online phd programs scholarships

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.

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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.

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Scholarship Opportunities for Online PhD Students

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Institutional scholarships, professional association scholarships, industry scholarships, government scholarships and grants, scholarships for international students, are online phd programs cheaper than traditional, on-campus programs, are there specific scholarships for online phd students, how can i find scholarships for an online phd program, are international students eligible for scholarships, when should i start applying for scholarships, do all online phd programs have residency requirements, are there scholarships that cover full tuition for online phd programs, is it possible to combine multiple scholarships.

Pursuing a PhD is a significant financial commitment , but it’s one that can be offset through various scholarship opportunities. Scholarships can provide financial relief and open doors to furthering your education. In this article, we’ll explore scholarship opportunities available specifically for online PhD students.

Many universities offer scholarships specifically for their online students. These may be merit-based, need-based, or centered around specific groups such as underrepresented minorities, women in STEM, or first-generation college students.

For example, Walden University offers the “Walden University Tuition Reduction Scholarship”, which provides a 25% tuition reduction for new students who are referred by an alumni. Capella University has a “Capella Progress Reward”, a scholarship for eligible students that can save up to $20,000 on tuition.

It’s worth investigating the scholarship opportunities offered by the institutions you’re considering. You can typically find this information on their financial aid website, or by contacting the financial aid office directly.

Professional associations often offer scholarships for students pursuing advanced degrees in their field. For example, the American Psychological Association offers multiple scholarships for psychology students, while the Association for Computing Machinery has scholarships for computer science students.

The benefits of these scholarships often extend beyond financial aid; they may also include networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to industry resources.

Many businesses and corporations offer scholarships to attract and cultivate talent in their industry. For instance, Google offers the “Google PhD Fellowship Program” for students pursuing a PhD related to technology, and Ford has the “Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs” for PhD students committed to a career in teaching and research.

Government organizations at the federal and state level also provide scholarships and grants for PhD students. For example, the National Science Foundation offers the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program, which provides three years of financial support for graduate study.

Furthermore, students pursuing education-related degrees might be eligible for the TEACH Grant, which provides grants for students who commit to teach in a high-need field in a low-income area.

If you’re an international student, there are scholarships specifically for you. For example, the Aga Khan Foundation provides scholarships for postgraduate studies to students from select developing countries. Many universities also offer scholarships specifically for their international students.

While pursuing an online PhD can be a significant investment, it’s important to remember the wide array of scholarship opportunities available. Start your search early, and don’t be discouraged if you don’t get the first scholarship you apply for. There are numerous opportunities out there, and every bit of financial aid can help reduce the burden of tuition costs.

By researching and applying for scholarships, you can make your dream of earning a PhD a more affordable reality.

Frequently Asked Questions about Online PhD Programs and Scholarships

The cost of an online PhD program can vary and doesn’t always mean it’s cheaper than a traditional program. Costs can be influenced by the university, the specific program, and other associated costs like technology and learning materials.

Yes, many universities, professional associations, corporations, and government bodies offer scholarships specifically for online PhD students. Additionally, there are scholarships available for specific groups, such as underrepresented minorities, women in STEM, or first-generation college students.

Start with the financial aid office of the university you’re considering. They can provide information about institutional scholarships. You should also research professional associations, industry scholarships, and government grants in your field of study.

Yes, many scholarships are available for international students. Some are offered by universities for their international students, while others are provided by external organizations.

It’s best to start your scholarship search early, even before you apply to the PhD program. Scholarship application deadlines can be as early as a year before the academic year starts, so early preparation can increase your chances of securing a scholarship.

Not all, but some online PhD programs do require students to spend a certain amount of time on campus. It’s important to consider these requirements as they can lead to additional costs.

While less common, there are full-tuition scholarships available. However, most scholarships cover a portion of tuition fees or provide a set amount of financial aid.

In many cases, yes. However, this depends on the specific guidelines of each scholarship. Some scholarships may have restrictions on receiving additional financial aid, so it’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully.

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Best Online PhD Programs of 2024

Written by Kristen Scatton , Reviewed by Blanca Villagomez Interviews with Blanca Villagomez

Updated: September 20, 2023

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Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Earning a PhD is among the highest educational achievements. Thanks to online learning, PhD degrees are more accessible than ever. But given the specific needs of doctoral students, including faculty mentorship, research support, and funding, choosing the right online PhD program can be challenging.

That’s why Intelligent.com’s research team evaluated dozens of online PhD programs based on multiple data points, including graduation and retention rates, cost, rankings, and curriculum, to create our list of the best online PhD programs in 2023. We also spoke with Blanca Villagomez, a program counselor and coordinator at UC-Irvine, for insight into the PhD admissions process, including what students should know about online PhDs and how to select an online PhD program, and answers to frequently asked questions.

What You Should Know About Online PhD Programs

As the highest level of education an individual can receive, a PhD is a significant investment of time and energy. Therefore, “It’s important to make an informed decision when choosing a PhD program,” Villagomez says. “The best fit is the one that will align with your career goals, research interests, and personal needs.”

Whether online or in-person, PhD programs typically include more independent study, research, writing, and 1:1 interaction with faculty than bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Therefore, there are some unique considerations students have to account for when selecting an online PhD program.

PhD versus professional doctorate degree

First, it’s important to understand the difference between a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and a professional doctorate degree , such as an EdD or DNP. A PhD is a research-focused degree, best suited for students who want to generate new knowledge in their field of study. A professional doctorate prepares students to apply the highest level of knowledge to their particular industry or job. Your current career and intended professional trajectory will influence which type of degree best suits you.

Research needs

As PhD programs are research-driven, gaining clarity on your specific research interests is another important step in the process. This will help you find a program that offers the faculty and institutional support and opportunities you’ll need to pursue your research interests. It will also help determine whether you’ll have in-person requirements, such as working in a lab or conducting field research.

Accreditation

As at other levels of post-secondary education, doctoral students need to ensure that the institutions they’re attending are going to provide a high-quality education. One way to do this is by verifying the school’s accreditation status. In the U.S., colleges and universities can have regional or national accreditation . Both types of accreditation ensure institutions are offering quality education, although regionally accredited schools are typically held to more rigorous standards. You can confirm a school’s accreditation status via the U.S. Department of Education’s database .

Non-profit and for-profit status

It’s also wise to check whether an institution is non-profit or for-profit, especially when dealing with online degrees. A school’s status can impact your ability to get student loans, influence how the administration spends your tuition money, and affect your post-graduation employment options.

In the world of higher education, for-profit schools are also commonly known as diploma mills, focused more on bringing in tuition money than on providing high-quality education. Non-profit schools, on the other hand, must spend their money on the institution, leading to more investment in infrastructure, faculty and staff, and student services.

Class schedules

Because of their highly specialized nature, PhD programs are often more flexible than undergraduate or master’s programs, even in brick-and-mortar settings. Online learning creates even more convenience with the ability to learn asynchronously.

In asynchronous classes, there are no set meeting times. Instead, lessons are taught via prerecorded lectures, videos, reading assignments, and homework, and students can access them 24/7. This learning format offers maximum scheduling flexibility, but requires strong self-motivation and time-management skills, and has limited opportunities for direct engagement with faculty and fellow students.

Other programs may teach through synchronous classes, which meet virtually at designated times, or a combination of asynchronous and synchronous classes.

Our Research

This list features some of the best online PhD programs at top colleges across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation as well as the student resources provided for online students. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology .

Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online PhD programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report among others to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.

Online Doctorate Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The Top 40 Online PhD Programs

intelligent score 99.96

#1 OnlineU #4 Online College Plan #11 College Consensus

School Information

Gainesville, FL

Graduation Rate: 72%

Admission Rate: 66%

Urbanicity: City

School Size: Medium

Delivery Format Online, On-Campus

Required Credits to Graduate 60

Estimated Cost per Credit Resident: $111 Non-Resident: $500

accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 352-273-4478

intelligent score 98.92

#2 The Grad Cafe #3 OnlineU #10 Online College Plan #40 College Consensus

Washington, DC

Graduation Rate: 82%

Admission Rate: 50%

Delivery Format Online

Required Credits to Graduate 54

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,625

accreditation Middle States Commission on Higher Education

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 833-330-1454

intelligent score 98.36

#12 Online College Plan #30 College Consensus

Tallahassee, FL

Graduation Rate: 81%

Admission Rate: 37%

School Size: Large

Required Credits to Graduate 68-78

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $444 Out-of-State: $1,075

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 850-644-4635

intelligent score 97.67

#22 College Consensus

West Lafayette, IN

Graduation Rate: 77%

Admission Rate: 69%

Delivery Format Hybrid

Required Credits to Graduate 90

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $700 Out-of-State: $750

accreditation Higher Learning Commission

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 765-743-0709

intelligent score 95

#24 College Consensus

College Station, TX

Graduation Rate: 83%

Admission Rate: 64%

Required Credits to Graduate 64-96

Estimated Cost per Credit $717-$852

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 979-845-8201

intelligent score 94.89

#31 College Consensus

Villanova, PA

Graduation Rate: 88%

Admission Rate: 25%

Urbanicity: Suburban

Required Credits to Graduate 46

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,541

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 610-519-7090

intelligent score 93.18

#11 Online College Plan #41 College Consensus

Clemson, SC

Admission Rate: 49%

Required Credits to Graduate 54-65

Estimated Cost per Credit $521-$955

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 864-656-3195

intelligent score 92.75

#32 College Consensus

Graduation Rate: 73%

Admission Rate: 88%

Required Credits to Graduate 63

Estimated Cost per Credit $762

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 410-704-4723

intelligent score 92.66

#3 The Grad Cafe

Lubbock, TX

Graduation Rate: 63%

Admission Rate: 68%

Delivery Format Online, Hybrid

Required Credits to Graduate 60-90

Estimated Cost per Credit $578

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 806-742-2787

intelligent score 92.56

#5 The Grad Cafe

Williamsburg, KY

Graduation Rate: 57%

Admission Rate: 85%

Urbanicity: Town

Estimated Cost per Credit $549

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 606-539-4390

intelligent score 92.13

Tuscaloosa, AL

Graduation Rate: 69%

Admission Rate: 79%

Required Credits to Graduate 60-72

Estimated Cost per Credit $440

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 205-348-0089

intelligent score 91.03

Graduation Rate: 84%

Admission Rate: 53%

Required Credits to Graduate 68

Estimated Cost per Credit $2,250

accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 310-258-2850

intelligent score 90.9

Grand Forks, ND

Graduation Rate: 52%

Admission Rate: 89%

Estimated Cost per Credit $498

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 701-777-3000

intelligent score 89.58

Worcester, MA

Graduation Rate: 89%

Admission Rate: 60%

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,610

accreditation New England Commission of Higher Education

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 508-831-5301

intelligent score 89.48

Virginia Beach, VA

Graduation Rate: 49%

Admission Rate: 41%

Required Credits to Graduate 60-67

Estimated Cost per Credit $670-$1,020

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-373-5504

intelligent score 86.04

Pittsburgh, PA

Graduation Rate: 80%

Admission Rate: 84%

Required Credits to Graduate 47-56

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,699

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 412-396-6000

intelligent score 85.21

Kansas City, MO

Graduation Rate: 54%

Admission Rate: 76%

Required Credits to Graduate 61-73

Estimated Cost per Credit Resident: $707 Non-Resident: $1,327

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 816-235-8652

intelligent score 84.55

Montgomery, AL

Graduation Rate: 28%

Admission Rate: 100%

School Size: Small

Required Credits to Graduate 51-60

Estimated Cost per Credit $595-$875

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 888-790-8080 ext.1

intelligent score 82.49

Admission Rate: 70%

Estimated Cost per Credit $500

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 318-342-3145

intelligent score 82.16

Berrien Springs, MI

Graduation Rate: 60%

Admission Rate: 82%

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,386-$1,428

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 269-471-7771

intelligent score 81.02

Graduation Rate: 64%

Required Credits to Graduate 91-97

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $438 Out-of-State: $656

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-872-0369

intelligent score 78.67

Lynchburg, VA

Graduation Rate: 36%

Admission Rate: 99%

Estimated Cost per Credit $395-$595

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-424-9596

intelligent score 78.59

Graduation Rate: 47%

Required Credits to Graduate 30-50

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,160

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 305-899-3100

intelligent score 76.6

Terre Haute, IN

Graduation Rate: 45%

Admission Rate: 94%

Required Credits to Graduate 66-90

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $450 Out-of-State: $585

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 812-237-3005

intelligent score 76.4

Indianapolis, IN

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $500-$625 Out-of-State: $657-$1,664

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 844-948-4863

intelligent score 75.58

Mississippi State, MS

Graduation Rate: 62%

Required Credits to Graduate 40-77

Estimated Cost per Credit $562

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 662-325-7400

intelligent score 75.55

Admission Rate: 72%

Required Credits to Graduate 75

Estimated Cost per Credit Resident: $429 Non-Resident: $1,333 Out-of-State: $515

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 303-315-6300

intelligent score 73.84

Beverly, MA

Graduation Rate: 75%

Admission Rate: 77%

Required Credits to Graduate 45-60

Estimated Cost per Credit $960

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 978-232-2199

intelligent score 73.34

Las Cruces, NM

Graduation Rate: 53%

Admission Rate: 57%

Required Credits to Graduate 66

Estimated Cost per Credit $444

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-662-6678

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Find The Best Online Degree Program For You

Online phd degree frequently asked questions, how much does an online phd degree cost.

According to EducationData.org , the average cost of a PhD is $96,800. The cost of certain professional doctorate degrees, like a Doctorate of Psychology, or PsyD, can be higher, at $115,500. Overall, a number of factors impact the cost of a PhD, some of which are unique to this type of degree.

