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Top 20 Cheapest Online PhD Programs in 2024

If you’re looking to earn a Ph.D. without committing to full-time study, an online Ph.D. might be a fantastic option. Many students can juggle their thesis, work, and family commitments, but unfortunately, online doctorates tend to come with a hefty price tag.

That said, you don’t have to break the bank to pursue your qualification! We’ve compiled the 15 cheapest online Ph.D. programs in 2024.

Table of Contents

The 20 Cheapest Online Ph.D. Programs

Related : Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees

1. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Missouri State University
Annual tuition : $14,700
Cost per credit: No information available
In-person requirement: 100% online
Credits required to graduate: 29 credit hours

The Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Missouri State University is one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in nursing. It offers incredible flexibility, letting full-time and part-time students choose between attending classes in real time or watching replays on their own time. The program provides a clear overview of modern scientific methods and practices, entrepreneurship, finance management principles, and health policy for senior nursing professionals.

2. Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc)

pacific college of health acupuncture phd program screenshot

Pacific College of Health and Science
Annual tuition : $9,988
Cost per credit: $454
Credits required to graduate: See the model curriculum

This online program is designed for anyone with a Master’s in Acupuncture. It aims to give students a deeper understanding of Chinese medicine and general biomedicine, specifically acupuncture. It will also sharpen students’ knowledge of healthcare ethics, build leadership skills, and enhance their problem-solving capabilities. This is one of the cheapest online doctorate programs available today, especially considering the number of credit hours.

3. Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Agriculture Education/Higher Education Administration

Texas Tech University phd in agriculture

Texas Tech University
Annual tuition : $8,779 (based on full-time courseload of 18 credit hours, for all online learners)
Cost per credit: $488 per credit hour in-state online learners. According to Texas Tech University, students may pay around the same for out-of-state (although there may be some fees)
In-person requirement: Hybrid
Credits required to graduate: 72 credit hours minimum

This cheap online doctoral program in education is delivered entirely online. To be eligible, students need relevant professional experience. For Higher Education specialization, they’ll also require professional experience at a post-secondary institution. The Agriculture Education program will help students develop critical thinking in agricultural research, statistics, and communication.

4. Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

a&t university phd philosophy leadership studies course

North Carolina A&T State University
Annual tuition: $4,194 for in-state students, $15,480 for out-of-state students
Cost per credit : $233 per credit hour for in-state students, $860 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Credits required to graduate: 60 credit hours minimum, 48 hours of coursework, 12 hours for dissertation

This interdisciplinary program is for master’s degree holders who want to research sociology and behavior in order to learn more about leadership qualities. The program requires 42 program credits and 12 dissertation credits. This online doctorate is relevant to various industries and disciplines. Upon successful completion, students will be qualified for a range of roles in consultancy, research, and education.

Related : The best one-year online Ph.D. programs

5. Ph.D. in Computer Science

doctor of computer science colorado tech screenshot

Colorado Technical University
Annual tuition: $13,393
Cost per credit: $598 per credit hour
In-person requirement: Courses are 100% online. On-campus residency is required during research.
Credits required to graduate: 100 credit hours are obtainable in as few as three years.

This 100-credit program in computer science provides a modern, relevant approach to computing. With deep knowledge in a specialized area of computer science, students are equipped to predict future trends in the field and make significant contributions to the sector. This program will help them become experts in computer design, security, and processes. As one of the most affordable online Ph.D. programs in computer science, classes are flexible, so students can arrange their studies around their schedule.

Considering that 100 credits are required to graduate, this Colorado Technical University program is one of the most inexpensive Ph.D. programs online.

6. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Indiana State University
Annual tuition : $8,103 for in-state students, $10,527 for out-of-state students
Cost per credit: $438 per credit hour in-state. Out-of-state students pay $861 per credit hour unless they’re eligible for online rates ($569). A $50 per graduate course fee is added to online learning courses .
In-person requirement: 100% online
Credits required to graduate: 37 credit hours, no dissertation required

Students require a Master’s in Nursing to be eligible for Indiana State University’s online DNP program. This program doesn’t involve writing a dissertation, and the entire course can be completed in 37 credit hours. It is designed to develop and sharpen knowledge of care delivery, ethics, leadership, and decision-making while developing critical thinking skills to provide patient care.

To earn a DNP, Indiana State University offers one of the more affordable Ph.D. programs online.

7. Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction

New Mexico State University
Annual tuition: $17,551
Cost per credit: $444.40 per credit hour for all students .
In-person requirement: One week of in-person learning at the Las Cruces campus during the summer session (required for three summers)
Credits required to graduate: 66 credit hour minimum. Depending on your advisor and committee suggestions, more may be requested.

The C&I (Curriculum and Instruction) online doctorate at New Mexico State University is a generalist doctoral qualification. You can choose to specialize in multicultural teaching, early childhood education, education and technology, cultural studies, or critical pedagogies. The program also offers the option to choose independent courses to enhance your particular area of study.

The C&I doctoral program is one of the most affordable Ph.D. programs online (a flat rate of $444.4 per credit hour) whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student.

8. Doctor of Public Health / Global Health Leadership

Indiana University Online
Annual tuition: $10,350 for in-state students, $22,500 for out-of-state students
Cost per credit hour: $690 in-state, $1,500 out-of-state
In-person requirement: Three face-to-face meetings in both Year 1 and Year 2. Otherwise, everything else is online.
Credits required to graduate: 45 credits over an average of three years

This doctoral qualification specializing in global and public health uses a global curriculum from an international faculty. The program accepts two cohorts: a group with seven years of work experience (after completing a master’s degree) and one for students with at least a few years’ experience post master’s.

Indiana University’s program is designed for professionals in the public health sector – and it’s one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs of its kind.

9. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

University of Massachusetts – Amherst
Annual tuition : $14,850 (based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
Cost per credit: $825 per credit hour
In-person requirement: If you already have an MSN and are a CPN (Advanced), you can join the online DNP completion program.
Credits required to graduate: 36 credit hours

The University of Massachusetts’ online doctorate program in Nursing Practice allows professionals to enhance their practical skills and knowledge of medical care. It also helps them to think critically about advanced scientific knowledge in healthcare, analyze clinical results, and perfect their leadership skills while taking an evidence-based approach through the latest healthcare and nursing research.

10. EdD in Higher Education Administration

University of Wyoming
Annual tuition : $6,460 for in-state students, $19,340 for out-of-state students
Cost per credit: $359 per credit hour for in-state students. $1,075 per credit hour for out-of-state students.
In-person requirement: Initial campus visit, then almost entirely online
Credits required to graduate: Roughly 75

University of Wyoming’s doctoral program aims to create education leaders that effectively manage higher education institutions. Students can complete the program with around 75 credits. This program can be completed almost entirely online (though it does require an initial campus visit). If you’re looking for the cheapest Ph.D. online, this is certainly one of them.

11. Doctor of Philosophy in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

Auburn University
Annual tuition : $17,082 ((based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
Cost per credit: $949 per credit hour
In-person requirement: You may be required to visit the campus for oral exams and project/thesis/dissertation defense
Credits required to graduate: 30 credit hours minimum for a thesis option, 36 credit hours minimum for the non-thesis option

This is one of the few online doctoral specializations available for professionals in the field of chemical engineering. It is also one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs in the discipline, requiring 30 course credits and 10 research credits to complete. If you’re looking for a cheap online Ph.D. in engineering, this offering from Auburn University might suit you.

Specialization subjects include polymer chemistry and conduction in polymers, mechanics of materials made of textiles, fabrics used for producing paper, along with many others. Any student with a master’s degree from a recognized institution in a relevant field (e.g., biomedical engineering, polymer science) is eligible for the program.

12. Ph.D. of Philosophy in Nursing

Hampton University
Annual tuition: $9,382 – $10,425 (based on completing 54 to 60 credits over four years)
Cost per credit: $695
Credits required to graduate: 54 to 60 credits over an average of 4 years; 7 years maximum

To apply, students need a master’s degree in a relevant field. This online doctoral degree requires a minimum of 48 credits (beyond a master’s degree) for completion. This is a flexible program where students can pursue areas of interest beyond the core subjects.

13. Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

Liberty University
Annual tuition: $13,566 on average
Cost per credit: $595 per credit for full-time students (6-15 credits per semester)
Credits required to graduate: 57 credit hours over 2.5 years (on average)

This 100% online and highly flexible program is offered by Liberty University, a higher education institution grounded in Christian values. The program specializes in diagnosis, treatment, and counseling, especially in family and marriage, as well as research and education methodology. Note : This EdD degree does not meet state counseling licensure requirements.

14. Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy

Annual tuition: $11,900 on average
Cost per credit: $595 per credit hour for full-time online (enrolled in 6 to 15 credits per semester)
Credits required to graduate: 60 credit hours over 3 years on average

This online doctoral program can be completed in 60 credit hours and aims to equip students for the world of public policy. It encourages new research to improve and transform the public policy sector through Christian doctrine.

15. Doctor of Business Administration

Columbia Southern University
Annual tuition : $8,845
Cost per credit: $435
Credits required to graduate: minimum of 61 credits (up to 9 can be transferred)

One of the most affordable online degree programs in Business Administration, this Columbia Southern Ph.D. allows students to develop advanced leadership and decision-making skills, focusing on both research and the application of theory. To earn their doctorate, students need to complete a dissertation and defend it before a committee (which can be done remotely). In addition to this project-based study, students must also complete coursework on topics such as corporate responsibility, financial and accounting management, and quantitative data analysis.

16. Juris Doctor

Abraham Lincoln University
Annual tuition : $11,375
Cost per credit: $325 per quarter unit
Credits required to graduate: 140 quarter units over four years

The Juris Doctor program offered by Abraham Lincoln University is one of the oldest online law schools in California. Fully online, students learn a range of advanced analytical, technical, and research skills to practice law or work in a range of positions in the legal sector. The program is registered with the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California.

17. Doctor of Education (EdD)

William Howard Taft University
Annual tuition: $6,480 (based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
Cost per credit: $360
Credits required to graduate: 60 credits

This online Ph.D. in Education program equips students with advanced knowledge of organizational development, educational psychology, diversity in education, and law & ethics. Students can choose between three concentrations: Leadership & Administration, Educational Technology, and Charter School Administration.

18. Online Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

Arizona State University
Tuition : $10,170 (for a full-time load of nine credit hours per semester)
Cost per credit: $565
Credits required to graduate: 90 credit hours

This affordable online doctorate is offered in a cohort model that is designed to provide students with a high degree of academic support. As part of this model, students are placed in leader scholar community groups to improve student experiences and promote better learning outcomes. Designed for practicing educators and leaders in the education sector, the program gives educators the tools to better support student success and drive positive change in classrooms – and across entire institutions.

Students may opt for one of three educational pathways:

Pre-K to Grade 12 Change Leadership
Higher Education Change Leadership
Systems, Professional, and Reimagined Change Leadership.

19. E dD in Leadership

American College of Education
Total program cost: $23,914
Cost per credit: $306 (total program cost $23,914)
Credits required to graduate: 64 credits over 36 months

This is one of the most affordable fully online doctoral programs in educational leadership. Students pursue original research in an area of their choice while using evidence-based decision-making to solve real-world problems. The program typically takes three years, but accelerated programs are available for qualifying students (e.g., EdS, ACE graduates).

20. Doctor of Nursing Practice (Educational Leadership)

Post University
Annual tuition: $13,860
Cost per credit: $770
Credits required to graduate: 42 credit hours over 28 months

This is one of only a handful of online DNP programs specializing in educational leadership. It equips nursing educators with vital skills across leadership, curriculum development, policy, finance, research, and strategic planning. The program is broken down into eight-week courses and offers six start dates per year, making it easier for busy professionals to fit their studies into their schedules.

What’s the Average Cost of Online Doctoral Degrees?

Most online doctoral degree programs cost between $10,000 and $20,000 yearly in tuition and fees. However, this can vary widely depending on the institution and field of study. The most affordable online doctorate degrees start at around $6,000 annually, with a total degree cost of around $12,000.

Related : The easiest Ph.D. to consider

Make Cheap Online Ph.D. Programs Even More Affordable

We’ve pulled together the cheapest online doctoral degree programs from respected institutions in various fields. However, even when looking at the most affordable online doctoral programs, tuition and other fees can add up. Luckily, many sources of financial support can help.

Many universities and colleges provide financial aid to students. There are also scholarships, loans, and grants available for deserving students. You can even ask your employer to cover all or part of your tuition and other study expenses.

Top Doctoral Degree Fields

By looking at the median annual wage, some of the highest-paying fields for Ph.D. graduates (as of 2021) include:

Psychiatrists : $226,880
Software Architects : $120,520
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers : $97,410
Medical Scientists : $95,310
Petroleum Geologists : $83,680

Related : The top online Ph.D. programs .

Where Are Ph.D. Holders Most Desired?

Currently, doctorate holders are most in demand in the fields of law, post-secondary education (especially in health specialties), and physical therapy. You’ll find countless affordable online doctorate programs, especially in some of the programs we listed above.

Mean earnings in the US in 2021 by level of educational attainment:

Less than 9th grade: $32,907
High school (9th to 12th Nongrad): $30,072
Graduate (including GED): $42,851
Some college, but no degree: $45,423
Associate degree: $52,127
Bachelor’s degree: $80,384
Master’s degree: $97,647
Professional degree: $156,305
Doctorate degree: $140,469

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest online doctorate.

In the age where online learning is becoming the norm, it comes as no surprise that more and more institutions are offering doctoral degrees online. Online education, by its nature, tends to be cheaper than in-person learning. To give you a better idea, some of the cheapest online doctoral programs are:

North Carolina A&T State University’s Doctor of Philosophy program costs just $233 per credit, or $4,194 per year in annual tuition for in-state residents. However, tuition is significantly higher for residents of other states.
Columbia Southern University offers doctorate programs at $435 per credit hour (or $391.50 for CSU Learning Partner members). The university tries to include textbooks and eBooks in the total cost to lower your costs even more. Of course, this may not always be valid for those working toward doctorates.

It’s worth mentioning that many doctorates (even those online) offer financial aid opportunities to help you pay part or all of your tuition costs. It may be worth looking into programs where these opportunities exist.

Do Online Ph.D. Programs Provide Financial Aid?

If you want to earn your doctorate online, you can still apply for FAFSA if the school or program accepts it. Consider online schools and programs that offer financial aid.

Most universities will offer scholarships and grants to qualifying students, whether they are attending in-person or online classes. For example, students at Missouri State University’s Doctor of Nursing program can apply for MSU’s annual scholarship.

Note: Although you can apply for various scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to get them.

Are Online Ph.D. Programs Legitimate?

Yes, there are a large number of legitimate online Ph.D. programs offered by reputable institutions. As with any higher-education program, it’s essential to check that the school is accredited before enrolling, as this is directly related to the value of any qualification. It’s also important to consider the institution’s reputation, which may influence potential future employers.

Can I Get a Ph.D. for Free?

Several fully-funded Ph.D. programs offer doctorates with no out-of-pocket costs. These programs typically cover tuition and other expenses for the entire duration of the program through scholarships, grants, work-study, or a combination of these. Some schools even offer a stipend for living expenses.

However, many of these programs involve on-campus attendance. The options for fully-funded online doctoral programs are much more limited.

Key Takeaways

An online doctoral qualification not only helps you to advance your career but also encourages your personal development via critical thinking, leadership, and analytical skills. You’ll find that pursuing one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in 2022 will provide countless benefits!

Want to get a Ph.D. but aren’t sure if you qualify? Discover whether you need a master’s to get a Ph.D. !

Lisa Marlin

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

Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ 12 Best Laptops for Computer Science Students
Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ ACBSP Vs AACSB: Which Business Program Accreditations is Better?
Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ BA vs BS: What You Need to Know [2024 Guide]
Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ The 19 Best MBA Scholarships to Apply for [2024-2025]

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Most Affordable Online Ph.D. Programs in 2024

Online Degrees
10 min read

Pursuing a Ph.D. can be a costly endeavor, but it doesn’t have to break the bank.

We’ve ranked the 20 most affordable online Ph.D. programs based on a methodology weighing three key factors.

The Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in 2024

Rankings analysis and insights, guide to affordable online phd programs, top paying phd degrees, common questions about affordable online phd programs, can i earn a ph.d. online for free.

Ranking Methodology

Annual Tuition Costs: This accounts for 50% of the ranking score. We looked at the total annual tuition cost for a full-time course load. Lower tuition receives a higher score.
Cost Per Credit Hour: 30% of the ranking score is based on the cost per credit hour. A lower cost per credit equals a higher score.
Flexibility and Accessibility: The remaining 20% of the score focuses on program flexibility and accessibility. Programs that are 100% online with multiple start dates per year and no residency requirements receive the highest marks.

Using this ranking methodology, here are the top 20 most affordable online Ph.D. programs for 2024.

North Carolina A&T State University – Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

$4,194 – $15,480 annual tuition
60 credits, 100% online

With in-state tuition of just $233 per credit hour, NC A&T tops the list as the #1 most affordable online PhD program. This flexible 60 credit program has no residency requirements and focuses on leadership theory and research methods.

Columbia Southern University – Doctor of Business Administration

Doctor of Business Administration

$8,845 annual tuition
61 credits, 100% online

At $435 per credit hour, CSU offers one of the cheapest online business doctorates. This 100% online, 61 credit DBA has a dissertation requirement but no residency.

William Howard Taft University – Doctor of Education

Doctor of Education

$6,480 annual tuition

Taft’s EdD only costs $360 per credit and has no additional fees. The 60 credit degree is fully online with a choice of concentrations.

American College of Education – EdD in Leadership

EdD in Leadership

$6,528 annual tuition
64 credits, 100% online

For $306 per credit hour, ACE offers an affordable leadership-focused doctorate in education completely online. Students complete a dissertation.

Indiana State University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

Doctor of Nursing Practice

$8,103 – $10,527 annual tuition
37 credits, 100% online

With tuition of $438 per credit, ISU’s 37 credit DNP is a top choice for an affordable nursing doctorate. The program is 100% online with no residencies.

