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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

The Easiest PhD Majors

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

• Religion/Theology

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

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

The Easiest PhD Programs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capella University

PhD in Psychology – General Psychology

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

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

The University of Florida, Department of Classics

PhD in Classical Studies

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

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

Faulkner University

Doctor of Philosophy in Humanities

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

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

Regent University

PhD in Renewal Theology

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

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

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

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

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

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

The University of Tennessee Knoxville, College of Social Work

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

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

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

New York University, School of Law

Juris Doctor (JD)

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

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

North Carolina State University, College of Design

Doctor of Design (DDes)

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

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

Frontier Nursing University

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

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

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

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

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

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

FAQs about the Easiest PhDs

Which phd is the easiest to get.

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

Which Subject Is Easy for a PhD?

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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

Lisa Marlin

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

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The Easiest PhD Programs to Get into

Should you pursue a masters or a PhD , it will still take several years to complete your degree, even if you are accepted to one of the easiest PhD programs to get into. You could be spending up to seven or eight years of your life pursuing a PhD, only to end up scratching your head thinking about how to transition from academia to industry or how to get a job after grad school . However, if you’re convinced you have the passion, patience, time, and resources to pursue a PhD and see it as a way to advance your career or professional ambitions, then you should read this article to find out more about how to find a postdoc , the easiest PhD programs to get into and how to apply.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

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Article Contents 10 min read

Easiest phd programs to get into, 1. adams state university – doctor of philosophy (phd) in counselor education and supervision (ce&s).

This is an online program offered by Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado. Students must complete 6 credit hours per semester, for up to 3 to 4 years. The entirety of the course is done online, but students are also required to participate in a one-week summer residency every year of their program at the Adams State University campus. This program is easy to get into because you do not need to submit GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores to be considered.

You do need to submit a letter of intent, so you would be better off reading about how to write an effective statement of intent before submitting your application. The length of the letter should be between 3–4 pages and address a series of questions like:

• “Why are you pursuing a doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Adams State University?”
• “What personal and professional dispositions are essential for future counselor educators and supervisors?”
•  “Describe your professional plans with a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, post-graduation.”

Want to learn top strategies you can use when writing your grad school statement of purpose? Watch this video:

You will also be asked to submit reference letters and a CV; all graduate students should know how to write a CV for grad school , as it is a common requirement for entry into graduate programs. Applicants with a master’s degree in counseling who also hold state certification to work as a counselor in their home state are given preference.

Admission Requirements

• A master’s degree from an accredited university or college
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 (must be maintained throughout the four years)
• Minimum two years of professional experience as a counselor post-grad

UTEP offers several doctorate programs in areas such as biosciences, civil engineering, and business administration, but those programs have several high-level admissions requirements like submitting GRE scores and mastery of complicated subjects like statistics and mathematics. However, the PhD in English Rhetoric and Composition only requires either:

• A bachelor’s degree in English or
• A master’s degree in English

Students who apply with only a bachelor’s degree must first complete the Master of English Rhetoric and Composition at UTEP. They need to complete the six-credit course requirement and present a master’s thesis. After completing their master’s, they continue to complete the PhD program requirements.

Successful students are given up to eight years to complete the degree, but they may receive their PhD sooner as long as they satisfy the 45–51 credit hours required to obtain the degree. What makes this degree attractive is not only the academic requirements, but the many career opportunities afforded graduates who can apply their degree to fields as diverse as education, business, and government.

• Official transcripts of all previous work
• Three letters of recommendation either from previous instructors or professional references 
• A description of their educational goals
• A description of their approach to writing and teaching
• Two writing samples: a research paper and a personal writing sample

3. Prescott College – PhD in Sustainability Education

Prescott College is a private university in Prescott, Arizona, that has a near 99% acceptance rate for all programs, including the newly created PhD program in Sustainability Education. This near perfect acceptance rate stands in contrast to much lower medical school acceptance rates , which are often in the single digits. This PhD program is interdisciplinary and blends disciplines like pedagogy, environmental science, and social justice studies.

The other aspects of the program that make it attractive are the fact that there are few admissions requirements. Students do not have to submit any GRE or GMAT scores. Neither do they have to pay any application fees. Successful applicants can choose to take classes part-time, if they have other responsibilities, but the entire class format is online, which is another accommodation to mature or professional students.

Similar graduate sustainability education programs in the US and Canada last for up to 4 years, but Prescott College does not mention how long their program lasts. The small class size and experienced faculty also make this PhD program an option for someone who wants to pursue research in environmental sustainability, with career options ranging from becoming faculty or working as a sustainability officer for businesses and government.

Contact the program director directly to find out more about admission requirements and other information.

4. University of Michigan/Rackham Graduate School – PhD in Anthropology

The Rackham Graduate School at the University of Michigan offers a 7-year PhD in Anthropology that has relaxed admission requirements, like not requiring students to take or submit GRE scores or any other standardized graduate school exams. But the program has other requirements, such as the documentation listed below.

Prospective students do not need a master’s degree to apply, but they must have at least a bachelor’s degree. However, students can complete a master’s while on the PhD track. The PhD program has an acceptance rate of 4.6%, so it is one of the easier PhD programs to get into, given that prospective students do not have to take any standardized tests or have a graduate degree.

• Application form
• Application fee
• Admissions Conduct Code
• Statement of purpose (1000–1500 words)
• Personal statement (500 words maximum)
• Letters of recommendation (3)
• Official transcripts 
• Writing sample (optional, 30-page maximum)

5. The University of Tennessee at Knoxville – PhD in Sociology

UTK offers several PhD level programs, but the PhD in sociology is one of the easiest PhD programs to get into since applicants do not need to take the GRE. All successful students must choose from one of the four core concepts to complete the sociology degree, which are:

• Criminology
• Critical Race and Ethnic Studies
• Environmental Sociology
• Political Economy and Globalization

Students explore each aspect of their chosen subject, which all have their unique credit and non-credit requirements to complete the degree. Along with this first area of study, students must choose a second area of study revolving around social theory or statistics. All students must complete a minimum of 27 credits or 9 courses within each core concept and take another 12 elective credits or 4 courses in one of the other four concentrations, a foreign language course, a graduate certificate in statistics, or a science minor.

If accepted, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 throughout the duration of the program and meet academic benchmarks established by them and the sociology department. The school does not state the length of the program, but all students must pass comprehensive exams in one of the four main concepts, write a dissertation, and present and defend it orally to complete the degree requirements.

• Master’s or JD degree in sociology or a related field
• Overall undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.00 or higher
• Three letters of recommendation
• Writing sample
• Personal statement

6. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – PhD in Urban Education : Adult, Continuing, and Higher Education Leadership (ACHEL)

This PhD program gives students seven years to complete all the degree requirements but does not require that they take the GRE or submit GRE scores no older than five years for admission. Some of the admissions requirements are document-based, meaning students must submit several types of writing to qualify.

All applicants must have at least a 2.75 undergraduate GPA, which is much lower than the typical 3.0 that most PhD programs require, to be considered. They must also have an undergraduate or master’s degree. The written requirements include submitting one of the following, with a maximum word count of 1500 words:

• Master’s thesis
• Undergraduate senior thesis
• Technical report
• Publication
• Written description of a project
• Action research project
• Writing sample answering the question, “How would you conceptualize and analyze issues in urban education?”

Students must also submit a Reasons Statement, in which you are encouraged to talk about the entirety of your background, such as why you are pursuing a PhD, your interests and background in the field, skills and training, and academic honors or awards.

Aside from the above written samples, prospective students must also submit a graduate CV and three letters of recommendation. There are no specific requirements for who must write the letters, but the letter writers are encouraged to write about the candidate’s past experiences and how they connect to the school’s PhD program.

• Undergraduate or master’s degree
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75
• 1500-word writing sample
• Reasons Statement
• 3 letters of recommendation

There are as many persuasive reasons to pursue a PhD as there are not to pursue one. If you want to know how to find a PhD topic or program, this article has outlined a few examples of some of the “easiest” PhD programs to get into. But completing a PhD is another matter. There are no “easy” PhD programs to complete since they all take years of hard work and dedication. Ultimately, the easiest program for you will be one you are completely immersed in and thoroughly enjoy; focusing on why the program is a great fit is a winning strategy when preparing your application materials.

One reality you have to confront is that the attrition rate for most PhDs is somewhere between 36–51% across a variety of fields and disciplines ranging from the arts and humanities to engineering and life sciences. The other thing you should know – and something all PhD admission consultants should tell you – is that pursuing a PhD is an all-encompassing commitment that will take over your life. As discussed above, program lengths are measured in years (minimum of five) and there are few guarantees that, if you do finish, you will be able to reap the rewards, at least in the short term.

Another growing demographic comprises people who complete all the requirements to obtain a PhD (coursework, credits) but fail on the most crucial element: writing and defending a dissertation. These students are known as “all but dissertation” and are forced to explain to prospective employers why they failed.

As if actually completing the degree wasn’t hard enough. the labor market is not always welcoming to PhDs either. High-level positions in government and academia often filled by PhDs are not plentiful, and other industries will require skill sets that PhD graduates typically do not have, such as managerial or organizational knowhow.

Whether you benefit from obtaining a PhD in the end depends on many factors, like your field and whether you’re an expert in an in-demand profession (computer science, bioengineering, engineering). While many graduate students enter doctorate programs to secure financial stability, other students are interested purely in acquiring knowledge and researching a topic or subject that they are passionate about. For these students, getting a PhD and all the attendant aspects (learning, investigating, writing) have an inherent value, so the less-than-stellar employment prospects or salary gains are not a priority. That’s not to suggest they are not mindful of the real-world costs of a getting a doctorate; rather, they are willing to put in the effort to fund their studies by applying for grants, working as part-time faculty or securing public or private loans, and accepting the bare-bones lifestyle of many graduate students.

Reasons to Get a PhD

More Employment Opportunities

PhDs do make more money than other degree types, like masters, but not by a lot. Some studies say PhDs earn up to $13,000 more than lower degree-holders, but it is more complicated than that. Those earnings only start to show after decades. Master’s graduates have a head-start on PhDs and enter the workforce much earlier than PhD students, so they start saving and earning more.

PhDs may have more employment opportunities open to them, in either academia or the private sector, but starting salaries for PhDs top out at $50,000. Moreover, by the time PhD graduates start looking for jobs, master’s graduates have already ascended to senior or executive positions earning six figures and more. Positions that offer starting six-figure salaries also do not often require candidates to have PhDs, giving master’s graduates yet another advantage.

Life-Long Research and Learning Opportunities

Money isn’t everything. Many PhD students are not motivated by financial gain or opportunity but are simply passionate about exploring and investigating a particular field for a lifetime. Funding this research is always a concern, but one component of becoming a PhD is learning how to write grant applications or fundraise in other ways that are essential to keeping research projects going.

Learning Valuable Skills

Skills like grant writing, fundraising, and networking are good to have if you want to know how to find a job in academia , and there are private sector companies that value them as well, but PhDs should also try to incorporate other skill sets into their toolkit. If they are interested, they can pursue dual-degree programs that pair a PhD with another degree type like an MBA or a medical degree, such as an MD-PhD program . They can also seek out professional development courses that prepare them for entering the workforce once they complete their degree, if they decide to go into the private sector.

Becoming an Expert

Some of the allure of a PhD is the authority it gives in a specific topic or subject, which means you are someone who is regularly sought out by various sectors and industries for expert advice. Being the foremost expert in a particular field can unlock many opportunities, but your specialty determines how much you can earn or what those opportunities are.

You can find that your expertise suddenly falls out of favor, like all the hundreds of Soviet physicists who had nothing to do once the USSR defunded the space program. But the opposite can also happen. Think of all the previously anonymous MDs and PhDs who became household names during the COVID-19 pandemic because they were experts in virology, immunology, or epidemiology.

The easiest PhD programs to get into are not the easiest ones to complete. Ultimately, if you are thinking about entering a PhD program, you need to weigh the benefits (potentially higher earnings, more employment opportunities, expert-level education) of pursuing the degree and the disadvantages (significant investment of time and money, uncertain job market, lost earnings). Go into the project with eyes open and a topic you want to study for many years, and your PhD experience will be much easier.

There is no easy answer. If you are someone who wants to pursue a particular line of investigation that requires years of observation and experimentation, then getting a PhD may seem like a natural path. But if you are more concerned about raising your earning potential or seeking more senior positions, in general, a master’s degree checks all those boxes without having to invest so much time and money. 

Any PhD program that does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores (GRE or GMAT) or have a master’s degree is generally easier to get into than other programs, but these programs have their own requirements, which could involve anything from writing personal statements and letters of intent to one-on-one interviews. 

All PhD programs are different, and they can variously require applicants to have a master’s degree, GRE or GMT scores above 300, and demonstrated aptitude in various fields, especially if you are pursuing a PhD in the sciences or engineering. There are also written requirements like submitting letter of intent, research resume , and a record of other notable academic or non-academic achievements. 

The answer is yes and no. Over many years, your education and training will pay off as you slowly start to pull away from other degree types in terms of salary. But it will take many years. During this time, other degree holders can attain higher positions and salaries that are comparable to yours, thereby negating any future gains. 

The duration of every PhD program is different, but the minimum length of most PhD programs is six years. Some schools have degree time limits – six or seven years, in some cases – meaning you must complete the program and present your dissertation by the time limit or be ejected. Master’s degrees, in comparison, usually take only about two years to complete. 

If you are wondering whether you need a master’s or PhD to apply to medical school s, the answer is no. However, if you are applying as a non-traditional medical school applicant who has a master’s or doctorate in another field, it can help improve your medical school application. 

The assumption is that PhD graduates generally do very well in the labor market. They do have low unemployment rates when compared to other degree holders. But one obstacle PhD graduates run into is having “surplus schooling”; in other words, they are over-qualified for a majority of positions. Only 2% of positions in the labor market require a PhD, which is one thing to remember if you are thinking about pursuing a doctorate. 

The cost of a five-year degree ranges between $150,000 and $200,000, but there are some PhD programs that provide full funding as well as a stipend. PhD students also work as teaching assistants for up to two years and can apply for grants or secure other funding sources like federal aid loans. 

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What is a good gpa in college, highest paying masters degrees for 2024, best accelerated nursing & bsn programs online, 6 month certificate programs that pay well 2024.

Explore a range of online doctoral programs, including Ph.D. degrees, that offer accelerated paths, reduced residency requirements, and flexible online learning options.

Find Your School in 5 Minutes or Less

Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Doctorate Degree vs PhD

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

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

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

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

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

1 Year Ph.D. Programs Online

Chatham university.

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

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

Breyer State Theology University

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

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

American International Theism University

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

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

Online Doctorate Programs That Might Interest You

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

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

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

Frontier Nursing University

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

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

Maryville University

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

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

24 Month Doctorate Programs

University of north carolina – chapel hill.

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

Grand Canyon University

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

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

Liberty University

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

University of West Georgia

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

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

Shortest Ph.D. Programs Online and On-campus

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

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

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

Easiest Ph.D. Programs Online & On-Campus

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

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

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

Easiest Online Ph.D. Programs & Online Doctoral Programs

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

Easiest Ph.D. to Get (Traditional)

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

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

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

Free Ph.D. Programs Online (Fully Funded)

According to Best-Universities.net .

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

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

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

Guide to online doctorate degrees.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cost of an Online Doctoral Degree Program

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

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

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

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

Choosing an Online Doctoral Degree Program

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

How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tied institutions are listed alphabetically.

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

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

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

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

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10 Easiest Ph.D. Degrees

Doug Wintemute

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated September 20, 2023

Margaret Weinhold

Contributing Editor

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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A doctorate can lead to careers in academia and research and development. Professionals with these degrees can take on leadership roles in nearly every industry.

But a Ph.D. is not for everyone. They can be extremely challenging, intensive, and time-consuming.

Not all Ph.D. programs are the same, however. On this page, we explore some of the easiest Ph.D. programs. We look at what makes these disciplines easier than others, and what opportunities they have to offer students.

Best Ph.D. Programs

Ph.d. vs. professional doctorate.

A Ph.D. and a professional doctorate are both terminal degrees, but they have some key differences. A Ph.D. features substantial research requirements, whereas a professional doctorate incorporates advanced practical training.

When it comes to easy doctoral degrees, Ph.D. programs typically run longer and require more intensive study. The theoretical focus of a Ph.D. can also prove more challenging than a practical doctorate.

What Makes a Ph.D. Easy?

A Ph.D. can be difficult for many reasons. These programs typically take 5-7 years to complete and feature a large amount of research. You may have to develop an original dissertation and then defend it at the end of the program.

The process can be intense and isolating. And there are disciplines that tackle challenging material, such as STEM, medicine, and law fields. These programs tend to feature more technically difficult studies, though that really depends on your abilities as a student.

For many, an easier program features more accessible material, shorter completion times, or less intensive research requirements.

Here, we highlight some of the easiest Ph.D. programs, including the easiest Ph.D. disciplines, the easiest online Ph.D. programs, and the easiest Ph.D. without dissertations.

1. Ph.D. in Humanities

A Ph.D. in humanities gives you a very broad area of study to explore. The discipline covers much of the human world, including investigations of cultures and societies throughout the globe and time. Many of these programs also encourage interdisciplinary studies, which makes the field even more open-ended.

This flexibility helps make humanities one of the easiest Ph.D. programs. You may even have the ability to take a comprehensive exam and complete a smaller research project instead of completing a dissertation, which could make things easier.

2. Ph.D. in Education

A Ph.D. in education examines topics like educational leadership, policy, and curriculum and instruction. While most of these programs require a dissertation, they can be completed relatively quickly compared to many other Ph.D. programs.

Unlike humanities above, an education Ph.D. tends to be more limited in scope. This can make it less daunting for some. Education can be a practical discipline as well, which allows you to put theory into action.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Education

3. ph.d. in theology.

A Ph.D. in theology prepares you for careers in religious leadership, teaching, and analysis. You use critical thinking skills to advance scholarship in the field. You may also engage with other disciplines, which provides educational freedom.

Many Ph.D. programs in theology feature vocational components. This, along with the subjective nature of the discipline, can make it easier for you to pass your program, but it may also be harder to excel.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Theology

4. ph.d. in business administration.

In a Ph.D. in business administration , you can follow many different paths. You may specialize in disciplines like accounting, management, or finance. You may investigate theories, evaluate current systems, or look for gaps in existing business studies.

While not as practical as a doctorate in business administration (DBA), a Ph.D. in business can still prove more applicable and testable than many other disciplines. For some students, this makes the field more approachable.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Business Administration

5. ph.d. in psychology.

