fully funded phd in education online

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Top 10 PhD in Education Programs

Karla Ibarra is a content writer at Scholarships 360. She has worked as an English teacher and writing tutor. As a writing tutor, she has experience editing scholarships and college application essays. Karla graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Communication and a minor in English.

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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Earning a PhD in any field is both time intensive and expensive. While the required time to earn a PhD is a given, paying for one is not! Fully funded PhD programs offer students a chance to focus on their studies without worrying about going into debt long (sometimes decades) after graduation. With the average cost of a PhD at nearly $100,000 , potential PhD students should do everything possible to secure a spot in fully funded programs. Keep reading to learn about some of the top fully funded PhD programs in Education! 

Related: Top scholarships for teachers

First, exactly what is a “Doctorate of Philosophy” degree?

A PhD, which is the abbreviated form of “doctorate of philosophy,” is among the highest level degrees one can earn in the United States. Students earn a  PhD after the completion of a lengthy research and writing project known as a “dissertation.” While most students earn PhDs in the humanities or social sciences, they can earn a PhD in a variety of fields. 

Further reading: What is a PhD?

How we chose the fully funded PhD in Education programs on this list

All of the programs on the following list have stellar reputations in the education space. It is not surprising that the most reputable programs offer plentiful resources that are invaluable to PhD students. PhD students are able to fully focus on their studies in well stocked and up-to-date libraries. Students have access to the most distinguished education professors in their respective specialty fields. Upon graduation, students will have strong connections to help launch their own careers. 

All of the fully funded programs included offer full tuition coverage. Most offer living stipends and health insurance as well. Make sure that you read the details of exactly what to expect from each program. Students may be required to contribute to their education by becoming a graduate assistant or working in some capacity at the school they are enrolled in. 

Let’s take a look at some of the top fully-funded PhD in Education programs, which are in no particular order. 

Columbia University Teachers College PhD program in Education Policy 

Columbia University Teachers College PhD program in Education provides students with rigorous academic training and research opportunities. The program offers a range of specializations, including curriculum and teaching, educational leadership, higher education, international and comparative education, psychology in education, and special education.  

• Location: New York City, New York
• Focus of study : Curriculum and teaching, education policy and social analysis, health education, and cognitive studies in education.
• What is included : Tuition coverage for the first, second, and third year

Harvard University PhD in Education

Harvard University offers a PhD program in Education through the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE). The program offers students specializations in three concentrations: Culture, Institutions, and Society; Education Policy and Program Evaluation; and Human Development, Learning and Teaching.  

• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Focus of study : Human development, instructional practice, institutions and society, learning and teaching, and policy analysis and evaluation
• What is included : Full financial support for tuition, health insurance fees, and basic living expenses for a minimum of five years

Stanford PhD Program in Education

The Stanford Graduate School of Education PhD program in Education prepares scholars to advance knowledge about learning and education, with a focus on improving educational outcomes for all students. Academic areas students can focus on include curriculum studies and teacher education (CTE), developmental and psychological sciences (DAPS), social sciences, humanities, and interdisciplinary policy studies in education (SHIPS), and other cross-area specializations. 

• Location: Stanford, California
• Focus of study : Educational leadership, education policy analysis, learning and teaching, and quantitative and qualitative research methods
• What is included : Full tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign PhD program in Education

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a Ph.D. program in education that provides students with a strong foundation in educational theory, research methodologies, and practical applications. Students may specialize in a variety of different areas of study. These include educational policy, leadership and administration, curriculum and instruction, educational psychology, and human development. 

• Location: Champaign, Illinois 
• Focus of study : Curriculum and instruction, educational policy, educational psychology, higher education, learning sciences, and special education
• What is included : Full tuition waiver, a partial fee waiver, and a stipend in the first five years of enrollment

University of Michigan PhD program in Educational Studies  

The University of Michigan offers a Ph.D. program in Education through its School of Education. Students have the opportunity to specialize in diverse fields such as educational psychology, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and policy. Additionally, the University of Michigan provides a vibrant intellectual community and a wide range of resources, including libraries, research centers, and partnerships with local schools and educational organizations. 

• Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Focus of study : Cross-specialization concentration, educational foundations and policy, educational policy, leadership, and innovation, learning technologies, literacy, language, and culture, mathematics education, science education, and teaching and teacher education
• What is included : Full tuition waiver, health insurance, and a generous stipend package 

University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education PhD program in Education

The University of Pennsylvania offers an interdisciplinary and prestigious Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Education housed within the renowned Graduate School of Education (GSE). Students can choose one of the five programs available: 1) educational linguistics 2) human development & quantitative methods 3) literacy, culture, and international education 4) policy, organizations, leadership, and systems and 5) teaching, learning, and leadership. The GSE also has numerous research centers and institutes, providing opportunities for collaboration and engagement with experts. 

• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Focus of study : Educational technology, language and literacy, higher education, policy analysis, teacher education, and urban education
• What is included : A full scholarship, a stipend, and student health insurance for the first four years of study

Vanderbilt University Ph.D. program in Learning, Teaching, and Diversity

Vanderbilt University offers a Ph.D. program in Learning, Teaching, and Diversity through its Peabody College. The program aims to place a strong emphasis on research and provides students with numerous opportunities for professional development and networking. The program offers four areas of specialization: language, literacy, and culture; justice and diversity in education; mathematics and science education; and learning and design. 

• Location: Nashville, Tennessee
• Focus of study : higher education, learning and instruction, language and literacy, educational policy, and more
• What is included : Full tuition support, health insurance, and graduate assistantships that cover living expenses

The University of Texas at Austin College of Education PhD

Within the College of Education at UT Austin , the Curriculum and Instruction department includes a variety of PhD programs to choose from like bilingual education, cultural studies in education, early childhood education, language and literacy studies, learning technologies, social studies education, and more. Other departments in the college of education include: Curriculum and Instruction; Educational Leadership and Policy; Educational Psychology; Kinesiology and Health Education; and Special Education.

• Location: Austin, Texas
• Focus of study : Bilingual/Bicultural Education; Cultural Studies in Education; Early Childhood Education, Language and Literacy Studies; Learning Technologies; Physical Education Teacher Education; Social Studies Education; STEM Education; and Urban Teachers Program
• What is included : Full tuition waiver, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance for up to five years

New York University Steinhardt

The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University offers many PhD programs in the field of education. Popular concentrations include learning sciences, literacy education, educational psychology, policy studies, and teaching and learning. A PhD in education from New York University offers students a variety of specializations with the added bonus of a fully funded program.  

• Focus of study : Bilingual Education; Childhood Education; Early Childhood Education; Education and Jewish Studies; Educational Communication and Technology; and more
• What is included : Tuition coverage for required course work, an annual stipend, and health insurance through the fifth year 

Washington University in St. Louis, PhD in Education

Washington University in St. Louis offers a Ph.D. in Education through its Graduate School of Arts & Sciences. PhD students may choose from two major strands of study; educational policy studies and educational psychology. Students in the Educational Policy Studies concentration focus on analysis of educational policy, address systemic inequities, and study qualitative, quantitative projects. The Educational Psychology program helps students in their focus on psychological research and theories relating to learning and motivation. 

• Location: St. Louis, Missouri
• Focus of study : Educational Policy Studies and Educational Psychology
• What is included : Full tuition remission and a monthly stipend five to six years

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Frequently asked questions about fully funded PhD programs in education

How do i know which phd program in education is right for me.

• If you had to pick one, what would be your main professional goal?
• What’s the reputation of the faculty?
• What research options are available?
• What environment is right for me?

Does a fully funded PhD in education include housing?

Is there an age limit for earning a phd in education, can i earn an online fully funded phd program in education, scholarships360 recommended.

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Fully Funded Online Ph.D programs

The academic landscape is undergoing a transformation, with fully funded online Ph.D. programs emerging as a powerful tool for democratizing doctoral education. These programs eliminate geographical constraints and the financial burden of traditional on-campus programs, opening doors for a wider range of students, including working professionals, geographically dispersed individuals, and those with family commitments.

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Eligibility and requirements:.

While offering flexibility, online Ph.D. programs remain competitive. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Strong Academic Profile:  A bachelor’s degree in your chosen field with good grades is essential.
• Standardized Test Scores:  Many programs require the GRE, so factor in dedicated exam preparation time.
• Compelling Application Package:  Gather stellar recommendation letters from professors who can vouch for your academic abilities and research potential. Prepare a well-written statement of purpose that clearly articulates your research interests and motivations for pursuing a Ph.D.
• Research Experience (Optional, but Beneficial):  Having research experience can strengthen your application, demonstrating your aptitude for independent research, a core component of a Ph.D. program.

Important Tips for the Application Process:

• Start Early:  Research programs well in advance to understand their specific requirements and deadlines.
• Seek Guidance:  Reach out to program advisors or current students to gain insights into the program structure and culture.
• Highlight Your Strengths:  Tailor your application materials to each program, emphasizing your unique skills and experiences relevant to their research focus.

Advantages of Fully Funded Online Ph.D. Programs

• Financial Security:  These programs can be a lifesaver, offering full tuition coverage and often providing stipends to support living expenses. This eliminates the burden of student loans and allows you to focus on your research and studies.
• Flexibility:  The online format offers unparalleled flexibility. You can study from anywhere with a reliable internet connection, allowing you to continue working or manage personal obligations without compromising your academic pursuits.
• Faster Start:  Unlike traditional programs, you might be able to begin your Ph.D. journey shortly after completing your bachelor’s degree, potentially accelerating your career path.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

• Limited Interaction:  The online format inherently offers less face-to-face interaction with professors and peers. This can affect the learning experience and hinder the development of strong professional networks, crucial for career advancement in some fields.
• Self-Discipline is Paramount:  The flexibility requires strong time management and self-discipline skills to stay on track, complete coursework effectively, and manage research projects independently.
• Finding the Right Program:  With numerous programs and varying requirements, researching and selecting the best fit can be overwhelming.
• Time Commitment:  Be prepared for a long-term commitment. Online Ph.D. programs typically require five or more years to complete.

Making an Informed Decision

Carefully assess your current educational background and career aspirations before embarking on an online Ph.D. program. While a Ph.D. can lead to significant career advancements, the time commitment and potential drawbacks require thorough consideration.

Funding Your Online Ph.D:

Even without full funding, there are ways to make an online Ph.D. more affordable:

• Scholarships and Grants:  Research scholarship and grant opportunities offered by universities, research institutions, professional organizations specific to your field, and even government agencies.
• Financial Aid:  Explore federal financial aid options like FAFSA, which can help bridge the gap in program costs.
• Teaching or Research Assistantships:  Some Ph.D. programs, even online ones, offer assistantships with teaching or research duties in exchange for tuition remission and stipends.

Fully funded online Ph.D. programs offer a groundbreaking approach to doctoral education. By carefully assessing your eligibility, goals, learning style, and financial aid options, you can determine if this path aligns with your academic aspirations. Remember, a Ph.D. is a significant commitment, so choose wisely!

Fully Funded Online PhD Programs

Brown university.

Brown University’s School of Engineering has a fully-funded Ph.D. program in computer science for college graduates with an undergraduate degree in computer science and those who have majored in other disciplines and hold a master’s degree in computing or related areas. To be eligible for a degree, individuals need to possess robust programming proficiency, a comprehensive comprehension of fundamental computer science concepts, and a grasp of at least one significant computer science domain.

Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in any field to apply for Brown’s online degree program. However, they ought to demonstrate proficient expertise in mathematics, science, or engineering. At Brown, the Computer Science department crafted a cutting-edge curriculum that encompasses the latest approaches to the field and teaches diverse educational levels of computer science methods.

UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON-DOWNTOWN

The University of Houston-Downtown has a full scholarship program that can be used to pay for an online doctorate. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree and at least three years of work experience before they can apply. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required as well. Students must complete 27 credit hours and pass their comprehensive exams to graduate from the program.

DEVRY UNIVERSITY

Devry University has a full scholarship program that can be used for online students who are Online students who aspire to earn an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree can utilize Devry University’s comprehensive scholarship program. To apply, prospective candidates need to possess a bachelor’s degree. They also need to be able to attend the occasional on-campus meetings throughout the year. The maximum scholarship is $5,000 per semester and the scholarship may be applied to books and fees.

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND-BALTIMORE COUNTY

The University of Maryland-Baltimore County has a full scholarship program that is available for online students who want to earn an undergraduate or graduate degree. To apply, prospective candidates need to possess a minimum of a high school diploma. They must be able to attend meetings on campus throughout the year. The student can choose from programs in business, technology, and liberal arts that are paid for by the scholarship fund.

WILSON COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The Wilson Community College has a full scholarship program available online through the College Foundation of North Carolina. Applicants need an associate degree or 60 transferrable credit hours. They also need to have at least a 3.0 GPA to apply. Eligibility for the scholarship is extended to community college students, enabling them to utilize it for covering a maximum of two years’ worth of education expenses at Wilson Community College or other community colleges situated in North Carolina.

UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS

The University of Leeds is offering up to 30 fully-funded online Ph.D. programs. Students who are accepted into the university’s international master’s or doctoral program receive the scholarship. Before applying, prospective candidates must possess an undergraduate degree and have accumulated a minimum of two years of professional experience. Recipients of the scholarship receive £5,000 annually, as well as exempted tuition fees and complimentary access to the university’s educational resources.

UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND

International students seeking to obtain an online bachelor’s or master’s degree can utilize the University of the Witwatersrand’s comprehensive scholarship program. To apply, candidates need to possess a minimum of two years of professional experience. Students accepted into the university’s international master’s or doctoral program receive the scholarship.

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS

Students seeking a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree can earn an online full scholarship program offered by the University of Texas at Dallas. To apply, candidates need an undergraduate degree and two years of professional experience. Annually, the scholarship fully funds tuition, fees, and all other university expenses.

UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE

The University of Strathclyde has a full scholarship program for online students who want to earn an undergraduate or master’s degree. Applicants must have at least an undergraduate degree to apply. They must be able to attend the occasional on-campus meetings throughout the year. The scholarship can pay for tuition, fees, and other expenses.

EMORY UNIVERSITY

Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia is a fully-funded online Ph.D. program for college graduates looking to become researchers in economics. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with an excellent GPA and strong GRE Quantitative scores.

Graduates from the online doctoral program will be prepared for academic careers in leading universities around the world. The curriculum is intensive and fast-paced, consisting of a blend of coursework and research. In addition to studying in their specific disciplines, students must take courses in general economics as well as econometrics.

NEW YORK UNIVERSITY

Childhood education is a growing discipline looking to incorporate the latest research and technology into educational practices. Aspiring scholars holding either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree can pursue expertise in the field of early childhood education through New York University’s fully-funded Ph.D. program.

Strong backgrounds and proven success in elementary and secondary education, coupled with a comprehension of children’s learning and development, are prerequisites for applicants.

The NYU online child education program is designed for students who do not have extensive backgrounds in research methodologies or statistics, but it requires students to take courses on these topics. The curriculum includes core courses as well as advanced study in major sub-disciplines of early childhood education.