Texas Tech University – EdD in Agricultural Education

EdD in Agricultural Education

$8,779 annual in-state tuition
72 credits, hybrid

Texas residents pay only $488 per credit for this 72 credit education doctorate with an agricultural focus from TTU. It is mostly online with minimal campus visits.

Post University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

$13,860 annual tuition
42 credits, 100% online

Post offers its 42 credit DNP for only $770 per credit hour. The program is entirely online in an accelerated 28-month timeline.

Liberty University – Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

$13,566 annual tuition
57 credits, 100% online

Liberty’s CCC EdD costs just $595 per credit with discounts for full-time students. The 57 credit program is 100% online.

University of Wyoming – EdD in Higher Education Administration

EdD in Higher Education Administration

$6,460 – $19,340 annual tuition
75 credits, mostly online

UW’s education doctorate costs only $359 per credit for in-state students. It is mostly online with one initial campus visit.

Missouri State University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

$14,700 annual tuition
29 credits, 100% online

MSU’s DNP runs $14,700 in flat annual tuition, making it one of the most affordable nursing doctorates. The 29 credit program is completely online.

Abraham Lincoln University – Juris Doctor

Juris Doctor (JD)

$11,375 annual tuition
140 credits, 100% online

ALU offers an ABA-approved law doctorate for only $325 per quarter unit. The 140 unit JD is 100% online with flexibility.

Arizona State University – Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

$10,170 annual tuition
90 credits, 100% online

ASU’s EdD is $565 per credit but offers grants and scholarships to lower costs further. The 90 credit program is online in a supportive cohort model.

University of Massachusetts – Doctor of Nursing Practice

$14,850 annual tuition
36 credits, online after MSN

UMass’ 36 credit DNP is $825 per credit hour for a total cost under $15,000 a year. It is online after completing an MSN degree.

New Mexico State University – PhD in Curriculum & Instruction

PhD in Curriculum & Instruction

$17,551 annual tuition
66+ credits, mostly online

NMSU’s C&I doctorate is $444 per credit for all students. It is mostly online with some summer campus sessions required.

Pacific College of Health and Science – Doctor of Acupuncture

Doctor of Acupuncture

$9,988 annual tuition
Varies, 100% online

At $454 per credit, this DAOM completion degree is one of the most affordable doctorates in acupuncture. The program is 100% online.

Colorado Technical University – PhD in Computer Science

PhD in Computer Science

$13,393 annual tuition
100 credits, online with residency

CTU offers a flexible 100 credit PhD in computer science for $598 per credit hour. Online with occasional on-campus research.

Indiana University – Doctor of Public Health

Doctor of Public Health

$10,350 – $22,500 annual tuition
45 credits, mostly online

IU’s online DrPH costs between $690-$1500 per credit depending on residency. It includes some face-to-face meetings over two years.

Hampton University – PhD in Nursing

PhD in Nursing

$9,382 – $10,425 annual tuition
54-60 credits, 100% online

Hampton’s online nursing PhD ranges from $695-$750 per credit. The flexible 54-60 credit program has no residency requirements.

Auburn University – PhD in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

PhD in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

$17,082 annual tuition
30-36 credits, mostly online

Auburn’s engineering Ph.D. is $949 per credit. The program is mostly online, with potential campus visits for exams and defense.

Liberty University – PhD in Public Policy

Ph.D. in Public Policy

$11,900 annual tuition

Liberty’s 60 credit public policy Ph.D. costs $595 per credit. The online program incorporates Christian doctrine.

Public and state colleges tend to offer the most affordable options, with lower in-state tuition rates. Private universities are typically more expensive for online doctoral programs.
Certain fields like nursing, education, business, and public policy have numerous affordable online options, likely due to high demand. Fields like law, medicine, and hard sciences have fewer cheap online programs available.
Total credit requirements range widely from 30 credits up to over 90 credits, impacting overall program cost. Shorter programs with no dissertation requirement are sometimes cheaper.
Annual tuition costs of $10,000-15,000 are quite common even for affordable online PhDs. Programs under $10,000 are rare, making financial aid and support crucial.
100% online programs with no residency provide the most cost savings on travel and lodging. Programs with some on-campus elements have higher overall costs.
Part-time and flexible pacing options can lower per credit tuition rates at some schools, ideal for working professionals.
Even affordable programs often have extra fees for technology, resources, and graduation costs that add to the total price.
Ranking strictly by annual tuition cost provides just one data point. Cost per credit and program flexibility also influence value.

In summary, public universities tend to offer the most affordable online Ph.D. options, especially in high-demand fields like nursing and education. But additional financial support is still key, even with cheaper programs. Flexibility, required credits, and fees also impact total costs.

Pursuing a PhD can be expensive, but online programs can provide a more affordable option for advancing your education and career. This guide covers key factors to consider when researching cheap online doctoral programs.

What to Look For in Affordable Online PhDs

Low Tuition Costs – Compare annual and per credit tuition rates. In-state public schools tend to be cheaper.
Limited Fees – Watch out for extra fees that can increase the overall cost.
100% Online – Fully online programs eliminate travel and on-campus costs.
Flexibility – Look for self-paced options with multiple start dates per year.
Financial Aid – Ask about scholarships, grants, assistantships, and other aid opportunities.
No Residency – Programs without residency requirements maximize cost savings.

Most Affordable Online Ph.D. Fields

Certain subjects tend to have lower-cost online doctoral options:

Public Policy/Administration
Engineering
Computer Science

Ways to Save on Online PhDs

If tuition is still high, here are some tips to reduce costs:

Apply for financial aid through the school and external scholarships
Use employer education benefits or tuition reimbursement
Attend part-time to qualify for lower per-credit rates
Find paid research or teaching assistant roles
Take advantage of in-state tuition if moving is an option

A Ph.D. can lead to high-paying jobs in academia, research, or specialized industries.

These degrees offer high salaries because they require a high level of skill and knowledge. They also lead to careers in in-demand fields.

Early Career Salary: $103,000
Mid-Career Salary: $144,000
Initial Salary: $118,000
Pay at mid-career level: $145,000
Early Career Salary: $83,400
Mid-Career Salary: $146,000
Early Career Salary: $96,100
Early Career Salary: $93,700
Mid-Career Salary: $135,000
Pay in Your Early Years: $88,100
Pay at mid-career level: $133,000
Salary for an Early Career: $105,000
Pay at mid-career level: $131,000
Early Career Salary: $93,600
Mid-career salary: $137,000
Early Career Salary: $75,400
Mid-Career Salary: $141,000
Early Career Salary: $73,600
Mid-Career Salary: $138,000

Pursuing an online PhD program can provide flexibility and convenience for working professionals and parents.

However, earning a doctoral degree remotely also raises many questions about cost, financial aid, legitimacy, and more.

The section below answers some of the most frequently asked questions about affordable online PhD options .

What are some of the cheapest online doctorate programs?

While tuition costs vary, some particularly affordable options include:

North Carolina A&T State University’s online Doctor of Philosophy program charges just $233 per credit hour for in-state students.
Columbia Southern University offers doctoral programs starting at $435 per credit hour, including textbooks and eBooks.
Many schools provide financial assistance, which can lower out-of-pocket costs for online learners. Checking a program’s aid opportunities is advisable.

Can I get financial aid for an online PhD program?

Yes, financial aid, including scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans, is often available for online doctoral students–some of which are known as “ fully funded online PhD programs “. Steps to take:

Complete the FAFSA if the program/school accepts it.
Research scholarships and grants specifically for online learners.
Ask about aid directly through the school or program.
Explore employer education benefits and professional development funds.

Are online PhD programs seen as legitimate credentials?

Absolutely. Top schools like Stanford, Columbia, and MIT now offer online doctorates. Be sure to verify:

The program has valid accreditation .
The school is non-profit and regionally accredited.
Past graduates found career success after earning their degrees .

A small number of schools provide full funding for select on-campus Ph.D. students. But free online options besides the GI Bill for veterans are very limited. Realistically, expect to pay some tuition costs unless you secure a full scholarship or grant.

Affordable online Ph.D. programs do exist but require diligent research. Seeking aid and evaluating total costs are key steps for remote doctoral students.

Finding an affordable online Ph.D. is possible with research and utilizing all financial aid opportunities available. Being flexible about the school and program can also help you find the best value.

Best Online Degrees: Guide to Top Accredited Programs

associate degree in nursing online - Multi-ethnic group of happy medical and nursing students talking through a hallway and talking.

Associate Degree in Nursing Online [ADN]

Shortest doctoral programs online, 2 year rn programs online.

Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

Erin Treder

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Rachel Miller

Updated January 2, 2024

Danika Miller

Contributing Editor

Reviewed by

Lonnie Woods III

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A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is the highest level of academic degree that you can attain. Consisting primarily of research, a Ph.D. prepares you for a career in academia or research in the field you study.

Students who choose to pursue a Ph.D. online will find it can be completed in less time. Online students also get the added benefit of being able to complete their work from the comfort of home. The overall cost may also be less compared to an in-person program.

We've compiled a list of the best accredited online Ph.D. programs to help you start your search.

Are Online Ph.D. Programs Worth It?

An online Ph.D. program is an ideal choice if you want to balance your career and family responsibilities along with your education.

While there are some preconceived notions that online programs aren't legitimate, as long as the program you choose is accredited, the degree is the same as one earned in person.

While the annual tuition cost to earn a Ph.D. online averages $12,394 for a public institution and $26,621 for a private university, doctoral graduates enjoy a lower unemployment rate and higher weekly salary than those with less education, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Did You Know...

According to the BLS , workers with a doctoral degree earned a median of $651 more per week than workers with a bachelor's degree in 2022.
Doctorate-holders boast some of the lowest unemployment rates at 1%.
In 2019, research found that 39.8% of graduate students were enrolled in online learning.
The number of doctorates awarded between 2020 and 2021 dropped by 5.4%.
Not all Ph.D.-holders end up working in academia.

Explore Our Featured Online Doctoral Programs

Top schools for online accredited ph.d. programs.

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

Capitol Technology University

Online + Campus

Cost per Credit: In-State | $950 Out-of-State | $950

Credits to Graduate: 60

Founded in 1927, Capitol Technology University features 40 doctoral programs, which you can complete online. Majors include aeronautical science, artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, military leadership, occupation risk management, and supply chain management.

Programs require about 60 credits, but you can choose from a doctoral degree without any research requirements. Coursework focuses on doctoral research, proposal writing, and oral defense. Capitol also offers a dual master's and Ph.D. in technology combination program.

Admission requirements vary, but generally you need a master's degree in a related major and five years of work experience.

Clemson University

Clemson, SC

Cost per Credit: In-State | $515-$1,319 Out-of-State | $515-$1,319

Clemson's graduate catalog features 52 doctoral programs with the flexibility to study on campus, online, or in a hybrid format. Fields like digital history, entomology, genetics, or business administration offer on-campus programs for traditional doctoral students. You have the opportunity to study virtually in nine doctoral programs, including nursing, educational leadership, and parks, recreation and tourism management.

To obtain a doctoral degree, candidates must complete approximately 60 credits over a span of 3-5 years and successfully defend their dissertation.

Keiser University

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Total Cost: In-State | $31,712 Out-of-State | $31,712

Keiser University, which was established in 1977, offers 19 flexible doctoral degrees. You can attend classes on the 100-acre main campus or study at one of 23 satellite campuses. Programs offer evening, online, and daytime courses. Keiser's “student first” policy lets you take 1-2 classes at a time, depending on your availability. It takes about 2-5 years to earn your doctoral degree.

To apply for a doctoral program, you need to submit your master's or doctoral transcripts, a resume, personal statement, and an application with a fee.

Mississippi State University

Mississippi State, MS

Cost per Credit: In-State | $537 Out-of-State | $1,074-$1,468

Credits to Graduate: 60-65

The public research university MSU, which began admitting students in 1880 as an Agricultural and Mechanical College, now boasts 71 doctoral degrees, including 15 virtual programs. Ph.D. programs include engineering, computer science, agricultural sciences, mathematical sciences, and educational leadership. In addition to coursework, you'll need to complete a dissertation and defense on an independent research topic.

As a doctoral candidate, you can access ample research opportunities. The Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station runs 16 stations throughout the state. Applicants need a recommended 3.4 GPA for their master's-level coursework.

Nova Southeastern University

Cost per Credit: In-State | $969-$1,386 Out-of-State | $969-$1,386

Credits to Graduate: 51-64

Nova Southeastern University, the largest private research university in Florida, boasts 14 colleges and 11 campuses. NSU offers 37 doctoral programs, with 19 of them available online. Earn a doctoral degree online in subjects such as criminal justice, computer science, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology.

Departments such as the NSU Fischler College of Education and the School of Criminal Justice offer dissertation resources, including templates and mentor support. Each program sets distinct admission requirements, but you generally need a master's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $599 Out-of-State | $1,439

Credits to Graduate: 31-60

Old Dominion University offers 10 online doctoral programs through its seven colleges and three schools. The program covers a range of subjects such as nursing, community college leadership, educational leadership, engineering management, English, instruction design and technology, and workforce and organizational development.

Admission requirements vary across programs. For instance, the Ph.D. in business administration requires GMAT or GRE scores, while the Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction asks applicants to submit master's transcripts, an essay, and three references.

Saybrook University

Pasadena, CA

Cost per Credit: In-State | $1,416-$1,590 Out-of-State | $1,416-$1,590

Credits to Graduate: 54-76

Offering hybrid online degrees since 1970, Saybrook University now delivers 11 online doctoral degrees. You can earn a doctoral degree completely online or in a hybrid format with a low-residency option.

Doctoral students can pursue studies in counseling, integrative social work, organizational systems, mind-body medicine, integrative and functional nutrition, psychology, and wellness. To get admitted, you need at least a master's degree. And you complete up to 76 credits over about 4-5 years.

Texas Tech University

Lubbock, TX

Cost per Semester: In-State | $2,107-$6,877 Out-of-State | $2,107-$6,877

Credits to Graduate: 60-96

Created in 1923, Texas Tech's 13 colleges and schools offer 98 doctoral degrees. Texas Tech offers doctoral degrees in agricultural and applied economics, animal science, computer science, curriculum and instruction, and special education.

Many of the doctoral programs, such as the Ph.D. in psychology and Ph.D. in wind science and engineering, offer STEM OPT Extension eligibility to extend your F-1 visa for up to two years. Programs require about 60 credits on average and a dissertation. Depending on the program, you may need to submit GRE scores to apply.

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.

We rank schools using factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation .

For this page, we created a directory of online accredited Ph.D. programs that meet our criteria. The list is organized alphabetically rather than ranked.

Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page .

Does Accreditation Matter for Online Ph.D. Programs?

A college is accredited after being recognized by an independent institution that verifies the school's courses and programs meet set quality standards.

The school you choose must be accredited in order for your Ph.D. to be recognized by employers , earn professional licensures, and qualify you for federal financial aid.

Legitimate accreditors are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. Cost?

In general, you can expect to pay around $13,000-$30,000 per year in tuition and fees for your online Ph.D.

Several factors affect how much your Ph.D. program will cost, including:

Whether the program is fully funded
Whether your school is public or private
Whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student
How long your program lasts (most Ph.D. programs take 5-7 years to complete)
How much financial aid you get

While many in-person and online doctoral programs in the U.S. are fully funded, these tend to be highly competitive.

One way to save money on your online Ph.D. is to attend a program that offers in-state tuition to residents. Make sure you submit the FAFSA each year so you can secure federal financial aid .

You may also need to budget for occasional travel to and from campus and research sites, especially as you work on your dissertation.

What's the Difference Between a Ph.D. and a Doctorate?

While a Ph.D. and a doctoral degree, or doctorate, both signify the same level of education completed, their uses are different.

Doctorate is the broader term — a Ph.D. is a type of doctorate. Specifically, a Ph.D. is an academic degree that prepares you for a career in research or teaching in your field of study (such as science, English, or economics).

Besides a Ph.D., other types of doctorates include a doctor of medicine (MD), a doctor of education (Ed.D.), and a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). These degrees are typically used in either an academic or professional setting.

Online Ph.D. Programs That Don't Require a Dissertation

A dissertation is a final written project culminating in a student's original research at the end of their Ph.D. program. A dissertation is typically presented and defended by its author. It's typically required for degrees with an academic or research focus.

Not all Ph.D. programs require a dissertation. For example, some Ph.D. programs in humanities, education, business administration, and criminal justice require simple or no dissertations for a quicker completion time .

What Jobs Can You Get After Earning an Online Ph.D.?

Once you finish your online doctoral program, you can explore a variety of career paths both within and outside academia.

Many Ph.D. graduates, especially those who studied the humanities, go on to become professors. Other popular roles include administrator, scientist, and psychologist.

Graduates of online Ph.D. programs earn a relatively high average base salary of $105,000 a year, according to Payscale .

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs

Collapse All

What is the quickest Ph.D. to get?

The quickest Ph.D. to earn are those that award professional degrees and don't require extensive research projects or dissertations at completion. These Ph.D. programs can include accounting, business, education, and media.

To finish your degree faster, you can also look for accelerated programs that quicken the pace of a program and shorten the time it takes to complete.

Are online doctoral programs legit?

If the online doctoral program is accredited, it is legitimate. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the rigorous educational standards of other comparative doctoral programs.

With accreditation, employers and other institutions of higher learning will recognize your degree. As more universities turn toward online programs to serve a more diverse student population, there are a growing number of legitimate, accredited online Ph.D. programs.

How long are online Ph.D. programs?

Online Ph.D. programs, like any other doctoral program, can vary in length but typically take 5-7 years to complete. A doctoral degree balances coursework with research. Usually, students must meet a certain number of course requirements before they can start original research.

While coursework may take only a year or two, writing a dissertation that meets the program requirements varies from candidate to candidate.

Can I earn my Ph.D. entirely online?

Yes, many accredited colleges and universities offer 100% online Ph.D. programs. That said, some programs may require on-campus experiences, such as library research and a dissertation defense.

What do employers think of online doctoral programs?

