part time phd programs

25 Best Part Time PhD Programs [2024 Guide]

Explore part time PhD programs. Compare schools and see why you should consider earning your doctorate part time.

If work or other responsibilities have been holding you back from diving headfirst into doctoral studies, consider part time PhD programs instead.

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You may enroll in an on-campus or online PhD program to earn your doctoral credentials on a schedule that fits your busy lifestyle.

Universities Offering PhD and Other Doctorate Programs Online

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

1. Andrews University

Andrews University is a private university in Berrien Springs, Michigan, that is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Founded in 1874, Andrews has a current annual enrollment of 3,366.

Students can pursue 130 undergraduate and 70 graduate majors across eight schools and colleges. Degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels are available.

• PhD in Curriculum and Instruction
• PhD in Educational Leadership
• PhD in Higher Education Administration
• PhD in Leadership

Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Clemson University

Clemson University is a public research university located in Clemson, South Carolina. Founded in 1889, Clemson boasts an annual student enrollment nearing 30,000. U.S. News & World Report ranks Clemson University in 24th place among all public universities.

Students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across Clemson’s seven schools and colleges.

• PhD in Healthcare Genetics
• PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management
• PhD in Rhetorics, Communication and Information Design

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

3. George Washington University

Chartered in 1821 by an act of the United States Congress, George Washington University stands today as a private research university with an annual enrollment of more than 27,000. GWU is divided into 14 colleges and schools offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.

The Princeton Review consistently ranks George Washington University as a top college in a number of categories. In addition, GWU has been ranked as one of the Top Universities for Producing Billionaires by the Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings.

• PhD in Nursing
• PhD in Systems Engineering

GW  is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

4. Hampton University

Hampton University is a private, historically black university located in Hampton, Virginia, that was founded in 1868. The university is comprised of 10 accredited schools and colleges offering 50 bachelor’s programs, 26 master’s programs, and seven doctoral programs. The Alumni Factor has named Hampton one of the best colleges in Virginia.

• PhD in Business Administration
• PhD in Educational Management

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

5. Indiana State University

Indiana State University is a public university located in Terre Haute, Indiana, with a history dating back to 1865. ISU offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and 75 graduate. Students can pursue 20 bachelor’s degrees, 22 master’s degrees, and seven doctoral degrees on campus and online through ISU’s six academic colleges.

• PhD in Educational Administration – Higher Education Leadership
• PhD in Educational Administration – School Administration
• PhD in Technology Management

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Keiser University

Keiser University is a private university based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Founded in 1977, Keiser offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs available both on campus and online. Money magazine has rated Keiser University one of the top colleges for the money in Florida. Nearly 20,000 students study at Keiser.

• PhD in Criminal Justice and Criminology
• PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Instructional Design and Technology

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

7. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private evangelical Christian university founded in Lynchburg, Virginia, in 1971. The school consists of 17 distinct colleges offering a wide variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Programs are divided between 366 on-campus options and 280 online options.

• PhD in Bible Exposition
• PhD in Communication
• PhD in Criminal Justice
• PhD in Criminal Justice – Homeland Security
• PhD in Criminal Justice – Leadership
• PhD in Education – Curriculum and Instruction
• PhD in Education – Instructional Design and Technology
• PhD in Education – Organizational Leadership
• PhD in Education – Special Education
• PhD in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership
• PhD in History
• PhD in Nursing – Nursing Education
• PhD in Psychology – Developmental Psychology
• PhD in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Psychology – Social Psychology
• PhD in Public Policy
• PhD in Public Policy – Economic Policy
• PhD in Public Policy – Education Policy
• PhD in Public Policy – Foreign Policy
• PhD in Public Policy – National Security
• PhD in Public Policy – Social Policy
• PhD in Strategic Media
• PhD in Theology and Apologetics

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

8. Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University is a public research university located near Starkville, Mississippi, that is classified among RI Doctoral Universities for very high research activity. MSU’s more than 22,000 enrolled students can pursue more than 180 areas of study for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The school was founded in 1878.

• PhD in Community College Leadership
• PhD in Computational Engineering
• PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering
• PhD in Engineering – Aerospace Engineering
• PhD in Engineering – Civil Engineering
• PhD in Engineering – Mechanical Engineering
• PhD in Industrial & Systems Engineering

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

9. North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a public, historically black university located in Greensboro, North Carolina. The school was founded in 1891 by the North Carolina General Assembly. It is ranked among the top historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) by U.S. News & World Report.

A total of 54 bachelor’s, 29 master’s, and nine doctoral degrees are offered through the school’s eight colleges.

• PhD in Leadership Studies

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Texas Tech University

Established in 1923, Texas Tech University is a public research university in Lubbock, Texas, featuring 13 colleges and 60 research centers. The Princeton Review has ranked Texas Tech among the 125 best colleges in the Western United States.

Texas Tech offers 150 options for bachelor’s degrees, 110 options for master’s degrees, and 59 doctoral degree programs.

• PhD in Curriculum and Instructions – Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education
• PhD in Curriculum and Instructions – Language, Diversity & Literacy Studies
• PhD in Curriculum and Instructions – STEM
• PhD in Educational Leadership Policy
• PhD in Family and Consumer Science Education
• PhD in Special Education

Texas Tech University  is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

11. University at Buffalo

Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo a public research university with campuses in Buffalo and Amherst, New York. Nearly 32,000 students are enrolled in what is considered to be the largest public university in New York. UB offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 13 academic schools and colleges.

• PhD in Information Science

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

12. University of Alabama – Huntsville

The University of Alabama in Huntsville was founded in 1950. It is one of three members of the University of Alabama System. UAH school awards 44 bachelor’s, 30 master’s and 15 doctoral degrees across nine colleges to a study body of nearly 10,000.

UAH is a space-grant university with a large focus on engineering and science programs.

• PhD in Civil Engineering
• PhD in Engineering Management
• PhD in Industrial Engineering
• PhD in Joint Nursing Science

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

13. University of Colorado – Denver

A member of the University of Colorado system, the University of Colorado Denver is a public research facility offering hundreds of degree programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies across dozens schools and colleges.

Total annual enrollment stands at 24,910. Forbes places the University of Colorado Denver 34th on the its list of best public colleges.

University of Colorado – Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant research university with a main campus in Gainesville, Florida. This senior member of the State University System of Florida offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs to the more than 56,000 students that enroll annually.

The list of notable UF alumni includes Erin Andrews, Emmitt Smith, Faye Dunaway, and Marc Rubio.

• PhD in Classical Civilization
• PhD in Latin and Roman Studies

The  University of Florida  is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

15. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a public research university based in Lawrence, Kansas. Founded in 1865, KU offers more than 345 degree programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies. KU has an annual enrollment of more than 28,400 students.

The school’s faculty and alumni list includes four NASA astronauts, seven Pulitzer Prize winners, 27 Rhodes Scholars, and 325 Fulbright Scholars.

The  University of Kansas  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

16. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri was founded in 1839 as the flagship of the University of Missouri System. Mizzou currently offers more than 300 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across 13 major academic divisions for its more than 30,000 enrolled students.

• PhD in Architectural Studies

The University of Missouri is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

17. University of North Carolina – Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a public research university located in Greensboro, North Carolina, that dates back to 1891. This school with an annual enrollment topping 20,000 is part of the University of North Carolina system.

More than 100 bachelor’s, 61 master’s, and 26 doctoral programs are offered at UNCG.

The  University of North Carolina at Greensboro  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. University of North Dakota

Located in Grand Forks, the University of North Dakota offers 90 bachelor’s majors, 54 master’s programs, and 27 doctoral programs. UND was founded in 1883. Currently, UND has an annual enrollment of 13,581 students spread across its 10 academic divisions. The school’s athletic teams compete in the NCAA’s Division I.

• PhD in Aerospace Sciences
• PhD in Biomedical Engineering
• PhD in Chemical Engineering
• PhD in Electrical Engineering
• PhD in Energy Engineering
• PhD in Environmental Engineering
• PhD in Indigenous Health
• PhD in Petroleum Engineering

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

19. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina is a public research university located in Columbia, South Carolina. The more than 35,000 students enrolled at USC today can study toward bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. The school’s history dates back to 1801.

• PhD in Computer Engineering
• PhD in Computer Science
• PhD in Mechanical Engineering
• PhD in Nuclear Engineering

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

20. University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota is a public research university in Vermillion, South Dakota, with an enrollment of nearly 10,000 students. The university is divided between seven colleges offering hundreds of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. USD’s campus is home to the National Music Museum. The school was founded in 1862.

• PhD in Health Sciences

USD  is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

21. University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi is a public research university with a main campus located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Southern Miss awards bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across more than 189 programs. Founded in 1910, the school boasts an annual enrollment of more than 14,00 students.

Southern Mississippi’s academic offerings are divided across four colleges and schools.

• PhD in Nursing Leadership

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

22. University of Tennessee – Knoxville

Founded in 1794, the University of Tennessee is a public research university located in Knoxville, Tennessee. UT offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 10 undergraduate colleges and eleven graduate colleges. Annual enrollment stands at close to 29,000 students.

Established two years before Tennessee officially became a state, the University of Tennessee is one of the oldest public universities in the country.

• PhD in Industrial and Systems Engineering – Engineering Management

The  University of Tennessee – Knoxville  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

23. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands is a private university located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, dating back to 1888. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in a variety of specialties in the arts and sciences are offered across four colleges. Total annual enrollment is 13,476.

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

24. Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University is a public research university located in Richmond, Virginia, with a history dating back to 1838. VCU offers more than 217 programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 11 schools and three colleges.

U.S. News & World Report has classified VCU as a Tier 1 University that ranks in 84th place among all public colleges and universities in the United States.

• PhD in Health Related Sciences

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

25. West Virginia University

Founded in 1875, West Virginia University is a public research university with a main campus in Morgantown, West Virginia. More than 350 academic programs for bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees are offered through 14 schools and colleges for the nearly 30,000 students who enroll at WVU annually.

Designated among the R1 Research Universities for very high research activity, WVU boasts research partnerships with the Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

West Virginia University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Do Part Time PhD Programs Exist?

Yes, part time PhD programs do exist. Universities know that many people have packed schedules. To accommodate busy students, some schools give the option of part-time enrollment in PhD programs online or on-campus.

The idea is that you may work your way through one of these programs while still living at home and holding a regular job — no uprooting your life required.

Many part-time PhD programs are offered online, which can be particularly convenient. Online college allows you to attend the university of your choice without having to move away from your hometown.

You may take classes online, chat digitally with your academic advisors, and work on your dissertation from the comfort of your own home. Even still, there may be some in-person residencies or practicums required.

Finances are one of the best reasons to enroll in a part-time online program. The paycheck that you bring in each week can help you afford your grad school tuition without living on ramen noodles for five years straight.

Of course, being able to hold a full-time job while going through your doctoral program is more than just a way to make money. Particularly if your field of study is relevant to your job, you may find many opportunities to connect your classroom studies to real-world experiences.

It’s even possible that a situation at work may provide inspiration for the topic of your doctoral dissertation. If you feel that a dissertation may prevent you from finishing your PhD, then a professional doctorate may be a better choice.

For example, doctor of education programs don’t require dissertations in many cases. Instead, students may complete a final capstone project to demonstrate subject mastery.

Part-time students don’t make up the majority of doctoral candidates; even still, you certainly won’t be the only one if you choose to go this route. In the past year, approximately 44% of doctoral students were enrolled in part-time programs .

What Are the Most Popular PhD Programs?

Doctorates are available in practically any field, but some are more common than others. The following table shows some of the top PhDs that you may be able to earn online.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some related careers and their average salaries include:

Getting your doctorate may certainly increase your earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for PhDs is $110,200. That’s a large jump from $78,210, the average annual earnings for those with a master’s degree.

How Do Part Time PhD Degree Programs Work?

To graduate from a part-time doctoral program, you’ll need to do the same work that you would for a full-time course of study. You’ll simply spread the work out over a longer stretch of time.

The first portion of your program will likely be devoted to classes. If you’re enrolled on a part-time basis, you’ll probably keep your course load light instead of taking multiple classes at once.

You may be able to take the classes online, but your school may require a few in-person residencies as well.

Some classes will focus on the research methods that are essential for all doctoral candidates to know, such as analyzing data and writing scholarly reports. At this point, you may also start thinking about a topic for your upcoming research project.

Other courses will be related to your field of study. While some classes may be required of every student in your PhD department, others may be electives. That way, you may build a course of study that is tailored to your career goals and research interests.

After completing your classes, your school may require oral or written testing as a way of assessing your knowledge.

Next, you’ll turn your attention toward your dissertation or another final project. This usually requires completing original research and reporting your findings in a detailed paper.

Even for full-time students, it may take several years to complete a dissertation. On a part-time basis, you may be working on this project even longer.

Once you finish your dissertation, the school’s faculty will need to approve it. Then, you’ll answer questions during a defense of your research. If the faculty determines that you have successfully defended your dissertation, you’ll then be awarded your PhD.

How Long Does It Take to Do a PhD Part Time?

How long it takes to complete your PhD through a part-time schedule is largely up to you and how much you can commit to your studies at any point in time.

You may find that there are some seasons in which you’re able to invest a good portion of your time and other seasons when you’re only able to do the bare minimum to keep going.

As a general rule, though, you should expect your part-time studies to last for several years. Being a part-time student won’t exempt you from any of the program’s requirements.

You’ll still need to earn just as many credit hours, complete any residency or internship experiences, and do the same final projects. The work will just be spread out over a longer period of time.

You should probably plan to work on your doctoral program for six to eight years. Some students take even longer. There may be a maximum duration allowed by your program, so be sure to discuss that with your faculty advisor.

Although part-time schooling is convenient, being enrolled in the same program for years on end may start to feel tedious. It’s important to choose an area of study that you really care about.

Your passion for your studies can keep you motivated even when graduation still seems a long way off.

Admission Requirements for a PhD

No matter what type of doctoral program it is, whether it is a part time or an online accelerated doctoral program , they can be competitive and you’ll want to make sure that your application stands out to the admissions committee. The first step is making sure that you meet the requirements and include all necessary documentation.

• Application and fee: Filling out this form gives the committee basic information about you, so be sure to complete it thoroughly. The fee will be non-refundable, even if you aren’t admitted.
• College transcripts: These demonstrate whether you have the appropriate academic background. You will need to hold a bachelor’s degree, and you may need a master’s degree as well. There may be minimum GPA scores required.
• Test scores: Many schools use GRE or GMAT scores to determine whether you have what it takes to succeed in a PhD program. If you’re an international applicant, you may also need TOEFL scores to demonstrate your proficiency with the English language.
• Letters of reference: These should come from academic or professional colleagues who can attest to your commitment and character. Two or three letters may be required.
• Personal statement or research proposal: This is your chance to communicate your study goals. That way, the school can determine whether your interests align with the expertise of the faculty.

Pay close attention to application deadlines. It’s smart to submit your materials a few weeks before the cutoff since schools don’t usually take late applications.

Accreditation for PhD Programs

Accreditation is a process in which an independent organization evaluates a college’s programs and results to determine whether the school is doing a good job of educating students. If the college is up to par, then it receives approval from an accrediting body.

The primary type of accreditation to consider is regional accreditation . There are seven U.S. organizations that have the right to grant regional accreditation.

There are fairly high standards for regional accreditation. As a result, this type of accreditation is well-respected, and employers are often more inclined to select candidates whose degrees come from regionally accredited schools.

Financial Aid for PhD Students

Paying for a doctorate out of pocket can be an overwhelming prospect, but there are a number of options for funding your PhD.

• Fellowships: Based on your personal merits, your school or a private organization may give you fellowship money intended to further your research goals.
• Government grants: If your income qualifies, you may get free tuition help from the state or federal government.
• Government loans: You may have the option to take out low-interest loans from the federal government or your state.
• Private loans: To supplement your financial package, you may also need private loans. Just be aware that these can come with high interest rates.
• Scholarships: You can apply for gift money from a scholarship-granting organization, such as a professional association in your field.
• Stipends: Some schools grant PhD candidates a small stipend. There are usually stipulations to this, and the rules may differ for part-time students.