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

The online Ph.D. in educational leadership and policy at the University of Pennsylvania is a fully-funded degree intended for college graduates who wish to become researchers or professors in education policy, administration, and planning. Applicants must have excellent GPAs throughout their academic careers and strong scores on the GRE.

Penn’s program in educational leadership and policy is a research-focused degree intended for people with strong academic records in the humanities, social sciences, or public health. Before undertaking their dissertation work, students must complete advanced courses in economics, sociocultural theory, and data analysis methods to fulfill the necessary requirements.

There is another way to save money! By choosing to go to a college that pays you to attend , you can become more financially stable after you graduate.

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30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

These fully funded Ph.D. programs are in fields like business, computer science, education and nursing.

(Getty Images) |

Many Ph.D. programs are fully funded.

Students interested in graduate research in various fields, from public health and English to computer science and engineering, have numerous options for Ph.D. programs that offer full funding. These programs typically provide waived tuition and fees and an annual stipend. Some also offer health insurance and other benefits. Gaining admittance into these small cohorts can be highly competitive, and the programs can be time-consuming . Here are 30 fully funded Ph.D. programs at U.S. colleges and universities. Keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list – there are others out there.

• Ph.D. in anthropology at the University of Chicago

Anthropology Ph.D. students at the University of Chicago can receive funding for up to eight years of study, assuming they are in good standing at the university. During that time, they will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus health insurance and a living stipend – which equated to $33,000 for the 2022-2023 school year – and can apply for external fellowships.

Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University (MA)

Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston offers a Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health that aims to provide students with expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend and health insurance for five years as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. International students receive the same benefits. Current research in the school's laboratories involves diseases like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria and tuberculosis.

(Dominick Reuter) |

• Ph.D. in business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Students enrolled in the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology can study a range of fields like organization studies, accounting and information technology. Those pursuing a Ph.D. will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus a monthly stipend of $4,267, capped at $51,204. They will also receive medical insurance, new laptops at the beginning of their first and fourth years of study and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.

(Tommy Lavergne | Rice University)

Ph.D. in business at Rice University (TX)

At the Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business in Texas, students enjoy full financial assistance upon admission to the Ph.D. program. Aiming to prepare students to teach in fields like accounting, finance, organizational behavior and strategic management, the program provides students with a research or teaching assistantship. Students receive a tuition waiver and a $40,000 annual stipend contingent on making satisfactory academic progress and maintaining full-time student status.

Office of Strategic Communication | University of Iowa

• Ph.D. in business at the University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's Tippie College of Business offers Ph.D. degrees in fields such as accounting, economics, business analytics and marketing. The college says it provides full funding to "virtually all admitted students." This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments and comprehensive health insurance covered at 90%. Some departments offer funding for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships and paid time off for independent research.

Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University (NY)

According to Cornell University 's website, all students admitted to the chemical engineering Ph.D. program at the New York school receive a full tuition waiver, health insurance and a stipend. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.

Chris Taggart | Columbia University

Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University (NY)

Students enrolled in Columbia University 's Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the Teachers College in New York receive fully funded tuition and a $25,000 stipend annually for three years. The stipend also carries into a student's fourth year. These doctoral fellows "may be expected to serve" as graduate teaching or research assistants. Students typically complete the mentor-matched program, which includes a full-year internship, in five to seven years.

Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University (RI)

Brown University 's Ph.D. students in computer science have access to "full financial support while completing the degree," plus the option to take classes at nearby schools without incurring additional costs, according to the school's website. In fact, doctoral students in any program at the Rhode Island university are guaranteed five years of financial support, which includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees and a subsidy for health insurance.

Georgetown University |

Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University (DC)

Georgetown University 's Ph.D. program in computer science provides scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition at the Washington, D.C., school and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years. Once enrolled in the program, students must complete the Apprenticeship in Teaching Program and ultimately write and defend a full research dissertation in a seminar open to the public.

Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University in St. Louis

Ph.D. students in the computer science or computer engineering program at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support and health insurance. According to the university's website: "As a doctoral candidate, you will also receive a generous stipend to cover living expenses and a new, high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as you continue to make satisfactory progress towards your degree." Doctoral students may also qualify for one of three fellowships.

Jeff Miller | UW-Madison

• Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Wisconsin—Madison

Incoming Ph.D. students at the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin—Madison are guaranteed full funding for the duration of the time that they are expected on campus, according to the university's department of counseling psychology website. Doctoral students also receive a benefits package that includes health insurance. Funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships and/or traineeships.

Emory University |

Ph.D. in economics at Emory University (GA)

Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding, according to the Georgia university's website. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student's cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.

• Ph.D. in education at New York University

New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers more than 30 degree programs. Many can be pursued on campus or online. Ph.D. degrees are offered in areas like developmental psychology, educational leadership and childhood education. Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.

L.A. Cicero, Stanford News Service |

Ph.D. in education at Stanford University (CA)

Stanford University's Graduate School of Education allows students numerous fellowship and assistantship opportunities at the California school, along with a "five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance," the program website reads. At the Graduate School of Education, doctoral students can choose from a range of academic areas like curriculum studies and teacher education, and developmental and psychological sciences.

• Ph.D. in education at the University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.

• Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor can choose from numerous areas of specialization under umbrella categories like aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, macromolecular science and engineering, and robotics. All engineering doctoral students are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend and health insurance. The exact amount can vary, according to the program's website, and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.

Boston University Photography |

• Ph.D. in English at Boston University

Annually, doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, according to the university's website, but it's not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships and short-term research and travel grants.

(Stephanie Diani) |

• Ph.D. in English at the University of California—Los Angeles

Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at the University of California—Los Angeles are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes "a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support and up to four years of teaching assistantships," according to the school website. Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Jeff Watts |

Ph.D. in international relations at American University (DC)

American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean's Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant. Students also must "demonstrate competency in a modern foreign language" before graduating.

Jonathan Cohen | Binghamton University

• Ph.D. in management at Binghamton University—SUNY

All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years. This STEM-designated business doctoral degree prepares students for careers in academia and work in the public and private sectors, and has a student-faculty ratio of 1-to-1, according to the university's website.

Duke University Communications |

Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University (NC)

Doctoral students at Duke University in North Carolina studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university's student medical insurance plan. The doctoral program aims to help students publish with a faculty adviser and develop research skills, with the opportunity to present research at professional conferences.

Homewood Photography | JHU

Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University (MD)

The School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland provides most doctoral students with three fully funded years of study. Available financial aid includes graduate assistantships, targeted fellowships and nursing-specific funding. The university aims to "advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery" with the degree, its website reads. "By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career."

• Ph.D. in nursing at the University of Virginia

All students admitted to the University of Virginia 's Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant. With a heavy research focus, students can expect courses in qualitative, quantitative and historical research, and will have to submit a research proposal for peer review.

Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University (CT)

At Yale University in Connecticut, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care. The program allows students to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular area of study. Every incoming Ph.D. student gets paired with a faculty adviser "whose area of expertise and active research most closely matches with the student’s scholarly interest," according to the school's website.

University of Minnesota |

• Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend and subsidized health insurance. Funding comes from some combination of teaching assistantships, traineeships, research assistantships and fellowships. Students in the program can specialize in areas like cognitive and brain sciences, industrial-organizational psychology and social psychology.

Matt Cashore | University of Notre Dame

Ph.D. within the Romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame (IN)

University of Notre Dame doctoral students who focus on French and Francophone studies, Iberian and Latin American studies or Italian studies are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance. Anyone who completes the Ph.D. degree requirements at the Indiana university within five years will automatically receive a one-year postdoctoral fellowship via the university's 5+1 Program. Fellows will have a teaching load limited to one course per semester.

Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College (PA)

Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College 's Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and "substantial stipends" toward living expenses. The Pennsylvania college's website says: "Consistent with our model, all Ph.D. students are funded equally, and do not compete for basic financial support during coursework." The program's cohorts typically include only three or four students each year. According to the college, it awarded the first Ph.D. degree in social work in the U.S. in 1920.

Vanderbilt University |

Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University (TN)

Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. This includes full tuition, a "competitive" monthly stipend and health insurance for up to four years. Students may also be nominated for additional honor scholarships and fellowships. Areas of focus within the Ph.D. program include high-incidence disabilities and early childhood education.

Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University (IL)

This interdisciplinary Ph.D. program at Northwestern University in Illinois combines coursework in humanities, social science and the visual arts. The program's students receive a five-year full-tuition scholarship plus an annual living stipend. Ph.D students enrolling at this program in fall 2022 will receive a living stipend of at least $36,960 during the 2023-2024 school year. Stipend amounts may change from year to year. Students can apply for subsidies to facilitate conference travel and summer language study.

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

• Ph.D. in women, gender and sexuality studies at University of Maryland

At the University of Maryland 's Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master's degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master's degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships. Since the program's establishment in 1999, the department has granted 36 Ph.Ds, according to UMD's website.

Learn more about paying for graduate school.

Finding a fully funded program isn't the only option to offset the costs of graduate school. See these seven strategies to pay for graduate school to learn more. Check out the latest Best Graduate Schools rankings to see the country's top business, medicine and law programs – and more. For additional grad school tips, follow U.S. News Education on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn .

Ph.D. programs that are fully funded

• Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University
• Ph.D. in business at Rice University
• Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University
• Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University—St. Louis
• Ph.D. in economics at Emory University
• Ph.D. in education at Stanford University
• Ph.D. in international relations at American University
• Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University
• Ph.D. within the romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame
• Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College
• Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University
• Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University

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College of Professional Studies

Northeastern University’s online Doctor of Education program provides experienced adult learners, working professionals, and scholar-practitioners from diverse backgrounds and perspectives with the practical knowledge and experience they need to transform the learning landscape. Students gain innovative approaches to create authentic change in their communities. The program was selected as the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate's Program of the Year for 2022-2023.

The Doctor of Education program is designed to be completed in three to four years of study—following a fast-paced quarter system in lieu of a traditional semester format. Students choose from five concentrations to create a curriculum that matches personal and professional interests. The program's dissertation in practice process will begin at the onset of your coursework as you identify your problem of practice and develop an action plan—incorporating cycles of data collection and analysis, collaboration, change work, and reflection—culminating in the dissemination of your action research findings. Our students come from diverse disciplines and professions, seeking more than just a degree. You'll gain a practical education that translates to your everyday working environment.

While all EdD courses can be completed online (except for hybrid courses in Seattle and Charlotte), annual in-person two-day residencies are held on campus. Residencies focus on networking and tools for career success and allow you to connect with faculty and fellow scholars to share knowledge and experience. You'll attend residencies* in your first and second years of the program at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.

The Northeastern Doctor of Education degree is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and was selected as Program of the Year by the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Program for 2022-2023.

*Please note: International students enrolling in the online EdD program will be provided with an option to complete the residency through online participation in interactive sessions with fellow scholars offered during the residency period.

More Details

Unique features.

• You will choose one of five concentrations—higher education administration, innovative teaching and learning, transformative school leadership, workplace learning, and integrative studies—to focus your studies and further customize your curriculum.
• You'll begin dissertation in practice work at the onset of your program. You'll select a compelling educational/organizational challenge and will be assigned a faculty advisor to support your research throughout the program.
• All coursework is online—providing flexibility for working professionals. Your residencies will be fulfilled in person*, at one of our campuses in Boston, Charlotte, or Seattle.
• You'll learn alongside faculty practitioners—engaging with respected leaders who contribute to the field as authors, journal editors, school board members, bloggers, and podcasters.

*In-person participation in the residency is also available for international students.

Concentrations

• Higher Education Administration: The higher education administration concentration provides an opportunity for experienced higher education professionals to expand their previous understanding of practices within all sectors of postsecondary education—and also advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their understanding of the roles of colleges and universities in our society. Sectors examined include community colleges, four-year colleges, for-profit institutions, and research universities.
• Innovative Teaching and Learning: The innovative teaching and learning concentration focuses on transforming education through innovation, justice, and policy, by providing engaging opportunities for current and aspiring teaching and learning specialists working in various education spaces. The concentration focuses on teaching and learning both inside and outside the bounds of P-20 schools and focuses on developing and leading innovative curricula as well as professional development.
• Transformative School Leadership: The transformative school leadership concentration provides innovative opportunities for experienced education professionals who are current and aspiring leaders of early childhood centers, public or private schools, or school districts. The concentration prepares students to lead and transform educational spaces and be equipped to shape the needs of education in K-12, higher education, organizational contexts, and beyond.
• Workplace Learning: The workplace learning concentration helps professionals gain a deeper understanding of, recognize, and influence real-life social inequalities faced by marginalized populations in the workplace. Courses allow students to advance their professional practice by developing and deepening their knowledge of workplace learning, organizational dynamics, learning strategy, and ethics.
• Integrative Studies: The integrative studies concentration provides an opportunity for students to design a program of study that fits their own professional goals and includes the required foundation and research courses, concentration courses from any EdD concentration, and electives from the Doctor of Education or Doctor of Law and Policy programs.

Program Objectives

Northeastern's Doctor of Education program is designed for experienced professionals interested in deepening their understanding of education, organizational development, and leadership. Throughout the program, students examine various approaches to critical, practice-based issues, learn research methods, and conduct a doctoral research study that investigates a compelling educational or organizational challenge.

2022-2023 Doctor of Education Program of the Year

The Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate selected Northeastern's EdD program as the 2022-2023 Program of the Year, noting the “redesigned Dissertation in Practice Curriculum and the adoption of action research as its guiding methodology …” The committee praised “the program’s efforts to move beyond the typical five-chapter dissertation and engage scholarly practitioners in the acquisition of skills to realize meaningful change in their local contexts, emphasizing social justice.”

Testimonials

– sara ewell, phd, assistant dean, graduate school of education, – frawn morgan, current student, doctor of education, – aaron b., program graduate, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• Academic transcripts: Official undergraduate and graduate degree documentation
• Describe the problem of practice
• Explain why you want to investigate it
• Provide a strong rationale for the significance of the problem
• Minimum work experience: Three years in a related field
• Professional resumé: Must summarize work and education history, include an outline of your educational/academic skills with examples such as research and teaching experience, affiliations, publications, certifications, presentations, and other professional skills.
• Faculty recommendation: Must be from a faculty member in your previous graduate program who can attest to your readiness for doctoral work. If you are no longer acquainted with a faculty member, please choose a professional who can speak of your academic capabilities to engage in doctoral-level research and writing. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Two professional recommendations: Must be from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities, a supervisor, mentor, or colleague. It is preferred that one letter of recommendation come from your current employer and/or supervisor. Recommendations should be presented as a letter attached to the general recommendation form.
• Proof of English language proficiency: ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

The core of the mission of the program is to allow educators to remain in the places they work, focus on a problem of practice, and through experiential learning and site-specific research opportunities in the program, make an immediate impact in their professional environments. The program explicitly integrates research and practice for professionals so they develop the requisite skills for conceiving, designing, conducting, and producing original site-based research in order to effect ethical change related to real-life problems of practice.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Joseph McNabb, PhD

Cherese Childers-McKee, PhD

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Education & Learning alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Boston Public Schools
• Chicago Public Schools
• NYC Department of Education
• Lockheed Martin
• Veterans Affairs
• Johns Hopkins
• Columbia University

What They Do

• Media Consultant
• College President
• Chief Information Officer
• Instructional Designer
• Diversity Officer
• Founder-CEO
• VP of Student Services
• Community Services Director

What They're Skilled At

• Experiential Learning
• Team Building
• International Education
• Change Agency
• Entrepreneurship
• Urban Education
• Strategic Management
• Student Engagement

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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2024 Fully Funded Online PhD Programs [Doctorate Guide]

If the cost of an advanced degree has discouraged you from furthering your education, fully funded online PhD programs may be the answer.

