Are There Free PhD Programs Online in Michigan?

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.

Michigan is home to some of the top-ranking universities in the U.S., and students in the state can access some fully funded, virtually free PhD programs online. Enrollment in these online programs allows PhD students to earn their terminal degrees without incurring more debt.

Learn more about the fully funded online PhD programs available in the state and how students can qualify for funding and additional financial aid.

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

There are several fully funded PhD degrees available to doctoral students in Michigan. These doctoral degree programs cover various subjects, including nursing, educational leadership, and more. These programs are primarily delivered through online learning, but there are in-person learning experiences for some specializations, usually healthcare-related programs.

Although these programs have funding that covers tuition, students might still need to apply for additional financial aid to cover supply costs and other fees. In addition to in-state options, there are tuition-free online colleges that have national programs.

What Does PhD Funding Cover?

PhD funding comes in three main types: fully funded, partially funded, and self-funded. Fully funded programs are essentially free doctorate degree online programs; these programs cover all tuition, fees, and living costs for on-campus students. However, students in online programs generally don't qualify for living expense support.

Partially funded programs generally cover large portions of tuition and some additional fees. Students in partially funded programs will still qualify for grants and scholarships, in addition to loans. Self-funded programs are those paid out-of-pocket.

Funds are generally allocated as stipends and delivered similarly to a paycheck, as opposed to a single lump sum that is applied directly to total tuition costs. This delivery method allows students to make sure the funds are applied where they see fit.

How Do I Receive PhD Funding?

PhD funding comes from a few different sources. Primarily, funds are received directly from the university through which the degree is earned. This can come in a few main formats. One of the most common funding sources is through assistantships, where doctoral students help teach courses or serve as research assistants in exchange for money that can be used for tuition.

Some other sources of funding for online doctoral degrees include fellowships (which are like paid internships), scholarships, and grants. Some funding options will be more limited based on your chosen field of study. Students should also look into accredited online schools that accept FAFSA to find more financial aid opportunities.

Fully Funded Online PhD Programs in Michigan

Students in Michigan can enroll in five different fully funded online PhD programs across the state. These programs provide learning opportunities for graduate students to pursue their degrees without needing to apply for student loans. Most of these affordable online PhD programs are offered with remote classes, although some will include in-person residencies.

1. Cornerstone University

Cornerstone University (CU) is located in Grand Rapids, but learners across the state can enroll in an online Doctor of Education (EdD) in organizational leadership and development. This program is taught with a Christian worldview and helps working professionals develop and expand their research and leadership skills.

Students will be prepared for a top-level business positions, including C-level executive roles and more. All coursework is completed online, but students will be required to complete in-person residencies throughout their studies.

Average in-state tuition: $745 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $745 per credit hour

Financial aid: In addition to fully funded tuition coverage, some students can qualify for additional financial support, such as scholarships and grants that cover fees and other costs. There are also assistantships and fellowship opportunities available.

Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Andrews University

The Andrews University School of Leadership offers a fully online Doctor of Leadership (DLead). A one-week, in-person orientation is required, followed by 16 online courses. There is no dissertation requirement for this program, with students instead completing a doctoral research project.

Students take assigned courses, but there is plenty of room for specializations and customization for learners pursuing specific career goals.

Average in-state tuition: $1,756 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $1,756 per credit hour

Financial aid: There are specific school-provided scholarships for graduate-level students. Assistantships are also available to graduate students who work as teaching assistants.

Accreditation: HLC

3. The University of Michigan - Flint

The University of Michigan-Flint (UM Flint) offers three online doctoral degree programs. Students can pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), EdD, or Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) with distance learning formats. The DNP can serve as a bridge from either a bachelor's degree (BSN) or a master's degree (MSN) to DNP with five different concentration options.

In addition to being online, these programs provide learners with part-time and full-time enrollment opportunities.

Average in-state tuition: $1,111 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $1,303 per credit hour

Financial aid: UM-Flint students can qualify for graduate-level institutional scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, and grants.

Accreditation: HLC

4. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University's EdD in educational leadership prepares students for organizational leadership at either the P-12 or collegiate levels. There is a one-week summer residency, but all courses are completed through online education.

Students with an Educational Specialist (EdS) degree can transfer up to 24 credits, just under half the 63 to 66 required hours. Earning this advanced degree includes an administrative internship and prepares graduates to sit for the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) for advanced licensure.

Average in-state tuition: $895 per credit hour

Average out-of-state tuition: $895 per credit hour

Financial aid: Students can qualify for institutional grants and scholarships based on their degree level and department. There are also graduate assistantships that can involve stipend payments and tuition waivers.

Accreditation: HLC

5. Northern Michigan University

Northern Michigan University (NMU) has a DNP program with two pathways: post-baccalaureate and post-master's. In addition to the required coursework hours, students must complete 1000 supervised clinical hours.

These programs are considered low-residency, which means that on-campus requirements are very limited, with all coursework being completed remotely. The graduate assistantships at NMU can cover up to eight credit hours per semester of tuition fees for this part-time program.

Average in-state tuition: $900

Average out-of-state tuition: $900

Financial aid: NMU students can apply for graduate assistantships, federal work-study programs, and donor-funded scholarships.

Accreditation: HLC

Explore Online PhD Programs

Learn more about these schools and free PhD programs online with other funding opportunities by reading our articles and school profiles. Once you've found the right graduate school for your career goals, use our resources to request more information or start your application.