It takes a high level of discipline and persistence to obtain a graduate degree, no matter the context. Most employers will recognize and value the hard work it takes to get a Ph.D., whether you completed your doctorate online or in person.

Make sure you research potential programs. If you're attending an accredited, well-regarded school, employers will value your online Ph.D. just as much as a traditional one.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed November 20, 2023.

Popular Resources

Whether you’re looking to earn your online degree or you’re a parent looking for answers, you can find all of your questions covered here. Explore these resources to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever is thrown your way.

Shape your future with an online degree

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.

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The 20 Most Affordable Online Doctoral Programs

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Career Guides

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Aerospace Engineering
Behavioral Health (D.B.H.)
Chemical Engineering (PhD CE)
Chemistry (D.Chem.)
Clinical Nutrition (D.C.N.)
Speech-Language Pathology (CScD)
Criminology (D.Crim.)
Economics (DEc)
Health Science (D.H.S./D.H.Sci)
Library Science (D.L.S.)
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Frequently Asked Questions

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How Much Does a Ph.D. Cost?
How many years will it take for me to achieve my doctorate degree online?
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If you’re looking for the most affordable online doctoral degrees, you likely either have a vision for success or have already accomplished a great deal. Doctoral degrees are terminal degrees giving their owners the highest amount of learning they can receive in their field.

Most Affordable Online Doctoral Programs

Completing the degrees necessary to enter into a doctoral program can be quite an expensive venture. Most potential doctoral students are anxious to cut expenses as much as possible. These schools provide the least expensive doctoral degree programs available online.

Methodology

The writers and editors of Online-PhD-Degrees.com gather the most important and relevant information from the independent, unbiased NCES.gov’s College Navigator , as well as, college websites and publicly available data including various highly respected sources.

Sponsored schools are, in fact, paid advertisements that are not in any way affiliated with OPD’s individual school rankings. They are distinctly defined with the word “SPONSORED” so as to not perplex our visitors with what the site editors, researchers and writers of OPD have methodologically researched and ranked. Independently sponsored schools pay for their placement on our site. For more information regarding our ranking methodology or our sponsored schools, please visit our methodology page.

Below is our list of the most affordable online schools that offer doctoral programs. We provide information on each school’s tuition, the doctoral degrees offered at the schools, and some introductory points about the way in which the online degrees are delivered.

This website will aid in that first step in preparing you for your path toward selecting an online college that works for you and your needs. Perusing each school’s website yourself and requesting information to be sent to you for your evaluation is highly recommended and encouraged.

20 Most Affordable Online Doctoral Programs

The Taft University System

The William Howard Taft University System offers some of the most inexpensive online doctoral programs. A private university which is based in Colorado, the Taft University System has been offering degrees since 1976. It became one of the pioneers of distance education and after the turn of the century began offering doctoral degrees as well.

The Taft University System offers 3 concentrations in Education and a Doctor of Business Administration. The minimum completion time for the online doctorates at the Taft University System is 27 months. Students are enrolled in one class at a time while completing other classes. The average completion time is 48 months.

Accreditation: Accredited by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $315 per credit hour

Online Doctorate Programs Available:

Doctor of Education in Leadership and Management
Doctor of Education in Charter School Administration
Doctor of Education in Technology and Leadership
Doctor of Business Administration

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT THE WILLIAM TAFT UNIVERSITY SYSTEM .

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University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota has one of the lowest costs per credit of all the schools on this list. UND offers the same tuition for their online programs as they do for in-state on-campus students. The University of North Dakota was founded in 1883, even before the state of North Dakota was established. It is now the state’s largest university.

According to its website, the University of North Dakota has “emerged as an innovator in energy, medicine, aviation, and unmanned aircraft systems.” This specialty shows in the type of online doctoral programs that are offered by the university, one of which is Aerospace Sciences. The University of North Dakota has a high success rate with 85% of the graduates working in the field of their education.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $511 per credit hour

Aerospace Sciences
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Energy Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Nurse Anesthesia
Nursing Practice
Petroleum Engineering

MORE INFORMATION ON ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA

University of Missouri

The University of Missouri, though it only offers one online doctorate, still has one of the most affordable online tuition rates. Mizzou Online offers over 100 online degrees and certificates and according to their website, the staff has a collective 600 years of experience in online and adult education.

The online doctorate that is offered at the University of Missouri is a Doctor of Philosophy in Human Environmental Sciences with an emphasis on Architectural Studies. This degree program consists of 72 credit hours and is delivered 100% online.

The minimum time to completion is 5 years but actual completion time will depend on the number of credits per semester.

Tuition: $542 per credit hour

Aesthetics of Design
Facility Management and Design
Inclusive design/Accessibility
Sustainable Design

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI.

Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University not only regularly receives accolades for its online program, it also provides affordable tuition. With 7 online doctoral programs in the field of engineering and one in Community College Leadership, Mississippi State charges under $500 per credit hour of doctoral learning.

Ranked in the top 20% for online military-friendly schools Mississippi State has “veteran-friendly distinctions” and is recognized as a “military spouse friendly” school as well. SmartAsset has listed Mississippi State as being the top “best value” school in Mississippi for three years in a row.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $537 per credit hour

Community College Leadership
Computational Engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Concentration in Aerospace Engineering
Concentration in Civil Engineering
Concentration in Mechanical Engineering
Industrial and Systems Engineering

MORE INFORMATION ON ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT MISSISSIPPI STATE

northwestern state university of louisiana

Northwest State University of Louisiana

Northwestern State University offers the same low rate of tuition for students acquiring their doctorates as for in-state students. Their low tuition gives doctoral students across the country the opportunity to take classes at one of the top online schools in the U.S.

Northwestern State University was founded in 1884 and became the parent of eNSU which was Louisiana’s “first and largest electronic campus.” eNSU offers “accommodating class schedules, personalized instruction, military benefits, and financial aid.

According to their website, eNSU is recognized as a top military-friendly school and one of the best Online Schools for Veterans. eNSU has over 40 online degrees and programs with two online doctorate programs available.

Tuition: $475-575 per credit hour

Doctor of Education in Adult and Learning Development
Doctor of Nursing Practice

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT THE NORTHWEST STATE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers in-state and out-of-state graduate tuition both for under $600 per credit hour which makes it one of the least expensive online doctorate offerings on this list. Old Dominion University is a public research university established in 1930 in Norfolk, Virginia.

Their student satisfaction rate is very high with a 2017 survey showing 97% of students either satisfied or very satisfied with their experience at Old Dominion. The online satisfaction rate was just a little lower at 95.9%. Old Dominion University offers 10 online doctorate programs in varying fields from Education to English to Instructional Design.

Tuition:

In-state: $599 per credit hour
Out-of-state: $1,439 per credit hour
Career and Technical Education
Educational Leadership with Licensure
Occupational and Technical Studies
Instructional Design and Technology
Nursing-Advanced Practice
Nursing-Nurse Executive
Public Administration and Policy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY.

Aspen University

Aspen University has one of the lowest tuition rates for online doctorates. Aspen is a private university located in Denver, Colorado, which has been offering distance education since 1987. Aspen offers “online doctoral degree programs in the high demand fields of Education (Ed.D.), Nursing (DNP) and Computer Science (DCS).

According to their website, Aspen University allows their doctoral students to obtain a graduate degree at their own pace through the completion of online coursework. The online doctoral programs at Aspen University are designed for students who are balancing school, family, or work commitments at the same time as pursuing higher education.

Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission

Tuition: $518 per month

Computer Science
Health Care Administration and Leadership
Higher Education Leadership
K12 Educational Leadership
Organizational Leadership
Organizational Psychology

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT ASPEN UNIVERSITY

Ball State University Online

Ball State University has a low cost for a high reputation for its online doctoral programs. In 2018, Ball State University earned high rankings from U.S. News and World Report. These include the 9th best online graduate education programs for veterans and the 16th best online MBAs.

Almost all of Ball State’s online programs are offered 100% online with no trip to the campus needed to complete the program. Ball State was the “first higher education institution in the country to earn Learner Support Program Certification for its online programs.”

This certification was provided by Quality Matters. Ball State is also ranked No. 8 by Victory Media on its list of Military Friendly Schools.

Tuition: $576 per credit hour

Adult and Community Education
Educational Administration and Supervision
Special Education
Higher Education and Community College Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT BALL STATE UNIVERSITY ONLINE.

Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington is the parent of Indiana University Online which offers some of the most affordable online doctoral programs. IUOnline began 5 years ago and has been very successful in bringing education to people at their convenience.

Not only do around 33% of Indiana University’s students take an online class but the online degree programs have increased by 46% since 2014. This brings the total online degree programs at IUOnline to 124 with 6 doctoral programs included. IUonline has a commitment to delivering “high-quality academic experiences and seamless services to online students.”

Tuition: $530 per credit hour

A few of the degrees are more per credit hour. However, in-state tuition for all doctoral degrees at Indiana University is under $600 with the exception of Nursing Practice.
Instructional Systems Technology
Literacy, Culture and Language Education
Occupational Therapy Post-Professional
Nursing Science
Public Health, Global Health Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT INDIANA UNIVERSITY BLOOMINGTON.

University of Colorado Denver

Colorado University Online makes the list as one of the most affordable schools at which to study for a doctoral degree. Depending on the degree one is seeking, the price for studying online at CU Online can be under $400 a credit. CU Online offers 28 online degrees including 3 doctorate degrees in the field of medicine.

CU Online is an affiliate of Colorado University Denver which has a strong medical presence in the Denver area, serving over 500,000 patients a year. The University of Colorado Denver is not new to the field of medicine, opening their Department of Medicine and Surgery in 1883.

The Department of Nursing at the University of Colorado Denver is 130 years old. The University of Colorado Denver is the largest public research university in Colorado.

$450-$720: In-State Graduate Tuition
$1,400-$1,549: Out-of-State Graduate Tuition
Doctor of Pharmacy – iPharmD
Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER .

University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas Online has some of the least expensive online doctorates available for those interested in pursuing a doctorate in Education or Nursing. Three out of the four online doctoral programs offered at U of A Online are under $500 a credit hour which makes the school one of the most affordable on this list.

The University of Arkansas was founded in 1871 and now has over 12,000 students taking at least one online course. The University of Arkansas Online was named one of the best online programs in graduate education by U.S. News and World Report.

At the University of Arkansas, “Online courses are designed by the academic colleges and schools at the University of Arkansas to produce the same learning outcomes as traditional, on-campus courses.”

Tuition: $438-$597 per credit hour

Doctor of Education in Adult and Lifelong Learning
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Doctor of Education in Human Resources and Workforce Development Education

LEARN MORE ABOUT ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS.

University of Louisiana Monroe

The University of Louisiana Monroe offers two inexpensive doctoral programs online. The Educational Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction and the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.

The coursework for the Doctorate in Education can be completed in as little as 24 months. The coursework for the Marriage and Family Therapy Doctorate can also be completed in a little over 2 years. These degree programs are offered by ULM Online at $500 per credit hour.

The University of Louisiana Monroe is a public research institution in Monroe, Louisiana which opened in 1931. ULM Online offers 30 online degree programs and maintains the same level of excellence in its online programs as it does on campus. According to their website, “ ULM students who learn online earn the same degree as our face-to-face students from an accredited and respected institution of higher learning. “

Tuition: $695 per credit hour

Curriculum and Instruction
Marriage and Family Therapy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA MONROE.

Texas A&M University-Commerce

Texas A&M University-Commerce has one of the least expensive online doctorates on this list. Only one online doctorate is available at Texas A&M, the Doctorate of Education in Educational Administration.

This degree has a K-12 public school administration emphasis and requires a strong commitment to education on the part of its applicants and students. “ The Department of Educational Leadership at Texas A&M University-Commerce prepares graduates for teaching, service, and leadership roles in a variety of educational, business, government and industry contexts .”

Accreditation: Southern Association on Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $758 per credit hour

Acceptance:

General requirements for admission into Graduate Studies at Texas A&M must be met.
3.40 GPA for master’s degree work
Letter of recommendation, administrative experience along with all departmental requirements
Two cohorts of doctoral students are accepted each year. Acceptance is competitive
Doctor of Education in Educational Administration

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY COMMERCE.

Liberty University

Liberty University Online is developing a reputation as one of the best online colleges, especially for the price. Liberty offers 9 different doctoral programs online which makes it one of the most diverse online schools on this list. The tuition for the programs varies from around $400 to $650 a credit.

Liberty Online is affiliated with Liberty University which was begun by Jerry Falwell in 1971. In 1985, Liberty began its distance learning program by sending VHS tapes to long-distance students. The University now has over 100,000 students with over 550 programs. Liberty Online has over 250 of these programs available for off-campus students.

Liberty University is a private, non-profit private institution and is one of the largest Christian institutions in the world based on student enrollment.

Tuition: $565-$615

Divinity D.Min.
Ed.D. Community Care and Counseling
Business Administration
Education Specialist
Ph.D. Counselor Education and Supervision
Ph.D. Higher Education Administration
Ph.D. Theology and Apologetics

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY.

Cal Southern University

Cal Southern University offers several online doctoral programs that are some of the most affordable available. The Juris Doctor Degree is $375 per credit hour and the Doctor of Psychology and Doctor of Business Administration Degrees are both $495 for each credit hour.

The online doctorates at Cal Southern University are applied or professional doctorates. Unlike academic doctorates, they are “more devoted to the advanced, practical application of theory in a professional setting.” The online doctorates at Cal Southern are offered by Cal Southern’s Schools of Business, Law, and Psychology.

Cal Southern University has a “state of the art” online library and offers flexible scheduling for those students who are balancing multiple responsibilities besides finishing their doctoral degrees.

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition: $250-$475 per credit hour.

Juris Doctor
Doctor of Psychology

LEARN MORE ABOUT ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT CAL SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY .

Montana State University

One of the most affordable online doctorates, the DNP degree at Montana State University Online has two concentrations. One can study to be a Nurse Practitioner focusing on Family/Individual studies or Psychiatric/Mental Health. Now Montana’s largest university, Montana State University was founded in 1893 in Bozeman, Montana.

Originally a land-grant institution, MSU serves its community well with over 8,500 students being from the state of Montana. Montana State University has maintained a high standard of academic excellence throughout the years.

According to the website of Montana State University, “During its most recent re-accreditation, MSU was commended for an ‘extremely high level of productivity and effectiveness.'” MSU is committed to maintaining this standard in its online degree programs as well.

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Tuition: $291 per credit hour

Nurse Practitioner, Family/Individual
Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric/Mental Health

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORATE OF NURSING PRACTICE AT MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY.

Governors State University

Governors State University offers in-state tuition to all online students making their online doctoral programs some of the cheapest available. Of the 5 online doctoral programs available at Governors State, two of them: Counselor Education and Supervision and Interdisciplinary Leadership are priced at only $477 per credit hour. Another online doctorate in Physical Therapy is $613 per credit hour.

Governors State University is a public university in Illinois, located 40 miles south of Chicago, that offers 64 degree programs to its students. According to its website, Governors State University has the most affordable undergraduate tuition in the state of Illinois. The online program at Governors State University offers over 200 online courses.

Tuition: $477-$797 – In-State Tuition

Doctor of Physical Therapy
Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Doctor of Counselor Education
Doctor of Interdisciplinary Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT GOVERNORS STATE UNIVERSITY .

Amridge University

Offering 9 different doctoral programs at low cost, Amridge University “has been a long-time leader in online education.” All of the programs at Amridge University use distance learning as the primary way of teaching.

According to their website, Amridge University has made it their goal to support their students from the beginning of their application and throughout their online experience. Amridge University was founded in 1967 and is a private university.

They offer “excellent scholarships and incentive discounts for Military Students, First Time Freshmen, Sister Institution Staff, Ministers, and Corporate Alliances.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges – 1866 Southern Ln. Decatur, GA 30033

Tuition: $535-$780 per credit hour

Organizational Leadership and Management
Interdisciplinary Studies
Ministry in Family Therapy
Higher Education Administration
Professional Counseling
Doctor of Ministry
Old Testament
New Testament

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY .

Johnson University

Johnson University offers one of the cheapest online doctoral degrees. The Doctorate in Leadership Studies is an interdisciplinary degree that focuses on “four dimensions of leadership studies.” These four dimensions are:

individual and personal systems,
organizational systems,
global systems,
and research.

The Ph.D. program is “rooted in a commitment to educating a whole person.” Johnson University is a private, Christian university based out of Kimberlin Heights, Tennessee. Founded in 1893, Johnson University is not only part of the educational scene but also the history of Tennessee.

Johnson University has two physical campuses, an online campus, and extended education programs that are located in many other states. Johnson University’s online program provides students with constant and direct access to their faculty.

One-on-one advising in their academic discipline as well as virtual library services and other academic resources are also offered to every online student.

Tuition: $945 per credit hour

Doctorate in Leadership Studies

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT JOHNSON UNIVERSITY.

University of Wilmington

Wilmington University offers 3 affordable doctorates 100% online. The price to enroll in one of these doctorates is $632 per credit hour which comes to around $1,896 per course.

Wilmington is located on 3 different campuses in New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland as well as on their online campus. Wilmington has 20,000 students enrolled and a 17:1 faculty-student ratio.

Wilmington University is a private, non-profit, doctoral research institution that was founded in 1968. According to its website, Wilmington University offers a high transfer of at 90 credits and is focused on providing career-focused degree programs.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $696 per credit hour

Higher Education Leadership and Innovation
Organizational Learning, Leadership and Innovation

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE DOCTORAL PROGRAMS AT WILMINGTON UNIVERSITY.

How can i make my doctorate program more affordable.

A doctoral degree program can be made more affordable by looking for programs that offer tuition discounts, tuition waivers, or scholarships. Students should also look into the cost of living in any potential locations and investigate loan and grant options.

Other cost-saving measures include taking courses online or part-time, depending on the availability of courses in the program. Additionally, some universities may offer stipends or fellowships to help offset costs.

How long will an online doctorate take to earn?

An online doctoral program can vary in the length of time it takes to complete. Generally, online PhDs take the same amount of time as an on-campus program would take. However, because online education is usually accomplished while working full time or completing other responsibilities, the classes may take longer for individuals to complete.