In a psychology Ph.D. program, you study the human mind and behavior. The psychology discipline offers many specialization opportunities, including health, organizational, and developmental psychology. Graduates from these programs can take on teacher roles or enter the psychology profession directly.

While Ph.D. programs in this field can be research-heavy, certain pathways offer more practical learning opportunities, such as the clinical psychology branch. You can also get the opportunity to run experiments, which can break up tedious research.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Psychology

6. ph.d. in literature.

A Ph.D. in English or literature allows you to advance your knowledge of a specific branch of literary scholarship. These programs often encourage you to take interdisciplinary approaches to develop new and engaging ideas. You work with theory, critical analysis, and history to approach topics from new angles and add to the discourse.

Most Ph.D. programs in literature require a dissertation, but the flexibility of topics can be freeing. Similar to many humanities fields, you may find literature an easier discipline to pass but difficult to master.

7. Ph.D. in Criminal Justice

A Ph.D. in criminal justice takes on all sectors of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, policy, and human services. You'll investigate leading theories, contemporary issues, and criminal behavior. Since this field has such a practical foundation, you can apply your learning to real-world situations and solutions.

The discipline offers many specialization opportunities, such as justice administration, public policy, and emergency management. Several schools offer a Ph.D. in criminal justice that you can complete in less than four years.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Criminal Justice

8. ph.d. in public policy.

In a Ph.D. in public policy program, you study the development, implementation, and consequences of public policies. You research policy histories and systems and evaluate their effectiveness.

While these programs can prove rigorous, the real-world applications of the discipline may help you latch on to the studies more easily. After graduation from this program, you can take on leadership positions in governments and organizations.

9. Ph.D. in History

History offers you an array of study opportunities, including social, cultural, or intellectual history. You might look at a specific time or place. You may aim to work in academia, public institutions, or other investigative fields.

History Ph.D. programs often require intensive research. You must find a new way of looking at a historical topic, possibly through interdisciplinary approaches or an unexplored subfield.

10. Ph.D. in Sociology

A Ph.D. in sociology explores the relationships between humans and society. You research policies, inequalities, family, and education. You conduct sociological studies to better understand social dynamics and demographics. You may also use your findings to analyze and provide solutions to ineffective policies and structures.

While some sociology programs feature complex theoretical investigations, project-based programs take a practical approach. If you're more hands-on, you'll appreciate the focus on testing, experimentation, and measuring.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Sociology

Cost of doctoral degrees.

When choosing a Ph.D. program, many people first look at program cost and length. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual cost of tuition and fees at graduate school was $19,749 in 2020-21. Public schools cost less than private colleges and universities, with average annual tuition prices at $12,394 and $28,445, respectively.

Rather than comparing cost, however, you might consider affordability. Factor in what kind of financial aid options you qualify for, such as federal financial aid , grants, and scholarships . Many schools offer tuition discounts and creative payment options as well.

Online vs. On-Campus Ph.D.

Online Ph.D. programs typically feature scheduled synchronous classes, anytime asynchronous classes, or a combination of both. Synchronous sessions usually offer evening or weekend options.

Along with schedule flexibility, online Ph.D. programs require little or no on-campus requirements and travel. This makes even the most distant programs accessible, giving you more options to choose from.

While convenient, online Ph.D. programs may not suit everyone. Online learning may have a less interactive environment and require more independence than on-campus programs. Finally, not all Ph.D. disciplines translate to online studies, particularly those with heavy practical requirements.

Even the easiest online Ph.D. program can prove challenging. Before settling on one, make sure your learning style and requirements align with the delivery method and resources provided.

3 Considerations When Choosing a Ph.D. Degree

Every student wants and needs different things from their Ph.D. program. Regardless of how easy a Ph.D. program looks, they all require a significant commitment. To make sure you make the best decision, consider other factors, like:

• Faculty: Your school's faculty could play a major role in what and how you learn. Try picking a school and program that has experts in your field.
• Research Environment: You also want to examine the research environment, including the libraries, centers, and labs. Ask what type of support Ph.D. students receive and what tools and resources they have at their disposal.
• Past Graduate Performance: Look at the school and program's previous graduates. Pull statistics on their performance in the program and careers afterward. High retention, graduation, and employment numbers can be effective quality assurance measures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easiest Ph.D. Degree Programs

Can you get a ph.d. without a dissertation.

Yes. While most doctorates without dissertations belong to professional programs, you can earn a Ph.D. without completing a traditional dissertation at some schools. Some programs have a practical project, and others have a research project without the depth of a dissertation.

Are there any 1-year Ph.D. programs?

No. You can earn certain professional doctorates in about one year, but you cannot complete a Ph.D. program in that time. While Ph.D. programs typically take 5-7 years to complete, some of the easiest Ph.D. programs allow you to graduate in less than four years.

What are the best Ph.D. programs for working professionals?

An asynchronous online program may be the easiest Ph.D. to get for working professionals. This delivery method allows you to complete your studies during the hours that suit you best. An asynchronous schedule can even accommodate a nontraditional work schedule.

What is the most difficult Ph.D. program?

The most difficult Ph.D. program depends on how you learn best, but certain disciplines tend to be more difficult. Highly technical programs, such as mathematics and science disciplines, challenge many students. Very involved and intensive programs like engineering may also prove to be difficult.

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2024 Easiest PhD Programs to Get Online [Guide]

If you’ve always wanted to put the title of “Doctor” in front of your name, then you might be curious about the easiest PhD to get. While all PhD studies require hard work, you may find some programs easier than others.

Surveying the landscape of available programs can give you an idea of which degree would be most suitable for your interests, availability, and academic skills.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Then, you can settle on the PhD program that not only will be easiest for you but could also contribute to achieving your goals.

Universities Offering Easiest Online PhD Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer PhD programs online or in a hybrid format with no dissertation, no residency requirement, no GRE or GMAT requirement, less math and science required, or accelerated programs.

Adams State University

Adams State University offers a PhD Counselor Education and Supervision. The low-residency program requires campus visits over the course of 4 summers. Cohorts begin each fall and follow a semester schedule.GRE or GMAT scores are not required. Adams State prefers 2 years of counseling experience for applicants.

Adams State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Amridge University

A PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies can be earned online through Amridge University. Courses are 8 to 14 weeks long. There are no residency requirements. On average, the 51 required credits may be completed in 4 years.

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

Capella University

Capella University offers several PhD programs, including Psychology, Education, Business Management, and Behavior Analysis. Most programs require a dissertation or capstone project. Capella does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Some programs require short residencies or field experiences. Courses are 10 weeks long.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University

A PhD in Music Therapy can be earned through Colorado State University. The program is in an accelerated format and may be completed in as little as 3 to 5 years. All courses are online and there are no residency requirements. The program does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

Colorado State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University – Chicago offers a PhD in Leadership with an emphasis in Sports Leadership through its fully online program. Most courses are 8 weeks long, and dissertation and research courses are a full semester. On average, the program requirements may be completed in 3 years.

Concordia University – Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

East Carolina University

A PhD in Nursing is available through East Carolina University. All coursework is fully online. The low-residency program requires campus visits for immersive experiences for the first 2 years. GRE or GMAT scores are not required to apply. The program offers concentrations in Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership.

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

Faulkner University

Faulkner University offers 3 online PhD programs, including Health Sciences, Humanities, and Biblical Studies. A dissertation is required and the program may allow presentation through a virtual meeting. Faulkner does not require applicants to submit GRE or GMAT scores. On average, the program may be completed in18 months.

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

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers multiple PhD programs. All programs are a PhD in General Psychology with emphases like Performance Psychology, Cognition and Instruction, and Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Most programs have low residency requirements and require sessions of 3 to 5 days on campus. Test scores may not be required.

GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Hampton University

Hampton University offers 4 online PhD programs, including Business Administration, Nursing, Counselor Education and Supervision, and Education Management. Some programs are in a hybrid format and require short residencies during the summers. Applicants are not required to submit GMAT or GRE scores. There are start dates in the fall, spring, and summer.

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

Indiana State University

A PhD in Educational Administration with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership is offered through Indiana State University. The program requires 45 coursework hours and 15 dissertation hours. The program requires residencies during the summer. The required coursework can typically be completed in 5 semesters.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Johnson University

Johnson University offers a PhD in Leadership Studies. The program is designed for those who want to further their careers. There are various concentrations, including Educational Leadership, Ministry Leadership, and Theology of Leadership. The program is online with start dates in the fall or spring semesters.

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

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a wide selection of online PhD programs. Many programs are fully online with some requiring short campus residencies for intensives. Courses are 8 weeks long, and there are 8 convenient start dates each year. Programs include Aviation, Organization and Management, Strategic Media, Bible Exposition, and Criminal Justice.

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

National University

A PhD can be earned online through National University. While most programs are fully online, some require short residencies or internships. Courses are 4 weeks long, and there are several start dates throughout the year. National’s PhD programs include Business Administration, Technology Management, Human Resource Management, and Marriage and Family Therapy.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Regent University

Regent University offers the opportunity to earn a PhD in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Entrepreneurial Leadership. The program is fully online and does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Courses are taught through a Christian worldview and include Kingdom Business Leadership Strategies. The program requires 60 credits.

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

Trident University International

Trident University International offers a PhD in Educational Leadership. The program is fully online. Various concentrations are available including Educational Technology and Teaching, Learning, and Development. Courses are 12 weeks long and are offered during the fall, winter, spring, and summer. The program may allow credit for prior experience.

Trident University International is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers 3 online PhD programs including Organizational Development and Leadership, Education, and Human Services. All residencies are virtual. Courses are asynchronous. Most doctoral courses are 6 weeks long, while capstone courses are 9 weeks. UAGC does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of Florida

The University of Florida offers multiple online PhD programs including Classical Civilization and Latin & Roman Studies. The programs are designed with flexible schedules and special sessions during breaks. Courses are online with aPhDresidency during the summer. The program requires 60 credits.

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

University of Missouri – Columbia

The University of Missouri – Columbia offers a PhD in Human Environmental Sciences with an emphasis in Architectural Studies. The program is fully online with no required residencies. UM offers an optional on-campus workshop during the summer. Courses follow a semester schedule. The program can typically be completed in 5 years.

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

University of Tennessee – Knoxville

A PhD in Educational Psychology and Research with a concentration in Adult & Continuing Education is available through the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. The program is fully online. Courses follow a semester schedule with fall and spring start dates. Test scores are not required to apply.

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University offers several PhD programs online, including Counselor Education & Supervision, Criminal Justice, and Health Education & Promotion. Most programs are fully online and some require short residencies. The school offers course-based and self-paced programs with several yearly start dates.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

What Is the Easiest PhD to Get?

You can expect every PhD program to be rigorous and challenging. Even still, there may be some programs that you’d find easier than others.

Because people have unique aptitudes and interests, everyone’s definition of “easy” is a bit different. Despite that, the following characteristics are often associated with easier PhD programs:

• Asynchronous online classes
• Fast-track course format—often involving 8 week classes
• Fewer in-person campus visits required
• Fewer science and mathematics classes
• No dissertation required
• Opportunity to transfer in multiple credits
• Shorter overall length

The following programs are often listed among the easiest and fastest PhD programs online. Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

PhD in Business Administration

Phd in counseling, phd in criminal justice, phd in education, phd in human services, phd in public administration, phd in public health, phd in public policy, phd in psychology, phd in theology.

Exploring your options may help you determine which academic path is right for you.

For a business PhD, you may take classes in econometrics, information systems, decision-making, innovation, and statistics.

There are often many concentration options available, including finance, organizational leadership, marketing, and management. Your focus area will largely determine what classes you take. A business-related PhD will address theories of effective business practices and leadership.

This degree could help prepare you to teach business courses or spearhead research in management and operations. Having a business PhD could also equip you to take a lead role in your organization, such as becoming a chief executive.

Topics addressed in counseling PhD programs often include counseling techniques, personality theories, human development, and mental disorders. The classes may also teach you about developing and evaluating programs.

You may gain practical experience in a real-world counseling setting. Some students who get this degree opt for a concentration in counselor supervision. That track would prepare you to help future psychology students gain the education and experience they’ll need.

With this degree, you might teach psychology classes or become a licensed counseling psychologist who works with patients.

As a student in a criminal justice PhD program, you will study criminology and victimology. The classes may teach you about terrorism, intelligence, and security. It’s possible you will learn about new developments in forensics. You’ll also spend time thinking about policies and practices for preventing crime and rehabilitating offenders.

Having this degree would qualify you to teach criminal justice to college students, but there are also many practitioner paths you could take with it. The options might include policymaking, criminal profiling and investigations, and military leadership.

PhD students in education programs often study learning theories and educational technology. If you enroll in this program, you may also discuss issues facing modern schools and consider solutions.

Many education PhDs focus on curriculum and instruction. Students study the best ways to help learners acquire and retain new information. Within that discipline, there may be a variety of concentrations available, such as early childhood and literacy.

PhD holders may be leaders in school districts and state boards of education. Being a college professor who trains future educators is another potential option.

As a student in a human services program, you are likely to study social issues and potential solutions. Possible topics include mental health, crime, disaster management, and aging populations.

In addition, you may gain practical skills related to the responsibilities involved in leading human services organizations. For example, you might study grant writing, needs assessment, and program implementation.

With a human services PhD, you may become a researcher or a policymaker who considers ways to address social issues. You could also lead community organizations designed for meeting people’s needs.

The courses in a public administration PhD program often cover organizational theories, policymaking procedures, management techniques, and program leadership. You might also study economics, finance, human resources, decision-making, and strategic planning.

Some PhD programs include joint studies in both public administration and public policy. Learning about public administration at the doctoral level might help prepare you to lead government or nonprofit organizations. It could also be useful for anyone interested in directing public policy, conducting policy-related research, teaching public administration courses, or working in a legislative capacity.

Doctoral candidates in public health learn about biostatistics and epidemiology. It’s also helpful to understand factors that influence people’s health, such as genetics, environment, and human behavior.

If you get a PhD in Public Health, you may study grant writing, health ethics, and the structure of the healthcare system as well. This PhD could be useful for anyone who wants to be involved in research and development for public health policies. The degree could also lead to a career as a public health professor or the leader of a healthcare organization.

Advanced study in public policy requires learning about economics, political science, sociology, and statistics. You’ll also practice both quantitative and qualitative analysis.

Your curriculum may include classes in modern social justice issues, nonprofit leadership, policy ethics, and international development. The degree may allow you to specialize in a certain area of public policy. Examples include education, healthcare, poverty, and energy.

Public policy PhD holders know how to conduct critical analyses that can influence policy development. As researchers or educators, they may work in university, government, or NGO settings.

The curriculum for your PhD in Psychology might include classes in psychological testing, human development, cognitive processes, change management, and survey methods.

You may also learn how to teach psychology concepts to students and provide valuable consulting services to organizations. As a student in psychology, you might choose a concentration area. Ideas include health psychology, developmental psychology, educational psychology, and community psychology.

People with PhDs in Psychology often work as professors, social science researchers, or consultants. They might also qualify to become licensed to work in private practice or other healthcare settings as clinical or counseling psychologists.

For a degree in theology, students may learn about religious traditions, sacred texts, belief systems, and ethical teachings. Theology degrees are often offered by religious universities, and most focus on the teachings and practices of the Christian tradition.

To earn this PhD, you might be required to become proficient in one or more languages. Common examples are Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. French and German may be options too. Graduates may become theology or religion professors in the US or overseas. Alternatively, they may become authors or ministry leaders.

Easy PhD Programs Admissions Requirements

Even if you are selecting one of the easiest or shortest PhD programs, you’ll still go through an extensive application process. A few common requirements are listed below:

• Goal statement to let the school know about your research interests and career plans
• Official transcripts from all colleges you’ve attended
• Recommendation letters
• GRE or GMAT test scores (not required at all schools)

Many PhD programs require you to hold a master’s degree before applying.

Easiest PhD Programs Accreditation

When you’re searching for the easiest doctoral degree, you may come across some unaccredited universities that promise easy PhDs. While their programs may be tempting, it’s advantageous to focus your attention only on accredited schools. Even when hoping for an easy degree, you don’t want to compromise on quality.

Regionally accredited colleges have shown themselves to be quality institutions where you’ll receive a credible education. The credits often transfer between schools, and the degrees they confer earn employers’ respect.

Should I Get a PhD?

If you want to be a college instructor, then getting a PhD would certainly be an asset. The academia-focused PhD degree is often a strategic choice for aspiring university-level educators.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that postsecondary instructors earn a median of $79,640 annually. A PhD is a large commitment, though. Even if you choose one of the easiest programs, you’ll dedicate significant time and effort to this undertaking. It can help to be a person who thoroughly enjoys school, particularly the research and writing aspects.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD?

Not all PhD programs require a masters degree as part of the admissions process. Some regularly admit students straight from undergraduate programs. Whether you’ll be able to find PhD programs like that will likely depend on your field of study.

Keep in mind that master’s degrees prepare students for graduate-level research. If you haven’t previously earned a graduate degree, then you may be required to take some foundational classes near the beginning of your PhD program.

What Can You Do with a PhD?

People with PhDs often become educators at the college level. Working as a higher education administrator is a similar line of work for people with PhDs to consider. Other graduates become scientific researchers. Examples include medical scientists, information research scientists, sociologists, and economists.

A PhD may qualify someone to head up research projects. Some people with PhDs work as practitioners in their field. For example, some PhD professionals work as business executives or clinical psychologists, depending on their field.

Can You Get a PhD Online?

Yes, many students earn their PhDs online! Programs offered online are often considered among the easiest PhDs to get because of their flexible nature. They don’t require relocating to a college campus or attending classes at set times. Rather, you can fit online studies into your regular life.

Some PhD programs ask online students to come to campus occasionally. You may be required to attend a week-long intensive session or meet with your faculty advisor. Other programs are fully online, and you can even defend your dissertation through the computer.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD Online?

In general, 3 to 5 years is a pretty common timeframe for earning a PhD. Usually, programs involve a couple of years of classes followed by several years of dissertation work.

If you can complete your dissertation quickly—or if your program doesn’t require a dissertation—you can graduate sooner. Many no-dissertation online PhD programs can be completed in 3 years or less. In some fields, you may even find the option for a 12-month or 18-month doctorate without dissertation.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

There’s a wide range of typical costs for PhD programs, but many schools charge between $600 and $1,000 per credit hour.

The number of credit hours required will depend not only on how many classes you’re required to take but also on how long you spend working on your dissertation. For a less expensive degree, you could focus your school search on in-state public universities. You might be able to receive a resident rate of just $300 to $400 per credit hour.

Are There 1 Year Online Doctoral Programs?