Many PhD programs are fully-funded

One unique factor is the type of financial support schools offer PhD students. Many PhD programs are fully or partially funded , meaning the school covers some or all of the cost of a student’s tuition and fees, as well providing them with a stipend to cover living expenses.

This funding typically comes with work obligations, such as teaching undergraduate classes. Before accepting a funded place in a PhD program, students should confirm the work expectations and determine how their hourly wage breaks down. Many universities have recently come under scrutiny for their treatment of PhD students, particularly in regards to imbalances between work expectations and payments.

Tuition is the primary cost associated with an online PhD

Some PhD programs charge students tuition on a per-credit basis, while others charge a flat-rate tuition fee for the term (this is more common when students are in the dissertation phase of their program).

Either way, the specific tuition amount a school charges its students depends on a few factors.

• Institution status — Students will typically pay a lower tuition rate at a public university than a private university. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that in the 2020-21 academic year, the average annual tuition for graduate programs was $12,394 at public schools, and $26,621 at private schools.
• Student residency status — However, for public universities, there’s a caveat. These institutions often charge different tuition rates based on whether students are in-state or out-of-state. This is especially important to be aware of if you’re an online student attending a public college in a different state. Private universities charge students the same tuition regardless of where they live.
• Degree program — Schools may charge different tuition rates for different programs, based on popularity, resources needed to run the program, and projected ROI.

Other costs to consider for an online PhD

There are other costs to consider when creating a budget for your PhD. These include:

• Fees — Schools may charge students additional fees for online student services, technical support, labs, and more.
• Technology — Reliable, high-quality hardware, like a computer, webcam, and microphone, is essential for success in an online program. Students also need to invest in reliable, high-speed internet so they can fully participate in classes, watch videos and recorded lessons, and complete assignments without interruption.
• Research costs — Even if you don’t know what exactly your dissertation topic will be at this point, it’s worth it to consider what costs might be associated with your future research. Will you need access to labs or specific equipment? Does your research require travel? Are you going to need to compensate study participants? Find out if your program will cover these costs, or if you’ll be paying out of pocket.
• Travel — As mentioned before, even if your PhD classes can be completed online, you may still need to go to a physical location to complete research or clinical components of your program. This means transportation costs like gas, parking, or public transit. Also, many PhD programs encourage students to attend professional events like conferences and symposiums for networking and presentation purposes, which can mean paying for registration fees, accommodations, and transportation.

There are ways to make an online PhD more affordable

The good news is, there are some factors specific to online PhD programs that can help lower costs.

• Room and board — Online students don’t have to pay for room and board at their school, meaning they have more control over what they pay for housing, food, and other living expenses.
• Location — Even if you’re attending a school located in a pricey area, being an online student means you can live somewhere with a lower cost of living. Additionally, many public schools are now offering the same tuition rates to students regardless of their residency status.
• Maintaining a job — Having a more flexible class schedule means it’s easier for students to work full- or part-time jobs while completing their degree. Besides maintaining a source of income, this can also help students if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits.

Calculating the overall cost of a PhD can be tricky. If you have questions, we recommend you contact the school’s financial aid office to review specifics of tuition and fees as well as funding opportunities.

How long does it take to earn an online PhD degree?

The length of time it takes to earn an online PhD degree varies due to the research emphasis and curriculum design of these types of programs.

“Earning a PhD requires a much longer time investment compared to a bachelor’s or master’s degree,” Villagomez says. “Many programs require a minimum commitment of four years, while others can extend well beyond that.”

Unlike bachelor’s and master’s degrees, which typically have structured class sequences designed to be completed in a minimum amount of time, PhD programs include more independent study and open-ended research.

PhD students typically participate in 1-2 years of structured classes, before moving into the dissertation phase of their program. The length of time a student spends on their dissertation varies based on the particular field, their dissertation topic, funding, research parameters, and other factors. Many programs typically give students 3-5 years to complete their research and defend their dissertation, although this depends on the specific program, area of study, and dissertation topic.

Earning a PhD online may help students complete their degree faster, as they may have the flexibility to move through coursework at a quicker pace than if they were participating in on-campus classes. If you have questions about the duration of your program or options for accelerated online classes, talk to a program faculty member or admission representative.

How do I apply to an online PhD degree program?

The advanced nature of PhD means that most programs are selective, with a rigorous application process. Therefore, it’s important to carefully review application steps and admissions requirements before beginning an application. Some programs have specific qualifications, such as a minimum amount of work or research experience or a specific master’s degree.

The first step in applying is submitting an application and other requisite application materials. These can include transcripts from your bachelor’s and master’s programs, recommendation letters, a resume, a personal statement, and GRE scores.

Other application materials that PhD programs may request include research (either published or in manuscript form), professional credentials, and academic writing samples. In-person or virtual interviews with faculty are also common in the PhD application process.

Is earning a PhD degree worth it?

“Earning an online PhD can provide you with opportunities to advance your career, develop an area of expertise in your chosen field, and produce scholarly research,” Villagomez says.

They can also increase an individual’s earning potential, while lowering their risk of unemployment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median weekly salary for individuals with a professional degree is $1,924; PhDs earn $1,909. Meanwhile, in 2021, the unemployment rate was just 1.5% for those with a PhD, compared to an overall unemployment rate of 4.7%.

While career opportunities for PhDs vary based on field of study, one common career path for doctoral students, college professors, is experiencing faster than average growth. BLS predicts that postsecondary institutions will add 132,600 new instructor positions by 2031.

However, Villagomez offers a word of caution. “It’s important to keep in mind that PhD programs often require a minimum commitment of 5 years, while others can extend well beyond that. While an online PhD program can offer more flexibility and provide access to a niche academic community, determining its worth depends on your personal needs, educational goals, and potential career outcomes. I recommend you evaluate those variables seriously to make an informed decision.”

How to Choose the Right Online PhD Program

Step 1: confirm that an online phd is right for you, step 2: research schools and programs, step 3: prepare for tests and applications, step 4: select your program, step 5: determine how you’ll pay for your degree.

If you’re ready to pursue a PhD degree, here are the key steps to get you started.

Do preliminary research to confirm that earning a PhD online is an option for your field of study, or if there will also be in-person components you’ll have to complete.

This is also an ideal time to reflect on the commitment and energy a PhD program, even an online one, requires, and how you’ll fit your PhD work into your daily life . This is particularly important for individuals who’ll be attending school while working, raising kids, or fulfilling other personal obligations.

Also consider what kind of learner you are, especially if this is the first time you’ll be learning online. Individuals who are kinesthetic or visual learners will need to adjust to online instruction methodologies, which tend to rely on readings, lectures, and pre-recorded videos.

Once you know an online PhD is right for you, it’s time to start exploring available programs. You’ll likely start your search based on your field of study, but there are some parameters you can set to ensure the program meets your needs. Basic filters include synchronous or asynchronous classes, a fully remote or hybrid program, full-time or part-time enrollment, and daytime, evening, or weekend classes.

Villagomez also advises students that, because of the focused nature of doctoral study, it’s more important to ensure they fit within their specific department rather than in the larger university. One way students can determine this is by considering the reputation of the department’s faculty.

“Since PhD programs require close working relationships with professors, specifically faculty advisors who support your research and dissertation, you need to consider faculty reputation when choosing a program,” Villagomez says. “Evaluate faculty profiles and research to see if it aligns with your interests.”

Whenever possible, seek out opportunities to engage with faculty from the programs that interest you, through virtual open houses and recruitment events, professional conferences, and social media. Building these relationships is also helpful as faculty typically play a role in admissions decisions for PhD students. You can also learn more about programs Schools and programs increasingly use social media as a way to engage with prospective students as well.

Prospective PhD students should also be mindful of funding options, Villagomez says. PhD students rely heavily on assistantships and fellowships to subsidize their education research. It’s important to research what financial support a program provides students, to ensure you have the means to complete your degree.

As you’re researching programs, you’ll also want to make note of their application requirements and deadlines.

Because of the specialized nature of PhD degrees, programs tend to be highly selective and have rigorous admissions requirements. These can include specific master’s degrees, professional experience thresholds, examples of prior research, and minimum scores on tests like the GRE. You’ll want to ensure that you meet all the minimum requirements of a particular program before investing the time and money in applying.

Being mindful of admissions deadlines can also help you stay on track. Some programs only accept new students once a year, while others offer multiple enrollment opportunities. If you’ll need to complete admissions requirements, like preparing for and taking the GRE , you’ll want to give yourself extra time for that step in the process.

Once you’ve researched programs, consulted with faculty, determined funding opportunities, and gotten answers to all your questions, it’s time to decide which program or programs you’ll apply to.

Because of the specialized nature of PhDs, students tend to apply to fewer programs than they would for a bachelor’s or master’s. That said, there’s no magic number of PhD programs you should apply to. Focus on the programs that will provide you with the research, professional development, and networking opportunities you seek, and put your best foot forward in your applications to those schools.

Financing a PhD looks somewhat different than paying for a bachelor’s or a master’s. PhD students rely more heavily on funding from schools and programs in the form of assistantships and fellowships, but those often come with work obligations, such as teaching. Selection for certain types of funding may be competitive as well. Students should make sure they understand the types and amounts of funding a program provides, so they can budget accordingly.

Individuals who are employed may choose to continue working while they earn their PhD. In this case, you should find out if your employer provides tuition assistance benefits , which can help offset the cost of your program.

Online PhD Degree Scholarship Database

Intelligent scholarship finder tool, (isc) graduate scholarships.

Award Amount: $1,000 - $5,000

Due Date: Closed for 2024

Degree Type: Graduate (Masters or Doctoral)

Major: Cybersecurity or Information Assurance

Minimum GPA: 3.5

Essay Required: Yes

Provided by: Center for Cyber Safety and Education

Location: Nationwide

Recommendations Required: Yes

AAUW International Fellowships

Award Amount: $20,000

Due Date: November 15, annually

Degree Type: Graduate (Masters, Doctoral, Postdoctoral)

Major: Not listed

Minimum GPA: Not listed

Essay Required: Not listed

Provided by: American Association of University Women

AAUW's Fellowships and Grants

Award Amount: Varies

Due Date: 11/15/24

Degree Type: Undegraduate(Bachelor) Graduate (Masters, Doctoral, and Postdoctoral)

Recommendations Required: Not listed

AICPA Fellowship for Minority Doctoral Students

Award Amount: $12,000

Degree Type: Graduate Doctoral (Ph.D)

Major: Accounting

Provided by: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Ann Olson Doctoral Scholarship

Award Amount: $7,500

Degree Type: Graduate Doctoral (Ph.D. or DNP )

Major: Nursing

Provided by: Oncology Nursing Foundation

Berkman Charitable Foundation Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,000

Due Date: July 15, annually

Degree Type: Undegraduate Graduate

Major: Marketing

Provided by: Harold and Muriel Berkman Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Byron Hanke Fellowship

Award Amount: $3,000-$5,000 over one year, or as determined by the Foundation

Provided by: Foundation for Community Association Research

E. Craig Brandenburg Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,000 - $2,000

Due Date: Varies

Degree Type: All

Provided by: General Board of Higher Education and Ministry

Fahs-Bek Doctoral Dissertation Grant

Award Amount: $5,000

Due Date: Not listed

Provided by: Fahs-Beck Fund for Research and Experimentation

Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship

Award Amount: $27,000

Degree Type: Graduate (Predoctoral)

Major: Research-based major (American studies, anthropology, archaeology, art and theater history, astronomy, chemistry, communications, computer science, cultural studies, earth sciences, economics, engineering, ethnic studies, ethnomusicology, geography, history, international relations, language, life sciences, linguistics, literature, mathematics, performance study, philosophy, physics, political science, psychology, religious studies, sociology, urban planning, and women's studies). Also eligible are interdisciplinary ethnic studies programs, such as African American studies and Native American studies, and other interdisciplinary programs, such as area studies, peace studies, and social justice

Provided by: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

Learn More About Online PhD Degrees

Have additional questions about earning an online PhD degree? Our research team and experts have provided answers to students’ frequently asked questions about online PhD degrees, including how to get a PhD online, how much an online PhD degree program costs, and the legitimacy of online PhD programs. You can find these resources below.

• Best Free PhD Programs Online
• Best One-Year PhD Programs Online
• Can You Get a PhD Online?
• How Much Does An Online PhD Cost?
• Are Online PhD Programs Legitimate?

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Online Graduate School Guidebook

Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

How to Choose a Program, Get In and Graduate

Graduate school gives students a tremendous opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and financially. The following guide explores the graduate school landscape, from the wealth of degree options to the rise of online programs. Learn more about how to choose the right graduate program and what it takes to succeed.

Should You Go to Graduate School?

Students considering graduate school have many pros and cons to weigh, even long before the program selection and application process begins. While graduate school involves a large time and financial investment, it can also provide the opportunity to learn skills necessary for career advancement.

Any time I speak with students about graduate school, my first question to them is always, “Why do you want to go to graduate school, and what are you trying to achieve? Andrew Selepak, Director, MA in Mass Communication, University of Florida

Before beginning the quest for a graduate degree, there are a few basic questions to address. To understand whether starting on the path to graduate school is something worth exploring, use the checklist below to find out how ready for the journey you may be today.

If you checked at least four of the above boxes… Great! You have an idea of what you want to do, and already understand why graduate school would make sense for you. This page will walk you through the next steps in preparing for grad school , including providing decision making tips on choosing the right college and program and staying organized from pre-application to post-acceptance.

If you checked fewer than four of the above boxes… You’re in the right place–this guide is a good place to start. We’ll cover the differences between the types of graduate degrees students can earn, explain how online grad programs work, provide helpful resources for breaking down the application process, and offer scholarship and other financial aid resources to help make paying for grad school easier.

If you’re still not convinced grad school is the right path for you… Take a look at some of the benefits below, or see what a university expert has to say about taking the leap towards earning a graduate degree.