The average student in any Ph.D. program will take 8.5 years to complete their doctorate. Some programs may be completed in as little as three years. On average, one can expect to take five years to complete an online or on-campus Ph.D. program.

Things to consider when evaluating the time it takes to complete an online Ph.D. are:
The projected timeline proposed by the school for the program;
How many responsibilities and other duties one has outside of accomplishing the Ph.D.;
Whether or not one has credits that will transfer into the program and related to this;
Whether one will be able to test out of any proposed classes in the program.

Looking closely at the prescribed program as well as talking to your adviser and accurately adjudicating one’s schedule, will give a pretty close estimate of the time it will take to complete an online Ph.D. program.

What is the average cost of an online doctoral degree?

According to Guide to Online Schools, over 245 schools now offer an online doctoral degree. Doctoral degrees are offered online in various fields, including:

Literature,
Philosophy,
Public Health,
Technology,
Engineering,
and many others.

The cost of acquiring an online doctoral degree can be less than attending a traditional classroom, depending on the type of school one attends. The average tuition for a doctoral degree in a traditional setting is between $15,000-$20,000 a year (according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System).

According to NCES, public institutions offer the least expensive degrees, with traditional doctorates averaging around $11,000. Private Non-Profit Institutions, on the other end of the spectrum, cost around $25,000 a year. Private For-Profit Institutions cost about $14,000 a year for a doctoral degree.

More and more top public and private research institutions are offering online degrees, some of which are included on this list. The average cost of an online doctoral degree on this list is about $500 a credit, which comes to around $10,000 a year.

Are online doctoral degrees 100% online?

The list in this article of the most affordable online degrees only includes degrees in which the coursework can be completed 100% online. Often a doctorate will require one or several visits to campus as residencies, though many on this list do not require this.

A residency can be very helpful in forging connections, meeting classmates in person as well as doing intensive study, and working with faculty. If an institution advertises 100% online coursework, the residencies may be considered differently. However, with advancing technology, it is becoming more common for online doctorates to be able to be completed 100% online.

In a research field, the work in a doctorate is primarily intellectual and therefore doesn’t require on-site, hands-on experience. However, a field such as Chemistry has the option for physical research as well as theoretical. In these types of doctorates, a yearly residency may be necessary to complete the requirements for the degree. Technology has affected even these degrees, however, with the developing world of online labs.

How important is it for my online doctorate to be accredited?

When acquiring an online doctorate, not only should cost be a factor, but accreditation should be as well. The quality of a doctorate is monitored by accreditation. An applicant having an accredited Ph.D. may make a difference for an employer when looking to hire new employees.

Graduate programs may have regional accreditation and also a programmatic accreditation for the specific doctorate being offered. If one is looking to enter an academic field, having an accredited degree is very important as the accreditation will be noticed. Because serious academics usually have accredited degrees, one’s circle of colleagues and classmates will be of a higher caliber in an accredited degree program.

Only programs with accreditation can grant federal aid, which should also be considered. Another aspect of accreditation to consider is that transferring credits from one institution to another may only be possible if the credits were acquired from an accredited institution.

If you are already employed, and your doctorate will be covered by your employer, often the doctorate will have to be accredited in order to qualify for tuition reimbursement. In sum, advancing one’s career and financing one’s doctorate will both be affected by ensuring that a doctorate is accredited.

What are the usual prerequisites to enter an online doctoral program?

Most online doctoral programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s and master’s degree. These degrees can sometimes be in a related field, or some doctoral programs may require applicants to have a degree in the field they are entering.

A specific GPA requirement usually needs to be met in order to be accepted into a doctoral program. Another prerequisite may be work or experience in the field of doctoral studies. Entering an online doctoral program may require particular prerequisites in working with online technology.

Testing may be required throughout the doctoral program to ensure a student’s aptitude in their field of research. Applying for an online doctoral program will generally require the following:

Application Fee – usually between $50-$100
Application Form
Resume – including all work experience and education
Statement of Purpose – including generous information about why the doctorate is a good fit
Standardized Testing – usually, the GRE or the GMAT or a standardized test in one’s field may be required.
Letters of Recommendation – often, three letters will be required from former professors or colleagues in the field of study that one wishes to enter
Official Transcripts – from all colleges and universities attended
TOEFL – often required for those whose first language is not English

Most Affordable Online PhD Programs

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for postsecondary teachers to grow by 9% between 2019 and 2029. This growth rate significantly exceeds the average projected rate for all U.S. careers. Professionals need a terminal degree to attain this job or a related position. Aspiring professors and lecturers should research the cheapest online Ph.D. programs to make their career goals a reality.

“No matter the academic subject, a Ph.D. program instills the research, writing, and communication skills professors need to teach students, perform original research, and present findings to colleagues.”

No matter the academic subject, a Ph.D. program instills the research, writing, and communication skills professors need to teach students, perform original research, and present findings to colleagues. Affordable online Ph.D. programs convey these skills just as well as on-campus programs.

Recommended Online Doctoral Programs

Top 10 affordable online ph.d. programs, what is a ph.d..

An affordable online doctoral program consists of a mix of graduate-level coursework and original research. Students become subject matter experts by reading primary source documents, collaborating with peers, and performing experiments, depending on the subject. These courses give degree-seekers the tools necessary to write a dissertation.

Ph.D. students start the dissertation process once they complete core coursework. Working with an advisor, they select a research topic, perform research, and conduct experiments if necessary. They use the results to write the dissertation, an extended essay approximately 100-200 pages long. To receive a Ph.D., learners must also defend their dissertation in front of a dissertation committee consisting of their advisor and other professors.

Why Get a Ph.D.?

New Job Opportunities: A Ph.D. qualifies professionals to apply to tenure-track positions at colleges and universities. Professors with tenure can advance their career by becoming a dean or provost.
Increased Salary Potential: Postsecondary teachers earned a median annual salary of nearly $80,000 per year as of May 2019, and postsecondary administrators earned more than $95,000 per year . Salaries vary throughout the United States.
Make a Lasting Impact: College professors can make a lasting impact in their field by publishing original research. This research can influence how other professors and the general public regard a subject.
Mentor Students: Like K-12 teachers, postsecondary teachers not only instruct but also mentor students. Mentoring can improve students’ academic outcomes significantly and inspire the next generation of postsecondary teachers.
Personal Satisfaction: Earning a Ph.D. can take four or more years, depending on the subject. As a result, graduates often feel immense personal satisfaction.

Accreditation for a Ph.D. Program

Individuals researching the cheapest online Ph.D. programs should always determine whether the university that offers the degree is regionally accredited. In the United States, the Department of Education charters six agencies to evaluate postsecondary institutions in different regions. If a school’s programs meet specific standards, it receives accreditation, which it must renew every few years.

The cheapest online Ph.D. programs should also attain national accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The DEAC compares a school’s on-campus and online programs. If the latter offers the same rigor and learning outcomes, the school receives national accreditation.

Some of the cheapest online doctoral programs may advertise their programmatic accreditation status. Programmatic accreditation agencies evaluate a single academic program to ensure that it offers an excellent curriculum that prepares degree-seekers for their future career. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation maintains a list of all legitimate U.S. programmatic accreditation agencies.

Courses for an Online Ph.D. Program

Courses for online Ph.D. programs vary by academic subject. However, all affordable online doctoral programs convey essential skills that graduates need to succeed in academia. These skills include research, writing, and oral communication. Learners hone these skills by taking subject-specific courses and those focusing on dissertation research.

“However, all affordable online doctoral programs convey essential skills that graduates need to succeed in academia. These skills include research, writing, and oral communication.”

Most affordable online doctoral programs feature the courses below. Note that these courses represent a general overview, as titles and learning outcomes vary among universities. Prospective students can learn more about specific online Ph.D. programs by contacting schools’ academic departments.

Introduction to Graduate Studies

Most affordable online doctoral programs require that doctoral students pass this course in the first semester. Learners analyze research methods, practice academic writing, and explore different topics within the discipline. Course requirements may include writing a short thesis. The thesis allows professors to provide invaluable feedback that degree-seekers can apply in later courses and when writing their dissertation.

Research Methods

Over one or more courses, degree-seekers learn how to apply statistical analysis to research data. Mathematical topics include instrumental variables, regression, and other techniques. In class, students explore these concepts and master software programs that can help them during the dissertation research process. Research methods may also cover quantitative and qualitative research. Depending on the academic subject, professors modify the course to give learners the tools they need for academic and career success.

Participant Observation

Some of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs require degree-seekers to perform research that involves other people. Participant observation introduces students to different observation techniques, such as those in real-world and laboratory settings. The course also emphasizes ethnography — defining people’s customs and cultures through observation and research. Degree-seekers learn how to apply new research methods in the field, a skill they can carry over to their dissertation.

Graduate Research

In this course, students perform research that lays the groundwork for their dissertation. The course assigns each student a professor mentor. Professors and students meet several times throughout the semester, as professors help learners fine tune their research’s topic and scope. Some programs allow degree-seekers to take this course multiple times. However, a program may limit how many times students can attempt this course.

Dissertation Defense

After degree-seekers finish their dissertation, they perform a dissertation defense in front of their dissertation advisor and other faculty members. These professors make up the student’s dissertation committee. During the defense, learners present their research findings and answer questions from the committee. A typical committee asks degree-seekers to wait outside while they deliberate. If learners pass the defense, they earn a Ph.D. If they do not pass the first time, they can try again the following semester or academic year.

How Much Do Ph.D. Graduates Make?

The four most popular careers for Ph.D. graduates pay median salaries ranging from $58,110 to $95,410 per year . These positions include careers in academia and K-12 education. While earning one of the cheapest online Ph.D.s, learners can work with their advisors to take assessments, explore job paths, and review tips to make their resumes shine.

Geographic location and the economy also influence how much professionals with a Ph.D. make. The positions in the largest cities often pay more to attract the best candidates. However, the cost of living in cities often exceeds the cost of living in rural areas. Additionally, a poor economy may depress salaries as college and universities attempt to save money.

Professionals in academia possess multiple pathways to improve salary potential over their career. Professors can attain a tenure-track position that confers both a higher salary and job security. Others may decide to pursue a job in postsecondary administration. These jobs include academic dean, provost, or chancellor.

Career and Salary Outlook for Ph.D. Graduates

Four popular careers for Ph.D. graduates include postsecondary teacher, postsecondary education administrator, instructional coordinator, and career and technical education teacher. Each job offers a unique median salary and projected growth rate. The embedded links provide additional information about each job’s typical duties, salary, and growth rate in different states.

Postsecondary Teacher : These professionals work as professors or lecturers at colleges and universities throughout the United States. Typical job duties include teaching courses, creating curricula, and serving on committees. Many postsecondary teachers also perform original research and present their findings at national conferences. Adjunct professors cannot attain tenure and often earn less than tenured professors.
Postsecondary Education Administrator : At colleges and universities, these administrators oversee campus operations, academic standards, and admissions. Larger institutions employ multiple administrators to manage different departments. They report to a higher-level administrator or directly to the school’s president or chancellor. Many of these professionals possess significant teaching or managerial experience.
Instructional Coordinator : At K-12 schools, colleges, and universities, these coordinators use their extensive teaching experience to develop new curricula. They analyze students’ test results, collaborate with instructors, and mentor inexperienced teachers. Although some employers may require only a master’s for this position, a doctorate can make a candidate stand out in a crowded applicant pool.
Career and Technical Education Teacher : Schools that specialize in a specific career path, such as welding, auto repair, or culinary arts, employ teachers who possess both industry experience and honed instructional skills. Like K-12 and college educators, these teachers make lesson plans, mentor learners’ academic and personal growth, and ensure everyone’s safety. A Ph.D. may qualify these teachers for an administrative role or raise.

Source: BLS

Scholarships for Online Ph.D. Programs

The cheapest online Ph.D. programs may save degree-seekers money, but they still require a significant financial investment. However, prospective students can apply for numerous scholarships to help fund their education. The five awards below are just a few scholarships that help learners avoid debt. Click the embedded links to review application requirements and award amounts.

Army Nurse Corps Association Scholarship Who Can Apply: Active-duty service members and veterans who worked as military nurses can apply. Application requirements include earning an undergraduate or graduate degree in nursing and not receiving federal assistance to cover tuition costs. This scholarship also accepts applications from military spouses and other dependents. Amount: $3,000

Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship Who Can Apply: Digital Responsibility offers this award to undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers majoring in any subject. During the scholarship’s multi-step application process, applicants first submit a brief message about the risks associated with texting and driving. Digital Responsibility then selects 10 finalists, who write essays of 500-1,000 words to expand on their ideas. Amount: $1,000

Ford Emerging Voices Scholarship Who Can Apply: In partnership for the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM), Ford Motor Company awards funding to two women earning a graduate degree in any subject. Applicants must submit an essay and academic transcripts. Scholarship recipients receive more than money, as AWM asks them to write up to four posts for the organization’s blog. Amount: $1,000-$3,000

Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship Who Can Apply: Education authors Gen and Kelly Tanabe funded this scholarship to help degree-seekers fulfill their education goals. The scholarship committee considers only applicants’ personal essays. Recipients can use the scholarship for any education expense, such as textbooks or housing. Applicants can apply Aug. 1 – Dec. 31. Amount: $1,000

Return 2 College Scholarship Program Who Can Apply: This program awards funding to both recent high school graduates and nontraditional students earning an undergraduate or graduate degree. The short application does not require transcripts or test scores and only asks that applicants write three sentences describing why they want to earn a degree. Applicants must apply by the Sept. 30 deadline. Amount: $1,000

Most Affordable Online Ph.D. Programs

1. baker university.

Baker University was founded in 1858 as the first four-year college in Kansas. The only program of its kind in the region, the 59-credit Ed.D. in instructional design and performance technology (IDPT) teaches educators how to lead online learning and training in a variety of settings.

The Ed.D. in IDPT offers a fully online curriculum that learners can complete in just three years. The curriculum covers topics such as project management, design principles for instructional design, and instructional models and tools for online learning. Participants apply theoretical knowledge during fieldwork at a host institution or organization. Courses and fieldwork wrap up in two years, leaving a year for the dissertation process.

Learners pay a flat fee over three years, making this one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs in the region. Early enrollment rewards students with a $30 per-credit tuition discount. Baker ranks in the top 8% nationwide for return on investment, including job opportunities and earnings for graduates. No GRE scores are required for admission.

2. Bradley University

At Bradley University, students receive the personalized learning they can expect from a small college while benefiting from the institution’s significant resources. Bradley, located in Peoria, Illinois, offers an online Ed.D. in higher education for educators seeking postsecondary teaching or administrative roles.

Enrollees choose one of two pathways: community college or higher education leadership. All students explore topics such as learning in an era of technology and boards and educational governance.

During a two-semester internship, participants apply learning in real-world contexts as they build relationships and examine leadership challenges at an institution. During the dissertation process, students employ action research methodology embedded in the coursework. This program does not lead to state licensure or certification.

Students can complete the degree in as few as seven semesters. Enrollees pay the same competitive per-credit tuition regardless of residency. Admission to one of the nation’s most affordable online Ph.D. programs requires transcripts and a portfolio of achievements.

3. Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia University’s school of engineering established the Columbia Video Network (CVN) in 1986 so that working professionals can pursue graduate engineering degrees through distance education. Only students in Columbia’s MS in computer science can enroll in the 30-credit hybrid doctor of engineering science (DES) in computer science. Enrollees can pursue a specialization such as artificial intelligence, software engineering, or web technologies.

The school also offers CVN doctorate programs for non-Columbia students. The 30-credit hybrid DES in Earth and environmental engineering requires coursework and research focused on the impact of industrial and human activities on the environment. Engineers can also complete a hybrid DES in mechanical engineering or DES in electrical engineering through CVN.

The DES differs from the Ph.D. in that DES students can enroll on a part-time basis and must self-fund their education. However, students pay competitive tuition rates for the DES, making the degree an affordable online doctoral program. Admission requires GRE scores.

4. Concordia University-Chicago

Students at Concordia University-Chicago enjoy a rigorous, values-based education in the Lutheran intellectual tradition. The college relies heavily on e-learning to give learners access to CUC’s extensive catalog.

CUC offers several online doctoral programs , including a doctorate in business administration (DBA). The 60-credit program gives learners advanced leadership and management skills. The degree offers four specializations, including marketing innovations and strategic leadership and innovation.

CUC’s 61-credit Ed.D. in leadership offers 12 specializations. The program cultivates practitioner-scholars skilled in applying management, decision-making, and change management skills in educational and business contexts.

Professionals planning to pursue academic careers can opt for the 67-credit Ph.D. in leadership, which offers the same specializations as the Ed.D. but emphasizes research scholarship.CUC’s doctoral programs rank among the cheapest online Ph.D. programs due to flat and affordable tuition rates regardless of residency. Admission requires GRE or MAT scores.

5. Concordia University-Saint Paul

Part of a nine-college system affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, Concordia University-Saint Paul administers more than 100 programs. CSP’s online Ed.D. maximizes participants’ scholarship and leadership potential through a 64-credit curriculum. Faculty deliver the program’s 17 courses using both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Topics include leadership and scholarship, organizational theory, and data and quantitative analysis.

Faculty assign each student a leadership coach who serves as a mentor throughout the program. The program includes a K-12 internship that enrollees may use to help fulfill principal and other administrator licensure requirements. All participants must engage in two one-week, on-campus residencies in July.

CSP offers competitive tuition rates, payment plans, scholarships, and grants that help make this one of the nation’s cheapest online Ph.D. programs. Students also pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires transcripts, a writing sample, and recommendations.

6. Creighton University

Creighton University is a Jesuit Catholic college located in Omaha. About 2,000 Creighton students engage in online learning, representing about one-quarter of the school’s student population.

The school’s online doctoral programs focus on business and healthcare. The doctor of business administration provides a hybrid curriculum that emphasizes research, analytical, and critical thinking skills. With part-time enrollment, students can complete the 54-credit degree in just three years.

