Top 10 Colleges with Online PhD Programs
Many universities offer PhD programs, but only a few offer online PhD programs. Discover the best universities for online PhD programs in the United States.
There are hundreds of universities in the United States that offer Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, but only a few of those offer PhDs online.
Keep reading to discover the best online PhD programs.
Top Online PhD Programs
While many colleges and universities offer online bachelor's and master's degrees, online PhDs are a little harder to find. However, there are a few universities that offer online PhDs.
Below, we've listed our top ten picks for universities with online PhD programs. Programs are listed alphabetically.
1. Capitol Technology University
Capitol Technology University is a private university in South Laurel, Maryland. It primarily offers degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.
Nearly 40 online PhDs are available through the university in areas of study like:
- computer science and cybersecurity
- engineering
- homeland security
- occupational health and safety
Professional doctorates in education and science are also available online, as well as bachelor's and master's degrees.
2. Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University is a public research university adjacent to Starkville, Mississippi. It offers over a dozen online PhD programs.
These programs are primarily in science fields, such as:
- computer science
- engineering
- industrial systems and engineering
- plant and soil sciences
Additionally, the university offers an online Doctor of Education. Online bachelor's and master's degrees are available as well.
3. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University is a private research university based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It offers several online PhD programs.
Online PhDs are available in fields like:
- computer science
- conflict analysis and resolution
- criminal justice
- health science and nursing
Nova Southeastern also offers several online professional doctorates in fields like education, nursing, and speech-language pathology, in addition to online bachelor's and master's degrees.
4. Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University is a public research university in Norfolk, Virginia. It offers multiple online PhD programs.
Students can earn an online PhD in fields such as:
- educational leadership
- engineering
- English
- public administration and policy
Several educational specialist degrees are also available online, along with bachelor's and master's degrees.
5. Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University is a public research university in Lubbock, Texas. It offers over a dozen PhDs in either online or hybrid formats.
The majority of online PhDs offered at Texas Tech are in education.
Other available areas of study include:
- personal financial planning
- systems and engineering management
- technical communication and rhetoric
Professional doctorates in education are available online as well, in addition to bachelor's and master's degrees.
6. University of Alabama
The University of Alabama is a public research university in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. It offers a handful of online PhD programs.
Online PhDs are available in fields like:
- aerospace engineering and mechanics
- communication and information sciences
- instructional leadership
- mechanical engineering
The university also offers online professional doctorates in education, nursing, and social work. Online bachelor's and master's degrees are available too.
7. University of Missouri
The University of Missouri is a public research university in Columbia, Missouri. It offers a few different online PhDs through the system's various campuses.
These online PhDs are offered in fields like:
- agricultural education
- human environmental sciences
- information science and learning technologies
- nursing
Online professional doctorates are available in fields like education, nursing, and occupational therapy, and online bachelor's and master's degrees are also available.
8. University of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota is a public research university in Grand Forks, North Dakota. It offers about a dozen online PhD programs.
Online PhDs are available in fields like:
- communication
- engineering
- Earth system science and policy
- Indigenous health
Students can also earn Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees online, along with bachelor's and master's degrees.
9. University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina is a public research university in Columbia, South Carolina. It offers several online PhD programs.
Most of the online PhD programs at the University of South Carolina are in engineering.
These include PhDs in:
- civil engineering
- computer engineering
- mechanical engineering
- nuclear engineering
In addition, professional doctorates are available in fields like education and nursing. Bachelor's and master's degrees are available online as well.
10. University of the Cumberlands
The University of the Cumberlands is a private Christian university in Williamsburg, Kentucky. It offers a few online PhD programs.
Online PhDs available at the university include:
- business
- counselor education and supervision
- information technology
- leadership studies
Additionally, a Doctor of Business Administration and a Doctor of Educational Leadership are available online, as are bachelor's and master's degree programs.
FAQs About Online PhD Programs
Below, you'll find the answers to frequently asked questions about online PhD programs.
How Long Are Online PhD Programs?
The length of an online PhD program can vary based on the program, but these degrees usually take a minimum of four years to complete.
What Can I Earn an Online PhD in?
Online PhDs are available in a variety of fields. Some common areas of study are engineering, health sciences, and computer sciences.
What's the Difference Between a PhD and a Professional Doctorate?
PhDs are primarily research degrees for those wanting to work in academia or research, while professional doctorates are for specific professions, like medicine, education, or nursing.
Find Online PhD Programs
Online PhDs are available through several excellent universities. Check out the programs above to find the right fit for you today!