Innovation

The program requires a total of 60 credit hours to complete. And most students can finish the degree in about three years. Depending on which specialization you choose, some of your courses may include the following:

• Foundations of the Doctoral Experience
• The Global Leader: Social Responsibility and Ethical Decision Making
• Global Concepts in Strategic Marketing
• Strategy Formulation, Deployment, and Innovation: A Global Perspective
• Business Analytics and Financial Decision Making
• Global Business Operations
• Innovative Best Practices in Health Care Management 

Each doctorate degree student is matched with a mentor during the second term of the program. While the coursework is online, students are required to attend three residencies at Concordia to graduate. A unique feature of this program is that students begin work on their dissertations during their first term.

Tuition: $9,090

Score: 98.00

Related: Top Fastest Online Master’s Programs

#10. University of Missour i

Columbia, missouri.

Degree Program: Online Doctor of Philosophy in Architectural Studies

The next fast doctoral program is offered through the University of Missouri. It’s a 72-credit online Doctor of Philosophy in Architectural Studies. Students in this program will learn key skills for conducting research that contributes to the field of architecture.

Students can complete the program in about five years. But the duration will depend on your course load. Additionally, students can apply up to 30 credit hours from the master’s level toward the degree. The program is 100 percent online, with no campus visits required. However, there are three optional summer workshops students are encouraged to attend. In addition, there are several areas of emphasis students can focus on. Some of these include:

• Aesthetics of Design
• Facility Management and Design
• Housing and Neighborhood Design
• Sustainable Design
• Design Education
• Inclusive Design / Accessibility

Courses are three credits each. And the program culminates with a written dissertation and comprehensive examination. Some of the courses in this program include:

• Materials, Methods, and Products
• Sustainable Technologies and Systems
• Energy-Efficient Building Design
• Guiding Design with Historic Preservation
• Design Research and Service Design

Tuition: $9,950

Score: 97.75

#11. Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, arizona.

Degree Program: Online PhD in Performance Psychology

This next fast online doctoral program is offered through Grand Canyon University. It’s a 60-credit online Ph.D. in Performance Psychology. The degree centers on human psychology during professional performance. And those who complete the program will be able to use psychology to help athletes and others improve their performance. Students can complete the accelerated program in about two years. Each course is offered in an eight-week online format. Some of the courses in this program include:

• History and Systems of Psychology
• Psychoanalysis and Psychodynamic Theory
• Foundations of Research Design
• Behaviorism Total Credits
• Foundations of Performance Psychology
• Humanistic, Transpersonal, and Existential Psychology
• Qualitative Data Collection and Management
• Qualitative Data Analysis, Results, and Findings 

Courses can be completed entirely online on your own schedule. However, there are two to three required residencies on campus. During the residency, online students will get the chance to work directly with their peers and faculty members. GCU offers several other online doctoral programs as well. They include:

• Doctor of Business Administration
• Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership
• Doctor of Education in Teaching and Learning
• Doctor of Health Administration
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology
• Education Specialist in K-12 Leadership.

Tuition: $10,621

Score: 97.50

See Also: Top Online Doctorates in Psychology

#12. University of Florida

Gainesville, florida.

Degree Program: Online Doctorate of Nursing Practice

Students at the University of Florida can enroll in the school’s Online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. For students who already have an MSN, it’s a 35-credit program that can be completed in five semesters. The BSN to DNP program is longer and may require up to 78 credits, which takes about 36 months. No matter which program you choose, they are both fast online doctoral programs. And they will give you the skills you need to hold leadership and management positions in nursing.

All classes are offered online. However, there are some periodic campus visits required. Some of the courses in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program include:

• Leading Quality Improvement Practice Initiatives
• Health Policy and Finance in Advanced Nursing Practice
• Applied Statistical Analysis
• Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice
• Advanced Topics in Pharmacotherapeutics in Nursing and Genomics

This is a practice-focused Doctor of Nursing Practice. And all students will complete a comprehensive practice-based project to culminate their experience. Additionally, clinical placements are arranged within each student’s geographical area whenever possible. Doctoral students are encouraged to apply for any grants or scholarships that may help offset the costs of tuition. Additionally, Doctor of Nursing Practice students may be eligible for federal financial aid. 

Tuition: $10,770

Score: 97.25

#13. University of Tennessee

Knoxville, tennessee.

Degree Program: Online Doctor of Social Work

The University of Tennessee offers a 100 percent online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) in Clinical Practice and Leadership. This fast online Ph.D. program does not require students to visit the UT campus to earn the doctoral degree. It’s an accelerated program designed to be completed in three years with no career disruption. As a result, it is perfect for students already working full-time as social workers. These applicants can continue clinical practice while earning their doctoral degree. Some of the excellent courses in this comprehensive program include:

• Neuroscience for Clinical Practice
• Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Relational and Interpersonal Psychotherapies
• Clinical Management
• Advanced EBP with Addictions and Co-occurring Disorders

All students take two classes in sequence each semester. Additionally, all candidates are required to complete two capstone papers. A total of 48 credit hours are needed to earn the Ph.D. And all students in this program are considered to be attending full-time. Financial aid is available for some students. 

Tuition: $11,468

Score: 97.00

#14. University of North Dakota

Grand forks, north dakota.

The University of North Dakota offers several online doctoral programs. Students can choose to earn a Ph.D. in Engineering, Communication, Computer Science, and more. However, the Doctor of Nursing Practice program is UND’s fastest program. This program requires only 37 credit hours for completion. And students can finish in as few as five semesters. That makes it the shortest doctoral program online for this list.

The online D.N.P. prepares candidates for leadership positions in nursing. And it will allow them to increase their impact on patient care. Some of the courses in the program include:

• Advanced Univariate Statistics
• Evidence-Based Research
• Health Informatics
• Health Policy
• Healthcare Economics, Finance, and Leadership
• Teaching and Learning

The courses are asynchronous. So students can log on anytime it is convenient. In addition, each student at UND has access to personalized advising and student support coaches. While the program is 100 percent online, you will have plenty of opportunities to interact with your peers and instructors. The shortest doctoral program online is also one of the most affordable at under $12,000 per academic year.

Tuition: $11,503

Score: 96.75

#15. Hampton University

Hampton, virginia.

Degree Program: Online Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management

Hampton University offers an excellent Online Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management doctoral degree. A total of 60 credits are needed to complete this two-year program, making it one of the fastest doctoral programs on our list. Graduate students who complete the program will be equipped to lead and facilitate change in educational organizations. There are two concentrations. Candidates can choose either a Higher Education or a Pre-K-12 Education concentration. Coursework will vary depending on which concentration you select. However, some of the courses for this fast doctoral degree include:

• Policy, Ethics, and Politics in Education
• Leadership Theory and Practice in Educational Organizations
• Diversity and Equality in Education
• Assessment, Evaluation, and Accountability
• Techniques and Problems in Educational Research

The program offers rolling admissions. Application deadlines are June 15th and April 1st. If a cohort is full, you will be considered for the next open cohort. Financial aid is available for graduate students who qualify. Applicants should have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in education. Those with a master’s degree do not need to take the GRE. However, they must have a GPA of at least 3.0. Other requirements for consideration include writing samples and letters of recommendation. Additionally, all candidates must provide a written statement of their professional plans.

Tuition: $13,099

Score: 96.50

#16. University of South Carolina

Columbia, south carolina.

Degree Program: Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction

The University of South Carolina offers an Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction. This fast doctoral degree is for those who want to gain additional knowledge in educational leadership. Students who complete this program will be prepared to use their new skills in K-12 schools, community colleges, and universities.

A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete the program, which takes about 30 months. However, graduate students can also take the program as a Post-Ed.S. or post-graduate certificate. In these cases, it can be completed with fewer credits. Some of the courses include:

• Introduction to Diversity and the Curriculum
• Advanced Study of Diversity and Curriculum
• Applications of Learning Principles
• Organizational Theory and System Design
• Data-Informed Decision Making
• Transformative/Anti-racist Leadership

The program is 100 percent online and led by faculty with expert knowledge in educational leadership. GRE or MAT is not required for admission.

Tuition: $13,734

Score: 96.25

Related: Best Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction Online

#17. Regis University

Denver, colorado.

Regis University offers a 100 percent online Doctor of Nursing Practice program. This fast doctoral program is the perfect option for professional nurses who are ready to advance their careers. And it can help propel them into more senior-level positions in nursing. Students can complete this program in as little as two years, making it one of the fastest doctoral programs on our list. Courses are offered in an eight-week format. A few of the courses in this Doctor of Nursing Practice program include:

• Informatics 
• Epidemiology and Health Promotion for Populations 
• Clinical Practice Research
• Health Policy Analysis and Development 
• Applied Statistics

In addition to the course requirements, students will complete three Capstone projects. And they will also have clinical hours. The online Doctor of Nursing Practice program begins each May. Candidates need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must also have a B grade or better in all graduate nursing courses. In addition, all applicants must pass a drug screening, criminal background check, and physical examination. 

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program is flexible. Students who want to complete the program quickly can opt for a two-year, six-semester option. Those who want to take a little longer can choose the three-year, nine-semester option. A total of 31 credit hours are needed to complete the program. 

Tuition: $14,063

Score: 96.00

#18. Maryville University

St. louis, missouri.

Maryville University offers an Online Doctorate of Nursing Practice. This program can be completed in as little as 20 months. And that makes it one of the fastest online doctoral programs on our list. The Doctor of Nursing Practice program is an excellent option for nursing students who want to quickly advance their knowledge in the field. Students can choose to pursue either a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a DNP-NP online. Depending on your chosen program, you can earn your credentials within 20 to 36 months of study. Some of the courses for these doctoral programs include:

• Principles of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
• Integrating and Synthesizing Research
• Advanced Health Care Policy
• Ethics For Advanced Nursing Practice
• Quality and Patient Safety in Advanced Nursing Practice
• Foundations of Clinical Scholarship

The coursework for this Doctor of Nursing Practice program is 100 percent online, with no campus visits required. Instead, students will complete their clinicals locally in their preferred setting. No GMAT or GRE scores are required. And once you are accepted, there is no waiting list. 

Tuition: $14,346

Score: 95.75

#19. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd valley, pennsylvania.

This next fast online Ph.D. is a Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Gwynedd Mercy University. It’s one of the fastest doctoral programs we’ve found. A total of 39 credit hours are needed to earn the doctoral degree. And most students can finish in about two years. Highly practical, a few of the courses include:

• Health Care Ethics for the Advanced Practice Nurse
• Statistical Analysis for Evidence-Based Practice
• Organizational Behavior & Social Policy
• Leadership as an Advanced Practice Nurse
• Technology for Advanced Practice Nurses

Pursuing this Doctor of Nursing Practice will give students the skills needed to move into administrative positions. Students work closely with GMercyU’s graduate nursing faculty. And they engage in many doctoral-level theoretical concepts. However, each candidate also develops an evidence-based practice project. With this project, they will gain advanced practice nursing clinical skills. 

All students will complete three scholarly internships. The program meets national licensure requirements. However, students should also check with their own state’s licensing requirements. 

Tuition: $14,587

Score: 95.50

#20. Northcentral University

San diego, california.

Degree Program: Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Northcentral University offers an online Educational Leadership doctoral degree. Students in this program gain the highest level of knowledge available in educational leadership. This fast Ph.D. online program is designed for working professionals. It allows them to pursue a doctoral degree while still maintaining their current roles. Additionally, there are weekly start dates. That means eager candidates can start their studies immediately.