The hybrid DNP molds RNs into strong leaders and expert clinicians who embody compassionate nursing. Nurses can choose from multiple DNP tracks, supplementing online coursework with clinical experiences in their workplace.

The online doctor of pharmacy ranks among the top in the nation. Pharm.D. students complete 143 credits that advance their expertise in domains such as patient data collection, patient counseling, and medication therapy management and delivery. Creighton also offers an Ed.D. in interdisciplinary leadership.

Students pay the same affordable per-credit tuition regardless of where they live. Admission requirements vary for these affordable online Ph.D. programs, but students typically need not submit GRE scores.

7. Florida International University

Florida International University enrolls about 50,000 students on two campuses and at multiple centers in South Florida. FIU, a top 50 public college, boasts 20 years of experience delivering online programs and maintains a significant e-learning footprint. FIU Online’s 36-credit doctor of nursing offers several clinical specializations, including pediatric, adult gerontology, and family health.

All students complete courses that examine translational research, healthcare informatics, and patient safety and quality improvement. RNs supplement coursework with a clinical residency in their chosen specialty. A capstone project highlights their proficiencies.

FIU has a budget-friendly program designed just for working RNs. Students can help pay for tuition with a comprehensive suite of financial aid options, making the degree among the cheapest online doctoral programs for nurses. Admission requires no GRE scores.

8. Gonzaga University

In keeping with the school’s Jesuit heritage, Gonzaga University’s educational programs develop the whole person. Thirty years of distance learning experience makes Gonzaga a pioneer in innovative delivery systems. Located in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga offers online doctoral programs in leadership and nursing.

The 60-credit Ph.D. in leadership studies gives learners the flexibility to choose a dimension of leadership that drives their research. The 51-credit Ed.D. in educational leadership features a 24-month cohort. Students learn to use evidence-based practices and tools.

Gonzaga also offers a 28- to 78-credit DNP with entry points for those with a bachelor’s or master’s and specializations in family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

Gonzaga offers competitive tuition, financial aid opportunities, and payment plans to help make these degrees among the most affordable online doctoral programs in the country. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA.

9. Indiana University-Bloomington

Founded in 1820, Indiana University-Bloomington is the flagship institution of a seven-campus system. IU operates a robust virtual college that offers doctoral programs in nursing, education, and public health.

The 37-credit DNP prepares graduates for leadership roles in the field. With their cohort, students complete synchronous courses in one of four tracks. Nurses interested in a research-intensive doctorate may prefer the 90-credit Ph.D. in nursing science, a hybrid degree that offers specializations in nursing education, health systems, and clinical science.

IU also offers fully online Ed.D. programs in instructional systems technology and literacy, culture, and language education. While curricula vary, all students complete 60 credits and develop a dissertation in their specialization.

The 45-credit doctor of public health in global health leadership enrolls mid- to senior-level professionals who work within healthcare organizations and can impact public health outcomes. IU offers among the cheapest online doctoral programs thanks to competitive tuition and extensive financial aid opportunities. Some programs require GRE scores.

10. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University is one of the nation’s preeminent research institutions. Based in Baltimore, Johns Hopkins offers online doctoral programs in education, healthcare, and engineering. The School of Nursing offers a DNP with nine tracks, including executive leadership and adult-gerontological primary care nurse practitioner. RNs complete 24-43 credits in their specialization, supplementing coursework with clinical hours and immersions.

The School of Education’s 90-credit Ed.D. trains students to play an integral role in improving health outcomes. The 90-credit Ph.D. in education develops scholars with advanced research skills focused on policy analysis and education improvement. The Ph.D. in mechanical engineering has no formal curriculum. Instead, enrollees develop their own technical program incorporating coursework, research, and a dissertation. Johns Hopkins also offers doctoral programs in public health and molecular microbiology and immunology.

Online students pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Admission requirements vary for each of these affordable online doctoral programs.

11. Lewis University

Located in Romeoville, Illinois, Lewis University offers students a values-centered education inspired by the college’s Catholic and Lasallian heritage. The doctor of nursing practice builds on RNs’ clinical skills with an online curriculum that accommodates busy schedules and tight budgets.

The 30-credit curriculum emphasizes evidence-based performance, systems approaches, and quality improvement. RNs can save time and money by transferring almost half of the DNP’s 1,000 residency-hour requirement from an MSN-level practicum. All RNs present a scholarly project at one of the program’s two required immersions.

Lewis provides discounts and scholarships that help make this degree one of the cheapest online doctoral programs for nurses. Notably, graduate assistants receive tuition and fee reimbursement when they perform duties at Lewis’ College of Nursing and Health Sciences. DNP students pay the same per-credit tuition regardless of residency. Admission requires a minimum 3.25 GPA.

12. Michigan Technological University

Founded in 1885, Michigan Technological University educates some of the nation’s finest engineers. Distance learners can pursue the school’s online Ph.D. in mechanical engineering .

Students can choose from specializations in areas such as autonomous systems, intelligent systems, and molecular dynamics modeling. Participants engage in extensive research, complete a qualifying exam, and develop a dissertation.

The program ranks among Best Colleges’ top 20 schools for return on investment. Enrollees pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency. The department reports that 80% of Ph.D. graduates find jobs in the industry. Applicants need not pay a fee to apply to one of the nation’s most affordable online Ph.D. programs. Admission requires no GRE scores.

13. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

North Carolina State University at Raleigh ranks among the nation’s leading public research colleges. The school offers two online doctoral programs . The doctor of design suits established practitioners seeking to advance their expertise in applied design and innovation.

The 54-credit curriculum immerses students in research design and methodology in year one. Participants conduct extensive research and complete a dissertation during the rest of the three-year program. The program requires a week-long workshop each semester.

The 54-credit Ed.D. in education administration and supervision develops school principals. The curriculum, which leads to district/superintendent licensure in North Carolina, examines school law, educational finance, and the politics of P-12 education. Educators complete an internship and dissertation.

Students in both programs pay competitive tuition rates. Admission requires GRE or MAT scores.

14. Northwest Nazarene University

A comprehensive Christian college located in Idaho, Northwest Nazarene University blends faith and learning in all disciplines. The school’s two online doctoral programs equip educators with the competencies and credentials necessary to assume leadership roles in education.

The 66-credit Ed.D. in educational leadership focuses on the application of leading-edge professional competencies, including research skills, to advance K-12 education. Faculty allow Ed.D. enrollees to pursue a focus area of their choosing.

The 71-credit Ph.D. in educational leadership explores practices and policies that impact schools and school systems. The two degrees use a cohort model that students complete in 26 months. Both programs require two-week, on-campus summer sessions for dissertation and research activities.

The low tuition for both programs makes these degrees among the cheapest online doctoral programs for educators. Furthermore, students pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Admission to either degree requires an educational specialist degree or the equivalent.

15. Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University offers more than 200 master’s and doctoral options . The Stillwater-based college offers a fully online Ed.D. in applied educational studies with a specialization in aviation and space education. The 61-credit curriculum focuses on aviation leadership and executive development, covering topics such as aviation administration, aviation law, and aerospace risk assessment.

The 60-credit Ph.D. in fire and emergency management administration develops leaders in law enforcement, emergency management, homeland security, and similar fields. The hybrid curriculum explores topics such as the politics of disaster; hazard, vulnerability, and risk analysis; and emergency management and public policy.

Non-residents pay nominally more than their in-state peers. Active-duty military personnel pay in-state tuition rates. Scholarships help make these degrees among the cheapest online doctoral programs in the nation. Admission requires GRE scores.

16. Purdue University-Main Campus

Learners can join the ranks of Purdue’s more than 130,000 online students through select online doctoral programs .

Purdue offers a hybrid Ph.D. in higher education to prepare leaders to teach in two- and four-year colleges. Alternatively, the Ph.D. in educational leadership and policy studies prepares educators for PK-12 superintendent licensure. Both degrees require 90 credits and use a cohort model that incorporates online and in-person coursework, internships, and mentorship opportunities.

Purdue’s online JD prepares law students to sit for the California Bar Exam . Students can complete 92 credits in a fully virtual classroom in just four years. Purdue also offers an online DNP and innovative doctor of technology focused on STEM education.

Students enjoy competitive tuition regardless of residency, making these degrees among the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in the nation. Admission requirements vary by program.

17. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Recognized for innovative programs and cutting-edge research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center graduates more healthcare professionals than any institution in Texas. The school’s online doctoral programs include a fully online doctor of occupational therapy degree designed for licensed occupational therapists. Students complete 27-33 semester credits, including independent study and capstone projects.

A first of its kind in the Southwest, the doctor of science in physical therapy enrolls physical therapists who want to advance their expertise. The 78-credit curriculum blends web-based classes and laboratory experiences conducted during long in-person weekends.

TTUHSC also offers a hybrid DNP for RNs with a master’s degree. Through coursework focused on evidence-based strategies and leadership skills, the program cultivates clinical scholars who can improve population health in rural and urban settings.

In addition to competitive tuition, students benefit from tuition loans and scholarships . Admission to these affordable online doctoral programs requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and no GRE scores.

18. The College of Saint Scholastica

The College of Saint Scholastica blends academic rigor with Catholic Benedictine values. The school’s growing online platform includes one doctoral program designed for practicing physical therapists.

Experienced clinical practitioners teach the fully online transitional doctor of physical therapy curriculum. The condensed program requires only six classes. Working physical therapists examine topics such as pharmacology, healthcare policy, diagnostic imaging, and evidence-based practice.

The program enrolls physical therapists with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Students may transfer some credits into this program to save time and money. Learners study in small classes and pair up with a personal advisor who supports them throughout the program.

All students pay the same low tuition rate regardless of residency. Admission to one of the cheapest online doctoral programs for physical therapists requires official transcripts.

19. University of Florida

With more than 170 online degrees and certificates, the University of Florida ranks among the largest virtual colleges in the nation. UF Online’s doctoral degrees mostly focus on education and healthcare. The blended, 90-credit Ed.D. in educational leadership develops educational leaders who can apply research to practice at the school, district, and state levels.

The 54-credit Ed.D. in educational technology provides an option specifically for educators who plan to conduct research focused on the effective use of educational technology in school environments. A practice-focused DNP offers entry points for both BSN- and MSN-educated nurses. RNs complete 35-78 credits focused on innovation and evidence-based practice in the contemporary healthcare environment.

UF also offers online doctorates in Latin and Roman studies and higher education administration. Tuition varies depending on the program, but it remains consistently affordable. These affordable online doctoral programs require GRE scores for admission.

20. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s online doctoral programs focus exclusively on education. The 64-credit Ed.D. in education policy, organization, and leadership offers several concentrations, including global studies in education.

The Ed.D. in learning design and leadership also requires 64 credits. It emphasizes how to use new media to create more dynamic learning environments. A 64-credit Ed.D. in human resource development focuses on how to improve individual learning and workplace performance within organizations. All Ed.D. participants complete a dissertation regardless of their specialization.

Illinois charges the same affordable per-credit tuition for each program. Factoring in payment plans and financial aid options, Illinois administers some of the cheapest online doctoral programs in the nation. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA.

21. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa’s health systems program offers an online DNP . The program prepares RNs for administrative and leadership roles through a curriculum that emphasizes quality improvement and evidence-based practice and management. The program offers pathways for BSN- and MSN-educated nurses, requiring 44-83 credits depending on RNs’ educational background and chosen specialization.

Students can choose from specializations in areas such as health systems, family nurse practitioner, and adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner. Graduates leave the program with expertise in advanced nursing practice, healthcare policy, and population health interventions.

Incoming students may qualify for up to $3,000 per semester of DNP traveling scholarship funding, making this degree one of the cheapest online doctoral programs for nurses. Furthermore, the school offers a loan forgiveness program for RNs interested in teaching. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and no GRE scores.

22. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill classifies as a Public Ivy thanks to its elite academics. Distance learners can choose from two online doctoral programs : an executive doctor of public health (Dr.PH.) in health leadership or a transitional doctoral program in physical therapy (Transitional DPT).

The 45-credit Dr.PH. suits working healthcare professionals living in the United States or abroad. Enrollees can complete the degree in three years by blending virtual sessions with on-campus visits.

The 29-credit Transitional DPT program enrolls licensed physical therapists who want to advance their clinical knowledge and skills. The web-based curriculum allows clinicians to continue to work as they explore subjects such as advanced patient management and advanced clinical practice.

Applicants need not submit GRE scores for admission to two of the cheapest online doctoral programs at an elite college.

23. University of South Florida-Main Campus

The University of South Florida operates three campuses that serve more than 50,000 students in the Tampa Bay region. Students need not attend many classes on campus to earn the 59-credit Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction . The degree offers a concentration in career and workforce education that teaches students how to build and sustain systems that facilitate effective workforce development.

Learners study topics like emerging workplace competencies and vocational and adult education program planning. Students also complete a minimum of 10 research methodology credits. All students pay the same low tuition regardless of residency. Admission to one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in the nation requires GRE scores.

24. University of St. Francis

The University of St. Francis empowers students with a rigorous Catholic education that incorporates Franciscan values in keeping with USF’s namesake. USF Online administers doctoral programs in education and nursing.

The 60-credit Ed.D. in educational leadership combines coursework, research, and experiential learning components. Educators choose one of two concentrations: superintendent endorsement (hybrid) or leadership, learning, and stewardship (fully online). All Ed.D. students complete a common core that focuses on research, servant leadership, and dissertation experience.

The DNP trains nurses to address the needs of vulnerable populations. The 40-hour curriculum covers topics such as professional and organizational communication; healthcare policy, politics, and practice; and healthcare finance and practice management.

Competitive tuition and graduate financial assistance programs help make these degrees affordable online doctoral programs. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA.

25. Upstate Medical University

Part of the SUNY college system, Upstate Medical University is a distinguished hub of higher education, research, and patient care located in Syracuse, New York. The College of Nursing designs the part-time online DNP specifically for post-master’s nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists.

The 40-credit program develops clinical nurse experts skilled in health policy and advocacy, information technology, interprofessional practice, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum also explores legal and ethical issues and biostatistics for the DNP.

Nurses supplement coursework with targeted clinicals. Participants culminate the DNP with a final scholarly project grounded in clinical practice and evidence-based practice. The curriculum uses an asynchronous format and requires minimal on-campus visits. RNs can complete the degree in 2.5 years.

Financial aid opportunities and SUNY’s affordable tuition make this degree among the most affordable online doctoral programs for RNs in New York State. Admission requires no GRE scores.

Embrace the convenience of online learning and shape your own path to success.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

The 15 Most Affordable Online Doctorate Programs

Find your perfect school.

Finding the most affordable online doctorate programs may not be easy, but we are here to help! At one time, pursuing a doctorate while working full time was practically an impossibility. That’s no longer the case; with the continued progression of technology, it becomes easier and more affordable to attain a degree without ever having to step foot in a classroom.

According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics, investing in a doctorate is financially rewarding, as on average someone with a doctoral degree earns $2,513 more per month than someone with a bachelor’s degree and $1,473 more than someone with a master’s degree.

Statistically, those with doctorates also have the lowest rate of unemployment , 2.5% – compared to 4.1% of those with master’s degrees and 5.5% of those with bachelor’s degrees.

METHODOLOGY

Let us help you find the most affordable doctorate school program that fits your educational requirements for starting a new career, a job promotion, or simply meeting your personal goals. Our researchers at PremiumSchools.org utilize these indicators of excellent academic standards to locate exceptional doctoral degree programs designed just for you, and… your wallet.

The following schools are listed in random order. As every school displays its unique qualities and strengths, you should search our list based on your needs, career aspirations, and affordability.

The following factors were considered:

Offers online classes for flexible or convenient attendance without compromising hands-on training,
Exhibits rigorous, yet engaging and innovative training in doctorate coursework that takes into account the readiness of students to take the next step in their budding careers,
Taught by outstanding faculty consisting of experts experienced at the doctoral level,
Held in high esteem among academic agencies, industry organizations, and journalistic resources,
Displays stellar reviews and feedback from school alumni and students,
Offers a convenient application process,
Provides exceptional Student Career Centers, Resource Departments, and easy-to-use Learning Management Systems, where applicable,
Permits a wide range of scholarships, grants, and other financial support programs for eligible students,
Ensures the proper Accreditation in accordance with academic standards.

If you would like to learn more about our selection process, feel free to see our Methodology page!

Please note that the below-mentioned tuition costs are approximate at the time of this publishing, for they may differ from program to program. Please check school websites for the most up-to-date pricing information.

15 MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTORATE PROGRAMS

American college of education.

Online Doctorate in Education

Incorporated in 2005, the American College of Education was established with the goal of providing high-quality, affordable, and accessible online programs. American College of Education is a B Corporation and a Dallas-based ACE Holdco PBC subsidiary.

ACE currently offers an extremely rigorous and demanding 64 credits Doctorate of Education in Leadership program with nine separate concentrations for students to choose from, including International Education, Instructional Leadership, Online Education, STEM Leadership, Higher Education, and Early Childhood Education.

You can achieve your EdD faster if you have a master’s degree from ACE or an EdS or All But Dissertation (ABD) from another university. If you ever need assistance or guidance, you can easily reach out to professors and mentors as they are attentive and supportive of your success.

Tuition is very affordable at $306 per credit.

Accreditation:

Higher Learning Commission

Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs in Education at the American College of Education ’s website .

Did You Know?

ACE is well-known for its annual Alumni Achievement Award, which includes travel expenses of up to $1,000 to and from commencement, an Alumni Achievement Award plaque, a speech during commencement, and publicity through a media release.

Montana State University

BSN to DNP Degree in Various Options

Montana State University was originally founded in 1873 as the Agricultural College of the State of Montana; 144 years later, MSU is the state’s largest university, having a student population of over 15,000 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1.

Montana State University currently offers online Doctorate in Nursing Practice programs, specifically a BSN to DNP in Family/Individual, a BSN to DNP in Psych/Mental Health, and an MN to DNP. The DNP degree, which was founded in 2013, will prepare you for advanced practice nursing by providing you with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to deliver clinical expertise, judgment, scholarship, and leadership at the highest level of nursing practice in primary health care settings.