It may be possible for you to earn a doctorate in close to 1 year. Most PhD programs take 3 years or more, but there are exceptions. To finish school in 1 year, it’d be necessary to pick the easiest PhD without dissertation.

Writing a dissertation can take several years, but not all doctoral degrees require this major project. For 1 year online doctoral programs , you’ll likely want a program with year-round coursework offered in an accelerated format. For example, you may be able to complete each course in just 1 month or 2 months.

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

There are different types of doctoral degrees, including professional doctorates and PhDs. Consider which is best for you.

Many students can finish professional doctorates more quickly than PhDs—often 1 year or 2 years faster.

Getting Your PhD Degree Online

Your future plans may include earning one of the easiest doctorate degrees. Getting a PhD could enhance your life and career in many ways. You may feel personally fulfilled after achieving this goal, and it might help you secure your dream career as well.

How many PhD programs should you apply to ? To ensure that you have sufficient time to create well-crafted applications for each university, it is generally advised by experts to consider applying to a range of 4 to 6 PhD programs.

If you choose an easier PhD program, doctoral studies may not take over your life. Rather, you might be able to quickly complete school while also balancing your personal responsibilities. Getting your PhD online could really help with that.

With online PhD studies, you can earn your degree from anywhere. What could you get a PhD in ? You could start exploring accredited universities with easy PhD programs today!

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Easy Accredited Online Ph.D Programs

What is the benefit of easy phd programs.

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

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

Featured Programs

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

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

See Also: Easy Online Master’s Degree Programs

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

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

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

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

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

See Also: Top 15 Accredited Online PhD Programs

Can I Really Earn a Doctoral Degree Online?

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

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

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

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

What Are the Best Online Doctoral Degrees?

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

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

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

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

1. capella university.

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

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

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

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

Online DBA program focuses:

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

Examples of the PhD programs:

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

Learn more about the easiest doctorate at Capella University here .

2. Walden University

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

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

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

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

Examples of doctorate program:

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

Learn more about doctoral programs at Walden University here .

3. University of Florida

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

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

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

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

Doctorate Degree Programs include:

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

Learn more about doctoral programs at University of Florida here .

4. Liberty University

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

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

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

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

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

Doctorate Degree Programs that can be completed online include:

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

Learn more about doctoral programs at Liberty University here .

5. University of North Dakota

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

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

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

• environmental
• petroleum engineering

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

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

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

6. Northcentral University

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

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

• education programs
• criminal justice

NCU employs a one-to-one learning model.

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

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

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

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

7. East Carolina University

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. University of Missouri

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

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

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

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

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

9. Indiana State University

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

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

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

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

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

10. University of Arkansas

Become a University of Arkansas Razorback!

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

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

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

Check out the doctor of nursing practice information here .

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

11. Grand Canyon University

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

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

• Performance psychology
• Cognitive psychology
• Industrial/organizational psychology

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

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

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

12. Nova Southeastern University

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

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

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

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

Other Online Doctorate Degrees include:

• computer science
• health sciences
• information systems

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

13. California Intercontinental University

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

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

CIU’s DBA candidates choose between four specializations:

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

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

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

14. Colorado State University

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

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

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

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

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

15. University of Maryland Global Campus

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

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

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

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

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

16. Trident University

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

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

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

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

• Business administration
• Educational leadership
• Health services

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

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

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

17. University of Tennessee is in Knoxville

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Concordia University Chicago

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

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

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

• Health care
• Human resources

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

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

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

19. Lamar University

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about online learning at Lamar University here .

20. Keiser University

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the doctorate degree at Keiser University here .

21. Pittsburg State University

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Bowling Green State University

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Johnson University

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the doctoral program at Johnson University here.

24. Hampton University

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about this doctorate degree at Hampton University here .

25. Maryville University of St. Louis

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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

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

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

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

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

27. Faulkner University

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

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

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

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

Learn more about online learning at Faulkner University here .

28. Regis University

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

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

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

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

Students pursuing doctorate degrees should check out Regis University here .

29. University of the Southwest

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

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

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

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

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

30. University of South Carolina

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

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

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

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

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

Doctoral Program: Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important for a school to be accredited.

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

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

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

When looking at PhD programs, check for accreditation.

What types of jobs does a Doctoral degree lead to?

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

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

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

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

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

What’s a professional degree?

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

How long does a Doctoral program last?

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

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

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

Do all Doctoral programs require a dissertation?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Continue your school search with these rankings:

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

Easiest PhDs Students Should Consider

Finding the easiest PhDs can be a remarkable opportunity for any student looking to further their education.

With a higher degree, you can explore several profitable career options while studying for your dream job.

That said, some PhDs are more challenging and time-consuming than others, making it hard for students to find the right avenue for their studies.

If you’re searching for the easiest doctorate or easiest PhD program in your area, this guide is here to help.

We’ll briefly review several excellent programs to help you answer, “ What is the easiest doctorate degree that I can get my hands on? “

A List of the Easiest PhDs for Students

Let’s get right into the list of the easiest PhDs you will find today. They include:

1. Doctorate of Business Administration

Business administration is one of the most popular avenues for students looking for the easiest doctorate degree.

That is because most of your studies will revolve around the fundamentals of business and a specific specialty if you desire.

For example, if desired, you can get a Ph.D. in general business management or opt for a Ph.D. in advanced marketing.

With a business administration Ph.D., you’ll explore numerous concepts such as professional ethics, modern business design, and the tools you need to refine business operations.

Many students looking for an easy PhD route love business programs because they open the door to many employment opportunities.

Undoubtedly, most businesses in your area are looking for professionals with a business doctorate.

2. Doctorate of Arts

If you’re looking for a versatile degree program, an advanced art degree is one of the easiest doctoral degree options to explore.

Designed for creative-minded individuals, a doctorate of arts helps unlock many doors to artistic careers.

You may find yourself working in the arts or music, or you can also enroll in higher education options for teachers instead of an EdD.

With a doctorate of arts, you’re likely to find several programs offered both in-person and online.

Most programs with this title don’t require in-person attendance, like medical doctors, and the curriculum is slightly more adaptable to different learning styles.

A few amazing examples of fulfilling careers you can explore with a doctor of arts online include:

• Research Associate
• Assistant Professor
• Language Arts Teaching
• Ceramics Designer
• Art Therapist
• Advertising Art Director

3. Doctorate of Education

Becoming a teacher can be a fantastic opportunity for students looking to diversify their skills and find a rewarding career.

Teaching young minds makes you one of the contributors to a better future.

You’re part of the ins and outs of a unique specialty that fosters a new generation of world leaders and learners.

That said, to find a career worthwhile as an educator, working towards a doctorate in education can make a massive difference.

Education is the easiest PhD to earn because you can work towards it while employed.

In fact, many teachers find that studying and teaching concurrently is a fantastic way to enhance their continuing education, helping to make them more employable.

That said, it’s important that you find the perfect program to fulfill your educational requirements.

One of the more interesting elements of a doctorate of education is it comes in many different forms, depending on your specialty.

For example, teachers can earn an EdD in psychology, social justice education, or even educational leadership and policy.

After obtaining your degree, you can continue teaching at your current level with a significant pay raise or choose a more advanced teaching position.

4. Doctorate of Healthcare Administration

If you’re asking, “ What is the easiest doctorate degree to complete ? ” healthcare administration is one of your top solutions.

It’s a phenomenal program for students who have always had a passion for healthcare without dealing with the in-depth studies of medical doctors.

Instead, healthcare administration focuses primarily on managing hospitals and ensuring everything runs smoothly regarding patient care from the background.

With a doctorate in healthcare administration, much of your studies will strongly emphasize healthcare finances, advanced patient care, hospital policies, ethics, and group management.

You may find yourself in a position to run an entire hospital or be on a board of members working towards running healthcare institutions.

There are many career options for these professionals, including:

• Nursing Home Managers
• Clinic Managers
• Health Information Managers
• Hospital Administrators

5. Doctorate of Human Services

For many, working with underserved populations is the ultimate goal for schooling and pursuing your dream career.

With a doctorate in human services, you’ll have the advanced knowledge to help others succeed in life in several avenues.

Whether you have experience in rehabilitation or social work, this is a phenomenal advanced degree that’s often considered one of the easiest PhD programs to get into.

During your studies, you’ll dive into important topics such as human rights, policies, legislation, and ethics when working with underserved populations.

You can also choose from many specialties, whether it be mental health management, rehabilitation, urban city planning, and more.

Also, it’s important to note that a doctorate in human services will never become less popular.

As the world changes and families find it more difficult to survive, these professionals are needed more now than ever.

You may work as a community service manager, offering development and job training, or even working in social service.

It’s equally as rewarding from an emotional perspective as it can be profitable over time.

6. Doctorate of Public Administration

Have you always been a career-minded individual interested in helping others achieve their full potential in an office environment?

If so, a career in public administration could be the easiest doctorate to get that falls within your skill set.

With a doctorate in public administration, you’re most likely to work alongside or run a human resources department.

Alternatively, you may work with managing the overall operations of personnel within a business.

Regardless, it’s the type of career designed for professionals who love working with people to enhance the success and productivity of a business.

With your studies, public administration students often review public policy, strategic planning, and management ethics.

It’s also likely you’ll become well-trained in economics, conducting employee evaluations, managing the performance and expectations of staff, and more.

There are numerous careers to unlock with a doctorate of public administration, including:

• Budget Analyst
• Human Resources Manager
• Health Services Manager

7. Doctorate of Public Health

A doctorate in public health isn’t the easiest PhD degree on this list, but with experience, it can become one of the most profitable.

With the pandemic, the need for public health professionals has never been more pressing than it is today.

That said, finding placement in this study field should be significantly easier than the easiest medical doctor degree.

The central premise behind a doctorate of public health is to train professionals to advise the public on important health measures.

In most cases, this will involve analyzing statistics, working alongside patients, and working in teams to prevent major health crises.

The best part about this type of career is that it’s very hands-on, meaning it’s a learning pathway for students who prefer to learn using their practical skills.

As expected, there are a few unique careers to explore with a doctorate in public health, including:

• Medical Service Managers
• Medical Researchers
• Epidemiologists
• Biostatisticians
• Health Educators

8. Doctorate of Psychology

If you do some research to answer, “ What is the easiest doctorate degree to get ? ” plenty of medical professionals suggest a doctorate of psychology.

Undoubtedly, there’s plenty of strenuous studies that go into an advanced psychology degree, although it is considerably less than the average medical doctor.

With a doctorate in psychology, you’ll be able to apply research skills to the wonderful world of mental health to assist patients on a larger scale.

The most important thing to note is that a psychology doctorate is often required for practicing psychologists.

In some areas, a master’s degree is sufficient to open your own practice, while other states require a doctorate.

As such, you may not have a choice but to sign up for a doctorate of psychology program if you want to treat patients.

There are many career paths graduates can take after obtaining this degree.

It’s also important to note that psychology is a continually high-demand industry, meaning your specialty will never become less popular over the years.

A few of the most popular careers for a doctorate of psychology student include:

• Child Psychologist
• Professional Development Specialist
• Professional Consultant
• Clinical Psychologist
• Addictions Counselor

9. Doctorate of Theology

Out of all the programs we’ve reviewed this far, a doctorate of theology is the easiest PhD program you can sign up for.

Designed to help guide students through spiritual practice, you can guarantee it’s one of the easiest online doctorate programs you can also attend in person.

That said, it requires plenty of dedication, especially when it comes to applying your faith to every inch of your career.

With a doctorate of theology under your arm, you’ll likely spend a lot of time traveling.

Many of these professionals teach and learn about religions worldwide, exploring divine and spiritual traditions in cultures on every continent.

There are also theology students focusing primarily on Christianity and spreading the word of Christ to communities worldwide.

During your studies, you’ll dive into many fascinating subjects, such as literature, history, ethics, ancient texts, and philosophy .

Also, as expected, you’re more than likely going to find a religious-oriented career upon graduation, such as a:

• Minister or Pastor
• Private School Teacher
• Director of Religious Education
• Social Services Manager

10. Doctorate of Nursing

A doctorate of nursing is often considered the easiest PhD to obtain because it requires plenty of experience beforehand.

Most professionals looking to enhance their medical experience enter a doctorate of nursing program with at least three years of employable experience.

From there, they diversify their knowledge in different medical fields to pursue more enhanced career options.

With a doctorate of nursing, you’ll dive into advanced health systems, senior roles in health care, and outcome evaluation.

Most of these programs have a combination of hands-on and textbook learning and work-integrated research projects.

As such, you’ll find it’s one of the easiest PhDs to get if you already have experience with nursing and need a program to complete while employed.

A few of the most popular career avenues graduates from this program might explore include:

• Healthcare Executive
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
• Healthcare Lobbyist
• Clinical Researcher

What Are the Best Schools for the Easiest PhD Programs?

With an answer to “ What’s the easiest doctorate to get ? ” it’s simple to see the exponential options open to students of any background.

When pursuing further education, picking your potential area of study is the first step, but knowing what schools to attend is also important.

Let’s explore the easiest doctorate programs to get into to help you start submitting your applications ASAP.

1. Boston University: Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Boston University is one of the most popular post-secondary institutions in the United States, and for a good reason.

It’s home to some of the most diverse learning pathways for students nationwide.

That said, their doctor of occupational therapy degree program is the easiest PhD subject to dive into.

With this program, you’ll be able to complete your full doctorate within 18 months, consisting of only ten courses.

Students will need to earn up to 37 credits with several fruitful concentrations to choose from.

The best part is this is a fully online program, allowing you to get your advanced studies from the comfort of your home.

Another reason this specialty is the easiest PhD to get is that it focuses on evidence-based practice.

Ideally, you’ll enter this field with existing knowledge to help you get started, and you won’t have to worry about a dissertation.

With courses starting three times yearly (September, January, and May), it’s a great option for students.

2. University of North Carolina: Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy

If you’ve always dreamt of pursuing a degree in health sciences, the doctoral program in physical therapy from the University of North Carolina is fantastic.

They have two primary options for students to consider, either earn an online Ph.D. in nursing or earn a medical degree and master of business administration simultaneously.

Referred to as a transitional doctoral program, it’s the easiest doctorate to obtain because your learning pathway is streamlined.

Students only have to dedicate 24 consecutive months to their studies.

Also, you can choose to complete the program online or attend your courses in person.

With full-time and part-time study options, it’s a fabulous solution for career-minded individuals looking to diversify their earned degrees.

3. Liberty University: Doctor of Education

Becoming a teacher is a dream for many and Liberty University has one of the easiest doctor of education programs to consider.

It’s a fully online course, just like other online DMA programs.

You’ll also be able to earn your full degree within 30 months as long as you complete all 54 credits.

Each course will span eight weeks, and you’ll never have to worry about a dissertation, an amazing advantage for further education.

That said, you will be responsible for a capstone project, which is something to keep in mind.

If you’re asking, “ What is the easiest doctorate degree to earn ? ” this doctor of education program has an in-depth curriculum that’s great for all learners.

4. Frontier University: Doctor of Nursing Practice

As a nurse looking to diversify your career, it’s time to ask, “ What’s the easiest PhD to get in my career field? “

Frontier University is home to one of the most competitive DNP programs because of how well-thought-out the coursework is.

With a top-rated curriculum and fully online learning, it’s the perfect solution for employed professionals seeking an advanced university degree.

The DNP program at this school allows students to complete their studies between 18 and 20 months from enrollment.

In total, you’ll be required to complete 33 credit hours, whether you want to do so part-time or full-time, based on your schedule.

Most enrolled students are currently employed nurses in their respective fields, thanks to Frontier University’s flexibility.

Online learning gives you complete control over when and how you study, whether before or after work.

You’ll also be able to set up your own schedule, giving you enhanced control when managing your coursework.

One of the largest benefits of this program is that it doesn’t require GRE or GMAT but is likely to have a waiting list.

It’s also important to note the program doesn’t require students to complete clinical hours, making it even easier to accomplish.

Along with the fundamentals of your DNP, you can also take an assortment of complimentary courses to give you experience in a chosen specialty.

5. University of Tennessee: Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice and Leadership

Social work is an incredibly rewarding career, especially if you’ve been asking, “ What is the easiest PhD to get ? “

The University of Tennessee has a highly competitive doctor of social work in clinical practice and leadership programs all students should consider.

Within 36 months, your program will be completed, depending on the number and type of courses you choose to take.

This program is unique because it’s specifically designed to be a faster track, allowing students to condense their learning into shorter chunks.

That said, you’ll still be learning all of the fundamentals at a significantly faster pace than with similar programs.

With this program, you’ll find it’s a remarkable opportunity for working professionals interested in simultaneously maintaining their careers and studies.

The only requirement is that you take at least two classes per semester for three semesters.

From there, you have complete control over your studies, making it a flexible and adaptable learning pathway for every student.

Upon graduation, you’ll have everything you need to work as a healer or leader in your industry, all without the headache of a dissertation.

6. Walden University: Doctor of Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Walden University is a phenomenal option for students looking to take control of their studies.

With their self-designed programs, you can pick the appropriate courses that align with your future career goals and specialty.

Whether you’re a first-time student or a working professional looking to enhance your existing knowledge, it’s a great opportunity.

The doctor of higher education leadership and policy is easily one of the easiest course options available from this school.

The best part is that they have a 100% acceptance rate, speaking to the quality of their curriculum and the number of graduates they assist.

Another huge benefit of Walden University is they accept up to 50% of your transfer credits for the Ph.D. fast-track options, helping you complete your studies faster.

When studying in this program, you’ll require 86 quarter credits, which can be completed within three years or much shorter with a fast track.

You’ll explore many fundamentals, such as education law, policy, governance, and 21st-century higher education.

7. Capella University: Doctor of Psychology

When asking, “ What is the easiest doctorate to get ? “, a doctorate of psychology is a great choice that unlocks numerous career options.

At Capella University, students can study from anywhere in the world as long as they have an internet connection, as the course is entirely online.

If you’ve been searching for a degree program with a higher level of flexibility than most standard programs, this is the best choice.

Most students in this program complete their studies within five quarters, which is ideal for working professionals.

In total, you’ll be required to get 87 credits, which could take nine quarters if you choose to study part-time.

The best part, as expected, is the coursework is entirely online.

At Capella University, students benefit from a 100% acceptance rate and a few other benefits, like military benefits, employer discounts, and scholarships.

You’ll also find their tuition is quite affordable, especially for a Ph.D. program, at $545.

Expect to explore many fundamentals, such as inferential statistics, quantitative research methods, and multicultural issues in psychology.

8. University of Florida: Doctorate of Classical Studies

Classical studies are a fundamental aspect of human development and history.