The program requires 54 credit hours for completion, and there are 18 courses in all. Most students can finish the doctoral degree in as little as 35 months. One of the unique aspects of this program is that students can choose from 18 different EDD specializations. So the required coursework will depend on which one you choose. A few of the program specializations include:

• Curriculum and Teaching
• Early Childhood Education
• International Education and Globalization
• Nursing Education
• Organizational Leadership
• School Safety, Security, Emergency Management
• Special Education
• Sport and Athletic Management
• Social Emotional Learning
• Trauma-Informed Educational Practices

There are no residency or group work requirements with this program. Instead, students can log on and complete their studies whenever it is convenient for them. This fast online Ph.D. program is designed and taught by a 100 percent doctoral faculty. 

Tuition: $16,881

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Score: 95.25

See Also: Best Ph.D. in Higher Education Online

#21. University of Bridgeport

Bridgeport, connecticut.

Degree Program: Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership

Students at the University of Bridgeport can enroll in a fast online Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership. This hybrid program can be completed in 36 months, placing it among the fastest online doctoral programs on our list. It is delivered primarily online. However, students are required to visit the University of Bridgeport for two one-week residencies. A total of 62 credit hours are needed to earn the doctoral degree. There is a 42-credit option for those who have already completed a sixth-year post-master’s. Some of the courses in the program include:

• Introduction to Education Leadership
• Evaluation of School Effectiveness
• Workshop in Curriculum Development
• Organization Management
• Program Evaluation
• International Education Concepts & Theories

The University of Bridgeport provides its online students with a fantastic amount of support. For example, some of the services offered include:

• Personal Advising 
• Academic Assistance and Tutoring
• Career Planning
• Workshops and Seminars
• Financial Aid Guidance
• Counseling Services

Many program graduates go on to meaningful careers as school administrators, higher education leaders, and academic researchers. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and financial aid is available. Candidates must provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Additionally, the college requires a writing sample, resume, and TOEFL scores if English is not your first language. 

Tuition: $19,096

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Score: 95.00

#22. Nova Southeastern University

Broward county, florida.

Degree Program: Online PhD in Conflict Analysis and Resolution

Nova Southeastern University offers an online Conflict Analysis and Resolution doctoral degree. This program teaches students crucial interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills needed for leadership roles across many fields. Students can choose from four concentrations:

• Interpersonal Conflict
• Community-based Conflict
• Conflict in Organizations
• Global Conflict

A total of 76 credits are needed to complete the program, which can take as little as 30 months. The courses will depend on which specialization the student chooses. However, some of the core courses in this program include:

• Foundations and Development of Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies
• Communication Dynamics in Dispute Resolution: The Human Factor
• Mediation Theory and Practice
• Culture and Conflict: Cross-Cultural Perspectives
• Theories of Conflict and Conflict Resolution
• Public Policy
• Research Methods 

The program can be completed online or on campus in Fort Lauderdale. However, students who opt for the remote version must still attend two Residential Institutes per academic year. These residencies allow all participants to meet and collaborate with faculty, staff, and peers. 

Tuition: $21,153

Score: 94.75

#23. University of the Southwest

Hobbs, new mexico.

Students at the University of the Southwest can enroll in a fast Online Doctor of Business Administration. You can complete all your coursework 100 percent online. And there are no required residencies for the program. Courses in this program are offered in an 8-week format and include:

• Executive Leadership in Global Organizations 
• Information Technology in Global Competition
• Marketing Strategies: Competing in a Global Environment
• Disruptive Innovation in Organizational Strategy
• Creating Strategic Opportunities for Innovation
• Implementing Strategic Change 

The online doctoral degree is specifically designed for working professionals. Students will gain the skills and knowledge to expand their roles in their organizations. At the same time, they can continue working at their current positions while studying for their doctoral degree. Candidates can choose from four specializations to meet their professional and academic goals. They include:

• Healthcare Administration
• Data Analytics (Quantitative)
• Strategy and Innovation
• Leadership and Organizational Development

The program also has a Self-Design concentration. This allows students to work with an advisor and design a program tailored to their interests and goals. 

Tuition: $22,500

Score: 94.50

Related: Best Ph.D. in International Business Online

#24. Monmouth University

West long branch, new jersey.

Monmouth University offers a fast online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program. This program is an excellent pick for students who want to work in leadership roles in education. A total of 54 credits are needed to earn the Ed.D. The flexible format allows students to choose remote or in-person learning. However, students who wish to earn the doctoral degree online must contact the Program Director to discuss the details. Either way, you will have plenty of interaction with your peers and instructors in this cohort-based program. Some of the courses include:

• Adult Development and Transformative Learning
• Learning through Experience: Individuals and Organizations
• Leadership, Diversity, and Equity
• International Leadership Models
• Leadership and Change
• Contemporary Issues in Education

During the program, all students will participate in a Transformative Leadership Project. The project is designed around a real-world experience at a local school district. Each doctoral candidate selects, designs, and develops their own project. 

Tuition: $28,578

Score: 94.25

See Also: Best Doctorate in Educational Leadership Online

#25. Boston University

Boston, massachusetts.

Degree Program: Online Doctorate in Occupational Therapy

Boston University offers a unique online Doctorate Degree in Occupational Therapy. Flexible and convenient, students can complete this program without needing to relocate. Nor will they need to rearrange their busy schedules. Participants can expect to complete the program in 18 months, making it one of the fastest online doctoral programs on our list. 

A total of 33 credit hours are needed to earn this fast PhD online. The program is ideal for those who want to advance their occupational therapy skills to the highest degree. Some of the courses in the program include:

• Educational Theory and Practice
• Health Promotion and Wellness
• Social Policy and Disability
• Practicum in Social Policy and Disability
• Evaluating Clinical Theory and Research

All students will work on a Capstone Project and a Doctoral Project. In addition, students in this program take part in one-on-one faculty. And although the program is remote, there is plenty of opportunity to collaborate with peers worldwide. 

Tuition: $58,560

Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education

Score: 94.00

More About Online Doctoral Degree Programs

Online doctoral degree programs are becoming more common at colleges and universities nationwide. But many doctorate program students still have questions. This section will discuss some of the most common questions about online doctoral degree programs for doctoral students. 

Are All Online Doctorate Programs the Same?

No. Online doctorate programs can vary significantly among colleges. So if you’re considering an online doctoral degree, you’ll want to do your research. For example, some schools offer asynchronous online programs. An asynchronous online doctoral degree program is the most flexible program available. With these degree programs, students can log on and complete their studies whenever it is convenient. Rather than set class times, lectures are pre-recorded so doctoral students can access them anytime. 

Other colleges may offer online doctorate programs that are synchronous. With synchronous online programs, doctorate program students still access their coursework online. However, these degree programs have set live class schedules. Many students prefer the format of synchronous online degree programs. These programs allow more interaction with your classmates and instructors.

Hybrid online programs are another format used by some colleges. With hybrid online degree programs, students complete some online courses and some on-campus courses too. Hybrid programs are ideal for online doctoral degree students who live close to the university. It allows them flexibility while still having some structure to the online program. 

What About Residencies During Doctorate Degree Programs?

An important aspect of most doctorate degree programs is the residency component. Residencies give students in online programs a chance to meet with their peers and instructors. It’s a time for collaboration with fellow students who are also pursuing an online doctoral degree. And it’s a time when many candidates work on their capstone project. 

Many doctorate degree programs have required residencies. Students must come to these on-campus programs to earn their doctorate degree. If travel is not an option for you, carefully review the doctorate degree requirements before committing to an online program. There are other online doctorate degree programs with no required residencies. 

Are Online Doctoral Programs the Same as On-campus Programs?

Most online doctorate degree programs are identical to the degree programs offered on campus. The only difference is that students access their assignments through the internet. In addition, these doctorate degree programs are typically designed and taught by the same expert faculty members. And students who complete their doctorate degree online earn the same diploma as those who finish their doctorate degree on campus.

What Are the Fastest Online Doctorate Degree Programs?

The fastest Online Doctorate Degree Programs are online accelerated PhD programs. These programs may allow students to roll a generous amount of credit hours from their master’s degree into the doctorate degree.

With some accelerated online programs, students can apply credit for prior learning, or CPL. This is where students gain credit hours for training that has taken place outside of the traditional classroom. Of course, only some accelerated online programs allow CPL, but it’s worth looking into. This is especially true if you’re looking for the shortest doctoral program online.

How Can I Get My Online Doctorate Degree Faster?

With most full-time online Ph.D programs, students can earn their doctorate degrees within three years. But there are a lot of things that can affect how long it takes to earn an online doctorate. For example, some accelerated programs allow students to go at their own pace. In this case, very motivated doctorate program students may be able to finish their online program sooner.

Also, some of the quickest doctorate degree programs on our list take just two years to complete. So if you’re looking for the fastest doctorate programs, shopping around is essential. That way, you will know what’s available for accelerated online programs. 

This concludes our ranking of the quickest PhD programs online.

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Fastest Online Ph.D. Programs

Ph.D. stands for doctor of philosophy and denotes the highest university degree in any field. In Ph.D. programs, students become experts in their field of study. They produce original research and defend their knowledge against committees of established scholars.

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.

The Top Seven Fastest Online Ph.D. Programs

Accreditation for online ph.d. programs, featured online programs.

School accreditation is a form of quality assurance and allows students to know they are receiving a certain standard of education. The United States features regional accrediting agencies and national accrediting agencies. Regional accrediting agencies are generally considered to be more prestigious and adhere to a more consistent standard. Credits earned at regionally accredited institutions transfer easier to other regionally accredited institutions.

National accrediting agencies typically specialize in vocational, technical, or professional programs and can be discipline-specific. An online Ph.D. program may be housed in a regionally accredited institution and accredited by a program-specific national accrediting agency. An example of a discipline-specific accrediting agency that focuses on doctoral-level programs is the American Psychological Association (APA). The APA evaluates doctoral, internship, and postdoctoral programs in psychology.

Students should ensure their desired program is accredited. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) provides a database of accredited postsecondary institutions and programs.

Financial Aid for Doctoral Students

Doctoral students can apply for many types of funding, including loans, grants, scholarships, fellowships, and teaching or research assistantships. Learners should begin by submitting the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal aid. Graduate students are eligible for direct unsubsidized loans and direct PLUS loans. However, only undergraduates may receive direct unsubsidized loans. Students with unsubsidized loans must pay interest during all periods. With subsidized loans, the ED pays interest while students are enrolled at least part time.

Degree-seekers can also research financial aid opportunities at the institutional level, including fellowships and teaching or research assistantships. Fellowships are similar to scholarships in that they include a tuition waiver and stipend that do not require repayment. Some programs fully fund every student, making the admissions process highly selective. Students can also work as teaching or research assistants, trading their labor for a tuition waiver and stipend.

Scholarships for Doctoral Students

Many scholarships exist for doctoral students, including merit-based awards and scholarships for specific communities or fields. Graduate students may also be eligible for fellowships, which provide more comprehensive financial benefits. Some fellowships cover tuition and provide a stipend for living expenses, allowing students to focus on their studies. Others fellowships support research activities.

American Psychological Association Minority Fellowship Who Can Apply : Available to minority students pursuing doctoral or postdoctoral education in psychology, this fellowship aims to increase the number of minority professionals in the field. Awardees also gain access to developmental resources and mentorship. Amount : $50,000

AICPA Fellowship for Minority Doctoral Students Who Can Apply : This fellowship is available to minority students who have applied to, been accepted to, or are currently enrolled in a doctoral program accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, Accreditation Council for Business Programs and Schools, or International Accreditation Council for Business Education. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and have a master’s degree. Amount : $12,000 annually

Ford Foundation Fellowships Who Can Apply : This fellowship is available to all U.S. nationals and permanent residents who demonstrate evidence of academic excellence and are committed to a career in teaching and research upon graduation. Amount : Varies

CMA Doctoral Scholarship Program Who Can Apply : This scholarship is available to any student in an accredited doctoral accounting program specializing in financial management or management accounting. Awardees receive a comprehensive benefits package that allows them to take the certified management accountant exam at no cost. Amount : Approximately $1,310

Hispanic Scholarship Fund Who Can Apply : This scholarship is available to full-time students of Hispanic heritage who have earned a minimum 2.5 GPA in their undergraduate coursework in an accredited graduate program. Amount : $500-$5,000

Why Get a Ph.D.?