To find out more, talk to your school’s financial aid department. Be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Also, if getting a doctorate could benefit your performance at work, you may be able to request tuition assistance from your employer.

Can You Do PhD Part Time?

Yes, you can do a PhD part time. Studying for a PhD doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Just as there are part time masters programs , you can likewise enroll in a doctoral program on a part-time basis.

With that approach, you may be able to go to work during the day and take classes or write papers in the evening. It may even be possible to complete the coursework online.

Is PhD Full Time or Part Time?

Both full-time and part-time PhD programs are available. Some people choose to earn their doctorates as quickly as possible by going to school full-time. Others opt to enroll part-time so that they may keep up with work or family responsibilities.

Keep in mind that not all schools give you the choice between full-time and part-time study; their traditional or online doctoral programs may be specifically designed for one or the other.

Is a PhD Worth It?

Yes, a PhD is worth it for many students. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a 5.9% job growth for doctoral or professional degree holders over the next 1o years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Getting a PhD may open new doors. Earning this top degree may grant you entrance into academia as a researcher or a professor.

It may also prepare you to assume high leadership roles and earn more money in your field. Plus, there’s often a sense of personal satisfaction that comes from accomplishing a huge goal like earning a PhD.

If you’re ready to put those three letters after your name, then it’s time to think about enrolling in a doctoral program. Apply to part-time PhD programs so you may pursue your degree without putting your life on hold.

Best Part-Time PhD and Doctoral Programs (Online & Campus)

Learn how you can earn your PhD or professional doctorate part-time, plus find top colleges offering these flexible programs online and on-campus.

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Are you eager to expand your expertise and become a leader in your field? Perhaps you have already obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree and are looking to advance your career further. Pursuing a PhD or professional doctorate degree is the next logical step. However, you may be hesitant about taking on an intense doctoral program while also working full-time.

Fortunately, quality universities offer part-time programs (including convenient online options) that can make earning your doctorate much more manageable. This guide provides insight into the best part-time PhD and doctoral programs, explores common fields of study that offer part-time programs, and answers frequently asked questions about these programs. Keep reading to determine if a part-time doctoral program is right for you and find the one that can take your career to the next level.

Part-Time PhD and Doctoral Programs: Best in 2024

Quality, affordability, and accreditation are important when searching for the best part-time PhD and doctoral programs. The best choice for you, though, often boils down to how well a program fits with your full-time work schedule and everyday life. We’ve rounded up the top part-time PhD and doctoral programs that are flexible for maintaining work, life, and education balance while also providing a high-quality education.

Johns Hopkins University’s Part-Time Online DrPH

John Hopkins University provides public health professionals with a robust Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) . The program helps early- to mid-career professionals working in international or domestic public health roles become leaders in their fields. There are ten concentrations, and the program helps connect students with the right courses, opportunities, and research projects to reach their individual goals. 

This program offers part-time enrollment and can be completed in one year when attending full-time. To be eligible, applicants must hold an MPH from an accredited university and have at least three years of work experience in the field. Additionally, John Hopkins offers competitive scholarships to help offset the program’s costs.

George Mason University’s School of Policy and Government Part-Time PhD Programs

George Mason University offers three PhD programs – biodefense, public policy, and political science – to those working in the public policy sector. The Schar School PhD programs are designed for those who want a heavy research focus and the opportunity to conduct ground-breaking research in their fields. Alumni find success working in academia, for government organizations, and at nonprofits thanks to the school’s robust dissertation program, rigorous coursework, and networking opportunities. 

Each program is available part-time or full-time and offers opportunities to customize the curriculum to your career goals. Prospective students need previous educational and work experience in the public policy field.

Boston College’s Part-Time (Ed.D.) in Higher Education

Boston College’s Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education program exists for those looking to advance their careers in higher education. The program develops innovative leaders who are ready to tackle the big problems facing higher education today. A unique feature of this program is how the school designs cohorts so each student comes from a different background to increase the diversity of thought in the program. Courses are all offered online and at times that work around a typical nine-to-five career. 

Program requirements include summer residencies in Boston and Dublin. This three-year program also boasts a global focus with research and networking opportunities across the globe. Successful applicants need at least seven years of professional experience and a master’s degree.  

Wayne State University’s Part-Time PhD in Social Work

Wayne State University offers one of the best part-time doctoral programs in social work in the country for those who already have a master’s in social work. With options in anthropology, gerontology, or infant mental health emphasis, the first three years of coursework prepare students for the final phase of the program – a dissertation. Graduates of WSU’s doctoral programs often take on leadership roles in academia, clinical scholarship, and social welfare policy. While part-time enrollment is possible, students must complete the program within seven years.

Drexel University’s Part-Time Online DBA

The Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program from Drexel University offers business professionals an online option to gain a high-quality doctoral education on their own schedules. The program prepares leaders for the business world and focuses on applying business theory to real-world scenarios. Students can also take PhD-level courses from other disciplines to integrate non-business ideas into their dissertations and projects. 

Drexel designed its program for those with over ten years of experience in business, and the admissions process is highly selective with each cohort consisting of only 12-18 students. While most PhD programs are completed in three years, this program can be completed in two and a half when enrolled full-time, though part-time enrollment is also an option. 

Most Popular Part-Time PhDs and Doctorates

Part-time PhD and professional doctorate programs are available in various fields of study. While professional doctorate programs emphasize applying research in practical settings and are commonly offered in part-time or online formats, PhD programs require original research contributions. Nevertheless, there are several popular part-time PhD and professional doctorate programs to choose from. The list below provides an overview of some of the most sought-after programs and can help you explore your options.

Criminal Justice

Since PhD and doctoral programs in criminal justice are for those already working in the criminal justice field, many are part-time and online . A PhD is more research-focused, like the Criminal Justice with a Concentration in Intelligence (Ph.D.) program at the University of North Georgia. A professional doctorate program, like the Doctoral Program in Criminal Justice at Texas State University, is focused on applying academic theories to professional settings. Many of these degrees are available online and on a part-time or full-time basis.

A doctorate or PhD program in nursing is a great option for nurses want to become nurse practitioners, teach at the college level, or conduct original research. Since candidates usually need master’s degrees and previous work experience, many online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are designed for working professionals. There are two types of advanced nursing programs commonly offered, the PhD in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Baylor University and the online PhD program at George Washington University are examples of these types of advanced nursing programs.

A PhD in business or Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) are some of the most common part-time programs designed to be completed while working full-time. Many online DBA programs and online PHD programs in business work especially well for busy professionals. The DBA at Washington University and the Katz Executive DBA from the University of Pittsburgh are examples of online, part-time options for advanced business degrees.

Education doctorates and PhD programs work well for teachers and educators wanting advanced leadership influence in the field. The programs are usually part-time and work around a typical academic schedule. Online education doctorate s focus on applying academic theories to educational settings, while online PhD in education programs are more focused on academia. The PhD program from Harvard University , available on campus and either part-time or full-time, and the part-time Doctor of Education – Online with Residency program from Northeastern University are examples of popular advanced education degree programs.

Communications

A doctorate or PhD program in communication is a great option for those already in the communication field who want to enhance their expertise. Since candidates often need a master’s degree and previous work experience in the field to apply, many online communications doctorate programs are designed for working professionals. The online PhD in Communication program at American University and Columbia’s PhD in Communications give examples of popular doctorate and PhD programs in education.

Public Health

A Doctor of Public Health is one of the most common part-time advanced programs and is designed to be completed while working full-time. Many online public health doctorates work especially well for working professionals, some with work requirements built into the curriculum. That means having a full-time role can actually help you progress more quickly through the program. Boston University and Penn State University both offer part-time PhD programs.

Key Questions About Part-Time PhD and Doctoral Programs

Are part-time phd and doctoral programs offered online.

While it is highly subject-dependent, many PhD and doctoral programs are offered online . However, it’s not only the subject matter that can determine if a program is offered online but the type of degree, too. Since a professional doctoral program is designed for working professionals, it is often offered online and around a typical work schedule. The Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from John Hopkins University and the public policy PhD programs from George Mason University are examples of these types of flexible programs. However, PhDs are more academia focused and less likely to be offered online since they often have an in-person research component.

How long does it take to complete a part-time PhD?

The time it takes to complete a part-time PhD program depends on the curriculum, how many courses you take each semester, and the timeline for your dissertation. On average, expect a part-time PhD to take three to five years with some programs having a seven-year maximum you can spend on your coursework and dissertation.

Are part-time PhD students eligible for financial aid?

While PhD programs cost more than undergraduate and master’s programs, there’s also often more financial aid available to doctoral students. PhD students are often eligible for PhD-specific grants and scholarships as well as fellowship and tuition reimbursement opportunities. For more information on completing your PhD on a budget, check out our financial aid guide .

Am I still required to do a dissertation as a part-time PhD student?

Most part-time PhDs still have a dissertation requirement. Some professional doctorate programs have shorter research projects or capstones instead, which are less of a commitment than a dissertation. If you are looking for a program with a capstone instead of a dissertation, it’s best to talk directly to the programs you’re interested in about research requirements.

Do part-time doctoral programs have residency requirements?

This depends on your chosen field of study. Health-related fields and social work programs typically have residency requirements, but many programs outside of health and social work have them as well. For example, Boston College’s Executive EdD program has summer residency requirements for students. Residencies are often tailored around a working professional’s schedule, though, and work experience can sometimes be substituted in place of the requirement.

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Part-time PhD Programs

Tufts School of Engineering’s part-time PhD Program helps working professionals achieve their education and career goals. Conduct cutting-edge research and develop new technologies with our world-class faculty, all while maintaining your employment in industry.

Our part-time PhD program is tailored for industry professionals who receive full financial support from their employers. Financial arrangements between the employee and employer must be agreed upon in advance. Tufts University does not offer stipends, scholarships, discounts, or financial support for this program. Part-time PhD students are not eligible for TA/RA positions, grading roles, or any other paid positions within the university. We strongly advise applicants to seek employer permission before considering external work. It's essential to adhere to employment agreements and program policies to ensure compliance.

Qualified domestic students who are interested in continued learning, developing their skill set, or expanding their career path are encouraged to apply. This program is not available to international applicants unless they are currently working for a U.S. company. No visas can be issued for part-time PhD students.

How to Apply

All applicants must submit the following materials: Contact an advisor or faculty member Contact the advisor or faculty member with whom you would like to study to talk about the specific requirements. Before applying you must first have a discussion with a faculty member to confirm that there is mutual interest in the research the applicant intends to pursue. A successful discussion and any agreement among the candidate and faculty member does not supersede the formal application process. All applicants must formally apply. The application will be reviewed following all the processes and guidelines established for SOE graduate applicants.

Online Application for Admission  Note: An application fee of $85 is payable through the online application by credit card or e-check (drawn on a U.S. bank). The application fee is not refundable. Your credit card or e-check statement is your receipt. Applications cannot be reviewed until this fee has been received. Check our website to see if you are eligible for a fee waiver. Start or resume your application here .

Academic Records  Applicants are required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each accredited college or university attended, where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree. Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, you are required to provide a certified, official translation into English. If you are admitted and decide to enroll, you will be required to request the official hard copy transcripts from all of your degree granting institutions be sent directly to our Office of Graduate Admissions, from that institution, before you can matriculate. 

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited U.S. institution. Letters of Recommendation Most programs will require three letters of recommendation. Current Tufts students and alumni are only required to submit two letters. If an applicant submits three letters, one letter may be a commitment letter from your company that your studies will be supported. Letters of recommendation should be submitted through the online application system. If that is not possible, you may have your recommender email their letter as an attachment to [email protected], from a company/institutional/organization/professional email account. Personal Statement  Applicants are required to upload a personal statement describing your reasons for wanting to pursue graduate study at Tufts in the program to which you are applying. Please limit your personal statement to a maximum of five pages. Refer to the Requirements and Deadlines  to determine if the program to which you are applying has specific prompts.  Résumé / CV A current résumé or CV that includes information about, and dates of your educational history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, and other activities is required to be uploaded as part of your completed application.

> Spring applications need to be completed and submitted by September 15th .

> Fall applications need to be completed and submitted by December 15th .

Some exceptions may be made by the faculty member you will be working with.

Tuition and Fees

Students who enroll part-time in an engineering PhD program will be responsible for all tuition and fees charged at a per semester rate. No scholarships, financial aid, or stipends are available for these programs. Please visit  https://asegrad.tufts.edu/tuition-aid/tuition-and-fees  for more details.

Financial Aid and Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Low-interest Federal Direct Loans and Federal Perkins Loans are administered by Tufts Student Financial Services which maintains information on all federal programs as well as alternative forms of financing such as non-need-based loans. Federal aid is available for U.S. citizens and permanent residents only. To apply for Federal Direct loans, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The form is available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov, and the Tufts University Institution code is 002219. We recommend that you file the FAFSA by December 1 for spring admission and by March 1 for fall admission.

Tuition reimbursement/Tuition assistance is an employee benefit through which an employer pays for a predetermined amount of continuing education credits or college coursework to be applied toward a degree. These programs are intended for employees looking to advance their careers and educational goals by increasing their industry knowledge and developing advanced skills.

PhD Programs

Faculty Members

Below you will find faculty members who are eager to receive part-time PhD applications. Click on the department heading for a list of available faculty members.

Biomedical Engineering

Chemical and Biological Engineering

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Computer Science

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

• Part-Time PhD Study – A Guide

Part-Time PhD Study

Written by Mark Bennett

What to expect in this guide

Opting for a part-time PhD is a practical solution for those who can't commit to a full-time PhD programme. In this guide we delve into the advantages and potential challenges of pursuing a part-time PhD including:

• its flexible nature and ability to earn while you study;
• the practical experience you can get from continuing with work alongside studying;
• how long it will take to complete;
• how to balance work, studies and personal life.

The main difference between part-time PhDs and full-time study is the length of the course. By the end of the PhD you will have completed the same amount of work and produced a full length thesis .

While most students in our Pulse survey data are interested in full-time PhDs, those in the upper age groups (45+ years) are more likely to consider part-time (37% versus 15% between 18-44 year olds).

There are many reasons why you might do a PhD part-time, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.

This page will take you through everything you need to know about doing a PhD part-time. By the end of this guide you will understand the positives and negatives of part-time study, how your doctorate will work and the costs and funding involved.

On this page

What is a part-time phd.

A part-time PhD isn’t that different from a full-time PhD. The main difference is that you spend less time researching each week. But remember, no part-time PhD looks the same. While it is common for students to work on weekends or in the evenings, your schedule will entirely depend on what works best for you.

Can you do a part-time PhD?

Most universities offer part-time programmes for PhD students. However, whether studying part-time is an option for you in particular will depend on the stipulations of your specific project and on your funding. Some studentships and scholarships are only available for full-time students, or your funder may require that you complete your PhD in a set period of time.

How long does a part-time PhD take?

Traditionally, a part-time PhD will take double the time of a full-time doctorate. In the UK, the standard PhD is usually between three to four years. Part-time students should expect to be studying for six to eight years . But it is not unheard of for some to finish after five years. How long a part-time PhD takes most depends on how much time you are able to dedicate to research each week. However, if you are in receipt of funding then your funder will likely determine the length of the course.

How many hours per week is a part-time PhD?

If you work on the basis that a part-time PhD takes twice as long as it would full-time then you should expect to work half the weekly hours. As a standard, universities recommend full-time students to work 35 hours per week , though many may study more (and some less). Therefore, a part-time student might aim to work around 17 hours per week .

However, there is no set amount of hours you’re supposed to put aside for research when studying a part-time PhD. The decision is up to you. People work at different rates and so it’s best to consult with your supervisor if you worry you aren’t doing enough or are feeling burnt out. The best thing is to be consistent . Instead of choosing to study as and when you have time, you should choose regular days or hours to be repeated each week.

Is a part-time PhD easier?

A part-time PhD has both positives and negatives making it hard to determine whether it’s easier than studying full-time. How ‘easy’ a part-time PhD is will heavily depend on your long term motivation and available time.