These doctoral programs provide students with the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills in their field without paying high out-of-pocket expenses. They typically cover your tuition and may also pay for fees, living expenses, and course materials.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Schools offer affordable PhD programs in many specializations, so students can pursue their goals no matter their area of interest. Earning a free doctorate degree online could help you grow your career prospects and become an expert in your field.

Universities Offering Fully Funded PhD Degree Program Online

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer fully funded PhD programs online or in a hybrid format.

Boston University

Boston University typically offers free tuition, a stipend, and a health insurance credit to eligible PhD students. Students have 5 years to complete a PhD program. Funding details are based on the specific program. Programs include Behavioral Neuroscience, Astronomy, and Theological Studies. Most programs are available online and on campus.

Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Brown University

PhD students at Brown University may be eligible for financial support, including free tuition, a stipend, and medical assistance. Brown requires participation in a teaching assistantship, fellowship, or research assistantship to be eligible for these benefits. These benefits are available for 5 to 6 years. Programs include Anthropology, Political Science, and Physics.

Brown University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University works with students to make getting a hybrid PhD more affordable. Those who have earned a master’s through Johns Hopkins may be eligible for free tuition and a stipend for 3 years, while transfer students may be eligible for 4 years. Programs include International Policy and Regions of the world.

Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

New York University

New York University PhD students may be eligible for funding, including full tuition, stipends, and health insurance credits. Aid is typically available for up to 5 years. NYU currently offers a PhD in Hebrew and Judaic Studies, with the option to add a History degree.

New York University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Northwestern University

PhD students at Northwestern University usually receive total funding for at least 5 years. Students who wish to earn more can take on teaching or research assistant roles. Courses are in quarter semesters and are offered 4 times each year. Northwestern offers over 60 PhDs, including Music and Linguistics.

Northwestern University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Temple University

Temple University offers full tuition remission and a stipend to all eligible PhD students. Programs require participation in research or teaching assistant projects for up to 20 hours each week to receive this funding. The funding is renewable for up to 5 years. Programs include Business Administration, Statistics, and Decision Neuroscience.

Temple University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University at Buffalo

The University at Buffalo’s PhD Excellence Initiative helps highly qualified students earn a fully-funded PhD Students work as a research or teaching assistant in exchange for a yearly stipend. UB offers multiple PhD programs online including Nursing and Information Science. All courses are completed online with synchronous and asynchronous coursework.

The University at Buffalo is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Michigan

The University of Michigan provides several opportunities to fun joint PhD programs in Social Work and Social Science. Students work as teaching or research assistants and receive tuition, a stipend, and healthcare. Students are eligible for up to 5 years and may not work over 10 hours per week outside of university commitments.

The University of Michigan is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University offers the opportunity to earn a PhD in Nursing. The school offers full tuition and a stipend for up to 4 years of the program. Most of the program is online with a short residency required each semester. The program begins each fall and follows a semester schedule.

Vanderbilt University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Yale University

PhD students at Yale University may have tuition covered along with a 12 month stipend. These services are available for up to 5 years. There is also the possibility of funding for an additional year. Programs include Environmental Science and Comparative Literature.

Yale University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Fully Funded Online PhD Programs

Earning a fully funded PhD online sounds like it’s too good to be true, but it’s a realistic possibility if you’re prepared to invest time and effort into the application process and your studies.

Most colleges and universities require students to hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to enroll in a PhD program. Others will only accept students who have earned a master’s degree in a relevant field. Professional experience may also help strengthen your application.

If you’re admitted to a fully funded online PhD program, you’ll have the chance to earn your degree without taking out excessive loans. Many of these doctoral degree programs pay for most or all of the costs of attendance—including tuition, fees, and living expenses.

In exchange for this funding, some programs employ students as teaching or research assistants. In these roles, PhD candidates provide support to current faculty and balance this work with their own classes and research.

An online PhD may help prepare you for a career with desirable employers, such as:

• Colleges and universities
• Research labs
• Government agencies
• Private businesses
• Healthcare facilities

These organizations hire graduates of PhD programs to work in prominent roles, including analysts, researchers, policy developers, and engineers. If you’re currently working in your field of choice, a PhD may also help you advance into a position as an executive or administrator.

Many graduates of these programs also work in higher education as professors, academic deans, and presidents. A PhD helps you build a foundation of knowledge that allows you to conduct research and teach upcoming undergraduate and graduate students.

PhD Careers & Salaries

You can earn a PhD in a wide range of fields, and the degree you complete will determine what career paths are available. Many job paths for PhDs offer healthy salaries and opportunities for advancement.

Students often enroll in PhD programs because they want to enter academia. Universities typically require that college professors have a PhD and are capable of conducting advanced research and publishing articles and books related to their work.

A PhD is also an asset if you hope to build a career in science or technology. These specialized fields involve the sophisticated skills and technical knowledge that a PhD program typically provides.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , these are some of the most common careers for graduates of PhD programs, depending on their specialty.

In addition to paying above-average salaries, many of these careers are also expected to experience accelerated growth. For instance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected growth rate for epidemiologists over the next ten years is 26%.

The growth rates for computer and information research scientists (21%), medical scientists (17%), and postsecondary teachers (12%) over this period are also much higher than the average rate for all occupations.

How to Get a Fully Funded PhD Program Online

Gaining admission to a fully funded PhD program can be more challenging than enrolling in bachelor’s or master’s degree programs. Here are some tips to consider:

• Consider STEM programs . PhDs in science, technology, engineering, and math often offer full funding to students. You may have more schools to choose from if you complete a STEM degree.
• Check accreditation status . It’s strategic to avoid any online PhD program that isn’t accredited. A lack of accreditation could indicate that the program is of low quality or will not properly prepare you for the professional world.
• Apply for fellowships or assistantships . International students may qualify for fellowships that pay for tuition and provide a stipend. Many fully funded programs require students to participate in an assistantship focused on teaching or research.
• Fine-tune your application . Most fully funded PhDs only accept a few students for each academic year, and they base their admissions on your application materials. It’s beneficial to look closely at each program’s requirements and adhere to them as closely as possible.

When you research fully funded PhDs, be wary of any program that makes exaggerated promises or cannot provide job placement or graduation data for recent students.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Fully Funded Online Doctoral Programs

Prospective PhD students may struggle to decide whether a fully funded program is the right path. Fully funded online doctoral programs offer a variety of benefits and drawbacks, including:

When deciding whether a fully funded online PhD is a good fit for you, you might consider your learning style, preferences, and goals.

Admissions Requirements

Fully funded PhD programs are usually selective, so it’s important to carefully follow their application process. Admissions requirements for online PhD programs for working professionals may include:

• Test scores . While it’s not always required, some schools have you submit current scores from the GRE or other standardized tests.
• Transcripts . Request official transcripts from schools you previously attended, including undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Statement of purpose . You can describe your motivation for pursuing a PhD, why you selected this particular program, and your specific research interests.
• Recommendations . You can ask former professors or supervisors to explain why you would excel in an online PhD program.
• CV . It’s beneficial to list all relevant professional, publishing, and volunteer experience.

Some universities also require students to participate in a virtual interview or provide a portfolio that demonstrates the strength of their past work.

Fully Funded PhD Programs Online Accreditation

When selecting an online PhD program, it’s vital to determine whether it has regional accreditation . Some online schools offer degrees with little to no academic value, but a regionally accredited institution must meet certain standards of excellence.

Attending a program that has met the high bar of a regional accrediting board usually provides you with a better educational experience that includes the most current practices and theories in the field. For this reason, most employers only accept PhDs from accredited schools.

If you end up changing programs before graduating, it’s generally easier to transfer credits from programs with regional accreditation.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

The cost of PhD program tuition varies widely based on the school you attend. Rates generally range from $500 to $2,000 per credit hour. In addition, students often have to pay for materials and fees on top of their base tuition.

A PhD program could range between 60 and 120 required credits, so the total cost of tuition and fees could easily reach top dollar. A fully funded PhD reduces or removes much of this cost by allowing students to complete their degrees without paying tuition.

What Does Fully Funded Mean?

Fully funded means that a PhD student doesn’t pay any of the costs of attending a doctoral program. This generally includes all tuition and fees required for full-time enrollment in the program. In many cases, the university covers these costs. Students may also receive funding from private businesses or sponsors.

To ensure that students can focus solely on their studies during the program, a fully funded PhD may also include a stipend to cover living expenses and housing. Some colleges require students to complete teaching or research assistantships to receive their funding.

What Is Funded in Fully Funded Doctorate Programs?

A fully funded PhD program essentially covers the costs associated with attending school. This typically includes:

• Full-time tuition for the duration of the program
• Fees required by the university
• Living and housing expenses
• School-provided health insurance

This funding is usually only provided for 3 to 5 years of study. This helps ensure that students complete their programs in a timely manner. If a fully funded PhD doesn’t completely address the cost of a student’s degree, the school may also offer additional financial opportunities. Scholarships, grants, and loans are possible avenues to fill the gaps in funding.

What Can You Get a PhD in?

There are PhD programs available for practically every field. Popular doctoral specializations include:

• Educational administration and leadership
• Physical therapy
• Electrical engineering

Although there are PhD programs available for each of these disciplines, some may be more suitable for online study. A PhD program that involves hands-on learning or lab work may not be as ideal for an online format.

Some online PhD programs that require in-person components allow students to participate in fieldwork in their communities. Other disciplines that focus primarily on research and writing can more easily be completed online.

What Are Some of the Highest Paying PhDs?

Your future earnings ultimately depend on your employer, geographic location, and professional experience, but some PhDs tend to have better pay than others.

Many of the highest paying PhDs are related to science. For example, medical scientists earn median annual salaries of $95,310, physicists make a median of $152,430, and the median for computer and information research scientists is $131,490 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Postsecondary education administrators also have competitive salaries, with median earnings of $96,910 per year.

Depending on their specific field and whether they have tenure, college professors may earn salaries above six figures. For example, $104,940 is the median salary for engineering professors.

What’s the Difference Between a Doctorate vs. PhD Degree?

People sometimes use the terms doctorate and PhD interchangeably, but there are differences between them.

All PhD programs are doctorates, but not all doctorates are PhDs.

Getting Your Fully Funded PhD Online

Earning a fully funded PhD online can open doors to new career opportunities that are professionally and personally rewarding, all without draining your financial resources.

This type of PhD may cover your tuition, fees, and expenses, allowing you to graduate with very little debt. Because they offer low-cost or no-cost degrees, universities with fully funded PhDs tend to enroll a small number of students with proven skills and experience in the field.

Once you decide that you want to earn a fully funded degree, you can begin by researching accredited universities that offer free PhD programs online.

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Additional Information

• Download the Doctoral Viewbook
• Admissions & Aid

The Harvard Ph.D. in Education trains cutting-edge researchers who work across disciplines to generate knowledge and translate discoveries into transformative policy and practice.

Offered jointly by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the Ph.D. in Education provides you with full access to the extraordinary resources of Harvard University and prepares you to assume meaningful roles as university faculty, researchers, senior-level education leaders, and policymakers.

As a Ph.D. candidate, you will collaborate with scholars across all Harvard graduate schools on original interdisciplinary research. In the process, you will help forge new fields of inquiry that will impact the way we teach and learn. The program’s required coursework will develop your knowledge of education and your expertise in a range of quantitative and qualitative methods needed to conduct high-quality research. Guided by the goal of making a transformative impact on education research, policy, and practice, you will focus on independent research in various domains, including human development, learning and teaching, policy analysis and evaluation, institutions and society, and instructional practice.   

Curriculum Information

The Ph.D. in Education requires five years of full-time study to complete. You will choose your individual coursework and design your original research in close consultation with your HGSE faculty adviser and dissertation committee. The requirements listed below include the three Ph.D. concentrations: Culture, Institutions, and Society; Education Policy and Program Evaluation; and Human Development, Learning and Teaching . 

We invite you to review an example course list, which is provided in two formats — one as the full list by course number and one by broad course category . These lists are subject to modification. 

Ph.D. Concentrations and Examples

Summary of Ph.D. Program

Doctoral Colloquia  In year one and two you are required to attend. The colloquia convenes weekly and features presentations of work-in-progress and completed work by Harvard faculty, faculty and researchers from outside Harvard, and Harvard doctoral students. Ph.D. students present once in the colloquia over the course of their career.

Research Apprenticeship The Research Apprenticeship is designed to provide ongoing training and mentoring to develop your research skills throughout the entire program.

Teaching Fellowships The Teaching Fellowship is an opportunity to enhance students' teaching skills, promote learning consolidation, and provide opportunities to collaborate with faculty on pedagogical development.

Comprehensive Exams  The Written Exam (year 2, spring) tests you on both general and concentration-specific knowledge. The Oral Exam (year 3, fall/winter) tests your command of your chosen field of study and your ability to design, develop, and implement an original research project.

Dissertation  Based on your original research, the dissertation process consists of three parts: the Dissertation Proposal, the writing, and an oral defense before the members of your dissertation committee.

Culture, Institutions, and Society (CIS) Concentration

In CIS, you will examine the broader cultural, institutional, organizational, and social contexts relevant to education across the lifespan. What is the value and purpose of education? How do cultural, institutional, and social factors shape educational processes and outcomes? How effective are social movements and community action in education reform? How do we measure stratification and institutional inequality? In CIS, your work will be informed by theories and methods from sociology, history, political science, organizational behavior and management, philosophy, and anthropology. You can examine contexts as diverse as classrooms, families, neighborhoods, schools, colleges and universities, religious institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, and more.

Education Policy and Program Evaluation (EPPE) Concentration

In EPPE, you will research the design, implementation, and evaluation of education policy affecting early childhood, K–12, and postsecondary education in the U.S. and internationally. You will evaluate and assess individual programs and policies related to critical issues like access to education, teacher effectiveness, school finance, testing and accountability systems, school choice, financial aid, college enrollment and persistence, and more. Your work will be informed by theories and methods from economics, political science, public policy, and sociology, history, philosophy, and statistics. This concentration shares some themes with CIS, but your work with EPPE will focus on public policy and large-scale reforms.