Earning a Ph.D. allows professionals to work as college professors, researchers, and specialized therapists. Not all doctoral programs are Ph.D. programs. For instance, the doctor of pharmacy and the juris doctor are professional doctorates that allow graduates to practice pharmacy and law, respectively.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , individuals with a Ph.D. typically earn higher median salaries and experience lower unemployment rates than other professionals. They work for universities, research institutions, for-profit businesses, government agencies, and profits.

Aside from career advancement, professionals may pursue a doctorate out of passion or intellectual interest in a particular field. They may desire to expand their knowledge in a certain topic or conduct research to make new discoveries.

Accelerated online Ph.D. programs, including one-year Ph.D. programs online, are becoming increasingly available. Fast online Ph.D. programs allow students to save money on tuition because they do not need to pay for as many years of tuition or course materials.

Read below for an alphabetical listing of some of the country’s fastest online Ph.D. programs.

Bowling Green State University

The Ph.D. in Technology Management from Bowling Green State University is a web-based program that attracts students from a diverse set of backgrounds. With five specializations to choose from, including Construction Management, Digital Communications, Human Resource Development and Training, Manufacturing Systems, and Quality Systems, there is a course of study for any technical professional. The program is offered in cooperation with five other accredited institutions and can be completed within 66 credit hours. This program offering is a great fit for working professionals with industry experience that are highly motivated to advance their career.

East Carolina University

Prepare for a leadership role in nursing science and health care. East Carolina University offers a hybrid online curriculum for students pursuing a Ph.D. in nursing, with a progressive number of online courses available to students as they advance through the program. The paths of study available in the College of Nursing include BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, and DNP to PhD. The DNP to PhD program is an accelerated pathway that allows students to apply coursework from a DNP program to fulfill PhD requirements.

Georgia State University

The Ph.D. in Nursing program at Georgia State University is almost exclusively online, with minimal on-campus meetings. As one of the oldest nursing programs in the state, it’s a well-established and well-known programs for students looking to advance their nursing career. As opposed to other advanced nursing degrees, the Ph.D. does not require clinical practice.The program can be accomplished full time or part time to accommodate the needs of working professionals. In total, the program is 60 credit hours in length.

Hampton University

The Ph.D. in Educational Management program at Hampton University teaches students innovative educational strategies to advance their careers. This online, accelerated program focuses on relevant current topics in education leadership. Students can select one of four specialization areas: pre-K-12, higher education, special education, or STEM. Students typically complete the program in 66 degree credits over 2.5 years. As education becomes more complex, this program helps students gain the skills they need to be at the forefront of the field.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

The nursing program at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania will prepare students for a teaching career in the dynamic nursing field. Attend courses with experiences faculty and conduct cutting edge research as you advance your career. This program can be completed in as few as 11 semesters and courses are offered in a hybrid format to meet the needs of working professionals. The university also offers a DNP to Ph.D. program that students can select to shorten the time to earning a Ph.D.

Kansas State University

Kansas State University’s Ph.D. in Personal Financial Planning is an outstanding program for working professionals. It’s the first program of its kind in the nation to be offered almost entirely online, and students in the program can earn their degree in 5 years or less. Annual, on-site summer intensives and a cohort model help students feel connected, even when studying remotely. Full time and part time program options are available, and students can opt to complete the program on campus. This program is proud to be one of five doctoral programs currently registered with the CFP Board.

Walden University

Walden University offers multiple advanced degree programs in an entirely online format. The university caters to working professionals and has a diverse student body. As a Certified B Corporation, Walden University prides itself on giving back and fostering growth in its students. Doctoral programs available from the university include Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, Ph.D. in Education, Ph.D. in Management, Ph.D. in Public Health, Ph.D. in Nursing, Ph.D. in Social Work, and more.

Embrace the convenience of online learning and shape your own path to success.

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• CORRESPONDENCE
• 02 April 2024

How can we make PhD training fit for the modern world? Broaden its philosophical foundations

• Ganesh Alagarasan 0

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Tirupati, India.

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You have highlighted how PhD training assessment has stagnated, despite evolving educational methodologies (see Nature 613 , 414 (2023) and Nature 627 , 244; 2024 ). In particular, you note the mismatch between the current PhD journey and the multifaceted demands of modern research and societal challenges.

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Nature 628 , 36 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00969-x

Competing Interests

The author declares no competing interests.

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Top 20 Fastest Online Doctoral Programs

Find your degree.

There are many reasons why some students choose to look for the absolute fastest programs for higher education, and one large reason is money. Spending longer on getting a degree usually means spending more, even though it often will mean earning more in the long run.

Another reason for choosing a fast program to earn a doctorate would be to finish school, at least for that selected path. There are different ways to go about earning a doctoral degree ; some choose a program after obtaining their bachelor’s degree, while others choose a master’s program and then later go back for their doctorate. The speed of an online doctorate program often depends on which pathway the student chooses. Some 100% online colleges and universities can combine master’s and doctorate-level coursework to get the students to their doctoral goal in the fastest manner available.

Other programs work from previous schooling records and can be as brief as two years and sometimes even less, provided the student already has their master’s degree. Here we’ll be taking a look at the best of both worlds. You might also want to check out our list of the most affordable online graduate programs .

Table of Contents

Methodology

Sources used to collect data include the following:

• Individual school websites
• CollegeData

To determine the fastest doctoral programs, the number of credits, as well as the projected duration of the programs, were taken into consideration. The shortest possible duration was chosen in cases where there was more than one option for the duration. Schools are ranked by duration as the primary criteria.

In cases where program duration was extremely similar or tied, schools that offered the programs were then ranked by:

• overall student opinion provided by Niche
• affordability factor with the cost of attendance information provided by CollegeData or NCES
• and a combination of student retention and graduation rates as provided by NCES

While one might argue that retention and graduation rates are not relevant to obtaining a doctoral degree, it is used as a reflection of the overall quality of the school. Schools evaluated for this ranking include private not-for-profit and public institutions.

Notes: No schools in any of OnlineCollegePlan ‘s rankings are given preferential treatment, and we have never been requested to do so. Our methodology is fully disclosed so that anyone can arrive at the same ranking using the formula as explained.

Some schools or programs may have been excluded due to insufficient data available.

Students looking to attend college online may be interested in checking out our rankings for the Top 100 Best Online Colleges .

20. Concordia University Chicago

Over 5,700 students are enrolled at Concordia University Chicago in the suburban village of River Forest, Illinois. It is a private, liberal arts school and was founded in 1864 in Addison, Illinois, as Addison Teachers Seminary, and the institution is the oldest in the Concordia University system. Throughout the years, the school has grown and changed, and so have the names. The university became the current Concordia University Chicago a few years back. The Concordia University Chicago notable alumni are a talented group of individuals which includes Mark Warkentien, Paul Walter Hauser, Carl Schalk, Paul Manz, and Alice Hausman, to name just a few.

Concordia University Chicago offers students a program for a Doctorate in Business Administration with two specializations to choose from, Innovation in Health Care and Leadership and Innovation. The program is available with an online option as well as on campus. There are three courses with residency requirements; however, online courses offer flexibility for working professionals. Students will be paired with a mentor in the second term of their studies. The mentor will help the student to build their dissertation and contribute to their overall success with the program. Students should be able to complete their dissertation by the end of their third year.

If you wish to learn more or would like to connect, please use the following links:

Concordia University-Chicago’s Website – https://www.cuchicago.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ConcordiaUniversityChicago

Twitter – https://twitter.com/CUChicago

19. University of Michigan-Flint

The University of Michigan-Flint, often called UM-Flint, is a public university located in Flint, Michigan. It is one of two satellite campuses in the University of Michigan system and was established in 1956. Today the school enrolls nearly 8,000 students, with the majority being undergraduates. University of Michigan-Flint notable alumni include Michael Moore, Donald Reigle, Christopher Paul Curtis, John Sinclair, and John D. Cherry, to name a few.

UM-Flint offers an online Doctor in Nursing Practice program which can be approached by multiple pathways. Students who are RNs and hold a bachelor’s degree outside of the nursing field, BSN-DNP, and MSN-DNP are eligible pathways to obtain a DNP at UM-Flint. For all pathways, there are minimal visits required to campus; however, the majority of the program is completed in the online format. For more detailed information on the program pathway you are interested in pursuing, prospective students can visit the website as well as contact the university.

UM Flint’s Website – https://www.umflint.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/umflint

Twitter – https://twitter.com/UMFlint

18. Nova Southeastern University

The 314-acre Fort Lauderdale/Davie campus is the main campus for Nova Southeastern University, commonly called NSU or Nova. It is conveniently located minutes away from the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood airport. The institution was first chartered in 1964 as Nova University of Advanced Technology and served as a graduate school for physical and social sciences. Over time it added courses, and in 1994 it merged with Southeastern University of Health Sciences to form Nova Southeastern University. Today, NSU serves more than 21,000 students and offers more than 150 programs of study, including many professional degrees, and is known for its innovative distance education programs. Nova Southeastern University’s notable alumni include a number of successful and talented people such as Dee Gordon, J.D. Martinez, Anastagia Pierre, Will Kirby, and many more.

As a leader in distance education, NSU offers several doctoral programs in the online format. Most of these programs have a recommended 3-year sequence which can be downloaded by prospective students. As with many online programs, there may be some elements that require face-to-face meetings or time spent on campus. Students interested in online programs should read all available material and contact the school for more information. The online doctoral programs offered by NSU include:

• Ph.D. in Criminal Justice
• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) with a concentration in Curriculum and Teaching
• Doctor of Education with a concentration in Educational Leadership
• Doctor of Education with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership
• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) with a concentration in Human Services Administration
• Doctor of Education with a concentration in Instructional Technology and Distance Education
• Doctor of Education with a concentration in Organizational Leadership
• Doctor of Education with a concentration in Reading
• Doctor of Education with a concentration in Special Education
• PH.D. in Nursing, Focusing on Nursing Education
• Occupational Therapy (PHD)

NSU’s Website – https://www.nova.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/NSUFlorida

Twitter – https://twitter.com/nsuflorida

17. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, Maryland, is home to Johns Hopkins University, commonly referred to as simply Johns Hopkins or JHU. The school was founded in 1876 and is named for its first benefactor, the American entrepreneur Johns Hopkins. He bequeathed 7 million dollars to fund a hospital and university, and at the time, it was the largest philanthropic gift in United States history. Johns Hopkins is considered the first research university in the United States. Today, the school serves more than 20,000 students from all over the United States as well as from around the world. Johns Hopkins University’s notable alumni include a vast array of people, such as multiple Nobel Laureates, the first affirmed laureate being Woodrow Wilson. Michael Bloomberg, Paul Rabil, Wilder Penfield, and Bert Vogelstein are also among the names of the many who have been students of Johns Hopkins University.

