Most Affordable Online PhD & Doctoral Degrees in 2025

Discover the most affordable online PhD and doctoral degree programs near you. Explore budget-friendly options in various fields to advance your education and career.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), pursuing higher levels of education correlates to higher salaries in numerous industries. Those with a doctoral degree notably outearn those with only a bachelor's degree.

If you're looking to move upward in your field, pursuing a terminal degree may be the right choice. Below, we'll discuss 10 of the most affordable online doctoral programs in the U.S. Explore tuition rates, accreditation information, and more key program details to help you find the right academic fit.

Cheapest Online PhD & Doctoral Programs

Earning a doctoral degree can accelerate your career. Keep reading to learn about the cheapest online PhD programs and doctorate degrees, including 1-year online PhD programs without a dissertation.

1. California Coast University

California Coast University is a distance learning institution that offers three Doctor of Education (EdD) programs in organizational leadership, educational psychology, and educational administration.

Students can start these self-paced education programs at any time, making them a perfect fit for professionals with busy schedules. To be considered for enrollment, candidates must already have a master's degree and professional experience in education.

Average cost per credit hour: $320
Financial aid: California Coast provides financial aid options, including payment plans, to assist students in funding their education.
Accreditation: California Coast University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

2. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University offers many online doctoral degrees in education and healthcare fields. Students can quickly and affordably earn their degrees thanks to the flexible distance learning environments and low tuition rates. For example, the online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is 36 credits, and tuition costs only $550 per credit hour; many students finish this program in only one year for a total cost of $19,800.

Average cost per credit hour: $550 for healthcare degrees and $340 for education degrees
Financial aid: Students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for government loans and grants.
Accreditation: The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

3. Columbia Southern University

Columbia Southern University (CSU) offers various online doctoral programs designed for working professionals, including doctorate degrees in business administration, emergency management, and organizational leadership. These flexible programs allow up to 40 transfer credits, allowing students to earn their doctoral degrees affordably.

Average cost per credit hour: $545
Financial aid: CSU offers several financial aid opportunities, including institutional scholarships for doctoral students, military tuition assistance, payment plans, and learning partnership programs with select organizations and companies.
Accreditation: The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

4. Walden University

Walden University, a distance learning institution, offers numerous online doctoral programs for professionals seeking to advance their careers. These flexible, fully online programs allow students to balance their education with work and personal commitments, with a focus on practical application and research. Personalized student support is available to all doctoral students at every stage of their degrees.

Average cost per credit hour: The tuition costs range by program. For example, the PhD in clinical psychology is $535 per credit hour, while the Doctor of Healthcare Administration is $760. Most programs typically fall within this range.
Financial aid: There are many opportunities to save money as a Walden University student, including scholarships, grants, tuition discounts, and federal aid. Students can also utilize payment plans to help manage out-of-pocket costs.
Accreditation: The school is accredited by the HLC.

5. Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University offers several online doctoral programs in subjects such as computer science, engineering, and community college leadership. These advanced degrees prepare students for leadership roles in their chosen fields. The admissions process is selective for most programs. For example, candidates applying to the computer science program must hold a bachelor's degree with a 3.5 GPA.

Average cost per credit hour: $558.50
Financial aid: Students can complete the FAFSA for government financial aid.
Accreditation: Mississippi State University is accredited by the (SACSCOC).

6. Liberty University

Liberty University, a private Christian institution, offers many online doctoral programs in fields, such as education, business, psychology, and theology. These flexible programs are designed for working professionals looking to advance their careers. Students can complete most online coursework and lectures at their own pace; however, some programs may require in-person practicums or internships.

Average cost per credit hour: $595
Financial aid: The school provides various funding opportunities, including scholarships, federal student loans, and payment plans.
Accreditation: The school is accredited by the SACSCOC.

7. Capella University

Capella University offers a diverse range of online doctoral programs in business, education, psychology, health, and more. These programs are designed for professionals looking to enhance their expertise and leadership skills. Students learn from expert faculty members and may progress quickly in their doctoral studies.

