Are There Free PhD Programs Online in Massachusetts?

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.

If you live in Massachusetts and you're interested in learning more about fully funded online PhD programs, you're in the right place. Below, we'll discuss these types of programs and other ways to get an affordable or free doctorate degree online.

Are There Any Fully Funded PhD Programs in Massachusetts?

Unfortunately, tuition-free online colleges are hard to come by in Massachusetts, though some of the on-campus programs at Boston University are fully funded. Remote learners cannot complete an online doctoral program in the state without accruing at least some costs.

There are few truly free PhD programs online, but some schools throughout the U.S. do offer them. However, even fully online programs may require doctoral students to work in-person assistantships or fulfill other obligations to receive the funding.

What Does PhD Funding Cover?

Even Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs that aren't fully funded often provide generous financial support opportunities for students. Students may use whatever funding they receive toward tuition, fees, materials, research projects, room and board, and other academic expenses.

Some types of financial aid may have stipulations about how you can use it. For example, some scholarships can be used for any college-related expenses, while others can only be used for tuition. If possible, find out ahead of time how much financial aid you can apply toward different online learning costs so that you can plan accordingly.

How Do I Receive PhD Funding?

PhD funding is available from various sources. Many schools offer assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, grants, tuition waivers, and stipends to help students cover their expenses. You may also receive funding through outside sources, like businesses and nonprofits.

If you attend an accredited online school that accepts FAFSA, you may be eligible for additional types of funding through your state or the federal government. Grants, loans, and work-study programs can help graduate students earn their degrees more affordably.

Note that many of these programs may require you to work internships or fill teaching assistant positions in exchange for the funding. Others may require PhD students to meet specific requirements but won't involve a work component. Make sure you understand the terms of any form of aid or funding you apply for to find out how to receive that specific type of funding.

Low-Cost Online Doctoral and PhD Programs in Massachusetts

Though Massachusetts doesn't offer free PhD programs online, students can still earn an advanced degree on a budget in the state. Let's take a closer look at some of the Massachusetts schools that offer affordable online PhD programs.

1. University of Massachusetts Amherst

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public school in the University of Massachusetts System. Students at this school can pursue an affordable online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree that's considered one of the best in the nation.

The program provides several specializations and is ideal for both post-bachelor's degree and post-master's degree students. Generous funding options are available through the school, including teaching or research assistant placements, fellowships, grants, and more.

Average in-state tuition: $14,723

Average out-of-state tuition: $32,454

Financial aid: Assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, grants, state and federal aid

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. University of Massachusetts Lowell

The University of Massachusetts Lowell provides a variety of high-quality online degree programs. Doctoral degrees include a DNP and a Doctor of Education (EdD) in leadership in schooling.

These programs provide coursework that can be completed online, in-person, or in a hybrid format. A wide variety of scholarships are available for graduate students, and highly qualified candidates may also receive research or teaching assistantships to supplement their funding.

Average in-state tuition: $15,330

Average out-of-state tuition: $27,706

Financial aid: Scholarships, assistantships, grants, state and federal aid

Accreditation: NECHE

3. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth offers a DNP for aspiring nurse practitioners online. Students seeking enrollment in this program are looking to develop their leadership skills and pursue advanced licensure to serve in integral roles as part of any healthcare team.

Doctoral fellowships are available to outstanding students who enroll on a full-time basis, and these may cover up to four years of study. External fellowships and numerous other funding options are also available through the school.

Average in-state tuition: $16,390

Average out-of-state tuition: $29,578

Financial aid: Fellowships, scholarships, grants, assistantships, state and federal aid

Accreditation: NECHE

4. Cambridge College

Cambridge College is a private school located in Boston. It offers an online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in quality systems and improvement management taught by expert faculty members.

Students can complete this program on a full-time or part-time basis, as all coursework is asynchronous and flexible. Students at this school can earn various types of financial aid to help them save on already affordable tuition fees.

Average in-state tuition: $19,035

Average out-of-state tuition: $19,035

Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, student loans, military and first responder benefits

Accreditation: NECHE

5. Simmons University

Simmons University is a women's college in Boston that provides coeducational graduate degrees. Students can earn the following three doctoral degrees online through this school:

• social work
• behavioral analysis
• nursing practice

The school offers a wealth of scholarship opportunities that graduate students can apply for. Other types of funding may also be available, including veterans' benefits, student loans, and grants.

Average in-state tuition: $28,500

Average out-of-state tuition: $28,500

Financial aid: Fellowships, scholarships, student loans, military benefits, grants

Accreditation: NECHE

Explore Online PhD Programs

If you're ready to start an online doctoral degree program, whether a fully funded online PhD program or a traditional degree, explore the distance learning opportunities at the schools on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the colleges to find out more about their online education programs and choose the right program for you.