Human Development, Learning and Teaching (HDLT) Concentration

In HDLT, you will work to advance the role of scientific research in education policy, reform, and practice. New discoveries in the science of learning and development — the integration of biological, cognitive, and social processes; the relationships between technology and learning; or the factors that influence individual variations in learning — are transforming the practice of teaching and learning in both formal and informal settings. Whether studying behavioral, cognitive, or social-emotional development in children or the design of learning technologies to maximize understanding, you will gain a strong background in human development, the science of learning, and sociocultural factors that explain variation in learning and developmental pathways. Your research will be informed by theories and methods from psychology, cognitive science, sociology and linguistics, philosophy, the biological sciences and mathematics, and organizational behavior.

Program Faculty

The most remarkable thing about the Ph.D. in Education is open access to faculty from all Harvard graduate and professional schools, including the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Harvard Kennedy School, the Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and the Harvard School of Public Health. Learn about the full Ph.D. Faculty.

Jarvis R. Givens

Jarvis Givens studies the history of American education, African American history, and the relationship between race and power in schools.

Paul L. Harris

Paul Harris is interested in the early development of cognition, emotion, and imagination in children.

Meira Levinson

Meira Levinson is a normative political philosopher who works at the intersection of civic education, youth empowerment, racial justice, and educational ethics. 

Luke W. Miratrix

Luke Miratrix is a statistician who explores how to best use modern statistical methods in applied social science contexts.

Eric Taylor

Eric Taylor studies the economics of education, with a particular interest in employer-employee interactions between schools and teachers — hiring and firing decisions, job design, training, and performance evaluation.

Paola Uccelli

Paola Ucelli studies socio-cultural and individual differences in the language development of multilingual and monolingual students.

View Ph.D. Faculty

Dissertations.

The following is a complete listing of successful Ph.D. in Education dissertations to-date. Dissertations from November 2014 onward are publicly available in the Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH) , the online repository for Harvard scholarship.

• 2022 Graduate Dissertations (265 KB pdf)
• 2021 Graduate Dissertations (177 KB pdf)
• 2020 Graduate Dissertations (121 KB pdf)
• 2019 Graduate Dissertations (68.3 KB pdf)

Student Directory

An opt-in listing of current Ph.D. students with information about their interests, research, personal web pages, and contact information:

Doctor of Philosophy in Education Student Directory

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Doctor of Philosophy in Education experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Reshaping Teacher Licensure: Lessons from the Pandemic

Olivia Chi, Ed.M.'17, Ph.D.'20, discusses the ongoing efforts to ensure the quality and stability of the teaching workforce

Lost in Translation

New comparative study from Ph.D. candidate Maya Alkateb-Chami finds strong correlation between low literacy outcomes for children and schools teaching in different language from home

Hand-Picked Top-Read Stories

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Getting a Ph.D. online is an attractive option for students who don’t want to give up on their professional and personal obligations. With an online program, you can improve your skills, conduct relevant research, and communicate with academic advisors without leaving the comfort of your own home.

While conducted entirely or partially online, these Ph.D. programs aren’t less expensive than on-campus programs. Even though you don’t need to invest in relocation and transportation, you still have to pay the tuition and relevant fees.

If you want to minimize expenses, you can consider choosing a fully funded online PhD program. While the choice is not big, there are possibilities for students who can’t cover the tuition.

Let’s take a closer look at the top fully funded online PhD program.

For many people, the dream of pursuing a doctoral degree without incurring a mountain of debt may seem like an unattainable goal. However, the possibility of enrolling in a fully funded online PhD program is very much a reality. With the advancement of technology and the growing recognition of online education, universities are now offering fully funded options for distance learning programs.

One of the main advantages of fully funded doctorate programs is the financial support they provide. They can cover tuition fees and provide a stipend to cover living expenses. This financial assistance allows students to focus solely on their studies without the burden of financial stress. It opens doors for individuals who may not have had the means to pursue a Ph.D. otherwise.

Another benefit of fully funded online PhD programs is the flexibility they offer. Online learning allows students to tailor their study schedules to fit their commitments. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for those who wish to continue working while pursuing their doctoral degree. It allows you to balance academic pursuits with existing responsibilities.

Fully funded online PhD programs provide the opportunity for students to connect and collaborate with renowned faculty members. Contrary to a common misconception, online studies don’t eliminate networking opportunities. You can achieve the same collaboration, studying, and networking goals as you would with offline learning.

These programs may have specific admission requirements and competitive selection processes. They are mostly accessible to dedicated and motivated individuals. Strong academic credentials, a compelling research proposal, and relevant professional experience can increase the likelihood of acceptance.

How to Find a Fully Funded Online PhD Program

Since fully funded online PhD programs aren’t available in many schools, the search for such an option can be complicated. Knowing what to look for can help you ensure the success of your studies and prevent unexpected expenses.

Start by researching reputable universities that offer fully funded online PhD programs in your field of interest. Look for universities that are regionally accredited and have a strong reputation for their doctoral programs.  

Proper accreditation means that the institution meets certain quality standards. Whether you plan to use your Ph.D. to advance your career or publish articles, the accreditation of the university can play a significant role.

Fully funded doctorate programs often come with various funding opportunities, including:

• Scholarships
• Assistantships
• Fellowships

Explore the financial aid options provided by each program and determine the level of support they offer. Look for programs that cover tuition fees and provide a stipend to cover living expenses. In most cases, information is readily available on the university’s website. Alternatively, you can get it by contacting the admissions or financial aid office.

Review the admission requirements and eligibility criteria for each fully funded online doctorate program on your list. Ensure that you meet the academic prerequisites, including GPA, standardized test scores, and relevant work experience.

Pay special attention to the program’s specific requirements, such as research proposal guidelines or prerequisite coursework. Many schools that offer funding have stringent admissions requirements.

Reach out to faculty members and current students in the program to gain insights into the funding opportunities and other program-related information. This can give you a better understanding of the program’s strengths, faculty expertise, and research opportunities.

Faculty members are often willing to answer questions and provide guidance to prospective students. Their insight can help you make an informed decision.

Evaluate the program’s structure and flexibility to make sure that it aligns with your preferences. Look for programs that offer synchronous or asynchronous learning formats. Is it more convenient for you to attend live classes online? Or do you prefer to listen to recorded lectures when you have free time?

Consider the level of interaction with faculty and peers, as well as any residency requirements or on-campus components. Not all online PhD programs are fully remote. Some require visiting the campus several times a year.

Examine the program’s outcomes and success rates, including graduation rates, job placement rates, and alumni achievements. This information can give you an idea of the program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for their desired career paths. Look for programs that have a strong track record of producing successful Ph.D. graduates in your field of interest.

Reach out to your academic advisors, mentors, or professionals in your field for guidance and recommendations. They may have valuable insights or connections that can help you find suitable funding opportunities.

Admissions Requirements for Fully Funded Online PhD Programs

Applying to fully funded online doctoral degree programs requires careful attention to the specific admissions requirements. They are often more stringent compared to non-funded programs. The limited funding resources are allocated to the most deserving and qualified candidates.

Requirements you may be facing when searching for the best fully-funded online education program include:

Fully funded online doctoral programs welcome applicants with a strong academic background. This includes a minimum GPA requirement, usually ranging from 3.0 to 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Some online programs may require specific prerequisite coursework.

Many fully funded online doctoral degree programs require applicants to submit standardized test scores. The most commonly accepted tests are the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test).

These tests demonstrate your readiness for advanced academic study. The scores required for admissions can be different for each school. You would need to request this information from the admissions office.

A research proposal includes the research topic or area of interest that you plan to pursue during your doctoral studies. The proposal should demonstrate a clear understanding of the research problem, objectives, methodology, and potential contributions to the field.

The university of your choice will likely require you to submit letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can confirm your qualifications and readiness for doctorate studies.

Depending on the university, they may ask for one, two, or three letters. The more letters you can get from your past professors, advisors, or employers, the better.

A well-crafted statement of purpose gives you an opportunity to describe your academic and career goals, research interests, and reasons for pursuing a doctoral degree. It should demonstrate your passion for the chosen field and readiness for advanced research.

The majority of fully funded PhDs programs will want you to share relevant work experience, particularly for professional or practice-based doctoral programs. This experience can demonstrate your practical knowledge and ability to apply your skills to the related field.

Overall, you would have to demonstrate that you are worth the investment the university is making in your studies. To provide funding, they have to be sure that it will pay off .

How Much Does a Ph.D. Cost?

The costs of a Ph.D. program can vary depending on multiple factors. The one thing is clear. There aren’t any inexpensive options. The effort that goes into helping a person get a Ph.D. is tremendous, hence the price.

The type of institution offering the program can influence the cost. Public universities often have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. Meanwhile, the reputation and ranking of the university may also affect the price tag. More prestigious universities often charge higher tuition fees.

Some disciplines, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), may have higher costs due to the need for specialized equipment, laboratory access, or research materials. On the other hand, humanities or social sciences education programs can have lower costs since they usually require fewer resources.

Ph.D. programs can vary in length. The majority of them last three to seven years. Longer programs also may result in higher costs due to additional tuition fees.

If you can’t handle the cost of a Ph.D. program, you can explore different funding options. In the majority of cases, reputable educational institutions help their potential PhD students seek funding. With the right approach, it’s possible to get a doctorate practically free.

When searching for a strong, fully funded online PhD Program, consider the following schools:

Indiana University Bloomington has a wide selection of doctorate programs that can be completed online. They include:

• Art Education: Curriculum and Instruction, EdD
• Science Education: Curriculum and Instruction, EdD
• Curriculum and Instruction: Mathematics Education, EdD
• Educational Leadership, EdS
• Instructional Systems Technology, EdD
• Literacy, Culture, and Language Education, EdD
• Music Therapy, Ph.D.
• Nursing Practice, DNP
• Nursing Science, Ph.D.
• Philanthropic Leadership, PhilD
• Public Health, Global Health Leadership, DrPH
• School Psychology, EdS

To cover your tuition at Indiana University, you can explore the Dean’s Fellowship, Faculty Doctoral Fellowship, and Malvina McNeill Fellowship .

The school is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Michigan State University has strong online and hybrid Ph.D. programs. If you choose this school, you can explore:

• Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, BSN-DNP
• Nurse Practitioner, DNP
• Nursing – Post Master’s DNP

To cover your tuition, you can take advantage of multiple scholarship options provided by this university. They don’t make any distinctions between offline and online students.

If you are looking to get a fully funded Ph.D. online, you can consider George Washington University. Its programs include:

• Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.) in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
• Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.) in Cybersecurity Analytics
• Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.) in Engineering Management
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Systems Engineering

The university provides various tuition funding opportunities and multiple scholarship resources.

The school is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Franklin University allows its students to complete fast online Ph.D. programs that include:

• Doctor of Business Administration
• Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership-Organizational Leadership Focus
• Doctor of Healthcare Administration
• Doctor Of Professional Studies – Instructional Design Leadership

The university makes it easy to fund your learning process by helping you apply for financial aid without any common hassles. Many students take advantage of this assistance to source the necessary funding.

At the University of Dayton, you can become a doctor of education in leadership for organizations . This program only takes 36 months.

To get financial assistance, you can explore multiple scholarship opportunities provided by the university. To have a chance for full funding, you would need to demonstrate exceptional skills and knowledge that can contribute to the field of your studies. The university will help you apply for financial aid.

When you are planning to get a Ph.D., you have to consider the numerous expenses that go into completing the program. Some universities and scholarship programs are willing to make your online education easier. To do that, you would have to explore the available opportunities while browsing the best online Ph.D. programs for your needs.

Keep in mind that only a limited number of programs offer full funding. However, you can find some schools that provide partial financial help.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

2024 Best Fully Funded Online PhD Programs [Doctoral Guide]

In a world where education is a cornerstone of personal and professional development, fully funded online PhD programs stand out as beacons of opportunity. They offer a gateway to advanced knowledge without the burden of financial stress.

These programs not only promise to cover your tuition but may also provide stipends, making it possible for you to focus on your studies and research. From explaining what “fully funded” really means to helping to navigate you through the sea of requirements and options, we’re here to guide you.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

We’ll explore how these programs work, what you can expect, and how to get a PhD without a financial headache.

Fully Funded PhD Programs Online

Diving into the realm of fully funded online PhD programs may allow you to turn the dream of obtaining a doctorate without financial burdens into a palpable reality. Imagine embarking on this highest level of academic pursuit with tuition, fees, and even living expenses covered.

This model is a game-changer, especially when compared to traditional PhD funding models, where juggling teaching assistantships, research, and external employment is often necessary.

Fully Funded PhD Programs: The Essentials

• Tuition and fees are covered in full, so you can focus on your studies without financial stress.
• PhD stipends provide regular payments to support your living expenses, making it easier to commit to your research full-time.
• Additional perks are often offered, such as funding for travel, research materials, and possibly health insurance.

Traditional PhD Funding Models

• Many students in traditional programs must pay out of pocket or take on loans.
• Some students receive partial scholarships but still need to work or secure additional funding.
• Balancing teaching assistantships and external employment with studies is often challenging.

What sets fully funded programs apart isn’t just the financial relief. It’s the peace of mind that comes with it.

Students can focus solely on their research and studies, rather than worrying about how they’ll afford next semester’s tuition or whether they can make rent while finishing their dissertation. This focused environment can significantly enhance both the quality and speed of academic achievement.

Interestingly, a report from the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) highlights an encouraging trend. Most doctorate recipients in fields outside of psychology report holding absolutely no debt related to their graduate education.

This statistic underscores the impact of fully funded programs in making debt-free doctorates a reality for many students. It’s crucial to note, though, that not all fully funded programs are created equal, and the specifics can vary widely between institutions. Some cover just the basics, while others include generous stipends, travel grants, and research funding.

The key is to find a program that not only fits your academic and research interests but also offers the level of funding that meets your needs.

Funding Your Doctorate Degree

While the road to funding your online PhD can appear daunting, the presence of numerous options may make it unexpectedly smooth. With the right awards and financial aid, you may even be able to earn a free doctorate degree online.

Here are a few ways you may be able to fund your degree:

• Scholarships : Scholarships for PhD students can help cut down tuition costs significantly. These awards don’t require repayment and are often offered based on achievements or background.
• Grants : Like scholarships, grants offer free money, usually based on financial need.
• Fellowships : Offering more than just tuition coverage, fellowships can provide stipends for living expenses.
• Work-study and assistantships : These provide an opportunity to engage in teaching or research roles that not only waive tuition fees but also provide invaluable experience.

Many students use a blend of these types of funding to pursue their degrees. According to the NCSES, these are the primary sources of support for doctorate recipients.

The right funding can help make achieving your doctoral degree a reality. You can start opening the doors to these opportunities by completing the FAFSA .

Admissions for Fully Funded Doctoral Programs

Embarking on a fully funded online PhD journey requires navigating through a set of eligibility criteria and admission requirements. Here’s a snapshot of what you’ll likely need to get your application noticed:

• Bachelor’s degree : This is a foundational requirement, signaling your readiness for advanced study.
• Master’s degree : While not always required, possessing a master’s degree can enhance your application, especially in fields where advanced coursework or research experience gained during a master’s program is valued.
• GRE scores : Many programs still value these scores as a measure of your academic abilities.
• Recommendation letters : Many applications require statements from mentors or professors who can vouch for your potential.
• Statement of purpose : This is your chance to articulate your academic interests, research goals, and why you’re a perfect fit for the program.

