10 Best Online PhD and Doctoral Programs 2026

Doctoral degrees are terminal degrees, meaning they are the highest degree you can get in a field. There are two types: the first are professional doctorates, which lead to specific careers or licensure; the others are research-based degrees, like Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, which often lead to roles in academia and research.

These graduate programs typically take several years to complete. Professional doctorates usually require at least three years of full-time study, while PhDs and other research programs usually take at least four. As a result, many students find it more convenient to earn their credentials online rather than on campus, and there are several affordable online PhD and Doctoral programs available. Keep reading to discover some of the best online PhD programs and doctoral degrees.

Top Online Doctoral and PhD Degree Programs

Online doctorates and PhDs aren't as common as online bachelor's or master's degrees, but many schools still offer them. Below, we've featured some of the best online doctoral programs and PhD options for students.

1. Capitol Technological University

Capitol Technological University focuses on advanced STEM education with a strong emphasis on cybersecurity, engineering, and applied technology. Located near Washington, DC, the university maintains close ties to federal agencies and defense contractors, which shapes its doctoral curriculum and research priorities. Small class sizes and faculty with industry backgrounds support applied, workforce-relevant study.

Capitol Tech offers online doctoral programs designed for working professionals, including PhDs and professional doctorates in technical fields. Programs emphasize applied research and real-world problem solving. Online students pay a single tuition rate regardless of residency and can access financial aid options that support part-time enrollment.

2. National University

National University is known for its adult-focused academic model and flexible doctoral programs. Based in San Diego, the university structures its online doctorates around one-to-one faculty interaction rather than group-based coursework, which allows students to move through programs on an individualized schedule.

The university offers more than 20 online doctoral pathways, including PsyD, EdD, DBA, and PhD options in leadership and technology-related fields. Students receive structured dissertation support through dedicated research centers and workshops. Institutional scholarships and global alumni resources support students pursuing leadership roles across sectors.

3. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is a public research institution with nationally recognized strengths in aerospace, healthcare, and engineering. UND’s online doctoral programs are grounded in applied research and supported by university research centers that extend resources to distance learners.

Online doctoral options include professional degrees such as the DNP and DrPH, along with PhD programs in engineering, communication, and related fields. Programs emphasize research literacy, leadership preparation, and practical application. UND charges consistent online tuition regardless of residency, which helps keep costs predictable.

4. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is a private research university in Florida with a strong focus on professional doctoral education. The university is particularly known for programs in computing, cybersecurity, education, and healthcare, including NSA-recognized technology pathways.

NSU’s online doctoral programs are designed for working professionals and typically do not require campus residencies. Options include EdD, DNP, and PhD programs that emphasize applied projects and workplace-based research. Rolling admissions and institutional financial aid support flexible entry and progression.

5. Keiser University

Keiser University is a private institution based in Fort Lauderdale that offers online professional doctoral programs designed for experienced practitioners. Programs such as the Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) focus on leadership, organizational management, and applied decision-making for roles in government, education, nonprofit, and corporate settings.

Doctoral students follow a one-class-at-a-time format, which allows for focused study and predictable pacing. Small class sizes support regular faculty interaction, and programs are structured to accommodate part-time enrollment. Keiser also provides financial aid guidance and maintains military-friendly policies for eligible students.

6. Andrews University

Andrews University is a private institution in Michigan affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church and known for doctoral education grounded in ethical leadership and scholarly research. The university offers online doctoral programs in theology, ministry, education, and business, including the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) and PhD pathways.

Many doctoral programs use a cohort model that allows students to progress through coursework with a consistent peer group. Andrews emphasizes independent research, academic writing, and leadership development. Institutional aid options are available to support students throughout the doctoral process.

7. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a nationally ranked public research institution offering select online doctoral programs through UF Online. Based in Gainesville, the university provides professional doctorates such as the EdD and DNP, with particular strengths in education and healthcare-related disciplines.

Online doctoral students work with the same faculty as on-campus learners and follow research-based curricula. UF supports accessibility through competitive tuition rates and veteran services while maintaining the academic standards expected of a major research university.

8. Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University is a public research institution that delivers online doctoral programs in technical, agricultural, and education-focused fields. Online PhD options include computer science, engineering, and plant and soil science, with coursework designed to support distance learners.

The university also offers an online EdD centered on educational leadership and policy. Many programs use cohort structures and recorded instruction to integrate online students into campus-based learning. Online tuition rates remain consistent regardless of residency.

9. Kansas State University

Kansas State University offers online doctoral programs with a strong emphasis on leadership, adult learning, and education. Through its College of Education, the university provides PhD and EdD pathways designed for professionals working in corporate training, military education, and higher education settings.

Some doctoral programs are fully online, while others include limited residency components. Students can tailor coursework through elective options and specializations. K-State maintains transparent tuition pricing and draws on its land-grant research mission.

10. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University is a public research institution in Virginia recognized for its distance learning programs. The university offers online doctoral degrees in fields such as engineering management, public administration, education, and nursing education, including the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Doctoral programs are available in full-time and part-time formats to support working professionals. ODU provides institutional financial aid and charges similar tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state online students, helping keep doctoral study accessible.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

Our methodology also focused on the following key criteria that make up the best online PhD programs and doctorate degrees:

• Accreditation: Every school on this list holds regional accreditation.
• Program reputation: We selected only public and private nonprofit schools to ensure that the schools listed offer high-quality advanced degrees.
• Online degree offerings: Each university we selected offers a variety of online doctorate degree options.
• Tuition cost: All schools either offer low tuition rates or offer financial aid to help students offset their costs.

Popular Online Doctoral and PhD Degrees

There are many doctoral degree options available online, but some are far more common due to career demand, flexibility, and availability across accredited institutions. Below are some of the most popular doctoral and PhD programs offered in online or hybrid formats.

Doctor of Education (EdD)

An online EdD is one of the most common professional doctorates available. These programs prepare experienced educators for leadership roles in K–12 schools, higher education, and educational organizations. Coursework often focuses on educational leadership, policy, curriculum development, and applied research.

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

DBA programs are popular among senior managers and executives who want to strengthen their strategic and leadership skills. Online DBA programs emphasize applied research, organizational leadership, and data-driven decision-making rather than academic theory.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education

A PhD in Education is a common choice for professionals interested in research, policy, or academic careers. Online and hybrid options often focus on areas such as educational research, leadership, or higher education studies.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP is widely offered online for registered nurses pursuing advanced roles such as nurse practitioner positions, healthcare leadership, or administration. Programs in health sciences typically combine online coursework with required clinical hours completed locally.

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

PsyD programs are popular for students pursuing careers in mental health, clinical psychology, and counseling. While many programs are hybrid, coursework is often delivered online with in-person clinical training requirements.

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

DrPH programs attract professionals working in public health leadership, policy, and administration. Online DrPH programs emphasize applied practice, population health, and public health systems management.

PhD in Business or Management

PhD programs in business-related fields are commonly offered online for students interested in academic research, consulting, or advanced organizational analysis. These programs are typically research-intensive and require a dissertation.

PhD in Psychology

Online and hybrid PhD programs in psychology focus on research, behavioral science, or applied psychology fields. These programs are often pursued by students interested in academic, research, or advanced clinical pathways, depending on the specialization.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Doctoral Degree Online?

Most online doctoral and PhD programs take about three to seven years to complete, depending on the field, program design, and whether you enroll full time or part time. Professional doctorates such as the Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) are often structured for working professionals and may be completed in three to five years.

Research-focused PhD programs typically take longer. These programs require advanced coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation based on original research, which can extend the timeline to five to seven years or more. Programs that offer cohort models, fixed course sequences, or applied dissertation formats may help students progress more efficiently.

Your timeline can also be affected by factors such as transfer credits, dissertation pacing, residency requirements, and enrollment status. Many online doctoral students choose part-time study to balance work and personal responsibilities, while others move faster by enrolling year-round or following accelerated course schedules.

How To Earn a Doctoral Degree Online

Earning an online doctoral degree follows a similar process to on-campus programs, with added flexibility built in for working professionals.