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The Benefits of Graduate School

For some careers in law, education, healthcare, and social work, graduate degrees are not optional; they are required. Other industries may base promotions and other career advancement on the level of degree an employee is willing to acquire–many working professionals return to college to earn a graduate degree to boost earning power, grow their career, and move upwards in rank or professional status. The key benefits of graduate school include:

Greater Employment Opportunities

More job opportunities.

Earning a graduate degree can potentially increase students’ job opportunities by preparing them for employment in a different sector of the economy. Potentially higher earnings.

Master’s graduates boast higher weekly earnings than bachelor’s graduates, taking home an average of $236 more per week. Doctoral graduates earn a median weekly income of $1,825, which is $627 more than those with a bachelor’s. More job security.

According to The College Board , during economic downturns between 1999-2012, workers with undergraduate and advanced degrees experienced half the layoffs that fell upon workers with only a high school diploma. Employer recognition.

Employers are starting to recognize the benefits of having employees with advanced degrees. The American Council of Education estimates about 20% of graduate students receive financial assistance to attend grad school directly from their employers .

Greater Career Advancement

Employer preferred.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employers look favorably on employees that return to college for advanced degrees, professional certificates, and continuing education. Requirement for advancement.

Some job entry or promotion requirements are pegged to the completion of a graduate degree. More job growth.

The greatest job growth from 2012-2022, according to the BLS, will be in positions requiring applicants to hold a master’s degree. Good ROI.

Studies of education reimbursement programs offered by employers show excellent returns on investment , a mark of added job security and growth potential within a company.

Achievement, Expertise, and Credibility

Enhanced learning.

Graduate students gain invaluable experience collaborating with top researchers in their field, which enhances one’s credibility and expertise. Funding networking.

Enrollment in a graduate degree program opens doors to funding for research, internships, and fellowships with major corporate or governmental agencies and memberships with professional associations.

Types of Graduate Degrees

Graduate schools offer programs leading to research or professional degrees at the master’s and doctoral levels. Coursework and research are considerably more challenging than in undergraduate studies and focus on a specialized discipline. Master’s degrees typically take two years to complete, while doctoral degrees may take 4-8 years. Class sizes are usually smaller compared to undergraduate programs and require a considerable amount of independent research. Grad students may finance their studies in part through student teaching or through loans, grants and scholarships.

Professional Master’s Degree

Whether online or campus-based, professional master’s degree programs are often considered terminal degrees for certain careers in business, government and nonprofit sectors. Some popular professional master’s degrees include the master of fine arts, master of social work (MSW), master of business administration (MBA), master of arts in teaching, master of health administration, master of public administration, and master of public health.

Professional master’s degree programs generally take 1-2 years to complete, depending on the school and format. Accelerated online professional master’s degrees, for instance, can shorten the time to graduation. Like their traditional counterparts, online professional master’s degree programs may require internships and collaborative research projects.

Students communicate with peers online (via chat, email, and/or discussion board) to coordinate joint work. Online colleges and universities typically have partnerships with businesses, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations in various locations, allowing online students to pursue internship opportunities close to home.

Academic or Research Master’s Degree

An academic or research master’s degree provides intellectual growth and advanced experience in research and theory. Many working professionals return to school to earn this type of degree and bolster their credentials. An academic or research master’s degree is usually composed of 2-3 years of required courses, laboratory or library research, 30-54 semester credits, and a related practicum or internship.

Depending on the program, students may sit for comprehensive examinations or complete a master’s thesis to meet graduation requirements. Second-year master’s students may declare a research focus and work with an academic mentor to complete degree requirements or transition to a doctoral program within the department.

The most common academic and research master’s degrees are the master of arts and master of science. Unlike undergraduate study, the curriculum at the master’s degree level focuses entirely on the field of study and specialties within it. The degree may also qualify graduates as postsecondary teachers in the major field.

Professional Doctoral Degree

This type of degree emphasizes the practical application of knowledge and skills in a specific area. It often represents the culmination of specialized training for entry into advanced careers in fields such as education, law, medicine and psychology.

Online education doctorates are among the most popular distance learning programs. Other examples of popular professional doctorates include the doctor of business administration, doctor of medicine, doctor of pharmacy, juris doctor, and doctorate of psychology. Professional doctoral degrees are also offered in the fields of dentistry, chiropractic, physical therapy, veterinary medicine, advanced practice nursing and the ministry.

It takes 3-7 years following completion of a bachelor’s degree to complete a professional doctoral degree, depending on the chosen field, program requirements, and the student’s abilities. Self-paced and accelerated online degree programs can shorten time to graduation; however, not all professional doctorates are offered fully online because of the intensive laboratory and clinical components of the degree. For example, no fully online law degrees are currently accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA); however the ABA approved a hybrid law degree in 2014.

Featured Online Doctoral Programs

Research doctorate.

Colleges and universities across the nation offer doctor of philosophy degrees. The Ph.D. represents the pinnacle of formal education. It takes approximately 7-8 years to complete a research doctorate following the completion of undergraduate education. Some doctoral programs require the minimum completion of a master’s degree for admittance. Many colleges, however, offer dual programs where bachelor’s degree holders can work towards a master’s and Ph.D. simultaneously.

Doctoral graduation requirements usually include completion of four semesters of intensive study, comprehensive qualifying examinations, and completion and defense of a research thesis or dissertation. The dissertation defense is presented before a committee of academic specialists in the student’s field. For online students, dissertations can be defended using video conferencing applications, including the school’s digital programs such as Blackboard Collaborate or Skype.

Joint Degree Programs

A joint, or concurrent, degree program allows graduate students to earn two graduate-level degrees simultaneously. These interdisciplinary degrees are especially useful for students who want to apply one area of expertise to a different career sector. For example, a business major may want to include a specialization in global healthcare, or an environmental science major may want to combine studies in sustainable engineering.

Most schools do not charge additional tuition for joint degrees. According to Stanford University, some 20% of their MBA students pursue a joint degree. However, students should know that the course load in a joint degree program may increase completion time. Many joint master’s degree students include summer school sessions to finish their degrees on time. Online joint degree programs vary by institution, but students can finish one degree first as part of the requirements, adding up to 20 credits to earn the second degree.

Examples of common joint degrees include JD/MA, JD/MBA, MBA/MSW and the MA/MFS.

Preparing for Graduate School

Preparing to make the transition to graduate school is different for everyone. Grad school students may come from a variety of professional backgrounds, with a wide range of former educational experiences. The average age of a grad school student is 33 years old, according to the 2016 National Postsecondary Student Aid Survey, with younger students reporting receiving the most financial aid for their time in grad school. But no matter where you are in your professional or educational journey, our expert suggests proper preparation is key.

For those thinking about graduate school, the most important thing to consider is what they are trying to achieve by attending and if the sacrifices necessary are worth it. Andrew Selepak, Director, MA in Mass Communication, University of Florida

More Decision-Making Tips

Online graduate schools.

Colleges, universities, and professional schools offer online graduate degrees designed specifically to meet the needs of busy working professionals and students with families. Master’s and doctoral degree programs may be delivered entirely online or as hybrid programs that combine traditional campus degree work with online components.

What Is Online Grad School Like?

Online learning shares many similarities with traditional, on-campus learning. The curriculum rarely differs between online and traditional courses. Additionally, both distance learning and on-campus students work with the same dissertation advisors. Here are some of the main differences for online learners:

Location: Distance learners may take classes from home, the office, or coffee shops. Students interested in a far-away university may find this feature especially helpful. Plus, online students can often watch lectures and add comments to a class discussion board at their convenience. Sometimes instructors run online courses synchronously, which means students still need to log on at specific times.

Technology: Online graduate students can meet with their research committee for meetings or conduct their oral defense virtually thanks to technology like Skype or Google Hangouts. Online courses can be delivered in synchronous or asynchronous formats, and include multimedia presentations, chat discussions, video and voice conferencing, and email. Distance learning students also enjoy access to university libraries, special collections, and departmental resources.

Flexibility: Graduate programs also require additional conditions for graduation, like dissertation research or supervised professional experience. Online grad students can fulfill their practicum or internship hours in their local communities. Usually faculty members simply need to review and approve of this professional experience.

What Are the Most Popular Online Graduate Degrees?

Below is a sampling of some of the most popular online graduate degrees, including information on admission and graduation requirements and core academic elements:

Online MBA degrees have grown in popularity among students who wish to enhance their credentials and move into management. Admission requirements typically include completion of an undergraduate degree, successful scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test, professional references, and submission of all college transcripts. Some schools also require a statement of purpose and an online or in-person interview, as well as two years of professional experience in a relevant field.

It generally takes two years to complete an online MBA, depending on the depth of the program and the student’s ability to keep pace. Online MBA degrees can be full or part time, and some schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in less time. In addition to core business administration curriculum, students can specialize in a particular area. Common MBA concentrations include technology, healthcare, entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and supply chain management.

An online Ph.D. in education curriculum and instruction caters to working education professionals who want to deepen their knowledge of administration in curriculum assessment, development, and leadership. Accelerated three-year Ph.D. programs allow educators to apply learning directly to the workplace. Applicants usually need a master’s degree to apply and must submit all previous transcripts, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated professional experience.

To graduate, candidates must complete a minimum of 68 credits composed of coursework and field experience, along with the completion and defense of a scholarly dissertation for graduation. Blended or hybrid elements of the degree include up to two weeks of campus residency and/or laboratory hours arranged within parent school districts. Coursework includes studies in developmental and learning theory, instructional leadership, social and economic contexts, and qualitative case studies.

One of the most popular online degrees, the MS in social work is a common minimal state requirement for career licensing in the social services fields. Many applicants already work in educational and public assistance settings, but they need the additional degree to assume roles such as school counselor, social worker, substance abuse counselor, and program administrator.

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree and, in some cases, demonstrated social work experience and reference letters from former teachers and current employers. This self-paced academic program typically takes three years to complete, including 1,200 hours of field internships arranged in the student’s community.

Coursework includes studies in social welfare policy, human behavior, cultural diversity and special populations, and clinical practice. Depending on the school, graduation requirements may include a comprehensive exam and completion of a master’s research project.

This two-year, self-paced online master’s in engineering degree meets the educational needs of professionals entering specialized engineering roles or for career advancement into leadership positions. Master’s students need to complete 25-30 units in graduate courses, with at least 18 units in electrical engineering, a major research project, and a passing score on a comprehensive examination.

To apply, candidates need an undergraduate degree in math, engineering, or a related hard science, and they must provide transcripts of undergraduate work, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. Major areas of study include computer networks and systems, nanotechnology, power systems, optics, and signal processing.

One of the fastest-growing online degrees in the healthcare sector is the master of science in nursing (MSN) . Working registered nurses find that online advanced practice degrees provide the shortest routes to progression in the field. Online MSN programs can include specialized options that allow nurses to concentrate on management, health informatics, and healthcare leadership.

To apply to this two-year, self-paced program, nurses need a baccalaureate nursing degree and a valid state nursing license, as well as at least two years of direct professional nursing experience. Coursework includes advanced studies in financial and human resource management, population-focused healthcare practice, planning and performance assessment, and health policy.

To graduate, students must also complete two advanced nursing practicums and related research projects. Online nursing degree programs are designed to dovetail with student’s employment obligations, and practical assignments may be integrated within the current workplace.

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Graduate school application process.

Graduate schools may use different assessment methods to choose incoming students, but almost all of the graduate colleges and universities in the country, online and campus-based, require certain components from applicants. We cover all the ins and outs of the process, from tips on crafting the perfect personal statement to advice on when and where to apply in our step by step grad school guide below: Online Grad School Guide

Scholarships

Graduate students seeking scholarships to offset the cost of their degree program and living expenses can find scholarships and research fellowships that can help cover costs from one year to an entire degree program. There are scholarships dedicated to most fields, granted by federal and state governmental agencies, professional organizations, trade associations, and independent endowments and foundations. Here are a few examples of scholarships for graduate students.

American Association of University Women Fellowships

• Amount: Varies, to support living expenses
• Eligibility: Open to all students working on dissertations in any field except engineering. Technology and gender studies majors encouraged to apply.

National Black MBA Association

• Amount: Varies
• Eligibility: Must be an African American graduate or doctoral student.

Woodrow Wilson MBA Fellowship in Education Leadership

• Amount: N/A
• Eligibility: Candidates must be willing to attend participating MBA programs and serve as principals for at least three years following graduation.

Find More Scholarships for Grad School Students

Expert Advice: Is Grad School Right for Me?

While there are numerous benefits to attending graduate school, I will address the two biggest.

First, since graduate classes are usually much smaller than undergraduate ones, students get to know their classmates and professors quite well. Such close relationships can reap several benefits. For example, students in graduate school typically have professional experience, so it is possible to learn new perspectives from others in graduate courses in addition to the professor. Additionally, graduate student — those currently employed and those seeking employment — may network with each other to learn about and/or gain career opportunities.

Finally, small class sizes also mean that students get to know their professors. These interpersonal relationships prove valuable when students need assistance with coursework, academic and professional advice, and recommendations — or if they just want to know more about the field.

Second, undergraduate education is intentionally broad, making students better and more productive citizens. This is why undergraduates take courses in math, science, the humanities, the social sciences, and foreign languages. And while it is important to be well rounded, our personal interests are often more specific to a few areas.

Graduate programs focus on specific areas rather than a more generalized education. Students pick a specific graduate program in their area of interest, and then their classes focus on that area. Indeed, graduate school is about specific professional development in an area that interests the student and prepares him/her for a specific career rather than focusing on a broad educational experience to prepare students to serve as productive and informed members of society.