Without these professionals, we wouldn’t have a way to preserve ancient texts, learn from past mistakes, and continue teaching historical facts over the years.

With a doctorate in classical studies, you’ll explore many fascinating subjects, such as Roman traditions, Greek prose, and Latin prose.

One of the most significant benefits of this program is that it’s offered by the University of Florida, one of the nation’s top research facilities.

It’s also a highly competitive specialty program, so it’s offered on-campus and requires a maximum of three years of study.

That said, if you want a doctorate in this area of expertise, you need 60 credits for the course to be completed.

Another important feature of the University of Florida is its thriving campus life.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for students interested in networking and making lifelong friends.

There are also numerous activities on and off campus to explore, ranging from local cuisines to art shows.

9. Arizona State University: Doctorate in Behavioral Health

If you love the idea of assisting with mental health but don’t want to allocate a lot of time to a doctorate, a doctorate in behavioral health is a great alternative to psychology.

At Arizona State University, students will work alongside clinical professionals to offer medical services to help others with better mental health and well-being.

You’ll understand how mental health affects your mind and body, as well as what behavioral interventions are best for certain situations.

You’ll dive into different concentrations during your studies, such as health management, psychopharmacology, and clinical concentrations.

Many students explore courses like advanced clinical issues, ethical issues in psychology, and legal issues in behavioral healthcare.

That said, it’s important to note this career is quite different from a standard psychologist or psychiatrist, as you are not qualified to make diagnoses.

This program can be completed within 12 months, allowing you to explore a world of fabulous opportunities.

It’s a phenomenal way to branch out into the mental and behavioral health industry.

10. University of Arkansas – Doctorate of Adult and Career Education

Students who have always wanted to try their hands at teaching will love this program offered by the University of Arkansas.

With 24 months of courses, you’ll have the skillset necessary to help adult learners further their education.

This area of specialty is also fantastic for assisting with career preparedness and academic guidance for older students.

You’ll explore numerous subjects when enrolled in this program, such as organizational management, adult learning theory, ethical issues in adult learning, and more.

Upon graduation, you’ll have amazing skills to work with cognitive coaching and create diverse learning opportunities for all students.

What Are the Easiest PhDs ?

Ultimately, the easiest PhDs could be anything from nursing to occupational health; it mostly depends on your expertise.

With shorter, fast-tracked programs and online studies, you can get your advanced degree in less time and in a way that best suits your needs.

There’s no better time than now to enroll in the easiest Ph.D. programs to become a more competitive learner.

Best Spring Break Destinations for College Students

Degrees That Don’t Require Math: Top Options for Your Future Career

Easiest Grad Schools to Get Into [2024 Guide]

What are the easiest grad schools to get into? Getting into graduate school takes work no matter what school or program you’re applying to, but easier admissions and coursework requirements might make the experience less demanding.

Some factors that can make a master’s program seem easier than others include 100% online classes, no thesis requirement, or a curriculum that isn’t heavily focused on mathematics or science.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Read on to discover grad programs from various fields of study that are considered less difficult to get into and complete.

Easiest Grad Schools to Get Into

While getting into any graduate school takes dedication and work, there are a few things that can make getting into a graduate school easier for most students.

Some factors that can make getting into a graduate school more difficult include a high minimum GPA requirement, a thesis or internship requirement, a high tuition rate, and a low acceptance rate. The easiest graduate schools to get into may not require prerequisites, GRE test scores, or internship experience.

Some master’s programs may be considered easier because they offer a more flexible schedule or major coursework that you’re comfortable with.

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

• Online Masters in Accounting
• Online Master of Business Administration
• Online Masters in Communications
• Online Masters in Criminal Justice
• Online Masters in Education and Teaching
• Online Masters in Healthcare Administration
• Online Masters in Human Resource Management
• Online Masters in Human Services
• Online Masters in Information Technology
• Online Masters in Liberal Arts
• Online Masters in Marketing
• Online Masters in Nursing
• Online Masters in Psychology
• Online Masters in Social Work
• Online Masters in Sports Management

You may want to explore your options to decide which program is right for you.

Masters in Accounting

A master’s in accounting can be one of the easiest master’s degree programs for those who have an undergraduate degree in accounting.

While accounting graduate programs involve studying complex formulas and financial concepts, many of these topics are introduced in undergraduate accounting courses. Some topics typically explored include taxation, financial and managerial accounting, and fraud examination. This degree may be useful for mid- to senior-level positions in finance or accounting.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

An MBA can help prepare you for a business career as a manager, chief executive officer, or similar administrative role.

A background in business or a similar area of study can be helpful in understanding business and leadership concepts explored in an MBA program. An MBA can be a flexible degree because specializations are usually offered so you can study a certain aspect of business, such as project management or business analytics.

Masters in Communication

Communication can be one of the easiest masters programs to get into, depending on the school, because it usually doesn’t require a specific undergraduate degree for entry.

Communication graduate programs can be useful for pursuing a career that requires advanced communication techniques, such as marketing manager or public relations manager. Topics typically covered in this program include digital media, mass communication, and public and media relations.

Masters in Criminal Justice

A masters in criminal justice studies criminology and various aspects of crime, such as cybercrime, the justice system, forensics, and crime and justice policies.

Some master’s in criminal justice programs are offered fully online and have accelerated semester schedule options, making the program more flexible. A master’s in criminal justice can be useful for senior-level positions, such as senior correction officer, fraud investigator, federal agent, or criminologist.

Masters in Education and Teaching

A masters degree in education and teaching can help you advance in your career and increase your earning potential. Some education careers that typically require a masters degree include instructional coordinator, dean of students, and principal.

If you currently hold a bachelor’s in education and enjoyed taking the undergraduate coursework required, you might find the courses in a master’s in education easier to complete.

Masters in Healthcare Administration

A masters in healthcare administration focuses on the development of leadership skills and practices in the healthcare industry.

Some courses typically offered in this program include organizational behavior, data-driven healthcare management, and legal and ethical issues in healthcare. A master’s in healthcare administration is designed to prepare you for a leadership position in various sectors of the healthcare industry, such as hospital administration, healthcare advocacy, or healthcare consulting.

Masters in Human Resources

Some masters in human resources programs are available fully online with a non-thesis track option. Your coursework may review foundational topics relating to HR functions before diving into advanced HR topics related to employment law and ethics, talent management, organizational development, and HR information systems.

This degree can be useful if you want to pursue a leadership position in HR, such as chief HR officer, training and development manager, or HR director.

Masters in Human Services

A masters in human services can introduce you to strategic management practices for human services programs. Financial management, human services program design and evaluation, and social policy and advocacy are a few of the topics that may be studied.

With a master’s in the field, some professionals pursue a career as a human services administrator, human services program director, social and community services manager, or similar leadership role.

Masters in Information Technology (IT)

An IT masters program builds upon IT fundamentals and concepts typically studied at the undergraduate level. Some topics explored in a master’s in IT program might include IT systems planning and development, database design, and data visualization.

This program may help you develop skills and knowledge in IT and computer science that can be applied to a career in data analytics, IT security, software engineering, or information systems management.

Masters in Liberal Arts

A masters in liberal arts is generally considered a flexible degree program because you have the opportunity to focus your studies on several subjects within the arts and humanities.

This multidisciplinary program may help you develop effective communication, critical reasoning, and problem-solving skills that are essential to a variety of careers. A master’s degree in liberal arts can be applied to numerous industries, such as education, business, or art and entertainment.

Masters in Marketing

A master’s in marketing can be valuable if you’re interested in pursuing a leadership role in the marketing sector of the business environment.

Some careers that may be attainable with this degree include market research analyst, marketing manager, sales manager, and public relations manager. Major coursework for this degree focuses on advanced marketing concepts, such as marketing management, product development, brand management, pricing strategy, and consumer behavior.

Masters in Nursing (MSN)

A Master of Science in Nursing is generally a career-oriented program that allows current or aspiring nursing professionals to specialize in a specific area of nursing.

Advanced nursing and healthcare topics are the primary focus of major coursework. Some online programs may have in-person residency requirements. An MSN can be useful for many nursing-related careers that typically require a master’s degree, such as advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), nursing educator, or nurse manager.

Masters in Psychology

A masters degree in psychology studies various types of psychology, along with research methods, psychophysiology, and psychopharmacology.

Specializations for this degree are usually available to allow students to concentrate on a specific aspect of psychology, such as industrial-organizational psychology, clinical psychology, or applied developmental psychology. This degree can be useful for many careers in the psychology field that require an advanced degree, such as psychologist, guidance counselor, and clinical social worker.

Masters in Social Work (MSW)

A Master of Social Work provides an overview of the fundamentals of social work and human behavior before diving into more advanced topics, like research methods for social workers, psychopathology, and social policy.

Most major coursework typically falls under one of the branches of social science. Some careers that typically require a master’s degree in social work or a similar field include school counselor and clinical social worker.

Masters in Sports Management

Online masters in sports management degrees introduce students to management strategies and practices relevant to the sports industry.

Some topics that might be explored include sports event and organization management, strategic marketing, sport finance, and facility management. Some careers this degree can be useful for include athletic director, coach, sports event coordinator, and sports facility manager. Non-thesis tracks for this degree are available, which may be completed in less than 2 years.

How to Choose an Easy Graduate School to Get Into

There are several factors that can influence how easy it is to get into graduate school. To find the easiest graduate schools to get into, you can ask yourself these questions:

• What is the acceptance rate?
• Does the school require test scores?
• Is there a minimum GPA requirement?
• Are there any prerequisite requirements?

Schools often post their acceptance rates online, which is one of the best ways to determine how easy it is to get into the school. Schools with a low acceptance rate are more competitive than schools with high acceptance rates. A high acceptance rate is generally considered at least 50% or higher. This means that at least half of the students who applied were admitted.

Other factors to consider are admissions requirements. Some schools have more rigorous admissions requirements than others. For example, some degree programs require students to hold a specific undergraduate degree to be admitted.

Common Graduate School Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements can differ between graduate schools, but these are some basic requirements you may encounter:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Official transcripts
• Minimum GPA
• GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)

The most basic admissions requirements that nearly every grad school will have include an undergraduate degree and official transcripts.

Some schools may have additional requirements, such as a minimum GPA or standardized test scores. While not all schools request them, many graduate schools also ask for letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

Easiest Master Degrees Accreditation

Accreditation is an important factor to consider no matter what degree you want to pursue. Colleges and universities can choose to seek regional accreditation from a regional accrediting agency. Accredited institutions are recognized as offering quality educational services and resources.

Accreditation can be important for graduate school admissions eligibility, employment opportunities, financial aid eligibility, and overall assurance that you’re receiving a quality education. You can search the US Department of Education ’s school database to find accredited postsecondary institutions.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

When narrowing down your list of easy graduate schools to get into, affordability can play a key role. To determine if you’re eligible for federal aid, such as student loans, you can submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through the US Department of Education.

Many schools offer financial assistance to students who demonstrate financial need based on their FAFSA results. Your state may also use these results to determine your eligibility for any state aid opportunities. Financial assistance for college can come in many forms, including loans, grants, work-study programs, employer programs, and scholarships.

Is It Hard to Get Into Grad School?

The level of difficulty to get into grad school can vary and ultimately depends on the school and program of study. Some graduate schools have more rigorous admissions requirements, such as GRE test scores, an admissions interview, or a high minimum GPA. Is it hard to get into grad school ? Grad schools that are considered hard to get into generally have low acceptance rates.

Easy grad schools to get into typically have high acceptance rates. Some also do not require additional admissions criteria outside of the basic requirements of a bachelors degree and official transcripts.

What Do Grad Schools Look For?

While every school is different, here are some things graduate admissions offices often look for when considering prospective students:

• Strong personal statement
• Academic performance
• Coursework completed in your undergraduate program
• Relevant internship, volunteer, or work experience

So, what do graduate schools look for in applicants? If a personal statement is required, graduate schools usually want to know what your interests are and how they relate to the program you’re applying for. Grad schools may also take any relevant work experience you have into consideration. Official transcripts are used to review academic performance and relevant coursework.

Can You Get Into Grad School with a Low GPA?

There are low GPA masters programs available. A satisfactory GPA score for many graduate programs is a 3.0 or higher. But, there are master’s programs that set the minimum GPA requirements at 2.5 or lower.

While having a low GPA may limit your choices, there are still grad schools that accept students with a lower GPA. There are also other opportunities in the application process—such as in a statement of purpose or letters of recommendation—where you can highlight your academic achievements and strengths.

What Are Easy Masters Degrees That Pay Well?

Some masters degrees that are considered less difficult and can lead to high-paying careers include those in communication, education, human resources, business administration, and information technology.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are the median annual salaries of high-paying careers that may be attainable with a master’s degree:

• Computer and information systems managers — $164,070
• Marketing managers — $140,040
• Human resources managers — $130,000
• Public relations managers — $129,430
• K-12 education administrators — $101,320

Salary ranges and job availability can vary depending on your chosen industry, level of education, work experience, employer, and location.

Is Grad School Worth It?

Yes, grad school is worth it for many students. Earning a masters degree may demonstrate to employers that you have the skills and abilities to perform specialized tasks or take on additional responsibilities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for professionals with a master’s degree is lower compared to professionals with an undergraduate degree or no college experience. There are also many graduate degree careers that are expected to have a faster or much faster than average job growth rate over the next ten years.

Universities Offering Easy Masters Degree Programs Online

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

The Academy of Art University offers a limited number of online graduate programs for students seeking a career in the arts. The school does not require GRE or GMAT scores or letters of recommendation to apply. A master’s degree can potentially be earned in just 4 semesters. Many courses are asynchronous or available via Zoom.

Academy of Art University is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Bellevue University does not require test scores from graduate applicants. To apply, prospective students must hold a 2.5 GPA in the last 60 credits of their bachelor’s degrees. A graduate degree may be earned fully online through asynchronous courses. Many courses are taken in an accelerated format, and there are start dates offered throughout the year.

Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Brigham Young University does not require test scores or letters of recommendation for graduate applicants. Students must complete an ecclesiastical endorsement and hold a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA. Students may be able to complete most of their courses in an online or blended format. Graduate programs are offered in athletic training, chemical engineering, and educational leadership.

BYU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Letters of recommendation and GRE and GMAT scores are not required to apply to Colorado Technical University’s graduate program. The program requires students to have a 2.0 baccalaureate GPA. A graduate degree may be completed fully online or in a hybrid format. Fields of study offered include criminal justice, healthcare management, and computer science.

Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Many of DePaul University’s graduate programs have no test score requirements and only require a 2.5 undergraduate GPA.

DePaul offers several graduate degrees that may be earned in online or hybrid formats. Most programs offer start dates four times per year, with courses offered in the fall, winter, spring, and summer. Fields of study offered include game programming and artificial intelligence. DePaul University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

Grand Canyon University does not require students with baccalaureate GPAs of 2.8 to submit test scores. Those with lower GPAs may be admitted with qualifying GMAT or GRE scores. Grand Canyon University offers convenient graduate programs with online and evening classes for working students. Programs are offered in urban ministry, addiction counseling, forensic science, and more.

GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Most graduate programs at Herzing University require a 2.7 baccalaureate GPA and a graduate interview to apply. GRE and GMAT scores are typically not required. Herzing offers online graduate degrees in four industries: nursing, healthcare, behavioral health, and business. There are multiple start dates offered throughout the year.

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Maryland Global Campus requires graduate applicants to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

Most programs allow students to enroll and start earning their first 6 credits as long as official baccalaureate transcripts are submitted before the last day of the first term of enrollment. Graduate degrees may be earned in online or hybrid formats. Courses follow a semester schedule. Fields of study offered include cybersecurity management and policy, transformational leadership, and cloud computing systems.

UMGC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Wayne State College does not require graduate applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores. The school offers several graduate degrees at an affordable tuition rate. All courses are fully online. Courses follow a semester schedule and are offered in the fall, spring, and summer. Many courses are asynchronous. Studies are offered in business administration, special education, and more.

Wayne State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Weber State University only looks at a student’s last 60 hours of undergraduate credit or their GPA in specific courses for graduate admission.

The school offers graduate programs in fully online and hybrid formats. Most courses follow a semester schedule. Fields of study offered include radiologic sciences, taxation, nursing education, and systems engineering.

Weber State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Getting Your Master’s Degree Online

Whether you’re interested in advancing in your field or pursuing a career that requires a graduate degree, earning an online master’s degree could help you work toward your goals.

There are many reasons why a graduate school could be considered easy to get into, such as them having less strict admissions requirements, greater affordability, or a high acceptance rate. Depending on your chosen field of study, online programs may offer more flexibility that makes it easier to get your graduate degree.

You can take your first steps toward getting a graduate degree by researching accredited schools and online programs that best support your interests and career goals.

Guide on Getting Into Grad School

Helpful information and exercises for prospective graduate students

Graduate Degrees Awarded at Stanford 2020-21

• 1,822 MA/MS
• 817 PhD, DMA, JSD

If you’re considering grad school for your future, you are probably asking yourself many questions:

• Is grad school the best option for me now? 
• What are the benefits and challenges? 
• What’s the difference between undergrad and grad school? 
• Should I seek a master’s or doctoral program? 
• Which grad programs should I apply for? 
• What’s involved in an application to grad school? 
• What are admissions committees looking for? 
• Who can help me? What resources are available? 
• What are some alternatives to grad school?

These are all important questions to consider, and they should be considered carefully. This guide is organized around the main aspects of the decision-making process and application, which can help address many of your questions. 

Because these decisions and your application for graduate school are complex and time-consuming, this guide was prepared to provide critical information and advice. This guide  also contains questions to ask yourself and exercises to help you prepare your application for graduate programs. Be as honest as possible with yourself, and talk about your answers with close friends and family. You may need to adjust the wording of your answers for your application, but it’s important to begin with an honest self-assessment as you prepare your application.

Using this guide and working on these exercises can help you get started in the right direction. Additional resources and tools are incorporated within this guide. However, remember to also seek help from other people: faculty, advisors, grad students, postdocs, peers, and career counselors. This guide is meant to provide an overview and does not cover everything. Your specific situation can only be addressed by close friends and mentors who know you personally. 

As you address multiple decisions, this can be a stressful time period. But it may help to realize that you are not alone, and that many others have approached these decisions and have  successfully embarked on new adventures. So, remember to find friends to encourage you in this process. We wish you the best in these new adventures.

Undergraduate vs Graduate (PhD) Programs

The experiences of an undergraduate and graduate student can appear deceptively similar. They are both at a university doing coursework and research. However, there are significant differences. Not understanding the depth of these differences can hinder your chances of being admitted and succeeding in grad school.

