Are There Free PhD Programs Online in Colorado?

Although fully free online PhD programs may not be available in every field of study, students seeking an affordable degree path can significantly reduce costs through various financial aid options. Federal and state aid, scholarships from higher education institutions, and other funding sources can cover a portion of tuition costs for eligible students. However, it is important to note that additional costs beyond tuition may apply.

Many students want to continue their education beyond their bachelor's degree or even master's degree, but have a hard time finding the time or funds. Online programs can help, as they're often more flexible than in-person options.

Both professional doctoral degrees and research doctorates are available online. Professional doctorates, like Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or Doctor of Public Health (DPH) degrees, are for those pursuing licensure or leadership roles. Research doctorates, most commonly Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, can be in any field, from computer science to healthcare to the humanities.

While online learning offers increased flexibility, it can still be pricey, especially for those who don't want to take out student loans. There aren't many free PhD programs online, but by combining a low-cost school with financial aid, you could reduce your costs significantly. Keep reading to learn more about affordable and free doctorate degrees online in Colorado.

Are There Any Fully Funded PhD Programs in Colorado?

Unfortunately, there are no fully funded online PhD programs in Colorado. Some schools, like the University of Denver and the University of Colorado, Boulder, offer fully-funded PhD programs, but these are on campus.

There aren't really any free online colleges for graduate students in Colorado. However, by choosing an affordable school and applying for financial aid, you may be able to lower your costs enough that it results in a free PhD program online.

How Do I Receive PhD Funding?

Most doctoral students receive funding through multiple sources. All students should start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There are multiple accredited online schools that accept FAFSA in Colorado.

FAFSA determines what federal aid you qualify for and is also necessary for many need-based state and institutional programs. Other state and institutional aid may be available outside of FAFSA, including gift aid like grants, scholarships, and fellowships.

Many schools also offer assistantship opportunities to doctoral and PhD students, where students work under the guidance of professors or faculty members in exchange for financial support. Teaching assistants work in classrooms, while research assistants work on research projects.

What Does PhD Funding Cover?

PhD funding varies by aid program. Most will cover some or all of your tuition, as well as mandatory tuition fees. Some will cover additional expenses, like registration fees, textbooks, and other supplies. The more financial aid you use, the greater chance of earning a free PhD program online.

Some programs, assistantships in particular, will provide a stipend for living expenses, such as housing, food, and transportation. You may also be able to find research funding for your PhD as well.

Low-Cost Online Doctoral and PhD Programs in Colorado

Several online schools in Colorado offer online doctoral and PhD programs, but only a few offer affordable online PhD programs. Below, we've featured these affordable online options.

1. University of Colorado Denver

The University of Colorado Denver is a public research institution in Denver. It offers an online Doctor of Education (EdD) in leadership for educational equity that provides coursework rooted in educational leadership and social work.

In-state tuition for this degree is $464 per credit, while out-of-state tuition is $557. Scholarships are available to help students pay for their doctoral degree programs.

Average in-state tuition: $464 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $557 per credit

Financial aid: CU Denver accepts FAFSA, offers institutional aid, and accepts private aid.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Colorado State University Pueblo

At Colorado State University, students can earn an online doctoral degree in educational leadership. This EdD helps students hone their leadership skills in educational settings.

CSU Pueblo, a public university, is located in Pueblo, CO. It charges $550 per credit for this online doctoral program and also offers scholarship opportunities.

Average in-state tuition: $550 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $550 per credit

Financial aid: CSU Pueblo offers institutional aid, including scholarships. It also accepts aid through FAFSA and private sources.

Accreditation: HLC

3. Adams State University

Adams State University offers a PhD in counselor education and supervision through online learning. Adams State is a public university in Alamosa.

The PhD prepares students for roles in both academia and clinical settings. Tuition is $587 per credit hour, and scholarships are available. Many students also qualify for fellowship opportunities.

Average in-state tuition: $587 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $587 per credit

Financial aid: Adams State offers institutional aid and accepts FAFSA and private student aid.

Accreditation: HLC

4. Colorado Christian University

Two online doctoral programs are available through Colorado Christian University. One is a PhD in counselor education and supervision, and the other is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

CCU, located in Lakewood, CA, is a private, nonprofit Christian school. It charges $625 per credit for the DNP and $698 per credit for the PhD, and also offers scholarships to online learners.

Average in-state tuition: $661.50 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $661.50 per credit

Financial aid: CCU accepts aid through FAFSA and private organizations. It also offers institutional aid.

Accreditation: HLC

5. University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado is a public institution in Greeley, CO. It offers Doctor of Education and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs, as well as PhDs in nursing education and special education.

The EdD in educational studies costs $688 per credit, while all other online doctoral degrees are $734 per credit. Scholarships and grants are available, as well as administrative and teaching assistantships.

Average in-state tuition: $724.80 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $724.80 per credit

Financial aid: UNCO accepts FAFSA, offers institutional aid, and accepts private financial aid.

Accreditation: HLC

Explore Online PhD Programs

Find the perfect online doctoral program by exploring the affordable, high-quality options featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.