Are There Free PhD Programs Online in Iowa?

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.

Do you want to earn a free doctorate degree online in Iowa? Unfortunately, schools in this state don't offer fully funded online PhD programs; however, you can find cost-friendly options with affordable tuition or financial support.

Keep reading to discover which Iowa schools have the best alternatives for students looking for free PhD programs online. Also, review frequently asked questions about the most common funding options for online doctoral programs.

Are There Any Fully Funded PhD Programs in Iowa?

No, there are no free online colleges in Iowa offering online doctoral degrees without tuition fees. However, students seeking fully funded online PhD programs can find institutions that provide fellowships, scholarships, assistantships, federal aid, and other funding options to reduce school expenses.

Below, we'll highlight some of Iowa's most affordable online PhD and doctoral degree programs and share the expenses many schools cover.

How Do I Receive PhD Funding?

The ways PhD students receive funding vary based on their selected program (e.g., computer science vs. educational leadership), degree type (e.g., Doctor of Business Administration vs. Doctor of Public Health), enrollment status (part-time or full-time), and other factors. But the most common methods of delivery include:

• Assistantships: A graduate assistantship is an employment opportunity that typically awards students with a partial or full tuition waiver and/or stipend. In exchange, awardees might teach bachelor's degree courses or work on a research project with a faculty member.
• Fellowships: These merit-based awards are designed to support graduate study, research, or professional development through a tuition waiver, stipend, or other funding. Unlike assistantships, fellowships don't require a work commitment.
• Grants and scholarships: These free award dollars, granted based on merit, need, or talent, help students cover school costs without requiring repayment.

What Does PhD Funding Cover?

Each doctoral program determines the costs it will cover. However, PhD funding commonly pays tuition and fees through a waiver, scholarship, or grant. Some institutions also offer a monthly stipend that enables students to pay some school-related and personal expenses. Depending on the program, health insurance coverage or funds for research projects could be available.

It's good to note that fully funded programs may not always cover all expenses. PhD students could be financially responsible for their living costs, internet access, learning devices, and commute to school if occasional campus visits are required.

Low-Cost Online Doctoral and PhD Programs in Iowa

Students looking for free PhD programs online can find high-quality alternatives in Iowa. Review the following schools to find some of the state's most affordable degree programs.

1. University of Northern Iowa

The Doctor of Education (EdD) at the University of Northern Iowa is a three-year online degree that teaches the leadership skills needed to transform informal education and community settings. The program requires learners seeking admission to possess an accredited master's degree and three years of professional experience.

If you're looking for Iowa's cheapest doctorate degree online, this EdD tops the list. In addition to affordable tuition, students benefit from funding opportunities like the Holmes Scholars Program, assistantships, scholarships, and grants.

Average in-state tuition: $569 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $569 per credit

Financial aid: Enrollees can reduce costs with help from assistantships, scholarships, grants, or other aid. The Holmes Scholars Program covers American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) membership and conference travel costs and provides mentoring and networking opportunities for eligible recipients.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Iowa State University

Students eager to excel in business or academia can find affordable advanced degrees at Iowa State University. Programs include a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in apparel, merchandising, and design, an EdD in community college leadership education, and a PhD in hospitality management � each of which is delivered in a hybrid format with in-person and online learning options.

At Iowa State, most doctoral students receive a graduate assistantship, which typically includes a tuition award and health insurance coverage. On-campus and off-campus jobs, grants, financial awards, and student loans are also available.

Average in-state tuition: Starting at $639 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: Starting at $639 per credit

Financial aid: Graduate assistantships, grants, on-campus and off-campus jobs, financial awards, and loans make learning at Iowa State more affordable.

Accreditation: HLC

3. Morningside University

Morningside University is home to two online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs for students with nursing licensure who are pursuing or currently hold a Master of Science in nursing (MSN). The direct care practitioner DNP prepares students to fill advanced roles in clinical settings. Coursework in the transformative leadership DNP trains enrollees to produce optimized interventions and measurable healthcare outcomes.

To help enrollees cover the costs of these programs, the university offers low-interest loans and connects learners to several loan forgiveness programs for nursing students and healthcare professionals.

Average in-state tuition: $795 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $795 per credit

Financial aid: DNP enrollees can reduce the cost of their online doctoral degree with low-interest loans and loan forgiveness programs.

Accreditation: HLC

4. Maharishi International University

At Maharishi International University, students seeking career opportunities in holistic business, healthcare, or personal development can find three low-cost online doctoral programs. Degrees include a PhD in physiology and health, as well as a PhD in management. The institution also offers a PhD in Maharishi Vedic Science with five specialization options.

U.S. and international students pay the same affordable tuition rates for each program. PhD candidates who have passed comprehensive exams may qualify for a teaching position that includes a tuition waiver.

Average in-state tuition: $6,000 to $10,800 per year (waivers are available)

Average out-of-state tuition: $6,000 to $10,800 per year (waivers are available)

Financial aid: Tuition waivers, student loans, and veteran benefits can reduce PhD program costs.

Accreditation: HLC

5. Allen College

Allen College is a good choice for learners seeking accredited online schools that accept FAFSA. The institution offers hybrid and online doctoral programs with options to cover costs with federal financial aid and veteran benefits.

Hybrid programs include the RN-to-DNP and the BSN-to-DNP, while students seeking fully online programs can choose a post-graduate DNP or an EdD in health professions education. To make learning more affordable, each degree offers a 25% tuition deduction for qualified students.

Average in-state tuition: $962 per credit

Average out-of-state tuition: $962 per credit

Financial aid: Students save with help from tuition discounts, veteran benefits, and federal student aid.

Accreditation: HLC

Explore Online PhD Programs

Start an exciting journey in higher education by exploring the accredited degree programs on Learn.org. Contact schools directly to discover ways they can help you excel in your studies and reach your goals.