Johns Hopkins School of Education offers doctoral students an online Doctor of Education (EdD) program designed for flexibility so that participants can adapt their studies to their particular educational environment. The doctoral program is highly competitive, with limited admissions each year, with applicants from countries around the globe. As a result, graduates of the program are known to set high standards for leadership in education. They are also able to use their knowledge and apply practices to improve educational outcomes and meet challenges in their field concerning improvements in learning and being successful. Students who apply for the program are required to choose an area of specialization. The current specializations offered are Urban Leadership, Mind, Brain & Teaching, and Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education. The program duration is 3 to 4 years, and students are required to complete their dissertation within seven years.

Johns Hopkins’ Website – https://www.jhu.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/johnshopkinsuniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/johnshopkins

16. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri, also known as Mizzou or MU, can be found in Columbia, Missouri. The school was founded in 1839 and was the first public institution of higher learning to be on the west side of the Mississippi River. It is the flagship campus of the University of Missouri System and is a land-grant and space-grant institution. It is one of the top research institutions in the United States and one of only 34 public universities which are members of the Association of American Universities. Currently, enrollment for Mizzou is over 30,000 students. The University of Missouri’s notable alumni are plentiful and include Brad Pitt, Sheryl Crow, Sam Walton, and Tennessee Williams, to name a small few.

The University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing offers doctoral students several online programs, which are often completed in three years of study. Although these are primarily online, most of the programs do require a visit to campus prior to starting the program for orientation and other visits throughout the course of studies.

There is a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) program offered, which requires between 56 and 77 credit hours depending on the level of degree the student already has.

Mizzou also offers several DNP programs in various concentrations online. These are:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Emphasis in Family Nurse Practitioner
• Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Emphasis in Nursing Leadership and Innovations in Health Care
• Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Emphasis in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Emphasis in Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist

Mizzou’s Website – https://missouri.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Mizzou

Twitter – https://twitter.com/Mizzou

15. University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, is the flagship university of the University of Tennessee system, University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). The public land-grant and sun-grant university was founded in 1794, making it older than the 16th state, which is its home. UTK contains nine undergraduate colleges and eleven graduate colleges to serve its nearly 28,000 students who come from all over the United States and more than 100 countries around the world. The University of Tennessee’s notable alumni includes seven Rhodes Scholars, James M. Buchanan, M.S., who received the 1986 Nobel Prize in Economics, Peyton Manning, Alvin Kamara, Dave Ramsey, and Bob Corker, to name a few.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, offers doctoral students an online Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice and Leadership (DSW) program through their College of Social Work. Designed for working professionals, the program is offered in an intensive, accelerated format that allows students to be able to complete their degree within three years without disruption to their career or work schedule. This unique professional practice degree is taught online through both synchronous and asynchronous models. Students will take two three-credit hour courses each semester over eight continuous semesters, including the summer, which will total to 48 credit hours.

UTK’s Website – https://www.utk.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/UTKnoxville

Twitter – https://twitter.com/utknoxville

14. East Carolina University

The public doctoral and research university of East Carolina University (ECU) is located in Greenville, North Carolina, and is the third largest in the state. The school is a land-grant and sea-grant institution as well as an Innovation and Economic Prosperity campus. The school was founded as a teacher training school in 1907 and has grown from 43 acres in the beginning to nearly 1,600 acres today. There are six properties that contain the university’s academic facilities, which are the Main Campus, Health Sciences Campus, West Research Campus, located a bit further away in Greenville, NC is the Millennial Research Innovation Campus, a Field Station for Coastal Studies is in New Holland, NC, and there is also a campus in Certaldo Alto, Italy. There is a large number of East Carolina University notable alumni who have excelled in their field, whether they are in business, politics and government, arts, entertainment, or athletics. Both Linda and Vince McMahon, Sandra Bullock, Chris Johnson, and Mike Trout are just a few names of ECU alumni.

East Carolina University College of Nursing offers students an online Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) for working professionals who want to become researchers and scholars who develop and explore the science which drives and improves nursing practice and education leading to innovations in the field. The program prepares graduates for a leadership role in nursing as well as enhancing their analytical abilities to innovate and collaborate on interdisciplinary projects. Students are required to complete at least 54 semester hours beyond their master’s degree, with at least 6 of those hours for their dissertation. Students who choose to pursue a BSN to PhD are required to complete between 72 and 77 semester hours. Students who have already obtained their DNP are still required to complete 54 semester hours, although 15 hours from a DNP program may be used to fulfill the requirements of this program.

ECU’s Website – https://www.ecu.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/EastCarolina

Twitter – https://twitter.com/eastcarolina

13. Bradley University

Bradley University is a private university in Peoria, Illinois. The school was founded in 1897 by philanthropist Lydia Moss Bradley in loving memory of her family who passed before her. Today, the school contains five colleges and enrolls more than 5,400 students and offers over 100 undergraduate programs and more than 30 programs for graduate students. All courses are taught by professors and not teaching assistants. Bradley University’s notable alumni include a variety of professionals in areas such as politics and government, arts and entertainment, and athletics. Among the alumni are Neil Flynn, Charley Steiner, Ray LaHood, Chet Walker, and Jerry Hadley, just a few.

Bradley University offers students two online options for earning the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. The program pathway that takes less time to complete is the DNP – Leadership Track (MSN Entry), with an average of 3 years. However, students beginning with a BSN on their path to earning their DNP can complete their program in around four years which may save time in the long run, although the duration is greater program versus program. The DNP – Leadership Track is about 39 credit hours and usually takes nine semesters to complete. While there is no residency requirement, students are to complete a supervised clinical practicum and complete a clinical project in order to finish the program and earn their degree. Students are admitted into the program three times a year in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Graduates of the program will have acquired the expertise to inform and shape healthcare policy and enhanced their knowledge of financial and personnel management and leadership. They will be prepared and qualified to take on leadership roles in areas such as administration, teaching, research, and patient care.

Bradley’s Website – https://www.bradley.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/BradleyUniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/bradleyu

12. Monmouth University

Monmouth University is a private university in West Long Branch, New Jersey which is in Monmouth County. The institution was founded in 1933 and was named Monmouth Junior College. It was 1956 when the school dropped the Junior to become only Monmouth College, and finally, in 1995, the school changed to Monmouth University after gaining university status. Currently, the school enrolls over 6,000 graduate and undergraduate students and offers about a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio with class sizes that are limited between 20 and 35 students, and none of their courses are taught by teaching assistants.

Monmouth University offers the doctoral program, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) , for practicing nursing professionals who would like to take themselves and their careers to the next level by obtaining the highest clinical degree available in nursing. The program is 36 credit hours, and students have a choice of taking either one or two courses per semester in the fall, spring, and summer for maximum flexibility. The program will focus on organizational or systems leadership and scholarship to address the highly complex healthcare environments which continue to evolve at a rapid pace. Students are taught and mentored by the distinguished faculty at Monmouth University as they work on and complete their DNP project and the practice immersion experience in order to earn their doctoral degree.

Monmouth University’s Website – https://www.monmouth.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/MonmouthUniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/monmouthu

11. Maryville University of St. Louis

Maryville University of St. Louis, most often called simply Maryville or Maryville University, is a private institution which is located in the city of Town and Country, Missouri, which is a suburb in west St. Louis County. Founded in 1872 by the Religious of the Sacred Heart, the school was originally an academy for underprivileged youths and young women. There are six colleges and schools at Maryville which serve more than 6,000 enrolled students. Maryville University’s notable alumni include Sally A. Faith, Jerry Costello, Theresa Obermeyer, Adelina Otero-Warren, and many others who have gone on to excel in their chosen fields.

Maryville University offers a Doctor of Nursing Pra c tice (D.N.P.) online program for doctoral students. For professionals who have already earned their MSN, the program consists of 11 courses with 33 credit hours in total and can be completed in as few as 20 months. The program is designed for advanced practice nurses with the desire to take their careers to a higher level and learn how to impact patient care from that level. Program content that is beyond the MSN level includes:

• systems thinking
• health policy aimed at patient advocacy
• ethics in advanced nursing practice
• patient safety and quality
• completion of a scholarly project that uses evidence-based practice

Maryville’s Website – https://www.maryville.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/MaryvilleUniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/maryvilleu

10. Regis University

Founded in 1877 by the Society of Jesus, Regis University is a private Roman Catholic university in Denver, Colorado. The university is a member of the Associate of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Regis is comprised of 5 colleges to serve more than 8,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Regis University’s notable alumni include Bill Murray, John P. Farley, Katee Doland, Campbell Brown, Stephen McNichols, and many others who have excelled in areas such as business, athletics, politics and government, arts, and entertainment.

Regis University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program online for nursing professionals who wish to get the highest clinical degree available. Many leaders in the nursing field obtain their DNP and are able to sit at the table with physicians and administrators in order to discuss decisions and help shape the future of healthcare. The online program has a 2-year and a 3-year option with courses beginning in the Summer session. Most courses are in an 8-week format, with only a few taking a full semester.

Regis University’s Website – www.regis.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/regisuniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/regisuniversity

9. Seton Hall University

South Orange, New Jersey, is home to Seton Hall University. It is a private Roman Catholic university that was formally founded in 1856 by Newark Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley, cousin to President Theodore Roosevelt. The university is named for Bishop Bayley’s aunt, Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton, who was named the first American-born Catholic saint. Seton Hall is the oldest diocesan university in the country. The school enrolls more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Seton Hall University’s notable alumni include a variety of those who have excelled in areas of academia, politics or government, business, athletics, literature, arts, and entertainment.

Seton Hall University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program online for students and professionals who desire to obtain the highest possible clinical degree in the nursing field. Students will learn advanced knowledge in areas of population health, healthcare systems as well as business and evidence-based practice. The program offers two paths, one for students who have their BSN, which is between 73 and 79 credits, or 32 to 33 credits for students who have already obtained their MSN in direct or indirect care. The end of the program is the completion of the Final Scholarly Project, which has a focus on quality improvement and translational science to improve systems of care, patient outcomes, as well as safety and overall quality in clinical practice and administration.

SHU’s Website – https://www.shu.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/setonhall

Twitter – https://twitter.com/setonhall

8. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota (UND) is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and is a public university that was founded with a strong liberal arts foundation and has grown into a prominent research university and is classified as having high research activity by the Carnegie Foundation. Older than the state itself by six years, the school was founded in 1883, and the first classes were held the following year. Today, UND serves more than 14,000 students and is regarded as one of the top academic and research institutions in the northern Midwest. The University of North Dakota’s notable alumni are a diverse group in many different areas of excellence and notoriety, from politics and government to entertainment and the arts, sciences, to athletics. Among the alumni are eight governors of North Dakota, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and author Maxwell Anderson, and the Rhodes scholar and poet Thomas McGrath.

UND offers students an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program for working professionals who want to be among the most educated and qualified practitioners in their profession. Graduates of the program are clinical leaders who have an integral role in their interdisciplinary healthcare teams. Nurses with their DNP utilize their expertise to improve the quality of healthcare and help influence health policies in order to provide overall better healthcare outcomes. The program lasts for five semesters and can be completed in 2 years. School Profile

UND’s Website – und.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/UofNorthDakota

Twitter – https://twitter.com/uofnorthdakota

7. University of Florida

The University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville, Florida, is a public land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant research university and proud home to the Gators, the name of their athletic teams. The origins of UF can be traced back as far as 1853, and the university has resided on its current campus continuously since 1906. The university is the third largest in Florida by student population, with more than 54,000 students on their 2,000-acre campus, and is the eighth largest single-campus university in the country. The University of Florida contains 16 academic colleges and more than 150 research centers and institutes. University of Florida’s notable Alumni include Marco Rubio, Bob Graham, Faye Dunaway, Emmitt Smith, Kevin Ford, and many more.