Undergraduate Programs You are a student “at school X” • Focus on courses and grades  • More objective evaluations of performance from exams and homework • Feedback is relatively frequent • Most activities and performance evaluations are individualistic

You apply to a university or college • Your interests can be very broad • You apply to a discipline or major • Extracurricular activities are valued

Graduate (PhD) Programs You are a student of “Dr. Z” (research advisor) •  Focus on research •  More subjective evaluations and longer periods without concrete feedback •  Collaboration and independence are valued together, which will likely appear to be counter-intuitive— most activities and performance evaluations are individualistic •  Relationship-driven

You apply into a specific graduate program •  Your interests need to be much more specific •  You apply into a specific field within a discipline •  Some programs require you to apply to work directly with a specific professor •  Extracurricular activities are valued less, unless they demonstrate critical skills related to your field

Master’s vs Doctoral Programs

While a typical 4-year undergraduate program refers to pursuing a bachelor’s degree (often a BS or BA degree), a graduate program can refer to pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree.

Master’s Programs (MS or MA) •  Master’s programs usually provide much less financial support.  •  Master’s programs usually last about 2 years, but there are shorter and longer programs, with the range usually between 1 to 3 years. •  All master’s programs require coursework, and only some require research that leads to a thesis (a write-up of your research). •  Requirements for master’s programs are usually less than those for doctoral programs.

Doctoral Programs (PhD) •  Doctoral programs usually provide financial support. •  Doctoral programs have a wide range of typical lengths, from 4 to 8 years. The length of the program is very specific to the field. •  In some doctoral programs (e.g. some engineering programs), you earn a master’s degree before earning a PhD. But in many other programs, the master’s degree is not required before pursuing a PhD. •  All doctoral programs require research that leads to a dissertation (longer than a master’s thesis, a write-up of multiple years of research). •  For some doctoral programs, if you are not able to complete all of the requirements, you might be allowed to exit with a master’s degree.

© Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305

The 20 Easiest Online Doctorate Degrees

Find your perfect school.

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

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

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

Methodology

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

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

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

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

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

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

Easiest Online Doctorate Degrees

Doctor of arts (da).

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

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

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

Holy Family University

3206 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19134

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

Online students must complete the academic requirements for 60 credits with the option to submit a dissertation or not; the doctoral thesis is recommended in such online doctorate programs but not required. The online learning program needs to be completed within two years.

Murray State University 

DA – English Pedagogy

102 Curris Center, Murray, Kentucky 42071  (800) 272-4678

Teachers who are currently teaching English and its related studies at the secondary and post-secondary levels will find the D.A. English Pedagogy online doctorate program an excellent fit.

Students can choose from four specializations – Literacy, Language, Literature, and Writing – although academic explorations beyond their chosen specializations are strongly encouraged in these online doctorate programs.

There are also routes to choose from: 

• The traditional D.A. path is designed for students with a master’s degree, and it has 48 semester hours in the curriculum. 
• The accelerated M.A.-to-D.A. route consists of 72 semester hours, and it’s designed for students with only a bachelor’s degree. Students earn both a Master’s in English and a D.A. in English Pedagogy (Literature) after completion.

Doctor of Design (DDes)

Professionals seeking to conduct intensive and rigorous research into design-related subjects should look into the Doctor of Design (DDes) programs.

While the curricula in online doctoral degree programs of this type are different between schools, this online program emphasizes applied research. The applied research in these online doctorate programs covers a wide range of topics from building design and urban planning to product design.

The multidisciplinary approach in DDes doctoral programs focusing on applied research combines theoretical, technological, and applied topics.

North Carolina State University Online

Campus Box 7113, Raleigh, NC 27695-7555 (919) 515-9030

Design practitioners with a deep desire to create new knowledge and applications in design and a transformative educational experience are welcome to apply to this program. Students in these online doctorate programs pursue design research that will create the environment, structures, and systems for the future of design.

DDes doctoral programs introduce their students to research design and its methods the first year of the program; they then turn their attention to independent inquiry. A detailed design research proposal is drafted early in the second year of this 54-credit program, and students prepare for the preliminary exam. Finally, in the final years, original research is conducted toward the final dissertation process in design research .

Florida International University 

11200 SW 8th Street P.C.A. – 280 Miami, Florida 33199 (305) 348-1323

FIU designed its DDes doctoral programs to produce a generation of architects ready to meet the rigorous challenges of their profession and field. This is a two-year online program with minimal residency requirements. Doctoral students are encouraged to do so through a combination of research, scholarly activities, and innovation. 

The program accepts as many as 15 master-level transfer credits so that eligible students can earn their DDes degree in two years. The 60-credit program welcomes working professionals who are either teaching or aspire to teach architecture. The curriculum in these online doctorate programs usually cover the latest computer technology, digital fabrication, robotics, and advanced visualization tools.

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Doctoral students who want to work in government, non-profit organizations, and the K-12 system can apply to the Doctor of Education programs (Ed.D.) These online doctoral degree programs are different from the Doctor of Philosophy in Education or programs since these are designed to: 

• Develop leadership and administrative skills
• Equip students with practical skills instead of philosophical abilities 
• Enable education students to research on the practical implications of policy and practice

Students of EdD programs work full-time while pursuing the terminal degree. In contrast, a Ph.D. in Education is for education students who want a career in the academe, such as post-secondary teachers.

Walden University 

7065 Samuel Morse Drive Columbia, MD 21046 (866) 492-5336

Walden has established a reputation for being the Educator of Educators for more than 50 years, Education students in this doctoral program mostly specialize in Early Childhood Education, Community College Leadership, Educational Technology, Higher Education and Adult Learning, P-20 Education, and Special Education.

Doctoral programs like this typically require students to submit a research capstone project. Education students can rely on the school’s Doctoral Support Services.

Maryville University

EdD – Higher Education Leadership

650 Maryville University Drive St. Louis, MO 63141 (888) 266-0574

Education students earning this doctorate degree become future-focused, responsive, and reflective leaders in the field. With the program’s focus on exploring leadership theory and practice for higher education settings, students gain actionable insights into policy, governance, and finances.

This Doctor of Education (EDD) is a 48-credit program that takes 32 months. Graduates of these online doctorate programs can become leaders in their workplaces, such as presidents, deans, or provosts.

Doctor of Hebrew Letters (DHL)

Rabbis are the typical online students of Doctor of Hebrew Studies (DHL) programs. This widely considered unconventional degree encourages doctoral students to pursue individualized learning. 

Students for these online doctoral programs exercise their analytical and critical thinking skills related to the Jewish faith. The online coursework covers the Talmud and its codes and commentaries and the Bible, the Midrash and Hasidic work.

Jewish Theological Seminary

Doctor of Hebrew Literature

3080 Broadway, New York, NY 10027 (212) 678-8000

Offered at the Gershon Kekst Graduate School, the Doctor of Hebrew Literature (DHL) program is offered in these concentrations:

• Ancient Jewish Studies
• Medieval and Early Modern Jewish Studies
• Jewish History
• Jewish Thought 
• Modern Jewish 
• Midrash 

Students in this kind of online doctoral programs typically pursue advanced academic work but don’t seek to establish a traditional academic career.

Reconstructionist Rabbinical College

Doctor of Hebrew Letters

1299 Church Road, Wyncote, PA 19095 (215) 576-0800

Students at R.R.C.’s DHL program learn the deeper connections between contemporary and traditional Jewish faith. In these online doctorate programs, most are practicing rabbis who have already completed the doctoral dissertation process at other institutions. 

The program consists of three distinct learning phases: 

• Mekhinah Year, a preparatory year 
• Years 1-3, a Core Program phase 
• Years 4-5, also a Core Program phase

Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.)

The Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) is less research-oriented than Ph.D. degrees in musical arts. The typical D.M.A. online doctorate programs combine post-graduate academic study and advanced applied studies in an area of specialization.

Graduates of D.M.A. doctoral programs become professional conductors, composers, and performers and work in teaching positions. Specializations in these types of accredited online PhD programs include voice pedagogy, instrument pedagogy, and music literature. (If you want doctoral training in music theory, music therapy, or musicology, consider a Ph.D. program instead).  

Boston University 

D.M.A. in Music Education

855 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215 (617) 353-3350

BU’s D.M.A. in Music Education program welcomes students who want to boost their teaching careers, keep their musician skills in tiptop shape, and develop their scholarly skills. The university itself is a highly respected institution that has produced many of the country’s best teachers, performers, and musicians! 

Candidates in these online doctoral programs should have at least three years of experience teaching music, demonstrate leadership in the education sector, and a minimum of 3.0 GPA.

Rutgers University

D.M.A.  

33 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (848) 932-9360

Offered at the Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers’ D.M.A. program is considered the best because of its exceptional academic and practical training. Students for these online doctorate programs choose from three concentrations: 

• Choral Conducting 
• Instrumental/Wind Conducting 
• Orchestral Conducting 

Each concentration requires performances in selected venues along with academic online coursework. Students also get weekly, hour-long lessons with their teachers during the 12-week semester.

Doctor of Health Administration (D.H.A.)

Being a leader in healthcare settings is a tough job! While work experience is a must, higher education comes in handy, too. Doctor of Health Administration or D.H.A. graduates become clinical directors, health service managers, and health or nursing program managers in hospitals, nursing homes, and other settings. 

Students can choose from specializations or tracks, such as an executive track focusing on practical leadership skillsets and internships. The common courses include: 

• Healthcare finance
• Healthcare system administration
• Healthcare policy
• Health economics
• Organizational theory and behavior

Franklin University

201 S Grant Ave., Columbus, OH 43215  (614) 797-4700

Franklin’s D.H.A. program consists of 58 semester hours divided into: 

• 16 hours of research core 
• 20 hours of major area courses 
• 12 hours of electives 
• 10 hours of dissertation 

The best thing about it: You can finish it in approximately three years! You may even finish it in less time, provided that you have at least 24 transferable credits. 

Medical University of South Carolina

151-A Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29425 (843) 792-2536

Healthcare practitioners and professionals who want to use their clinical and administrative experiences for better career opportunities can take the first step by enrolling in MUSC’s D.H.A. program. Graduates become eligible for teaching positions in colleges and universities and leaders in public policy organizations, among others.

A new cohort of the DHA program begins every fall and consists of 56 hours and delivered in a blended format. There are two tracks – the Health Administrator and the Health Professional tracks. 

Doctor of Health Education (DHeD)

Healthcare educators, practicing clinicians, and leaders in the healthcare industry will find DHed programs a boost to their careers and crucial for their professional development. Here, students sharpen their leadership, communication, critical thinking skills, and teaching and research skill sets.

Plus, these programs generally don’t require a dissertation. Instead, students complete a Doctoral Research Project (D.R.P.), a written document published in peer-reviewed journals. Students also choose from several concentrations, including: 

• Public Nutrition 
• Epidemiology 
• Health Education Administration 
• Behavioral Theory 
• Health Policy 
• Health Services Planning 

A.T. Still University 

800 W. Jefferson Street, Kirksville, MO 63501 (660) 626-2121

The DHeD program at ATSU consists of 55 hours or 15 courses, with each core course equivalent to three credit hours. Students complete a Doctoral Research Project (D.R.P.) consisting of five 5-hour courses.

You’ll learn about traditional and emerging pedagogical and andragogical methods. A number of topics will be discussed, including student-centered learning, heutagogy, pedagogy 2.0 and 3.0, as well as problem-based learning and transformative learning. Teaching and learning will be focused on hybrid, online, and face-to-face environments.

Logan University 

Doctor of Health Professions Education (DHPE)

1851 Schoettler Rd., Chesterfield, MO 63017 (800) 782-3344

Logan’s DHPE program is a 100% online program that allows students the benefits of self-paced study. Students can even complete their practicum and applied research projects in the comfort of their homes! Earning a doctorate without putting your life and work on hold has never been easier! 

Students are encouraged to apply their clinical experience, education skill set, and content expertise to become excellent professionals. Full-time and part-time status in this kind of doctoral programs enable students to complete the doctorate on their own time. 

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The beauty of Ph.D. programs partly lies in the sheer number of concentrations offered! It’s safe to say that there’s a Ph.D. program in every possible area of study, from the sciences to the arts. The actual coursework depends on the specific area of study, but the curriculum consists of academic coursework and a dissertation. 

Since Ph.D. or doctoral programs are heavy on research, most graduates become professors, researchers, and post-doctoral fellows. The academe has a strong pull among Ph.D. graduates because it’s where their advanced teaching and research abilities can be showcased.

Faulkner University 

Ph.D.  in Humanities

5345 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36109 (800) 879-9816

The Ph.D. in Humanities program at Faulkner combines a worldly perspective with a Christian education , which results in challenging and engaging discussions. The 100% online program includes an effective online learning platform and several courses, including: 

• A foundation course in the philosophy and history of the humanities 
• Seven core courses 
• Two dissertation courses 
• Two interdisciplinary seminar courses
• Three independent tutorials in a specific area of interest 

Students can complete doctoral programs like this in three to five years, depending on their status and dissertation process completion. Credits may be transferred – up to six hours – upon the director’s approval. 

Amridge University 

Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies

1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 (888) 790-8080

Students choose numerous courses across multiple disciplines, including Marriage and Family Therapy, Counselling, and Biblical Studies. Their stay in the program is marked by an individualized plan of study, outstanding instruction from professors and mentors, and ample student support services. 

These doctoral programs consists of 51 semester hours, consisting of research, academic areas, dissertation process, and comprehensive exam courses. Combining these courses means that students gain specialized yet multidisciplinary knowledge and skills.

• Doctor of Public Health (D.P.H.)

Most D.H.P. programs require 3-4 years of study that includes academic work in education, business, and public health. Students may be required to pass an approved dissertation and pass a comprehensive oral and written exam, perhaps a short-term residency program. Graduate students can choose specializations in global health, occupational health, and environmental epidemiology. The coursework includes: 

• Health psychology
• Data and statistical analysis
• Quantitative and qualitative research issues
• Pharmacoeconomics
• Ecological toxicology
• Epidemiology

Johns Hopkins University 

3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 516-8000

Early to mid-career public health practitioners flock to J.H.U.’s top-notch D.P.H. program because it’s considered a golden ticket to executive-level positions in national and international public health organizations. Indeed, the Johns Hopkins reputation precedes it!

Students choose from several concentrations. The program itself trains its students for these positions through intensive education in: 

• Leadership and communication 
• Policy and program design 
• Management and ethics 
• Data and analytical skills 

This program demands long-term commitment, too – full-time students complete it in 5-7 years while part-time students have nine years for completion.

University of South Florida 

4202 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33620, U.S.A. (813) 974-2011

The U.S.F.’s D.P.H. program offers two concentrations: 

• Advanced Practice Leadership in Public Health 
• Public Health, Clinical Laboratory Science and Practice

Both have 43 credits for completion, consisting of core, concentration, and elective courses and a doctoral project as a culminating requirement. Students must finish 13 credit hours at the 7000 levels. Candidates may request a maximum of 12 post-master credit hours. 

Students in this type of doctoral programs gain skill sets in management and leadership, community engagement, and evidence-based public health and education.

Doctor of Theology (ThD)/Ph.D. in Theology

The current ThD programs are regarded as a cross between Ph.D. and Doctor of Ministry (DMin) programs. While the Ph.D. programs are intensive and research-focused and the DMin programs are less intensive and application-oriented, the ThD programs have a balanced approach. These are research-oriented but with more focus on practical applications, particularly toward the improvement of practice. 

Experienced theology practitioners who want a more expansive theological foundation upon which innovations can be created will benefit the most from ThD programs.

Regent University

Ph.D. in Renewal Theology

1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (800) 373-5504

Regent’s Ph.D. in Renewal Theology is a low-residency program that requires students to attend on-campus, two-week residency sessions every semester. These face-to-face sessions include in-seat class time, orientations, and academic and fellowship opportunities. The rest of the semester, however, is spent online. 

Pastors, missionaries, and educators are the typical students in the doctoral programs. This 60-week program includes these concentrations: 

• Biblical Studies
• Christian Theology
• Church History
• Practical Theology

Pontifex University 

4465 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30327 (404) 252-4513

The ThD program at Pontifex University is a research-focused one where students must complete a lengthy scholarly dissertation But the dissertation process is easier and can be completed online.

Candidates must demonstrate satisfactory moral theology, systematic theology, Old and New Testament, and ecclesiastical history, among other subjects. If the candidate successfully completes the eight core study areas, he or she will receive a Diploma in Theological Foundation, which, when combined with a graduate degree, may be considered an acceptable basis for applying to a ThD program.

Ph.D. in Recreation

Students enrolled in Ph.D. in Recreation doctoral programs can spend between three and five years on their studies, depending on their enrollment status. Their graduate-level academic coursework is complemented by comprehensive examinations and a dissertation project, common graduation requirements. The choices in concentration include: 

• Recreational Behavior and Cultural Studies 
• Recreation and Leisure Administration 
• Resources for Recreational and Leisure Activities 

Core classes vary between programs, but the most common are: 

• Contemporary issues in the field of recreation 
• Resources, policies, and emerging trends in recreation 
• Work, health, and safety in leisure 
• Qualitative and quantitative research data analysis 

Clemson University 

Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

263 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0735 (864) 656-3400 

Students have greater flexibility in determining their coursework within Clemson’s program, but there are general rules regarding the program of study. These include completing the academic requirements of at least 30 credit hours with the coursework, including Philosophical Foundations, Behavioral Aspects of PRTM, and Research Seminar.

A comprehensive exam and a final doctoral oral exam are also a must for graduation purposes as part of the final dissertation defense in this kind of doctoral programs. Both of these aspects test the student’s general and specialized knowledge and his/her knowledge of his/her research topic. 

Troy University 

Ph.D. in Sports Management

600 University Ave, Troy, AL 36082 (800) 551-9716

Troy’s Ph.D. program welcomes sport management educators and sports practitioners who want to contribute to the body of knowledge in recreation, leisure, and sports management. Students are provided with plenty of amazing opportunities to produce new, innovative, and theoretical knowledge with possible practical applications. This is a research-oriented online doctoral degree program.

Students of this type of doctoral programs learn about sports management and develop their advanced skills in data analysis, statistics, and other soft skills for the workplace. Graduates become fit for leadership and executive roles in higher education, sports research, and athletics. 

Doctor of Church Music (D.C.M.)

The D.C.M. doctoral programs are considered easy because of their emphasis on musicianship skills in preparation for careers as professional composers, conductors, and performers of church music. Since students already have proficient music skills through education and experience, the requirements are fairly easy. 

The typical curriculum of this online doctoral degree includes training in musical instruments, such as the church organ, and a survey of past and current liturgical music. Most programs have a three-year duration. 