Average cost per credit hour: $510 to $995
Financial aid: Capella provides financial aid through federal student loans and grants to eligible students. There are also scholarships for doctoral students, military tuition assistance, and more ways to save on tuition.
Accreditation: Capella University is accredited by the HLC.

8. Clemson University

Clemson University in South Carolina offers several affordable online doctoral programs in subjects like education, communication, health sciences, and design. These flexible online learning programs developed and taught by expert instructors are designed to promote original research at the doctoral level. Some of these programs may offer on-campus learning opportunities or residencies to provide real-life work experience.

Average cost per credit hour: The cost ranges by program. Programs are between $656 and $994.
Financial aid: Clemson provides financial aid through federal student loans, grants, and graduate assistantships for eligible students. Students can also utilize payment plans for out-of-pocket costs.
Accreditation: It's accredited by the SACSCOC.

9. Concordia University-Chicago

Concordia University-Chicago offers several online doctoral programs that cater to working professionals aiming to advance their careers and make an impact in their fields. The flexible online format allows students to engage in rigorous academic work while balancing their personal and professional commitments. With a focus on leadership, research, and practical application, these programs equip students with the tools necessary for success.

Average cost per credit hour: $753 to $963
Financial aid: Concordia offers various financial aid opportunities, including federal student loans, institutional scholarships, and flexible payment plans, helping students manage tuition costs.
Accreditation: It's HLC-accredited.

10. National University

National University is a nonprofit school that offering a range of doctoral programs fully online. Some include criminal justice, instructional design, and healthcare administration. Students can earn a doctorate or PhD online while balancing work and other commitments as these programs are designed for adult learners.

Average cost per credit hour: Rates vary by program. The Doctorate of Education in instructional design costs $887 per credit hour; in contrast, the Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership costs $1,180 per credit hour.
Financial aid: The school offers several scholarships for doctoral students. Online learners can also complete the FAFSA for financial aid opportunities.
Accreditation: The school is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Our Selection Criteria

We selected the online schools on this list based on several ranking factors. Our criteria include:

Accreditation: We only chose schools accredited by organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Affordability: We consider the average cost per credit hour, focusing on programs that offer a good balance of quality education and cost-effectiveness while providing financial aid options to support students.
Program reputation: The doctoral programs included on this list are well regarded. Students can expect expert faculty members and academic support throughout their studies.

How Much Does an Online Doctoral Degree Cost?

The cost of an online doctoral degree varies widely depending on the program type, institution, and field of study. On average, students can expect to pay between $300 and $1,500 per credit hour. Factors such as program duration, residency requirements, and specializations also impact doctoral degree cost.

Financial Aid for Online Doctoral Programs

Financial aid for online doctoral programs includes several options to help ease the financial burden. Students can apply for federal grants and loans through FAFSA, which may offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment options. Many universities, such as Columbia Southern University and others on this list, also provide institutional scholarships.

Private scholarships, employer tuition reimbursement programs, and state-specific grants are also available. Additionally, some students may explore private loans, though they typically have higher interest rates.

Types of Affordable Online PhDs and Doctoral Programs

Some doctoral programs may be cheaper than others. Here are some of the most affordable types of online doctoral programs:

Doctor of Education (EdD): This program is typically centered around applied theory rather than original research and often only requires three years of study.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA): These DBA programs are available at various universities with competitive pricing for working professionals. Learn about DBA programs without dissertation requirements.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Many programs can be completed in only three years compared to other PhD programs that are typically finished in five to seven years.
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH): Healthcare doctorates are often affordable and can be completed in three to four years.

Discover Online Doctoral Degree Programs Near You

If you're searching for the cheapest online PhD programs and doctorate degrees, check out the programs on our website. You can find many opportunities to suit your unique career goals. Contact any school that interests you to learn more about their offerings and financial aid options.