Are There Free PhD Programs Online in Maine?

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 there aren't completely free PhD programs online in Maine, that doesn't mean you can't earn a degree without breaking the bank. On top of loans and scholarships, students can work as teaching assistants or research assistants, in addition to applying for grants.

If you're looking for affordable online doctorate programs, you have a lot of options. Read on to learn more about cheap online PhD degrees in Maine.

Are There Any Fully Funded PhD Programs in Maine?

No, there are no free PhD programs online in Maine. However, there are numerous ways students can reduce the cost of earning their doctoral degree. From loans and grants to funding opportunities, PhD candidates have many options to make their programs affordable.

Tuition-free online colleges like the University of the People are available, but they come with other fees. Below, we'll highlight some of the most affordable online PhD programs and discuss their offerings and costs.

How Do I Receive PhD Funding?

Even though fully funded online PhD programs may be few and far between, there are numerous avenues to help doctoral students pay for their degrees, whether attending courses on campus or remotely. PhD funding typically involves a combination of financial aid options:

• Graduate Assistantships: Graduate assistantship positions often provide a stipend and may include tuition assistance in exchange for students teaching or performing other duties.
• Fellowships and Scholarships: Awarded based on academic merit or financial need, these aid options help PhD students reduce the costs of their degrees.
• Grants: Grants are offered by federal, state, or private organizations for specific research projects.
• Loans: Federal, state, and private loans can help cover remaining expenses, though these must be repaid. Accredited online schools that accept FAFSA ensure you can earn a degree for cheap.

What Does PhD Funding Cover?

Because there are no free PhD programs online in Maine, you'll need to pursue funding to reduce the costs. PhD funding covers various expenses related to getting a degree. These funds can cover more than just tuition expenses. Funding for your PhD can also be used as a stipend to cover your living expenses in addition to paying for any research materials and travel costs related to your studies.

Low-Cost Online Doctoral and PhD Programs in Maine

Though there are no free online PhD programs in Maine, many schools offer cheap degree options. Below is our list of affordable online PhD programs.

1. University of Maine at Fort Kent

The University of Maine at Fort Kent offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program, preparing students for advanced positions in healthcare. This program prepares students with leadership skills required to succeed in the nursing industry, offering three specialization tracks � the clinically focused track, the nurse education track, or the nursing administration track.

Average in-state tuition: $500

Average out-of-state tuition: $500

Financial aid: Federal and state loans, scholarships, grants

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. University of Maine

Offering a Doctor of Engineering degree (EngD) and a Doctor of Education degree (EdD), the University of Maine is a great option for prospective students. In addition to these doctoral programs, the school has numerous bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and advanced specialties. The university offers numerous scholarships and other aid options to graduate students.

Average in-state tuition: $567

Average out-of-state tuition: $567

Financial aid: Federal and state loans, scholarships, assistantships, grants

Accreditation: NECHE

3. University of Southern Maine

The University of Southern Maine offers one fully online doctorate program and another low-residency option. For students looking for entirely remote options, the Occupational Therapy Doctorate may be right for you. Alternatively, the Doctor of Philosophy degree is low-residency, which requires students to attend on-campus residencies briefly.

With over 150 graduate assistantships offering stipends and tuition assistance, as well as fellowships and research opportunities, funding for this program is comprehensive.

Average in-state tuition: $526

Average out-of-state tuition: $526

Financial aid: Loans, scholarships, grants, fellowships

Accreditation: NECHE

4. University of New England

With three fully online doctorate programs, the University of New England has varied options for those pursuing an advanced degree. Students can choose from the Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN), EdD, and Doctor of Social Work (DSW) programs.

Average in-state tuition: $860

Average out-of-state tuition: $860

Financial aid: Loans, scholarships, grants

Accreditation: NECHE

Other Fully Funded PhD Programs

While online doctorate programs are limited in Maine, there are options outside of the state that you can explore. Below are two schools to consider for an online graduate degree.

Capella University

Capella University offers a wide range of graduate programs, including a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), a Doctor of Information Technology (DIT), a Doctor of Public Health (DPH), and an EdD in education leadership. In addition to various financial support options the school offers, Capella University places a cap on tuition costs for doctoral programs to ensure a degree is affordable for students.

Average in-state tuition: $525 to $1,020 (depending on the program)

Average out-of-state tuition: $525 to $1,020 (depending on the program)

Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, grants

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Liberty University

As a private, non-profit institution, Liberty University offers over 40 doctoral degree programs, many of which can be completed entirely online. With affordable and flexible online learning methodologies, students can earn their degrees at their own pace. The school offers grants that students can apply for to make their already affordable degrees even cheaper.

Average in-state tuition: $595

Average out-of-state tuition: $595

Financial aid: Loans, scholarships, grants

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

Explore Online PhD Programs

While there are no free doctorate degrees online, there are ways to make school affordable. If you're a working adult or single parent considering going to graduate school online, there are numerous affordable options to consider. While fully funded programs may not be available, there are various financial aid opportunities for online learners to bring down the cost of a degree.