Graduate Theological Foundation 

Doctor of Sacred Music (D.S.M.)

116 E Sheridan Ave, Ste 207, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 (800) 423-5983

The D.S.M. program consists of two parts – 30 credits of 10 courses and six credits with the choice between an exit project or a non-project option. The exit project can be in the form of one of three tracks with the choice belonging to the student and with the guidance of an advisor, including: 

• The academic track consists of a traditional thesis with 35,000-40,000 words 
• The performance tracking can be a recital or a lecture with a recital; an instrumental or choral performance; or composition and performance of original works 
• The administrative or ministerial track, featuring hymnody or workshops combined with a thesis  

Individuals with experience in parish music ministries and a master’s degree in music are welcome to apply to such doctoral programs.

Southern Methodist University

Doctor of Pastoral Music (D.P.M.)

S.M.U. Perkins School of Theology, P.O. Box 750133, Dallas, TX 75275-0133 (214) 768-8436 

The 30-credit-hour D.P.M. online doctoral degree program at S.M.U. enables church music practitioners to become even better at their vocation. The curriculum consists of: 

• Vocation and leadership courses (9 hours) including The Person and Role of a Leader in Ministry and Vocation, Leadership, and Community
• Concentration courses (15 hours) with classes on Music and Arts in Missional Ministry, Applied Studies in Church Music, and Music in Worship and Renewal
• Elective courses (3 hours) with choices like Directed Studies in Pastoral Music and Contextual Analysis
• Project, practicum, and thesis (12 hours) 

Candidates must have a Master’s in Sacred Music or its equivalent and suitable experience as church musicians and a passion for pastoral music. 

• Juris Doctor (JD)

Formerly known as a Bachelor of Laws (L.L.B.), the Juris Doctor (JD) is a three-year professional degree that requires its holders to pass a state bar exam before becoming law practitioners. There are accelerated online doctoral degree or J.D. programs with a two-year duration. Fordham, Columbia, Rutgers, and Drexel are among the foremost universities that offer the shorter option. 

While holders of other doctorate degrees can call themselves “Doctor,” individuals with a J.D. degree don’t because it isn’t a research doctorate. But J.D. holders who passed their state’s respective bar exam can practice law or become law professors. 

If you’re interested in a law-related research degree, you can look into two options. First, a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree and, second, a Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D./J.S.D.) degree. The LL.M. degree requires a J.D. degree as a prerequisite, while an S.J.D. degree has LL.M. degree as a prerequisite. 

New York University

40 Washington Sq. South, New York, NY 10012.    (212) 998-6100

NYU’s J.D. program is known for its outstanding quality of instruction, where students learn an extensive range of subjects in legal studies. Students whose professional trajectory includes business and law will find an excellent outlet for their passions in the Mitchell Jacobson Leadership Program.

With N.Y.U. Law’s reputation for being the best in the business, students benefit from the intensive law coursework complemented by corporate skills. Students also benefit from collaborations with non-law students, particularly business students, which expand their perspective about law’s importance. 

Abraham Lincoln University

Galleria Office Tower, 100 W. Broadway, Ste 600, Glendale, CA 91210 (213) 252-5100

ALU’s J.D. program provides a conducive environment for working professionals and other non-traditional students who want to plunge into the diverse careers that a J.D. degree opens. Students learn the laws of the land and conduct legal research, apply advanced thinking skills, and create legal documents during their training. 

This is a 140-quarter unit online doctoral degree program that includes core courses in criminal law, contracts and obligations, constitutional law, criminal procedure, and advanced legal research and writing.

Doctor of Criminal Justice (D.C.J.)

Holders of the D.C.J. degree have the skillset to become effective professionals in the academe, research industry, and administrative units in public and private organizations. Keep in mind that, like all doctorate degrees, it’s a professional terminal degree emphasizing applied research. 

In contrast, the Ph.D. in Criminal Justice or Criminology focuses on theoretical research. Both doctorate degrees, nonetheless, have overlapping functions considering that theoretical and applied research may overlap. But if you’re looking for such doctoral programs, you will gain the skillset to solve current issues using existing knowledge.

California University of Pennsylvania 

250 University Ave., California, PA 15419 (724) 938-4000

Cal U’s D.C.J. program was the first regionally accredited program of its kind in the country, and, through the years, it has established a reputation for being one of the best. Students learn from the experts about applying existing knowledge in responding to and addressing the current issues of the criminal justice system.

This is a 42-credit online doctoral degree program in Criminal Justice with a two-year completion timeline, including part-time enrollment. Students must study well, nonetheless, because the coursework can be demanding. The curriculum includes the completion of a doctoral research portfolio and passing a comprehensive exam. 

Saint Leo University 

33701 State Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574 (800) 334-5532

Saint Leo offered the second accredited D.C.J. program in the U.S., and, like Cal U, it has improved its curriculum and other aspects of instruction through the years. This is a 30-credit Criminal Justice program that can be completed in three-and-a-half years with full-time enrollment in the fall, spring, and summer terms.

Online doctoral degree graduates and students of this Criminal Justice degree online enjoy outstanding student support services, including effective partnerships between students and dissertation chairs. The Criminal Justice coursework can be customized depending on your personal and professional schedules.

Doctor of Liberal Studies (D.L.S.) 

Online doctoral degree programs in liberal studies are a consistent presence in lists of the easiest degrees because of their generalist approach, including the lack of advanced math and science courses. This is true for the D.L.S. degree programs, emphasizing the humanities, including history, art, and social sciences. 

These doctoral programs are the best fit for accomplished professionals who want a rigorous interdisciplinary program that will boost their expertise in their field. Indeed, most doctoral programs require students to meet the competitive admission process with small cohort sizes and comprehensive coursework. 

University of Memphis Global 

Memphis, TN 38152 (901) 678-2000

Offered at the College of Professional and Liberal Studies, the D.L.S. online doctoral degree program allows students to follow a customized course of study with the guidance of academic advisors. Both parties work toward developing a curriculum proposal that meets the Graduate School’s graduation requirements and the student’s interdisciplinary goals. 

Students must submit their respective Coordinated Study grid, a planning document that identifies their proposed classes, before admission into the program. The program requires 33 hours of coordinated study courses and 21 hours of core requirements or 54 hours at the 7000 to 8000 level. Comprehensive exams and a dissertation process are also necessary for graduation. 

Washington University in Saint Louis 

11 N. Jackson Ave, Suite 1000, St. Louis, MO 63105-2153 (314) 935-6700

WashU Saint Louis’ DLA online doctoral degree program consists of 45 credits with nine credits dedicated for thesis and research. This is designed for working professionals and other adult learners with extensive experience with a passion for lifelong learning. It’s a rigorous interdisciplinary program that’s easy because it’s liberal studies but difficult because of the breadth of topics. 

Part-time students can complete the program in four years but must dedicate 1-2 years more for the comprehensive exams and thesis. Students work closely with academic advisors to ensure thesis completion and approval. 

Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A.) 

All D.P.A. or doctoral programs of this kind offer a unique approach, curriculum, and graduation requirements that must be evaluated based on their merit. Most programs consist of at least 40 credit hours with academic coursework and dissertation process components and take 2-3 years to complete.

Many programs offer concentrations, such as ethical leadership, public management, and non-profit management, which allow for a specific field of study. 

Career opportunities are as varied as the D.P.A. programs, with popular examples being financial managers, college professors, political scientists, social service managers, urban and regional planners, and consultants.

Capella University 

Capella’s D.P.A. program is a breeding ground for future community leaders and advocates of effective public policy! Students get the crucial education through academic coursework, soft skills development, and community engagement.

Aside from earning a relevant D.P.A. degree, students also deepen their passion for public service and strengthen their cultural awareness and ethics. The blended doctoral programs features relevant courses like Theories and Concepts in Public Administration, Public Sector Policy Analysis, and Operational Strategic Management and Planning. 

National University 

The 54-credit online doctoral degree program provides students with a solid foundation in applied research concerning public administration, including its policies, principles, and practices. While there’s a research component, it’s geared more toward practical applications than theoretical implications.

Students in these doctoral programs will learn how to use research methods and literature to apply their knowledge. NU’s curriculum provides online learning students with skills to evaluate theories and practices in the field.

Doctor of Information Technology (D.I.T.)

The D.I.T. degree is a professional doctoral degree with a strong applied research orientation. Graduates of these programs can call themselves “Doctor” and attach the post-nominals “D.I.T.” to their names. This degree is at the same level as a Ph.D. in I.T., but the latter has a more theoretical framework. 

Concentrations for this online doctoral degree are available, including software engineering, information systems, and information security. Candidates for doctoral programs admission generally have bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in I.T. or related disciplines, a must since I.T. is also a specialized field.

The common requirements for completing this online doctoral degree are academic coursework, original research and dissertation with an oral defense, and comprehensive exam. 

Walden’s D.I.T. program requires its candidates to possess a master’s degree in information systems, information technology, or cybersecurity, among other related disciplines. For online doctoral degree candidates without a technical master’s degree, at least three years of relevant technical work experience must be admitted.

The concentrations offered are Applied Information Technology and Information Technology Leadership.

City University of Seattle 

521 Wall St., Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98121 (800) 426-5596/(206) 239-4500

When you complete the D.I.T. program at CityU, you can become a “change agent in the I.T. industry” due to your interdisciplinary training. This online doctoral degree is a 90-credit program designed for I.T. practitioners who want to gain advanced skillsets in educational technology and computing. The concentrations offered are Cybersecurity, Computer Science, and Data Science. 

Online doctoral degree students in this field get intensive training in various topics to prepare them for senior-level or executive-level positions in public and private sectors. The curriculum consists of up-to-date courses in cloud computing, data science, and artificial intelligence.

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Becoming a well-respected ministry researcher or professor can start with earning a Dmin degree from an accredited university. Aside from the well-paying jobs, graduates can also look forward to becoming influential religious leaders, religious counselors, founders of churches, and chaplains.

Most DMin programs allow their students to customize their program of study. Concentrations in these doctoral programs are aplenty, too, including: 

• Biblical Studies 
• Applied Theology 
• Children’s Ministry 
• Pastoral Counselling 
• Theological Research 

Duke University 

Duke Divinity School, 407 Chapel Drive, Duke Box #90968, Durham, NC 27708-0968 (919) 660-3400

Duke is among the world’s top research universities, and its enviable reputation extends to its Duke Divinity School, which offers a top-notch DMIn program. This is a hybrid online doctoral degree program with five-week-long, on-campus residential seminars over the three-year program’s duration. The residencies are complemented by eight-week periods.

In order to complete the DMin, practical ministry experience is combined with structured theological reflection. As the Scriptures and traditions of the church are studied alongside contemporary leadership theory and practice, the course grows an understanding of the nature, source, and characteristics of authentic Christian leadership .

Emory University 

DMin  

Rita Anne Rollins Building, 1531 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30322  (404) 727-6322

Offered at the Candler School of Theology, the DMin program consists of 32 credit hours that can be completed in three years. The hybrid delivery for this online doctoral degree means a combination of online instruction and on-campus residency, albeit short-term stays. The residency requirement consists of four stays, once for each year of the first two years and then twice in the third year. 

Experienced ministers are typical online doctoral degree students, and their training enables them to strengthen their understanding of the relationship between theology and ministry. Students choose between two concentrations – first, Church Leadership and Community Witness and Biblical Interpretation and Proclamation. The final capstone project in this online doctoral degree must combine academic study and practical applications in ministry. 

Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc)/Ph.D. in Health Sciences

The Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) and Ph.D. in Health Sciences are academic doctorate degrees that combine academic coursework, clinical practice, and research. Both doctoral programs also require master’s credentials and work experience for admission, and both can open career opportunities in academic and non-academic settings.

Due to their advanced nature, this online doctoral degree should lead to leadership or executive positions where high-level thinking abilities are a must. 

Bay Path University 

588 Longmeadow Street, Longmeadow, MA 01106 (800) 782-7284

Experienced practitioners in healthcare-related occupations who want to assume leadership roles in their fields find B.P.U.’s DHSc program an excellent credential. The intensive online doctoral degree training provides them with a new way of looking at real-world issues and finding viable solutions for these problems. 

Students pursuing doctorate degrees in this field must complete the requirements for 48 credits, or 16 courses, regardless of their chosen concentration. The available tracks in this online doctoral degree are: 

• Health Informatics Management
• Organizational Excellence in Healthcare
• Online Teaching
• Productive Aging
• Advanced Occupational Therapy Practice

University of South Dakota

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences

414 E. Clark Street, Vermillion, SD 57069 (877) 269-6837

The interprofessional Ph.D. in Health Sciences program prepares its students for leadership positions in health and human services, research, and the academe. Working professionals are at the heart of this online doctoral degree program, and candidates must have sufficient relevant experience to be considered for admission. 

The doctoral programs have four core components – teaching, scholarship, leadership, and advanced practice. Students in this online doctoral degree benefit from the convenience of online course delivery with minimal residency requirements.

Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.)/Ph.D. in Social Work  

Professionals with a doctorate in social work, whether a Ph.D. or a doctoral degree, as well as several years of experience and state licensure, have more rewarding career opportunities. Their advanced skillset is the most qualified for executive-level positions in organizations, including schools, non-profits, and research firms. 

The common courses in Ph.D. and doctorate of social work programs include:

• Social science theories 
• Advanced research methods and statistics 
• Teaching in higher education programs 
• Grant writing
• Social welfare policy and practice analysis 

University of Buffalo

685 Baldy Hall, Buffalo, New York 14260 (716) 645-3381

The 39-credit D.S.W. doctorate program welcomes experienced licensed social workers with a master’s degree in social work or a related discipline who want to improve their career opportunities. Students can choose to be on full-time or part-time enrollment; if you choose the latter, you can finish the program in three years or seven semesters.

Doctoral programs candidates must have access to willing clients or client populations as part of the admission process. This online doctoral degree is based on U.B.’s trauma-informed and human rights viewpoint. The online coursework includes organizational characteristics, concepts in implementation science, and technology and human behavior. 

Baylor University 

Ph.D. in Social Work  

811 Washington Ave., Waco, TX 76701 (254) 710-6400

Graduates of Baylor’s Ph.D. in Social Work program have an excellent shot at becoming leaders and educators in the field of social work. Baylor provides top-notch training that transforms them into visionary leaders and educators!

The coursework for this online doctoral degree includes research and analysis methods, leadership and administration, and religious and cultural diversity. Even the faculty is actively involved in research, ranging from child welfare and adoption to grief and loss. Upon earning this online doctoral degree, you will be prepared to pursue licensure as a social worker.

Doctorate Degrees Types 

The Doctor of Philosophy are research-oriented doctorate degrees, emphasizing original research, evaluation of theory, and data analysis. These are designed for professionals in pursuit of knowledge, including theoretical and applied research activities. The common Ph.D. programs include: 

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Doctor of Arts (D.A.)
• Doctor of Business Management (Ph.D.)
• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
• Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)

All Ph.D. or doctoral programs have dissertation requirements due to the emphasis on new research. The final stage is the oral defense before a committee or panel.

Professional doctoral programs are also known as the terminal doctorate or the applied doctorate offering practical solutions or effective practices in response to complex issues.

Who Should Pursue An Online Doctorate Program

Students who pursue professional doctorate programs typically include those who want to: 

• Pursue career advancement 
• Establish teaching authority or credibility 
• Meet the professional requirements for executive-level jobs in the corporate world 
• Build a consultancy business 

The most common professional doctorate degrees include: 

• Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
• Doctor of Professional Studies – Instructional Design Leadership
• Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.)
• Doctor of Healthcare Administration (D.H.A.)
• Doctor of Finance (D.P.H.)

Unlike Ph.D. programs, professional doctorate programs may or may not have a dissertation requirement. Each is a online doctoral degree that isn’t academia-focused post-graduate or doctoral programs but are instead programs that encourage doctoral students to tackle real-world issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

The answer depends on the chosen path of the doctoral student who opts for the online distance learning format. Doctorate degrees require between 60 and 120 semester credit hours, translating to approximately between 20 and 40 courses. In general, applied doctoral programs are at the 60 credit mark but nowhere near the 120-mark. But Ph.D. programs typically require 120 semester credit hours.

Applied doctoral programs can be earned in 4-6 years, while a Ph.D. may take eight. Doctoral students can decide on taking either a shorter or longer time depending on the online doctorate, your status as a student (part-time or full-time), and completion of graduation requirements.

Your total costs will depend on where the doctoral students are enrolled, what financial aid options you took, and your time spent.

The tuition and fees for an online doctoral degree vary depending on where you live. Schools may or may not have different rates for in-state and out-of-state students in online programs.

Doctoral students can spend between $11,900+ per year to upwards of $62,000 per year depending on the doctoral degrees being pursued. A financial aid program can help augment this burden.

Keep in mind that doctorate programs tend to have competitive admission requirements, such as:

• GRE or GMAT scores may be required depending on the program’s requirements
• Letters of recommendation 
• Portfolio/resume 
• Personal statement or essay 
• Official transcripts 
• Prerequisite courses 

Most doctoral programs also require candidate interviews, and evaluation for financial aid qualification. 

There are four stages of coursework in typical doctoral programs. 

• The research core in online doctorate programs consists of classes that establish your foundational skills in advanced writing, applied statistics, research methodology, and qualitative and quantitative research and analysis.
• The focus courses are specific to your course of studies.
• The electives in online doctoral programs teach skills that may or may not be specific to your chosen field.
• The dissertation is typically the last stage in doctoral programs.

Key Takeaways

Indeed, even the 20 easiest doctorate degrees offered online aren’t as easy as they sound! Doctoral students must submit themselves to the rigorous coursework of such doctoral programs, including class discussions, examinations, and research in an advanced degree.

Once you have achieved your online doctoral degree, you can call yourself a doctor and prove that you are an authority in your field. Pursue different career routes depending on your professional goals and the type of online doctoral degree programs you complete!

Malcolm Peralty Chief Editor

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The complete guide to getting into an economics PhD program

Back in May, Noah wrote about the amazingly good deal that is the PhD in economics. Why? Because:

• You get a job.
• You get autonomy.
• You get intellectual fulfillment.
• The risk is low.
• Unlike an MBA, law, or medical degree, you don’t have to worry about paying the sticker price for an econ PhD:  After the first year, most schools will give you teaching assistant positions that will pay for the next several years of graduate study, and some schools will take care of your tuition and expenses even in the first year. (See Miles’s companion post  for more about costs of graduate study and how econ PhD’s future earnings makes it worthwhile, even if you can’t get a full ride.)

