Are There Free PhD Programs Online in Oregon?

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.

While free PhD programs online are rare, several universities in Oregon offer fully funded or low-cost doctoral programs. These programs help alleviate the financial burden through tuition waivers, stipends, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and health insurance. These cost benefits make higher education more accessible. Oregon universities are known for offering high-quality doctoral programs supported by strong faculty members and robust research projects. Continue reading to discover low-cost or fully funded online PhD programs in Oregon.

Are There Any Fully Funded PhD Programs in Oregon?

Yes, Oregon has options for free online colleges with fully funded online doctoral programs. Certain universities only offer on-campus or hybrid formats, though. For example, Oregon State University offers funding for most doctoral students in public health through teaching or graduate assistantships. Similarly, the University of Oregon provides four years of funding, covering tuition, health insurance, and a monthly stipend for students in certain degree programs. These are only two of the options for students seeking an affordable doctoral education.

How Do I Receive PhD Funding?

Some Oregon PhD programs are fully funded, offering tuition waivers, stipends, and health insurance through roles like research assistants or teaching assistants. For programs without full funding, students can still reduce costs through FAFSA, institutional scholarships, and fellowships. Many doctoral students work part-time on faculty-led research projects, especially in fields like the humanities and sciences. Flexible enrollment options also support working professionals balancing study and career. Keep reading to learn about accredited online schools that accept FAFSA.

What Does PhD Funding Cover?

PhD funding packages often include tuition waivers or reimbursement, health insurance coverage, research and travel funding, and stipends to assist with living expenses. Learners should also be aware of additional costs such as books, supplies, and personal expenses. If you find a PhD program that interests you, consider applying to be a research assistant or teaching assistant to further offset costs.

Low-Cost Online Doctoral and PhD Programs in Oregon

While free PhD programs online are limited, several Oregon universities offer low-cost online or hybrid doctoral programs with financial aid options. These programs provide flexibility for working professionals and non-traditional students seeking advanced degrees. Read on to discover affordable online PhD programs in Oregon that fit your goals.

1. University of Oregon

The University of Oregon offers several fully funded doctoral programs across disciplines like special education, communication, biology, and business. For PhD students enrolled full-time, these programs typically include tuition waivers, healthcare coverage, and annual stipends. Though they offer over 50 doctoral programs, the only fully online program is the Doctor of Educational Leadership (EdD).

Average in-state tuition: Covered by a tuition waiver

Average out-of-state tuition: Covered by a tuition waiver

Financial aid: The UO confers $268 million annually in the form of grants, loans, work-study, and some scholarships. PhD programs are typically fully funded and have additional benefits like health insurance.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Oregon State University

Oregon State University (OSU) offers online doctoral programs through its Ecampus platform, including a PhD in counseling. While some master's degrees are fully online, the PhD program is hybrid; face-to-face classes occur only twice each quarter in a Friday through Saturday block. OSU does offer fully funded PhD programs. While fully funded options are limited, students can explore assistantships and scholarships.

Average in-state tuition: $614 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $614 per credit hour

Financial aid: Financial support includes grants, scholarships, and military education benefits to qualifying students. Students should complete the FAFSA and explore tuition assistance programs available through their employers. Some PhD students may receive fully funded opportunities.

Accreditation: NWCCU

3. Capella University

Capella University offers flexible coursework for online doctoral programs such as the EdD, DBA, and DNP. Tuition ranges from $525 to $1,020 per credit, and select programs qualify for a Tuition Cap of $48,000. While not fully funded, Capella offers scholarships like the $5,000 Progress Reward for eligible students.

Average in-state tuition: $775 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $775 per credit hour

Financial aid: Learners can earn scholarships, qualify for tuition cap, or apply for federal aid through FAFSA.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. George Fox University

In addition to in-person doctoral programs, George Fox University offers two doctoral degree programs completely online�EdD and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). Even though George Fox University does not advertise fully funded online doctoral programs, they do offer funding through scholarships and assistantships.

Average in-state tuition: Specific rates not publicly listed

Average out-of-state tuition: Specific rates not publicly listed

Financial aid: The university provides financial aid options such as federal loans, institutional scholarships, and assistantships. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for aid.

Accreditation: NWCCU

5. Pacific University

Pacific University offers two doctoral degree programs online�Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) and Doctor of Health Science (DHSc). Programs like the DHSc offer advanced training in healthcare with opportunities for specialization in areas such as public health and leadership. Pacific University does not offer fully funded PhD programs, but PhD students can offset the cost by applying for federal financial aid, scholarships, or the university's work-study program.

Average in-state tuition: $915 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $915 per credit hour

Financial aid: The university provides financial aid options such as federal loans, a work-study program, and scholarships.

Accreditation: NWCCU

Explore Online PhD Programs

Oregon offers several low-cost doctoral programs to help you begin your path to earning an affordable doctoral degree online. For more information on affordable options, continue exploring Learn.org and contact a program that interests you today.