I have always been a cost-benefit person. For those thinking about graduate school, the most important thing to consider is what they are trying to achieve by attending and if the sacrifices necessary are worth it. Graduate school takes both time and money, so it is important to decide if that cost is worth the benefit; otherwise, students may not dedicate themselves in the way necessary for graduate school.

Anytime I speak with students about graduate school, my first question to them is always, “Why do you want to go to graduate school, and what are you trying to achieve?” One of my reasons for going to graduate school in the first place was because I didn’t study my current field when I was an undergrad, so I lacked the knowledge and education in the area in which I wanted to work. Graduate school was the best way for me to fill that gap and demonstrate to others my knowledge in an area.

Students should also realize that there have never been more options when it comes to graduate school. It is possible to attend graduate school in-person at a local university or move to a new town, state, or country. But it is also possible to attend graduate school online at universities around the world. For those who might not be able to move for work or family reasons, they can find online graduate programs in numerous disciplines that will allow them to gain knowledge and skills in a new field or in their existing field to help them advance in their career. So, it is important to think about the reason for wanting a graduate education and then to find the right program that will achieve those goals.

Research the programs out there, and find one with classes that will most benefit them. This also means looking up professors in the program and learning about their areas of expertise and backgrounds to make sure they match what the student wants to learn.

I would also suggest students find out the program’s requirements. Most programs will have application requirements for undergrad GPA or GRE scores. So, it is important to know if those requirements can be met, or if a student might need to take a GRE prep course. I took a GRE prep course to improve my math score because I had not taken a math course since I was an undergrad and needed a refresher.

Remember that, for the most part, graduate school is harder than a bachelor’s program: more reading, more assignments, more work. That said, students are selecting a graduate program that most interests them and most benefits them and their career, which means that despite the work, they should enjoy it. In graduate school, I found myself doing work on weekends because I enjoyed it rather than finding it a chore. When you are doing what you enjoy and working with a purpose, it makes the work a lot easier and more fun.

Applying to and getting through graduate school might seem overwhelming, but several online resources can help students navigate the more intimidating components. Learners can discover ways to help them find scholarships, formulate a thesis topic, and conduct dissertation research.

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Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

Online Ph.D. programs provide students with flexible schedules and affordable tuition. Check out the top-ranked programs in this comprehensive guide.

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Doctor of Education : Doctor of Education

Johns Hopkins’ newly redesigned, global online Doctor of Education is at the forefront of education doctoral programs with the most innovative, challenging, and student-centered program of its kind.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the program continues to lead with the “EdD 2.0” offering, which is ideal for the busy education practitioner within any professional context. Our program recognizes that learning is both lifelong and occurs outside of formal schooling.

The vision of the Johns Hopkins EdD program is to prepare education-practitioners across the country and around the world to think critically about problems within their education environment and develop the insights and capacity to lead positive, sustained change.

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Have questions about our degree programs, the application, or financial aid and costs? Join us for an inside look at a graduate experience defined by innovation and driven by evidence-based research. Learn more about your area of interest or career path, meet some of our faculty, and connect to the Johns Hopkins School of Education community. Check out our admissions events and register for a virtual information session today.

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Core Faculty

Yolanda abel, edd.

Associate Professor

Affiliation

Advanced Studies in Education

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics, Social Context of Education

Camille Bryant, PhD

Joshua travis brown, phd.

Assistant Professor

Marcia Davis, PhD

Associate Professor (Research) Co-Director, Center for Social Organization of Schools Director of Research, Baltimore Education Research Consortium

Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership

Learning & Instruction, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Christine Eith, PhD

Keri guilbault, edd.

Counseling & Educational Studies

Gifted Education, Learning & Instruction

Ranjini Mahinda JohnBull, PhD

Learning & Instruction, Mind, Brain, & Teaching

Olivia Marcucci, PhD

Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Social Context of Education

James Diamond, PhD

Educational Technology, Learning & Instruction

Wendy Osefo, PhD

E. juliana pare-blagoev, edd, eric rice, phd.

Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Laura Flores Shaw, EdD

Assistant Professor Faculty Lead, Doctor of Education

Learning & Instruction

Henry M. Smith, EdD

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics

Program Overview

Exceptional education-practitioners will engage with an internationally renowned faculty to cultivate and practice curiosity, critical discourse, and perspective taking in a unique and rigorous course of study using the lenses of social justice, systems thinking, appropriate research methods, and empirical inquiry.

Coursework includes the latest research on the social determinants of education; mind, brain, and teaching; entrepreneurship; data and measurement; and technology. The redesigned program allows our doctoral students to customize their program by expanding their choice of electives so that they may focus more deeply on their professional interests that align with their problem of practice. Our online EdD prepares education practitioners to be transformational leaders within their professional settings.

The vision of the Johns Hopkins EdD program is to impact complex educational problems across the globe by preparing education practitioners to think critically and systemically about problems within their professional settings and develop deep understanding and insights to lead positive, sustained change within those settings.Our graduates create new areas of research, promote distribution and utilization of research findings in professional practice, and contribute to wider public discourse and policy.

Areas of Interest

The EdD program includes areas of interest. Applicants can indicate one or more areas of interest they think are related to a problem of practice and would like to explore. Current areas of interest are:

Creativity, Advanced Learning, and Twice Exceptionality

Digital age learning and educational technology, entrepreneurial leadership in education, mind, brain, and teaching, urban leadership.

Courses in this area of interest are designed to prepare candidates for leadership roles in advanced academics and gifted education with an emphasis on research and application of current best practices in the field. Based on the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) and Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Advanced Standards in Gifted Education Teacher Training, candidates will develop specialization in leading and evaluating programs and services for students who are creative, advanced, gifted, and twice exceptional. This area of interest is appropriate for candidates who: (a) want to deepen their expertise and prepare for leadership roles in their school, district, or state; (b) work in related nonprofit organizations, independent schools, or plan to develop their own educational enrichment programs; and (c) aspire to move into teacher preparation and research roles.

Available Courses:

• Twice Exceptional Learners
• Creativity in Education
• Seminar I in Gifted and Talented Education
• Leadership of Gifted Education and Talent Development Programs
• Seminar II in Gifted Education and Talent Development Programs
• Research in Gifted Education, Creativity, and Twice Exceptionalities

The Digital Age Learning and Educational Technology area of interest in the EdD program provides students opportunities to take courses in educational communication and technology. Select courses are available from the School of Education’s Digital Age Learning and Educational Technology (DALET) master’s degree program. This program prepares aspiring and practicing professionals and entrepreneurs in the field of educational communication and technology to design, develop, implement, and evaluate digital technology-supported tools and environments for learning across the lifespan in a variety of formal and informal settings, including pre-K–12, higher education, industry, government, and museums.

• Computational Thinking for K-12 Educators
• Explorations in Blended and Hybrid Learning
• Foundations of Online Teaching and Learning
• Fundamentals of Design Thinking
• Gaming and Simulations for Learning
• Instructional Design for Online Learning
• Maker Education: Cultivating Curiosity, Creativity, and Problem Solving in Theory and Practice
• Technology for Learner Variability
• Technology Integration for the 21st Century Learner
• Technology and the Science of Learning

Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education offers a unique opportunity for school and other educational organization leaders in both public and private educational environments. Students develop their knowledge, skills, and dispositions as they engage in leading efforts to build new venture opportunities in varied educational organizations. Through multidisciplinary lenses, educational leaders promote innovation in the paradigms, strategies, values and culture in school systems, social entrepreneurial ventures, and education companies. Each of the courses offers an opportunity to explore leadership theoretical frameworks, identify a Problem of Practice, and create a plan of action, through analysis and synthesis of presentations, readings, and discussion of the current state of multiple educational environments and the visions and challenges for the future.

• Entrepreneurship in Education
• Talent Management and Organizational Finance for Entrepreneurial Leaders
• Data Driven Decision Making
• Partnerships and Educational Organizations

Mind, Brain, and Teaching is designed for educators interested in exploring research from cognitive theories and neurosciences and its potential to inform the education field. Courses promote integration of diverse disciplines that investigate human learning and development. This area of interest builds upon basic and applied research from the fields of cognitive science, psychology and brain sciences, neurology, neuroscience, and education. It provides educators with knowledge of how emerging research in the learning sciences can inform teaching and learning. Students gain the knowledge and skills to interpret basic and applied research and apply relevant findings to educational practices and policies. This area of interest is designed to support the development of knowledge, insights, and competencies among students with two different levels of prior knowledge in the learning sciences: those who have had limited formal exposure to the learning sciences, and those who have a master’s degree or master’s certificate in the learning sciences.

• Fundamentals of Cognitive Development
• Neurobiology of Learning Differences
• Cognitive Processes of Literacy and Numeracy
• Special Topics in Brain Sciences

Cities are usually characterized by diverse populations with rich communities made up of many different races, classes, languages, and nationalities, and this dynamism is a chief strength of urban areas. However, urban schools typically serve populations characterized by high concentrations of poverty and therefore face difficult choices about how to allocate scarce resources. Urban Leadership is designed for educational professionals interested in exploring this dual nature of urban schools through a deep understanding of a Problem of Practice based in their unique context of professional practice. This area of interest prepares educational leaders to work in urban environments through a focus on topics such as building a strength-based understanding of the complexities of urban communities, engaging the latest research on urban educational programs, developing strategies for program improvement, and building partnerships with families, communities, and other organizations.

• Approaches to Urban Education
• Individuals in Urban Context
• Organizations and Institutions
• Partnerships and Community Organizing

Graduates from our EdD program work in diverse areas, including executive roles in educational organizations and start-ups, leadership in K-12 school districts and systems, consultancy in specialized education fields, and more.

• Administrator
• Superintendent
• Instructional Designer
• Chief Learning Officer

100% Online

Continue your full-time career and apply what you learn in real time as you earn your degree 100% online.

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State-specific information for online students.

Students should be aware of additional state-specific information for online programs . Johns Hopkins University is a member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate , which is the knowledge forum on the EdD. It has a membership of over 100 schools of education in the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand working collaboratively to improve professional preparation in education at the highest level.

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Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

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Top Fully Funded PhD 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.

Learn about our editorial policies

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.

Fully funded PhD programs offer students seeking their doctor of philosophy degrees the ultimate experience. With the average cost of a PhD at nearly $81,000 , students are able to focus on their studies without worrying about paying for their degrees or living expenses. Keep reading to learn about some of the top fully funded PhD programs in a variety of majors.

What is a “Doctorate of Philosophy” degree?

A “doctorate of philosophy” degree, better known as a PhD, is among the highest level degrees in the United States. A PhD is awarded after the successful completion of an extensive research and writing project known as a dissertation. Students can earn a PhD in a variety of fields, with most majoring in the humanities or social sciences. 

Further reading: What is a PhD?

How we chose the fully funded PhD programs on our list

We looked for programs that have stellar reputations in their respective majors. It makes sense that the most reputable programs offer the resources that are most important to  PhD students. Working with distinguished professors in their field and having access to outstanding libraries, PhD students will be immersed in the ideal learning environment. 

Opportunities to learn under and network with the most well regarded academics is invaluable for students’ future careers. Finally, we looked for fully funded programs that include not only full tuition coverage, but also living stipends and health insurance. A few of the programs might require students to “give back” in the way of graduate assistantships , so keep that in mind as you read the fine print on each website. 

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The top fully funded phd programs.

The following list is in alphabetical order with no preference for one particular program. We included a variety of majors in different regions, but remember, this is just the start of an exhaustive listing of fully funded PhD programs across the USA and the world!

Boston College

The PhD in English Program at Boston College prepares students for careers in academia or other English related fields. With a focus on critical thinking, writing, and research, the program explores  literature through abstract, cultural, and historical contexts. Students are able to focus on various literature periods, creative writing, and literary theory. Working closely with renowned faculty, the program offers abundant resources and support services including fellowships and publishing opportunities. 

• Location: Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
• Focus of study : Creative writing, critical theory, and literary and cultural studies
• What is included : Full tuition remission, health insurance, and a living stipend

Brown University

Brown University offers a PhD program in Computer Science for students interested in a strong foundation in computer science theory and applications and opportunities to conduct research in collaboration with faculty and peers. Brown’s computer science department has research strengths in artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, computer graphics, and theory. The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct independent research in computer science and to prepare them for academic or industrial careers.

• Location: Providence, Rhode Island
• Focus of study : Algorithms, artificial intelligence, computer systems, databases, and more
• What is included : Full tuition, health insurance, and living stipend

Cornell University

Cornell University offers a PhD program in Chemical Engineering to provide students with a broad foundation in chemical engineering principles and their application to solving real-world problems. The program aims to train students in core courses in chemical engineering, including transport phenomena, thermodynamics, and reaction engineering, while providing them with opportunities to conduct original research. Students in the program have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, funding opportunities, and a supportive community of faculty and fellow students.

• Location: Ithaca, New York
• Focus of study : Chemical engineering principles and research topics including biotechnology, energy, materials science, and process systems engineering
• What is included: Full tuition waiver, stipend, and health insurance

Duke University

Duke University’s PhD program in literature prepares students for careers in academic research and teaching. The program offers a variety of courses in literary theory, criticism, and methodology, as well as opportunities to specialize in specific genres, periods, and cultures. The program also encourages interdisciplinary work, with opportunities to collaborate with scholars in other fields across the university. Graduates of the program have gone on to careers in academia, publishing, journalism, and other areas.

• Location: Durham, North Carolina
• Focus of study : Literary theory, research methods, and a range of cultural and literary texts
• What is included : Five years of living stipend, tuition, and fees support as well as six years of health and dental insurance

Harvard University

The PhD program in Biological Sciences in Public Health at Harvard University is designed for students who want to pursue research in the field of public health with a focus on biological sciences. The program focuses on the intersection of biology and public health, specifically emphasizing understanding the biological mechanisms underlying disease and developing strategies to prevent and treat illness. PhD students receive a rigorous education in both biological and public health sciences, preparing them to become leaders in advancing our understanding of human health and disease.