Of course, such a good deal won’t last long now that the story is out, so you need to act fast! Since he wrote his post , Noah has received a large number of emails asking the obvious follow-up question: “How do I get into an econ PhD program?” And Miles has been asked the same thing many times by undergraduates and other students at the University of Michigan. So here, we present together our guide for how to break into the academic Elysium called Econ PhD Land:

(Note: This guide is mainly directed toward native English speakers, or those from countries whose graduate students are typically fluent in English, such as India and most European countries. Almost all highly-ranked graduate programs teach economics in English, and we find that students learn the subtle non-mathematical skills in economics better if English is second nature. If your nationality will make admissions committees wonder about your English skills, you can either get your bachelor’s degree at a—possibly foreign—college or university where almost all classes are taught in English, or you will have to compensate by being better on other dimensions. On the bright side, if you are a native English speaker, or from a country whose graduate students are typically fluent in English, you are already ahead in your quest to get into an economics PhD.)

Here is the not-very-surprising list of things that will help you get into a good econ PhD program:

• good grades, especially in whatever math and economics classes you take,
• a good score on the math GRE,
• some math classes and a statistics class on your transcript,
• research experience, and definitely at least one letter of recommendation from a researcher,
• a demonstrable interest in the field of economics.

Chances are, if you’re asking for advice, you probably feel unprepared in one of two ways. Either you don’t have a sterling math background, or you have quantitative skills but are new to the field of econ. Fortunately, we have advice for both types of applicant.

If you’re weak in math…

Fortunately, if you’re weak in math, we have good news:  Math is something you can learn . That may sound like a crazy claim to most Americans, who are raised to believe that math ability is in the genes. It may even sound like arrogance coming from two people who have never had to struggle with math. But we’ve both taught people math for many years, and we really believe that it’s true. Genes help a bit, but math is like a foreign language or a sport: effort will result in skill.

Here are the math classes you absolutely should take to get into a good econ program:

• Linear algebra
• Multivariable calculus

Here are the classes you should take, but can probably get away with studying on your own:

• Ordinary differential equations
• Real analysis

Linear algebra (matrices, vectors, and all that) is something that you’ll use all the time in econ, especially when doing work on a computer. Multivariable calculus also will be used a lot. And stats of course is absolutely key to almost everything economists do. Differential equations are something you will use once in a while. And real analysis—by far the hardest subject of the five—is something that you will probably never use in real econ research, but which the economics field has decided to use as a sort of general intelligence signaling device.

If you took some math classes but didn’t do very well, don’t worry.  Retake the classes . If you are worried about how that will look on your transcript, take the class the first time “off the books” at a different college (many community colleges have calculus classes) or online. Or if you have already gotten a bad grade, take it a second time off the books and then a third time for your transcript. If you work hard, every time you take the class you’ll do better. You will learn the math and be able to prove it by the grade you get. Not only will this help you get into an econ PhD program, once you get in, you’ll breeze through parts of grad school that would otherwise be agony.

Here’s another useful tip:  Get a book and study math on your own before taking the corresponding class for a grade. Reading math on your own is something you’re going to have to get used to doing in grad school anyway (especially during your dissertation!), so it’s good to get used to it now. Beyond course-related books, you can either pick up a subject-specific book (Miles learned much of his math from studying books in the Schaum’s outline series ), or get a “math for economists” book; regarding the latter, Miles recommends Mathematics for Economists  by Simon and Blume, while Noah swears by Mathematical Methods and Models for Economists  by de la Fuente. When you study on your own, the most important thing is to  work through a bunch of problems . That will give you practice for test-taking, and will be more interesting than just reading through derivations.

This will take some time, of course. That’s OK. That’s what summer is for (right?). If you’re late in your college career, you can always take a fifth year, do a gap year, etc.

When you get to grad school, you will have to take an intensive math course called “math camp” that will take up a good part of your summer. For how to get through math camp itself, see this guide by Jérémie Cohen-Setton .

One more piece of advice for the math-challenged:  Be a research assistant on something non-mathy . There are lots of economists doing relatively simple empirical work that requires only some basic statistics knowledge and the ability to use software like Stata. There are more and more experimental economists around, who are always looking for research assistants. Go find a prof and get involved! (If you are still in high school or otherwise haven’t yet chosen a college, you might want to choose one where some of the professors do experiments and so need research assistants—something that is easy to figure out by studying professors’ websites carefully, or by asking about it when you visit the college.)

If you’re new to econ…

If you’re a disillusioned physicist, a bored biostatistician, or a neuroscientist looking to escape that evil  Principal Investigator, don’t worry:  An econ background is not necessary . A lot of the best economists started out in other fields, while a lot of undergrad econ majors are headed for MBAs or jobs in banks. Econ PhD programs know this. They will probably not mind if you have never taken an econ class.

That said, you may still want to  take an econ class , just to verify that you actually like the subject, to start thinking about econ, and to prepare yourself for the concepts you’ll encounter. If you feel like doing this, you can probably skip Econ 101 and 102, and head straight for an Intermediate Micro or Intermediate Macro class.

Another good thing is to  read through an econ textbook . Although economics at the PhD level is mostly about the math and statistics and computer modeling (hopefully getting back to the real world somewhere along the way when you do your own research), you may also want to get the flavor of the less mathy parts of economics from one of the well-written lower-level textbooks (either one by Paul Krugman and Robin Wells , Greg Mankiw , or Tyler Cowen and Alex Tabarrok ) and maybe one at a bit higher level as well, such as David Weil’s excellent book on economic growth ) or Varian’s Intermediate Microeconomics .

Remember to take a statistics class , if you haven’t already. Some technical fields don’t require statistics, so you may have missed this one. But to econ PhD programs, this will be a gaping hole in your resume. Go take stats!

One more thing you can do is research with an economist . Fortunately, economists are generally extremely welcoming to undergrad RAs from outside econ, who often bring extra skills. You’ll get great experience working with data if you don’t have it already. It’ll help you come up with some research ideas to put in your application essays. And of course you’ll get another all-important letter of recommendation.

And now for…

General tips for everyone

Here is the most important tip for everyone:  Don’t just apply to “top” schools . For some degrees—an MBA for example—people question whether it’s worthwhile to go to a non-top school. But for econ departments, there’s no question. Both Miles and Noah have marveled at the number of smart people working at non-top schools. That includes some well-known bloggers, by the way—Tyler Cowen teaches at George Mason University (ranked 64th ), Mark Thoma teaches at the University of Oregon (ranked 56th ), and Scott Sumner teaches at Bentley, for example. Additionally, a flood of new international students is expanding the supply of quality students. That means that the number of high-quality schools is increasing; tomorrow’s top 20 will be like today’s top 10, and tomorrow’s top 100 will be like today’s top 50.

Apply to schools outside of the top 20—any school in the top 100 is worth considering, especially if it is strong in areas you are interested in. If your classmates aren’t as elite as you would like, that just means that you will get more attention from the professors, who almost all came out of top programs themselves. When Noah said in his earlier post that econ PhD students are virtually guaranteed to get jobs in an econ-related field, that applied to schools far down in the ranking. Everyone participates in the legendary centrally managed econ job market . Very few people ever fall through the cracks.

Next—and this should go without saying— don’t be afraid to retake the GRE . If you want to get into a top 10 school, you probably need a perfect or near-perfect score on the math portion of the GRE. For schools lower down the rankings, a good GRE math score is still important. Fortunately, the GRE math section is relatively simple to study for—there are only a finite number of topics covered, and with a little work you can “overlearn” all of them, so you can do them even under time pressure and when you are nervous. In any case, you can keep retaking the test until you get a good score (especially if the early tries are practice tests from the GRE prep books and prep software), and then you’re OK!

Here’s one thing that may surprise you: Getting an econ master’s degree alone won’t help . Although master’s degrees in economics are common among international students who apply to econ PhD programs, American applicants do just fine without a master’s degree on their record. If you want that extra diploma, realize that once you are in a PhD program, you will get a master’s degree automatically after two years. And if you end up dropping out of the PhD program, that master’s degree will be worth more than a stand-alone master’s would. The one reason to get a master’s degree is if it can help you remedy a big deficiency in your record, say not having taken enough math or stats classes, not having taken any econ classes, or not having been able to get anyone whose name admissions committees would recognize to write you a letter of recommendation.

For getting into grad school, much more valuable than a master’s is a stint as a research assistant in the Federal Reserve System or at a think tank —though these days, such positions can often be as hard to get into as a PhD program!

Finally—and if you’re reading this, chances are you’re already doing this— read some econ blogs . (See Miles’s speculations about the future of the econ blogosphere here .) Econ blogs are no substitute for econ classes, but they’re a great complement. Blogs are good for picking up the lingo of academic economists, and learning to think like an economist. Don’t be afraid to  write  a blog either, even if no one ever reads it (you don’t have to be writing at the same level as Evan Soltas or Yichuan Wang );  you can still put it on your CV, or just practice writing down your thoughts. And when you write your dissertation, and do research later on in your career, you are going to have to think for yourself outside the context of a class . One way to practice thinking critically is by critiquing others’ blog posts, at least in your head.

Anyway, if you want to have intellectual stimulation and good work-life balance, and a near-guarantee of a well-paying job in your field of interest, an econ PhD could be just the thing for you. Don’t be scared of the math and the jargon. We’d love to have you.

Update:  Miles’s colleague Jeff Smith at the University of Michigan amplifies many of the things we say on his blog.  For a  complete  guide, be sure to see what Jeff has to say, too.

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7 “Easiest” Types of Doctor to Become + How to Get There

What’s covered:, how to become a doctor, least competitive medical specialties, best pre-med schools.

Becoming a doctor is not an easy task. It involves hard work, extensive preparation, and a certain level of intensity. That being said, there are some specialties that are more or less competitive than others.

In this post, we’ll go over the steps to becoming a doctor, including the process of specializing. We’ll also rank the “easiest” types of doctor to become and what each of those specialties entails.

High School

If you can’t be pre-med in high school, how do you prepare for your future medical career? The answer is to strategically navigate the college application and admissions process. Keep your goal of becoming a doctor in mind as you decide which universities to apply to. You will want to consider the rigor of each school’s science classes, the effectiveness of pre-med advising, how research would factor into your college career, whether hospitals are accessible, and the financial viability of each university.

Undergraduate Studies

Your time in college is critical to your medical career because your undergraduate years are when you complete your pre-med requirements and bolster your medical school application. Medical school has extensive requirements to be completed as part of your undergraduate studies. These requirements generally include multiple semesters of biology, physics, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and math.

While you do need to complete all the pre-med prerequisites to apply to medical school, medical schools will also heavily consider your success on the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) in their decisions. Preparing for the MCAT should be high on your priority list during your undergraduate studies.

Medical School

In medical school, you will have intensive coursework in a variety of subjects—including anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, and more—which will be supplemented by hands-on experience. This includes exploring different specialties through clinical rotations so that you can confidently select your specialty when applying for residency.

After finishing medical school, you will be a doctor (sort of)! You will still need to spend three to seven years working as a resident under more experienced doctors. This is where you will become an expert in your specialty. You must pass a board exam in your specialty before you can begin practicing on your own.

Learn more about the steps to becoming a doctor in our blog post.

When Do Doctors Specialize?

During the first two years of medical school, students do preclinical training and are advised to keep an open mind toward different specialties. In the same way that undergraduates have the freedom to change their major early in their college career, medical students are not locked into their specialty right away.

Usually, at the beginning of the third year of medical school, students start clinical rotations. This is when students shadow physicians and residents, interact with patients, and see the applications of their coursework. You can choose to clerk for doctors in different areas, such as general surgery, gynecology, internal medicine, or orthopedics. Some people also view clinical rotations as networking opportunities and informal interviews.

Clinical rotations exert a major influence on the specialties chosen by medical students. Sometimes they reinforce the long-standing desires of students, and other times they expose students to new and interesting paths. When doing rotations, it’s important to think about what you want to get out of your job and what you want to achieve during your future career. Some factors that influence a doctor’s specialty choice include:

• Work-life balance
• Income expectations
• Personality of other doctors in a particular specialty
• Length of residency
• Amount of contact with patients
• Time in a hospital vs. time in an office
• Competitiveness

When applying for your residency, you finally decide on your specialty. Residency applications are typically submitted in the fall of your fourth year of medical school. If you need more time to decide your specialty, there are subinternship opportunities, or you can take an extra year.

Competitiveness is often rated as an important factor for students who are deciding on their specialty. Using the average United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 scores —which assess the foundational medical knowledge of medical school students—and the average number of abstracts, publications, and presentations of first-year residents by specialty in 2020-21, we’ve created a list of least competitive specialties.

1. Family Medicine

Average Step 1 Score: 216.1

Average Number of Publications: 2.8

Family medicine practitioners are trained in pediatrics and adult care (including gynecology and gastroenterology) so that they can treat every member of the family. Their work involves comprehensive care and requires an understanding of most ailments. Family medicine doctors typically engage more in office-based work—such as “well” and “sick” visits—than hospital-based work.

2. Psychiatry

Average Step 1 Score: 223.1

Average Number of Publications: 5.0

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders, as well as substance abuse disorders. Diagnosis typically involves conversations with patients and common treatments include psychotherapy and medication.

3. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Average Step 1 Score: 224.2

Average Number of Publications: 4.7

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians work with patients who have physical impairments or disabilities (from disease, condition, or injury) to improve their ability to function and their quality of life. PM&R uses physical therapy and pain management, and it attempts to avoid surgical operations whenever possible.

4. Pediatrics

Average Step 1 Score: 226.4

Pediatricians focus on children exclusively. They are concerned with the variety of physical, mental, social, and behavioral health factors that affect children until the age of 18. Pediatricians must understand the typical development of children to ensure that their patients are developing healthily.

5. Emergency Medicine

Average Step 1 Score: 231.1

Average Number of Publications: 3.9

Emergency medicine doctors treat patients in the emergency room. EM doctors are truly the jack of all trades, as they see a wide range of patients, ranging from people with everyday illnesses to trauma victims.

6. Internal Medicine (Categorical)

Average Step 1 Score: 231.4

Average Number of Publications: 5.2

Internal medicine exclusively focuses on adults and adult health conditions. These physicians—called internists—prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases and conditions that affect any part of the adult body. They are involved in health maintenance and disease screening, and they often make referrals to other specialists.

7. Anesthesiology

Average Step 1 Score: 232.7

Average Number of Publications: 5.3

Anesthesiologists specialize in the administration of anesthetics during surgeries and other procedures. They help to ensure that you feel a minimal amount of pain or remain asleep during operations. Anesthesiologists can also provide pain relief and care outside of the operating room to patients with chronic conditions such as cancer.

If you are interested in any of these specialties, or any others, check out CollegeVine’s comprehensive review of medical specialties , which includes details about each specialty’s duties and salaries.

It’s a common misconception that pre-med is a major—at most schools, it is actually a “track” that students follow to fulfill the prerequisites for applying to medical school. Find out more about pre-med requirements here .

Some colleges that are known for their pre-med advising, access to medical opportunities, rigorous STEM courses, and high medical school acceptance rates include:

1. Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 13,100

Acceptance Rate: 4%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1580 SAT/33-36 ACT

Graduating from a prestigious and historic institution like Harvard is sure to give a boost to any student’s odds of getting into medical school. A 2013 article from The Harvard Crimson estimates that 17% of a given Harvard class will apply to medical school, and in 2012, Harvard pre-med applicants with a 3.5 GPA or higher had a 93% acceptance rate to medical school.

There are a variety of resources available to Harvard pre-med students. The school’s Office of Career Services provides advisors for students pursuing health-related fields, and publishes a newsletter containing information about items like upcoming workshops and medical school visits. There are also a number of groups that are beneficial to students interested in medical careers, including the Harvard Pre-Medical Society and Harvard Alumni in Healthcare .

2. Duke University

Location: Durhan, NC

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,000

Acceptance Rate: 5.8%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1490-1560 SAT/33-35 ACT

While Duke doesn’t offer a specific pre-med path, it does provide all the classes required for students who are planning on applying to medical school—and it even suggests courses for students interested in health-related careers. Duke also offers advisors especially focused on assisting pre-health students. According to Duke , between 70% and 80% of its students are accepted into medical school—a considerably higher percentage than the national average.

Outside of the classroom, students will find numerous opportunities to prepare themselves for a career in medicine, from conducting research to volunteering at local hospitals and health centers to shadowing healthcare professionals. On campus, students will also find groups that support pre-med students, such as the American Medical Women’s Association and Duke Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students .

3. University of Pennsylvania | UPenn

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Undergrad Enrollment: 13,000

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1570 SAT/33-35 ACT

There are a lot of qualities that attract pre-med students to UPenn, such as its Ivy League bona fides and access to the Perelman School of Medicine—founded in 1765, it’s the oldest medical school in the country. Another attractive factor of UPenn is the acceptance of its students into medical school; 82% of UPenn students and alumni who applied to begin medical school in 2022 were accepted—that’s nearly twice the national average (43%)!

UPenn accommodates a broad swath of pre-med students. Its Pre-Health Core Studies program is aimed at helping students with little scientific background get up to speed, while its Pre-Health Specialized Studies program can help students with scientific backgrounds bolster their academic credentials and become more competitive medical school candidates. 

UPenn offers pre-health advising from professionals with significant healthcare, life-science research, and higher education experience who can assist students with everything from course selection to application preparation to interviewing.

4. Washington University in St. Louis | WashU

Location: St. Louis, MO

More students apply to medical school from WashU than from any other college on this list—a staggering 372 WashU students applied to medical school in 2022-2023. It’s not just that WashU generates a lot of applicants; it also has successful applicants—between 2017 and 2021, their first-time acceptance rate to medical school was 76% .

The MedPrep Program is unique to WashU. This two-part program begins with a lecture series detailing the educational pathway to becoming a doctor and concludes with students getting real-world experience in medicine by shadowing for four hours every other week at the Charles F. Knight Emergency and Trauma Center of Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

WashU provides an abundance of research opportunities to pre-med students as well as programs like the Washington University Biology Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program (BioSURF) , which offers an excellent way to improve your med school application while earning funding.

5. Rice University

Location: Houston, TX

Undergrad Enrollment: 4,300

Acceptance Rate: 9.48%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1490-1570 SAT/34-35 ACT

Rice University is an extremely popular destination for students with an interest in pursuing health-related careers— between 30% and 40% of incoming students indicate an interest in pre-health studies . Helping push Rice to the top of many pre-med students’ lists is its proximity to the Texas Medical Center , the world’s largest medical complex, which is home to the world’s largest children’s hospital and world’s largest cancer hospital.