The University of Florida offers doctoral students a CCNE-accredited Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program through the College of Nursing. The DNP program offered at UF was one of the state’s first DNP programs. There are two paths available for students, one is a BSN to DNP, and the other is an MSN to DNP program. The MSN to DNP program is primarily online and has minimal attendance on campus required. The program is 35 credit hours and can be completed in 5 semesters.

UF’s Website – www.ufl.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/uflorida

Twitter – https://twitter.com/uf

6. Liberty University

Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University (LU) is the largest Christian university in the world by enrollment and the largest non-profit university in the country. LU was founded as Lynchburg Baptist College in 1971 by the evangelist and Senior Pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church, Jerry Falwell. Five years later, the school was renamed Liberty Baptist College and changed to simply Liberty University when it obtained university status in 1984. The university has had the honor twice of having a sitting United States President to speak at its commencement, first in 1990 when George H.W. Bush spoke, and most recently in 2017 when current President Donald Trump delivered his keynote speech. Liberty University’s notable alumni include Jerry Falwell, Jr., the current President and Chancellor at LU; Jonathan Falwell, son of Jerry Falwell and Senior Pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church; William Franklin Graham IV, evangelist and grandson of Billy Graham; Terry Fator, singer, and ventriloquist; members of the Christian rock band Anthem Lights; multiple politicians of local and national levels; athletes and sports figures in many different sports; and so many more.

Liberty University offers its students a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) program, which is 100% online. Doctoral students will sharpen their ministry skills and develop a deeper understanding of biblical principles and strategies which help them to serve more effectively in their pastoral roles. There are opportunities for students to interact with well-known church leaders while pursuing their doctorate in order to heighten their understanding of purpose. There are 33 total hours required for the degree; however, six of these may be transferred credits. A nine-credit hour thesis is required as part of the program. There are optional intensives available for students. There is a variety of cognates available for students to pick from, which include Biblical Studies, Chaplaincy, Church Revitalization, Discipleship, Evangelism & Church Planting, Expository Preaching, Pastoral Counseling, Pastoral Leadership, Theology and Apologetics, and Worship. School Profile

LU’s Website – https://www.liberty.edu/online/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/LibertyUniversityOnline

Twitter – https://twitter.com/libertyuonline

5. The College of St. Scholastica

The College of St. Scholastica is a Roman Catholic-affiliated private college in Duluth, Minnesota. While the college is able to trace its roots as far back as 1892 to a private academy, it was officially established in 1912 when it expanded to include a junior college. Today, the college enrolls more than 4,000 students and has five other campuses as well as a virtual campus. The College of St. Scholastica’s notable alumni includes Emily Larson, the mayor of Duluth; Don Ness, the former mayor of Duluth; Patrick J. Schiltz, US District Judge, District of Minnesota; Scott Jurek, the ultramarathon runner; and more.

The College of St. Scholastica offers an online Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) program for doctoral students. The program is 100% online and can be completed in 2 years. It is also a condensed program with only six classes for students to complete for a total of 16 credit hours. The program is designed to be ideal for practicing therapists and is taught by faculty who are also experienced clinical practitioners.

CSS’s Website – www.css.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/stscholastica

Twitter – https://twitter.com/stscholastica

4. Duquesne University

Duquesne University of the Holy Spirit, founded in 1878 and located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a private Catholic university. The school was originally named Pittsburgh Catholic College of the Holy Ghost and was founded by members of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit. The school began with a meager 40 students and today serves more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Duquesne was the first Catholic university-level institution in Pennsylvania and is the only Spiritan institution of higher learning in the world. The name of the institution is derived from Michel-Ange Duquesne de Menneville, an 18th-century governor of New France. Duquesne University’s notable alumni include two cardinals and the current bishop of Pittsburgh.

An Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is offered at Duquesne University for doctoral students who are ready to advance their careers as well as help shape the future of nursing. MSN-DNP graduates have many different career paths from which to choose, including healthcare administrator, healthcare manager or clinical leader, public health policy-maker, nurse executive, advanced clinical educator, and more. Coursework is completed 100% online, and students are paired with a faculty member in order to work one-on-one. The program is a total of 35 credits broken down into nine three-credit courses and two four-credit courses. Students are able to complete the program in as few as two years. While the program is online, there is a brief on-campus orientation for students before beginning their studies.

Duquesne University’s Website – www.duq.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/duquesneuniversityoftheholyspirit

Twitter – https://twitter.com/duqedu

3. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Mercy University (GMercyU) in Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1948 as Gwynedd-Mercy College and was a junior college. In 1963 the college was rechartered as a baccalaureate institution of higher learning and later renamed the present Gwynedd Mercy University. The school rests on what was once known as Willowbrook Farm and was owned by the Bond Family. The family’s son, James Bond, was a well-respected ornithologist whose name later became famous as it caught Ian Fleming’s eye upon the cover of the book, Birds of the West Indies authored by James. This then became the name Fleming used for his international man of mystery.

Gwynedd Mercy University offers doctoral students an Accelerated Executive Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership ABD completion program for those who have completed coursework but have not completed their dissertation. This doctoral-level program allows students to leave behind their ABD (All But Dissertation) status and obtain their EdD. There is a minimum of 27 credit hours of coursework and practicum experience required with GMercyU, which should take about 18 months. Students will be prepared for an advanced career in areas such as research, policy analysis, or school administration upon completion.

GMU’s Website – https://www.gmercyu.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/GMercyU

Twitter – https://twitter.com/gmercyu

2. Boston University

Boston University (BU) is located in Beantown (Boston), with its main campus along the Charles River in the great state of Massachusetts. BU can trace its roots back to 1839; however, it was not formally chartered until 1869. It is a private research university and is nonsectarian, although it is historically affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Boston University’s notable alumni include Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, Bill O’Reilly, Geena Davis, Jason Alexander, Howard Stern, Alfre Woodard, and many more.

Boston University College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College offers doctoral students an Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy program. This program is designed for occupational therapy practitioners who want to help shape the future of occupational therapy. Qualified students should either have a BS and MS in occupational therapy from an ACOTE or WFOT-accredited degree program or be able to provide a National Government Recognition document of their program in occupational therapy. To be exempt from the GRE, students must have obtained a GPA of 3.0 or better (according to the U.S. 4-point scale) in their OT program. Students are able to be matriculated into the program in January, May, and September. The program offers the highest level of quality education and a strong mentorship model as students are paired in a one-on-one relationship with BU faculty. As an online program, there is a focus on flexibility in the design in harmony with personal guidance.

BU’s Website – https://www.bu.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/BostonUniversity

Twitter – https://twitter.com/BU_Tweets

1. Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University is located in Hyden, Kentucky, and was established in 1939 by the Frontier Nursing Service. The school was previously known as The Frontier Graduate School of Midwifery and later Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing and finally, in 2011, became Frontier Nursing University. The university is also credited as being the first graduate school of nurse-midwifery to offer distance education, creating the program as a collaborative effort with several other institutions in 1989 & 1990.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice , which is the highest degree for clinical nursing practice, is offered by Frontier Nursing University and is designed for registered nurses who have the will and ambition to take their education and careers to the next level. There are two paths for doctoral students to take in order to earn their DNP. One is a post-masters DNP, and the other is starting with an MSN or PGC with an option to complete a DNP. For students who already have an MSN, the DNP program is 28 credit hours and is designed for certified nurse midwives as well as nurse practitioners. Meanwhile, students who are registered nurses seeking their MSN or Post-Graduate Certificate at Frontier Nursing University are able to complete their DNP with 19 additional credit hours as the curriculum incorporates many of the DNP core competencies.

Frontier’s Website – https://frontier.edu/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/FrontierSchool

Twitter – https://twitter.com/FrontierNursing

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60 Famous Ph.D. Theses In History

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Obtaining a PhD is a huge undertaking that requires endless hours of research, testing, and writing. In the end, a thesis is written and if defended successfully a PhD degree is awarded. If it is not successfully defended, all of the time and effort you put into it was for nothing – in most cases.

Here are 60 famous Ph.D. theses throughout history. Some were successfully defended, while others were rejected and mocked. Yet somehow they have still made history. Take a tour through history!

1. Marie Curie

Curie wrote a PhD thesis titled “ Radioactive Substances ” in 1903 for which she was awarded a Nobel Prize in Physics. Her handwritten thesis and other documents are kept in a lead-lined box to this day because they are too radioactive to be touched.

2. Albert Einstein

Einstein’s PhD thesis titled “A New Determination of Molecular Dimensions” was completed in 1906 and is the world’s most cited work.

3. Bernhard Riemann

Riemann’s PhD thesis titled “On the Hypotheses Which Lie At the Basis of Geometry” was completed in 1968 and gave rise to Riemannian geometry, which was used by Albert Einstein to explain the concept of relativity.

4. Kim Eric Drexler

When Drexler completed his PhD thesis titled “Molecular Machinery and Manufacturing with Applications to Computation” in 1991 he had discovered and invented the field of molecular nanotechnology.

5. Karl Marx

Marx’s PhD thesis titled “The Difference Between the Democritean and Epicurean Philosophy of Nature” was completed in 1841 and debated between freedom and determinism.

6. Claude Shannon

Shannon’s PhD thesis titled “A Symbolic Analysis of Relay and Switching Circuits” was written in 1937 and laid the groundwork for all digital technology.

7. Stephen Hawking

Hawking’s PhD thesis Properties of Expanding Universes laid out his theory of how the universe was created.

8. John Nash

Nash and his beautiful mind wrote a mere 27-page PhD thesis titled “Non-Cooperative Games” in 1950 which led to him being awarded a Nobel Prize in Economics in 1994.

9. de Broglie

de Broglie wrote a PhD thesis titled “On the Theory of Quanta” in 1924 which became one of the core ideas of quantum mechanics. He was awarded a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1929.

10. Richard Feynman

Feynman wrote a PhD thesis titled “The Principle of Least Action in Quantum Mechanics” in 1942 which introduced the now-famous Feynman diagrams.

11. Max Weber

Weber’s PhD thesis titled “The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism” was completed in 1905. Weber is known as one of the founders of sociology.

12. Ivan Sutherland

Sutherland completed a PhD thesis in 1963 titled “Sketchpad: A Man-Machine Graphical Communication System” and created Sketchpad, which with the first GUI (graphical user interface) program.

13. Hans Rutger Bosker

Booker won the 2014 AVT/Anéla Dissertation Prize for the PhD thesis titled “The Processing and Evaluation of Fluency in Native and Non-Native Speech” completed at Utrecht University.

14. Michael P. Mendenhall

Mendenhall won the 2015 Dissertation Award in Nuclear Physics for the PhD thesis titled “Measurement of the Neutron Beta Decay Asymmetry Using Ultracold Neutrons” written at California Institute of Technology.

15. John Criswell

Criswell won the 2014 Doctoral Dissertation Award for the PhD thesis titled “Secure Virtual Architecture: Security for Commodity Software Systems” written at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

16. Shayan O. Gharan

Gharan won the Doctoral Dissertation Award 2013 for the PhD thesis titled “New Rounding Techniques for the Design and Analysis of Approximation Algorithms” written at Stanford University.

17. Eric A. Vandre

Vandre’s PhD thesis titled “Onset of Dynamics Wetting Failure: The Mechanics of High-speed Fluid Displacement” written at the University of Minnesota won the 2014 Andreas Acrivos Dissertation Award in Fluid Dynamics.

18. Ezgi Akpinar

Akpinar wrote a PhD thesis at Erasmus University Rotterdam titled “Consumer Information Sharing: Understanding Psychological Drivers of Social Transmission” which won the McKinsey Marketing Dissertation Award 2014.

19. Keith N. Snavely

Snavely’s PhD thesis titled “Scene Reconstruction and Visualization from Internet Photo Collections” written at the University of Washington won the 2009 Doctoral Dissertation Award.