You will be guided through the clinical elements by certified and experienced advanced practice registered nurse instructors and preceptors. You will direct your DNP academic projects in collaboration with doctorate teachers nationally known for their breadth and depth of knowledge.

The college provides educational preparation and exciting opportunity to practice in Montana’s rural and frontier locations. Graduates will be qualified for national APRN certification as well as population-specific licensing

Tuition includes $2,783 per semester for residents, or $8,844 per semester for non-residents.

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Would you like more info about the Affordable Online BSN to DNP Programs? Take a look at MSU’s website !

MSU’s fraternity and sorority system dates back 102 years. Until the 1980s, all Montana State University first-year students were given green beanies during the first week of orientation. Freshmen were required to wear the beanies during the first week of class to show their status as new enrollees. Anybody caught without a beanie would be placed in stocks in the middle of campus.

William Howard Taft University

Doctor of Education (Ed.D) Programs Online

William Howard Taft University originally began by offering continuing education programs to certified public accountants in 1976. Since then, the school has become a specialized institution of distance education.

The university currently offers online programs for a Doctorate of Education with three available concentrations; Leadership & Administration, Educational Technology, and Charter School Administration. Each concentration has a total of 60 credits, which students need to attain to graduate with an EdD from the University.

Before proceeding to the Core Courses, you should complete all Qualifying Courses and the Qualifying Examination. Before moving to the Dissertation/ADP Phase, you should complete all Core Courses and the Comprehensive Examination.

The program offers two modalities to its students; Independent Study and Directed Study. This option will allow you to transition from work to study efficiently. If you choose an Independent Study, you can begin the program on any six start dates throughout the year. If you choose the latter, you can start your studies on one of three different dates each year. Visit the Academic Calendar to learn more about the start dates.

Tuition is $360 per credit.

Accreditation :

Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)

Are you interested in career advancement? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs at William Howard Taft University’s website.

William Howard Taft University was named after the 27th US President, William Howard Taft. Taft was the first president to throw out the first pitch of the baseball season, starting a tradition that is still going on today. The Washington Senators faced the Philadelphia Athletics in a game in 1910. The Senators triumphed 3-0.

Valdosta State University

Online Doctorate Degrees in Education and Public Administration

Valdosta State University originally began as South Georgia State Normal College. The school has come a long way since its opening in 1913, from a college for women – with offerings in a two-year course in teacher preparation – to a flourishing university with over 11,000 students, which is part of the University System of Georgia.

Valdosta currently offers three 54-55 credit programs at the Doctoral level: A Doctorate of Education in Curriculum and instruction: Learning and Development, a Doctorate of Education in Leadership, and a Doctorate of Public Administration.

You will benefit from their high-quality instructors, who have real-world experience and knowledge through years of learning, researching, and working in their respective fields. The recommended Ed.D. The course sequence will allow you to complete the program’s course requirements in 24-30 months. However, you should note that all Doctorate programs in the university only accept regular students.

eTuition is $293 per credit hour.

Accreditation:

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033 404.679.450

Valdosta has several doctoral options – Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Education Programs at Valdosta State University.

Valdosta State University was known as Georgia State Women’s College, an all-girls school. In 1950, it became coeducational, and the name was changed to Valdosta State University.

University of West Georgia

Online Doctorate of Education with Concentrations in Professional Counseling & Supervision, School Improvement & Nursing

The University of West Georgia originally began as an agricultural and mechanical university, established in response to a call for “more realistic educational programs for rural youth.” Today, UWG has a student population of over 12,000 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1.

The University of West Georgia offers five online Doctorate of Education programs, with majors in Higher Education Administration, Psychology: Consciousness and Society, Professional Counseling and Supervision, School Improvement, and Nursing Education. All three programs contain 60 credits and are designed to be completed in two to three years, depending on how many courses you enroll in each term.

Courses in each degree track are offered entirely online in an asynchronous fashion; however, you must attend a two-day on-campus orientation before beginning your first semester. You will also need to visit the campus to defend your dissertation.

Tuition begins at $241 per credit hour.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Learn more about the Affordable Online Educational Doctorate Programs at the University of West Georgia ’s website.

Until the fall of 1965, no African-American students were admitted to the college. A teacher at Carver High Institution (a segregated school), Jeff Long, urged students to apply for admission to West Georgia in 1955 and 1956. Every senior applied, and every kid was turned down because of their color. Dr. Beheruz N. Sethna (President of UWG from 1994 to 2013) apologized to the Carver class of 1955 in 2002. A scholarship fund was established for the children of Carver students who were denied entrance.

Delta State University

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program with Four Options

Located in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University was established in 1925. Its staff at the time consisted of a president, business manager, dietitian, and nine teachers, and its first graduating class had only 13 students. Today, DSU has over 3,000 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1.

Delta State University currently offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice program with four program options: 69 credits RN-DNP, BSN-DNP, 69 credits Post Master’s (Non-FNP) DNP, 31 credits Post Master’s (FNP) DNP – which vary in completion time from a year and a half to four and a half years. The program was created by the Robert E. Smith School of N u rsing , which has stable national rankings and a tremendous track record of producing high-paying practitioners.

Non-FNP totals 1,020 clinical hours plus 420 scholarly project hours, while FNP scholarly project clinical hours are only 420. However, students with a master’s degree will not be required to complete as many clinical hours as students in other pathways. Furthermore, part-time options are offered for all tracks to assist students with demanding work or family responsibilities. Students will, nevertheless, need to plan several on-campus trips each semester.

Tuition for graduate programs, part-time is $442 per hour.

Are you looking to advance in your nursing career? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs in Nursing at Delta State University.

Delta State is well-known for its school mascot, the Fighting Okra, and you don’t see that every day. The Fighting Okra is Delta State University’s unofficial mascot and an urban legend. It emerges on campus during unexpected times, mostly to annoy students and athletes.

Walden University

Online Doctoral Degree Programs with Many Areas of Study

Founded in 1970, Walden University now has over 60 online degree programs and over 300 specialties and concentrations. Walden lets students attain the worthwhile aims that underpin its motto: “A higher degree. A higher purpose.” With the mission of providing opportunities for adults in the workforce to pursue doctoral degrees, Walden University is now a fully accredited university that offers online courses at all degree levels.

Walden has 25 online doctoral programs with over 150 specializations in nine different areas of study: Business Management, Criminal Justice, Social Work and human Services, Education, Nursing, Psychology and Counseling, Public Health and Health Sciences, and Public Policy and Administration.

All program allows up to 45 credits for transfer for a faster completion time of two to three years, with widely accessible online resources. Furthermore, new students can connect with an experienced Ph.D. student who can offer advice, recommendations, and direction.

Tuition costs vary widely, depending on your chosen area of study.

With 25 online doctoral programs, how can you go wrong? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs at Walden University .

More than 90% of Walden University’s academic members hold doctorates. State teachers of the year, competitive award winners, Fulbright scholars and specialists, and present and past board members for professional and humanitarian organizations are among Walden’s staff.

Governors State University

Doctorate of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership Distance Learning Degree Program

Founded in 1969, Governors State University and its 750-acre campus are located just 30 miles south of Chicago, Illinois. The University currently has a student population of around 6,000 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1.

Governor State University offers a 60-hour online Doctorate of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership program, with 33 of those 60 hours spent in one of four unique concentrations: Higher Education Administration, Superintendent (P-12), and Not for Profit/ Social Entrepreneurship Leadership.

This curriculum will prepare you for leadership positions in academic and educational institutions such as K-12 schools, colleges and universities, post-baccalaureate training programs, school districts, education non-profits, and government agencies.

You’ll focus on skills and themes such as organizational leadership, educational program assessment, fostering diversity in academic settings, conducting scholarly research, and leveraging research findings to improve educational outcomes.

Tuition is $477 per credit hour for residents.

Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership Program at Governors State University.

When others only talk about environmental sustainability, this university likes to set an example for its students, which is why it operates one of the state’s largest solar-powered systems. They’ve also installed a wind turbine. Students not only graduate from college with book knowledge but also with practical experience.

Oakland City University

Online Doctor of Education Degree Program with Three Specializations

Oakland City College was founded in 1885 but didn’t officially open its doors to students until 1891. OCU is the only university in the country to be linked with the General Baptist Church. Since achieving University status in 1995, OCU has grown to have an enrollment of over 1,400 students, while keeping the student-to-faculty at a low ratio of 12:1.

Oakland City University’s online Doctor of Education program consists of at least 60 credit hours, not including the obligatory 30 credit hour master’s degree. However, other graduate-level work may be given additional credit. The doctorate program offers three specializations: Superintendency, Curriculum and Instruction, and Organizational Management. Students in the program participate through Cohort Groups that are established each academic year and contain no more than 16 students.

Each specialization is a terminal degree that requires students to go through rigorous research, analysis, implementation, and site-based practice procedures. In addition to completing coursework, you have to do an intensive internship incorporating an action research study, a cultural diversity project, and a capstone paper/project.

Tuition is $450 per credit hour.

Are you ready to take your career to the next level? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctorate Programs at Oakland City University .

The magnificent Verdin custom-constructed 50′ clock and bell tower that greets you as you enter the school is dedicated to the passing of Jerry Phillips, Class of 1959, and professor from 1963 until retirement in 2001. Furthermore, the clock represents the minutes and hours of faculty and staff service, reminding them of the passage of time as they pass by. The bells should remind everyone to examine the quality of their obedience and count their minutes through honesty, fairness, and loving kindness. Talk about traditions!

National University

Ten Online Doctorate Degree Options

National University was founded in 1996 to build upon the education foundations pioneered by the world’s brick-and-mortar universities while using the Internet to offer a new form of quality education.

NU currently offers 23 online doctorate programs, including Doctor of Education, Doctor of Business Administration, and Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. National University takes a unique approach to the idea of student-teacher mentors. Students are partnered with one faculty member for each course, creating a class size of one and ensuring that students have a more personalized learning experience.

The one-on-one format is convenient, and personal attention is ideal for expanding your knowledge and getting higher degrees while working full- or part-time. However, do not expect to be spoon-fed. You must fulfill the high criteria, or you will fail, as is the case in most other prestigious schools of higher learning.

Tuition costs vary widely, depending on the area of study.

WASC Senior College and University Commission

Not sure which direction you want to go in? Take a look at all of the affordable Online Doctorate Programs that the National University has to offer.

National University employs only doctoral-level staff, the majority of whom have completed their program of study at a regionally authorized institution of higher learning in the discipline in which they teach or create curriculum.

University of Kansas

Online Doctor of Medicine

Originally established in 1865, the University of Kansas has grown to encompass 13 schools and 27,000 students spread across their five campuses (Lawrence, Kansas City, Overland Park, Wichita, and Salina).

The University of Kansas currently offers three of the most affordable online doctor of medicine degree programs: a Clinical Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology, a Doctor of Occupational Therapy, a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy.

Their DNP program has separate curriculums for those who have completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree or a Master of Science in Nursing degree. Aside from the online Doctor of Medicine, the university also offers a doctorate in Audiology, Education, Musical Arts, Engineering, and Doctor of Philosophy.

If you ever decide to enroll in the School of Medicine and live anywhere near Wichita and Kansas City, you can volunteer at the JayDoc Free Clinics. You’ll run clinics for non-emergency and preventative care to the city’s uninsured and underinsured populations. If you are from or near Salina, you have the opportunity to help with medical care at Ashby House, a facility for a vulnerable population.

Tuition varies per credit hour. See the University of Kansas’ website for details.

Check out these Affordable Online Doctorate Program options at KU’s website.

The University of Kansas is home to the state’s only professional pharmacy and medical schools. Furthermore, KU’s Cancer Center is the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated facility.

Washburn University

Online nursing doctoral degrees.

Washburn University was established in 1865 by members of the Congregational Church to create an institution to provide education to all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or income. WU has a student population of around 6,500 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1.

Washburn University has three online Doctor of Nursing Practice programs: BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP with APRN-NP, and MSN to DNP without APRN-NP. DNP students receive a minimum of 1000 hours of direct patient care through preceptor-guided clinical experiences.

At the time of program enrollment, an MSN to DNP applicant who is nationally certified as a nurse practitioner may be given up to 500 clock hours toward the minimum 1000 clock hour requirement.

Tuition begins at $682 per credit hour.

Would you like to know more about Washburn University’s affordable online Doctorate degrees in Nursing? Take a look!

Washburn’s DNP degree focuses not only on the medical aspect but also places a heavy emphasis on entrepreneurship. This is the first DNP program in the country that includes MBA courses in the curriculum. With a strong focus on entrepreneurship, you can combine advanced practice knowledge and abilities with excellent business acumen.

Johnson University

Ph.D. in Leadership Studies Online

Johnson University, founded in 1893 as the School of Evangelists, was originally established under the principle “Open day and night to the poor young man who desires above every other desire, to preach the Gospel of Christ.” Today, Johnson is a private, Christian university with a relatively small student population of only 1,171, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1.

The Ph.D. in Leadership Studies program from Johnson University can be completed entirely online and is offered with six major concentrations: Educational Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Ministry Leadership, Philosophy Leadership, Theology Leadership, and Missional Leadership.

This degree is a 60-credit hour multidisciplinary program created for working individuals who want to learn about leadership through the lenses of the individual, organization, and society.

Aside from focusing only on information exchange, the school also gives extra attention to student-student and student-teacher communication and connection, thus a cohort-based program. You will be working with other students, professors, and alumni throughout the program duration.

Tuition is $675 per credit hour.

Learn more about the online Ph.D. in Leadership program at Johnson University.

Johnson University hosts one of the best annual Research Summit, including brief seminars led by professors and/or guest speakers and face-to-face networking with faculty and peers. These Research Summits are entirely optional, but doctoral students enrolled online can attend.

Old Dominion University

Online Doctorate Degrees in Nursing and Education

Founded in 1930, Old Dominion University was originally established as the College of William and Mary, the second oldest university in the United States (royally founded in 1693). Since earning its independence in 1962, Old Dominion has continued a steady pattern of growth, today it has a student population of 24,672 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees.

Old Dominion offers eight online doctorate degree programs, including Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Philosophy in Education. FNP, PMHNP, and Nurse-Midwifery specializations are the only specializations available for full-time students. Full-time and part-time study options are available for the other doctoral degrees.

All tracks necessitate a total of five campus visits. The full-time plans are expected to take two years to complete. Part-time programs have varying completion times. Students should expect to spend three to six hours per week on coursework per credit.

Tuition is $551 for Virginia Residents and $595 for out-of-state students.

Need more info? Learn more about the Affordable Online Doctor of Nursing Practice Program at Old Dominion University.

Old Dominion University takes its name from one of Virginia’s state nicknames, “The Old Dominion,” which was bestowed upon the state by King Charles II of England in recognition of the state’s devotion to the throne during the English Civil War.

Liberty University

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Liberty University was founded in 1971. They are based in Lynchburg, VA, and have grown from 154 students to over 15,000 residential students. As a faith-based school with Christian values, they will prepare you for life, teaching you the skills you need to succeed in your career, as well as your personal life.

Liberty University offers 54 credit hours online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership degree program if you are interested in taking your career in education to the next level.You’ll learn about best teaching practices, university administration, and the historical development of the American higher education system, among other things.

Your research courses will lead to a capstone project that will promote real-world application. With a capstone project, you will conduct your own research and contribute new knowledge to the field.

Tuition for Educational Doctoral degrees begins at $650 per credit hour.

Check out additional information about Liberty University’ s affordable Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership online degree program.

Residential students must complete 20 hours of community service per semester as part of Liberty University’s goal of servant leadership and service. As a result, they volunteer over 300,000 hours in the community and on campus each year. In addition, the university launched LU Send Now. They have already had teams assist in the aftermath of disasters such as the floods in South Carolina and tornadoes in Mississippi.

Traditional brick-and-mortar doctoral degree programs are expensive, and tuition costs are a major deterrent for most. They also appear to be unsustainable, particularly for people who work full-time. However, depending on your area of focus, many doctoral programs – especially online versions – are within reach.

Generally, you can find reasonably priced doctoral or Ph.D. programs in healthcare, education, or business-related subjects, as they are the most popular. So, don’t put off achieving your academic goals any longer, sign on today and get started earning your doctorate!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Doctoral degrees are the highest educational achievement imaginable, and only a few people hold this degree. They bring with their prospects for promotion, new opportunities, and prestige. While obtaining a doctorate often leads to increased compensation and leadership in your profession, it also necessitates a significant financial commitment. Below are the few known to be affordable online Doctorate fields:

Business Administration
Organizational Leadership

Most Affordable Doctorate Programs - fact

Finding an online Ph.D. program directly related to your profession can be difficult, but it is possible if you ask the correct questions.

Once you’ve reduced your options down to a few key players, you’ll want to take a few more steps to evaluate the program entirely—and the results you can expect. It is best to meet or speak with the program chair and ask five significant questions concerning its accrediting authenticity and the student experience.

Are you accredited on a regional or national level? And what is the state of your accreditation?
How easy is it to get in touch with the mentors here?
What is it like to be an online student at this university?
What resources will I have access to as part of this program?
Will I be able to get help with my dissertation?

If you have any worries about the accrediting agency’s legality, check to see if it is recognized by one of two authorities: the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education . The latter features a College Navigator service that allows students to check the accreditation of any institution they are thinking about attending.

The cost of tuition for online Ph.D. programs varies. Costs are affected by various factors, including program length, available financial aid, and whether the school is private or public. Doctoral programs typically provide more financial assistance than master’s programs. According to EducationData.org , the average cost of a Ph.D. degree is $114,300. However, you can find a quality program with tuition costs of approximately $400 to $600 per credit hour.

Many institutions provide financial aid to full-time online Ph.D. students, and there are no differences in application, requirements, or qualifications between on-campus and online programs. In general, doctoral students are eligible for student loans, assistantships, and scholarships. Furthermore, many corporations/companies assist their employees who desire to pursue a Ph.D. and help finance students’ tuition and research fees.

Interested students can apply for various scholarships to assist their studies. The six grants listed below are just a few examples of scholarships that might help students avoid debt.