Here are a few of the positives that studying part-time offers:

• Less time is dedicated to studying each week, freeing up more time for work or personal commitments
• It gives people the option to research their passion who might not be able to study full-time
• Fees and additional costs are more spread out making the degree more financially manageable

And here are some of the negatives :

• It can be hard to motivate yourself when the degree can take more than five years to complete
• There is more time for personal and work issues to crop up and take precedent over your studies
• You may find it harder to interact with the research community if you’re balancing work

Should I do a PhD part-time?

There are many reasons why students opt to study a PhD part-time:

• Study around current commitments : People intending to do a PhD may already have a full-time job. By studying part-time you won’t need to compromise other areas of your life. Many universities offer part-time study so that people in these types of situations are still able to follow their research passion.
• Spread the costs : Even if you’re in receipt of funding, costs such as travel or personal equipment can add up quickly. By doing a PhD part-time these costs become more spread out. Instead of travelling into university five days a week, you might only do two. Or you may be able to study at home, only going in when necessary to use resources or meet with a supervisor.
• Flexibility : Not only can you balance your life, career and studies more easily in your day-to-day but your mode of study can be changed too. Depending on your course you may be able to change from full-time study to part-time if you desired, and vice-versa. If you find that your personal situation changes, adapting your study situation could be a better option than dropping out.

Fees and funding

The big questions when it comes to studying a part-time PhD are whether or not it’s cheaper than full-time study and if there is funding available. This section will take you through everything you need to know about financing a part-time PhD.

How much does a part-time PhD cost?

Essentially a part-time PhD costs the same amount as a full-time PhD, the costs are just spread out. Usually, yearly tuition is half the amount a full-time student would pay . Technically, as some students have worked enough to hand it their final dissertation after five years, rather than six, it is possible to pay slightly less towards tuition overall. However, both life and research can be unpredictable and so we don’t encourage students to enter a part-time PhD assuming that they will be able to finish early.

Can you get funding for a part-time PhD?

Though funded opportunities for part-time students are less common, there are scholarships and studentships out there. Some may come from Research Councils , others from the universities themselves. You can search for funded part-time PhD opportunities on our website.

Unfortunately not every PhD student is awarded a studentship or scholarship but there are many alternative funding options. Part-time students may be able to find financial support through charities and trusts or may choose to apply for the government’s postgraduate student loan .

Currently you can borrow up to £27,265 to cover the entirety of your PhD. The loan is not means-tested and the amount you choose to borrow will be given in equal instalments throughout the degree. Payments are made at the start of each term. So, if you apply for the full loan to cover a six-year PhD then the yearly amount you’ll receive will be around £9,100. This will then be transferred to your account in three parts, meaning that you’ll receive around £3,030 at the start of each semester.

The nature of part-time study also makes it easier to work during your PhD . Many students choose to self-fund their studies. Completing a PhD part-time makes this a more accessible option.

Want to study a part-time PhD?

Search our huge database for part-time PhD opportunities on FindaPhD.com

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

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The PhD thesis is the most important part of a doctoral degree. This page will introduce you to what you need to know about the PhD dissertation.

This page will give you an idea of what to expect from your routine as a PhD student, explaining how your daily life will look at you progress through a doctoral degree.

PhD fees can vary based on subject, university and location. Use our guide to find out the PhD fees in the UK and other destinations, as well as doctoral living costs.

Our guide tells you everything about the application process for studying a PhD in the USA.

Postgraduate students in the UK are not eligible for the same funding as undergraduates or the free-hours entitlement for workers. So, what childcare support are postgraduate students eligible for?

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• Online Doctoral Programs
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Education Programs

• Counseling Programs
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Professionals seeking to obtain a Ph.D. may enroll in a part-time program to meet their educational goals. Part-time studies allow working professionals to obtain their degree without accepting a reduction in salary.

The program of study requires that students fulfill the same requirements as their full-time peers. Students who are enrolled part-time are afforded between 7 and 10 years to complete the program of study. Full-time students pursuing a Ph.D. may complete their program of study in 2 to 3 years depending upon the curriculum.

Many universities will place restrictions on the number of courses a student can complete part-time. However, most universities will require that professionals enroll each quarter to complete their program of study.

About Part-Time PhD Programs

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), half of the students enrolled in graduate school are enrolled part-time. Between 2007 and 2018, the National Center for Education Statistics expects a 10 percent increase in graduate student enrollment.

Ph.D. programs differ based upon the desired curriculum the student wants to study. Some Ph.D. programs, such as the Executive Doctoral program, require professionals obtain a specified amount of work experience prior to enrollment. Academic teaching Ph.D. program requirements vary from program to program. All Ph.D. programs require students complete a Master’s degree prior to entering a Ph.D. program.

Some academic programs place other limitations on students enrolled part-time. These restrictions may include limited financial aid awards and limited insurance benefits for part-time students. Part-time students must be approved by the school’s administration prior to enrollment into any academic program. These students may take longer to finish their programs. However, part-time students do not tolerate a pay reduction. Doctoral degrees may offer advancement for executives. Alternatively, doctoral degrees may offer advancements in the academic arena.

Part-time doctoral programs may take place online or in a traditional classroom setting. Distance-learning classes may consist of Web 2.0 technology to disseminate tasks, case studies, video instruction, and other instructional tools.

Experts at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) state that academic institutions award more Doctorate degrees in engineering, education, health professions, biomedical sciences and psychology. Individuals who receive doctoral degrees in these areas have earned a Doctor of Education, Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Medicine.

Part-Time Doctoral Degree Curriculum

Ph.D. curriculum varies depending upon the course of study chosen. In general, however, students will be required to learn critical thinking skills that may be applied to their chosen professions. Some of the curriculum may be centered on the following concepts:

• Strategy / Strategic Thinking
• Research Methodology
• Data Analysis
• Management Skills
• Leadership Skills
• Dissertation Thesis Seminar

Online Part-Time Doctoral Programs

Kansas state institute.

www.ipfp.k-state.edu

Kansas State Institute of Personal Financial Planning possesses a Ph.D. program that is conducted largely online. The program allows individuals who wish to remain in their careers to enroll in a Ph.D. program. The program is offered by the School of Family Studies and Human Services.

Most students may complete this program of study in as little 5 years. This program involves primarily online courses with intensive summer courses for 10 days. The final summer session will take place abroad to allow students to witness global markets in action. Students will learn how the global economy affects financial planning in the United States.

Students of this program will be given case studies to assist them in solving practical problems in the workplace. Knowledge of personal finance and relationships will be imparted. Teaching, researching, publication, professional groups, and leadership skills will all be taught as a part of the curriculum. Those who complete the program will be qualified to become a registered financial consultant, certified retirement counselor, registered financial associate, or an accredited financial counselor.

Syracuse University

ischool.syr.edu

Syracuse University offers professionals access to a part-time online Ph.D. program for working professionals. This program focuses on developing the skills of working professionals who would like to advance in the executive world. Promoting positive change through executive leadership is the goal of the doctoral program. Executives learn to manage, evaluate, and implement strategies that direct change in organizations.

Information management is a primary focus of the doctoral program. Syracuse University believes that organizational change relies upon efficiency of information management. The university trains professionals to direct change and implement programs to improve the flow of information in the organization and to clients. These skills are necessary in the field of public administration, network management, library management, military, and information management.

Sixteen courses are required to complete the Executive Doctoral program. The 16 courses consist of 6 residential seminars, 4 methods courses, 4 online doctoral seminars, and 2 master’s level practical courses. The 2 master’s level courses will be in one of the following areas: Network Management, Library Science, Information Management, and Telecommunications.

Offline Part-Time Doctoral Programs

Massachusetts school of professional psychology.

www.mspp.edu

The Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology offers students a part-time program in the Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) in Clinical Psychology Program. The academic school accepts students on a limited basis part-time. Students will be admitted into the Doctoral Clinical Program with an option of initial part-time enrollment. These students require special permission and will be accepted on a space available basis. Students desiring enrollment must indicate this request on their application.

The first year of this program must be completed in a maximum of two years. The remainder of the program must take no longer than 7 years to complete. Massachusetts requires students take a minimum of three academic courses per semester. Two of the courses must be either theory-based or clinically focused courses.

The first year will primarily consist of academic coursework. The second-year students are required to enroll in Clinical Seminar I and Practicum I, in addition to another course. In the third year, students are required to enroll in Clinical Seminar II and Practicum II.

Students must also enroll in an internship that must be completed in two consecutive years. The two half-time internships are integrated with coursework from classes during those same years. Students must work with their advisors in order to establish a program tailored to their specific needs.

Waiting lists are available for part-time academic programs. Students may be placed on the list until a space opens up for the student to matriculate into school.

The University of Western Ontario

www.fims.uwo.ca

The Faculty of Information and Media Studies is offering a part-time doctoral program in Library and Information Science. This particular program admits between 1 and 2 students per year. Students should meet the same requirements that are required of full-time students for enrollment. Students must complete a four-year academic degree with Honors. This requires that students have a B average or higher upon graduation.

Applicants must also possess a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science. Those students with Master’s degrees in another program of study must complete five courses in the Library and Information Science Master’s program. Additionally, the students must complete six doctoral programs as well.

Students enrolled in this program of study part-time are not eligible for the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies funding. Part-time students also may not hold external scholarships that require full-time status, if enrolled part-time. Part-time fees are simply the full-time rate divided in half.

New York University

www.nyu.edu

New York University offers students desiring a part-time Ph.D. program the opportunity to pursue the computer science course of study. These students are required to complete two courses per semester. Students who enroll in this program of study are not eligible for insurance through the school or financial aid.

Students have 10 years to complete the computer science Ph.D. program part-time. Some courses may be exempted from the curriculum if students pass an exam with a minimum of an A-.

New York University is located in Manhattan. The school has educated several Pulitzer Prize winners and Nobel Laureates. Last year, 400 students were awarded their doctoral degrees from the university. The school has also had the opportunity to have educated 70 graduate students on the prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship in the past 17 years.

Job Opportunities for Part-Time Doctoral Programs

The majority of doctoral graduates are employed in health services and academia. In fact, according to a 2000 study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 28 percent of doctoral graduates were employed in academia and 21 percent of doctoral graduates were employed in health services. The remaining graduates are employed in a variety of fields. The industries include Business, Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, Legal Services, Education and Public Administration.

The unemployment rate for doctoral graduates is one of the lowest. According to a 2004 study, the unemployment rate for doctoral graduates is 2.1 percent. The same study indicated that the rate for people with an Associate’s degree is 4.0 percent. Of course, these studies were conducted before the recession. However, that is traditionally the case. Doctoral graduates also tend to earn more in the work place. Median earnings for a doctoral graduate can be as much as 62 percent higher.

Executives that earn their doctoral degrees may be employed in the following professions:

• Chief Executive Officer
• Chief Operating Officer
• Chief Financial Officer
• Professional Consultant
• Vice President of Finance
• Vice President of Marketing
• Academic Professor

Their salaries are some of the highest of all professions. The median salary of executive doctoral candidates is $167,280. Some areas such as the New York Metropolitan area, San Jose Metropolitan area, Bridgeport Metropolitan area and Durham, NC each have a median salary between $217,080 and $210,380. States with the highest median salaries for executives with Doctorates are Delaware, New Mexico, California, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Individuals with Professional Doctorates will primarily focus on applied use of the theory obtained during their studies. Doctor of Health Sciences, Doctors of Education, Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Professional Studies, Doctor of Dental Medicine, and Juris Doctor are all professional doctorates that apply their studies within their field rather than teach full-time. Some of these professionals also choose to teach in addition to their studies. However, their primary focus is applied use of the theoretical knowledge obtained during their course of study.

In 2009, the number of applicants applying to doctoral programs rose. However, recent graduates are accepting public service jobs, such as Teach for America and other public service jobs. At Ivy League schools, like Harvard, employer recruitment is down 19 percent. Employers expect to hire 22 percent less graduates from schools nationwide in all fields. In the Northeast, employers expect to hire 39 percent less graduates from all schools nationwide.

Currently, many areas are experiencing a shortage of doctoral graduates. Health care fields, computer science, and accounting are seeking doctoral graduates to replace executives and academic professors that are retiring. Professionals enrolling in these professions are more likely to find a position despite the current economic decline.

Top Ranked Doctoral Programs

Search for other great programs, 18 responses to “part time doctoral programs”.

Are there any “classroom” part time doctoral (PhD) programs in Massachusetts?

Dear, I would like to admitt into PhD in History. I am rigorous poor. Thanks.

Can I please get more info on the phd part-time programs? Also, enrollment info would be appreciated.

I am looking the worldwide accredited university where I can take PhD by monthly expending on $10. Thanks

Hi, I am a tech journalist with over 8 yrs o exp. I am very much interested in pursuing a PhD Program in New age Media. May I know what systems do you have for working pros?

I am based out of New delhi, India.

executive phd detail

I wish tpo pursue an online programme with Phd in SAP Business systems.Please advise suitably.

Thanks and Regards Saswati Chakraborti

Trying to find an online history PH.D program..

Sean I would like to find a Phd online program in history also. If you find one, please let me know.

I have done masters in Library and Information Science and masters in Information Technology. I want to go for Ph.d in Library/Information Science with scholarship.

Pls send details

Wish to pursue any doctoral program that enhances my skills in sustainable development work

I am interested in furthering my education on a part time basis.

I am completing my MIRHR at University of Toronto.

I am looking at a PHD in organizational behavior, business management or leadership.

Can you provide me with some options ?

I’m looking for PhD part-time program in clinical health psychology and I wonder Is it possiple to conduct the reseach at my work place?

sir my wife finish m.sc.,m .phil statistics she has 7 years experience now she is working engineering college she want to part ph.d statistics sir pls guide me i am tirunelveli distict tamilnadu state i am also middle class family

I am a post graduate dgree holder in food safety management and 21 years industry experienec in food safety. I am looking for for a part time Phd programme any where in the world in food safety.

plz tell me, is it worth doing online PhD in science? will i be getting post doc jobs after getting online PhD. please reply, that would be of kind help.

i am M.Sc chemistry i am from afghanistan i am interested Ph.D program this time i am in Finland as asylum saker please help me mujeeb

Looking fora online part time phd

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10 Best Part Time PhD Programs for 2024

Here we’ll explore part-time PhD programs, compare schools, and see what earning your doctorate could do for you.

If you’d like to earn your doctoral degree but don’t really have much time to spare, you might want to consider enrolling in one of the many available part-time PhD programs.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

A part-time PhD program requires less of a time commitment, and there are both online and on-campus options.

Types of Part Time PhD Programs

The following are ten of the most popular part-time PhD programs people are enrolling in right now. Click on one to jump to that part of the page.

Business Administration

Healthcare administration, nurse practitioner (rn required), public administration, public health.

PhD graduates in these fields often enjoy very rewarding careers as professors, researchers, or industry experts.

If you’re looking for part time graduate school programs in business, taking courses toward your PhD in Business Administration may be an excellent choice. In addition to being the gold standard of business degrees in America, this degree is often recognized globally as the highest possible business administration degree.

Some universities also offer the option to select an area of concentration in a part time PhD program. For example, you could opt to get your online PhD in Accounting , or a similar field of business, like marketing, human resources, or project management.

Depending on whether you take this degree online or at an on-campus university, your curriculum may be a little different, but the basic admissions requirements and courses will likely be quite similar whichever you choose.

For example, you’ll likely need, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree in business administration, and a master’s degree in this field or another business-related field is usually preferred.

Some programs also have specific GMAT or GRE score requirements as well, though a growing number of universities are waiving this requirement.

A part time doctoral program in Business administration usually has some lecture courses and written coursework. Classes are mostly comprised of upper-level business classes in accounting, human resources management, project management, leadership, business innovations, and strategy.

Your primary focus, though, will probably be on independent research toward your final dissertation. This, along with a final exam, is usually the last step before earning a PhD. After receiving your PhD, you could potentially become a professor of business, a consultant for private companies or the government, or even a CEO or president of a company.