20. Susannah Taylor

Taylor wrote a PhD thesis at the University of Ottawa titled “Effacing and Obscuring Autonomy: the Effects of Structural Violence on the Transition to Adulthood of Street Involved Youth” which won the 2018 Joseph De Koninck Prize.

21. Carl Friedrich Gauss

Gauss wrote a PhD thesis titled “ A new proof of the theorem that every integral rational algebraic function of one variable can be resolved into real factors of the first or second degree ” in 1799 and is sometimes called the Prince of Mathematicians.

22. Arthur Schopenhauer

Schopenhauer wrote a PhD thesis titled “ On the Fourfold Root of the Principle of Sufficient Reason ” in 1813 which influenced many other philosophers since.

23. Ludwig Büchner

Büchner’s 1848 PhD thesis was titled “ Contributions to the Hallerian Theory of an Excitomotor Nervous System ” and proved that irritability causes muscle contractions rather than consciousness.

24. Johannes Diderik van der Waals

in 1873 Diderik van der Waals completed a PhD thesis titled “ On the continuity of the gas and liquid state ” which gave a semi-quantitative description of the phenomena of condensation and critical temperatures.

25. Hans Vaihinger

in 1877 Vaihinger completed a PhD thesis titled “The Philosophy of ‘As If'” which explained his philosophy, based on his study of Immanuel Kant and Friedrich Nietzsche, that while sensations and feelings are real, the rest of human knowledge and logic consists of “fictions” that can only be justified pragmatically.

26. Svante Arrhenius

Arrhenius’ 1884 PhD thesis titled “Investigations on the Galvanic Conductivity of Electrolytes” which was initially not well received by his professors, but eventually earned him the 1903 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

27. Émile Durkheim

Durkheim’s PhD thesis titled “The Division of Labour in Society” was completed in 1886 and is a fundamental statement of the nature of human society and its development.

28. Poul Heegaard

Heegaard’s 1898 PhD thesis titled “Preliminary Studies Towards the Topological Theory of Connectivity of Algebraic Surfaces” that introduced ‘Heegaard decompositions’ and the associated ‘Heegaard diagrams’ that are still relevant today.

29. Louis Bachelier

Bachelier completed a PhD thesis titled “The Theory of Speculation” in 1900 which modeled the stochastic process now called Brownian motion.

30. Henri Lebesgue

Lebesgue’s 1902 PhD thesis titled “Integral, Length, Area” made his theory of integration famous.

31. John Augustine Ryan

Ryan was a Catholic priest who wrote a PhD thesis titled “A Living Wage” in 1906 which argued for a minimum wage.

32. Lev Vygotsky

Vygotsky’s PhD thesis titled “The Psychology of Art” was completed in 1925 but not published until the 1960s.

33. Ludwig Wittgenstein

Wittgenstein’s 78-page PhD thesis titled “Logical-Philosophical Treatise” was completed in 1921 and published as a book, which was his only published work.

34. Brian May

Queen guitarist Brian May finished his PhD thesis titled “A Survey of Radial Velocities in the Zodiacal Dust Cloud” in 2008. He started his research in 1970 but took a long break to tour with the band and enjoy being famous.

35. Peter Higgs

Higgs’ PhD thesis was titled “Some problems in the theory of molecular vibrations” and he became famous in 2013 for his discovery of the Higgs Boson (the God particle) and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics.

36. Jim Al-Khalili

Al-Khalili’s PhD thesis was about “Immediate energy deuteron elastic scattering from nuclei in a three-body model” and he went on to present science topics on radio and television.

37. Rosalind Franklin

Franklin’s PhD thesis studied the molecular structure of coal and other organic materials , but she is best known for creating the X-ray diffraction images of DNA that led to the discovery of its double-helical structure.

38. Jocelyn Bell Burnell

While researching and writing her PhD thesis, Burnell discovered radio pulsars . These pulsars were famously visualized on the cover of Joy Division’s album Unknown Pleasures.

39. Kurt Gödel

Gödel first presented his PhD thesis “On Formally Undecidable Propositions of ‘Principia Mathematica’ and Related Systems” in 1929 and it was published as an article in 1930. The thesis presented a theorem of the first-order predicate calculus.

40. Jacques Lacan

Lacan’s PhD thesis “On Paranoiac Psychosis in its Relations to the Personality” completed in 1932 presented the post-structuralist theory rejected the belief that reality can be captured in language, which made Lacan a specialist in paranoia.

41. Edward Franklin Frazier

Frazier’s 1932 PhD thesis “The Negro Family in Chicago” analyzed the cultural and historical forces that influenced the development of the African-American family from the time of slavery. It was later published as a book that was awarded the 1940 Anisfield-Wolf Book Award for the most significant work in the field of race relations.

42. Lars Onsager

Onsager completed his PhD thesis “Solutions of the Mathieu equation of period 4 pi and certain related functions” in 1935 but was not granted a PhD. He went on to work as a theoretician in the physical sciences and won the 1968 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

43. Alan Turing

Turing’s 1938 PhD thesis “On Computable Numbers, With An Application to the Entscheidungsproblem” suggested a theoretical machine that became the basis of modern computing.

44. Paul Samuelson

Samuelson became known as the Father of Modern Economics after his 1941 PhD thesis “The Observational Significance of Economic Theory: A Study in the Foundations of Analytical Economics” was published. The thesis provided the framework of “Foundations of Economic Analysis,” the best-selling economics textbook of all time.

45. Claude Lévi-Strauss

Lévi-Strauss’ PhD thesis was the foundation of the 1948 book “The Elementary Structures of Kinship” which is widely regarded as one of the most important anthropological works on kinship.

46. Kenneth Arrow

Arrow’s 1951 PhD thesis “Social Choice and Individual Values” led to “Arrow’s Impossibility Theorem” for which he and John Hicks were awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics.

47. Noam Chomsky

Chomsky completed his PhD thesis “Transformational Analysis” in 1955 and is now known as the “father of modern linguistics.” Today he remains a major figure of analytic philosophy.

48. Hugh Everett III

Everett completed his PhD thesis “Theory of the Universal Wave Function” in 1957 and was ridiculed by his peers. It was not published until 1973 as part of an anthology about the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics. It was only then that Everett gained some respect for his contributions to mathematics and quantum theory.

49. Stephen Jay Gould

Gould completed his PhD thesis titled “Pleistocene and Recent History of the Subgenus Poecilozonites In Bermuda” in 1967 which led to his theory of punctuated equilibrium.

50. Robert Allen “Laud” Humphreys

Humphreys completed his controversial PhD thesis titled “Tearoom Trade” in 1968. He studied anonymous male-male sexual encounters in public toilets and confirmed that over 50% of the men were heterosexual.

51. Kate Millett

Millett’s PhD thesis “Sexual Politics” was published as a book in 1970 and became a cornerstone of radical feminism.

52. Michael Spence

Spence’s PhD thesis “Market Signalling” in 1972 led to him being awarded the 2001 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences.

53. Harry Binswanger

Binswanger’s PhD thesis “The Biological Basis of Teleological Concepts” was completed in 1973 presented a new theory of the goal-directedness of living action.

54. Camille Paglia

Paglia’s 1974 PhD thesis “Sexual Personae: The Androgyne in Literature and Art” was the basis of her first book, which became a best-seller.

55. Edwin Earl Catmull

Catmull’s 1975 PhD thesis titled “A Subdivision Algorithm for Computer Display of Curved Surfaces” made four key computer graphics discoveries: Z-buffering, texture mapping, subdivision surface, and the fast rendering of bicubic patches.

56. Paul Milgrom

Milgrom completed his PhD thesis titled “The Structure of Information in Competitive Bidding” in 1979. He is an expert in game theory and pricing strategies.

57. Robert “Bob” Anton Wilson

Wilson earned a PhD in 1979 with his thesis “Prometheus Rising” from the unaccredited and now closed Paideia University in California. However, Prometheus Rising was published in 1983.

58. Irene Heim

Heim produced her PhD thesis titled “The semantics of definite and indefinite noun phrases” in 1982 and is now a linguist and specialist in linguistics.

59. Daniel Jonah Goldhagen

Goldhagen’s PhD thesis titled “The Nazi executioners: A study of their behavior and the causation of genocide” was completed in 1992 and was the basis of his book “Hitler’s Willing Executioners.”

60. Rebecca Mercuri

Mercuri’s PhD thesis titled “Electronic Vote Tabulation: Checks and Balances” was completed in 2001 and is of particular interest during voting years.

Sources: https://www.document-centre.co.uk/marie-curie-her-world-changing-phd-thesis/ https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/examples/ http://www.mrgeek.me/lists/12-most-famous-phd-theses-in-history/ http://dissertation.com/top_dissertations.php https://blogs.bl.uk/science/2016/12/9-famous-scientists-and-their-phd-theses.html

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20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024

Key Takeaways

• An online doctoral degree program in English offers a great opportunity to gain valuable skills in communication, critical analysis, collaboration, and independent research, qualifying graduates for top-level career positions.
• Professionals hoping for quick career advancement should take advantage of online accelerated doctoral programs in English.
• Students applying to online universities offering the shortest doctoral program online should make sure that the school holds regional accreditation to verify their credibility.

Top 10 Accelerated Online PhD English Doctorates

University of washington, university of wisconsin–madison, university of maryland, college park, arizona state university, texas a&m university, university of houston, university of south florida, texas tech university, university of alabama at birmingham, old dominion university.

• Liberty University 99%
• Old Dominion University 95%
• Texas Woman's University 94%
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania 92%
• Arizona State University 90%
• University of Alabama at Birmingham 87%
• Murray State University 84%
• California Baptist University 80%
• Texas Tech University 67%
• University of Houston 66%
• University of South Florida 22 to 1
• University of Washington 21 to 1
• University of Houston 21 to 1
• Texas Tech University 21 to 1
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania 21 to 1
• Regent University 21 to 1
• Arizona State University 19 to 1
• Texas A&M University 18 to 1
• University of Wisconsin–Madison 18 to 1
• Liberty University 18 to 1
• California Baptist University $38,058
• Liberty University $22,511
• Regent University $19,680
• University of Washington $11,189
• Northcentral University $11,064
• Arizona State University $10,978
• University of Maryland, College Park $9,695
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• University of Washington $17,004
• Northcentral University $16,794
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Northcentral University

Texas woman's university, california baptist university, regent university, murray state university, indiana university of pennsylvania, indiana university, liberty university.

• Regent University 32%
• University of South Florida 44%
• University of Maryland, College Park 45%
• University of Washington 48%
• University of Wisconsin–Madison 49%
• Texas A&M University 63%
• Northcentral University 1 to 1
• Texas Woman's University 16 to 1
• Old Dominion University 16 to 1
• Murray State University 16 to 1
• University of Alabama at Birmingham 18 to 1
• California Baptist University 18 to 1
• University of Maryland, College Park 18 to 1
• University of South Florida $4,559
• Texas Woman's University $5,616
• Old Dominion University $7,239
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• Murray State University $8,196
• University of Houston $8,685
• Texas A&M University $8,815
• Texas Woman's University $5,112
• Texas A&M University $6,885
• Texas Tech University $6,956
• Liberty University $7,893
• University of South Florida $8,350
• University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,424
• University of Houston $8,713

Earning a terminal degree in the English field is a lengthy and tedious process that usually takes five years for doctoral students to complete. Plus the competition is extremely high—both in gaining admission into a reputable doctoral degree in English program, and then landing a decent job after graduation.

Students who are thinking of completing the fastest doctorate degree programs in English should have a sincere passion for the discipline, and not just a mere desire to become a researcher or English professor because the level of effort to complete one of these online doctoral degree programs can be intense.