Having a strong academic record is crucial, but your clear, compelling research goals can truly set you apart. They show programs exactly why you belong in their incoming doctoral cohort.

Advantages of Fully Funded Online PhD Programs

Diving into a fully funded online PhD offers many potential benefits that can help make your academic journey rewarding and manageable.

These are some common advantages of a fully funded online PhD program:

• No need to relocate : An online program allows you to study from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Financial relief : Tuition costs and maybe even some living expenses may be covered.
• Flexibility : It is typically easier to balance studies with personal and professional commitments
• Enhanced career prospects : According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , higher education correlates with lower unemployment rates and increased earnings.

Fully funded online PhD programs offer a blend of convenience, financial savings, and flexibility that can help open the doors to academic and professional growth.

Addressing Challenges and Considerations

While the potential perks of pursuing a fully funded online PhD are substantial, it’s important to consider the challenges that may come from pursuing one of these programs.

Here are some potential drawbacks of fully funded online PhD programs to consider:

• Competitive admission : The application process for these programs is typically extremely competitive due to high demand.
• Requires self-discipline : Your success will depend on your ability to manage time effectively and stay motivated without a traditional classroom structure.
• Potential for isolation : Limited face-to-face interaction may lead to feelings of isolation from peers and mentors.

Awareness of these disadvantages is key to preparing for a fully funded online PhD program. With a proactive approach, these hurdles can be overcome. According to the US Census Bureau , in 2022, 14% of US adults 25 and older were able to overcome the challenges and earn degrees beyond a bachelor’s.

What Can You Get a PhD In?

Deciding to pursue a PhD opens a world of possibilities, and you’ll likely have many options to explore when finding the program perfectly tailored to your passions and career ambitions.

According to the Survey of Earned Doctorates , these are some common fields that people pursue PhDs in:

• Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
• Health and medicine
• Social sciences and humanities
• Business and management

Each of these fields offers unique paths to building your expertise and chances to make an impact in your chosen field. Whether you’re drawn to the intricacies of molecular biology or the complexities of human behavior, there’s likely a PhD program out there for you.

How Can I Find Fully Funded Online PhD Programs in a Specific Field of Study?

With a bit of careful planning, your journey toward finding free PhD programs online can feel less like a dream and more within reach.

Here are some tips for starting your search:

• Research : Start by compiling a list of programs that interest you. Websites like US News offer rankings and details that can help narrow down your options.
• University websites : Dive into specific university pages for detailed program and funding information.
• Networking : Reach out to current students or alumni for insights on their experiences.
• Academic advisors : Consult with advisors or faculty members in your field for recommendations and guidance.

According to US News, the effort you put into searching for the right program can significantly pay off in your academic and career success.

Universities Offering Fully Funded PhD Degree Programs Online

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer fully funded PhD programs online or in a hybrid format.

Barry University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Baylor University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Brown University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Capitol Technology University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

George Washington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Indiana University – Bloomington is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

New York University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Temple University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University at Buffalo is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

The University of Wisconsin – Madison is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Paving Your Way to a Fully Funded Online PhD

Starting your journey toward an online PhD with full funding isn’t just a lofty aspiration—it’s a real possibility.

The world is rich in options and support. You can take the first step toward transforming your future by exploring accredited universities that align with your dreams.

Why wait? You can dive into the possibilities today to find the program that speaks to you, including online PhD programs for working professionals . These programs are designed for flexibility and ease, making it possible for you to manage your career alongside your pursuit of higher education.

Your next big adventure in learning is just around the corner, ready for you to make your mark.

• Majors & Careers
• Online Grad School
• Preparing For Grad School
• Student Life

The Top 9 Fully Funded PhD Programs

If you’re concerned about grad school costs, you’re not alone. Even with financial aid, many students find themselves taking on large amounts of debt. However, there are a number of options that can cover most – if not all – of your doctorate costs.

Table of Contents

What Is a Fully Funded PhD Program?

“Fully funded” means that the university offers sufficient funding to cover tuition fees and even a stipend to cover other grad school expenses . To cover gaps, many institutions offer additional support in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and employment opportunities.

Though rare, some PhD programs offer full funding for all accepted students. Understandably, the admission process is highly competitive for fully funded PhD programs.

Students who don’t meet strict criteria – and aren’t offered full funding – will be expected to pay for their tuition and other study expenses. Most take some form of government funding to do so.

The Top 9 Fully Funded PhD Programs in the US

1. the university of chicago, the department of anthropology, phd in anthropology.

• Courses : Development of Social/Cultural Theory, Archeological Theory & method, and archeological data sets.
• Credits : 18 courses
• Delivery : On-campus
• Full funding : Full tuition, health insurance, and stipend (up to 9 years).
• Other support : Grants, fellowships, and teaching opportunities.
• Acceptance rate : 2.5%
• Location : Chicago, Illinois

With a culture that encourages independent thinking, the University of Chicago has produced more than 90 Nobel Prize winners and produced defining research in several fields. In this interdisciplinary PhD in Anthropology program, students can study with many of the university’s other departments, including: Political Science, History, and Comparative Human Development.

2. Harvard University, T. H. Chan School of Public Health

Phd program in biological sciences in public health  (bph).

• Courses : Biological sciences communications, principles of biostatistics & epidemiology, and computing environments for biology.
• Duration : Approximately 6 years
• Full funding : Stipend, tuition, and health insurance.
• Other support: Fellowships, awards, and grants.
• Acceptance rate: 6%
• Location:  Boston, Massachusetts

As the third-best university in the US , Harvard’s T. H. Chan School of Public Health has incredible prestige. With several specialized public health departments (e.g., Environmental Health, Health & Population, Epidemiology), this program also offers incredible flexibility. Students can courses from the Department of Public Health, Harvard Integrated Life Sciences (HILS), and even MIT.

3. Stanford University, Graduate School of Education

Phd in curriculum studies and teacher education  (cte).

• Courses: Introduction to statistical methods in education, research in curriculum & teacher education, and statistical analysis in education.
• Credits:  135 units
• Duration: 4-5 years
• Delivery:  On-campus
• Full funding : Tuition aid, assistantship salary, and fellowship stipend (for 5 years).
• Other support : Grants, travel fellowships, and emergency funds.
• Location: Stanford, California

Stanford University tops the list  of the best universities for Education Policy Studies, making this one of the best options if you want to earn a PhD in Education. This doctorate is one of the top fully funded PhD programs in education and offers six specializations, including elementary education, teacher education, and science & environmental education.

Note : In addition to this on-campus PhD program, many recognized institutions also offer free online PhD programs in education .

4. Duke University, Trinity College of Arts and Sciences

Phd in literature.

• Courses: Wide range of literary topics, including African American Studies, modern European short fiction, gender studies, and more.
• Duration: 6-7 years
• Delivery: On-campus
• Full funding  includes: Tuition, fees, stipend, and health insurance.
• Other support: Grants, loans, childcare subsidies, and financial hardship aid.
• Location:  Durham, North Carolina

As one of the country’s most renowned private research institutions, Duke University has ten Nobel Laureates under its belt. Their PhD in Literature program encourages students to pursue both independent studies and inter-institutional courses from other affiliated universities. Students are able to take as many programs outside literature as they wish. Typically, all PhD students receive a “stipend, tuition, and fees support, plus six years of full coverage for health and dental insurance premiums.”

5. Rice University, Jones Graduate School of Business

Phd in business.

• Courses:  Microeconomics, econometrics, theory, and dynamic optimization.
• Duration:  4 years +
• Full funding : Tuition waiver and $40,000 yearly stipend (earned as a research/teaching assistant).
• Other support:  Scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment.
• Location: Houston, Texas

Rice University is a well-known institution and is regularly recognized as one of the best business schools in the country. As part of its PhD in Business program, students can choose between one of four different concentrations: accounting, finance, organizational behavior, and strategic management.

Northwestern University, McCormick School of Engineering

Phd in biomedical engineering.

• Courses:  Experimental design & measurement, biological performance of materials, and advanced physical & applied optics.
• Duration: 5-6 years
• Full funding : Tuition scholarship and stipend.
• Other support: Fellowships, grants, assistantships, loans, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 15%
• Location: Evanston, Illinois

Northwestern University is renowned for excellence across numerous disciplines, and its biomedical engineering (BME) program was among the first of its kind. The school offers a wide range of courses, from cell and molecular engineering, medical devices and instrumental, neural engineering, and more.

7. Columbia University, Teachers College

Phd in clinical psychology.

• Courses:  Brain & behavior, social problems for clinical psychologists, and personality & behavior change.
• Credits: 95
• Duration: 5 years (at least four years of residency)
• Full funding : Tuition, stipend, and health fees (up to 4 years).
• Other support:  Scholarships, grants, fellowships, federal work-study, assistantships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate:  7%
• Location:  New York City, New York

Columbia University offers a leading clinical psychology PhD program that focuses on the intersection between education, psychology, and health. Their fully funded, need-blind “Doctoral Fellowship” is given to incoming students for three years, in addition to financial aid in the fourth year (i.e., a $25,000 stipend). PhD students who receive this scholarship may be asked to work as research assistants or graduate teachers.

8. California Institute of Technology, Division of Engineering & Applied Science

Graduate degree in computer science.

• Courses:  Functional programming, computability theory, and advanced digital systems design.
• Credits: 54 units
• Duration: 3+ years of residence
• Full funding : Tuition charges and stipends.
• Other support: Grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
• Acceptance rate: 7%
• Location: Pasadena, California

Caltech is a huge name in technology education, with over fifty cutting-edge research centers and laboratories. This includes NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and astronomical observatories around the globe. To manage their rigorous course load, graduate students of the computer science program receive full tuition and a stipend of $45,000 .

9. Emory University, College of Arts and Sciences

Ph.D. in Economics

• Courses: Microeconomic theory, health economics, and market structure & imperfect competition.
• Credits: 55
• Duration: 4-6 years
• Full funding : Tuition, stipend, health insurance subsidy, and professional development support.
• Other support:  Grants, scholarships, loans, and student employment.
• Acceptance rate: 19%
• Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Emory University provides a liberal arts college’s atmosphere and opportunities combined with an urban research university’s facilities. This cross-registration program allows students to take classes at the university’s partner institutions, including Georgia Tech and Georgia State University, alongside their in-house courses.

Can I Earn a Free PhD Degree Online?

If you aren’t eligible for a fully funded program, that’s okay! We’ve written an article outlining the most affordable online PhD programs , the benefits, and how to apply to them!

Key Takeaways

Many US universities – including some of the country’s top institution – offer fully funded PhD programs and tuition-free online programs across various disciplines. You’ll just need to demonstrate that you’re eligible for the program through your academic performance and merit.

Once you qualify for full PhD funding, congratulate yourself on a job well done!

If you’re still weighing your options, did you know there are 1-year PhD programs online ?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a phd be free.

Yes. Eligible students can obtain a doctorate for free if a university offers fully funded PhD programs.

How Do I Get a Fully Funded PhD?

To qualify for a fully funded PhD, you’ll be required to meet certain criteria and put together a strong application. You’ll also need to have an excellent undergraduate academic record, recommendation letters, persuasive personal essay, and graduate school entry exam scores .

Fully funded PhDs are incredibly competitive, so it’s important to plan ahead. As an undergraduate student, identify your dream school, and be sure to check the requirements and eligibility criteria. Next, work hard to meet these requirements – and set yourself apart – throughout your undergraduate studies.

Can I Study a PhD in the USA for Free?

Yes. Many US universities offer opportunities to obtain a PhD for free. For example, fully funded doctoral programs will cover your tuition and expenses. Free PhD programs don’t have tuition fees but students are responsible for covering their own expenses.

However, if you aren’t successful in securing a fully funded PhD and don’t like the free options, there are plenty of other ways to pay for grad school .

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Top 20 Fully Funded PhDs in Education

Phd program rankings.

• Fully Funded PhDs in Education
• Doctor of Nursing Education
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• Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
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• Speech-Language Pathology (CScD)
• Criminology (D.Crim.)
• Economics (DEc)
• Health Science (D.H.S./D.H.Sci)
• Library Science (D.L.S.)
• Molecular Biology (Phd Mol Biol)
• Occupational Safety and Health (D.O.S.H.)
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Fully funding one’s Ph.D. means paying nothing out of pocket for one of the most valuable things in the world – a well-trained mind. When studying education, learning about life in its different aspects is a gift that is given to the next generation of children, future teachers, scholars, and researchers.

The 20 schools on this list have gradually become the top education schools in the country with faculty who know what it’s like to succeed…and every Ph.D. program on the list offers full funding.

Methodology

This list of doctoral programs, offering the Top 20 Fully Funded PhDs in Education , gives education professionals needed information on where they can find the best fully funded Ph.D. programs in education to help them expand and enhance their careers as educators and administrators .

The programs are listed in random order. They are not in a ranked order because each program has its own strengths. Consider each program individually to determine which one is right for you.

Each fully funded Ph.D. in education is a quality program. Inclusion in this list is based on the following findings:

• 100% fully funded degree program for high-achieving applicants;
• Coursework is designed to prepare professional educators and education administrators to transition into top positions of education practice and leadership;
• Courses are prepared and delivered by top faculty in a top degree program;
• Appropriately accredited;
• A dissertation will be required.

To delve deeper, please see our Methodology page.

Top Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

Indiana university – bloomington.

Education Program Standouts: The doctor of education programs at the School of Education at Indiana University – Bloomington are some of the highest-ranking graduate education programs included in both US News and World Report as well as Times Higher Education.

The IU School of Education is dedicated to preparing its graduate students for careers in government, technology, schools, and public institutions. The doctoral degrees in education are geared toward creative, technological, and leadership training.

Campus Location: Bloomington, Indiana

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
• Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Doctorate of Education Degrees and Concentrations:

• Specialization in Art Education
• Specialization in Curriculum Studies
• Specialization in Mathematics Education
• EdD in Educational Leadership
• PhD or EdD in Higher Education
• PhD in History, Philosophy and Policy in Education
• PhD or EdD in Instructional Systems Technology (EdD also offered online)
• PhD in Special Education

Admission Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• GPA (minimum GPA varies from program to program)
• Personal Goal Statement
• Official Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• TOEFL scores (International Students)

Full Funding Options: Fellowships that offer full funding in the education doctoral programs at Indiana University Bloomington include the Dean’s Fellowship, Faculty Doctoral Fellowship, Proffitt Fellowship, and Malvina McNeill Fellowship.

Also, five different fellowships are offered to graduate students in the School of Education at IU Bloomington for members of underrepresented populations, three of which offer full funding. Department-specific funding may also be available.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORAL DEGREES IN EDUCATION AT INDIANA UNIVERSITY

MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Education Program Standouts: Michigan State University’s College of Education has developed some of the top PhD programs in the country. The education doctoral programs prepare leaders in education to deal with current challenges and address modern educational needs.