• Choose a doctoral program that fits your goals: Start by identifying whether you need a research-focused PhD or a professional doctorate such as an EdD, DBA, or DNP. Your career plans, leadership goals, and field of study should guide this decision.
• Confirm admission requirements: Most doctoral programs require a completed master’s degree, official transcripts, and a minimum GPA. Some programs may also require professional experience, standardized test scores, or prerequisite coursework.
• Compare online formats and program structure: Look for programs that offer fully online or hybrid coursework, flexible pacing, and clear expectations for residencies or in-person requirements. Many online doctoral programs are designed with working adults in mind.
• Apply and enroll: After acceptance, you will work with an advisor to plan your coursework, register for classes, and become familiar with the online learning platform and research expectations.
• Complete coursework and qualifying requirements: Doctoral coursework often includes advanced seminars, research methods, and field-specific studies. Many programs also require comprehensive or qualifying exams before advancing to candidacy.
• Complete your dissertation, capstone, or applied research project: Depending on the degree type, you will complete an original research dissertation or an applied doctoral project focused on real-world problems in your field.

How Much Does an Online Doctoral Degree Cost?

The cost of an online doctoral degree varies widely based on the institution, field of study, and program length. In general, total program costs can range from $30,000 to $100,000 or more. Professional doctorates such as EdD, DBA, and DNP programs often fall on the lower end of this range, while research-intensive PhD programs may cost more due to longer timelines and dissertation requirements.

Online doctoral programs can help manage costs by reducing expenses related to commuting, housing, and campus fees. Some universities offer flat per-term tuition, discounted rates for online learners, or structured timelines that allow students to complete their degrees more efficiently. Reviewing total program cost, fees, and time to completion together gives a clearer picture of overall affordability.

Financial Aid for Online Doctoral Degrees

Paying for an online doctoral degree does not have to fall entirely on your shoulders. Many doctoral students use a combination of funding options to manage tuition and reduce out-of-pocket costs over time.

• Federal student loans: Most accredited doctoral programs qualify for federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans. These loans offer fixed interest rates and access to federal repayment and forgiveness options.
• Graduate PLUS loans: Available to eligible students who need additional funding beyond standard federal loan limits. Approval is based on credit eligibility and may cover remaining program costs.
• Scholarships and fellowships: Universities, professional associations, and nonprofit organizations offer funding specifically for doctoral students. These awards are often field-specific and may be tied to research, leadership, or service commitments.
• Employer tuition assistance: Some employers help fund doctoral degrees, especially in fields such as education, healthcare, business leadership, and information technology.
• Military and veteran benefits: Active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible family members may qualify for education benefits that can be applied to online doctoral programs.
• Assistantships and research support: While more common in on-campus programs, some online doctoral students may qualify for remote research or teaching roles, depending on the institution and program structure.
• Payment plans: Many schools offer installment plans that allow students to spread tuition payments across the term, making costs more manageable while enrolled.

How To Choose the Right Doctoral Degree

If you are not sure where to begin, these principles can help you select the right online doctoral or PhD program for your goals.

• Clarify your career goals: Think about what you want to do after graduation. Research-focused PhD programs are often best for academic or policy careers, while professional doctorates such as EdD, DBA, or DNP are designed for leadership and applied practice roles.
• Confirm accreditation: Make sure the institution holds recognized accreditation. This affects employer recognition, financial aid eligibility, and professional credibility. Some fields, such as nursing, psychology, and education, may also require program-level accreditation.
• Evaluate program format and flexibility: Review how coursework is delivered and whether the program offers part-time options, asynchronous classes, or limited residency requirements. Flexibility is especially important for working professionals.
• Understand dissertation or capstone expectations: Doctoral programs vary in their final project requirements. Some require traditional dissertations, while others use applied research projects or practice-based capstones.
• Review faculty expertise and research support: Faculty mentorship plays a major role in doctoral success. Look for programs with experienced faculty whose research or professional background aligns with your interests.
• Compare total cost and funding options: Look beyond tuition to include fees, time to completion, and available financial aid. Flat tuition models, employer support, and scholarships can significantly affect affordability.
• Consider student support and completion pathways: Strong advising, research support, and clear progression milestones can make a meaningful difference, especially in online doctoral programs.

