Affordable Online PhD & Doctoral Degrees in Indiana 2025

Professionals who want to pursue a doctorate but must stay on a budget can consider some of the cheapest online doctoral programs and PhD degree tracks that combine quality with value. With these online options, you can find flexible and inexpensive paths to career growth.

If you're an Indiana resident seeking affordable ways to further your education, keep reading.

Cheapest Online PhD & Doctoral Programs in Indiana

Below you can explore a curated selection of the cheapest online PhD programs designed for students aiming to earn an advanced degree without high tuition costs. These affordable online doctoral programs offer flexibility, with majors in various fields, and are well-suited for busy working professionals.

1. Indiana State University

Indiana State University (ISU) offers more than 70 flexible online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and licensures. Formatted for busy adults and remote learners, offerings include fully online doctoral programs such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), a doctorate in athletic training, and PhDs in educational administration (higher education and school administration), instructional leadership, and technology management.

• Average cost per credit hour: $462.00
• Financial aid: Financial aid includes federal loans, grants, and a variety of scholarships. The university awards approximately $16 million in scholarships annually.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers several online doctoral programs through its School of Education. The Doctor of Education (EdD) in curriculum and instruction includes concentrations in arts education and science education, with opportunities for research, publication, and higher education teaching.

The EdD in instructional systems technology is primarily online but requires attendance at the IST Annual Conference in the first year. Lastly, the EdD in literacy, culture, and language education prepares practitioner-leaders to address modern challenges in literacy and language.

• Average cost per credit hour: $495.55
• Financial aid: Federal aid, fellowships, assistantships, and scholarships are available to eligible students.
• Accreditation: HLC

3. Indiana Institute of Technology

Indiana Tech offers fully online doctoral programs created for working professionals looking for flexibility in their academic journey. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at Indiana Tech includes concentrations in business strategy, health care management, and marketing.

The PhD in global leadership offers specializations in business administration, global health leadership, higher education administration, and organizational leadership. The program includes annual in-person residency weekends, with optional global travel practicums for an immersive learning experience.

• Average cost per credit hour: $545
• Financial aid: Grants, federal aid, and many scholarships are offered to online students at Indiana Tech.
• Accreditation: HLC

4. Ball State University

Ball State University offers a wide range of bachelor's, master's, and online doctoral programs through its seven academic colleges. Doctoral degree programs include the Doctor of Education in adult and community education (available online, in Indianapolis, and on campus), as well as online EdD programs in educational administration and supervision and in elementary education.

Distance education degrees also include the Doctor of Philosophy in elementary education and special education, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice.

• Average cost per credit hour: $464
• Financial aid: BSU students can use federal aid, scholarships, assistantships, the Reciprocity Program, and tuition reimbursement to pay for school.
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University's online Doctor of Occupational Therapy (DrOT) program is designed for practicing occupational therapists seeking to enhance their expertise in mentorship, education, evidence-based practice, and policy advocacy.

This 30-credit hour program is fully online through distance learning, allowing completion in as few as 18 months, comprising four semesters and a capstone project.

• Average cost per credit hour: $715
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans can help ease the cost of doctoral students attending Valparaiso University.
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) offers several online doctoral programs tailored to accommodate the schedules of working individuals while integrating a Christian perspective.

Graduate programs include the Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Education in leadership, educational technology, and learning engineering, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Nursing Practice, as well as the PhD in organizational leadership.

As one of the highest-paying doctoral degrees, an EdD can lead to strong career prospects and high-earning roles in education and leadership after graduation.

• Average cost per credit hour: $575 to $1,010
• Financial aid: IWU invests over $25 million in institutional aid based on merit, need, and other factors. Federal and Indiana state aid are also available.
• Accreditation: HLC

7. Grace College

Grace College, a private Christian institution, offers flexible hybrid doctoral programs through Grace Theological Seminary. These programs combine online coursework with on-campus seminars, allowing students to remain active in ministry while earning their degree in as little as three years.

Online learning degrees include the Doctor of Ministry with concentrations in ministry leadership, pastoral studies, intercultural studies, interdisciplinary studies, and exemplary biblical preaching, as well as the Doctor of Intercultural Studies.

• Average cost per credit hour: $656
• Financial aid: Graduate students at Grace College have various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
• Accreditation: HLC

8. American College of Education

The American College of Education (ACE) offers the highest level of education with EdD programs in the following concentrations: curriculum and instruction, early childhood education, instructional technology, leadership, second language instruction, special education, public health education, and nursing education.

ACE offers flexible online programs led by industry professionals committed to your success. With frequent start dates, 24/7 support, and free tutoring, you can advance your education on your schedule.

• Average cost per credit hour: $306
• Financial aid: ACE awards over $1.1 million in scholarships and grants annually. Students can also look into scholarships, grants, and federal loans.
• Accreditation: HLC

Other Affordable Online PhD & Doctoral Programs

While the following education programs are not located in Indiana, they offer high-quality online degrees to students across the country.

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix offers doctoral degrees in business administration, education, health administration, and management. Each program requires 54 credits, a dissertation, and participation in an eight-week online symposium. Students may also attend an optional, no-cost weekend colloquium at the main campus in Phoenix, AZ, for in-person engagement and guidance on their dissertation.

• Average cost per credit hour: $810
• Financial aid: Students attending the University of Phoenix can access federal loans, scholarships, military discounts, and employer tuition assistance.
• Accreditation: HLC

Bethel University

Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota offers flexible online doctoral programs designed for adult students seeking leadership roles in education. The Doctor of Education (EdD) in higher education leadership focuses on strategic thinking, policy, and organizational development in postsecondary settings. The EdD in K-12 administration prepares educators for leadership in primary and secondary education. Both programs are fully online and integrate a Christian perspective.

• Average cost per credit hour: $816
• Financial aid: Financial aid options include scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

To help students find top-tier online doctoral programs, we evaluate options using the selection criteria below:

• Accreditation: We focus on programs that hold accreditation from respected regional or national bodies, guaranteeing academic quality and institutional credibility.
• Affordability: Tuition rates, financial aid availability, and scholarship options are carefully reviewed to highlight programs offering the best educational value.
• Program reputation: We take into account program prestige, faculty qualifications, student experiences, and how well graduates are received by employers.
• Online student resources: We also include programs that provide essential support for online learners, such as advising, tech help, and access to digital libraries.

How Much Does an Online Doctoral Degree Cost in Indiana?

The cost of an online doctoral degree in Indiana depends on the institution and program type. Tuition typically ranges from $306 to over $1,000 per credit hour and may vary based on full- or part-time enrollment. Programs in specialized areas like healthcare or business administration often come at a higher cost, while others may be more affordable.

Additional fees for technology, support services, or required residencies may also apply, so reviewing program-specific pricing is essential.

Financial Aid for Online Doctoral Programs in Indiana

Online doctoral students in Indiana can access various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential for determining eligibility for federal and state aid.

Indiana State University provides guidance on scholarships and loan options. Additionally, universities like Indiana University offer institutional scholarships and payment plans to help manage costs. You can request info through the financial aid office of your chosen institution for more assistance.

Discover Online Doctoral Degrees

Discover a wide range of affordable and flexible online doctoral programs featured on Learn.org. Find the ideal program that matches your career ambitions and financial needs and take the next step toward your doctoral degree today.