According to their website, Michigan State University’s “internationally known faculty members construct rigorous opportunities for advanced study, mentor students and engage in millions of dollars of funded research.”

According to the US News and World Report ranking of education graduation programs, in both elementary and secondary education, the University of Michigan has ranked number one in the country for over consecutive years.

Campus Location: Lansing, Michigan

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

• Curriculum, Instruction and Teacher Education
• Educational Leadership
• Educational Policy
• Educational Psychology and Education Technology
• Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education
• K-12 Educational Administration
• Kinesiology
• Mathematics Education
• Measurement and Quantitative Methods
• Rehabilitation Counselor Education
• School Psychology
• Special Education
• Current Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Professional Goals
• Writing Sample
• Letters of Reference
• Transcripts

Full Funding Options: While pursuing the educational doctorate at Michigan State University a variety of options are available for full tuition funding.

Graduate assistantships, the MSU Fellowship program which offers five years of funding along with a stipend and research funding for enrolled students are all available for graduate students who pursue the doctorate in education at Michigan State.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORATES IN EDUCATION AT MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Boston college.

Education Program Standouts: Offering some of the top education doctoral programs in the country, The Lynch School of Education and Human Development is consistent in its inclusion in top programs of education in the U.S. and worldwide.

Named as the #1 Catholic school of education by U.S. News and World Report and offering $15.9 million a year in research funding, the Lynch school is defined by active inner support and looks to offer the best success to the schools and people they serve.

The Lynch School is planning to launch four brand-new interdisciplinary minors into their existing education programs.

Campus Location: Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

• New England Commission of Higher Education
• PhD in Counseling Psychology
• PhD in Applied Developmental and Educational Psychology
• PhD in Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics and Assessment
• PhD in Higher Education
• PhD in Educational Leadership
• PhD in Curriculum and Instruction
• Grades (graduate and undergraduate)
• Research experience
• Personal statement
• Resume or CV
• Letters of recommendation
• Writing sample

Full Funding Options: The Lynch School of Education and Human Development at Boston College offers numerous fellowships for graduate students studying education including the Barry Fellowship and Duvjnak Fellowship which offer tuition remission. Also available at The Lynch School are many graduate assistantships, in fact, 361 assistantship programs are offered for graduate students across campus.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS IN EDUCATION AT BOSTON COLLEGE

Harvard university.

Education Program Standouts: Harvard Graduate School of Education has one of the very top PhD in Education degree programs in the country. Harvard is currently ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the number one school of education.

With a long and outstanding reputation for excellence, Harvard also provides options for full funding to doctoral students which makes a Harvard Doctorate accessible.

Campus Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

• Culture, Institutions and Society
• Education Policy and Program Evaluation
• Human Development, Learning and Teaching
• Resume and Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• Standardized test scores
• Postsecondary transcripts
• Supplemental form for the PhD in Education

Full Funding Options: Through the Graduate School of Education, Harvard University’s Doctor of Education programs can be fully funded through such fellowships as the James Bryant Conan Fellowship.

Those who are accepted into the Doctor of Educational Leadership degree program can expect a full tuition waiver. A number of other fellowships and grants are offered to assist students in obtaining a doctoral degree in education from Harvard.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN EDUCATION FROM HARVARD UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA

Education Program Standouts: The University of Virginia has one of the top education programs, according to U.S. News and World Report. Ranked #17 overall in Best Education Schools as well as #4 for Special Education Specialty Ranking, The Curry School of Education and Human Development has made a name for itself in the world of education and educators.

Their missions are two-fold, to prepare students to work in education from kindergarten through college and to conduct scholarship and research that directly addresses the problems of education today.

Campus Location: Charlottesville, VA

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Inquiry Brief Commission of the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

Doctor of Education Degrees and Concentrations:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Reading Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction
• Doctor of Philosophy in English Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Gifted Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Language Education in Multilingual Contexts
• Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Social Studies Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education
• Statement of purpose
• Possible master’s degree

Full Funding Options: The University of Virginia Curry School of Education and Human Development offers full funding, such as the Dean’s Fellowship, for PhD students.

The Dean’s Fellowship offers four years of full tuition and fees, health insurance and a $32,000 yearly stipend. Full-time doctoral applicants to the University of Virginia are automatically considered for the Dean’s Fellowship.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FULLY FUNDED PHDS IN EDUCATION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA

University of california berkeley.

Education Program Standouts: The Graduate School of Education at the University of California Berkeley has top-ranked quality and offers PhDs in Education that promote research in areas such as Critical Studies of Race, Class, and Gender; Culture, Development and the Learning Sciences and Social Research Methodologies.

The Graduate School of Education at Berkeley grounds itself in theory and practice equally along with an emphasis on making a positive impact on social transformation and personal growth.

Campus Location: Berkeley, California

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges

• Doctor of Philosophy in Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Special Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Science and Mathematics Education
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Satisfactory scholastic average, usually a 3.0
• Enough undergraduate training to do graduate work

Full Funding Options: The Mentored Research Award and the UC Dissertation-Year Fellowship along with the Doctoral Completion Fellowship grant students in the Educational Doctoral programs full funding along with a stipend to assist them in completing their doctorates.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN EDUCATION PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY

University of pennsylvania.

Education Program Standouts: The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education grants students seeking a top doctor of education degree the opportunity to do so with full funding. With an emphasis on both high-quality research and the building of practical knowledge building. The alumni at the University of Pennsylvania are recognized as some of the “most influential education leaders.”

Campus Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Doctor of Philosophy in Education Degrees and Concentrations:

• PhD in Education, Culture and Society
• PhD in Education Policy
• PhD in Educational Linguistics
• PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development
• PhD in Learning Sciences and Technologies
• PhD in Quantitative Methods
• PhD in Reading/Writing/Literacy
• PhD in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education
• Official Test Scores
• Application Fee

Full Funding Options: All PhD students at the University of Pennsylvania are granted a full-time four-year fellowship that includes a stipend and student health insurance.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHDS IN EDUCATION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

University of washington.

Education Program Standouts: The Doctor of Philosophy program is a part of the College of Education at the University of Washington. Offering one of the best doctorates in education programs in the country, the University of Washington College of Education is currently ranked No. 3 in Education Schools at Public Universities.

The programs include continuous research, a comprehensive foundation in academics as well as teaching experience.

Campus Location: Seattle, Washington

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

• Curriculum and Instruction: Excellence in Content Instruction
• Educational Organizations, Leadership, & Policy Studies
• Leadership in Higher Education
• Learning Sciences & Human Development
• Measurement & Statistics
• Multicultural Education
• Social & Cultural Foundations
• Teacher Quality & Teacher Education
• Unofficial transcripts
• Goal statement/statement of purpose
• Resume/Vita

Full Funding Options: The College of Education at the University of Washington offers around 120 teaching, research and staff assistantship positions to graduate students every year. Those who will be primarily considered have a strong background in teaching, research or administration.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN EDUCATION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Stanford university.

Education Program Standouts: Ranked #3 by US News and World Report, Stanford University offers one of the best PhD in education programs in the country.

The Stanford Graduate School of Education prepares the next generation of education researchers under the guidance of top academic faculty and advisors.

Campus Location: Stanford, California

• Interdisciplinary Policy Studies in Education
• Cross-Area Specialization – Race, Inequality and Language in Education
• Elementary Education
• Literacy, Language and English Education
• History/Social Science Education
• Science Education
• Teacher Education
• Application fee and form
• 3 letters of recommendation
• College and university transcripts

Full Funding Options: All PhD applicants accepted at Stanford are guaranteed 5 years of full-time financial support. Around 20% of the doctoral students at Stanford University are awarded the Stanford Graduate Fellowship in the first year of their doctoral program.

This fellowship offers 11 academic quarters of funding for graduate students. Students awarded these fellowships are part of faculty research and assist with courses through their apprenticeship requirements. Other grants and fellowships are also offered at Stanford.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN EDUCATION AT STANFORD UNIVERSITY

University of texas – austin.

Education Program Standouts: The University of Texas – Austin College of Education ranks highly among the top doctoral education programs. According to their website, “The College of Education’s signature impact areas align the college’s strengths with essential needs in the fields of education in Texas and beyond.

They represent the major goals of the College of Education and help to determine how we will align the college’s resources to reach our vision.”

Campus Location: Austin, Texas

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

• PhD in Education Leadership and Policy
• PhD in Educational Psychology – Counseling
• PhD in Education Psychology – Human Development, Culture, and Learning Sciences
• Application and Fee
• GRE and GMAT

Full Funding Options: Fellowships are available for graduate students attending the University of Texas – Austin. One of the fellowships available is the Donald D. Harrington Recruitment Fellowship which offers up to 3 years of tuition remission along with a stipend.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN EDUCATION PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

University of california – la.

Education Program Standouts: Named the #1 Graduate School of Education and Information Studies by US News and World Report for 2019, UCLA’s Graduate School has proved its commitment to new practice, groundbreaking research and award-winning faculty in order to offer some of the best doctorates in education available in the country.

Campus Location: Los Angeles, California

• Application and fee
• Diversity Statement
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree (check individual program requirements)

Full Funding Options: Students entering the UCLA doctoral programs may receive full funding for the entirety of their doctoral studies. If they do not, there are a number of fellowships, grants and assistantships that may be applied for.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN EDUCATION PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA – LA

University of michigan – ann arbor.

Education Program Standouts: The doctoral programs at The University of Michigan School of Education are designed to produce leaders in advanced education who are able to think rigorously, know the craft of research and make a difference in the future of education. With many concentrations, the PhD in Education is tailored to the unique interests and research of each student.

Campus Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

• Educational Policy, Leadership and Innovation
• Educational Foundations and Policy
• Learning Technologies
• Literacy, Language and Culture
• Teaching and Teacher Education
• Education and Statistics
• English and Education
• Education and Psychology
• Academic Affairs and Student Development
• Research, Evaluation, and Assessment
• Organizational Behavior and Management
• Public Policy in Postsecondary Education
• Individually Designed Concentration

Full Funding Options: The majority of students in the doctoral programs at the University of Michigan School of Education receive a minimum of four years of full funding. This includes a stipend for living expenses along with health insurance.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION DEGREES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN – ANN ARBOR

University of wisconsin – madison.

Education Program Standouts: Ranked #1 among Public Schools in Education by US News World Report, the School of Education at The University of Wisconsin – Madison offers graduate programs in more than 12 areas which include occupational therapy, fine art and educational policy studies among others.

The School of Education provides some of the best doctorate of education degree programs for those who want to pursue a career in educational research.

Campus Location: Madison, Wisconsin

• 12 credits in professional education courses
• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of reasons for graduate study

Full Funding Options: The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers doctoral students assistantships and fellowships, many of which cover the full cost of tuition and include a stipend.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON

Columbia university.

Education Program Standouts: Teacher’s College at Columbia University, ranked #7 by US News and World Report of all graduate education schools, was founded “on the proposition that education alone can’t correct our society’s inequalities.”

In spite of being one of the top educational programs in the country, the Teacher’s College focus is on maximizing “the life chances of all people.”

Campus Location: New York City, New York

• Education Leadership
• Economics and Education
• Education Policy
• Politics and Education
• Cognitive Science and Education
• History and Education
• Philosophy and Education
• English Education
• Sociology and Education
• Mathematics and Education
• Online application form
• Two letters of recommendation
• Program-specific supplemental materials

Full Funding Options: Teacher’s College at Columbia University offers scholarships, research assistantships, fellowships, and grants which can cover the full cost of tuition for their PhDs in Education.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD IN EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAMS AT TEACHER’S COLLEGE COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

Vanderbilt university.

Education Program Standouts: Peabody College Vanderbilt University offers some of the top PhD programs in the field of education. Dating back to 1785, Peabody has been ranked in the top positions by US News and World Report for the last 10 years and is currently ranked number 6 in Best Education Schools.

The mission of Peabody is to better the human condition and focus on the learning and development of children.

Campus Location: Nashville, Tennessee

• Specialization in K-12 Educational Leadership and Policy
• Specialization in Higher Education Leadership and Policy
• Early Childhood
• High Incidence Disabilities
• Learning Disabilities
• Low-Incidence Disabilities
• Severe and Multiple Disabilities
• Visual and Hearing Impairments
• Development, Learning and Disability
• Language, Literacy and Culture
• Mathematics and Science Education
• Learning and Design
• Educational Neuroscience
• Online application
• Scholarly writing sample

Full Funding Options: All admitted students into a PhD program at Vanderbilt University Peabody College receive funding for up to 5 years of study. This includes tuition, a monthly stipend and health insurance.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE EDUCATION DOCTORATE AT PEABODY COLLEGE VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY

Johns hopkins university.

Education Program Standouts: The Doctorate of Philosophy in Education at Johns Hopkins University is part of a school of education that is only improving in its reputation for success. Jumping up 10 spots this last year in the rankings of US News and World Report for Best Graduate Schools, Johns Hopkins deserves recognition for its advancement.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in education is designed for students who are interested in becoming scholars equipped to address the modern challenges of education and improve pre-K-12 learning outcomes.

Campus Location: Baltimore, Maryland

• Master’s degree from an accredited university
• Official transcripts

Full Funding Options: Full tuition assistance along with a stipend is available to outstanding students who are accepted to the Doctor of Philosophy in Education degree program.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN EDUCATION FROM JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

Arizona state university.

Education Program Standouts: Educational policy and evaluation students work closely with nationally and internationally recognized faculty members on collaborative and independent research projects that result in policy briefs, reports, scholarly articles and engagement in education policy.

The program also provides opportunities for internships in applied settings and varied experiences in scholarly publishing.

Campus Location: Tempe, Arizona

• Educational Policy and Evaluation
• Learning, Literacies and Technologies

Full Funding Options: Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College supports full-time students in the PhD program with funding renewable for four years.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHD PROGRAMS IN EDUCATION AT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

New york university.

Education Program Standouts: The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development includes 10 departments and over 30 degree programs. The quality of the PhD doctoral students is a source of pride to Steinhardt which they strive to maintain. The doctoral graduates from Steinhardt are continuously known as leaders and innovators in their field.

Campus Location: New York, New York

• Bilingual Education
• Education and Jewish Studies
• Educational Communication and Technology
• Educational Theatre
• Higher and Postsecondary Education
• History of Education
• International Education
• Music Education
• Sociology of Education
• Teaching and Learning

Full Funding Options: Full-time Steinhardt PhD students are eligible for full-time tuition remission along with a stipend to help with living expenses.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY DEGREES IN EDUCATION AT NEW YORK UNIVERSITY STEINHARDT

Northwestern university.

Education Program Standouts: Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy, perhaps more than the other schools on the list, emphasizes a wide variety of disciplines and brings them into harmony.

Their PhD in Learning Sciences along with the PhD in Computer Science and Learning Sciences studies many channels of inquiry including individuals, groups, and organizations to make discoveries that revolutionize the education world.

