A doctoral degree represents the pinnacle of higher education. This prestigious academic credential can open doors to leadership roles and advanced careers in specialized fields.
They are also economically valuable, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). According to a 2024 BLS review of education and employment trends, people with doctoral degrees had the lowest unemployment rate of any studied group. They also earned 23.8% more, on average, than people with master's degrees.
This guide explores our picks for the best online Ph.D. programs, highlighting affordability as a key factor.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Ph.D. Programs and Doctorates Programs
Price Check
According to the BLS, professionals with doctoral degrees earned a median weekly wage of $2,278 in 2024. That works out to more than $118,000 per year.
What Is a Doctoral Degree?
A doctoral degree is the most advanced academic or professional degree in a specific field. A doctorate can validate your mastery of a particular discipline. While a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) may be the most recognizable doctorate, many schools offer other kinds of doctoral programs as well. Below are some of the most commonly offered doctoral programs.
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.): This practitioner-oriented degree program focuses on applied knowledge rather than theoretical research in education. The program usually takes three years to complete and is often offered online.
Juris Doctor (JD): Most U.S. states require a person to hold a JD to practice law. JD programs typically require three years of study and are rarely offered online.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA): A professional doctorate for business leaders and strategists, the DBA emphasizes practical research, writing, and presentation skills.
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH): For public health practitioners, a DrPH may stand independently or supplement a Ph.D. or doctor of medicine (MD). This degree may emphasize domestic or international public health. It can take 4-9 years to complete part time, and many programs are offered online.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): This degree prepares registered nurses (RNs) for careers in leadership, research, or academia. The DNP also meets the academic qualifications necessary for a nurse to become a nurse practitioner or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA).
What Can You Do With a Doctorate or Ph.D?
Doctoral degrees, including Ph.D. degrees and professional doctorates, can support your entry to advanced, specialized, leadership, and licensed roles. They are especially prevalent in fields including education, healthcare, social sciences, and STEM disciplines.
The following growing professions typically require a graduate degree. While a doctoral degree may be optional for some featured careers, holding one could give you a competitive advantage.
| Job | Projected Growth, (2024-34) | Annual Mean Wage, May 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | +20% | $140,910 |
| Education Administrators, Postsecondary | +2% | $103,960 |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors or Advisors | +4% | $65,140 |
| Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | +17% | $105,620 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $61,330 | |
| Instructional Coordinators | +1% | $74,720 |
| Nurse Practitioners | +35% | $132,050 |
| Pharmacists | +5% | $137,480 |
| Postsecondary Teachers | +7% | $83,980 |
| Psychologists | +6% | $94,310 |
How to Choose the Right Doctorate Program for You
The best online Ph.D. programs share one critical feature: They demand significant financial and time commitments. Before making that commitment, ensure that the study opportunity aligns with your expectations and objectives.
Considering your options from these angles may help:
Program Type: Research vs. Professional Doctorates
Research doctorates emphasize advanced theory and typically lead to Ph.D. designations, while professional doctorates focus on the applied skills advanced practitioners use in their fields. Examples include Ed.D., DBA, and DNP programs.
Ensure the path you choose matches your career and learning goals.
Funding and Stipends
Schools often offer financial resources to eligible doctoral students. Examples include teaching assistantships, fellowships, and stipends. Compare available funding opportunities and assess how they stand to impact your out-of-pocket costs.
Program Length and Structure
Doctoral degrees typically require multiple years of full-time study, and their structures generally include coursework, independent research, and a long-form dissertation. These components are intensive and demanding, and you should consider how they might impact your life outside of school.
Accreditation and Licensure
If you plan to pursue a licensed career, ensure your doctoral program satisfies the necessary educational requirements. Also, your program may require specialized accreditation to meet licensing standards. If relevant, ensure your program holds the necessary credentials before you apply.
Career Outcomes and Postdoctoral Expectations
Doctoral degrees generally lead to roles in academia, research and development, leadership, and specialized professions. However, you should determine whether a doctorate is recommended, preferred, or required for your intended career path. If it is none of those things, consider whether the time and financial investment will deliver worthwhile returns.
Faculty and Research Opportunities
Research the faculty in the academic department you will be joining. Do they have similar research interests? Do they have access to research funding in your area? Will you have access to faculty members who seem to make a good match for you?
Also, evaluate the research programs and facilities available at the school. If you have very specific research objectives, you should also ensure you will have full independence to pursue them as a doctoral student.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs and Doctorates
Ph.D. programs typically require about 3-4 years of full-time study, though some students need up to seven years to complete all requirements. Some professional doctorates require less time: For example, some schools offer Ed.D. programs with two-year completion timelines. Ultimately, program lengths vary — sometimes by considerable margins.