Featured Programs

Fastest online accelerated doctoral programs in english.

We rounded up 20 of the fastest English doctoral programs delivered in online, on-campus, and hybrid formats.

• #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
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Tuition + fees

Student body

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Washington

University of Washington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Earth Sciences
• Computer Science
• Social Work
• Anthropology
• Criminal Justice
• Engineering

Most Influential Alumni

• George Stigler
• Frank Herbert
• Jerry Pournelle
• Robert Mundell
• Michael Hardt
• Harold Hotelling
• Minoru Yamasaki
• Lyle Campbell
• Dave Cutler
• Steven Holl

The University of Washington offers a MA/Ph.D. in English Language and Literature . You can take advantage of the close and hands-on guidance from professors and advisors.

• Required Credits: 65
• Completion Time: 2 years (coursework), 2 years (dissertation)
• Format: On Campus

What we love about the University of Washington

The University of Washington is the 10 th best global university and is home to a world-class medical center.

The University of Washington is great for students who:

Prefer to study in a big city and be part of a diverse student body. It’s also perfect for students looking for access to on- and off-campus parties.

The University of Washington might not be a good fit for students who:

Cannot thrive in a large university with a huge population.

University Fast Facts

• Location: Seattle, WA
• Institution Type: Public
• Admission Rate: 48%
• Graduation Rate: 83%
• Online Student Enrollment: 11,000
• Accreditation: The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• #17 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #25 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
• #15 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Wisconsin 2024
• #1 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
• #2 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
• #5 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Wisconsin

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Wisconsin–Madison

University of Wisconsin–Madison’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Mathematics
• Frank Lloyd Wright
• Carl Rogers
• Edward Witten
• John Bardeen
• Charles Lindbergh
• Abraham Maslow
• Joshua Lederberg
• Warren Weaver
• C. Wright Mills
• Jayaprakash Narayan

Enroll in an online Ph.D. in English at the University of Wisonsin-Madison. You should have a bachelor’s or master’s in English or a related subject in order to qualify for admission.

• Program Duration: As few as 4 years
• Financial Aid Options: Scholarships
• Required Credits: 51 (Composition and Rhetoric), 63 (English Language and Linguistics), and 51 (Literary Studies).
• Completion Time: 4-6 years, depending on the concentration

What we love about the University of Wisconsin Madison

Known for it excellent online PhD programs, the University of Wisconsin has a research budget of over $1 billion for its highly ranked programs, along with competitive sports teams and a friendly and down-to-earth Midwestern attitude.

The University of Wisconsin Madison is great for students who:

Want to study on a big campus filled with diverse students and lots of opportunities to allow them to broaden their horizons.

The University of Wisconsin Madison might not be a good fit for students who:

Prefer studying in a smaller and tightly knit school.

• Location: Tempe, AZ
• Admission Rate: 49%
• Graduation Rate: 88%
• Online Student Enrollment: 50,633
• Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Maryland 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Maryland 2024
• #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools in Maryland 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in Maryland 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Maryland 2024
• #8 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #24 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Maryland
• #8 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
• #9 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Maryland, College Park

University of Maryland, College Park’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Political Science
• George Dantzig
• James Clapper
• Robin Hahnel
• Michael D. Griffin
• Frank J. Tipler
• Charles Fefferman
• Jean E. Sammet
• Connie Chung
• Philip J. Davis
• James A. Yorke
• David Bentley Hart

The University of Maryland, College Park offers an online Ph.D. in English . Students can be gain expertise in culture, English studies, and literacy.

• Required Credits: 36
• Completion Time: 5 years (including a dissertation)

What we love About the University of Maryland

The school features Living-Learning Programs where students who share common academic interests are grouped in classes and campus residence halls.

The University of Maryland is great for students who:

Are fun-loving, outgoing, and those who enjoy getting challenged in a classroom setting. The school is also perfect for those who have a wide range of interests since there are so many clubs on campus ranging from singing to sports to game playing, to broadcasting, and even to community service.

The University of Maryland might not be a good fit for students who:

Are not open about getting exposed to many different cultures and people. This is also not ideal for those who are not comfortable studying at a large university.

• Location: College Park, MD
• Admission Rate: 45%
• Graduation Rate: 86%
• Online Student Enrollment: 37,981
• Accreditation : The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• #22 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024
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• #1 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
• #1 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
• #1 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
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Career Outlook for English degree at Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Jimmy Kimmel
• Michael I. Jordan
• Bernie Grundman
• David Spade
• Temple Grandin
• Robert O. Pihl
• Barry Bonds
• Larry Schweikart
• Linda Ronstadt
• Matthew Desmond
• Reggie Jackson
• Kim Komando

Advance your career in the field of academia by earning an advanced degree in Arizona State University’s online Ph.D. in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics . There are many learning and research opportunities available.

• Required Credits: 84
• Completion Time: 4-5 years
• Format: Online

What we love about Arizona State University

Arizona State University is one of the leading universities across the US for outstanding academics. It offers dual degree and double major options, too so students can customize what they want to learn.

Arizona State University is great for students who:

Want a large university feel with small classes. With this kind of large community, students can easily find a community by getting involved.

Arizona State University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are looking for less expensive universities. However, ASU has tons of great scholarship opportunities.

• Admission Rate: 89.8%
• Graduation Rate: 66.3%
• Online Student Enrollment: 62,000
• #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #13 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #24 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #1 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #1 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
• #8 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #9 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #11 Best RN to BSN Online
• #13 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #14 Best Online Master's in Management

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Frank Malina
• Gilbert Shelton
• Henry Cisneros
• Richard Steadman
• Kenneth Womack
• Elaine Ingham
• Forrest Mims
• Adrian Smith
• H. W. Brands
• Lihong V. Wang

You will receive funding for travel and research as well as a plethora support through tuition waivers and other learning opportunities when you choose to study an online PhD in English at Texas A&M University.

• Required Credits: 96
• Completion Time: 3-4 years

What we love about Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University is one of the only 62 members of the renowned Association of American Universities (AAU)—an elite organization encompassing leading private and public universities in the United States and Canada.

Texas A&M University is great for students who:

Love challenging but fun classes, and those who are willing to commit time to their students, and love the close family feeling of the school.

Texas A&M University might not be a good fit for students who:

Cannot manage their time efficiently, and those who are not comfortable studying in big universities.

• Location: College Station, TX
• Admission Rate: 63%
• Graduation Rate: 81%
• Online Student Enrollment: 57,871
• Accreditation : Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• #4 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
• #4 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #2 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
• #3 Best Online Master’s in Education
• #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #7 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #7 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
• #7 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #8 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #9 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #15 Best Online Master's in Management
• #19 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #20 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Houston

University of Houston’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Hakeem Olajuwon
• Daniel P. Friedman
• Elizabeth Warren
• Samer Hattar
• Brené Brown
• Donald Barthelme
• Clyde Drexler
• Philip D. Zelikow
• Savas Dimopoulos

The state of Texas is in need of more educational experts and professionals. Fit right into the qualifications that employers have set for advanced positions in education and English when you enroll in the University of Houston’s online Ph.D. in Higher Education .

• Required Credits: 51
• Completion Time: 2 years

What we love about the University of Houston

What makes the University of Houston loved is its outstanding education, unlimited research opportunities, unbeatable location, and promising future.

The University of Houston is great for students who:

Want to experience many cultures in one. The University of Houston is one of the most culturally diverse college in the US.

The University of Houston might not be a good fit for students who:

Do not religiously study and prefer to cram the night before the exam. Exams are UH are cumulative.

• Location: Houston, TX
• Admission Rate: 66%
• Graduation Rate: 66%
• Online Student Enrollment: 47,000
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• #5 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
• #5 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
• #5 Best Research Universities in Florida 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Online Master's of Music Education Programs
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Cybersecurity
• #4 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
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• #5 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
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• #8 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #12 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
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Career Outlook for English degree at University of South Florida

University of South Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Joe Barresi
• Shlomo Sawilowsky
• Tony La Russa
• Saraju Mohanty
• Joanna Fowler
• J. Budziszewski
• Eric M. Bost
• Susan Cutter
• David A. Wolfe
• Randy Borum

The University of South Florida offers an online Ph.D. in English that specializes in Literature or Rhetoric and Composition. After graduation, you can be a professor, researcher, or scholar.

• Required Credits: 42

What we love About the University of South Florida

USF is globally recognized as a leader in academic excellence, both online and on-campus.

The University of South Florida is great for students who:

Love to have fun, meet new people, and get a good amount of learning.

The University of South Florida might not be a good fit for students who:

Can neither keep their tasks properly balanced nor practice time management.

• Location: Tampa, FL
• Admission Rate: 44%
• Graduation Rate: 74%
• Online Student Enrollment: 50,000
• Accreditation: The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

• #7 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's in English
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Certificate in Liberal Arts and Humanities Ranked for Students
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
• #2 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
• #4 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #5 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
• #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #8 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
• #8 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #9 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #10 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #11 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
• #12 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #14 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #14 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #14 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #15 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #15 Best Online Master’s in Education
• #16 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #20 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #20 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #23 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #23 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• John Hinckley Jr.
• Arati Prabhakar
• James T. Richardson
• Mica Endsley
• Carolyn Eisele
• Paul E. Gray
• Guy McPherson
• John Denver
• Manuel H. Johnson
• M. David Rudd

Earn the same quality of education with its on-campus curriculum when you enroll at Texas Tech University’s online Ph.D. in Technical Communication . This is offered by the Department of English.

• Required Credits: 60
• Completion Time: 2-3 years

What we love about Texas Tech University

Every year, Texas Tech online students in their doctoral programs attend May Seminar , a two-week intensive workshop that gives doctoral students the chance to collaborate with peers and faculty face-to-face.

Texas Tech University is great for students who:

Enjoys learning with friends, discovering new things they didn’t know they liked or growing more confident in themselves.

Texas Tech University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are looking for cheaper university options. Texas Tech is not as affordable as some other college options, but the amount students are paying is worth more.

• Location: Lubbock, TX
• Admission Rate: 67%
• Graduation Rate: 62%
• Online Student Enrollment: 40,944
• #3 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024
• #3 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Alabama
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
• #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Alabama
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Alabama 2024
• #5 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
• #7 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
• #7 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #7 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #8 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
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• #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
• #15 Best Online MBAs in Finance
• #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #18 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #19 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #4 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Alabama at Birmingham

University of Alabama at Birmingham’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Rebecca Bace
• Ray L. Watts
• Eli Capilouto
• Lawrence J. DeLucas
• Hadiyah-Nicole Green
• Graeme McDowell
• David B. Allison
• Clancy Blair
• Bruce R. Korf
• Selwyn M. Vickers
• Ricardo Azziz
• Jason Aaron

Get ready to study an online Ed.D in Educational Leadership at the University of Alabama at Birmingham if you want to be a forward thinker in the education or research industry.

• Required Credits: 54
• Completion Time: 3 years

What we love about the University of Alabama-Birmingham

The University of Alabama-Birmingham is not just an internationally-recognized research institute but also one of the most well-liked academic medical facilities in the world, thanks to its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to education.

The University of Alabama-Birmingham is great for students who:

are not just interested in medical school but in art school as well. UAB is great for all majors. UAB has so much to offer, and students will love the school’s diversity.

The University of Alabama-Birmingham might not be a good fit for students who:

Are out-of-state enrollees because the school is very expensive, although what you pay is money well spent because of the beautiful campus and top-notch academic excellence.