If you have an empathetic nature, a curious mind, a good listening ear, and the desire to genuinely help people, you might pursue a PhD in Counseling. PhD courses in the counseling field have been specifically tailored to do two things:

• Help students obtain the skills needed to become counselors in practically any environment, including K-12 schools, institutions of higher learning, private practices, prisons, mental hospitals, and more.
• Help students obtain the skills and knowledge needed to teach counseling skills to others as professors of counseling at institutes of higher learning.

The course curriculum for a counseling program is typically designed to educate students in a holistic, entire body approach to treating patients. Specific courses usually include higher-level classes in psychology, as well as counseling theories and techniques.

Other courses may cover holistic health and wellness, psychological techniques, and research. A heavy focus is often put on understanding patients of all races, backgrounds, genders, sexualities, and cultures.

In addition to lectures and seminars, you’ll probably be required to complete a lot of coursework and research.

If your ultimate goal with your PhD is to teach psychology at the post-secondary level, you may even be required to design and teach your own curriculum as part of a hands-on internship experience.

Your original dissertation will likely be your final step toward earning this PhD, after you which you could potentially teach or continue on in counseling.

If you’re considering a doctoral program in the education field, there are three different paths you can take. There’s the PhD path, which we’ll discuss here, and then there is the D.Ed. path and the Ed.D path, which are the Doctor of Education and Doctor in Education, respectively.

Earning a PhD in Education literally means you’ve received a Doctor of Philosophy in Education. (All PhDs are Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Only the specific field is different. This is why so much of their coursework focuses on research.)

Deciding whether or not a PhD is the right choice for you depends on what you want to do with it after you earn it. If you want to teach at the post-secondary level or work in educational research, then a PhD may be perfect for you.

The typical course format is a mixture of seminars, lectures, and coursework. As with practically any other PhD, your primary focus will likely be on independent research toward your dissertation, which should be a completely unique project of your choice relating to the field of education.

Your final project will probably consist of this dissertation presented before a panel of professionals in the field. You’ll likely be asked to deliver it and then defend it.

Some programs may also require you to pass a final exit exam. After you’ve earned your degree, you could potentially use it to become an educational researcher, professor of education, school administrator, superintendent, or other board of education member.

If you have a mind for numbers, money, and budgeting or work on the books and assets side of a company, a doctoral degree in finance may help further your career.

Online coursework in a finance PhD program typically focuses most heavily on a wide variety of financial and budgetary classes. Some of these include:

• Global Marketing
• The Behavior of Finance Locally, Nationally, and Globally
• Decision-making of Firms and Other Financial Institutions
• Assets Pricing
• Assets Valuation

For many, this is considered one of the best possible PhD programs to take online, and if you already have a background in finance, it could potentially be one of the shortest doctoral programs online for you. It also works well as an on-campus program.

In a typical finance program, most work is done through lectures, seminars, and hands-on experience, first developing and then rigorously testing theoretical models.

Upon earning your PhD in Finance, you should be able to pursue many different careers. You might become a compensation and/or benefits manager, chief financial officer, director of securities or commodities, financial manager, or budget analyst.

You may also be eligible for promotions of the highest level in budgeting, acquisitions, and sales. A PhD in Finance can help prepare you for a career as a high-level sales agent in almost any field.

As with most PhDs, what this degree is really designed to do is help you obtain the skills to teach a program in your subject of expertise, in this case, finance. For that reason, after earning your PhD, you may consider becoming a professor.

If you’re planning to get your PhD in Healthcare Administration, there’s a strong possibility that you’re already working somewhere in the healthcare field, possibly even in healthcare administration.

This is because most PhD in Healthcare Administration programs are only open to those who already have master’s degrees in this same field or one that’s closely related to it.

There are even some programs that require you to already be working in healthcare administration before you can be accepted into their program.

If none of these things apply to you, this might not be the degree for you. If you do have your heart set on it anyway, then you’re probably going to have to put in quite a bit of extra work first.

In addition to the desire to help and heal people, possessing a good head for business, a love of research, and excellent people skills are beneficial for pursuing this degree. Being comfortable with economics, finance, accounting, and grant-writing is helpful as well.

This degree is usually sought by those who want to become professors of the subject at a university or those who want to move into upper-level management and leadership roles within large healthcare organizations.

Some of the most commonly shared classes between different healthcare administration PhD programs are related to research, communication, and organizational strategies. There are also seminars on healthcare reform and legislation, as well as the role of politics in healthcare.

If your goal is to earn your PhD in Management, you have so many options. Other than doctoral programs in business and business administration, programs in management are some of the most numerous programs out there right now.

You likely have plenty of choices, whether you want to go the online or on-campus route.

Another great thing about a PhD degree program for management is that it has such wide-reaching possibilities. Whether you work in retail, factory work, or engineering, chances are you have a management team.

That’s because every field needs managers and supervisors. Therefore, a PhD in Management can appeal to many different types of people.

Possessing any of the following traits can help you in this path:

• Hardworking
• Research-minded
• Good communicator
• Multitasker
• Fair leader

Courses in management are usually pretty fast-paced, and the subject matter is just as varied as the types of people who pursue the degree. Courses commonly incorporate classes on research skills, human resources management, social sciences, economics, strategic planning, and networking.

You’ll likely be required to research, put together, deliver, and defend a unique dissertation before you can officially earn your degree. Most programs require an exam, as well.

Once you’ve received your PhD in Management, though, potential job paths include management consultant, professor, CEO, entrepreneur, and more in a variety of different fields.

If you’re a nurse practitioner looking to become a better and higher-paid nurse, then you might not want to pursue your PhD in Nursing. Instead, you may want to work toward your Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

However, if you’re a nurse practitioner who wants to transition into pure research, nursing theory, or the education and training of future nurses and nurse practitioners, a PhD may be the right choice for your needs.

Although a PhD in Nursing usually takes fewer years to earn than a DNP and requires almost no clinical work—unlike the DNP—you’ll likely be required to do massive amounts of research into the field of nursing, nursing theory, and nursing education processes.

The goal of most PhD in Nursing programs, in addition to teaching students what they need to know to educate future nurses, is to prepare students for careers in clinical research and education strategy. The aim is for them to be able to improve upon the research processes and education methods to make the training of future nurses more innovative and all-encompassing.

Less often, graduates of this program go on to work in advanced clinical practice or even healthcare administration, but this isn’t the most common career path for people receiving this particular degree. Many of the courses do focus on leadership and best management practices for those who do want to take this route, though.

If your goal is to pursue a PhD in Public Administration, you have a wide variety of programs from which you can choose. Because regulations governing this type of degree program are looser than some other degree programs, each public administration program is structured differently.

However, despite their differences, there are a few things that almost every public administration program, whether online or on-campus, has in common. The admissions requirements for the programs are one example.

While not all programs require you to have a master’s degree before enrolling, most prefer it. For those that don’t require it, you’ll probably still be required to have a bachelor’s degree in either public policy or public administration.

When it comes to the actual curriculum, though, the programs all seem to differ slightly. The classes taught in one program are often different from the classes taught in another program at a different university.

In almost every public administration program you are likely to take courses on public vs. private budgeting, advanced communications, and policymaking. The electives and other classes from program to program can vary, though.

However, despite the courses, the end goals of these programs are all usually very similar: They typically aim to educate doctoral students on the best practices governing the use and overseeing of public assets.

With a PhD in Public Administration, you could potentially find a career as a purchasing agent, budget analyst, human resources manager, auditor, financial manager, or something similar.

Working in public health requires certain specific qualities. For instance, being able to keep calm under pressure is important. Being intelligent, analytical, and comfortable with the research and testing of potentially deadly viruses and diseases are also beneficial traits.

Public health isn’t entirely about diseases and outbreaks, though, no matter how it may seem.

The number one goal of most public health PhD programs is to educate students in all aspects of public health and how to present information and findings in a way the public can easily understand.

Another goal is to give doctoral students the knowledge and skills needed to help improve the overall public health of American citizens.

This includes instructing students on research skills and theory, particularly how to use research and the scientific method to improve upon methods already being used in the public health sector.

It’s also imperative to be able to present crisis-level information to the public in a way that keeps people from panicking.

The most common concentrations for a public health degree program are the following:

• Biostatistics
• Environmental Health
• Health Management and Policies
• Social Sciences
• Chronic Diseases
• The Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases

After graduation, jobs with the CDC and federal, state, and local governments are common. Other potential jobs include environmental scientist, biostatistician, epidemiologist, and safety engineer.

Part-time psychology PhD programs are also very popular choices for PhD seekers. This means there are plenty of online and on-campus programs available from which you can choose.

Although it can often be taken as an on-campus program very easily with excellent results, most people tend to take it online for the simple fact that it’s more convenient. This means there are many accredited online options for psychology.

Although a PhD in Psychology is typically meant for those who want to move out of practicing psychology and into the realms of psychological research and secondary education, some people do take it to become better, higher-paid psychologists. If you’re one of these people, being empathetic, curious, and non-judgmental are three helpful qualities to have to succeed in this career.

If you’re pursuing this degree in order to teach or move into pure research, an analytical mind, enjoyment of research, and a good grasp of the scientific method and process will serve you well. This degree depends heavily on independent research.

You’ll likely have coursework, lectures, and case studies, but most of your time will probably be spent researching your dissertation.

If you’re successful in earning your PhD in Psychology, you may continue to work in the field of psychology as a counselor, psychologist, or something similar, but that isn’t all you might do. You may also teach or work as a psychological researcher.

In addition to part-time PhD in Psychology programs, some universities offer part time PsyD programs . A PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology. This degree may be a good option for practitioners more interested in providing psychological services to clients.

Accreditation for Online Part Time PhD Programs

The specific accreditation for your online program will depend on the degree field. Different fields have different boards certifying them as accredited programs. You should be able to check any program’s accreditation on the school’s website.

Regional accreditation is the most accepted and recognized by employers and other schools, should you want to transfer. National accreditation is acceptable as well, but it only accredits your program within a specific region of the U.S. Regional accreditation is typically recognized throughout the entire U.S., no matter where you relocate.

Schools without accreditation may not be accepted at all, so it is important to check your program’s accreditation status.

Financial Aid for PhD Part Time Students

There are a few main types of financial aid to pursue as a PhD student: loans, grants and fellowships, and assistantships.

Loans are available to both online and on-campus students. Loans have to be repaid, so it is important to use them responsibly and only take out what you need. The best place to start looking for loans is usually the federal government. You can apply for loans by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA .

Fellowships and grants are similar to scholarships and are also available to both online and on-campus students. They’re usually given out to students who need financial aid who have completed applications proving they’re also deserving of the grants.

Many of these may be listed on your school’s specific website. Others can be found on Fastweb and other similar sites.

Finally, assistantships are available only to on-campus students. These are similar to work-study programs. You may work as either a teacher’s assistant, research assistant, or something similar. Working in the lab or as a teacher to undergrads are both typical assistantship duties.

Can You Do PhD Part Time?

Yes, many students work on their PhD part-time. When asking how long does it take to get a doctorate degree , it’s important to keep in mind that there are several programs, both online and on-campus, that allow doctoral students to take part-time PhD classes.

Is PhD Full Time or Part Time?

Depending on your budget and available free time, you can take either full-time or part-time PhD classes. The only difference is that it will take you longer to graduate if you only take part-time classes.

Is a PhD Worth It?

Yes, a PhD is worth it for many professionals. Earning your PhD can help open up new doors of opportunity and advancement in your current field. If you’ve ever considered teaching in your career field, a PhD can also help give you that opportunity.

You can do some research to find an online PhD program or campus-based program that’s right for you.

You now have the option to take PhD classes either online or on campus, and some programs are more affordable than they’ve ever been. Now may be the time for you to take the next step toward an advanced degree.

• Part Time PhDs – Everything You Need To Know
• Types of Doctorates

Introduction

Whilst the core activities of a part time PhD are identical of that to a full time PhD, its arrangement is different. This difference is not only in programme duration but also in fees and funding opportunities. In addition to this, part time study also has different benefits and challenges. Therefore, whilst your personal situation may not be ideal for a full time PhD, it could be perfect for a part time one. We’ve outlined these differences as well as the pros and cons of part time study to help you decide whether it’s right for you.

Why Do a Part Time PhD?

Undertaking a part time PhD can be a great option for you if you fall into one of the four categories:

• Financial – a part time PhD provides the opportunity to earn whilst you study. Although you could secure a full time studentship, the stipend it offers may not be enough in all cases, for example, if you’re financially responsible for multiple family members.
• Career – working individuals, especially those who have already advanced several stages in their career, may opt for a Professional Doctorate. A Professional Doctorate is equivalent to a part time PhD, but focuses on a specific professional practice relevant to the individual. It’s usually undertaken when you wish to apply research skills in a professional environment or become more specialised in your industry.
• Caring obligations – part time study offers a greater deal of flexibility compared to its full time equivalent. This can be desirable in situations where the individual has considerable caring obligations, such as a young family.
• Intensity – many students feel that a pursuing a research degree over a longer period of time drastically lowers the intensity of postgraduate study. Part time PhD hours per week are typically around half that of its full time equivalent. This can come with a wide range of physical and mental health benefits.

Part Time PhD Fees

The average tuition fee for part time PhD study in the UK is approximately £2,356 per academic year for home students, and between £8,000 to £12,500 for international students.

This is typically 50% of the fee charged for an equivalent full time doctorate. However, a handful of universities use a prorated fee of up to 60% so it’s important to check the individual fees for each university you are applying to. These additional costs usually cover the admin/overhead fees associated with your time at the university.

Besides the tuition fee, there are several other costs which you need to account for. You can learn about these costs in our full cost breakdown of UK PhDs .

Part Time PhD Funding and Scholarships

As a part time student, most universities will expect you to fund your own studies. This is because nearly all part-time students will work a paying job alongside their studies which can be used to support their education.

However, you may still apply to department or university funding opportunities such as subject-specific bursaries. Besides this, external bodies such as Research Councils , research charities and industrial institutions also offer grants and PhD studentships for research projects related to their field. It’s worth remembering these opportunities are usually very limited and are awarded based on a candidates strength and not their personal situation.

One benefit of selecting a research project related to your employer is that it opens an additional opportunity for funding. It’s not uncommon for an employer to contribute to an employee’s tuition fee if there is a mutual benefit to be had.

How Long Is a Part Time PhD?

The average duration of part time PhDs in the UK is between 6 to 7 years. This is double a full time doctorate.

Universities also set registration periods which limit the minimum and maximum amount of time you can be enrolled in a course. For doctorates, the minimum duration is usually 4 years and the maximum 8 years.

How Many Working Hours per Week?

You will be expected to work half the number of hours of a full time student. Although full time students are expected to work 35 hours a week, in reality, most will work closer to 40 – 45 hours. Therefore, you’ll be expected to dedicate approximately 20 hours each week towards your degree.

However, you won’t always be able to achieve this many hours due to your other commitments. Therefore, working to a frequent and consistent schedule will be more important. Working on your research in irregular intervals or whenever time permits will be an inefficient approach – it’s far better, plus psychologically easier, to commit to a consistent schedule. Though your PhD supervisor may be able to offer guidance in this regard, ultimately the PhD is yours to shape.

Most part time programmes will also have some doctoral training courses with fixed dates, especially those which are organised by industry experts or visiting lecturers. There may also be time restrictions to be aware of if you are a postgraduate researcher involved in laboratory work, particularly where special equipment is needed as this may be rented by the university research centre and only available during certain times in the year.

Part Time PhDs for International Students

If you are an international student wishing to undertake a part time PhD programme in a foreign country, you will need to meet additional requirements.

For example, to study in the UK, you will need to secure both a work visa and a stable job. This is to prove that you can support yourself throughout the full length of your course. Unfortunately, even if you’re able to secure departmental or external funding, you won’t be able to use this to prove an income. Additionally, an international PhD student in the UK will need to demonstrate English proficiency as part of the application process. These entry requirements apply whether the overseas student is pursuing a PhD part-time or for full-time studies.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Challenges of a Part Time PhD

It’s generally accepted that undertaking a PhD part time is more challenging than undertaking it full time.