• Location: Boston, Massachusetts
• Focus of study : Cancer biology, environmental health, genetics, global health and infectious diseases.
• What is included : Competitive funding packages, including tuition waivers, stipends, and health insurance

Johns Hopkins University

The PhD in Nursing program at Johns Hopkins University is designed to prepare nurse scientists who will conduct research to advance nursing science and improve the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. The program is designed to be interdisciplinary, integrating knowledge from nursing, social and behavioral sciences, and biostatistics. PhD students may work as nursing faculty members, researchers, or policymakers, contributing to advancing nursing practice and developing nursing knowledge.

• Location: Baltimore, Maryland
• Focus of study : Aging and dementia care, cardiovascular and chronic care, community and public health, health systems and outcomes, and more
• What is included: Full tuition with a stipend for the first three years of study

New York University

New York University offers a PhD in Education through its Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. The program provides a solid foundation in education theory and research methods, including coursework, research apprenticeships, and independent research. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to pursue careers in academia, research, policy, and leadership in educational organizations. They are also equipped with the skills and knowledge to contribute to developing and implementing policies and practices in education.

• Location: New York, New York
• Focus of study : Learning sciences, educational policy, educational technology, and curriculum development. 
• What is included: Annual stipend, tuition coverage for required course work, and health insurance through the fifth year

Princeton University

Princeton University offers a PhD program in mathematics that is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, industry, or government. The program aims to provide a rigorous and comprehensive mathematics education, emphasizing both the theoretical foundations and applications of the discipline. Students take advanced courses in various mathematical fields, such as algebra, geometry, analysis, topology, and applied mathematics. Princeton’s program in mathematics is widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious and rigorous programs.

• Location: Princeton, New Jersey 
• Focus of study : Algebraic geometry, mathematical physics, number theory, and topology
• What is included: Full tuition and student health plan coverage

Rice University

Rice University offers a PhD in Business through its Jones Graduate School of Business, designed to prepare students for academic careers and research-oriented positions in industry and government. Students in the program take courses in microeconomics, econometrics, statistics, research methods, and business ethics. In addition to coursework and research, students in the program are encouraged to work as teaching or research assistants. Rice University’s PhD program provides students with a strong foundation in business theory and research methods, with opportunities to work with world-class faculty on cutting-edge research projects.

• Location: Houston, Texas
• Focus of study : Accounting, finance, management, marketing, and strategic management
• What is included : Waived tuition fees, a stipend to cover living expenses, health insurance, and may be eligible for research and travel funding to support their research projects

University of Chicago

The PhD program in History at the University of Chicago is a demanding but rewarding experience that prepares students for a career in academia as scholars or teaching in the field of history. The program focuses on developing students’ knowledge of cultural, intellectual, economic, political, and social history under the guidance of highly qualified faculty advisors. PhD students also have the opportunity to present their research at conferences and publish articles in academic journals.

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Focus of study : Ancient, contemporary, early modern, medieval, or modern history 
• What is included: Tuition, student health insurance, and a stipend for living expenses and research support

University of Michigan

The PhD in Engineering at the University of Michigan is a top-rated program that prepares students for research and academic careers in various engineering disciplines, including biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, electrical engineering, and many more. PhD students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct independent research, develop new technologies, and advance the engineering field. The University of Michigan has a strong reputation for research and innovation, and the PhD program in Engineering provides students with ample opportunities to collaborate with faculty and industry partners.

• Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan 
• Focus of study : Materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science.
• What is included: Tuition waiver, monthly living stipend, and health insurance 

University of North Carolina

The PhD program in Media and Communication at the University of North Carolina provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in media and communication theories, research methods, and critical analysis. Students can tailor their studies to their research interests by choosing from a variety of electives and seminars offered by the department. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in academia, media organizations, research institutions, and other industries where communication skills and media literacy are highly valued.

• Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina 
• Focus of study : Media and politics, journalism studies, digital media, global media, media effects, and cultural studies
• What is included: Tuition and fees for three years, health insurance, a $20,000+ annual stipend, and support for research and travel

Keep reading: PhD vs. Doctorate: Everything You Need to Know

Frequently asked questions about fully funded PhDs

What does 'fully funded phd' mean, can international students apply for fully funded phds, how long does a fully funded phd program take, do i need to have a master's degree to apply for a phd, what is the difference between a phd and a professional doctorate, scholarships360 recommended.

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PAYING FOR YOUR PHD Expert Tips, Scholarships Opportunities and Resources for Financing an Advanced Degree

The average yearly tuition for a PhD program is slightly above $16,000, which means students will invest about $80,000 in tuition fees alone for a five-year program. Add in fees, cost-of-living, travel expenses and the figure can easily surpass six figures. Yet, it is possible to fund a PhD program without breaking the bank and going into debt.

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PHD COST BREAKDOWN

The value of a college education should not be understated, but neither should its actual cost. Earning a doctoral degree can be an expensive proposition. According to the latest data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition and fees for a graduate program of study was $16,435 in 2012-2013. The table below outlines the 2012-2013 graduate tuition and fees by academic institution.

• All Institutions $16,435
• Public $10,408
• Private Non-Profit $23,698
• Private For-Profit $14,418

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

A rough calculation of the number of years it takes to complete a doctoral program, multiplied by the average 2012-2013 tuition and fees from the NCES, reveals the following total cost figures by academic field of study.

A five- to six-figure education is something to take seriously as there are debt implications after leaving finishing a PhD program. Graduating doctoral students in 2013 left school with an average debt of just over $15,000, according to the National Science Foundation. By field, students in the Social Sciences, Education and Humanities graduate with the highest levels of student debt:

• Education: $26,566
• Social Sciences: $26,222
• Humanities: $21,485

Conversely, the science and technology fields graduate students with the lowest debt figures:

• Physical Sciences: $6,342
• Engineering: $7,031
• Life Sciences: $11,905
• Physical Sciences 78.2%
• Engineering 75.1%
• Life Sciences 67.2%
• Humanities 48.4%
• Social Sciences 46.5%
• Education 44.1%

Source: National Science Foundation, Survey of Earned Doctorates, 2013

While these figures may seem alarming, a deeper dive into survey data from the National Science Foundation actually paints a more positive picture. Overall, more than 62 percent of all doctoral recipients graduate from school without a single dollar of debt.

Prospective students can use the table below to get a better sense of the percentage of students who take on debt at incremental levels in each field of academic study. A majority of students graduate with $10,000 or less in debt after finishing their doctoral degree.

PhD Cost Factors

The total cost of earning a doctoral degree is variable because of the sheer number of different factors involved. Tuition is not the only cost to consider when thinking about applying to a PhD program.

Typically, students pay full tuition rates during their first three years of doctoral study and receive reduced tuition rates for the remainder of the program. However, the actual cost of tuition does vary and may be dependent on the student’s actual degree program.

Graduate students pay a range of fees, with the most common including:

• Health Services (access to health facilities on campus)
• Health Insurance (personal health insurance)
• Student Activity (subsidizes athletics and other clubs)
• Student Recreation (access to recreational facilities on campus)

Some programs estimate students should be prepared to pay between $3,000 and $4,500 per academic year in student fees and health insurance costs.

Students with a master’s degree or coursework in a similar graduate program may be able to transfer credits into their doctoral program. That can lower the total number of credits required to graduate, which can lower the total cost of the degree. However, some institutions do limit the amount of tuition credits that can be applied for graduate work done in a related field at other institutions.

Whether or not the student has an assistantship does not affect the cost of textbooks and other academic materials. Books are a revolving charge, one a student should plan upon each semester or quarter.

Housing, utilities and food are considered indirect expenses students incur during their education. PhD students should plan on anywhere from $12,000 to $25,000 and up for living expenses each year. Again, this figure is highly variable based on the location of the university and the cost-of-living in that area.

Owning a car means additional budgeting for insurance, car payments and gas. Additionally, students may need to travel for conferences and research. Without funding from a graduate student association or grant program, the student will have to cover these costs individually.

PhD students with children may have to account for childcare costs. Purchasing a new computer and other supplies may also be required. This type of budgeting will vary from individual to individual, program to program.

Most PhD programs allow students to progress at their own pace, requiring them to complete and defend their dissertation within a certain time period (e.g. six years). However, the time it takes to complete a dissertation depends on the student, area of study, research, etc. This can impact cost of attending a doctoral program.

Example Cost of Attendance

A student’s budget should include the total cost of attendance—that is both direct (tuition and fees) and indirect costs (e.g. housing). This budget is the starting point for determining the student’s financial need, how much financial aid they require, and if they can afford to attend a doctoral program. Below is a sample five-year total cost of attendance chart based on an in-state tuition program, with a budget that assumes fixed costs for fees and indirect costs, such as housing. It also does not take into account assistantships and tuition waivers for assistants.

Based on a figure that’s slightly below the 2012-2013 average graduate tuition cost, the total cost of attendance can still produce sticker shock. An average student in a program that charges $12,000 per year in tuition could have to pay between $30,000 and $45,000 year in total costs.

PhD FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS

Prospective PhD candidates have an abundance of financial aid options to help fund their graduate studies. Typically, students are fully funded by a combination of sources, including scholarships, fellowships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or student loans.

It is important for students to note that most sources of aid are awarded by individual academic programs, so they should follow-up with their department for up-to-date information.

Below is a high-level overview of the common types of graduate financial aid.

Prospective PhD candidates can turn to a variety of funding sources, including scholarships, grants, and fellowships to support their education financially. As discussed, most students use a combination of one or more of these funding sources to finance their degree program and research.

PhD students can apply for a variety of scholarships that award students with funds that can be used to help cover the cost of tuition, books and other fees.

Grants are similar to scholarships and are academic-based awards that can be used to augment other sources of financial aid.

Fellowships are a different type of funding that may encompass a scholarship or grant and can be used to fund research, study and teaching in the US and internationally. Many fellowships provide full tuition and a yearly stipend to students.

A PhD should never be an end in itself but rather a means to an end. The path to a PhD is an arduous one and should never be undertaken without serious thought to what it will bring the student. That said, there is money available for graduate study in most fields, and a student in the humanities should be very careful to apply to appropriate programs which fund their grad students.

• Engineering
• Physical Sciences

The SMART program is designed to support graduate students studying in STEM disciplines and offers a range of other benefits, including supplies and health insurance allowances and employment placement services with the DoD after graduation.

The National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship is a three-year graduate fellowship that is designed to support doctoral students across fifteen engineering disciplines.

This three-year fellowship program supports the research efforts of doctoral students in STEM-related fields of study and allows them to pursue their work at any accredited graduate program in the country.

Renewable award for graduate students enrolled in a full-time APA-accredited doctoral program of study in psychology. Underrepresented, minority students are encouraged to apply.

This fellowship is open to female scholars and is designed to help offset the doctoral student’s living expenses during her final year of working on a dissertation.

This fellowship is a single-year of funding that is designed to support the doctoral research of a student working in child psychology.

The Javits Fellowship is provided on a needs- and competitive-basis to graduate students pursing graduate degrees in the humanities, social sciences, and the arts.

Two fellowships are awarded to support doctoral students who plan to study at the American School of Classical Studies in Athens, Greece for a year.

The Richard M. Weaver Scholarship is open to graduate student members of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute and supports the academic work of scholars pursuing teaching careers at the college level.

The AICPA fellowship is designed for minority students pursuing or planning to pursue a doctorate in accounting.

Five scholarships are available to provide financial assistance to graduate students pursuing studies in accounting and plan on earning CPA licensure.

This fellowship provides financial support to female scholars conducting research and economic analysis into natural resource, food, or agricultural issues.

This renewable, four-year fellowship is designed to support a scholar’s work in the field of stewardship science: nuclear science, high density physics, and materials under extreme conditions and hydrodynamics.

This multi-year fellowship supports doctoral research in several fields, ranging from chemistry to geology, materials science to physics and connects fellows with NPSC employer partners.

The NWRI fellowship program is open to full-time doctoral students conducting water-based research in areas such as water quality, water treatment and technologies, water supplies and water resources.

Really think about your reasons for getting a PhD. Critically exam the support systems you have in place to get you through the journey: 50 percent of doctoral students suffer from depression. Utilize services like the counseling center on your college/university campuses to help you respond to the stressors that may occur with the transition.

ASSISTANTSHIPS, FELLOWSHIPS AND LOANS

Graduate assistantships.

Graduate assistantships are a form of academic appointment and are provided by individual departments. Competitive in nature, they are typically awarded on the basis of the student’s academic accomplishments and potential in the graduate program of study. Most programs provide appointments for one year at time and students receive a tuition credit or waiver and monthly stipend. There are three types of assistantships: Teaching Assistantships, Assistant Lecturers, and Research Assistants.

Teaching assistants perform a range of support duties for faculty members at a university, including grading papers and teaching classes.

Lecturers may serve as instructors in the academic department where they are studying.

Research assistants conduct and assist faculty members with research projects in the student’s area of interest.

Fellowships

Fellowships are short-term funding opportunities (typically 9- to 12 months) provided to students in the form of tuition credits and/or stipends. They support a student’s graduate study in their field of choice, may assist them in their research, or gain professional training in an area of interest. Fellowships are competitive and are available in two types: University-based and External.

Individual schools, colleges, and departments at a university (e.g. College of Science, Department of English) may have endowed fellowships. Students are either nominated for an award by their department or may be open to an application process.

External fellowships are funded by foundations, government agencies and other groups and provide opportunities to study both in the US and abroad. For example, the Department of Defense offers the National Defense Science & Engineering Graduate Fellowship to engineering students studying in one of sixteen engineering specialties.