Career Outlook With an Online Doctoral Degree

Earning an online doctoral degree can open doors to advanced leadership, research, and specialized professional roles. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), individuals with doctoral degrees tend to experience lower unemployment rates and higher median earnings than those with master’s or bachelor’s degrees. Many senior-level positions in education, healthcare, research, and administration either prefer or require doctoral-level training.

The strongest outcomes are often tied to degree type and field. Professional doctorates such as the EdD, DBA, DNP, and DrPH commonly support advancement into executive, clinical leadership, or policy roles. Research-focused PhD programs are more closely aligned with careers in academia, institutional research, and advanced analysis roles in government or private organizations. While a doctoral program requires a significant time and financial commitment, it can provide long-term value through career mobility, credibility, and access to specialized opportunities.

FAQs About Online Doctoral Degrees

Earning a doctoral degree is a big step, and you want to get it right. Below, we've answered a few frequently asked questions about online doctoral-level degree programs.

What Is the Easiest PhD Program?

In general, PhD programs require research, with the program culminating in a dissertation. As a result, there is no one 'easiest' PhD. The easiest option will depend on your strengths and your previous education. The easiest PhD degree programs for one person could be the hardest for another.

That being said, earning a degree online rather than in person can make the process much easier for students. While the coursework often doesn't change, the flexibility these degrees offer makes the whole process of earning a PhD simpler.

Read More: 18-Month Doctorate Programs Without Dissertation

Is an Online Doctoral Degree Worth It?

An online doctoral degree can be worth it if it aligns with your career goals and comes from an accredited institution. Doctoral programs are designed to build advanced expertise, leadership skills, or research capabilities that support senior-level roles. For professionals pursuing leadership, academic, or specialized positions, the flexibility of online formats can make doctoral study more achievable.

Are Online PhD Programs Respected?

While there was a time when online degrees weren't as respected, most people don't care whether you earned your degree online or in person anymore. What typically matters more is the college you earned it from, but obtaining a PhD from anywhere is a huge accomplishment.

If you're concerned your online PhD won't be taken seriously, don't stress too much. Most degrees do not list the learning method, so no one will know if you earned your degree in person or online, unless you attend a fully online school — though many online schools are now accredited just the same as traditional colleges.

How Do Online Doctoral Programs Work?

Online doctoral programs usually combine asynchronous coursework with structured milestones. Students complete advanced courses, research methods training, and qualifying exams before moving into a dissertation or applied research phase. Some programs include short residencies or in-person components, while others are fully online.

Are Online Doctoral Programs Fully Online?

Not always. Some programs are fully online, while others use a hybrid format that includes brief residencies, clinical hours, or research requirements completed in person. It is important to review program expectations carefully, especially for degrees in healthcare, psychology, or education.

What Is the Difference Between a PhD and a Professional Doctorate?

A PhD focuses on original research and academic scholarship, often leading to careers in teaching, research, or policy. Professional doctorates such as the EdD, DBA, DNP, or DrPH emphasize applied research and practical leadership skills designed for working professionals.

Are the GRE or GMAT Required for a PhD?

GRE or GMAT requirements for PhD programs vary by school and field, but many universities no longer require standardized test scores. This is especially common in education programs and professional doctorates, where admissions committees focus more on academic history, research potential, and work experience. For graduate students applying to research-intensive or quantitative PhD programs, test scores may still be requested, so it is important to review each program’s admissions requirements before applying.

How Do Community Colleges Fit Into the Path to a PhD or Doctoral Degree?

Community colleges do not offer PhD or doctoral degrees, but they can play an important role early in an academic pathway. Many students begin by building foundational competencies through associate degrees or transfer coursework in fields such as humanities or healthcare administration before moving on to a bachelor’s and then graduate study. While doctoral programs require advanced degrees from accredited universities, community colleges can support long-term academic preparation by helping students complete lower-division coursework affordably and establish a strong academic record.

Earn Your PhD Degree Online

Further your career path by exploring the best online doctoral programs featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.