Campus Location: Evanston, Illinois

• PhD in Learning Sciences
• PhD in Computer Science and Learning Sciences
• Optional GRE scores

Full Funding Options: All students accepted into the Ph.D. programs at Northwestern University receive full tuition with an academic year stipend for five years contingent on progress.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PHDS IN EDUCATION AT NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

What does it mean to say a degree is “fully funded? “

The very term “fully funded” or “full funding” when said of a doctoral degree program can be misunderstood. It can mean everything related to the degree program is paid for by someone other than the student—most often the university. Put simply, the student does not have out-of-pocket expenses for their degree program.

Better doctoral degree programs mean more than tuition remission and funding of other degree-related costs, such as various fees that arise. Top doctoral degree programs, most often when discussing fully funded degrees or full funding for a doctoral program, will cover not only the cost of tuition and degree-related expenses.

Fully funded degrees, in this second sense, will also provide doctoral students with a stipend, above and beyond strictly degree-related costs, to be used for living expenses while in the doctoral degree program. This is the goal that potential doctoral degree students looking for when applying to doctoral degrees that are “fully funded” or offer “full funding.”

So, be sure to be clear about what is meant when using the language of fully funded and full funding. The specifics of what funding includes and how it is divided up and divvied out can vary. Let’s take a look at some of these questions.

What is funded in a fully funded degree?

In a fully-funded degree that covers only tuition, fees, and degree-related expenses, only the actual cost of the degree is covered. In better doctoral degree programs, tuition and fees are covered. As nice as this is, in addition to tuition, the funding package will include a living expenses stipend, above and beyond tuition cost as well as a health insurance program for doctoral students.

Normally, funding lasts between 3 and 5 years with the goal of the timely and fully funded completion of the doctoral program within the term of the funding package. Universities invest a good deal of money in their doctoral students, so they want their fully-funded students to finish. Moreover, “failed” doctoral students don’t look good to potential future students or potential donors.

Successfully new doctors make the university, department, and faculty look good. Put in the work, and good departments and faculty will do everything they can to help you finish your fully funded doctorate.

Here’s a breakdown of what is commonly covered in top fully funded doctorate:

• Full-time Tuition
• Related Fees
• Stipend for Living Expenses
• Student Health Insurance

What do I have to do for a fully funded degree?

Fully funded doctorates, almost without exception, require the student to be enrolled in a doctoral program as a full-time student in order to maintain their funding. Also, depending upon department standards, students with full funding must keep their grade point average above a certain level to keep their funding.

As we have already discovered, “fully funded” and “full funding” can vary in meaning. For those doctoral programs that cover tuition and fees, as well as provide a stipend and health insurance, how the students receive this funding and the funding schedule can differ.

• Fellowships
• Assistantships: Research or Teaching
• External Funding Sources: Scholarships
• Travel and Research Grants

The “Gold Standard” for full funding will be awarded a Fellowship. Fellowships are normally quite competitive and limited to a small number. They are awarded on a merit basis. Those who have been awarded a fellowship receive full tuition, a stipend (usually more than other fully funded degrees), and health insurance.

Beyond showing up for class and performing well, no other extracurricular demands are made upon the student. This is a great benefit for doctoral students, given the intense demands doctoral studies make.

Instead of being required to fulfill certain funding obligations to maintain their funding package (see below), students with a fellowship can spend more time researching, presenting at conferences, and publishing their work. This can serve as an important head start in relation to their doctoral student peers who are not able to network and publish as much because of funding obligations.

Another way in which doctoral degrees are fully funded is through assistantships. Though not as great as a fellowship, an assistantship is also highly coveted. If you have been awarded an assistantship, as with a fellowship, you are guaranteed that your tuition will be covered, you will have a stipend, and health insurance coverage during your doctoral studies.

The downside of an assistantship in comparison with a fellowship is that you will have to devote twelve to twenty hours on average per week to earning your stipend. Assistantships usually come in the form of research or teaching assistantships.

A research assistantship is often more highly desired because it normally will be less demanding than a teaching assistantship and allows the doctoral student to work directly with a faculty member, helping them in their research and learning the discipline firsthand.

A teaching assistantship will usually require a doctoral student to teach one course per semester during the course of their doctoral studies.

In the absence of or in addition to doctoral fellowships and assistantships, internal and external scholarships may be available to doctoral students. Scholarships are awarded for a host of reasons. Those interested in scholarships should contact schools they are interested in, as well as research the internet for potential sources of funding through scholarships.

Travel and research grants are often offered to doctoral students in order to cover travel expenses incurred in the course of presenting at conferences during the doctoral program and/or additional expenses that research might entail for the doctoral student. The availability of such funding can be found through departmental representatives.

How much money is a fully funded degree worth?

Earlier, we mentioned that universities and faculties want their fully-funded doctoral students to succeed and finish their degrees. One reason was just how much money is invested in a doctoral student. Let’s take a look at what a doctoral degree is worth.

• Average Yearly Doctoral Tuition: $32,800
• Average Yearly (Median) Doctoral Stipend: $2800
• Average Yearly (Median) Health Insurance Costs for College Students: $2,000

Full funding in a doctoral program normally lasts three to five years. Let’s take four as the average and multiply the monetary equivalent of what the fully-funded doctoral student receives over the four years of funding. We arrive at a quite staggering amount of $264,000! On average, a fully funded doctorate is worth a little over a quarter of a million dollars!

Can I find a fully funded online doctoral degree program?

Fully funded online doctorates are a rarity. It might be going too far to say there are absolutely zero fully funded online doctorates, but such would be the great exceptions.

Some of the reasons why fully-funded online doctorates are almost as uncommon as the dodo bird stems from the fact that most fully-funded doctoral students are employees of their universities and departments through teaching and research assistantships.

Another contributing factor for why there are so few online doctorates that offer full funding is that full-time study is an almost invariable requirement for funding. In the world of online doctoral studies, a large proportion of students are not full-time. Perhaps there will be a shift in the world of online doctoral studies towards offering full funding for non-traditional students. Time will tell.

However, as more and more students embark upon their doctoral studies through online doctoral degree programs, the impetus to recruit and reward outstanding applicants through fully funded online doctorates may grow.

Can I work while participating in a fully funded Ph.D. program?

Yes, you can work while participating in a fully funded Ph.D. program. Many universities allow students to hold part-time jobs while completing their Ph.D., as long as it does not interfere with their academic work.

Additionally, some universities may even provide resources to help students find part-time work that is related to their research or field of study. Check with your university to see what resources are available.

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Education policy, doctor of philosophy (ph.d.), you are here, an individualized doctoral program and an apprenticeship that prepares you for advanced empirical education policy research..

The goal of the Education Policy doctoral program is to produce the next generation of education policy scholars and researchers by providing students with deep content knowledge, disciplinary grounding, and training in the use of rigorous, cutting-edge methods. We study early childhood education, K-12, and beyond, in the United States and around the world. Our program has a proven record of preparing students for a variety of research careers, such as professors at top tier-universities and policy researchers at premier research firms, non-profit research organizations, and government agencies.

What Sets Us Apart

About the program.

The Education Policy Ph.D. program equips graduates with the knowledge and methodological tools to use, understand, and conduct research on the pressing educational issues of the day.  Your program of study will be matched to your specific interests in education policy on the local, state, national, or international levels. 

Fall: 4 courses; Spring: 4 courses

Research apprenticeship 20 hours per week

Culminating experience Comprehensive examination and doctoral dissertation 

At the heart of the Education Policy Ph.D. program is the research apprenticeship. You will be paired with Education Policy faculty members whose research interests align with your own, and work alongside them in the research process. You will learn to design, conduct, and communicate the results of empirical research, including presenting papers at scholarly conferences and submitting articles to scholarly journals for publication.

In addition to an  individualized program of study,  our students are required to write a significant qualifying paper and complete a dissertation on an issue in education. 

Transfer Courses

Course units of graduate coursework taken prior to matriculation into the Ph.D. degree program, if approved by both your faculty advisor and the Education Policy Chair, may be substituted for one or more of the above required courses. However, students are still required to complete 16 course units while at Penn GSE.

Program Length

Our Ph.D. program is designed to be completed in four years—two years of full-time coursework and two years to complete exams and dissertation. The University’s maximum time limit for completion is ten years after matriculation.

Preliminary Examination/Doctoral Dissertation

At the end of the coursework, students complete a preliminary examination (also known as the qualifying paper or comprehensive examination) covering relevant areas of education policy. Successful passage bestows doctoral candidacy, at which point students appoint a dissertation committee, orally defend their dissertation proposal, and write and defend their dissertation.

Our program offers a balance of flexibility and rigor. We want our students to be able to tailor their courses to their own interests and expertise while ensuring that they develop methodological and content-area expertise. One of the strengths of our program is that students can take courses in nationally ranked departments across the University of Pennsylvania. Many of our students take courses at the Wharton School, the School of Social Policy and Practice, and in departments including Sociology and Political Science. Advisors work closely with students to design their course of study.

For information on courses and requirements, visit the  Education Policy Ph.D. program in the University Catalog .

Our Faculty

The Education Policy faculty study everything from big data in early childhood education to assessment evaluation to the teacher workforce. In addition to the standing faculty in Education Policy, our program is enriched by the scholarship of faculty members from the Literacy, Culture, and International Education, Human Development and Quantitative Methods, and Teaching, Learning, and Leadership divisions. 

Affiliated Faculty

Sigal Ben-Porath MRMJJ Presidential Professor Ph.D., Tel Aviv University

Wendy Chan Assistant Professor Ph.D., Northwestern University

Dennis P. Culhane Professor, Penn Social Policy & Practice Ph.D., Boston College

John MacDonald Professor of Criminology and Sociology, Penn Arts & Sciences Ph.D., University of Maryland

Laura W. Perna Vice Provost for Faculty Ph.D., University of Michigan

Daniel A. Wagner UNESCO Chair in Learning and Literacy Ph.D., University of Michigan

Sharon Wolf Associate Professor Ph.D., New York University

Jonathan Zimmerman Judy and Howard Berkowitz Professor in Education Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University

"I went to Penn GSE because I wanted to understand the education research that drove policy changes, and I wanted to make that research applicable to teachers."

Wendy Castillo

Our graduates.

Our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and methodological tools to use, understand, and conduct research on the pressing educational issues of the day. We have a proven record of preparing students for a variety of research careers, such as professors at top-tier universities and policy researchers at premier research firms, nonprofit research organizations, and government agencies. Some alumni have also gone on to lead schools, districts, and other organizations.

Alumni Careers

Recent job placements.

• Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Assistant Professor, St. Louis University
• Assistant Professor, University of Maryland, College Park
• Postdoctoral Scholar, University of Pennsylvania
• Postdoctoral Scholar, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Lecturer, Princeton University
• Senior Analyst, Abt Associates
• Research Associate, MDRC
• Analyst, Congressional Research Office

Admissions & Financial Aid

Please visit our Admissions and Financial Aid pages for specific information on the application requirements , as well as information on tuition, fees, financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.

Contact us if you have any questions about the program.

Graduate School of Education University of Pennsylvania 3700 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 898-6415 [email protected] [email protected]

Nakia Gard Program Manager (215) 573-8075 [email protected]

Noel Lipki Program Coordinator (215) 746-2923 [email protected]

Please view information from our Admissions and Financial Aid Office for specific information on the cost of this program.

All Ph.D. students are guaranteed a full scholarship for their first four years of study, as well as a stipend and student health insurance. Penn GSE is committed to making your graduate education affordable, and we offer generous scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

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Penn Early Childhood and Family Research Center

The Penn Early Childhood and Family Research Center aims to advance the use of science in a context of public trust to address problems affecting the well-being of young children and families facing systemic injustice and disadvantage.

Consortium For Policy Research In Education

The Consortium for Policy Research in Education (CPRE) is a joint effort of seven graduate schools of education. Its research focuses on school reform, governance, policy, and finance.

CPRE Mathematics Formative Assessment Project

The Ongoing Assessment Project (OGAP) is a large-scale field trial of a mathematics formative assessment program conducted by CPRE and funded by the National Science Foundation.

Our Students

Our doctoral students engage in research alongside Education Policy throughout the course of their degree. Learn more about our students and their research.

You May Be Interested In

Related programs.

• Education Policy M.S.Ed. 
• Education, Culture, and Society Ph.D. 
• Higher Education Ph.D. 
• Quantitative Methods M.Phil.Ed.
• Quantitative Methods Ph.D.
• Statistics, Measurement, Assessment, and Research Technology M.S.Ed.

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Doctoral Programs

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• Ph.D. in Education

Ph.D. in Education: Transforming Education in a Diverse Society

The Ph.D. in Education is designed for students with some professional experience in teaching and learning settings as well as in research.  Our mission is to teach students to wield the tools of research to change disparities in educational experiences and student outcomes.

Our Ph.D. in Education is designed for students who want to pursue research and careers in academia, the non-profit sector, or governmental agencies with a focus on how to improve educational practices and policies to achieve social equity and progress. We look for students with both research experiences and professional experience in teaching, leadership, and learning, who want to build their capacities to undertake independent scholarly research. 

As part of the evolution of education research, the field of education will require Ph.D. graduates who are prepared to collaborate with policymakers, educators, families, and communities to transform current education practice and policy. Our Ph.D. program will provide a fresh approach to training much needed and innovative researchers. Rather than training traditional faculty members solely to generate knowledge by documenting outcomes and processes in education, human development, and well-being, we will cultivate future faculty and researchers to serve and partner with communities through their research in order to accelerate the improvement of education in regional, national, and international settings.

With a focus on equity, equality, and justice, our program is designed to support the development of interdisciplinary, rigorous researchers who can improve educational structures, practices, and policies, as well as the use of educational approaches for community well-being, particularly in low resource settings and for socially marginalized youth. The program will explicitly articulate the links between university faculty, students, families, education practitioners, community members and programs, policy-makers, and educational and community stakeholders. 

In addition to developing a solid theoretical and methodological foundation, students in the program have opportunities to deepen and extend their learning through elective coursework within EDS and cognate coursework in other UCSD departments, and through research apprenticeships with EDS faculty,   in order to deepen their knowledge of varied disciplines, theories, and epistemologies. 

Students will also have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary experiences by engaging in research across UC San Diego divisions, departments, and research units. Education Studies is a partner with Critical Gender Studies (CGS) allowing PhD students to apply for a   Graduate Specialization in CGS . Additionally, students interested in cognitive science development may apply to join the   Interdisciplinary PhD program in Cognitive Science   and Education Studies.

EDS Ph.D. Student Kirk Rogers, Receives Ford Fellowship

Eds ph.d. students anita caduff and rebecca levine, each received a friends of the international center fellowship, want to learn more, program features.