Corporations

Many companies and businesses have created scholarship, fellowship, and tuition reimbursement programs for their employees. Depending on the company, there may be a possibility it supports the graduate school efforts of its employees. Speak to the Human Resources department to learn more about the potential funding avenues available.

Graduate students may borrow funds from the federal government under two loan programs: William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Perkins Loan Program.

Private financial institutions, including banks and credit unions, offer unsecured educational loans to graduate students. These loans must be repaid with interest. The interest rates, loan amount, and repayment terms are based on the credit worthiness of the borrower.

Federal work study provides students with demonstrated financial need part-time job opportunities that allow them to earn income while they are in graduate school. The program focuses on placing students in community service situations related to the student’s academic course of study. A majority of jobs are on-campus, but some schools may have some off-campus jobs with nonprofit agencies and other groups. It is important to note that some universities may not allow students to use their federal work study for tuition, but other related expenses (e.g. books, fees).

EXPERT SPOTLIGHT: Lawrence Burns, PhD

What should a future phd student consider when selecting a program of   study .

Speaking in the humanities, a student is best advised, I think, to select the faculty member with whom he or she wishes to study rather than simply a program. This faculty member becomes the student’s mentor, a relationship that lasts well beyond graduate school years. Because the mentor becomes the student’s primary reference, his or her standing in the field can and does have an impact on pre- and post-doctoral grants a student might win as well as on the student’s success on the academic job market.

It is a delicate balance though, because one must also look at programs that have standing in a particular field and at institutions that can afford to fund their PhD students throughout their graduate years.

Much is made about the saturation of PhD graduates and not enough   positions — both in academic and the private sector. Should that dissuade   a student from pursuing a PhD?

Yes, of course. Again, a PhD is not something that comes easily, and it should not be pursued without a reason for it. On the other hand, for students who are committed to their fields, and for whom that field is a career choice, the PhD is still the only way into the university job market. 

There is a catch-22 in the world of post-graduate education. Research universities need to turn out research, and researchers often depend on their grad students to assist them–in all fields–and departments on their PhD candidates to teach many undergraduate courses. PhD students are thus recruited regardless of the job market for the PhD holders.

The challenges in funding the PhD for me were less about how am I going to pay for this degree, but making the adjustment from being a full-time salaried employee to now, taking a significant pay cut to serve as a graduate assistant.

EARNING OUTLOOK FOR PHD STUDENTS

Potential career earnings should be a significant part of the discussion when considering whether or not to pursue a doctoral degree. Completing an advanced program of study could increase an individual’s earning potential with their current or future employers.

Research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals a direct correlation between educational attainment and career success—both in employment opportunities and annual salaries. Doctoral degree holders are some of the highest paid professionals in the country. The table below outlines the difference in earnings by degree level in 2014.

source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Earnings and Unemployment by Educational Attainment

• Industry or Business $97,700
• Government $82,000
• Nonprofit Organizations $72,500
• Other $70,000
• Academia $60,000

Source: National Science Foundation, Survey of Earned Doctorates

In turn, prospective students should consider how their sacrifice of time and money will pay off when they embark in their careers. Some professional fields have a higher return on investment than others. A majority of PhD candidates endeavor to become tenured-track faculty members, but they should realize that academia is one of the lowest paying sectors for individuals with a doctoral degree.

A review of National Science Foundation survey information shows that the best paying professional areas for PhD graduates include Industry and Business—with an average salary of $97,700. At the bottom of the list? Academia.

MOST LUCRATIVE PHD CAREERS

So, which PhD degrees pay the best?

According to the NSF, business, economics, and engineering are consistently among the best earning academic fields regardless of industry. The following tables outline the highest paying academic fields by professional area of work after graduation.

• Business Management and Administration $110,000
• Economics $82,000
• Engineering $79,000
• Health Sciences $70,000
• Education $60,000
• Business Management and Administration $135,000
• Economics $115,000
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $115,000
• Geosciences $110,000
• Engineering $98,000
• Economics $112,500
• Business Management and Administration $96,590
• Engineering $96,500
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $95,300
• Health Sciences $94,000
• Business Management and Administration $105,000
• Economics $100,000
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $100,000
• Health Sciences $98,000

At the occupational level, 2012 employment research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed the best paying doctoral career was Physicist ($109,600), followed by Astronomers ($105,410), and Engineering Professors ($94,130).

Overall, the top 10 most lucrative PhD careers include the following:

• 1 Physicists $109,600
• 2 Astronomers $105,410
• 3 Engineering Professors $94,130
• 4 Economics Professors $90,870
• 5 Health Specialties Professors: $90,210
• 6 Agricultural Sciences Professors $86,260
• 7 Biochemists and Biophysicists $84,940
• 8 Forestry and Conservation Science Professors $84,090
• 9 Physics Professors $80,720
• 10 Medical Scientists $79,930

EXPERT SPOTLIGHT: Darren Pierre, PhD

How has earning a phd impacted you personally and professionally.

Personally, the PhD was an incredibly introspective process. I believe for many, they go into the PhD thinking one thing, and come out transformed by the experience. I learned and grew personally in how I harness my self-worth, I grew professionally in my ability to humble myself and authentically listen to the feedback given about my work.

Professionally, I move with a greater level of confidence, I have more insight into my own potential in ways I could have never imagined, and all of that propelled me to write my book, The Invitation to Love.

Through your own experience, what are the biggest mistakes   prospective PhD students make when choosing and/or funding their PhD?

The biggest mistake that perspective students make is doing the degree for the wrong reason. If you are doing the degree for any other reason that self-motivated factors, you will falter. Doing the PhD to cover areas of insecurity, or low self-worth; doing the PhD for the prestige or title sake, those reasons will have you floundering and faltering when the psychological stressors being to weigh heavy.

Did you create a roadmap--financially or academically--to stay on track to   completing your PhD?

Absolutely, you have to have a plan and work that plan. Each Sunday, I would develop the week's action plan, I would carve out everything from when I was doing assignments/research to when I would work out, everything was on a schedule so that even when the fog of the process set in, I had headlights (my schedule) that allowed me to drive consistently when the road ahead was hard to see.

PHD: BY THE NUMBERS

Doctoral education in the U.S. is a varied and broad system, one that has been growing in popularity. In the 2013-2014 academic year, more than 178,000 doctoral degrees were conferred to students nationally, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

• Doctoral Education Continues to Grow
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Dominate
• STEM Fields are the Most Popular
• Only Half of Students Earn a PhD in the Same Academic Field as their Master’s Degree
• Doctoral Degrees are an Investment in Time
• Primary Source of Funding Varies by Program

In its survey of earned doctorates, the National Science Foundation learned the number of doctoral recipients increased by nearly 30 percent between 2003 and 2013.

The most popular academic areas of study were Engineering and the Physical Sciences.

• Engineering 69.80%
• Physical Sciences 59.30%
• Health Sciences 53.60%
• Life Sciences 44.60%
• Other 38.90%
• Social Sciences 19.90%
• Humanities 9.10%
• Education -25.70%

Within the engineering and physical sciences disciplines, multiple sub-fields have been experiencing explosive interest and enrollments, with some programs (e.g. physics, materials science engineering) growing by more than 70 percent between 2003 and 2013.

• Other engineering 127.5%
• Materials science engineering 86.5%
• Aerospace, aeronautical, and astronautical engineering 74.5%
• Mechanical engineering 70.5%
• Electrical, electronics, and communication engineering 53.6%
• Chemical engineering 46.0%
• Computer and information sciences 119.1%
• Mathematics 83.0%
• Physics and astronomy 76.7%
• Geosciences 28.8%
• Chemistry 22.0%

According to NSF, the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields are the most popular doctoral areas of study.

• Life Sciences 23.3%
• Physical Sciences 17.6%
• Engineering 17.0%
• Social Sciences 15.9%
• Humanities 10.7%
• Education 9.4%

Interestingly, slightly more than 56 percent of graduate students continue into a doctoral program in the same field as their master’s degree. Rates are highest in the humanities, engineering, and social sciences fields.

• Humanities 67.6%
• Engineering 65.7%
• Social Sciences 65.6%
• Education 61.5%
• All Fields 56.1%
• Physical Sciences 53.4%
• Life Sciences 35.5%

It requires approximately 7.5 years of study for the average graduate student to complete a doctoral degree after enrolling in graduate school. Education takes the longest — more than 11 years, while the physical sciences and engineering fields only require 6.5 to 6.6 years of study to complete.

• Education 11.7
• Humanities 9.2
• Social Sciences 7.7
• All Fields 7.5
• Life Sciences 6.9
• Engineering 6.6
• Physical Sciences 6.5

According to the NSF, the most common source of funding for doctoral students are teaching and research assistantships. The table below details the primary source of funding for students by academic area of study.

• Life Sciences Fellowships/ Grants
• Physical Sciences Research Assistantships
• Social Sciences Teaching Assistantships
• Engineering Research Assistantships
• Education Own Resources
• Humanities Teaching Assistantships
• All Fields Research Assistantships

The following table includes a breakout of the primary funding source by major field of study, according the National Science Foundation.

Source: http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/sed/2013/data-tables.cfm

ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES

The ultimate financial goal of any PhD student should be to complete their program successfully and move into a professional career with as little debt as possible. The resources below are available to help students locate scholarships and other funding sources that can help make that goal a reality.

Unigo offers a selection of financial assistance resources for graduate students, including a scholarship directory, a scholarship match tool, educational information on student loans and funding options, and more.

Scholarships.com is a website that provides a selection of financial aid information, including a searchable scholarship directory, insights into funding trends, financial aid calculators, and information about grants and fellowships.

Peterson’s is an educational resource site that includes a searchable scholarship database, articles and advice columns, and a catalog of graduate school profiles.

FinAid.org is an educational resource site that focuses on financial aid and offers information about student loans, federal financial aid, financing a doctoral education, and includes a scholarship search option.

An office of the U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid is the country’s largest provider of financial aid. Graduate students can learn about and pally for loans, grants, and work-study funds to pay for their doctoral education.

FastWeb is a financial aid-focused website that offers a searchable scholarship directory that allows students to focus their search to their major area of study, work experience, and personal and professional activities.

Chegg is an online educational portal that not only offers used textbooks, but a scholarship database as well.

We have 285 free tuition online PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

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free tuition online PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

Essec business school, funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

France PhD Programme

A French PhD usually takes 3-4 years and often involves additional training and courses alongside research towards an original thesis. This will be assessed by external examiners before being presented at a public examination and eventually awarded with one of three grades. Some programmes are delivered in English.

ZENITH PhD project: Elastic tailoring of composite winglet-wing systems for enhanced performance

Phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Custom Exercise Interventions for Musculoskeletal Health

Funded phd project (uk students only).

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Investigating the self-organizing properties of cardiac cells in vivo

Competition funded phd project (students worldwide).

This project is in competition for funding with other projects. Usually the project which receives the best applicant will be successful. Unsuccessful projects may still go ahead as self-funded opportunities. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but potential funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Bioelectric signalling in cardiac valve development

Develop high-accuracy prediction models with small datasets and uncertainty of one-sided information in the free-market system phd, self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

5 fully funded Ph.D. positions in “Cognitive, Computational and Social Neurosciences” at the IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca

Phd research programme.

PhD Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

Silicon Photonics for Space Optics Technologies

Phd studentship to study the role of kidney-resident nk cells in the control of human cytomegalovirus & bk virus infections, synergistic effect of herring roe derived omega-3 phospholipid and protein supplementation on muscle function and health., integrated microneedle electrode microfluidic devices for the simultaneous extraction and detection of inflammatory biomarkers, funded phd project (european/uk students only).

This project has funding attached for UK and EU students, though the amount may depend on your nationality. Non-EU students may still be able to apply for the project provided they can find separate funding. You should check the project and department details for more information.

A UNIFYING FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING ROOT FORM AND FUNCTION

Condition monitoring and non-destructive testing of dynamic cable for offshore renewable energy industry, funded phd studentship: linguistic integration in quebec, 8 fully-funded ph.d. positions in "economics, analytics and decision sciences (eads)" at the imt school for advanced studies lucca.

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Filtering Results

• Best Online Ph.D. In Business Administration Programs

Best Online Ph.D. In Business Administration Programs Of 2024

Updated: Mar 21, 2024, 1:55pm

If you want to create and advance cutting-edge theories in the business world, a Ph.D. in business administration might be the right fit for you. And for maximum flexibility and minimal interruption to your life, you can earn your Ph.D. in business administration online.

This terminal doctoral degree typically requires between three and five years to complete and provides expert-level knowledge in both business and research. Graduates often go on to work as business researchers and academics.

We’ve researched the best online colleges in the U.S. and found four schools that meet our ranking criteria and deliver online Ph.D.s in business administration. Read on to learn more about each program and about how to finance your education.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked four accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online business administration Ph.D. programs in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

We listed all four schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Ph.D. in Business Administration Options

Should you enroll in a ph.d. in business administration online, accreditation for online ph.d.s in business administration, how to find the right online ph.d. in business administration for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online ph.d. in business administration programs, university of north carolina at greensboro, hampton university, national university, liberty university.

Graduate Tuition

$532/credit (in-state)

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Based out of the Piedmont Triad city of Greensboro, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro features an online Ph.D. in business administration that takes five years to complete. Distance learners can remain in their current jobs and locations throughout the program.

Students spend the first three and a half years of the program on coursework and the final 18 months on their dissertations. The 54-credit curriculum covers academic research and publishing, organizational theory and behavior, and management.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $65
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Doctoral research methods, seminar in academic writing and publishing
• Concentrations Available: Strategy, international business, organizational behavior
• In-Person Requirements: No

$695/credit

Located in Hampton, Virginia, Hampton University is an HBCU that offers several online-friendly programs, including a hybrid Ph.D. in business administration. The program requires 61 credits and usually takes around three and a half years to complete. The curriculum includes a dissertation requirement, and students must complete two four-week summer residencies during their first and second years in the program.

