Are There Free PhD Programs Online in Georgia?

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.

Are you interested in earning a free doctorate degree online with no tuition costs in Georgia? While there are many low-cost programs in the state, schools don't offer fully funded online PhD programs. Keep reading to discover affordable doctoral degrees in Georgia that can serve as cost-friendly alternatives to free PhD programs online.

Can I Get a PhD Degree Online for Free in Georgia?

Schools in Georgia don't offer free PhD programs online with no costs as there are generally fees to consider, even if tuition is reduced � but this doesn't mean you can't secure an affordable doctoral degree in the state. Students looking for tuition-free online colleges can find low-cost options that provide a high-quality educational experience. Below, we'll highlight some of the state's most affordable programs.

What Does PhD Funding Cover?

Funding for online doctoral degrees can look different depending on factors like your program of choice (e.g., public health vs. business administration) and enrollment status (i.e., full-time vs. part-time). Some programs cover full tuition and fees for all candidates, while others might provide reduced assistance to PhD students taking fewer hours per semester.

In addition to tuition and fees, some programs pay for health insurance and offer a monthly stipend. Keep in mind that even in a fully funded program, doctoral students might be responsible for program fees and other school-related expenses (e.g., internet costs, learning devices, etc.).

How Do I Receive PhD Funding?

Schools offering free PhD programs online sometimes have different delivery methods for funding. Here are some common ways learners receive financial support:

• Scholarships and grants: Some online doctoral programs offer full scholarships or grants to cover students' tuition and fees.
• Fellowships: A fellowship is usually a merit-based award offering a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend. This funding may also cover professional development, research project materials, conference travel, and additional expenses.
• Assistantships: PhD degree programs often provide assistantships with full tuition coverage and a monthly stipend. In exchange for these funds, graduate assistants (e.g., research assistants or teaching assistants) complete tasks or projects for faculty members.

Fully Funded Online PhD Programs in Georgia

Do you want to enroll in a free online doctoral program in Georgia? Explore the schools below for low-cost alternatives throughout the state.

1. Kennesaw State University

The Doctor of Education (EdD) in instructional technology at Kennesaw State University is a 100% online degree that prepares students for career advancement in education. The program's certification track can lead to a new S-7 certification (service field) in instructional technology. Coursework in the advanced track boosts students' leadership skills in advanced technology.

Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75. To help students save, Kennesaw State offers graduate assistantships with a tuition fee waiver and stipend.

Average in-state tuition: $393 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $393 per credit

Financial aid: Graduate assistantships, scholarships, and student loans make programs at Kennesaw State more affordable.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. University of West Georgia

At the University of West Georgia, learners can take their careers in K-12 settings, academia, and other professional settings to new heights with affordable EdD programs. Fully online degrees are available in professional counseling and supervision, higher education administration, nursing education, and school improvement.

In addition to low tuition, students can make these programs more affordable with scholarships and work-study jobs. Learners might also save with graduate assistantships and credits for prior learning.

Average in-state tuition: Starting at $405.60 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: Starting at $405.60 per credit

Financial aid: Scholarships, assistantships, work-study jobs, prior learning credits, and other financial support can help graduate students save.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Columbus State University

Columbus State University is home to an EdD in curriculum and development for educators seeking opportunities to improve the needs of schools and professional learning environments. The program offers specialization tracks in curriculum and instruction, higher education administration, and educational leadership and requires at least a master's degree with a 3.5 GPA for admission.

The institution's College of Education and Health Professions offers scholarships, such as the Dr. Ellen L. Roberts Graduate Scholarship in Education, to help reduce the cost of attendance.

Average in-state tuition: $461 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $461 per credit

Financial aid: Program enrollees can reduce the cost of their doctoral degree program with scholarships, federal student aid, and military benefits.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. University of North Georgia

Students interested in advancing their education and healthcare careers can find affordable advanced degrees with online learning options at the University of North Georgia. Programs include an EdD in higher education leadership and practice and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

UNG is one of many accredited online schools that accept FAFSA in Georgia. The school also offers research assistantships to select EdD students, as well as the Graduate Nursing Scholarship and the Nursing Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) to eligible DNP program enrollees.

Average in-state tuition: Starting at $478.50 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: Starting at $478.50 per credit

Financial aid: Learners can lower costs with scholarships, assistantships, loan forgiveness, and state and federal aid.

• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Georgia State University

Learners looking for affordable online PhD programs can find low-cost options at Georgia State University. Degrees include an online DNP and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nursing. The school also offers a PhD in health sciences and a PhD in instructional technology with on-campus and online courses.

Qualified GSU students can receive tuition waivers and stipends with laboratory, research, or teaching assistantships. The school also offers fellowships and other aid to help learners save.

Average in-state tuition: Starting at $518 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: Starting at $1,458 per credit

Financial aid: GSU enrollees studying in-person or online can use assistantships, fellowships, student loans, part-time employment, veterans benefits, or employer tuition assistance to lower costs.

Accreditation: SACSCOC

Explore Online PhD Programs

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