Army Nurse Corps Association Scholarship

Active-duty servicemembers and veterans who worked as military nurses can apply for financial assistance of up to $3000. This scholarship is also open to military spouses and other dependents.

Don’t Text and Drive Scholarship

This scholarship is available to candidates majoring in any subject from Digital Responsibility. Scholars that are selected will get up to $1000 in financial assistance.

ACS Cancer Nursing Scholarship

The American Cancer Society provides this scholarship to Ph.D. candidates for two years at a time, with the opportunity to extend the award for another two years after the initial award period. Preferred recipients are pursuing careers as nursing scientists in cancer nursing research. Scholars can receive up to $15,000 in financial aid.

NLN Foundation for Nursing Education Scholarship

The National League for Nursing is the only membership organization in the United States that provides Ph.D. scholarships to nurse educators. The award aims to contribute to a diverse workforce of nurse educators by assisting master and doctorate students in entering the field and advancing the cause worldwide. Scholars might get up to $8000 in financial aid.

SMART Scholarship

The SMART Scholarship for Service Program, which stands for Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation, provides tuition assistance to students at all levels of study, including Ph.D. students, in one of 19 STEM-related fields of study. Recipients receive a full scholarship for tuition and fees, a health insurance allowance, and a stipend for personal costs. Furthermore, after completing their particular degree program, recipients have assured job placement with the Department of Defense (DoD).

Ford Emerging Voices Scholarship

In collaboration with the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM), Ford Motor Company provides financing to two women pursuing a graduate degree in any area. Scholars might get up to $3000 in financial aid. However, scholarship awardees earn more than just money because AWM requires them to publish up to four blog articles for the organization’s blog.

At PremiumSchools.org, we strive to bring you the most updated information on affordable tuition program options. Check out these rankings:

The 10 Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The 15 Most Affordable Master’s Degree Online Programs
15 Affordable Speech Pathology Graduate Programs
The 15 Cheapest Online Art Schools
The 20 Fastest Ph.D. Programs

Malcolm Peralty Chief Editor

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A PhD or doctorate crossing a spectrum of fields – education, technology, healthcare, among others – is the ultimate attainment signifying your mastery over a particular domain, and the most advanced degrees are available online.

Here, we’ll handhold you through the best online phd cheap programs that minimize student debt, inspire you to contribute original research, teach others, and bring impactful change.

We’ve mentioned the school’s Carnegie classification, research activity, rankings methodology, and probable graduate earning potential to guide you in making an informed choice regarding the right degree.

American College of Education . A private-for-profit providing distance learning in four significant disciplines – leadership, education, nursing, and healthcare. Students have a choice of seven cheap online phd degrees in these disciplines, highlighting the following domains:

Curriculum and Instruction

Instructional Technology

Second Language Instruction

Nursing Education

Public Health Education

Course completion could be three years or less, considering the student’s academic background, work-life balance, and intended career path.

The U.S. Department of Education’s Higher Learning Commission bestows accreditation to ACE’s doctoral degrees.

UA’s online doctoral degrees enjoy massive popularity, with nearly 42 percent of its students opting for off-campus online courses.

The University of Alabama offers one of the cheapest phd online in Communication, Engineering, and Leadership, covering the following happening fields:

Communication and information sciences

Mechanical engineering

Education leadership

Special education

Nursing Practice (DNP)

The student’s knowledge and domain expertise are honed to advance academic growth and expand professional opportunities in public and private services and industrial sectors.

UA’s Carnegie Classification is high, and accreditation body SACSCOC extends accreditation for UA’s phd online cheap associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctorate degrees.

The average SAT is 1080-1340, and financial aid benefits over 79 percent of the student enrollment.

Texas Tech University , with a humongous following exceeding 7,000 students, offers ten of the cheapest online phd degrees focusing on education, helping graduates dig deeper into teacher education, program development, and evaluation.

TTU offers nine of the cheapest online phd programs in the world in Higher Education Administration, Special Education, and Philosophy in Curriculum plus instruction through the Texas eLearning and Academic Partnerships initiative.

Additionally, an online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership helps students focus on problem-shooting educational best practices, implementing beneficial interventions, and leading the way to impactful and instructional change in the education sector.

The SACSCOC awards accreditation extending to TTUs associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctorate degrees and certificates, and the university’s Carnegie Classification is top-rated.

The average SAT is 1070-1260, and financial aid benefits over 78 percent of the student enrollment.

The vibrant innovation hub, CITL, Illinois , attracts a 20,000 student following, with 47 percent of students attending online courses, competing for five top-rated cheapest phd programs online.

Diversity and Equity in Education

Global Studies in Education

Human Resource Development

International Education Administration and Leadership

Learning Design and Leadership.

Please note that these are some of the cheapest online phd in the world, customized primarily with teachers in mind, bestowing impeccable credentials necessary to impact students meaningfully.

The EdD in Human Resources is also tailor-made to kickstart careers in the business ecosystem.

The Illinois University’s Carnegie Classification rides high, and accreditation is by the Higher Learning Commission, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The University of Illinois SAT score averages 1210 to 1470, and financial aid options benefit 64 percent of students.

AU has an online student graduate 3000-strong community enrolling for seven of the cheapest phd online programs in three highly evolving fields – education, nursing, and technology. Prized programs are:

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The online EdD in Leadership and Learning targeting mid-career professionals.

Doctor of Science in Computer Science (DSCS)

The Distance Education Accrediting Commission, or DEAC, a Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) member, is primarily responsible for the accreditation of all Aspen’s doctoral degree programs.

Most Affordable and Cheapest Online PhD Programs: Your questions answered here

Research and professional doctorates are available online; the courses much in demand among working professionals are the following: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

The online route helps students manage their career goals without the discomfort of a residency stipulation, as the coursework can be built around professional commitments without dislocation.

Online and in-person courses have similar requirements – admission norms, a minimum bachelor’s degree with a higher GPA, a competitive GRE or entrance exam score, and submission of outstanding references and erudite personal essays.

The time and effort you put into developing and conducting primary research is similar. In online courses, students can expect a few on-campus meetings, topic-customized conferences, some practicums, or residencies lasting two days to two weeks.

The online system requires the same time management skills, excellent communication, and meticulous adherence to project deadlines.

The acceptability of a program and its credibility rests with the accreditation awarded to the university. Accreditation indicates that the university’s capabilities and infrastructure have been independently evaluated to ensure Doctoral Degrees fulfill the highest accountability standards.

The stringent standards of online Doctoral Degree coursework, the difficulty level of examinations, and the excellence of research work are of the same caliber as an on-campus course.

Just as the traditional doctoral courses, the online programs require a master’s degree in a related field or a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field, over and above the following standards:

A GPA of 3.0 or better

Impeccably referenced letters of recommendation

Persuasive and purposeful personal statements

Competitive GRE/other exam scores

Some universities may insist on a certain amount of field experience or some years of working experience.

US schools are permitting students to bypass the master’s degree to earn a doctoral degree directly, which is a very welcome opportunity.

For candidates aiming to kickstart a career in academia, locating a PhD program that entertains students with only bachelor’s degrees would be possible. The rigor of coursework is so elevated that many students are awarded a master’s degree on the way to earning a doctorate.

If students earn their master’s degree first, they would have explored their niche topics threadbare and become better acclimatized to the performance expectations and standards of the university.

Students with a master’s degree can also customize their subjects and research work in the university, adding maximum value. It’s always advisable to ensure the new university accepts your master’s credits earned in the first institution.

How do we choose the perfect, most affordable phd programs online?

The choice of the program hinges mainly on the career you wish to pursue. A doctor, pharmacist, occupational therapist, or tenured professor must earn a doctoral degree. On the other hand, we have a slew of high-paying, high-level jobs across economic sectors that do not require a doctoral degree.

Executive management posts, education administrators, healthcare administration, and mental health professionals are positions where a doctorate isn’t necessary.

Generally, the doctoral degree is valuable for candidates desiring to enter teaching and research fields instead of non-doctoral degree options that cover workplace jobs in institutions and businesses.

For example, if you consider the job of a Speech-Language Pathologist who treats communication and speech disorders, the candidate with a master’s degree can earn at least $58,000 annually. The SLP with a doctorate is better placed to grab academic and research positions commanding higher salaries.

The average total expense for an online graduate degree, master’s or doctoral degree, is $12,200 at public schools to $27,800 at nonprofit private schools, according to data released by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Notwithstanding the statistical data, the ground reality pegs affordable online doctorate degrees from $15,441 in public schools to $13,188 at private universities.

A silver lining is that many students are not compelled to pay the total cost of their degrees but enjoy either fully funded programs or some form of partial financial assistance in completing the degree.

The duration of a doctoral program depends on the credit hours involved, and these average around 36 to 126 hours of coursework. It follows that the average time taken to complete an online or on-campus degree works out to be three to eight years.

The overall course duration may be further reduced if credits for related coursework are transferred from previous universities.

The duration of the dissertation or capstone project is another factor lengthening the period of the doctoral degree. Some students may experience repeated submissions of their dissertations to secure necessary approval.

In the later stages of the doctoral degree, factors such as workplace commitments for professionals and family obligations could weigh in to delay the graduate degree.

Research-oriented doctoral graduates might hit the brick wall of many degree holders chasing too few jobs in academia and the institutional framework. Only exceptional talent breaks the glass ceiling of top institutional/ Academic positions. On the other hand, the demand for doctorate holders in the applied fields is stronger, especially in applied sciences and technology.

Before investing your time, energy, and resources in a doctorate of your liking, review the professional degrees appearing on the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) current listing of fastest-growing occupations. Physical therapists, teachers in the healthcare sector, and lawyers are currently in better demand.

The high-level, highest-paying jobs in governments, companies, and nonprofits with smooth career progression are usually the domain of the doctorate holders.

Indeed, the doctorate holder is at the pinnacle of prowess having notched up an impressive achievement. Luckily, the revolution in online education has opened plenty of opportunities to advance education and career goals if you display the right attitude and determination.

Traditional courses demand full-time participation and are more expensive. In comparison, the online doctoral degree presents convenient options through distance learning; they cost much less than their on-campus counterparts. Besides, the online doctorate is the most feasible way to plan your career goals in coverage, curriculum, and affordability.

The institutions we have listed above are at the top of their league. They enjoy their hard-won reputation as harbingers of better education, offering some of the cheapest online doctoral programs.

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

Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024

Are you interested in a doctorate degree, but are concerned about the high cost of college? We rank the most affordable online economics PhD degree programs.

Key Takeaways

The most affordable online doctoral programs in economics range between $300 and $1,500.
The average tuition fee per year for an online economics PhD is $19,749.
Out-of-state students pay more than in-state students unless the school provides a flat tuition fee.

It takes bravery to seek an online doctorate, but it can ultimately be beneficial. It can, however, be expensive to obtain. The U.S. News & World Report claims that the college expenses increase substantially each year.

A PhD student needs strong budgeting skills after factoring in the price of books, living expenditures, transportation costs, the cost of the dissertation, and research time. To cut down on debt after graduation, these expenses in online doctorate programs in economics should be taken seriously.

Featured Programs

Making an online phd in economics as affordable as possible.

There are a number of ways to ensure that online doctorate programs in economics are as affordable as possible.

In-state Tuition

The cost of online doctoral programs in economics vary based on several factors. Most colleges and universities charge more for out-of-state students. However, there are some schools that offer flat-rate tuition, which means that in-state and out-of-state students pay the same per credit cost.

Other Expenses

Earning an online doctorate in economics degree as opposed to a traditional on-campus doctorate degree makes it possible to save money on expenses like housing, transportation, and certain campus fees.

Continue Working

Online doctoral programs often make it possible to continue working in your field, which means you can complete your degree program while still earning a living. This can ultimately reduce your dependence on student loan debt.

Earning a PhD in economics through online doctoral programs is a great option for busy professionals who want to continue their education while juggling work and family life.

Financial Aid, Scholarships, Grants, and Loans

If affordability is a particular concern, and it is making you reluctant to pursue an online PhD in economics, you may be able to take advantage of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website. It is especially important that you choose online doctoral programs that are accredited in order to qualify.

Assistantships

Many schools offering an online PhD doctoral degree in economics also have assistantship opportunities for their graduate students. Assistantships may give teaching opportunities in exchange for tuition waivers and a stipend. Each school is different, so check into the online economics doctorate degree program you are interested in.

Bottom Line: An affordable online PhD in economics doctoral degree is possible when you factor in things like in-state tuition, financial aid, grants, and assistantships.

Scarcity of Online Economics Doctorates

There are cost savings with some online PhD programs in economics. However, some students may choose to attend traditional degree programs due to the scarcity of online doctorate programs in economics.

To help you research doctorate programs in economics that fit your needs, we rounded up the most affordable on-campus and online PhD programs to choose from.

If an affordable, in-demand PhD is exactly what you are looking for, check out our other Affordable Degree Rankings .

Happy businessman working in an office building

On-campus Doctorate Degree Programs vs Online PhD Programs

On-campus and online programs have their own merits. Online doctorate degree programs generally costs less than traditional brick-and-mortar programs. Prospective students online won’t have to pay additional expenses for transportation, housing for students, labs, or study materials.

Additionally, online doctorate degree programs are typically more flexible because they allow online doctorate students to complete the program at their own pace. On-campus students must physically be present for their classes at certain times and locations on the university campus.

The advantages, however, of attending an on-campus doctorate degree program are physical engagement and funding available. On-campus economic PhD programs allow students to engage physically with peers and professors, aiding learning and motivation. On the other hand, online students must use virtual platforms to get in touch with professors at predetermined times.

Furthermore, it may be more difficult for online students to secure fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships than it is for on-campus doctorate degree students.

So, an on-campus program may be more cost-effective than online doctorate programs.

Cost of an Online PhD in Economics Doctoral Degree

A PhD in economics costs $19,749 on average each year , according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This is the typical graduate tuition charged between 2020 and 2021 at public and private institutions.

The cost of education varies by school, and because private colleges rely more heavily on tuition fees for revenue, their prices are frequently higher than those of public universities.

But the financing that private institutions receive from private benefactors is the main perk of attending one. Private institutions frequently have larger budgets for research and expansion than public universities.

The cost of an online PhD in economics doctoral degree is also significantly influenced by in-state and out-of-state residency. Residents of a state pay in-state tuition to attend state-run institutions. The out-of-state tuition rate is what a student from another state must pay to attend the same school.

Luckily some doctorate degree programs have flat-rate tuition, which means that an out-of-state-student will pay the same tuition as an in-state student.

Many online doctorate programs allow out-of-state students to pay in-state tuition. Traditional brick-and-mortar schools are less likely to offer flat-rate tuition.

Economics doctoral programs can cost anywhere from $300 and $2,500 per credit. But there are many affordable online doctorate programs that cost between $300 and $1,500 per credit.

Woman with glasses thinking about economics

15 Most Affordable Online Economics Doctorates

Liberty university.

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Tuition + fees

Student body

Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Religious Studies
Criminal Justice
Political Science
Social Work
Communications

Most Influential Alumni

Ravi Zacharias
Susan Wise Bauer
Michael R. Licona
Robert H. Smith
Michael Tait
Jerry Falwell Jr.

Liberty University is a pioneer in online education and offers hundreds of affordable online degree programs from bachelor to graduate levels with Christian-based education. It’s one of the top online schools in the United States.

Liberty’s PhD in Public Policy - Economics costs $595 per credit hour. On the other hand, military students pay $300 per credit hour. This Economics PhD online program trains students to influence economic policy in law, media, politics, education, and international relations at a very low cost and conduct original research.

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3 years
Format: Online

What we love about Liberty University

The Christian-based curriculum.

Liberty University is great for students who:

Want to develop a stronger bond with Christ while developing research skills and enricing knowledge for career advancement.

Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who:

Have poor time management skills and are unable to study independently.

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

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#23 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology
#24 Best Online Master’s in Education

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of North Carolina at Greensboro

University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Norman B. Anderson
Justin Tornow
Kelly Cherry
Glenn D. Walters
John Kenneth Muir
Claudia Emerson
Robert Morgan
Bruce Caldwell
Mary Ellen Snodgrass
Cleveland Sellers
Keith Lee Morris

The University of North Carolina Greensboro is one of the country’s leaders in online education. UNC rigorously educates and trains students to become leaders, creators, and explorers in North Carolina and around the globe.

UNC Greensboro offers one of the most affordable online doctorate degrees. The PhD in Business Administration costs only $336 per credit hour for in-state students and $1,098 for out-of-state students. This online doctor of business administration program allows students to enroll in doctorate-level courses in Econometric Analysis. Students will also focus on online doctorate courses directly related to economics, such as emerging economics and organizational economics.

Required Credits: 54
Completion time: 5 years

What we love about the University of North Carolina Greensboro

UNC Greensboro is really good at helping students know what they want to do and helping them achieve it.

The University of North Carolina Greensboro is great for students who:

Want to have a liberal arts foundation.

The University of North Carolina Greensboro might not be the best fit for students who:

Only attend college to party and are not dedicated to their studies.

Atlantic International University

Atlantic International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Anthropology

Atlantic International University is an online learning institution based in the United States. The university provides a variety of majors at the associates, bachelor, master, and doctorate levels.

AIU’s PhD in Economics is one of the rarest and most affordable online doctorate programs. Prospective students of this economics online degree can study and do research in a number of important computer science fields, building a solid foundation in both theory and practice.

Required Credits: 48

What we love about Atlantic International University

The affordable and accessible degree programs.

Atlantic International University is great for students who:

Want to transfer life experience to reduce required credit hours.

Atlantic International University might not be the best fit for students who:

Want to enroll in a US-accredited university.

University of Arizona

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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Arizona

University of Arizona’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Earth Sciences
Geraldo Rivera
Clifford Stoll
Temple Grandin
Garry Shandling
Brian Schmidt
Henry Eyring
Michael McClure
Barbara Kingsolver
George H. Smith
Allen Buchanan
Frank Press

The University of Arizona is among the largest land-grant institutions in the country. UofA offers affordable learning to help non-traditional students achieve their professional and academic goals without breaking the bank. The university also among the nation’s most diverse institutions.