Age – although this shouldn’t be a factor, we know it can cause concern for some. If you have already been working for several years, you may find that some of your research colleagues or academic staff members are the same age or younger than yourself. This could cause apprehension or cultural issues if you fail to keep an open mind.

Detachment – as a research student, you’ll often doubt whether you’re working on the right thing or making sufficient progress. You can expect this feeling to be compounded if you’re studying on a part time basis. This is because you’ll have less interaction with your department, peers and supervisor given you won’t always be on campus.

Time management – juggling a career or significant family obligations with the demanding requirements of a doctoral degree can take its toll. Over the 6 to 7 years, you’ll no doubt encounter periods when your external commitments require more of your time, whether its intensive projects or the need for frequent travel associated with part time courses. During these times there is potential for your research to slip, or worse, become an unwanted burden.

Motivation – having to balance your time and focus with your other commitments can make it difficult to immerse yourself in your research. This often results in a lack of ‘momentum’, which coupled with a journey that’s twice as long, increases the risk of your passion fading out. Unfortunately, because of this, many supervisors observe the drop-out rate of part time students to be greater than that of their full time peers. This isn’t due to a lack of dedication or commitment, but due to the individual no longer being able to balance several demanding obligations without jeopardising their mental or physical well-being.

Funding opportunity availability – as mentioned earlier, since part-time applicants are able to work alongside their studies, there are fewer funding opportunities available to them.

Relevancy – as your doctoral study will take 6 to 7 years to complete, there is a risk that your research will no longer be relevant. This could be for several reasons. For example:

• An individual may be working on a research project very similar to yours. Assuming they are working full time and complete their project before you, it could render your project ‘unoriginal’ depending on the amount of overlap between your findings. It is important to discuss this with potential supervisors who may be aware of similar PhD projects being undertaken.
• New technology or knowledge may be developed which renders your original research question obsolete if the premise it was built on becomes ’outdated’.
• New observations could be made which have the potential to jeopardise your work. For example, a new study may be published which identifies significant limitations behind a method outlined in your research proposal. This would cast serious doubt into the validity of your research findings, and in some cases, may require you to start over with an alternative method.

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Doctor of Education : Doctorate Degree in 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.

Questions? Please reach out and we’ll be in touch soon.

Upcoming admissions events.

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.

Doctor of Education Info Session

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

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

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

Interim Department Chair, Advanced Studies in Education Assistant Professor

Keri M. Guilbault, EdD

Associate Professor Interim Director, Doctor of Education Program Faculty Lead, Gifted Education Programs

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

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

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Legal Disclosure

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.

• Best Online Doctoral Programs

Best Online Doctoral Programs Of 2024

Updated: Apr 23, 2024, 1:42pm

The best online doctoral programs offer flexibility and convenience that can make it easier for you to pursue an advanced degree, often while working full time.

Earning a doctorate can help you advance to the highest roles in your field and increase your salary potential. It’s also a chance for you to gain an advanced understanding of impactful issues and develop the skills to generate new ideas, solve problems and create meaningful change.

Below, learn about the best online doctoral programs in a variety of fields, including social work, psychology, education and nursing.

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 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online doctoral degree programs in the U.S. using metrics 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.

We scored schools based on the following data points:

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• Portion 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 and fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

We chose the best schools to display in 10 categories of doctoral degrees.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

• Best Online Colleges With A 100% Acceptance Rate
• Best HBCUs With Online Degrees
• Best Online Colleges
• Best Online Master's Programs
• What Are The Best Online Public Universities

Best Online Doctoral Program Options

Should you enroll in an online ph.d. program or doctorate, accreditation for online doctoral degrees, how to find the right online doctorate for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online ph.d. programs and doctorates.

• Best online Psy.D.: Rivier University
• Best online Doctor of Nursing Practice: University of Central Florida
• Best online Doctor of Business Administration: Walsh College
• Best online doctorate in physical therapy: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
• Best online doctorate in education: Johns Hopkins University
• Best online Ph.D. in organizational leadership: Indiana Wesleyan University
• Best online Ph.D. in counseling: Concordia University-Irvine
• Best online Doctor of Social Work: University of Southern California
• Best online Ph.D. in public administration: West Chester University of Pennsylvania
• Best online doctorate in educational leadership: Fairfield University

Best Online Psy.D.

Rivier university.

Program Tuition Rate

$1,275/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Located in Nashua, New Hampshire, Rivier University offers a hybrid Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) with a limited number of online classes. The American Psychology Association-accredited program focuses on school psychology and counseling and prepares you to work as a psychologist in various environments. You’ll learn clinical diagnosis, assessment, prevention and intervention skills.

Students must attend full time and can work no more than 20 hours per week. It takes a minimum of five years to graduate.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on a set schedule
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $100
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60-130 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Fundamentals of research, group counseling
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, includes a 2,000-hour internship and at least six practicum experiences

Best Doctor of Nursing Practice

University of central florida.

$372/credit (in-state)

At University of Central Florida (UCF), practicing nurses can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The advanced track program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and prepares nurses for clinical leadership roles in the field.

Coursework explores clinical management, communication skills and epidemiology principles. You’ll develop research and practice skills, learn to improve healthcare systems, develop health policy and analyze data to improve individual and population health.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $30
• Degree Credit Requirements: 42 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare systems and policy, nursing environment management
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, includes clinical hours (but all coursework is available online)

Best Doctor of Business Administration

Walsh college.

$1,038/credit

You can earn an online Doctor of Business Administration from Walsh College in Troy, Michigan. The part-time, online program includes asynchronous coursework and real-time Zoom classes, as well as optional opportunities to interact on campus. You can develop advanced business knowledge and skills to become a business leader or consultant.

In addition to coursework, you must pass a preliminary exam and complete a 15-credit dissertation process. The program requires students to graduate within seven years.

• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Foundations for business success, qualitative and exploratory research methods
• In-Person Requirements: No

Best Doctorate in Physical Therapy

Texas tech university health sciences center.

$265/credit (in-state)

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center designed its hybrid Doctor of Science in physical therapy to help practicing physical therapists advance their careers. The post-professional 36-credit program takes four to five years to complete part time.

The flexible format makes it possible for students to keep working while attending school. Learners attend weekend lectures and labs at the Lubbock, Texas, campus. During the week, they supplement their in-person instruction with online assignments.

• Application Fee: $75
• Degree Credit Requirements: 36 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Medical screening for rehabilitation sciences, motor control in orthopedics
• Concentrations Available: Research track, teaching track
• In-Person Requirements: Yes

Best Online Doctorate in Education

Johns hopkins university.

$2,100/credit

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland offers an online Ed.D. The part-time degree takes four years to complete and explores topics like the social determinants of education, entrepreneurship and technology.

You can customize the degree by choosing electives that align with your professional interests and by selecting one or more “areas of interest,” such as urban leadership or digital age learning and educational technology. Applicants need a master’s degree with at least 36 graduate credits to qualify for the program.

• Application Fee: $80
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Approaches to urban education, partnerships and community organizing
• Concentrations Available: Creativity, advanced learning, and twice exceptionality; digital age learning and educational technology; entrepreneurial leadership in education; mind, brain, and teaching; urban leadership

Best Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership

Indiana wesleyan university.

$890/credit

Located in Marion, Indiana Wesleyan University offers an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership that can prepare you to become an effective leader in as few as four years. The program focuses on inclusion, multiculturalism and international perspectives and develops research, presentation and executive skills.

You must attend an in-person residency during the July session, but the rest of the program takes place online and offers flexibility for working professionals. The school’s tuition guarantee locks in your tuition rate when you start the program.

• Application Fee: Free
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced leadership theory, statistical research design
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, includes an in-person residency

Best Online Ph.D. in Counseling

Concordia university – irvine.

$795/credit

Concordia University – Irvine in Irvine, California, is a Christian institution that offers a “biblically informed” online Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision from its Townsend Institute. Designed for licensed mental health professionals, the degree develops advanced skills and prepares you for leadership roles in counseling, teaching and advocacy.

The accelerated program takes three to four years to complete. It requires two in-person residencies and a total of 700 hours of internship and practicum field experiences. In addition to coursework, you must complete a culminating 12-credit dissertation that includes original counseling research and a successful oral defense.

• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced counseling and career theories, advanced multicultural issues in counselor education and supervision
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, requires two in-person residencies, a practicum and an internship

Best Online Doctor of Social Work

University of southern california.

$2,137/credit

University of Southern California ‘s online Doctor of Social Work from the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work emphasizes the importance of scholarship and practice in the field. Created for experienced social work professionals, the program can help you become a leader working toward social change and innovation.

The program offers a seven-semester accelerated track and a standard nine-semester option. In a capstone experience, learners research and create a prototype that addresses a current problem in social work.

• Application Fee: $90
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated, full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Leading public discourse, financial management for social change

Best Online Ph.D. in Public Administration

West chester university of pennsylvania.

$645/credit (in-state)

West Chester University of Pennsylvania ’s online Doctor of Public Administration can prepare you for high-level roles in public affairs and administration. The program is offered by the College of Business and Public Management, accredited by Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and the Department of Public Policy and Administration, accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration.

The curriculum explores strategic management, policy advocacy and decision-making in the public sector. The dissertation allows you to complete an applied research project. You can take electives and choose a concentration from multiple departments, including psychology, graduate social work and criminal justice.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 45 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Strategic public sector management and governance, research design for program and policy evaluation
• Concentrations Available: Options from multiple departments

Best Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership

Fairfield university.

$1,120/credit

At Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut, you can earn an online, low-residency Doctor of Education in educational leadership. The program offers two tracks: teacher leader for certified working educators or higher education administration for higher education professionals.

Students enroll in the cohort-style program in the fall and graduate in three years by taking six credits per semester. Learners can build community during two one-week summer residencies. Applicants need a master’s degree in a relevant field and a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Application Fee: $65
• Degree Credit Requirements: 57
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Action research for educational change, framing and critical analysis of problems of practice
• Concentrations Available: Teacher leader, higher education administration
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, requires two one-week residencies

An online Ph.D. program or doctorate can offer many compelling features for students, but it might not be the right choice for everyone. Consider the questions below when deciding whether to pursue your doctorate online or in person.

• What type of schedule do you need? Online programs typically offer more flexibility that appeals to students who work full time or have personal responsibilities to fit around their school schedule. Online degrees allow learners to pursue higher education without putting their career on hold. This is especially true for programs that offer asynchronous coursework that students complete on their own time.
• What learning style works best for you? Do you work well independently and with a lot of freedom? If so, an online doctorate might be a good fit for you. If you think you’d prefer the camaraderie of an in-person cohort graduate program and structured opportunities to interact with instructors, an on-campus or hybrid program might suit you better.
• How does the program format affect your budget? Online programs can help you save on tuition, housing and transportation costs. For example, many public schools allow you to pay the same tuition, regardless of where you live. However, you might miss funding opportunities typically reserved for on-campus students, such as graduate teaching assistantships, research assistantships and fellowships.

The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) approve accrediting agencies that give schools institutional accreditation in the U.S.

Institutional accreditation means that a university has met minimum quality requirements related to its academics, financial management, faculty and staff, and student resources and services. To qualify for federal financial aid, you must attend an accredited college.

Programmatic accreditation is a separate process that gives special recognition to individual degrees, programs or departments within a university. Depending on your field, you might need a programmatically accredited degree to get a job or qualify for professional licenses or certifications.

You can search for a prospective school’s accreditation status on CHEA’s website .

Consider Your Future Goals

An online doctorate has the potential to help you achieve your career aspirations. However, not every program in your field will necessarily align with your goals. Before you choose an online doctorate program, think about your post-graduation plans.

For example, some online doctorate programs require professional experience through an internship or a practicum. This type of hands-on learning can help you develop your expertise and professional network. But these experiences usually take place in person and can be hard to fit into your schedule if you’re working full time.

You should also consider if you need a specific license or certification to get the job you want. If so, research the credential’s requirements to learn if your degree needs to meet certain criteria. For example, you may need to complete an accredited program or complete supervised clinical hours.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Tuition rates for online doctoral programs in our guide vary significantly, from $265 to $2,137 per credit. Most programs required 42 to 60 credits, with some exceptions. In total, the degrees ranked on our list cost between $9,540 and $113,400.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics , grad students at private, nonprofit schools paid an average tuition of $20,408 in 2022–23, while public school tuition cost $11,554 per year. Doctorate programs typically take at least three years to complete, putting total costs between $34,662 and $61,224.

Find funding for your online Ph.D. by filling out the FAFSA®, which can connect you with scholarships, grants and student loans. Many schools also provide funding to graduate students through scholarships, grants and fellowships.

Can you do a Ph.D. fully online?

Yes, many schools offer fully online Ph.D. programs. However, depending on the program and the field of study, you may need to complete on-campus residencies or field experiences like internships or practicums that take place in person.

What is the fastest Ph.D. to get online?

Program length for online Ph.D. programs varies depending on your field of study. You might be able to find some accelerated online Ph.D. programs that you can finish in less than two years. However, the best online doctoral programs on our list take at least three years to complete.

Are online doctoral degrees respected?

An online doctoral degree from an accredited university can provide the same rigorous education and training as a comparable on-campus program. If you’re concerned about whether or not your degree will be respected, consider doing some research about the way that your field or profession tends to view online doctoral degrees.

What is the best online school for a Ph.D.?

The best online school for a Ph.D. depends on your field of study, personal interests and career goals. Make sure that any prospective online school is institutionally accredited. Depending on the degree you want to pursue, it might also be important to find a program with separate programmatic accreditation.

Liz Simmons has been writing for various online publications about career development, higher education and college affordability for nearly a decade. Her articles demystify the college application process and help prospective students figure out how to choose a major or career path.

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Comparing Full-Time, Part-Time and Online PhD Programs

The pursuit of a PhD is a significant academic and professional endeavour. It represents a commitment to in-depth research, a mastery of a subject, and a contribution to the ever-expanding body of knowledge in one’s field. But, as with any monumental journey, the path to a Ph.D. is not one-size-fits-all. It is here that the pivotal decision emerges: How should you undertake this quest?

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving world of education, there is no shortage of choices. You find yourself at a crossroads, contemplating full-time, part-time, or online Ph.D. programs. Each comes with its own set of promises, advantages, and challenges, making the decision not just significant but also complex.

We understand the weight of this choice, and that’s why we’ve crafted this comprehensive guide to assist you in making an informed decision. Our aim is to help you navigate the intricate landscape of Ph.D. programs by examining the three primary roads you can take: the full-time, the part-time, and the online.

Through this exploration, you will find that no one option reigns supreme. The “better” choice depends not only on the nature of your academic and professional aspirations but also on your personal circumstances. This journey, much like a Ph.D. itself, is highly individual. So, without further ado, let’s begin your journey of self-discovery and decision-making, leading you towards the PhD path that best aligns with your unique goals and dreams.

Introduction

Benefits of full-time phd programs:, challenges of full-time phd programs:, advantages of part-time phd programs:, drawbacks of part-time phd programs:, benefits of online phd programs:, concerns of online phd programs:, factors to consider when choosing phd program, comparison of full-time, part-time, and online phd programs, popular universities offering full-time, part-time and online phd programs.

Pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is more than an academic endeavour; it’s a transformative journey that demands rigorous research, scholarly dedication, and a profound contribution to the world of knowledge. As you stand on the precipice of this educational odyssey, you’re confronted with a pivotal decision that will shape your future—how to embark on this quest for higher learning.

The significance of selecting the right path cannot be overstated. It’s akin to choosing the vehicle for a cross-country journey. Will you opt for the express train, the scenic route, or perhaps the more versatile, off-road terrain? In Ph.D. programs, these choices manifest as full-time, part-time, and online options.

Full-time PhD programs, marked by their immersive nature, promise an intensive experience where research and scholarship reign supreme. In contrast, part-time PhD programs offer a flexible approach for those seeking to harmonize their academic ambitions with professional responsibilities. And then, there are online Ph.D. programs, harnessing the power of technology to bring the Ph.D. journey to your doorstep.