Location: Birmingham, AL

• Admission Rate: 87%
• Graduation Rate: 63%
• Online Student Enrollment: 22,563
• #8 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
• #2 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
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• #4 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
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• #6 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science
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• #7 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #7 Best Online Master's in English
• #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
• #9 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
• #10 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
• #10 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
• #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
• #13 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #19 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #23 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
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• #25 Best Online Master's in Special Education

Career Outlook for English degree at Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Justin Verlander
• Nancy Lieberman
• Serkan Golge
• Ticha Penicheiro
• Linda B. Hayden
• Richard C. McCarty
• Kent Bazemore
• Bonita V. Saunders
• Sarah McCoy
• Jack T. Kirby
• Philip C. Kendall

Earning an online English Doctoral Program at Old Dominion University, which integrates rhetoric, textual, and writing studies, will prepare students for writing careers in a large number of fields.

• Required Credits: 48

What we love about Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University is a very diverse school. It has tons of school spirit, and there is always something to do that involves everyone. There are also lots of organizations that are great and fun.

Old Dominion University is great for students who:

Want to receive a good education in a comfortable urban atmosphere.

Old Dominion University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are looking for affordable universities. ODU is a bit expensive, and it can even be more costly if you include housing and other fees.

• Location: Norfolk, VA
• Admission Rate: 95%
• Graduation Rate: 52%
• Online Student Enrollment: 18,600
• #2 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
• #7 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
• #9 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #19 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #21 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate in Economics
• #1 Best Online Associate in Philosophy
• #1 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs
• #1 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #1 Best Online Associate in Education
• #1 Best Online Associate in Mathematics
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs
• #2 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
• #2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
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• #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
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• #2 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
• #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #3 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
• #3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
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• #3 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies
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• #7 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
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• #6 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #6 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
• #6 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs

Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Religious Studies
• Communications
• Ravi Zacharias
• Susan Wise Bauer
• Michael R. Licona
• Robert H. Smith
• Michael Tait
• Jerry Falwell Jr.

Become equipped with the knowledge and skills in the field of digital conversations. Study an online Ph.D. in Strategic Communications at Liberty University.

What we love about Liberty University

The campus is extremely large, about 7,000 acres, and is filled with a lot of colleges and majors. Students will not only excel academically but will also learn good time management and real-life knowledge.

Liberty University is great for students who:

Want to get closer to God, and want a big-time university feel with a foundation of Biblical truth.

Liberty University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are not comfortable settling on a huge campus with so many students.

• Location: Lynchburg, VA
• Institution Type: Private
• Admission Rate: 99%
• Graduation Rate: 29%
• Online Student Enrollment: 115,000

Indiana University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• George Lakoff
• Jamal Khashoggi
• David Chalmers
• David Starr Jordan
• Lewis Terman
• Julian Rotter
• Alan Dundes
• Robert Coover
• Jennifer Widom
• Richard C. Atkinson

Be more well-rounded in English and literacy when you enroll in an online Ed.D in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education at Indiana University. This program focuses on how to tackle 21st-century issues that commonly occur in the education sector.

What we love about Indiana University

Indiana University—Bloomington is a very good school in that its academics and value are highly ranked. The school boasts a strong Greek life presence.

Indiana University is great for students who:

Are interested in liberal arts, as well as business majors considering it is an amazing business school.

Indiana University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are not into Greek life since it is very heavy on campus.

• Location: Bloomington, IN
• Admission Rate: 82%
• Graduation Rate: 79%
• Online Student Enrollment: 7,877
• #8 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs
• #9 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Kimberly Young
• Shaun L. Gabbidon
• Glenn D. Walters
• Dana D. Nelson
• Nikodem Popławski
• John Murtha
• Jim Haslett
• John Kopchick
• Agnes Sligh Turnbull
• John Michael Kudrick
• Jack Thomas
• Matthew Knisely

Get an online Doctorate in Media and Communication Studies at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. There will be a combination of theory and practice in this advanced program.

• Format: Hybrid

What we love about the Indiana University of Pennsylvania

IAU is packed with infinite clubs and activities that students can join. There are different kinds of animé clubs, religious groups, residence hall associations, sports teams, and even a video club.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania is great for students who:

Are outgoing and intelligent. Those who love the laid-back life of the country but the same exciting city people will love it here.

The Indiana University of Pennsylvania might not be a good fit for students who:

Are not comfortable going to a big school

• Location: Indiana, PA
• Admission Rate: 92%
• Graduation Rate: 55%
• Online Student Enrollment: 7,333
• Accreditation: The Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Kentucky
• #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kentucky 2024
• #3 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
• #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Kentucky
• #5 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Kentucky 2024
• #6 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2024
• #6 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2024
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• #23 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration

Career Outlook for English degree at Murray State University

Murray State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Jeff Easley
• David L. Armstrong
• Popeye Jones
• Chris Thile
• Terry Yates
• W. Earl Brown
• Kirk Rueter
• Bill Cunningham

Whether you’re a current teacher or are looking to transition to an advanced role in the field of English, it’s a wise investment to enroll in Murray State University’s online Doctor of Arts in English Pedagogy .

• Completion Time: 1-2 years

What we love about Murray State University

Murray State University blends the range of educational opportunities usually found at research institutions with the nurturing student-teacher interactions we normally see at smaller universities.

Murray State University is great for students who:

Want a good college for a low cost and those who take their college experience seriously.

Murray State University might not be a good fit for students who:

Aren’t keen on attending college in a small town.

• Location: Murray, KY
• Admission Rate: 84%
• Graduation Rate: 53%
• Online Student Enrollment: 9,857

• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
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• #2 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
• #2 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
• #3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
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Regent University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Bob McDonnell
• Charles Martin
• Garrard McClendon
• Daniel Kelly
• James F. Linzey
• Wolfgang Vondey
• Antonio Zarro

Some of the areas that you can master in Regent University’s online Ph.D. in Communication are scholarly writing, research, and communication studies.

• Required Credits: 64
• Completion Time: 2-2.5 years
• Format: Online, with 1-year residency

What we love about Regent University

Regent University is a very rigorous but engaging school with very accessible and helpful faculty.

Regent University is great for students who:

Want to get involved. Its School of Undergraduate Studies is always looking for student input. This is also great for anybody who wants to grow in their spiritual work.

Regent University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are looking for cheaper university options. As a private Christian school, the classes are a bit more demanding on the wallet.

• Location: Virginia Beach, VA
• Admission Rate: 32%
• Online Student Enrollment: 4,321
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
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California Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Rick Warren

Study for an online Doctor in Public Administration at California Baptist University. This will be a great asset that can create an impact in communities and non-profits.

• Required Credits: 56

What we love about California Baptist University

The campus at CBU provides students with several ways to worship, including Men’s Ministries, Discipleship Ministries, Women’s Ministries, and both local and global service opportunities.

California Baptist University is great for students who:

Are Christians and want to grow closer to Christ, as well as those who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and classroom setting.

California Baptist University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are looking for Greek life as CBU has none. However, the students are very friendly and the overall feel of the campus is positive, so it’s very easy to make friends.

• Location: Riverside, CA
• Admission Rate: 80%
• Online Student Enrollment: 8,252
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas Woman's University

Texas Woman's University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Huda Salih Mahdi Ammash
• Dana G. Hoyt
• Alma Dawson
• Elma González
• Juan L. Maldonado
• Juliet V. García
• Gretchen Oliver
• Dee Ann Story
• Onye P. Ozuzu

Learn about writing, rhetoric, and literature through Texas Woman’s University’s online Ph.D. in Rhetoric . The coursework is comprised of electives that ensure you have a solid understanding of some other related subjects, as well as a self- designed area of specialty and a core set of rhetoric classes.

• Required Credits: 90
• Format: Online and Hybrid

What we love about Texas Woman’s University

The school is very serious about what it stands for and the education its students will receive. Students will be surrounded by educational stimuli every day. There is no way students will attend TWU without learning something that may change the way they see life forever.

Texas Woman’s University is great for students who:

Are academically competitive. All students at TWU are eager and determined to get good grades and hold high achievements.

Texas Woman’s University might not be a good fit for students who:

Are looking for a ‘party school’. TWU’s definition of fun is helping organizations in need or debating about the hottest topics. However, this also means that attending TWU can feel like “all work and no play”. Students must be careful, otherwise, stress and overwork will get in the way.

• Location: Denton, TX
• Admission Rate: 94%
• Graduation Rate: 70%
• Online Student Enrollment: 16,000
• #19 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
• #16 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Northcentral University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Founded in 1996, Northcentral University is a private online university headquartered in San Diego, California, and is classified among “Doctoral/Professional Universities”. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees, specialist, and doctoral programs in more than 60 degree areas.

Northcentral University offers an online Ph.D.-ED in Education with a concentration in English Language Learning. This 60-credit hour accelerated online doctorate degree contributes to the preparation of students to become research scholars in the field.

• Completion Time: 37 months

What we love about Northcentral University

Northcentral University doesn’t require physical residency for its students. There are also weekly start dates, and all courses are taught one-to-one by an NCU professor holding a doctoral degree.

Northcentral University is great for students who:

Are looking for programs that are offered 100% online. This is also perfect for any prospective self-starter student.

Northcentral University might not be a good fit for students who:

Expect to be spoon-fed considering this is an online school. Students should be able to download their assignments, read the required resources, and research topics on their own.

Career Outlook for Students with English Degree

English language and literature, degree level: doctorate.

• Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
• Avg. Starting Salary*: $54,937
• Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $61,994
• * denotes ‘annually’

Career Salaries

Average career salaries, promising job markets, top industries, considerations for students who want to enroll in accelerated online doctoral programs in english.

The primary goal of enrolling in an accelerated online program, particularly online doctoral programs in English, is to prepare students for the workforce as quickly as possible. As such, the biggest and most salient feature of this type of delivery is the chance for students to finish their studies faster through online courses.

How can an accelerated doctoral degree program in English grad students so much more quickly? The fastest online doctoral programs often have shorter term lengths and may require a heavier course load than traditional doctoral degree programs.

A typical term in an accelerated online program may be as short as 8 weeks. Students are often also expected to take multiple online courses at a time. The heavier course load may make it difficult for some graduate students to continue working full time.

Financing and Scheduling

Not all doctoral programs are as expensive as the others, particularly compared to their traditional counterparts. They are also designed with flexible scheduling options so non-traditional students, especially adult learners with families or full-time jobs, are accommodated. One downside, however, is that accelerated programs often have less financial aid available.

Hybrid Format

Hybrid accelerated doctoral degree programs that have some online components usually require at least two residencies or weekly on-campus instruction for on campus courses. Others with weekly in-person instruction are regional programs for local students who can travel on-campus with minimal issues.

Bottom Line: Because of the heavier course load and in-person commitment required by many doctoral degree programs, many working professionals prefer 100% online doctoral programs to earn their PhD.

Alternate Doctoral Degree Programs Online for English Majors

If you hold an undergraduate degree in English, pursuing online doctoral degree programs in the same discipline is an obvious path. Depending on the types of classes you completed in your master’s degree and your interests, usually within the field of humanities or business administration, you can qualify for other disciplines in the online doctorate degree level, and not just in English.

Generally, there are 6 ideal types of PhD online doctoral degree programs for English majors:

• PhD in Religious Studies
• PhD in Linguistics
• PhD in History
• PhD in Media Studies
• PhD in Political Science

When considering these alternative online accelerated PhD doctoral programs, keep in mind that doctoral students pursuing a new field of study might require you to complete additional courses on top of those you earned with your bachelor’s or master’s degree.

By doing so, you can pursue related or similar fields that utilize your earned expertise as an English major, including fields such as counselor education, higher education leadership, criminal justice, early childhood education, and even public health in private, non-profit, and government agencies.

You might also be interested in an online PhD in education .