UofA’s traditional PhD in Economics program has in-state and out-of-state per semester tuition fees of $14,000 and $34,000. This economics PhD program is among the most flexible degree programs, allowing students to tailor their learning based on their career goals. Specialization courses include experimental economics, health economics, and industrial organization.

Required Credits: 84
Format: On-campus

What we love about The University of Arizona

The wide range of programs and school activities that fosters collaboration and success.

The University of Arizona is great for students who:

Thrive in large class sizes and independent study.

The University of Arizona might not be the best fit for students who:

Want to study in a more centralized learning environment.

University at Buffalo

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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University at Buffalo

University at Buffalo’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Computer Science
Mathematics
Engineering
Wilfrid Sellars
Richard Hofstadter
Terry Gross
Leslie White
Warren Bennis
William Lawvere
C. L. Max Nikias
Robert Hass
Silvia Federici
Robert J. Sampson

The University at Buffalo is a multi-campus institution, with each campus focusing on research and development. Through its 13 schools and colleges, UB offers over 300 degree programs. On top of a high caliber of education, UB also offers affordable tuition rates.

UB’s north campus offers an affordable traditional PhD in Economics degree program, with a per credit hour cost of $471.00 . At a very low cost, students will have the opportunity to fully develop their skills in using quantitative methods and the three main branches of economics to enrich lives globally.

Required Credits: 72
Completion time: 4-8 years

What we love about the University at Buffalo

The vibrant campus life, which includes endless opportunities to network and have fun.

The University at Buffalo is great for students who:

Can complete coursework without individualized attention from advisors.

The University at Buffalo might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer to learn in small class sizes.

Two business professionals discussing economics

American University

#3 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
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#3 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
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#15 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
#4 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree

American University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Bruce Schneier
Oliver North
Stephen A. Kent
Queen Rania of Jordan
Corey Lewandowski
Juan E. Méndez
Robert Kagan
Kathy Reichs
James Alan Fox
Clark Howard

American University is one of the top choices for international students due to its diversity and welcoming atmosphere. AU encourages its students to act toward their passions to become leaders in their fields.

AU offers a PhD in Economics with affordable costs. This doctorate degree helps students develop proficiency in statistical techniques, practical field knowledge, and economic theory. Additionally, it helps students develop the necessary expertise to write dissertations that empirically address economic concerns.

Required Credits: 45
Completion time: 2.5

What we love about American University

The diversity and dedicated faculty.

American University is great for students who:

Are interested in politics and international relations.

American University might not be the best fit for students who:

Are not politically-inclined.

University of Minnesota

#1 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024
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#7 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Minnesota

University of Minnesota’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Arthur Compton
Deke Slayton
Ernest Lawrence
Norman Borlaug
Thomas Friedman
Melvin Calvin
John L. Holland
Christiaan Barnard
Edward B. Lewis
Roy Wilkins
Alexander Wendt
Lars Peter Hansen

The Twin Cities campus is UM’s flagship and the only land-grant institution in the state. UM is also one of the country’s most esteemed public research universities.

UM’s PhD in Economics is an affordable doctoral program that costs in-state and out-of-state per credit hour costs of $1,539.00 and $2,381.50. While these costs may seem pricey upfront, all doctoral students will be entitled to stipends. Students will write a thesis that adds significantly to the field of economic literature.

Required Credits: 66
Completion time: 45 months

What we love about the University of Minnesota

The ground-breaking and life-altering inventions, including the “black box” flight recorder, the first successful open-heart surgery, GORE-TEX®, and the cardiac pacemaker.

The University of Minnesota is great for students who:

Are used to living in huge cities and thrive in a sizable student population.

The University of Minnesota might not be the best fit for students who:

Are easily intimidated.

University of Iowa

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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Iowa

University of Iowa’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Albert Bandura
Tennessee Williams
Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak
Oswald Veblen
Jayaprakash Narayan
Leon Festinger
Henry Jenkins
Everett Rogers
Julian Rotter
John Robert Anderson
Wallace Stegner

The University of Iowa is a major research institution with 11 colleges. UI is the country’s most cutting-edge and comprehensive university-owned teaching hospital and created the world’s most technologically sophisticated driving simulator.

UI’s PhD in Economics has in-state and out-of-state base tuition and fees of $12,013 and $31,511. Students interested in this degree program should note that this is one of the most selective doctorates. This program places a strong emphasis on high-quality training.

Completion time: 5-6 years

What we love about the University of Iowa

The inclusivity. It was the first public university to enroll students of all races and to admit women and men on an equal basis.

The University of Iowa is best for students who:

Want to study in a large campus and live in a small town.

The University of Iowa might not be the best fit for students who:

Are very conservative and close-minded.

University of Oregon

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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Oregon

University of Oregon’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Douglas Hofstadter
Douglas Engelbart
David Ray Griffin
John Markoff
Walter Houser Brattain
Randy Shilts
Lee Bollinger
John Alan Robinson
Daniel Levitin

The University of Oregon is a leader in innovation and change and has always kept an eye on the future. UO is one of the very few research universities in the country that is a member of the Association of American Universities.

UO’s PhD in Economics has a per credit hour cost of $582. The program maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio designed to foster the development of excellent research and teaching skills. Students study several economic doctoral fields, including but not limited to Industrial Organization, Economic Growth and Development, Labor Economics, and Public Economics.

Required Credits: 81
Completion time: 5-7 years

What we love about the University of Oregon

The small and intimate class sizes with dedicated faculty.

The University of Oregon is great for students who:

Are devoted to their studies, highly open-minded, and driven to succeed.

The University of Oregon might not be the best fit for students who:

Are used to city life.

University of Cincinnati

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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Cincinnati

University of Cincinnati’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Thomas Szasz
Michael Graves
Paul Tibbets
Salmon P. Chase
David E. Nichols
George Clooney
Oscar Robertson
George L. Engel

The University of Cincinnati is an award-winning and dynamic campus offering comprehensive and cutting-edge education. UC has hundreds of academic programs, many of which are nationally ranked and provide possibilities for practical learning.

UC’s PhD in Economics has a per credit hour cost of $746. The best thing about this program is that it requires students to work as part-time research assistants during their first two years of study. Additionally, this PhD expects students to do their own research early on in the program.

Required Credits: 40

What we love about the University of Cincinnati

The reputation of being the #1 university for co-ops.

The University of Cincinnati is great for students who:

Are willing to take risks and devote their time to studying.

The University of Cincinnati might not be the best fit for students who:

Don’t like living in a big city,

Young economics professional working in an office

University of South Florida

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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of South Florida

University of South Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Joe Barresi
Shlomo Sawilowsky
Tony La Russa
Saraju Mohanty
Joanna Fowler
J. Budziszewski
Eric M. Bost
Susan Cutter
David A. Wolfe
Randy Borum

The University of South Florida is a preeminent research university committed to helping students succeed academically, personally, and professionally. USF is a top producer for Fulbright Scholars and a top patent producer.

USF offers an affordable traditional PhD in Economics , which only costs $467.34 in-state and $913.08 out-of-state per credit hour . This PhD program is best for students who want to gain focus on practical fields of microeconomics. Students must complete required field and classroom coursework and electives to graduate.

What we love about the University of South Florida

The unlimited chances for students to work, considerable financial aid, and the lowest tuition costs.

The University of South Florida is great for students who:

Thrive in diversity and are very driven.

The University of South Florida might not be the best fit for students who:

Are highly conservative and haven’t been exposed to a diverse environment in terms of culture and religion.

University of New Hampshire

#2 Best Research Universities in New Hampshire 2024
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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of New Hampshire

University of New Hampshire’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Ronald Noble
Jason Brennan
Loren Coleman
Jeffrey Snover
Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
James J. Martin
Carlton Fisk
Nathan Brody

The University of New Hampshire is one of the top public colleges in the country that currently concentrates on research. As a premier public research institution in the state, UNH provides students with award-winning instructors and state-of-the-art facilities.

UNH’s PhD in Economics has in-state and out-of-state per credit hour fees of $785.00 and $1,370.00. Students focus on exploring detailed models and in-depth analyses of businesses and governments. Graduates are grounded in economic theories and models and will have the necessary research abilities and skills to teach in postsecondary institutions.

Completion time: 5-4 years

What we love about the University of New Hampshire

The safe and empowering campus.

The University of New Hampshire is great for students who:

Are yet to find their purpose in life, thanks to the school’s vast options for majors.

The University of New Hampshire might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer small classes and are unprepared for academic competition.

University of Wyoming

#1 Best Online Colleges in Wyoming 2024
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#4 Best Online MBA Programs in Montana
#13 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
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Career Outlook for Economics degree at University of Wyoming

University of Wyoming’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

W. Edwards Deming
John A. List
Gerry Spence
Clive Spash
Vincent Ostrom
James E. McDonald
Marlan Scully
Matthew Shepard
John Paul Scott
M. Margaret McKeown

The University of Wyoming offers over 80 undergraduate and 90 graduate programs through seven colleges. UW also has one of the longest research histories, focusing on energy and land management.

UW’s PhD in Economics is among the country’s cheapest doctorate programs. Students are expected to enroll in 9 credits per semester , which is $3,591 for in-state students and $9,162 for out-of-state students. But because this is a fully funded doctorate, doctoral students pay less. Students decide which area of interest they’ll perform their original research.

Required Credits: 42

What we love about the University of Wyoming

The supporting community.

The University of Wyoming is great for students who:

Want a strong background in agriculture and engineering.

The University of Wyoming might not be the best fit for students who:

Prefer a big campus community and want a more active social and Greek life.

Career Outlook for Students with Economics Degree

Degree level: doctorate.

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Cost of Degree*: $14,669
Avg. Expenses*: $18,512
Avg. Starting Salary*: $79,162
Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 5 years
Job Growth: 2.32%
Number of Jobs: 2,376,200
* denotes ‘annually’
** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Average career salaries, promising job markets, top industries.

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COMMENTS

Top 20 Cheapest Online PhD Programs in 2024
Considering that 100 credits are required to graduate, this Colorado Technical University program is one of the most inexpensive Ph.D. programs online. 6. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Indiana State University. Annual tuition: $8,103 for in-state students, $10,527 for out-of-state students.
2024 Most Affordable Online Doctoral Degrees
At Liberty University, ranked #2 on our list of most affordable schools, the per-credit fee for online doctoral programs is $300. A Doctor of Public Administration requires 48 credits and totals $14,400 in tuition fees, while a Ph.D. in History requires 72 credits and totals $18,000 in tuition fees.
20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate Programs in 2024
12. The University of Arizona Globa Campus. The University of Arizona Global Campus, formerly Ashford University, offers more than 50 programs, all 100% online, including a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and a PhD in four distinct fields of study.
Most Affordable Online Ph.D. Programs in 2024
Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies. $4,194 - $15,480 annual tuition. 60 credits, 100% online. With in-state tuition of just $233 per credit hour, NC A&T tops the list as the #1 most affordable online PhD program. This flexible 60 credit program has no residency requirements and focuses on leadership theory and research methods.
Best Affordable Online Ph.D. Programs And Doctorates
Out-of-State | $1005. Credits to Graduate: 64-69. Texas A&M University College Station offers online Ph.D. programs in educational administration, interdisciplinary engineering, and plant breeding. Additionally, it offers online Ed.D. programs in educational administration, and curriculum and instruction.
The Cheapest Online PhD Programs By Subject in 2021
The Cheapest Online PhD Programs By Subject in 2021. View the most affordable online PhD programs in 2021 —many for less than $10,000—so you can easily compare education options for your next step.
Find Online Ph.D. Programs
A doctor of philosophy, or Ph.D., is a specific type of doctorate focused primarily on academic research. Ph.D. students are expected to conduct original research and add to their field's discourse. Most Ph.D. programs also require you to write and defend a dissertation. All Ph.D.s are doctorates, but not all doctorates are Ph.D.s.
Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Daytona Beach , FL. #14 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2024 #8 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2024 #11 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida. Other Rankings. Tuition + fees.
Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs
In general, you can expect to pay around $13,000-$30,000 per year in tuition and fees for your online Ph.D. Several factors affect how much your Ph.D. program will cost, including: Whether the program is fully funded. Whether your school is public or private. Whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student.
The 20 Most Affordable Online Doctoral Programs
Colorado University Online makes the list as one of the most affordable schools at which to study for a doctoral degree. Depending on the degree one is seeking, the price for studying online at CU Online can be under $400 a credit. CU Online offers 28 online degrees including 3 doctorate degrees in the field of medicine.
Most Affordable Online PhD Programs
RNs can complete the degree in 2.5 years. Financial aid opportunities and SUNY's affordable tuition make this degree among the most affordable online doctoral programs for RNs in New York State. Admission requires no GRE scores. Embrace the convenience of online learning and shape your own path to success.
Online Doctorate Degrees from Top Universities
The edX platform has a variety of doctorate programs from some of the best schools in the country — and they're all online. With an online doctoral program, you can choose when and how you study, from anywhere in the world. Many of our programs offer a choice of two learning tracks — take your time with the standard track, or speed ...
The 15 Most Affordable Online Doctorate Programs
The University of Kansas currently offers three of the most affordable online doctor of medicine degree programs: a Clinical Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology, a Doctor of Occupational Therapy, a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Their DNP program has separate curriculums for those who have completed a Bachelor ...
Most Affordable and Cheapest Online PhD Programs
AU has an online student graduate 3000-strong community enrolling for seven of the cheapest phd online programs in three highly evolving fields - education, nursing, and technology. Prized programs are: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) The online EdD in Leadership and Learning targeting mid-career professionals.
Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
USM's affordable online doctorate of Higher Education EdD, costing only $519.12 per credit hour, is one of the cheapest doctorates in the United States. Instead of requiring a dissertation, this program offers a capstone project, allowing students to work on problems that exist in the real world.
Best Online Ph.D. In Higher Education Programs Of 2024
Tuition for the higher education doctoral programs on our list averages $905 per credit. With the average program requiring 64 credits, the average total cost of an online Ph.D. in higher ...
2024 Most Affordable Online Doctorates in Education
The average annual tuition for the online Ed.D. programs on our list is $6,912, with the cheapest online Ed.D. programs coming in under $5,000 a year. This is a significant savings when compared to the average cost of an Ed.D., which is approximately $37,300 annually.
Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
The University of Missouri, or Mizzou, is known for its ground-breaking research and top-notch traditional and online education. Striving for greatness through perseverance and cooperation, Mizzou offers several affordable online doctorate degree programs. Mizzou's affordable online PhD Information Science & Learning Technologies allow students to pursue interdisciplinary routes.
144 Affordable PhD programmes in United States
The Physics PhD program at Tufts University offers a full range of graduate level courses and research opportunities in astronomy, biophysics, condensed matter physics, cosmology, elementary particle physics, and quantum information. Ph.D. / Full-time / On Campus. Tufts University Medford, Massachusetts, United States. Ranked top 2%.
Where To Earn An Online Ph.D. In Marketing In 2024
A Ph.D. from National University costs $26,520, while the same degree from Kennesaw State University costs a minimum of $18,384. However, the tuition rates for Ph.D. programs vary significantly ...
25 Most Affordable Ph.D. in Psychology (Psy.D.) Grad School Programs
Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Fielding's affordable 179-semester credits online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology can be earned in five to six years. Depending on the student's preference, they can either complete the program in a synchronous or asynchronous format. Tuition Fee. Concentrations. $9,890 per term.
15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
Capella University. Minneapolis , MN. #10 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #2 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity. Other Rankings.
Best Online Ed.D. Programs Of 2024
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that public graduate schools charge in-state students an average of $11,554 in tuition and fees, while out-of-state learners pay an average of ...
Online Nursing Doctorate Program Guide
Compared to the more clinical DNP, a nursing Ph.D. focuses more on research, education, and policy. In this guide, we examine online nursing Ph.D. programs in more detail, delving into common career options for graduates and the best individual programs. The typical nursing Ph.D. program lasts 4-6 years. Online learners may save time and money ...
Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
Liberty University is a pioneer in online education and offers hundreds of affordable online degree programs from bachelor to graduate levels with Christian-based education. It's one of the top online schools in the United States. Liberty's PhD in Public Policy - Economics costs $595 per credit hour. On the other hand, military students pay $300 per credit hour.

Top 20 Cheapest Online PhD Programs in 2024

The 20 Cheapest Online Ph.D. Programs

1. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

2. Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc)

3. Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Agriculture Education/Higher Education Administration

4. Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

5. Ph.D. in Computer Science

6. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

7. Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction

8. Doctor of Public Health / Global Health Leadership

9. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

10. EdD in Higher Education Administration

11. Doctor of Philosophy in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

12. Ph.D. of Philosophy in Nursing

13. Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

14. Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy

15. Doctor of Business Administration

16. Juris Doctor

17. Doctor of Education (EdD)

18. Online Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

19. E dD in Leadership

20. Doctor of Nursing Practice (Educational Leadership)

What’s the Average Cost of Online Doctoral Degrees?

Make Cheap Online Ph.D. Programs Even More Affordable

Top Doctoral Degree Fields

Where Are Ph.D. Holders Most Desired?

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I Get a Ph.D. for Free?

Key Takeaways

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Most Affordable Online Ph.D. Programs in 2024

The Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in 2024

North Carolina A&T State University – Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

Columbia Southern University – Doctor of Business Administration

William Howard Taft University – Doctor of Education

American College of Education – EdD in Leadership

Indiana State University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

Texas Tech University – EdD in Agricultural Education

Post University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

Liberty University – Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

University of Wyoming – EdD in Higher Education Administration

Missouri State University – Doctor of Nursing Practice

Abraham Lincoln University – Juris Doctor

Arizona State University – Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

University of Massachusetts – Doctor of Nursing Practice

New Mexico State University – PhD in Curriculum & Instruction

Pacific College of Health and Science – Doctor of Acupuncture

Colorado Technical University – PhD in Computer Science

Indiana University – Doctor of Public Health

Hampton University – PhD in Nursing

Auburn University – PhD in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

Liberty University – PhD in Public Policy

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