In this blog post, we’ll be your guide, shedding light on the intricacies of these academic paths. We’ll delve into the pros and cons of each, equipping you with the knowledge you need to navigate your way. Just as every traveller has a unique destination in mind, your goals, aspirations, and circumstances will determine which path is right for you. So, let’s begin this expedition towards making an informed and astute choice that will set the course for your academic and professional future.

I have written several articles on PhD programs. These articles include PhD Regisration, presentations, handling doctoral committee , applying for grants and writing PhD thesis etc. Please visit my articles HERE

Full-Time PhD Programs

A full-time PhD program is a comprehensive academic journey that often requires your undivided attention. It typically involves being on campus or closely engaged with your academic institution. Here, your primary focus is on research, coursework, and immersion in the academic environment.

• Immersive Research Opportunities: Full-time PhD programs offer an unparalleled level of immersion in your research. You’re deeply integrated into your academic department, collaborating closely with faculty and peers. This environment provides extensive access to resources, libraries, laboratories, and academic events that can enrich your research.
• Potential Funding and Stipends: Many full-time PhD students receive financial support in the form of research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or scholarships. This funding not only covers tuition but also provides a stipend for living expenses. It can be a significant advantage if you’re looking to focus solely on your research without the financial burden.
• Intense Time Commitment: One of the most prominent challenges of full-time PhD programs is the intense time commitment. Your days are often filled with research, coursework, and academic responsibilities. Balancing your personal life and other commitments can be challenging, and this intensity can lead to burnout if not managed well.
• Financial Considerations: While full-time Ph.D. programs may offer funding, there’s still a financial aspect to consider. Your stipend may cover basic expenses, but the cost of living can vary based on your location and lifestyle. Some students may need to secure additional funding or manage their finances carefully.

Example: Sarah’s journey toward a PhD in Astrophysics represents the quintessential full-time PhD experience. She’s based on campus, working closely with her advisor and research team. This immersive environment provides her with unique access to cutting-edge telescopes, observatories, and a vibrant community of fellow astrophysicists. Plus, she secured a research assistantship, allowing her to pursue her passion without worrying about tuition or basic living expenses. However, the demanding nature of her program means long hours in the lab and late nights studying. Managing her time is crucial as she works diligently to advance our understanding of the cosmos.

Part-Time PhD Programs

Define part-time PhD programs and who they are suitable for: Part-time PhD programs are designed to accommodate individuals with professional or personal commitments that prevent them from pursuing a full-time, on-campus PhD. These programs allow students to balance academic pursuits with their existing responsibilities, making them particularly suitable for working professionals, parents, or those who cannot relocate.

• Flexibility for Working Professionals: Part-time Ph.D. programs offer the flexibility to continue working while pursuing a doctoral degree. This can be advantageous for those who wish to apply their research directly in their current job or maintain a source of income.
• Ability to Gain Practical Experience: Students in part-time programs often have the opportunity to apply their research in real-world settings. This practical experience can be a significant asset, as it allows them to immediately see the impact of their research in their respective fields.
• Longer Time to Completion: One of the primary drawbacks of part-time PhD programs is the extended time it takes to complete the degree. Because students are juggling other responsibilities, they typically take longer to finish their coursework and research. This longer timeline can be a deterrent for those seeking a quicker route to their Ph.D.
• Limited Research Opportunities: While part-time students can gain practical experience, they may have limited access to extensive research facilities and resources compared to full-time students. This could impact the depth and breadth of their research, depending on their field of study.

Example: Meet John, a dedicated engineer with a passion for sustainable energy solutions. He chose to pursue a part-time PhD in Environmental Engineering to align his academic aspirations with his full-time job at a renewable energy company. John’s program allows him to attend evening classes and conduct research on weekends, fitting his schedule seamlessly. The flexibility of his program enables him to simultaneously gain practical experience by implementing innovative solutions in his workplace. However, John is well aware that his part-time commitment means a longer journey to earning his Ph.D. Nonetheless, he believes that the opportunity to apply his research directly in the field is a trade-off well worth making.

Online PhD Programs

Describe online PhD programs and their characteristics: Online PhD programs are a modern alternative to traditional on-campus education. They leverage digital technologies to deliver education remotely. Students in online Ph.D. programs typically have the flexibility to study from anywhere, using web-based platforms and resources.

• Remote Study Flexibility: Online Ph.D. programs provide unparalleled flexibility. Students can access course materials, lectures, and assignments from the comfort of their homes or any location with an internet connection. This eliminates geographical constraints and allows students to study at their own pace.
• Balancing Work and Education: Online Ph.D. programs are well-suited for working professionals who want to continue their careers while pursuing advanced degrees. The flexibility of these programs allows individuals to balance work and education, potentially advancing in their careers while studying.
• Self-Discipline and Time Management: Online Ph.D. programs demand a high level of self-discipline and time management. With fewer structured class hours, students must independently structure their study schedules. This can be a challenge for those who require a more structured learning environment.
• Variation in Research Opportunities: The availability of research opportunities can vary in online programs. Some disciplines require hands-on, laboratory-based research, which may be challenging to conduct remotely. Students pursuing research-intensive fields may face limitations in the scope of their studies.

Example: Meet Maria, a marketing professional with a passion for consumer behavior analysis. Maria chose to pursue an online Ph.D. in Marketing to accommodate her career and family responsibilities. The program allows her to attend virtual lectures, participate in online discussions, and complete assignments at her convenience. This flexibility ensures that she can continue her career while advancing her academic pursuits. However, Maria acknowledges that self-discipline and effective time management are essential to thrive in her online program. She also recognizes that her research focuses more on data analysis and consumer surveys, as hands-on research opportunities in a traditional laboratory setting would be challenging to replicate online. Nonetheless, Maria appreciates the online program’s adaptability to her unique life circumstances and goals.

• Before embarking on a PhD journey, it’s crucial to reflect on your academic and career aspirations. What are your long-term goals? Consider whether a full-time, part-time, or online program aligns better with these objectives. For example, if your aim is to become a university professor, a full-time program with extensive research opportunities might be the way to go.
• Your financial situation plays a significant role in your choice. Assess your ability to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs. Investigate funding options such as scholarships, assistantships, or part-time work opportunities in your chosen program.
• Your work experience and personal circumstances are key considerations. If you have a career that you want to continue, part-time or online programs can be more accommodating. Conversely, if you’re transitioning directly from a bachelor’s or master’s program, a full-time Ph.D. might be a better fit.
• Consider your time management and self-discipline skills. Full-time programs are highly structured, while part-time and online programs require more self-motivation. Reflect on your ability to manage your time effectively and remain dedicated to your studies.
• Thoroughly research the quality and recognition of the programs you’re interested in. Investigate factors such as faculty expertise, research facilities, alumni success, and program accreditation. Ensure that the program you choose aligns with your academic and career ambitions.

Example: Take Mark, for instance, a recent master’s graduate aspiring to become a clinical psychologist. His ambition is to conduct research in the field while also maintaining part-time work to support his family. After assessing his goals and financial situation, Mark decides that a part-time PhD program in Clinical Psychology is the best option. This choice accommodates his career aspirations and allows him to provide for his family. However, Mark recognizes that he’ll need to enhance his time management and self-discipline skills to excel in a part-time program. He also thoroughly researched programs, ensuring that he selected one recognized for its strong faculty and clinical research opportunities. This comprehensive evaluation led him to the most suitable path for his unique circumstances and objectives.

Tabular format to compare full-time, part-time, and online PhD programs based on key factors:

This table provides a comparative overview of the three options based on various factors, allowing individuals to assess which aligns best with their specific goals and circumstances.

To find detailed information about specific programs at these universities, you can search for the universities online or visit their official websites:

Please note that the availability of specific programs may change over time, so it’s important to verify the latest information on each university’s official website.

In the quest for a Ph.D., choosing the right path is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your academic and professional future. As we’ve explored, the options are diverse, each offering its own set of advantages and challenges. Full-time programs immerse you in the world of academia, part-time programs cater to those juggling responsibilities, and online programs provide unprecedented flexibility.

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which is “better.” Your academic and career goals, financial situation, work experience, personal circumstances, time management, and the quality of the program all play a role in your decision.

What’s paramount is making an informed choice that aligns with your unique aspirations. Whether you’re embarking on a full-time research journey, harnessing the flexibility of a part-time program, or embracing the digital realm of online education, your choice is a reflection of your dedication to knowledge and advancement.

Whichever path you choose, may your PhD journey be one of passion, perseverance, and the fulfilment of your academic dreams. Remember, this is your odyssey, and the destination is yours to define.

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Students in Harvard Griffin GSAS PhD programs are enrolled full time.

Students in Harvard Griffin GSAS master's programs, in limited circumstances, may be eligible to explore part-time enrollment. A degree candidate who wishes to enroll as a part-time student must complete an application for part-time study and submit it to the Office of Academic Programs for approval. See the academic calendar for deadlines.

• Before applying for part-time study, students should discuss their plans with their advisor and with their  financial aid officer .

Part-time study may be approved if the student:

• needs to care for small children at home
• experiences personal ill health or severe illness of other family members
• is under extreme financial strain and has dependents
• is a master’s student in their final term of enrollment.

Students who are enrolled in fewer than 16 credits but do not have an approved petition for part-time study, may be considered under-enrolled and are at risk of being placed on involuntary leave for failure to register. 

Tuition and Financial Aid

Part-time students are charged the appropriate per-course rate until the equivalent of two years of full tuition has been paid. Thereafter, they register and are charged reduced tuition as full-time students. They must have paid a minimum total of two years of full tuition and two years of reduced tuition prior to receipt of the PhD unless the degree was completed in fewer than four years from initial registration. If a student who has been part-time completes the PhD in fewer than four years, the student will be charged what a full-time student would have paid over the same period of time. Current tuition and health fee rates for all programs, including the per-course rates for part-time students, can be found on the Financial Aid section of the Harvard Griffin GSAS Website under Cost of Attendance .

International Students

Foreign nationals with student visas who are not officially permanent residents of the United States may register for part-time study if they:

• are in their final term of enrollment
• have three or fewer courses remaining.

The application must be signed by the Harvard International Office .

Health Insurance

According to Massachusetts law, part-time students must participate in a qualifying student health insurance program or in a health plan of comparable coverage. All Harvard students are automatically enrolled in the Harvard University Student Health Program (HUSHP) and fees are applied to their student account.

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• PhD Programs

Executive PhD in Business

Fall 2025 enrollment.

The application process for our next enrollment cycle will open in early October. Join us at our next information session on September 13 to hear directly from program director, Dr. Jill Brown about this valuable credential and how it will enhance your career options.

Register for Info Session

A part-time, accelerated PhD program that combines real-world business with world-class research

Today's business executives face unprecedented challenges that require uncommon leadership and the ability to gain deep insight into the issues that define the global economy.

Bentley's part-time Executive PhD in Business delivers an intellectually rigorous and critically relevant academic opportunity for seasoned professionals. The program develops a new breed of high-achieving industry leaders who combine business acumen with a research-driven mindset. Graduates will earn more than a valuable credential. They will gain the rare ability to identify the most consequential of challenges, the analytical toolset to reach data-driven decisions, and the insights to manage change in any business or organization. 

Program Attributes

Earn your PhD on a schedule that allows you to maintain your high-powered career and busy life.

Accelerated

Graduate in three years, far faster than traditional five-year PhD programs.

Virtual classes can be taken from home, the office, or anywhere you want. Face-to-face sessions bring students and faculty together twice each semester.

Cohort-Based

Grow your network by studying with the same dedicated group of peer business leaders over the course of your program.

Learn more and take the next step

Why an executive phd.

Relevancy and Rigor

Bentley's Executive PhD provides an unparalleled opportunity to access the doctoral study of business, separating accomplished professionals and strong performers from their peers. The Executive PhD program offers industry leaders access to an enriching academic experience, provides the  tools and skills to claim greater agency over future opportunities, dedicates meaningful time to reengage in learning and researching, and culminates with the unique opportunity to create new knowledge through a formal dissertation. 

Growth and Opportunity

Graduates will leave Bentley with an enhanced ability to identify and address the most consequential of challenges, the analytical skills that will help executives to quickly reach informed decisions, and the advanced management skills needed to effectively implement critical change in an evolving, dynamic, global organization .

Choose an Area of Focus

The challenges facing business executives today are interdisciplinary in nature and require a broad range of skills and human understanding to manage change. This program emphasizes an understanding of organizational behavior to help you become a transformational leader equipped to handle complex business situations. Whether it's sustainability, climate change, ethics, social auditing or diversity equity and inclusion, you will engage in research to help solve problems around contemporary leadership issues.

Business Analytics

The increased use of advanced analytical tools and the volume of available data require business executives to embrace new ways to improve decision making. In this program, PhD students will explore the human side of big data and learn the technical, analytical and modeling skills required to solve some of them most complex problems facing society today. The program will make strategic use of Bentley's Center for Analytics and Data Science.

Experience Design

This fast-growing discipline explores and researches the ethics, aesthetics and design of products or services from a human perspective. Experience design practitioners with doctoral degrees are in high demand and the credential has become mandatory for certain leadership roles in design and research. Students focusing in this area will benefit from Bentley's national reputation in this field and our state-of-the-art  User Experience Center , Haptics Lab and Virtual and Augmented Reality Lab.

Program Structure

Program Information and Details

The Executive PhD in Business is a part-time, accelerated and flexible three-year program that will allow you to earn a doctorate while continuing to grow your career. 

To learn details of the program, view our curriculum map, and learn about the program's three focus areas (Leadership, Business Analytics, and Experience Design), please visit the curriculum page .

  Learn More about the Curriculum and Focus Areas

Admission Requirements

• Master’s degree required
• Minimum eight years work experience
• Demonstrated leadership experience in business

Application Requirements (Application Opens on October 7, 2024)

• All academic transcripts
• GMAT or GRE scores (optional)
• Personal statement
• Two letters of recommendation
• Application fee ($150)

Following the initial application:

• Finalists will be invited to participate in a research webinar and asked to submit an 8 to 10 page research proposal. This research proposal will serve as an early preview of a dissertation topic.

Application Deadlines

• Early admission deadline of January 6, 2025
• Final deadline of March 17, 2025
• Finalists will be notified of advancing to the next round on a rolling basis.
• The program is designed to be completed in three years over the course of nine semesters. The total cost of the three-year program is $153,000, or $17,000 per semester.
• The program cost includes tuition, books and software.
• Students are responsible for the cost of travel and lodging associated with attending the required immersion weekends. 

Learn more about Tuition and Fees, Refund Policy, Payment and Financing Options

How does this program differ from Bentley’s PhD in Business and PhD in Accounting?   This program allows students to maintain their career while earning their PhD in a flexible, accelerated, part-time format. 

What are the on-campus requirements? During the first year of the program there is an orientation plus three on-campus immersions (Friday/Saturday) during both the fall and spring semesters. During the summer semester there are two immersions (Friday/Saturday).  During the second year of the program there are three immersions (Friday/Saturday) during both the fall and spring semesters, and two immersions during summer term.

How do I find a faculty adviser? Students will be matched with a faculty advisor during the admissions process and will begin meeting with their advisors during the first semester.

How do the three focus areas work with the PhD? Students will pick one of these areas (Leadership, Business Analytics, Experience Design) for course work and research leading toward their dissertation. 

What is the deadline to apply?  The application process for this program is extremely  competitive. We encourage all students to complete their application as early as possible. The early admission application deadline is January 6, 2025. All other applications are due by March 17, 2025.

Why an Executive PhD in Business?

Program Director Jill Brown covers some of the ways an Executive PhD could help advance students in their careers and academic pursuits. 

Work With World-Class Experts

Dr. William Gribbons

Teaching interests include: Human Factors; Product Strategy and Innovation; Design Ethics  

Dr. Tatiana Manolova

Teaching interests include: Competitive Strategy; Global Strategy; International Entrepreneurship

Dr. Mingfei Li

Teaching interests include: Applied Statistics; Applied Game Theory; Health and Business Analysis

for more information

Jill A. Brown (PhD, University of Georgia) is the Hieken Professor of Business Ethics and Professor of management at Bentley University. Her scholarly interests include ethics, corporate social responsibility, social entrepreneurship, corporate governance and strategic leadership. Prior to her career in academia, Brown was a commercial banker and consultant.