The university prefers applicants who already hold master’s degrees in business. Prospective students must also submit GMAT scores.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on a set schedule
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 61 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Managerial economics, empirical research methods
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for online coursework and in-person residencies

$442/credit

Based out of San Diego, California, National University focuses primarily on distance learning and features an online Ph.D. in business administration that students can complete in 40 months. The 60-credit curriculum includes 10 specialization options, including project management, organizational leadership, strategic marketing and global business management.

No matter their specialization, all students must complete an original dissertation before they can graduate. NU offers a new start date for the program each Monday.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: The business environment, business financial systems
• Concentrations Available: Project management; organizational leadership; industrial/organizational psychology; homeland security: leadership and policy; health services; financial management; advanced accounting; global business management; information technology; strategic marketing

$595/credit

Based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University enrolls more than 135,000 students worldwide thanks in large part to its online programs. Liberty’s online Ph.D. in business administration requires 60 credits and delivers all coursework asynchronously for maximum flexibility. Students can choose from four specialization options: entrepreneurship, leadership, executive coaching, and supply chain and logistics.

Students can complete this program without ever visiting campus in Lynchburg. Military students and their spouses receive a significant tuition discount.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Foundations of applied research methods, strategic allocation of financial resources
• Concentrations Available: Entrepreneurship; executive coaching; leadership; supply chain and logistics

An online Ph.D. in business administration is the right fit for a specific type of learner. To determine whether you should pursue a doctoral degree in business administration , ask yourself a few key questions:

• What’s your budget? Distance learners generally save on expenses related to on-campus housing and transportation. Moreover, some public universities allow out-of-state students who exclusively enroll in online programs to pay in-state or otherwise discounted tuition rates. If you’re looking to save money, online learning could help.
• How much flexibility do you need? Flexibility is among the best features of distance learning. If you’re a parent or plan to work full time, you might seek an asynchronous online program, which won’t include scheduled class times.
• How do you best learn? Online learning requires a great deal of organization, discipline and time management skills. If you crave more structure or prefer closer interaction with peers and faculty, on-campus or hybrid learning might offer a better fit.

There are two key types of college accreditation : institutional and programmatic.

Institutional accreditation is the more essential of the two. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the U.S. Department of Education oversee the agencies that handle institutional accreditation, which involves vetting the quality of each school’s faculty, student services and finances.

You should enroll only at institutionally accredited schools. Otherwise, you will be ineligible for federal student aid, and employers may not recognize your degree.

Programmatic accreditation provides quality assurance for specific degree programs and departments. For an online business administration degree , you should keep an eye out for programmatic accreditation from one of three organizations:

• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
• The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
• The International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)

Once you’re sure about pursuing an online Ph.D. in business administration, here’s what to do next.

Consider Your Future Goals

A Ph.D. in business administration suits students who want to eventually become professors or pursue other academic or research-related roles in business. A Ph.D. in business is more theory-focused than a Doctor of Business Administration , which is comparatively practice-focused and includes an applied research component.

Most academic jobs in business do not require licensure or certification. However, you may need a demonstrated history of academic writing and publishing. A Ph.D. program with a dissertation can help you satisfy those criteria.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Per-credit tuition rates for the four programs in our guide range from $442 to $695. Over the course of a typical 60-credit Ph.D. program, this translates to approximately $26,000 to $42,00 in total tuition.

Make sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to see if you qualify for any federal grant, loan or scholarship opportunities. You can also pursue aid through third parties such as nonprofit organizations or your prospective university.

Doctoral programs often offer graduate assistantships to help offset the cost of tuition. Some Ph.D. programs even provide students with stipends or housing allowances in exchange for them teaching undergraduate courses or assisting professors with research. However, these opportunities are often reserved for on-campus students.

What is a Ph.D. in business administration?

A Ph.D. in business administration is a terminal academic degree for students who want to become business professors or work in other academic or research-focused roles in the field.

How many years is a Ph.D. in business administration?

The best online Ph.D. programs in business administration require between three and a half and five years to complete.

Is a doctorate in business administration worth it?

It depends on your goals. If you want to advance academic scholarship and research in business or work as a professor, a doctoral business administration degree can help you reach your goals.

Which is better, a Ph.D. or a D.B.A.?

It depends on your goals. A D.B.A. focuses more on applied research, while a Ph.D. advances theory in the field.

Mikeie Reiland is a writer who has written features for Oxford American, Bitter Southerner, Gravy, and SB Nation, among other publications. He received a James Beard nomination for a feature he wrote in 2023.

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Doctor of Education Leadership

Additional Information

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America needs transformative leaders in preK–12 education whose passion for education quality and equity is matched by a knowledge of learning and development, the organizational management skills to translate visionary ideas into practical success, and a firm grasp of the role of context and politics in shaping leadership. Graduates of the three-year, multidisciplinary Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) Program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education will be prepared to become those leaders.

The Ed.L.D Program — taught by faculty from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Harvard Business School, and the Harvard Kennedy School — will train you for system-level leadership positions in school systems, state and federal departments of education, and national nonprofit organizations. Ed.L.D. is a full-time, three-year program built on a cohort learning model. Cohorts consist of up to 25 students from diverse professional backgrounds (including district/charter management leaders, nonprofit directors, principals, teachers, and policy researchers) who progress through the program together.

All Ed.L.D. students receive a full tuition funding package plus stipends, work opportunities, and a paid third-year residency at a partner organization.

The Ed.L.D. Program prepares graduates to do work for the public good in the American public education sector, whether that be at the system or state level. Specifically, the program is designed to accelerate the progress graduates make toward achieving meaningful impact in influential roles and/or crossing boundaries in the following spaces in the public education sector:

• PreK–12 district or CMO leadership roles : superintendent of schools, chief academic officer, and/or deputy superintendent
• Foundation/philanthropy roles:  director, president and CEO, senior fellow
• Education nonprofit roles : president or executive director of backbone or collective impact organizations which support preK–12 schools. Ed.L.D. graduates will lead education nonprofits that explicitly focus on improving outcomes and opportunities for children, families, and communities.
• State or federal education leadership roles : commissioner or deputy commissioner roles. Could also include public education advocacy or education policy advisers to senior government officials.
• Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation roles:  Founder, CEO, president

Curriculum Information

The Ed.L.D. curriculum is a balance of multidisciplinary coursework and practice-based learning. Core courses and electives are taught by recognized leaders from across Harvard’s graduate programs in fields like data-based education reform, organizational change and innovation, and effective leadership strategies for urban schools. You will develop and test your leadership skills through team projects and an immersive third-year residency.

All students in the cohort take the same classes in four foundational content areas: learning and teaching, leadership and organizational change, politics and policy, adult development, and leadership inside and out (including one-on-one executive coaching). Courses taken during the first-year focus on practice-based learning and serve as the framework of your first-year experience.

Sample HGSE Courses

• Leading Change
• How People Learn
• Ed.L.D. Proseminar
• Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Learning
• Race, Equity, and Leadership
• Practicing Leadership Inside and Out
• Sector Change
• The Workplace Lab for System-Level Leaders

View  all courses  in the Academic Catalog.

Each cohort member works with program advisers to choose an individualized sequence of electives from any of the Harvard graduate schools. You will work closely with the program faculty and staff during your second year to determine the best match with a partner organization for your third-year residency. Matches are driven by mutual interest between the resident and the partner organization, and each student's career and learning goals and geographic preferences.

• Second Year Practicing Leadership Inside and Out
• Driving Change 
• Education Sector Nonprofits
• Negotiation Workshop
• Coaching with Equity in Mind
• Ethnic Studies and Education
• Deeper Learning for All:  Designing a 21st Century School System
• Institutional Change in School Organizations, Systems, and Sectors

You will take part in a 10-month paid residency at one of our partner organizations. There, you will work on a strategic project which synthesizes your experience and learning into a written Capstone project. You will stay connected to your Ed.L.D. cohort and HGSE through technology and by returning to Harvard periodically for intensive workshops.

Paid Residency 

Our partner organizations include school systems and departments of education, as well as some of the nation's most influential and dynamic nonprofit, mission-based for-profit, and philanthropic organizations.

You will be intentionally pushed out of your comfort zones and asked to work systemically and make a significant contribution to the partner organization. In addition, the residency will provide you with the professional mentoring, practical experiences, and network of connections they need to position themselves as future leaders in the education sector. 

Strategic Project 

You will define (with supervisors from your partner organization) a strategic project on which to focus. You will have the opportunity to lead one or two major efforts on behalf of the organization, such as the creation or implementation of current initiatives. The project allows you to practice and improve leadership skills, add important value to the mission and strategy of the partner organization, work systemically, and hold high-level accountability.

During the residency period, you will produce a written Capstone. The Capstone is a descriptive, analytic, and reflective account of your third-year leadership contributions to a strategic project within an Ed.L.D. partner organization. It is a demonstration of your ability to engage others, develop strategy to successfully address and diagnose challenges, work toward a vision and goals, and learn from the results.

Sample Topics

• Accountability, Coherence, and Improvement: Leadership Reflection and Growth in the Los Angeles Unified School District
• Leadership Development for Entrepreneurial Education Leaders Working to Build Public & Private Sector Support
• Disrupting Teacher Preparation: Lessons in Collaboration and Innovation Across the Learning to Teach Community of Practice
• Pursuing Educational Equality for English Language Learners

Sample Summaries 

• Breaking Down Silos in a School District: Findings from an Ed.L.D. Project in Montgomery County
• Expanding Students' Access to Meaningful STEM Learning Opportunities Through Strategic Community Partnerships
• Developing a New Teacher Leadership and Compensation System in Iowa: A Consensus-Based Process
• Finding Great Teachers for Blended-Learning Schools

GSE Theses and Dissertations from Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH)

Program Faculty

Ed.L.D. students learn with renowned faculty from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard Business School, and Harvard Kennedy School. Faculty from the three schools share their individual expertise in the Ed.L.D. Program and work collaboratively to provide a challenging and coherent experience for students. Faculty who teach in the Ed.L.D. core curriculum and advise Ed.L.D. students include:

Faculty Director

Frank D. Barnes

Frank Barnes is faculty director of the Doctor of Education Leadership Program. He has over 30 years experience as an educator, researcher, and organizer. As a chief accountability officer, he led turnaround efforts for large public school districts, including Boston Public Schools and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

Kathryn Parker Boudett

Ebony N. Bridwell-Mitchell

Jennifer Perry Cheatham

Elizabeth City

Candice Crawford-Zakian

Marshall Ganz

Adria D. Goodson

Deborah helsing.

Monica C. Higgins

Deborah Jewell-Sherman

Lisa Laskow Lahey

Mary Grassa O'Neill

Irvin Leon Scott

Catherine Snow

Michael L. Tushman

Martin west.

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 Education Leadership experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Do We Need Happiness Teachers?

After a trip to meet with the Dalai Lama, an Ed.L.D. student says we do

Combatting Chronic Absenteeism with Family Engagement 

As post-COVID absenteeism rates continue unabated, a look at how strong family-school engagement can help

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Master of Science

Online Human Resource Management Degree

Earn your master's degree in human resource management and make a difference.

This human resource management master’s degree is designed to help professionals working in human resources enhance critical leadership skills and earn the credentials they need to take their career to a higher level. If you're a current or aspiring HR leader, earning your master’s degree at WGU is a great next step in your own professional development. 

To be successful in the HR field, there are certain skills that are extremely valuable. You will learn many of these skills in your human resource management program, including: 

• Talent management
• HR technology
• Policy and procedure strategy
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion in growing organizations
• Global HR practices

The online master's program in HR management from WGU helps equip you with the skills and credentials you need to be successful. And your master’s degree isn’t the only credential you will earn—this degree program contains a WGU certificate in HR Technology and Analytics for Decision Making, as well as the opportunity to earn the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture specialty credential as part of your capstone experience, helping you boost your resume before you even graduate!

61% of graduates finish within 

WGU lets you move more quickly through material you already know and advance as soon as you're ready. The result: You may finish faster.

*WGU Internal Data

Tuition per six-month term is

Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps students control the ultimate cost of their HR degree. Finish faster, pay less!

Average salary increase

School of Business graduates report an average salary increase of $11,813 after completing their WGU degree.

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Start Dates the 1st of Every Month

M.S. HR Management Courses

Program consists of 10 courses

At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.  What you learn in this program will often be directly applicable the next day at work—and what you’re doing at work will frequently inform the work you’re doing in your courses. It’s all about real-world applicability so every moment spent studying is time well spent.

This online program is composed of the following courses. Some may be waived through transfer from your previous college experience or if you are SHRM-CP/SCP or HRCI PHR/SPHR/GPHR certified. The rest you will typically complete one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized Degree Plan. You’ll work through each course as quickly as you can study and learn the material. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on. This means you can finish as many courses as you're able in a term at no additional cost.

The M.S. in Human Resource Management is 100% online and SHRM- and HRCI-content aligned. It’s compact—10 courses—to help you quickly get the expertise you need to build your career. You’ll also be prepared to earn your SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture credential at no additional cost—it’s included in your tuition.

You’ll take courses boosting your expertise in management, communication, employment law, and more. Along the way, you’ll also earn a WGU certificate in HR Technology and Analytics for Decision Making.

This course covers principles of effective management and leadership that maximize organizational performance. The following topics are included: the role and functions of a manager, analysis of personal leadership styles, approaches to self-awareness and self-assessment, and application of foundational leadership and management skills.

This course focuses on strategies and tools that managers use to maximize employee contribution and create organizational excellence. You will learn talent management strategies to motivate and develop employees as well as best practices to manage performance for added value.

