Affordable Online PhD & Doctoral Degrees in Arizona 2025

Finding affordable online doctoral programs can help you achieve your academic and professional goals without overwhelming student debt. This guide explores the cheapest online doctoral programs, such as Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and professional doctorate programs. We'll also explain exact tuition rates, financing options, and accessible coursework that make it easier for working adults to advance their careers in Arizona.

Cheapest Online PhD & Doctoral Programs in Arizona

Arizona is home to some of the cheapest online PhD programs in the country. Whether you're pursuing a career in healthcare, education, or business, these universities offer flexible, accredited options designed for busy adults. Many of the schools listed here are among the most affordable online colleges in the state. And if you're aiming for a strong return on investment, consider these high-paying doctoral degrees that can lead to top-tier career opportunities.

1. Harrison Middleton University

Harrison Middleton University offers online Doctor of Arts and Doctor of Education (EdD), programs with a flexible, self-paced format that allows students to start anytime. With one-on-one faculty interaction and a customized program of study, learners explore the classics and modern classics across disciplines. The university's distance learning model supports a balanced lifestyle, enabling students to pursue academic goals while managing work, family, and community responsibilities.

• Average cost per credit hour: $350
• Financial aid: Harrison Middleton University does not participate in federal financial aid programs to maintain its focus on lifelong learning; instead, students pay a $900 upfront fee upon acceptance, followed by $350 monthly payments until tuition is paid in full.
• Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)

2. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix offers a range of online doctoral programs in fields such as business, education administration, health administration, and management. The length of these programs varies depending on factors like course extensions, research proposals, and dissertation requirements. Throughout their studies, doctoral students benefit from dedicated support services, including a specialized graduation team, dissertation assistance, and a robust resource hub.

• Average cost per credit hour: $810
• Financial aid: The University of Phoenix offers its own scholarships to eligible students and accepts a variety of financial aid options, including grants and loans.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. University of Arizona Global Campus

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers fully online doctoral programs, including a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree and PhD degrees in education, human services, and organizational development and leadership. Designed for full-time working professionals, these programs feature five- to six-week courses taken one at a time. Students learn from experienced faculty with both academic and real-world expertise, and no standardized test scores (GPA or GRE) are required for enrollment.

• Average cost per credit hour: $812
• Financial aid: In addition to FAFSA aid, students can fund their online education with grants, scholarships, military benefits, and employer savings.
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

4. Trident University International

Trident University International offers fully online doctoral programs including a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in business administration, educational leadership, and health sciences. The university also provides professional doctorates such as the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Health Administration (DHA), and EdD, tailored for working professionals. These programs focus on practical leadership skills and applied knowledge in business, healthcare, and education, combining academic rigor with flexibility for busy adult learners.

• Average cost per credit hour: $761.25 to $990
• Financial aid: Trident University International accepts scholarships, grants, federal loans, and military tuition assistance for their doctoral-level education programs.
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) offers online doctoral degree programs in areas such as behavioral health, education, engineering, leadership, and clinical research management. With flexible, accelerated courses and up to six start dates per year, ASU Online supports diverse student needs. All degree programs feature expert faculty, innovative curriculum design, and comprehensive student services like tutoring, advising, and career coaching.

• Average cost per credit hour: $1,158
• Financial aid: Arizona State University accepts a variety of financial aid options to help support students, including grants, fellowships, scholarships, federal and private loans, and military education benefits.
• Accreditation: HLC

Other Affordable Online PhD & Doctoral Programs

Several universities outside of Arizona offer affordable and flexible online doctoral programs for working professionals across fields such as education, healthcare, business, and psychology.

Capella University

Capella University offers a wide array of online doctoral programs, including PhDs and professional doctorates in fields like education, business, public health, social work, nursing, and psychology. Students can choose between two learning formats: GuidedPath, which follows a structured schedule, or FlexPath, a self-paced model allowing faster completion for motivated learners. These programs are designed for working professionals, providing the flexibility to balance academic, career, and personal commitments.

• Average cost per credit hour: $525 to $1,020
• Financial aid: Capella students can utilize federal student aid, scholarships, military tuition assistance, and employer tuition discounts.
• Accreditation: HLC

Walden University

Walden University specializes in online education and offers a robust selection of doctoral degrees, including PhD, EdD, DBA, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs in education, healthcare, psychology, business, criminal justice, and more. Programs are designed for busy professionals, with multiple start dates and asynchronous courses that let students learn at their own pace. Walden emphasizes social change, academic rigor, and real-world applicability in its advanced degree offerings.

• Average cost per credit hour: $535 to $1,060
• Financial aid: Walden University accepts scholarships, grants, and federal student loans through the FAFSA program, helping make education more affordable for eligible students.
• Accreditation: HLC

Liberty University

Liberty University offers more than 60 online doctoral programs with specializations such as education, counseling, business, theology, and nursing. Many programs are available completely online, with optional on-campus intensives for hands-on training or networking. The university emphasizes faith-based learning and leadership development. Liberty's flexible eight-week course format and generous transfer credit policy help working adults complete their online learning efficiently without compromising quality or affordability.

• Average cost per credit hour: $610 to $1,200
• Financial aid: Liberty University accepts a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal or private loans.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

National University

National University (NU) offers flexible, fully online doctoral programs designed for professionals in concentrations including psychology, organizational innovation, instructional design, and education. The university's uniquely flexible format allows students to balance rigorous academic work with personal and professional responsibilities. With convenient scheduling and a supportive learning environment, National University helps students achieve their educational goals without putting their lives or careers on hold.

• Average cost per credit hour: $650 to $1,241
• Financial aid: Students at NU can access federal financial aid, institutional scholarships, military tuition assistance, and employer partnership benefits.
• Accreditation: WSCUC

Franklin University

Franklin University's affordable online doctoral programs are in the following areas:

• nursing practice
• healthcare administration
• business administration
• instructional design leadership (education)
• organization leadership (education)

Students can also complete these degrees in an accelerated format�coursework usually will take around three years while the capstone project or dissertation will take around one year to finish.

• Average cost per credit hour: $748
• Financial aid: Students can qualify for federal/state aid along with private loans from Franklin's preferred lenders.
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

Our selection of online doctoral programs is based on the following criteria:

• Accreditation: Only schools with recognized regional or national accreditation are included.
• Affordability: We consider tuition costs, financial aid availability, and payment flexibility for online students.
• Program reputation: We look at academic rigor, faculty member credentials, and student outcomes.
• Online student resources: Schools are rated on the resources they offer online students, including mentoring, tech support, and career services.

How Much Does an Online Doctoral Degree Cost in Arizona?

The cost of an online doctoral degree in Arizona varies by program type and institution. On average, tuition ranges from $350 to over $1,150 per credit hour. Programs from private universities may be more expensive than those from public institutions. Additional fees such as technology, dissertation support, and graduation costs may also apply.

For more affordable options, explore cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA in your state.

Financial Aid for Online Doctoral Programs in Arizona

Students pursuing online doctoral degrees in Arizona have access to various financial aid options. Most accredited universities accept FAFSA, allowing eligible students to apply for federal grants and student loans. Many schools also offer institutional scholarships and payment plans to reduce the financial burden.

Additionally, military tuition assistance and employer tuition reimbursement are available for qualifying students. It's important to contact the university's financial aid office early in the admissions process to explore all funding opportunities and maximize eligibility.

Discover Online Doctoral Degrees

If you're ready to take the next step in your academic journey, browse our website to find accredited and flexible doctoral education programs that fit your goals and budget.