Please email me to schedule a one-on-one meeting .

Request Information

Learn more about our executive phd program.

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Doctor of Philosophy Teaching and Learning

Our doctorate aims to prepare first-rate scholars and practitioners. Your pathway is highly customizable, so you can tailor your degree to your specific career goals and interests in areas such as history, social studies, and global education; literacy education; mathematics education; early childhood and childhood education; science and environmental education; urban education; or special education.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

Doctor of Philosophy in Teaching and Learning

How You’ll Learn 

Because the development and completion of a dissertation depends on intensely individual interest and work, this PhD emphasizes the individual tailoring of your degree from the very beginning. We aim to suit the unique interests and experiences that you bring to the program and develop during your course of study.

Concentrations

Early Childhood and Childhood Education

Become a researcher or teacher educator dedicated to understanding children’s development and learning, and supporting them in their education.

History, Social Studies, and Global Education

Advance your knowledge and work with faculty members to conduct research and develop curricula that promote civic engagement.

Literacy Education

Work closely with faculty members to develop your research skills in language and literacy development, and apply that research to improve literacy instruction.

Mathematics Education

Learn strategies for designing and analyzing research studies in mathematics education while working closely with faculty on all aspects of the research process.

Science and Environmental Education

Develop your skills in research in science and environmental education and learn about current science pedagogy, teacher education, technology, and more.

Special Education

Develop expertise in special education policy, research, and practices as you collaborate with our faculty.

Urban Education

Advance your knowledge, work with faculty on research, and prepare to be an educational leader committed to scholarship and action in urban educational settings.

Online Info Session

In this session, NYU faculty share information about the PhD programs in the department of Teaching & Learning, including the PhD in Teaching & Learning, PhD in English Education, PhD in Bilingual Education, and PhD in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Faculty provide an overview of the programs and answer questions from potential applicants.  

Funding for Full-Time PhD Students

NYU Steinhardt offers a competitive funding package for PhD students who study full time.  Learn more about our funding opportunities .

Questions 

If you have any additional questions about our degree, please feel free to contact Olivia O'Leary at [email protected] .

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Advance your personal and professional journey – apply to join our community of students.

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Johns Hopkins offers part-time and non-degree programs in all nine of its academic divisions, attracting students from all over the world.

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Advanced Academic Programs  offers part-time graduate degree and certificate programs for adults seeking professional and personal enrichment. Classes are held at two campus locations—Homewood and in Washington, D.C.—and also online.

Odyssey , a non-credit liberal arts program, offers a wide selection of courses, workshops, and lecture series delivered by Johns Hopkins faculty and community experts. Course topics include science, art, writing, and photography.

Engineering for Professionals , one of the largest continuing engineering education programs in the U.S., offers engineering and applied science graduate programs in 20 disciplines, with convenient class times on weekday evenings and Saturdays.

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Part-Time Enrollment

Use this form to request part-time status for a current academic quarter or future quarters, or to extend part-time status.

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Students enrolled in full-time degree programs can request part-time status as early as their first quarter of graduate study.

Will graduate students enrolling in 6 units or fewer be automatically eligible for reduced tuition and fees?

No, students wishing to access reduce tuition and fees must submit a Reduced Fee request form on the Registrar’s website. If the Graduate Division approves the request, the student’s records will be updated to ensure their tuition and fees are assessed appropriately, based on the formula set out in the Policy Overview Section above.

Can graduate students hold academic appointments (TA, GSR, Reader, or Tutor) while registered part-time? As noted above, part-time graduate students will be eligible for appointments to salary titles requiring regular registration in graduate status, such as Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant. The total of any and all appointments during a term will be limited to no more than one-half (25%) the maximum appointment available to full-time students. If approved for part-time status, students who hold 50% appointments should contact their department to request a reduction in time.

I am a graduate student who was not registered last quarter and was not on an official Leave of Absence. May I apply for part-time enrollment when I return?

Given your lapsed status, you must first apply for readmission. Please coordinate with your department to initiate the application. We will accept part-time status requests during the quarter you are readmitted as a graduate student.

How do I cancel my part-time status as a graduate student?

Please submit a letter stating you are cancelling part-time status because you are planning to enroll in six units or more during the approval period. You may email [email protected] . Following the cancellation, you will be re-assessed for full-tuition and fees.

Master of Public Health Generalist (online)

The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree program provides students with a breadth of knowledge, subject-specific expertise, specialized skills, and a powerful global network. MPH students benefit from an innovative curriculum that employs unique educational experiences beyond the virtual classroom. The MPH program is designed to teach analytical and quantitative methods, as well as cultivate problem-solving skills and the application of public health training in real-world situations.  

The Master of Public Health (MPH) Generalist field of study is a part-time, online program designed for working professionals with broad public health interests.  

• Abbreviation : MPH-GEN  
• Degree format : Online  
• Time commitment : Part-time  
• Average program length : 2 years part-time
• Weekly expectations : Average 15–20 hours/week of work, involving asynchronous lectures, individual and group projects, and homework assignments  
• Estimated cohort size : 50 students  
• Start term : Fall  
• The MPH degree is the most widely recognized professional credential for leadership in public health.  
• Online asynchronous courses allow students to attend weekly classes on their own schedule. Complemented with optional synchronous sessions, students are encouraged to learn from each other’s real-time work experiences and apply concepts.  
• Attracting professionals from all over the world, each cohort provides a diverse mixture of domestic and international students working in an array of industries.  
• Learn from the same Harvard Chan faculty that teach residential programs. The modality of the program may be different, but the quality of learning is just the same.  
• Under a combination of group and individualized mentorship by Harvard faculty members, each student designs and implements a practicum proposal to gain field-based learning. The practicum provides students with the opportunity to apply their skills, address a health-related issue of interest, and showcase what they learned.

Graduates of the MPH Generalist program will receive a well-rounded public health education, preparing them to succeed within their current professional role or progress their career in the following fields:  

• Academic medicine  
• Biotech/pharma  
• Consulting  
• Government  
• Health care management  
• Hospital/health care delivery  
• Non-profit/Non-government organizations  
• Other/for-profit  
• Private practice  
• Private sector institutions  
• Public and private health agencies  
• University/research  

Admission information

Eligibility requirements.

In general, applicants for the MPH Generalist must have one of the following:  

• A bachelor’s degree plus five or more years of relevant health experience.   
• A master’s degree in a health-related field—for example, MSN, MSW, MBA (the strongest applicants will have at least two years of relevant work experience following completion of the degree).  
• A prior doctoral degree—for example, MD, DO, DMD, DDS, PhD, SD, JD—or equivalent.  

Current medical and dental students are not eligible for the MPH Generalist program.  

Application requirements

All applications must be submitted through SOPHAS – the centralized application for schools and programs of public health . In addition to the application, applicants must submit:

• Statement of purpose and objectives
• Official test scores ( optional with guidance )
• Three letters of reference
• Resumé/curriculum vitae
• Post-secondary transcripts or mark sheets (World Education Services credential evaluation for applicants with degrees from outside of the United States.)
• English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo English Test), if applicable

Learn more about the application process .

Application deadline

Applicants may apply to only one degree program for either full- or part-time status. Applications are reviewed in their entirety and decisions are released via email in late February/early March. Decisions are not released until all application components are received.

For more information

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Important Facts

Ask any Question - CV Forum

Pros & Cons: Full Time vs. Part Time PhD - Which Is Better?

Kopal Srivastava Aug 23, 2024 1K Reads

Studying for a PhD full-time pays you more. It allows you to focus more on your research, and with more time, libraries, research labs, and easier access to university resources such as faculty support, students can always align their programs with university activity variety and attend seminars and workshops that provide them with a learning experience.

In contrast, part-time students are more likely to face distractions from work or other responsibilities, which can lead to delays in their progress and thesis completion. One of the main advantages of a full-time PhD is that a Part-time PhD takes seven years whereas Full-time PhD only takes 3-5 years to complete it.

This early completion allows full-time PhD holders to enter the workforce earlier, find employment, and advance their careers faster. Their benefits include the prestigious title of "Dr," the possibility of higher salaries, and prior opportunities in selected fields.

Overall, a full-time PhD program provides a focused and efficient path to academic and professional success.  This guide will help you look at the good and bad points of both options, so you can pick the one that fits your aims and how you live best.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time PhD: Which One Is Right for Me?

Going back to school when you're already working is a big choice if you're thinking about a PhD. You've got to figure out how you'll juggle your time and job. The key difference between full-time and part-time PhD programs? It's how long it takes to finish. The coursework and what you need to do are often the same.

What is the Difference between a Full-time PhD and a Part-time PhD Program? 

The main difference between part-time and full-time PhD programs is how long it takes to finish the degree. Both need the same research and study. Still, the experience can change a lot:

Full-time PhD students can spend more time on their studies and research.Part-time students might have other things to do like work or family that compete with their coursework. Money help chances can change based on whether you work full-time or part-time.

Full-time students might get to dive deeper into their research. Picking the best program depends on how well you can balance your school with other parts of your life. Let's look at what full-time and part-time PhD programs give you to help you make a smart choice.

Everything about a Full-Time PhD Program?

A full-time PhD program is like a full-time program, in which you have to visit college daily and you can even choose a specialization of your choice, expanding your understanding of a particular subject matter and schooling you in studies and collaboration competencies. Here's an average definition of what to anticipate:

• Coursework: You'll begin with graduate publications in your field, including studies methods and scholarly writing, to build your expertise base and prepare for the writing you'll do later.
• Research: Outside of training, you'll spend loads of time studying your dissertation, the using the abilities discovered in coursework to discover sources, conduct experiments, or other tasks.
• Meetings: Regular meetings together with your PhD manager are important. These periods are for discussing your development, reviewing research, and getting recommendations.
• Teaching or Fieldwork: Depending on your software, you are probably required to train instructions, entire an internship, or do fieldwork.
• Writing the Dissertation: The dissertation is the culmination of your paintings, combining all of your research, evaluation, and writing. It can take years to finish.
• Defending the Dissertation: After completing your dissertation, you may guard it in an oral exam, supplying your studies and answering questions from a committee. They decide if you've surpassed or if changes are wished.After effectively protecting your dissertation and getting committee approval, you may publish the final version and obtain your diploma.

Course Work 

Each PhD program varies depending on your field and institution or university, but all student information should always be as follows.

• Year 1: You will have a full semester of academic work, including core courses in your field and courses in general research design and methods.
• Year 2: This year includes semesters of study, including further research and development of your thesis proposal.
• Year 3: As you begin researching and writing your dissertation, your course load decreases. If necessary, you may participate in teaching, clinical, or laboratory work.
• Fourth-year and above: You may have a few classes left, but you spend most of your time researching and writing until you finish your thesis.

Commitment 

A complete-time PhD program is in-depth, requiring about 35 to 40 hours in line per week, similar to a complete-time process. Most of the time in the first two years may be spent inside the lecture room. After that, you'll give attention to researching, writing, and finishing other crucial obligations.

What is the Duration?

In 2020, there were 55,283 completed PhDs in the U.S., with an average completion time of 5.8 years, according to the National Science Foundation. Most PhD programs take at least 4 years, but it can take longer, even for full-time students.

How long it takes to finish depends on factors like:

• Struggles with research
• Writing delays
• Extensive revisions needed for your dissertation
• Life circumstances affecting your studies

Remember, taking longer to finish doesn’t lessen your achievement. If you need extra time or revisions, don’t get discouraged.

A Full-Time PhD Program Could Be a Good Fit If..

Full-time PhD programs are a big time commitment. They might be ideal for students who:

You can start full-time and switch to part-time later if your situation changes.

Everything About A Part-Time PhD Program? 

Part-time PhD programs offer students more flexibility. Each student's experience may differ, but common traits include:

• More flexible coursework
• Spread-out costs, reducing the immediate financial burden
• Less disruption to other life commitments
• More time for research

In a part-time program, you have more time for other obligations, but it means being a student for a longer period. The workload is the same as in a full-time program, just spread over more years.

Key differences include:

• Classroom time: You take the same classes but may take three or four years to complete core work instead of one or two.
• Weekly hours: Part-time students spend 15 to 20 hours per week on schoolwork, though this can vary.
• Years to complete: Completion time can range from 5 to 10 years or more.

Part-time PhD programs are variable, especially in terms of how long they take to complete.

Duration of Completion of Part-Time PhD Program

A part-time PhD usually lasts between five and eight years, but this time depends on how much time the university gives you and how much work you put in.

You may end up with more time than you originally thought sooner, or your work and life balance may get in the way So it takes longer.A full-time PhD usually takes three to four years. However, the title period can actually be extended up to four years.

How many hours a week is a part-time PhD?

A part-time PhD usually takes five to eight years, depending on the university's timeline and your effort. You might finish sooner if you have more time than expected, or it might take longer if work and life balance are challenging.

A full-time PhD takes three to four years. However, the thesis deadline can sometimes be extended for up to four years.

A Part-Time PhD Program Might Be Right For You If…

Many students find the flexibility of a part-time PhD program beneficial. You might be a good fit if you:

You can start slowly and gradually take on more work as your circumstances allow.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Studying A Full-Time Ph.D. program?

Full-time Ph.D. It usually takes three to five years, with lots of research and reading. It offers a full-time Ph.D. The program:

• Research and in-depth understanding: Full-time PhD Students can spend more time researching, which gives them a deeper understanding of the subject. This immersion helps them develop specialized knowledge and skills.
• Frequency of contact with faculty: Being on campus full-time means that students can have frequent contact with their faculty and mentors. This constant interaction provides opportunities to ask questions, seek guidance, and clarify doubts, enhancing the learning experience.
• Access to University Facilities: Full-time students have excellent university facilities such as laboratories and libraries. This process is important for conducting research, obtaining research materials, and other resources needed to learn.
• Early graduation: Always PhD The program can be completed sooner than half-time. Students can focus solely on their studies and may graduate in three to five years.
• Degree value increases: Full-time PhD It seems more radical and comprehensive. This concept can add value to a degree, making it more attractive to employers and educational institutions.

While a full-time Ph.D. While this program has many benefits, it also comes with some demanding situations:

• Lost wages: Being a complete-time student often costs you money because you will be focusing on your research more and would not earn a penny, which can price cash. This can be difficult, in particular when you have financial obligations.
• Duration: Full-time Ph.D. A massive time dedication is needed. You spend hours gaining knowledge of, reading and writing, which can be annoying and leave little time for other things.
• High fees: The costs associated with a complete-time PhD, which include lessons, books, and living prices, can upload up. Without consistent profits, managing those charges may be tough and motive economic stress.
• Emotional challenges: Full-time Ph.D. Sometimes emotions of loneliness, anxiety, and despair get up. Seeing buddies develop their careers while you have a look at them can be hard and have an effect on your intellectual well-being. It is important to be prepared for these emotional ups and downs and try to find help when needed.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Studying A Part-Time Program?

Let’s start with the positives of a part-time Ph.D.

• More manageable finances: While not cheap, a Ph.D. They are usually very manageable. You pay a lower annual fee, spread over several years, making it easier to balance a part-time job. This process also gives you time to apply for funds that may be available during your study period.
• Less stressful: Part-time PhD Program makes it easier to maintain personal and professional commitments. This is especially useful if you are balancing work or family obligations such as pursuing a full-time Ph.D. It can be overwhelming in situations like this.
• Transition : Part-time PhD Roles provide flexibility. You can adjust your workload to suit your needs, such as working harder to meet deadlines or slowing down when necessary. When circumstances change, they can sometimes switch to full-time study.
• More opportunities: The longer you stay in the program, the more opportunities you can encounter, such as seminars, publications, and collaborative projects. This can enrich your learning experience, although it can also be difficult to keep up with changes in your career.
• Timeline: Part-time PhD It gives you more time to think about your career path. You may discover new interests or extracurricular career opportunities that you wouldn’t have considered if you rushed through a full-time program.