This course prepares students for the communication challenges in organizations. Topics examined include theories and strategies of communication, persuasion, conflict management, and ethics that enhance communication to various audiences.

The Business Acumen course introduces you to the operation of the business enterprise and the role of management in directing the activities of the business. You will examine the roles of management in the context of business functions such as marketing, operations, accounting, and finance.

This course presents critical problem-solving methodologies, including field research and data collection methods that enhance organizational performance. Topics include quantitative analysis, statistical and quality tools. You will improve your ability to use data to make informed decisions.

Inclusive Workplace Culture Capstone provides students with the opportunity to work through the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture specialty credential course content, studying and analyzing how human resource (HR) professionals can integrate an inclusive approach to all HR functions such as talent acquisition, training and development, total rewards, and more. Students will complete a capstone project that synthesizes an inclusive approach to strategic HR practices for an organization to create an environment of true belonging for all employees, while simultaneously being prepared to complete the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture exam independently to earn a specialty credential and badge from SHRM.

HR Technology and People Analytics introduces students to the types of human resource information systems (HRISs), applications, and platforms used to capture and manage employee data and the analytics used to make strategic decisions based on that data. Students will discover how to plan for the implementation of new human resource (HR) technology, present the plan to stakeholders to gain buy-in and support for the change, and train employees in the new systems. Students will also gain an understanding of how to pull and use data and people analytics for effective storytelling, decision-making, and leadership influence.

Future Focused Total Rewards examines discretionary and legally required approaches to compensation and benefits practices that compose an organization’s total rewards system. Students explore how to develop and communicate the components of a competitive total rewards strategy to prospective and existing employees while adhering to employment laws and aligning to an organization’s strategic goals and culture.

Talent Acquisition and Development provides an in-depth look at the strategies used to attract, retain, and develop qualified talent in an organization. Students discover how to hire the right talent to meet the needs of the organization, how to orient and onboard new employees, and how to ensure employee excellence through learning and development and performance management strategies.

HR Compliance and Employee Relations provides students with an in-depth understanding of the relevant laws, regulations, and ethical issues related to human resource (HR) compliance and risk management. It also explores how to resolve and improve employee relations issues to maintain a positive organizational culture in a diverse workplace. Topics include business laws and ethical considerations, employment and labor laws and regulations, and employee relations strategies to build and maintain a positive, healthy, and respectful work environment.

Capstone Project

Special requirements for this program

At the end of your program, you’ll complete a capstone course that includes the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture content. After completing the course, you’ll be ready to sit for the SHRM exam and earn your credential/badge at no additional cost.

Skills For Your Résumé

As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for. 

• Performance Management: Designed and implemented a structured process for the periodic evaluation of employee performance, enhancing accountability and productivity.
• Communications: Effectively communicated HR programs, practices, and policies to both HR and non-HR employees.
• Management: Analyzed operations to evaluate performance and identify potential improvements.
• Planning:  Assessed plans for efficiency and effectiveness in achieving specific goals, optimizing strategic initiatives for successful implementation.
• Talent Acquisition:  Developed effective strategies for sourcing, recruiting, and evaluating qualified job candidates, enhancing the quality of talent acquisition processes.
• Human Resource Information System (HRIS):  Managed all employee information through the HRIS, ensuring accurate and organized data management for efficient HR operations.

“In addition to advancing my career, having my education has been a huge asset for my kids. WGU has absolutely changed my life, and, more importantly, has changed the lives of my kids as well.”

—Misty Dieffenbach B.S. Human Resource Management

WGU vs. Traditional Universities Compare the Difference

Traditional Universities

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

Flat rate per 6-month term

Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors

Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one

Scheduled time

Whenever you feel ready

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

TIME TO FINISH

Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options

As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in 1 year

Earning Potential

An online human resources degree can dramatically impact your earning potential. Two years after graduation, WGU students report earning $22,200* more per year on average.

On Your Schedule

Competency-based education means you can move as quickly through your degree as you can master the material. You don't have to log in to classes at a certain time—you are truly in the driver's seat of your education

Entirely Online

The human resource master's degree at WGU is 100% online, which means it works wherever you are. You can do your coursework at night after working at your full-time job, on weekends, while you're traveling the world or on vacation—it's entirely up to you.

Accredited, Respected, Recognized™

WGU’s online HR degree program has been recognized by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) as fully aligned with their  HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates,  preparing students for the  SHRM-CP exam .  WGU has its own online,  SHRM virtual student chapter  that all school of business students at WGU are welcome to join. This SHRM virtual student chapter will help students continue learning and networking within the HR profession. WGU has also aligned its curriculum to the body of knowledge created by HR Certification Institute and prepares students for the  PHR exam .

COST & TIME

An Online HR Management Degree That's Affordable

By charging per term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees.

An HR Management Degree Within Reach

There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:

The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.

Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits. 

Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.

* WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022).

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

What Makes Us Different: An HR Management Degree Designed to Fit Today’s Busy Lifestyles

WGU was built for the busy student . Study whenever and wherever works best for you while managing your existing job and family responsibilities. Your effort, not class time, determines the pace of your progress.  No interrupting your work or family obligations. No rigid class schedules. No barriers to earning your degree on your own terms.  Just a solid, career-focused education that dovetails seamlessly with your current lifestyle. 

This online M.S. in Human Resource Management degree program is designed for working professionals, so you don't have to quit your job or leave your other responsibilities behind to get an online HR degree. You don't have to log in to classes, your assignments don't have due dates—you're in charge of your education.

“My degree from WGU helped me advance from an entry-level position. WGU has a spokesperson in every alumnus—their job knowledge gained from their coursework speaks for itself.”

—Megan Elizabeth Darveau, Human Resource Generalist, Phoenix Healthcare Management Services

CAREER OUTLOOK

Strengthen Your Strategic Business Skills with a Degree in HR Management

Organizations largely succeed or fail based on the employees they hire and their engagement —talented, happy employees deliver much better outcomes. That is why hiring skilled, qualified HR managers and professionals is essential for every organization. HR professionals help find the r ight employees, train them, and ensure they have a positive experience.

With your master’s degree in human resources management, you will gain the critical skills and credentials that will help you stand out from the competition in an exciting and lucrative field. Some of the critical skills you will develop focus on include workforce planning, training, development, benefits, compensation, and more. Get started on your educational journey with a master's degree today!

Return on Your Investment

On average, wgu graduates see an increase in income post-graduation.

Average income increase from all degrees in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary. Source:  2023 Harris Poll Survey  of 1,655 WGU graduates.

Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.

Human resource management professions are expected to grow by 7% by the year 2031, which is faster than the national average for job growth.

—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

An Online Human Resource Degree That Helps You Focus on Helping Others

Relevant hr skills.

• Talent Acquisition
• HR Management
• Employee Relations
• Training and Development
• Performance Management
• Organizational Leadership
• Strategic Planning
• Total Rewards Management
• Change Management

Employment Opportunities

• Recruitment Manager
• DE&I Manager
• Learning and Development Manager
• Director of HR
• VP of People and Culture
• Employment Law Specialist
• Talent Acquisition Manager

WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers

Admissions requirements—hr management.

To be considered for this M.S. Human Resource Management program, students must:

• Submit a transcript verifying receipt of your bachelor’s degree from a recognized, accredited institution.

NOTE: You do not need to take the GRE or GMAT to be admitted to this program.  Learn why we don't require these tests.

Transfer Credits

Get Your Enrollment Checklist

Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.

Get Your Questions Answered

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Additional Credentials

The Human Resource Management Master's degree program allows students to earn valuable credentials on their path to a degree, including the WGU HR Technology and Analytics for Decision Making Certificate, and the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture credential. These credentials allow you to demonstrate mastery and add impact to your résumé before you even graduate with your degree. Additionally this program is SHRM and HRCI aligned, preparing you for the SHRM CP and HRCI PHR if you have not already earned those credentials.

Commonly Asked Questions About the HR Management Degree

What subjects are studied in a master’s in human resource management.

In a Human Resource Management master's degree program you'll study a variety of subjects, including:

• Managing and leading people
• HR compliance and employee relations
• Data-driven decision making
• Management communication
• Talent acquisition and development
• Inclusive workplace culture

Is a master’s in human resource management worth it?

Earning your master’s in HR management equips you with the in-demand skills and expertise you need to be a leader in your organization and in your field. It opens up new career opportunities and higher salaries. This makes pursuing this degree an ideal choice for those who are ready to boost their career. 

What can you do with a master’s in human resource management?

You’ll be prepared for a variety of roles in Human Resources, DEI, and Organizational Culture, such as:

• HR Business Partner
• HR Manager, Director of HR
• Total Rewards Specialist
• Chief HR Officer
• DEI Manager
• HR Compliance Specialist

How much can I make with a master’s in human resource management? 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022, the national median salary for a human resource manager was $130,000. Salaries ranged from $76,600 to $224,360.

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Students and graduates

Life as a microsoft intern, get inside the microsoft intern experience.

Every year, thousands of university students from every corner of the world join Microsoft. You bring your aspirations, talent, potential—and excitement for the journey ahead. Our internship experience brings interns from around the world together to connect, collaborate and co-create virtually to make a difference and impact the world.

A hybrid approach to internships

Starting a new career journey is a momentous occasion. As you plan to take an initial step on your new path, Microsoft internships provide a hybrid approach to enable a high-quality experience both virtually and in person. Hybrid by design is weaved into each of our locations, keeping the health and safety of our employees, interns, and their families as our highest priority.    

Whether joining us virtually or in person, all our interns are empowered to co-create their experience, build community, and explore their passions while working on projects that matter. 

Global student programs and internships

University internships

At Microsoft, our interns work on projects that matter – and your team will rely on your skills and insights to help deliver those projects to market. This is your chance to bring your solutions and ideas to life while working on cutting-edge technology. We offer internships in all job families and solution areas, and it’s open to current students in Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA, PhD programs.

PhD internships

If you're pursuing a PhD and want to explore what it's like to work at Microsoft, look no further. We host PhD interns in both our product teams and in Microsoft Research (MSR). Our PhD interns are active, contributing members to our product and research community regardless if you are conducting cutting-edge research or engineering a new product. No matter what route you take—come work on meaningful, innovative projects that add to our company's success.

Microsoft Aspire Experience

We believe that Microsoft is a place for exploration, creativity, innovation, and professional growth. Microsoft Aspire Experience is an onboarding experience, designed to equip, develop, and empower those who join Microsoft after graduating from undergraduate school and MBA programs.

Global programs

• Imagine Cup
• Student ambassadors program
• HR rotational program
• Finance rotation program
• Cloud Supply Chain rotation

Register for the Imagine Cup. Make an impact through coding, collaboration, and competition. Innovate with passion to tackle global issues and bring your tech solutions to live in the Imagine Cup.

We are looking for student leaders with a passion for making a difference and sharing technology with their peers.

Our HR rotation program is a 3- year program that fosters learning and growth in the HR profession, and help you jumpstart your career.

Our Microsoft Finance Rotation Program (FRP) is a two-year program comprised of four, 6-month rotations, split across core finance functions. Kick starts your career in finance with a rotation in corporate functions, production/engineering finance, sales finance and more.

SCORE is a three-year career experience designed to provide emerging talent with an unparalleled journey through end-to-end cloud supply chain operations. Over three one-year rotations, participants will partner with and learn from our teams while building skills and supply chain acumen to accelerate their career growth.

U.S. regional internships and programs

Discovery program internship

The Discovery Program is a unique opportunity for students who are passionate about technology and want to make a positive impact on the world and society. This four-week internship is open to rising first-year students college students, based in Redmond, Washington or Atlanta, Georgia. Participants will work on a real project, learn from Microsoft employees and mentors, and explore different career paths in tech. Applications will be open in March 2024.

Explore Microsoft internship

Created for first- and second-year college students, Explore Microsoft is a 12-week summer internship that lets you try out different software engineering roles.

India regional internships and programs

• Academic partnership grant
• Cybersecurity
• MBA B-school PM Engage
• MBA B-school MCAPS

Microsoft Academic Partnership Grant is intended at fostering academia and industry collaborations and result in breakthrough innovations in search, cloud computing, and data-driven content creation.

More info to come when submissions for next year open.

A program to nurture cybersecurity enthusiasts via a specially curated learning journey.

Through this initiative, MBA students across B-schools in India interested in program management get a chance to be mentored by Microsoft and be a part of AMA sessions, webinars, and leader talks delivered by Microsoft employees.

Microsoft invites students enrolled in 2-year MBA program and currently in their 1st year MBA to apply for internship opportunities. During the 8-10 weeks internship, you'll work on projects that matter – and your team will rely on your skills and insights to help deliver those projects to the market. You’ll get the opportunity to work on real projects and have fun along the way. This is your chance to show off your skills and work on cutting edge technology.

More info to come when applications for next year open.

Resources to help you on your journey to Microsoft

Learn tech skills through top universities.

Explore modules and learning paths from universities like Carnegie Mellon University, University of Oxford, and UC Berkeley to prepare you for a career in cloud.

Diverse perspectives fuel innovation

Join a community that encourages everyone to bring their full and best selves to work each day.

Microsoft culture in action

Our culture leads us to find ways to help people do ordinary and sometimes extraordinary things.

Perks and benefits

Empowering our employees to be through more than the work they do each day. At Microsoft, we work to ensure essential benefits are available globally.  

Stories worth telling

From Monterrey to Microsoft

Diego Garza wrapped up his second internship last summer.  See why he says he feels empowered and can’t wait to come back. 

A rising tech star

A college student attends an event that leads to her dream job. 

What the Explore Microsoft program is all about

Hear from alums of the Explore Microsoft program, and how it helped shape their careers. 

It all started with a Windows internship

A year after graduating, Nikhil Gaekwad went from former intern to Program Manager at Microsoft.