Rice pre-med students will find no shortage of support on campus. Specialized advising is available to pre-health students and offers guidance on everything from course selection to applying to medical school. The Rice Pre-Medical Society (RPMS) is an undergraduate organization that provides resources, advice, and opportunities to students interested in health professions. The RPMS also provides the Big Owl/Little Owl Program (BOP) , which connects Rice undergraduates with medical students, physicians, and residents.

6. Stanford University

Location: Stanford, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,800

Acceptance Rate: 3.6%

• 94.4% scored between 1400 and 1600 on the SAT
• 96.1% scored between 30 and 36 on the ACT

Graduating from a prestigious college like Stanford is a feather in the cap of any student hoping to attend medical school. Stanford doesn’t have a pre-med major (like most colleges), but it does provide extensive resources for students interested in health-related careers.

The college provides pre-med advisors to assist students in picking out courses, planning for long-term objectives, and gaining valuable experience. In autumn, the former Assistant Director of Admissions at Stanford University School of Medicine makes herself available to meet with students to discuss the medical school application process, school selection, and preparation for interviews.

Pre-med students at Stanford will find a myriad of application-boosting opportunities on and off campus, from physician shadowing to volunteering to research.

7. Northwestern University

Location: Evanston, IL

Undergrad Enrollment: 9,900

Acceptance Rate: 6.9%

SAT/ACT: 1490-1550 SAT/33-35 ACT

In recent years, Northwestern has sent students on to some of the best medical schools in the nation , including Harvard, NYU, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, and UPenn. The college provides Health Professions Advising (HPA), which assists students in understanding the various pathways to medical school, required courses, and the application process. Also helping Northwestern students on the path to a career in health-related fields is the Pre-Health Professional Student Group , which is dedicated to the successful admission of its members into programs that lead to careers in medicine, health, and veterinary practice.

The Northwestern Undergraduate Premedical Scholars Program (NUPSP) is a program unique to Northwestern. The program provides early MD acceptance to Northwestern students who have completed two full years of undergraduate study and are committed to attending Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. NUPSP doesn’t require students to take the MCAT examination and accepts between six and eight students annually.

8. Brown University

Location: Providence, RI

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,100

Acceptance Rate: 5.5%

SAT/ACT: 1470-1550 SAT/33-35 ACT

Between 130 and 150 Brown students and recent graduates apply to medical school annually and frequently boast acceptance rates of over 80% . In 2021, 81% of Brown students and recent graduates gained acceptance into medical school. Brown offers healthcare career advising, along with health career peer advisors (HCPA) who offer first-year students the opportunity to speak with current undergraduates about their experience as health career students.

Brown is most notable for its Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME)—an eight-year program that combines an undergraduate degree with medical school—and the only program of its kind in the Ivy League. Nearly one-third (32%) of Brown’s Warren Alpert Medical School class of 2026 were admitted through the PLME program . Students enter the PLME program directly from high school and can pursue undergraduate degrees in a wide variety of fields ranging from the sciences to the humanities.

9. Amherst College

Location: Amherst, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 1,800

Acceptance Rate: 7.2%

SAT/ACT: 1450-1520 SAT/33-34 ACT

The only liberal arts school on our list, Amherst College has a proven track record of getting its students into medical school—on average, the college enjoys between a 75% and 80% acceptance rate .

The school provides pre-health advising and mentoring throughout a student’s undergraduate years and beyond. Amherst College emphasizes a holistic approach to pre-med paths, encouraging students to follow their interests and be themselves rather than merely checking boxes on the track to a medical career.

Amherst College supports pre-med students in a number of ways, like publishing pre-health guides and a bi-weekly newsletter, hosting small group advising sessions, and providing mentors. It also offers a variety of research, volunteer, and physician shadowing opportunities.

10. Case Western Reserve University

Location: Cleveland, OH

Undergrad Enrollment: 5,500

Acceptance Rate: 27%

SAT/ACT: 1420-1520 SAT/32-33 ACT

Nationally ranked hospitals within walking distance, easy access to healthcare professionals, and an abundance of available research opportunities are just a few factors that attract pre-med students to Case Western. Another impressive advantage of a Case Western education is the 64% medical school acceptance rate its undergraduates have enjoyed over the last five years—significantly higher than the 42% national average. Recent graduates have matriculated at top medical schools like Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and NYU.

The Pre-Professional Scholars Program (PPSP) is something that catches the eye of many pre-med students. Up to 20 first-year applicants annually are accepted into this extremely competitive eight-year program, in which students earn an undergraduate degree and go on to study at the School of Medicine. Just how hard is it to get into the PPSP? In 2021, Forbes reported it had an acceptance rate of just 1% !

View more top pre-med schools to get an idea of where you might want to apply. And to get an idea of your chances of admission at various universities, we recommend using our free admissions calculator . By inputting your grades, extracurriculars, and more, we’ll estimate your odds of acceptance, and help you improve your candidate profile.

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DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

• Undergraduate
• Graduate Studies in Psychology
• Areas of Specialization
• Considering Clinical Psychology

What Does It Take to Get Into Graduate School in Clinical Psychology?

Admission to PhD programs in clinical psychology is very competitive. Ratios of 300 applicants to 8 positions are common (though perhaps 10-15 people would have to be accepted to fill the 8 slots; some who are accepted decide to go elsewhere, or enter a different kind of graduate or professional program ). Different programs emphasize different characteristics, but it is safe to say that in all programs GREs and GPAs are examined closely. Graduate students in Northwestern's program have averaged over 1400 on the GRE (Verbal plus Quantitative), with an average GPA of over 3.5. (GPAs for the last two years of undergraduate schooling are most important, so students with uneven early records have a good chance if they've improved.) There are respectable programs whose students score lower on these measures, but students who have lower than 1200 on the GRE or a GPA of less than 3.3 can expect to find it difficult to get into a top graduate program in clinical psychology without other special qualifications.

Regarding less standardized criteria, most graduate programs in clinical psychology will prefer that you have taken a course in psychopathology, e.g., our Psych 303. Introduction to Clinical Psychology (Psych 306) can also be useful, in part as a way to learn more about the field and your options within it. Most graduate schools also expect students to have obtained some research experience. The primary concern is that students should have conducted some psychological research in order to know whether they find it interesting. From an admissions perspective, it is less important that you have had clinical research experience than it is that you have had meaningful research experiences (e.g., not just entering data). It is also important that you be able to solicit a letter of recommendation from at least one research supervisor. This means that it is important to get involved in research before you do your applications. If you plan to apply to graduate programs during fall of your senior year, then you should begin your research involvement as a junior, or even earlier.

Northwestern’s psychology department offers many  research opportunities  for undergraduate students. Each quarter, many of our students do  research for course credit  through 399-Independent Study or the two-quarter sequence 397-Advanced Supervised Research. You can learn more about 399 and 397, including their requirements and the differences between them, by reading our webpage on research for course credit. This page also includes tips on choosing a professor with whom to do research. Other students obtain paid positions in the department, typically through the federal  work-study program . You should make sure that your research experience provides you with an in-depth look at the nature of psychological research and at the theories and past research relevant for the questions under investigation. Entering data, scheduling research participants, and so on are integral parts of the research process, but it is important to do much more than that.

Some psychology students hope to do research that is outside the specific projects for which their faculty supervisors have funding. In addition, students who want to do research on campus during the summer may need to earn money for living expenses. Northwestern University, Weinberg College, and the psychology department all have funds available on a competitive basis to support student research. Guidelines for applying for the psychology department’s Benton J. Underwood Summer Fellowship are always included in the winter edition of our undergraduate newsletter,  Swift Thinking . See the Weinberg College webpage on  funds for undergraduate research  and the university page on  Research Opportunities for Undergraduates  for additional funding options.

Many graduate schools give a great deal of consideration to the likely match between potential students' interests and faculty interests. Students can convey their interests through the personal statements they include in their applications and in direct contact with relevant professors. If you have strong interests in a professor's research, this will make you a much more desirable applicant to that person. But you must be able to convey that your interests are serious, for example, by discussing a specific study. Faculty will not be impressed if it appears that you merely scanned the departmental brochure searching for topics that sound interesting.

Students may also want to consider trying some hands-on counseling-type work. Many agencies accept and train volunteers. For example, volunteering at a teen drop-in center or a hospital, working as a camp counselor for special needs children, and answering phones for a helpline can all be relevant experiences. If your goal is to work with some specific population – troubled teens, the elderly, autistic children – then you should try to gain some firsthand experience with this population. In part, this may serve as a valuable credential when you apply for graduate training. Perhaps more importantly, it will let you know if working with this population is as rewarding for you as you expect it to be. Two student groups –  Northwestern Community Development Corps (NCDC)  and  OASIS  – are good sources of information about volunteer opportunities in Evanston and surrounding communities

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• Easiest Doctor to Become – 10 Easiest Medical Specialties to Get Into
• Blog & News
• Medical Field Careers

After making the decision to embark on the significant journey of becoming a doctor, you’ll have to determine what type of doctor you want to become from a variety of options. Each area in the medical field requires specific skills, years of rigorous education, and hands-on training. This variability in requirements among different specialties leads to varying levels o f difficulty in becoming a doctor . When discussing which is the “easiest doctor to become,” it’s important to distinguish between stepping into a field and excelling in it. Aspiring medical professionals should consider their interests and long-term goals when picking a specialty. What might seem easy to get into may be challenging for long-term success and satisfaction. This thoughtful approach helps individuals choose a medical path that aligns with their passion and professional aspirations, which makes for the easiest doctor to become.

What Is a Doctor?

In the broadest sense, a doctor is a highly trained and skilled healthcare professional responsible for diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses and injuries. The role of a doctor extends beyond the clinical realm, often involving effective communication with patients, collaboration with fellow healthcare professionals, and a commitment to continuous learning.

To become a doctor, individuals undergo extensive education and training that equip doctors with the necessary medical knowledge, practical expertise, and critical thinking abilities to make informed decisions in the complex and dynamic healthcare field. 

How to Become a Doctor?

Becoming a doctor involves several key steps. First, individuals pursue a bachelor’s degree, which takes around four years. Following this, they attend medical school for an additional four years to gain in-depth medical knowledge. Post-graduation, they enter a residency program ranging from three to seven years, contingent on the chosen specialty. Residency provides hands-on training in a clinical setting. Afterward, they may also follow a fellowship training program to gain comprehensive knowledge in a particular field of medicine. Subsequently, doctors must obtain a medical license by passing the required exams. This concise journey encompasses the educational and training phases necessary for a fulfilling medical career. 

Easiest Doctor to Become

Exploring the “easiest doctor to become” centers on the relative ease of the time commitment and training required. Labeling specialties as easy doesn’t diminish importance or skills but considers overall effort in education and training. This categorization doesn’t imply a difficulty hierarchy either but recognizes diverse pathways in the medical field, each demanding unique skills. That being said, choosing a specialty should align with an individual’s interests and career goals for a fulfilling professional journey.

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R)

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) is a medical specialty that focuses on enhancing and restoring functional abilities and the quality of life for individuals with physical impairments or disabilities. Physiatrists work with a diverse range of patients, including those recovering from injuries, individuals with chronic pain, and those with neurological disorders such as spinal cord injuries or stroke survivors. Also known as physiatry, physical medicine involves a holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing non-surgical treatments to address musculoskeletal, neurological, and other medical conditions. They aim to optimize patient function and improve well-being through medical interventions, rehabilitation therapies, and lifestyle modifications. 

One aspect of this specialty worth noting is the relatively shorter residency period compared to other medical fields, typically lasting three years. 

Emergency medicine

Emergency medicine is a dynamic and fast-paced medical specialty that involves the immediate assessment and treatment of acute illnesses and injuries. Characterized by the unpredictable nature of emergencies, emergency physicians are trained to make rapid, critical decisions in high-stress situations. 

One distinctive feature of emergency medicine is the comparatively shorter residency period, typically lasting three to four years, allowing practitioners to swiftly acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. Moreover, emergency medicine offers flexible work schedules, often providing opportunities for varied shifts. This flexibility in work schedules allows emergency physicians to manage various cases that may arise at any time, including trauma cases, cardiac events, and infectious diseases. In general, emergency medicine is a dynamic field that attracts those who thrive in a challenging and unpredictable working environment.

Family medicine

Family medicine is a comprehensive and versatile medical specialty that emphasizes providing primary care across all age groups. By choosing to become a family medicine doctor , individuals enter a field that emphasizes continuity of care and addresses the diverse healthcare needs of individuals and families across their lifespan. A notable aspect of family medicine is its broad scope, making family physicians adept at managing diverse medical needs within the context of the family unit. A family medicine residency program is shorter than some other specialties, typically spanning three years, allowing practitioners to gain proficiency quickly. 

Family medicine doctors have the opportunity to work in various settings, from private practices to community clinics and even rural healthcare facilities, enhancing their adaptability. Additionally, there are an array of family medicine subspecialties , allowing practitioners to focus on specific areas such as sports medicine, geriatrics, or obstetrics. This tailoring of expertise allows them to address the unique needs of their patients.

Internal medicine

Internal medicine is a medical specialty centered on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases in adults. Internists are crucial in managing various complex medical conditions affecting adults. The residency training for internal medicine typically spans three years, during which internists develop expertise in different medical areas. 

Addressing the query “ What does an internist do ,” these physicians are skilled in managing chronic and acute illnesses, emphasizing a comprehensive and patient-centered approach. Internal medicine offers diverse career paths, allowing practitioners to choose roles in primary care, hospital medicine, or specialized fields. This adaptability within the specialty enables internists to contribute significantly to adult healthcare across various clinical settings.

Pathology is a medical specialty that plays a critical role in diagnosing diseases by examining tissues, organs, and bodily fluids. Pathologists analyze the structural and functional changes in cells and tissues to determine the nature and extent of diseases. To become a pathologist , individuals typically undergo a relatively shorter residency training program than other medical specialties, often lasting three to four years. 

Unlike some clinical fields, pathology involves limited direct patient interaction, as pathologists primarily work in laboratories, utilizing advanced technologies to study specimens and provide crucial diagnostic insights to healthcare teams. This specialty is integral to the healthcare system, contributing significantly to accurately identifying and understanding various medical conditions.

Pediatrics is a medical field dedicated to the health and well-being of children. Pediatricians are dedicated to ensuring the optimal physical, cognitive, and emotional growth and development of infants, children, and adolescents. Addressing the question “ What does a pediatrician do, ” these healthcare professionals focus on preventive care for children, early detection of developmental issues, and managing childhood illnesses. 

Pediatric residency typically spans three years, during which doctors gain specialized training in caring for young patients. One notable aspect of pediatrics is the emphasis on family-centered care, as pediatricians work closely with parents and guardians to promote a collaborative and supportive approach to a child’s healthcare. This interaction fosters comprehensive healthcare management and addresses pediatric medicine’s unique challenges and joys.

Psychiatry is a medical specialty dedicated to understanding and treating mental health challenges, emphasizing the intricate connection between mind and body. Psychiatrists play a vital role in assessing, diagnosing, and managing a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, ranging from mood disorders to psychotic disorders. 

To become a psychiatrist , individuals typically undergo a relatively shorter residency program than some surgical specialties, usually lasting four years. This focused training equips psychiatrists with the skills to employ various therapeutic interventions, including psychotherapy, medications, and other holistic approaches, to help individuals achieve mental well-being. Psychiatrists contribute significantly to destigmatizing mental health issues, promoting awareness, and providing essential support to individuals navigating the complexities of their mental health journey.

Anesthesiology

Anesthesiology holds a pivotal role in the field of medicine, with anesthesiologists playing a critical role in surgical procedures. These specialized doctors are responsible for administering anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort, and monitoring vital signs throughout surgeries. To become an anesthesiologist, individuals typically undergo a relatively shorter residency than some surgical specialties, typically lasting four years. 

The expertise of anesthesiologists lies not only in administering the appropriate type and amount of anesthesia but also in managing potential complications and ensuring patients remain stable and pain-free during the entirety of the surgical process. Their precise and vigilant care is essential for establishing a safe and controlled environment in the operating room, contributing significantly to the success and well-being of patients undergoing various medical procedures.

Dermatology

As a medical specialty, dermatology primarily focuses on diagnosing and treating skin conditions, emphasizing both medical and aesthetic aspects of dermatological care. Dermatologists are trained to address various skin issues, including infections, allergies, and cancers. To become a dermatologist , individuals typically undergo a residency period that generally lasts three years. 

One distinctive feature of dermatology is its dual nature, offering avenues for medical and cosmetic dermatology. In addition to addressing medical concerns, dermatologists specialize in various aesthetic procedures aimed at enhancing skin appearance, such as Botox injections, laser therapies, and chemical peels. This comprehensive approach allows dermatologists to cater to their patients’ diverse needs, promoting skin health, overall well-being, and confidence.

Neurology, as a medical specialty, is dedicated to studying, diagnosing, and treating disorders affecting the nervous system. Neurologists specialize in addressing  a diverse array of neurological conditions, including epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases. To become a neurologist , individuals typically undergo a residency period, usually lasting four years. 

One notable aspect of neurology is the potential for engaging in research opportunities to further the understanding of complex neurological disorders and develop innovative treatments. Neurologists play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions, employing a combination of clinical expertise, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic interventions to address the unique challenges associated with nervous system disorders.

Key Takeaways

In conclusion, while the ease of pursuing a medical specialty can be measured in terms of time commitment and training requirements, it is crucial to recognize that choosing a medical specialty should align with individual interests and career goals. Physical medicine, family medicine, internal medicine, emergency medicine, dermatology, psychiatry, anesthesiology, pathology, pediatrics, and neurology each offer distinctive features, catering to different aspects of healthcare. The journey to becoming a doctor is diverse, and this exploration guides aspiring medical professionals to make informed choices based on their passion and aspirations within the dynamic landscape of medicine.

Ready to embark on your journey in medicine? Join AUAMED ! With a commitment to fostering excellence in medical education, AUA offers comprehensive programs designed to provide emerging healthcare professionals with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful medical career. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which medical specialty requires the shortest training time to become a qualified doctor.

Family Medicine is the medical specialty with the shortest training time, typically requiring a three-year residency after medical school.

In which country is the process of becoming a doctor considered to be the easiest in terms of requirements and duration?

The perception of the easiest country to become a doctor varies, but some Caribbean nations, including Antigua, are known for streamlined processes and shorter durations for medical education.

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Why I Chose AUA:

“I was confident going into AUA because of their leadership. It was clear to me from the beginning that the staff and administration from top to bottom were pioneers and leaders in medical education. They showed a great deal of commitment by investing in constructing a brand new state of the art campus while I was there. Although the new campus opened shortly after I left the island, it was encouraging to watch its construction. It let us know that AUA was committed to investing back into its students, and are here to stay for years to come.”

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