Part-time and full-time Ph.D. It’s not straightforward. This would be an easy decision if part-time PhDs were always good, but they are not. Here are some of the reasons:

• Probably not possible: Not all fields or organizations offer part-time Ph.D. The options you have. While this is common in the humanities, part-time courses in other fields are not, especially for self-funding students. International students should also check visa requirements, as some countries only issue student visas for full-time programs.
• Duration: Part-time Ph.D. It often takes longer to complete, which can delay your career progress. This extended timetable can also make it difficult to keep up with your research, as other, more important aspects of life compete for your attention. Over the course of my career, I faced a difficult period where I almost stopped highlighting how difficult it is to stay focused for long periods of time.
• Life happens: When you enroll in a  part-time Ph.D. At first, it doesn’t seem like much of a problem, and life events can affect your learning over time. Later, you will deal with a variety of distractions, from marriage to petting cats to learning to drive. These events sometimes raised eyebrows for full-time students when their path seemed more straightforward.
• FOMO is Real: Part-time PhD Students may experience a sense of loss (FOMO) when they see their full-time peers making rapid progress. This can be frustrating and can lead to feelings of cheating syndrome. It should be remembered that Ph.D. Learning is not a sprint, and seeking help when needed is normal and encouraged.

What Are The Other Types Of A PhD Program? 

There are various types of a PhD programs. Some of them are mentioned below.

PhD programs come in a variety of forms. A selection of them are listed below:

• Regular PhD Program: Regular PhD Program requires regular attendance and takes a minimum of three to five years to finish. In addition, if you wish to choose a traditional PhD program, you must pass an entrance exam. Moreover, you must devote all of your attention to your research.
• PhD Program on a  Part-Time Basis: Part-Time PhD program is specially personalized for professionals who work full-time. You must show up for evening classes. Part-time PhDs are awarded to candidates who work in reputable research organizations, academic institutions, or businesses close to the school. While students must complete the same academic courses and criteria as full-time students, a part-time PhD takes 7-8 years to accomplish. Only a few classes are needed to be attended by PhD candidates who work part-time. They need to have a NOC from their employer and a minimum of one year of work experience. The focus of a part-time Ph.D. program is on corporately beneficial research as opposed to individual studies.
• Online PhD Program : Although online PhD programs are still not approved by the UGC, you can still choose to pursue an online DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) as an alternative. The curriculum, which can be finished in a minimum of three to five years, is also for doctorates. Moreover, you do not need to attend college to pursue it.
• PhD Programs for Professionals in the Workforce: Pursuing a Ph.D. while holding a full-time job could be challenging. However, many universities offer flexible curriculum choices for working individuals, known as PhD for working professionals. These classes help students balance their studies and careers. You must have job experience, a valid GATE/NET score (if applicable), and a Master's degree with at least 60% to be eligible for this PhD program for working professionals.
• PhD Global:   A Global PhD is a PhD for working professionals that can be pursued from a foreign university. It is a little different from a PhD program offered in an Indian university in terms of eligibility criteria, selection process, fees, syllabus, and job roles. In this mode, you have to pass the entrance exam, and once you pass it, only then you can apply for a PhD Global program.
• PhD Abroad: The duration of a Ph.D. abroad is three to six years, with ample chances. To get admitted, candidates must pass entrance examinations such as the GMAT, SAT, GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS. Ph.D. programs are offered by prestigious universities in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Japan, Canada, Singapore, and France.Integrated PhD Program This integrated doctoral program is comprehensive and incorporates both a master’s and a doctorate program. The duration to complete it is a minimum of 5-6 years. You can apply for this program right after your bachelor’s.

PhD regulations for offering a PhD Part-Time PhD Program

Universities in India have rules for part-time PhDs, but there are some common criteria. Part-time PhD programs are usually for those who want to work or have other significant commitments. Students must meet the same academic requirements as full-time students, including a valid master’s degree and a good academic record.

The length of time required to complete a part-time PhD is longer than a full-time program, usually lasting six to eight years. Universities may require part-time students to attend campus events, such as seminars or workshops, over a period of time.

In addition, applicants must seek permission from their employers if they are employed and provide evidence that their PhD research can be used to supervise their employment. Students should consult with specific university regulations, as requirements and policies may vary. 

Is the Part-Time PhD Program Recognised by the UGC (University Grants Commission)? 

Yes, part-time PhDs are valid and recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India. The UGC allows universities to offer part-time PhD programs, provided they meet certain quality criteria and guidelines.

These programs are particularly suitable for working professionals who are unable to commit to a full-time study program. A key requirement is that research and learning standards must be equivalent to a full-time program.

Students in part-time PhD programs must therefore meet all necessary criteria, including coursework, thesis, and dissertation, just like their full-time counterparts.

PhD Through an Online or a Distance Mode

No university or college can offer PhD programs through distance education or online mode, according to the current regulations. However, candidates who are already employed can pursue a PhD, as long as they meet all the eligibility requirements specified in the existing PhD regulations. Click on the link to check it on the official website of the  UGC. 

Is a Part-Time PhD valid for an Assistant Professor? 

Yes, a part-time PhD is suitable and valid for those aiming to become an assistant professor. Many universities and colleges accept part-time PhDs, as long as the degree meets both academic and research requirements.

The key is to ensure that a part-time PhD program complies with university rules and standards. Universities generally look for strong research candidates, regardless of whether they completed their PhD full-time or part-time.

However, some institutions or universities may have additional or preferred criteria for part-time PhD holders, so it’s a good idea to check with specific university programs. Moreover, although a part-time PhD is valid, it can take longer to complete compared to a full-time program, which can affect the time you can apply for positions.

Balancing research and other commitments can be a challenge, but many successful teaching assistants completed their PhDs part-time. What ultimately matters most is the research you do and how you can support education.

Guidelines of Admission in PhD 2024 

According to the recent updates, the NET score will be counted for PhD admission. Now, universities do not need to take their own entrance exams.

They have grouped NET scores into three categories. These three categories are: 

• Award for JRF & Assistant Professor Appointment 
• Promotion to Assistant Professor and PhD Admission
• PhD Admission Only

Scope of PhD Program

Below is information on PhD salaries in India for Professors, Associate Professors, and other positions. The table shows the salaries of PhD Professors in India.

What are the Guidelines for Change of Registration from Part-Time to Full-Time Ph.D. Program? 

If a student in a part-time PhD program wishes to pursue full-time study, an application may be made at the beginning of the semester.

This requires the approval of the Doctoral Progress Committee (DPC) and the Dean of Research/PhD. The student can also leave their job for at least two years to focus on their research after completing the course.

The student is required to provide two Certificates of Objection (NOCs):

One is from their current employer so that they can become a full-time research scientist at the institution where their supervisor is located.

If it is not a PG college/institution affiliated to the University, where the invigilator is working, it gives access to the centers.

If the student is unemployed and unable to file an NOC, he/she should be given an undertaking to work as a full-time research scholar in the institution of the sponsor for a minimum of two years.

Conversion from a part-time to a full-time position is permitted only once during the PhD program. During this process, the student cannot change his/her discipline, branch, or research topic. Once the transition to full-time status has been approved, the student must follow all rules and guidelines for full-time research scholars.

To calculate study time, half the time spent as a part-time student counts as full-time study.

Is there an Alternative for a PhD Program? 

Yes, there is an alternative to a PhD Program, and the alternative is a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) It is also a doctorate program that can be completed in a minimum of 3 to 5 years.

Moreover, if you opt for an online DBA, you will be able to earn your doctorate degree from an international university without even relocating to another country.

Furthermore, you even get an opportunity to study from an international faculties who have years of experience and have published their work in top journals, they guide you to the best.

Moreover, there are many universities offering you an online DBA. Some of them are mentioned below :

Conclusion 

Studying a PhD full-time pays off big time. It allows you to focus more on your research, and with more time, libraries, research labs, and easy access to university resources like faculty support, students can always align their programs with university activities and attend seminars and workshops that provide them with learning experiences. In contrast, part-time students are more likely to face distractions from work or other responsibilities, which can delay their progress and dissertation completion One of the major advantages of a full-time PhD is that a part-time PhD takes seven years while a full-time PhD takes only 3-5 years.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

⭐ is a full-time phd more valuable than a part-time phd.

Both full-time and part-time PhDs have similar value in terms of credibility. The main difference is that a full-time PhD can be completed faster, which may offer some advantages in career progression. However, both types can lead to similar job opportunities and salaries.

⭐ Which is better, a full-time or part-time PhD?

The credibility of both degrees is the same. A full-time PhD  takes three to five years, while a part-time PhD takes longer. The best choice depends on your personal circumstances and commitments.

⭐ Do you get paid for a part-time PhD?

If you qualify with JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) and Assistant Professorship, you can choose to do a full-time PhD with a stipend or work as an Assistant Professor while doing a part-time PhD without a stipend.

⭐ Can I convert my part-time PhD to a full-time PhD?

Yes, you can switch from part-time to full-time PhD at the beginning of a semester. This requires a recommendation from the Doctoral Progress Committee (DPC) and approval from the Dean of Research/PhD. You must also be able to leave your job for at least two years to focus on your research.

⭐ Is a part-time PhD valid?

Yes, a part-time PhD is recognized as valid according to UGC guidelines. However, you need a "No Objection Certificate" from your employer and must complete at least six months of coursework full-time.

⭐ Is a part-time PhD difficult?

A part-time PhD is not easier than a full-time PhD. Both require significant effort, commitment, and passion to complete. The main difference is the flexibility in scheduling.

⭐ Do we get JRF in a part-time PhD?

No, the UGC JRF fellowship is only available for full-time PhD students. A part-time PhD does not come with a stipend but is more suited for working professionals who want to continue their job while studying.

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A cross-divisional department spanning

Master of Science (MS) in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene

Offered By: Department of Environmental Health and Engineering (Whiting school of engineering)

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About the MS in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene Program

This program is part of the  Education and Research Center for Occupational Safety and Health (ERC)  which is sponsored by the  National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) .

The MSOEH is accredited by the Applied and Natural Sciences Accreditation Commission (ANSAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering Technology (ABET). It is designed to prepare students to pass the Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) examination given by the Board for Global EHS Credentialing

The MSOEH is flexible and can be customized to meet a variety of professional and career goals. Students may enroll in a full-time program or the part-time/online program . Both options confer the same degree and students must meet the same academic requirements.  

This degree program is administratively managed through the Whiting School of Engineering. The full-time option is managed through Whiting/Homewood and the part-time option through Whiting’s Engineering for Professionals. All courses are offered through the Bloomberg School of Public Health. Limited funding is available to support full-time students.

Full-time program (MSOEH)

• June 1 application deadline for a fall start
• 1.5 years to complete 

Part-time program (MSOEH) 

• Hybrid/online
• Must be completed within 5 years 
• Learn more  

Certificate in Environmental and Occupational Health 

Our certificate is open to degree-seeking students and working professionals. 

• Available to degree and non-degree students 
• 18 credit hours 
• Time to completion is dependent on course selections and offering times 
• Tuition is charged at BSPH per credit rate for part-time students.  

MS in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene Program Highlights

Funding available.

Limited funding is available for full-time, U.S. students

ABET-Accredited

Join a well-established program with experienced educators and researchers

Hands-on Experience

Apply what you learn in a final project and essay

Part-Time Available

Flexible degree is great for working professionals who want to advance their skills and career

Graduate Spotlights

MSOEH graduates go on to rewarding careers in occupational and environmental hygiene. 

Pearl Lee, MS '19

"This master's program has allowed me to meet full-time professionals in the same field who are equally devoted to learning and being the best in their field."

LEARN MORE 

Caleb Ginorio, MS '21

"The long-term professional relationships I formed with classmates and faculty members at JHU continue to be essential to my career."

What Can You Do With a Graduate Degree in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene?

Possible careers include industrial hygienist, environmental risk assessor, occupational health specialist, emergency preparedness coordinator, environmental policy analyst, and environmental/occupational health or safety manager. Current job titles and employers of some recent graduates are listed below.

• Industrial Hygienist, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
• Health, Safety & Environment Advisor, Oceaneering, Hanover, MD 
• Health and Safety Site Lead, JUUL Labs, North Carolina
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialist R.T. Vanderbilt Co., Towson, MD
• EHS Engineer, Northrop Grumman, San Diego, CA 
• Corporate and Occupational Health Specialist, Arkema, Pottstown, PA 
• Industrial Hygiene Consultant, Safex, Westerville, OH 

Curriculum for the MS in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene

A master's degree in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene gives students the analytical and technical skills needed to identify and address environmental and/or occupational hazards in the workplace and surrounding community. The course of study includes risk analysis and management, environmental sampling techniques, air pollution, program management, toxicology, epidemiology, biostatistics, and occupational health.

Degree Requirements

• Academic ethics course
• 76-credit core curriculum
• Internship/independent professional project, master’s essay, and oral presentation: The student is expected to assume independent responsibility for a project, the content of which should be based on an occupational or environmental health problem that is pertinent to the educational goals of the student and approved by their adviser.

Admissions Requirements

The GRE is required for this program; it is one of the ABET-mandated minimum requirements for admitted students. The MCAT is acceptable but not preferred. A waiver may be requested if the applicant has:

• A graduate degree (master’s or doctoral degree) OR
• Successfully completed the Certificate in Environmental and Occupational Health  and earned at least a ‘B’ in all courses taken for the Certificate.

Prior education must include:

• Successful completion of college-level courses in biology, chemistry, calculus, and physics AND
• An undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited four-year college or university

If prior education does not include the prerequisites above, you must complete them before you can be admitted to the program. Courses completed at a local community college are acceptable. 

Tuition and Funding

MSOEH students are eligible for a limited number of partial-tuition awards from The NIOSH Education and Research Center . Awardeeds are selected by a faculty committee based on prior academic achievements and professional potential. Award decisions are made during the admissions process and communicated to students in their letters of acceptance.  These tuition awards are not available to international students.

Teaching Assistants

Several departmental courses require teaching assistants. Full-time students selected as teaching assistants get experience in teaching and receive compensation for their efforts. Open positions are communicated by email before the start of each term.

Which degree is right for you?

The department has a number of degrees to suit your educational and professional goals, background, and experience.

QUIZ: WHICH DEGREE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

DURATION:  9 months full-time, onsite/online; 2 years, part-time (onsite/online)

BEST FOR:  Applicants who wish to pursue a PhD or a career in the intersection of environmental and public health

BOTTOM LINE:  One-year program culminates in a short essay

GOOD TO KNOW:  Academic degree focusing on a specific area of public health, typically science-oriented

MHS PROGRAM PAGE

DURATION : 2 years, full-time, onsite

BEST FOR:  Applicants interested in hands-on experiences leading to research careers; good for students considering PhD programs

BOTTOM LINE:  The first year involves classes, while the second year involves full-time research with faculty (based on a proposal from year one), culminating in a thesis

GOOD TO KNOW:  Students get hands-on experience and conduct their own research

ScM PROGRAM PAGE

DURATION:  9 months (onsite) followed by a 7- to 12-month internship

BEST FOR:  Those seeking a career in the field of human health and environmental risk assessment

BOTTOM LINE:  Focused on fundamental concepts and testing approaches used in classic risk assessment processes

GOOD TO KNOW:  Only program of its kind in the U.S. Students completing the program can also earn the Certificate in Risk Sciences and Public Policy .

MS-TOX PROGRAM PAGE

DURATION:  1.5 years full-time (onsite)

BEST FOR:  Applicants with prior coursework in basic sciences who want a career in occupational health

BOTTOM LINE:  Designed to prepare students to pass the Certified Industrial Hygienist Examination

GOOD TO KNOW:  Complete an internship between years one and two to get work experience in industrial hygiene. This program is administered by the Whiting School of Engineering , but all classes are offered through the Bloomberg School of Public Health.

MSOEH PROGRAM PAGE

DURATION:  up to 5 years part-time (hybrid)

BEST FOR:  Professionals currently working in the field who want to advance their career in occupational health

GOOD TO KNOW:  Flexible format; complete independent project at your place of employment. This program is administered by the Whiting School of Engineering’s Engineering for Professionals program, but all classes are offered through the Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Questions about the program? We're happy to help. [email protected]