Earning a Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) is a major achievement. It takes most Ph.D. students at least 5 years to successfully complete a program. However, the sacrifice is well worth it since those with a Ph.D. usually earn more money a year than workers with bachelor’s degrees. In fact, it has been estimated that those with a Ph.D. earn about $40,000 more annually than their colleagues with bachelor’s degrees.
Doctoral students are required to select a specialty to study. It takes about 2 years, or 4 semesters, to complete courses in their specialized field. After this is done, students are required to pass a test, which is used to determine whether they are ready to move on to the research phase of their Ph.D. program.
In addition to their coursework, Ph.D. students are required to conduct original research and report their conclusions in a multi-page dissertation. Ph.D. students are also required to defend their conclusions in front of a panel composed of professors. Once this is successfully completed, a student is awarded a Ph.D.
Popular Fields for Doctoral Study
Earning a Ph.D. through an online program will require the same time commitment and effort it takes to complete a traditional campus-program. All Ph.D. students are required to conduct original research and write a thesis or complete a residency lasting a year.
The following are popular Ph.D. programs that can be completed online:
- Psychology (Ph.D., PsyD)
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and Ph.D. programs in psychology can be completed online. Those earning PsyDs usually enter clinical practice, while graduates of Ph.D. programs in psychology often work at universities as researchers and professors. Students enrolled in these programs can opt to specialize in organizational, educational, counseling, or clinical psychology. - Education (Ph.D., EdD)
Ph.D. students specializing in education often pursue careers as professors or school administrators. Those completing EdD programs often become principals at secondary and elementary schools. - Engineering (Ph.D., DCS)
Online Ph.D. programs are available in most engineering fields. Many people earn doctor of computer science degrees (DCS). Popular doctor of engineering (DEng) programs include mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering. - Public Health(Ph.D., DPH)
Many doctorate programs in public health can be completed online. Programs are available in community health, social health, and epidemiology. One of the most popular programs is the Doctor of Public Health (DPH) program. - Business (Ph.D, DBA)
Earning a doctorate degree is difficult, but it’s a major life achievement that will open up many doors. Ph.D. students get the unique opportunity to contribute to the intellectual debate in their chosen field. The research conducted by Ph.D. students has contributed, and continues to contribute, to the advancement of science and civilization.
Online Doctorate and Ph.D. Degrees Available
The following is a selection of top doctorate and Ph.D. programs. To learn more about a specific program select a degree below.
- Applied Management
- Business & Management
- Education
- Health Administration & Medical
- Human Services
- Leadership
- Psychology & Counseling
- Public Health
- Public Policy
- More »
Featured Online Ph.D Programs
 | Northcentral University Northcentral University (NCU) was founded to provide accessible, high-quality, online graduate degrees to working professionals. As a regionally accredited, online university, NCU serves students worldwide, focusing on Doctoral and Master's degree programs in the Schools of Business and Technology Management, Education, Psychology, and Marriage and Family Sciences. Learn More > |
| University of the Rockies University of the Rockies provides high-quality, accessible learning opportunities globally for diverse groups of individuals seeking preparation for life goals, professional practice, service, and distinguished leadership. Learn More > |
| Grand Canyon University (GCU) With a spotlight on intellectual creativity and innovation for the 21stcentury, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at GCU provides a job focused education. It blends the study of traditional humanities in a modern context. Through academic inquiry and beyond the box thinking, the college advances our society and its accomplishments. Learn More > |
| The Chicago School of Professional Psychology The Chicago School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and is an active member of the National Council of Schools and Programs of Professional Psycholog which has recognized The Chicago School for its distinguished service and outstanding contributions to cultural diversity and advocacy. Learn More > |