The program features include:

• Competitive Funding
• A commitment to promoting equity and social justice
• A focus on designing solutions for pressing problems in education
• A multi-disciplinary approach to training educational researchers, focusing on close collaboration with educators, policymakers, and the community
• On-campus, full-time course of study
• Interdisciplinary approach
• Focus on collaborative inquiry
• Intensive research internships working with well-renowned faculty
• Rigorous training in quantitative and qualitative research methods
• Training to generate and communicate research that transforms practices in local settings and makes an impact nationally and globally
• The use of technology as a tool for teaching, scholarship, and supporting change in diverse communities

Admissions Information

Our application for Fall 2025 will open on September 4, 2024.

A completed Ph.D. application will include the following components:

1) Application Form 

Fill out the application form online.

2) Statement of Purpose

Your Statement of Purpose  must  address the following:  (1) research interests, (2) relevant professional experiences, (3)  experiences with teaching and learning, (4) experience in diverse communities; (5) how your professional and research goals contribute to diversity. 

3) Recommendation Letters

Three letters of recommendation need to be submitted via the online recommendation form available within the application.  You may find it useful to consider in advance whom you will ask to serve as recommenders, so that you may contact these individuals and confirm their willingness. We suggest selecting recommenders who can comment on your ability to be successful in a rigorous Ph.D. program which focuses on transforming education in a diverse society. The letters might include a recommender’s knowledge and assessment of your academic preparation, your professional experiences in educational practice, and your research interests and experiences.

An applicant must submit a professional resume. The Ph.D. in Education is designed for students with some professional experience in teaching and learning settings as well as in research. 

5) Writing Sample

An applicant must submit a publication or a sample of academic writing.

6) Transcripts

For application review purposes (only), scan and upload copies of transcripts for all institutions attended post-high school.  In the online application, you will be prompted to upload a PDF of your scanned documents. Please upload both the front and back sides of the transcript, even if the back side is blank. Uploaded transcripts should be recent and include the following: your name, the institution name, dates of attendance, grades/marks received, credits, and grading legend.  If no transcript is available, please upload a statement explaining the circumstances.

*Do not mail hard copies until provisionally admitted.

Upon provisional admission UC San Diego:  Official transcripts from all institutions attended after high school will be required to finalize your admission and must be submitted to the Graduate Admissions office. Official records including transcripts, evaluations, mark sheets, diplomas, certificates, translations, and study abroad work must be delivered in a sealed envelope from the administering institution or service. Documents will not be accepted if opened or sealed by the student. Certified electronic transcripts sent directly to Graduate Admissions from the issuing institution care also accepted.  Electronic transcripts should be sent to  [email protected] .

Applicants with academic work in progress who expect to complete a degree program before the intended date of enrollment at UC San Diego, must provide evidence of degree conferral and a final academic transcript as soon as they are available.

By the time enrollment begins, successful applicants  must hold a bachelor's degree or the equivalent from an accredited institution in the United States or from a recognized university-level academic institution abroad. Completed coursework for both domestic and international applicants must demonstrate the equivalent of at least a B average in the United States .

7) GRE Scores

The  GRE exam  (general exam) will not be required for Applications for Fall 2023. If you do take the exam our program code is R4836. If you have already taken the test and did not have your scores sent to UC San Diego, contact ETS to have your scores sent to us electronically. The test scores are valid for 5 years.

8) Additional Educational Experiences (Required by EDS)

To be considered for admission into the Ph.D. in Education Program, please respond to a minimum of three out of the seven areas included within the application. This part of the application is not optional for EDS.

9) Application Fee 

The application fee is $120 for US citizens or permanent residents; $140 for international applicants. The non-refundable fee is payable by credit card through the online application. You may also pay by check, following the instructions in the online application. If you choose to pay by check, please note that your application will not be processed until your check has been received.

The UCSD Education Studies PhD program uses a structured holistic review process with a rubric-based evaluation. Each application is reviewed in its entirety and rated on academic preparation, potential for scholarship, and potential for contributing to equity and diversity in formal and information learning contexts. While we do not have a minimum GRE score,  we encourage students to take the test seriously, to practice and do your best. You may choose to address low scores in your statement of purpose. Successful applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or the equivalent from an accredited institution in the United States or from a recognized university-level academic institution abroad and at least a B average (3.0 GPA) or its equivalent by the time they enroll. Some exceptional applicants with lower GPAs may be recommended for admission. You may choose to address low grades in Education related courses or GPA in your statement of purpose.

* Former UC San Diego graduate students should contact Amber Rieder to complete the necessary re-admission process. 

Graduate Funding

Admitted EDS PhD students are guaranteed 5 years financial support, which includes half-time student academic employment, and full tuition & fees during the academci year.

If admitted to the program a detailed funding letter outlining the funding package will be provided.

For further questions about funding please contact the Graduate Coordinator, Amber Rieder, [email protected].

Financ ial Support FAQs

Faculty use a wide array of research methodologies and discipline-based theoretical tools for analyzing and addressing topics. Our faculty have expertise in quantitative methods and qualitative methods of research, with many using mixed methods research approaches. Faculty research projects range from large-scale, multi-site quantitative analyses to in-depth qualitative studies of schools, classrooms, and communities. Faculty also have expertise in historical research, theory development, and design-based approaches to research.

View a list of Ph.D. Faculty and Research Topic Areas

Program of Study

2024-2025 ph.d. proposed course schedule, 2023-2024 ph.d. course schedule, 2022-2023 ph.d. course schedule, 22021-2022 ph.d. course schedule, 2020-2021 ph.d. course schedule, 2019-2020 ph.d. course schedule , 2018-2019 ph.d. course schedule , degree benchmarks.

Our signature pedagogy is problem immersion -- we ask students to read research and learn theories and methodologies in the service of understanding existing real-world education situations and contexts.  During the first two years of the program, students will take required courses in foundational areas and in rigorous research methods. Students will also take  Research Apprenticeship Courses (RAC)  in which students are immersed in faculty research with faculty supporting students’ development as researchers. At the end of the first year, and with faculty guidance, students will choose their particular area of focus and select elective courses in education and in other departments accordingly. Students will continue their research immersion experiences and take courses as part of an interdisciplinary cognate strand.

Between the end of year 2 and no later than Spring quarter of year 3 students will submit their  Qualifying Exam Research Review Paper . The written Research Review is designed to assess the student's ability to work in a scholarly and professional way with substantive knowledge in their area of interest. To successfully meet the research review benchmark, a student must submit a scholarly review of research manuscript of publishable quality. The manuscript should demonstrate the student’s knowledge of theory and research in a particular topic area related to transforming education in a diverse society.

After successfully passing the Qualifying Exam, students will present their dissertation proposal between year three and four. Information on this process can begin with the  Dissertation Proposal and Committee document . During the fourth and fifth years students will work with their dissertation advisor and other faculty committee members to complete their dissertation research and writing.

Student Handbooks

• Ph.D. Cohort 8 Handbook 2023-2024
• Ph.D. Cohort 7 Handbook 2022-2023
• Ph.D. Cohort 6 Handbook 2021-2022
• Ph.D. Cohort 5 Handbook 2020-2021
• Ph.D. Cohort 4 Handbook 2019-2020
• Ph.D. Cohort 3 Handbook 2018-2019
• Ph.D. Cohort 2 Handbook 2017-2018

PhD Program Committees

PhD Program Catalog Description

EDS PhD Approach to Mentoring and Advising

Information on SPSS

EDS Instructional Assistant (IA) Handbook

Financial Support

• EDS Funding Opportunities
• UC San Diego Graduate Division
• IA Expectations for EDS PhD Students

Basic Needs Support

• Triton Food Pantry
• Financial Programs including Emergency Loans and Grants
• Basic Needs Amenities in Central Campus
• Off Campus Housing 

• Ed.D in Educational Leadership
• PhD and EdD Comparison
• PhD Students
• PhD Faculty

EDS PhD Brown Bag Lunch Series!

Dr. Judy Nguyen

March 1, 12:30 PM

Humanizing Practices that Advance Student's success and Equity in Higher Education

RWAC Room 0622

~~~~~~~~~~

Dr. Harper Keenan

April 5th, 12:30 PM

Unmanageable Subjects:  Trans Childhood and the Challenge of Self-Determination in School

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

 Slides from our Fall P.h.D. Information Session     

Top 3 Fully Funded PhD Programs in Education

Earning a PhD in Education is a great way for practicing educators to transition into a career at the collegiate level. Fully funded PhD programs in education afford attendees the ability to focus solely on school and advance their careers without breaking the bank. The PhD in Education prepares candidates for careers that are scholarly or research based, such as working at government institutions, colleges and universities, even policy or educational centers. There are quite a few specializations that students can choose from.

Recommended Doctorates In Education

In this list we have compiled the Top 5 fully funded PhD programs found across the nation in the field. Fully funded means students have the chance to get a variety of aid options from grants, scholarships, residencies and more to fund their education while pursuing their PhD in Education.

1. The University of Michigan School of Education

The University of Michigan School of Education encourages all PhD students to think rigorously and demonstrate an ability to make a difference in education. The fully funded PhD program produces leaders, policymakers, and researchers dedicated to improving the state of education country and worldwide. The School of Education offers a PhD in Educational Studies in a number of areas of focus: Educational Policy, Leadership and Innovation , Literacy, Language, and Culture , or Mathematics Education to name a few. There are also three additional PhD degrees in English and Education , Education and Psychology or Higher Education .

Funding packages with the Michigan School of Education are flexible and plenty. Doctoral students receive a minimum of four years of financial support which covers items like tuition, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance. This insurance will even cover health and dental benefits for students’ family members, an invaluable benefit for many students when considering the rising costs of healthcare. All students who participate in the fully funded PhD program are assigned a 20-hour-per-week assignment. This might include filling roles as a research or staff assistant, or as an instructor.

2. Vanderbilt Peabody College

Vanderbilt University has long been a mecca for students striving to become the ‘best of the best’ in their fields, and located in Nashville, Tennessee, a thriving city and center for industries like healthcare and higher education, it’s easy to see why so many students excel through the university’s world-class programs. The Vanderbilt Peabody College offers a couple of fully funded PhD programs in Education through the Leadership, Policy and Organizations department. Two concentrations can be selected: K-12 Educational Leadership and Policy (ELP) , and  Higher Education Leadership and Policy (HELP) .

The PhD program is for students and educators who wish to build an academic career focused on the study of education and policy, and with the university’s unique mentor-apprentice model, students gain knowledge through researched based assistantships alongside esteemed faculty. All Peabody College PhD students receive full tuition funding . The funding is achieved through merit awards or University Tuition Scholarships. Typically, students will also benefit from health insurance coverage and may participate in University Fellowships, Graduate Teaching Assistantships, Graduate Research Assistantships, Traineeships, and Teacher Training Awards.

3. The Steinhardt School at New York University

Students at Steinhardt School at New York University can earn a free Ph.D. in education through the use of scholarships and tuition programs at the school. Those in the Ed. in leadership and innovation take 24 weeks to complete the program. They focus on coursework in applied research methods, change and innovation, and management and data ethics. Admission to the program requires that students answer why they want to attend Steinhardt, how their work experiences prepare them for a cohort learning environment, and what experience, if any, they have with online learning. Prospective students also need to include a resume, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts from previously attended postsecondary institutions.

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PhD Education / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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• Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and
• Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 60% or above, a minimum mark of 60% in your dissertation (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Deadlines

For consideration in internal funding competitions, you must submit your completed application by 19 January 2024.

If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self-funding, you must submit your application before the below deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after this date has passed.

• For September 2024 entry: 30 June 2024

Programme options

Programme overview.

• 2nd in the UK for Education (Complete University Guide 2024).  
• The University of Manchester was ranked in the top 10 in the UK for Education research (overall GPA, REF2021).
• Learn with research-active experts in the field of education and work with highly diverse cohorts of students and staff.
• Contribute to improvements in the overall wellbeing of students, their families and communities throughout the world through research.

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The University holds regular open days, where you will have the opportunity to tour the campus and find out more about our facilities and programmes. On this day, you will find out more about the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED) and meet academic and admissions staff who will be able to answer any questions you have.

For more information, see Open days.

We will be conducting our PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Your fees will cover the cost of your study at the University, as well as charges for registration, tuition, supervision, examinations and graduation (excluding graduation robe hire).

Payment of tuition fees will also entitle you to membership of The University of Manchester library, the Students' Union and the Athletic Union.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered. The deadline for most internal competitions, including School of Environment, Education and Development studentships is 19 January 2024.

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting the funding application form and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

• ESRC North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• School of Environment, Education and Development Postgraduate Research Studentships 2024 Entry - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)
• President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
• School of Environment, Education and Development Enhancing Racial Equality (SERE) Studentship - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

Lynn University’s graduate education program ranked by U.S. News & World Report

Lynn University’s graduate education program has been recognized as one of the top programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in their 2024  Best Graduate Schools rankings.

Lynn’s  Donald E. and Helen L. Ross College of Education  offers two distinguished graduate degree tracks:  educational leadership  and  exceptional student education  (ESE). The master’s in educational leadership is a one-year online program, whereas the Florida Department of Education-certified ESE specialization is available for completion on campus, online or via a hybrid format—ideal for working professionals who aspire to leadership positions in education. 

“The College of Education faculty is extremely pleased and proud to be recognized among some of the nation’s best colleges and universities,” said Kathleen Weigel, dean of the College of Education. “Our graduate students continue to utilize their educational experiences and knowledge to positively impact and improve their respective environments for the good of the children and communities they serve.”

This recognition underscores Lynn’s commitment to providing accelerated, convenient, and affordable education while preparing future education leaders to excel in their careers and contribute meaningfully to society. U.S. News also ranked Lynn in its  Best Online Programs lists for bachelor’s programs, graduate education and MBA programs earlier this year.

For more information about Lynn’s graduate education programs, visit lynn.edu/graduate .

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College of Education grad program ranks in Top 40 among U.S. public universities

The Purdue University College of Education ranks #48 in 2024 Best Education Schools – Graduate  Education , according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings released Apr. 9. This is an increase from #49 in 2023.

Education is among the five top-ranked academic disciplines at Purdue ranked by the USNWR .

“We are #2 in Indiana, and in the top 19% nationally,” said Wayne E. Wright , College of Education associate dean for research, graduate programs, and faculty development.

This ranking places Purdue’s College of Education graduate program in the Top 40 among U.S. public universities, at #37.

“While this is a very small improvement over our ranking last year, it is evidence that our graduate programs are strengthening — especially in the area of research,” said Phillip J. VanFossen , interim dean of the College. “In fact, the College has one of the highest levels of research productivity at Purdue.”

“We are thrilled to see our graduate program move even higher in the 2024 U.S. News and World Report Rankings,” Wright said. “We truly have outstanding programs and faculty who are dedicated to teaching and providing our students with highest quality education.”

U.S. News & World Report is a recognized leader in ranking colleges, programs, and graduate schools. Each year, Purdue’s College of Education strives to continually improve its programs and relies on the rankings to help promote and serve as a recruiting tool for prospective students seeking a quality online educational experience.

U.S. News and World Report rankings of the 2024 Best Graduate Schools – Education programs https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-education-schools/purdue-university-main-campus-06068   

Source: Wayne E. Wright, [email protected]